• Saskatchewan Métis Politics
• New Movement in GEA

• Memories of Whitford

• Celebrating Métis Heritage

• Health and Dental Plans

• Centenarians Special Recipients at 10th Anniversary Esquao Awards
• Aboriginal Veterans Dedicate Plaque at Alberta's Legislative Grounds
• First All Aboriginal Lobby Group in Canada Led by Hon. Dr. Thelma Chalifoux
• Métis Nation of Alberta Region 5 Report
• New Fiddle CDs Released
• MNA Gunn Local Council #55 Developing Métis Park 
• Letter to Editor Re: Métis Officer Murdered
• Not Only One But Two Métis RCMP Died at Mayerthorpe
• Jigging Instructor Needed
• Camping
• Métis Youth Wins Honor of Showcasing at Klondike Days

• Michif Cultural & Resource Institute to Establish an Aboriginal Crafts Industry

• Métis Nation of Ontario Election Results Announced
• Retracing The Route Of  The Historic Métis Voyageurs

• Cinnamon Coffee Bread

• Youth Day Pass: $50.00     Ages (12-18 years old)
• Time:   9:00 am to 6:00 pm (2 health breaks)
•  Schedule:  Films/Workshops/Guest Speakers
• Venue:   Stanley A. Milner Library/Citadel Theatre
  (7 Sir Winston Churchill Square)

‘Guest Celebrities will be in Attendance’

REGISTER NOW!  (Limited to 200 delegates)

Contact: Doreen @ (780)378-9609 or Email:  info@dreamspeakers.org.


Métis Centennial Voyage!
The Métis Centennial Voyage is scheduled to begin at the Legislature on Wednesday August 24, 2005. The festivities will include a two day traditional Métis voyage on the North Saskatchewan River and culminate in celebrations at Métis Crossing on August 26, 2005.

Métis Crossing is an important part of the Métis heritage in Alberta for all Albertan's to share. The Métis Crossing Interpretive Centre upon its grand opening in 2008 promises to offer visitors an interactive and educational experience in Métis culture and customs. We believe that this site will become a gathering place for people of all walks of life to celebrate, learn, and enjoy the story of the Métis.  

We look forward to your participation in the province's greatest celebration of the Métis people, sharing our rich and diverse history which has helped to shape the province of Alberta.

For inquires around this event please contact Kimberly Mueller at 1-800-252-7553 or e-mail kmueller@metis.org.

Anzac Métis Festival
The 2nd Annual Anzac Métis Festival sponsored by Willow Lake Metis Local #780 is on July 9, 2005.  The festival includes a vocal, fiddling, jigging and voyageur game competitions. Registrations begin at 9:00 a.m.

A hamburgers and bannock concession will run throughout the day with a BBQ supper at 6:00 p.m. catered by Travers Catering. The dance will begin at 8:00 p.m. with live music from the Midnight Eagle Band. Everyone from near or far is invited to attend and listen to some real old time music.

An Aboriginal Celebration at Fort Edmonton Park
Sun and Moon Visionaries Aboriginal Artisan Society is pleased to announce a new and exciting partnership with the City of Edmonton, Special Events and Recreation Facility Services Branch. Immediate plans are in place for two special events. The Sacred Self Aboriginal Artist Series co-hosted by Sun and Moon Visionaries (SMV) and the City Art Centre will feature their first guest artist Dr. Dale Auger, September 16th to 18th, 2005 and in honour of National Aboriginal Day, Sun and Moon Visionaries and Fort Edmonton Park will be hosting “An Aboriginal Celebration”  in June, 2005.  

Their first partnership event “An Aboriginal Celebration” will be on June 26th, 2005 at Fort Edmonton Park. The activity filled day will begin with the Grand Entry and Official Opening of the SMV Grassland Mihkiwahp Tipi Encampment, an interpretive and interactive village featuring Nathaniel Arcand as the Storyteller and Mark McKinnik and the SMV Traditional Dancers enacting the Legends of Wesakechak.

 “An Aboriginal Celebration” at Fort Edmonton Park highlights a 1885 Métis Camp with Métis Musicians Gary Lee and Ray St. Germaine and the Métis Dance Champions, the Edmonton Métis Cultural Dancers. Visitors will also find the 1905 Street to be filled with activities and games for all ages, including a Crafter’s Arbor, Storytelling by Amanda Woodward and the SMV Dramatic Dance Troupe on stage at the Bandstand.  This day of celebration will conclude with an Honouring of Traditions in the Fort Courtyard. 

Sun and Moon Visionaries Aboriginal Artisan Society encourages everyone to come out and celebrate in honour of National Aboriginal Day!

Thank you to the City of Edmonton and Fort Edmonton Park Foundation for the 200 free Youth and Seniors (June 26th, 2005) admissions. Please call Sun and Moon Visionaries at (780) 433-3097 if you are interested in booking a free admission for the “Aboriginal Celebration at Fort Edmonton Park”.

Sun and Moon Visionaries Aboriginal Artisan Society, with the support of Canadian Heritage UMAYC, Alberta Community Initiatives and Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, has been delivering very successful community based arts and culture programs to Aboriginal Youth since 1999. Registration for all programs is on-going, urban Aboriginal Youth between the ages of 15 to 24 are invited to register and join in the weekly training programs and special events. 

SMV 2005 Evening and Weekend Programs:
* Cultural Fine Art Program: Wednesday, 6:00 - 8:00 pm.
* Cultural Regalia & Traditional Dance: Tuesday/Thursday, 6:00-8:00 pm,  Saturday, 12:00-4:00 pm
* Better Choice Better Life DJ and Breakdance Program: Sunday, 1:30 – 4:30 pm

2005 Special Events:  
* Aboriginal ~ Alberta Connection Festival at Churchill Square:  May 23rd, 2005
* An Aboriginal Celebration at Fort Edmonton Park :  June 26th, 2005
* Sacred Self Guest Artist Series featuring Dr. Dale Auger:  September 16th to 18th, 2005
* SMV Métis Week Annual Arts & Craft Show:  November 17th/18th, 2005
* SMV Annual Open House and Christmas Party:  December 17th, 2005

Let's Celebrate National Aboriginal Day
June 21 is National Aboriginal Day, a day for all Canadians to celebrate the cultures and contributions to Canada of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.

Even before the Governor General of Canada proclaimed June 21 as National Aboriginal Day, there was a long-standing desire to set aside a national day to recognize and celebrate Aboriginal peoples and cultures.

Here is a brief history of the origins of National Aboriginal Day:

1982: National Indian Brotherhood (now the Assembly of First Nations) calls for the creation of June 21 as National Aboriginal Solidarity Day;

1990: Quebec legislature recognizes June 21 as a day to celebrate Aboriginal culture;

1995: Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples recommends the designation of a National First Peoples Day;
The Sacred Assembly, a national conference of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people chaired by Elijah Harper, calls for a national holiday to celebrate the contributions of Aboriginal peoples;

1996: June 13 — Former Governor General Roméo LeBlanc, declares June 21 as National Aboriginal Day after consultations with various Aboriginal groups;

June 21 — National Aboriginal Day is first celebrated with events from coast to coast to coast.

Today National Aboriginal Day is part of the annual nation-wide Celebrate Canada! festivities held from June 21 to July 1. They begin with National Aboriginal Day, are followed by St-Jean Baptiste Day, Canadian Multiculturalism Day and concludes with Canada Day.

June 21 was chosen because of the cultural significance of the summer solstice (first day of summer and longest day of the year) and because many Aboriginal groups mark this day as a time to celebrate their heritage. Setting aside a day for Aboriginal Peoples is part of the wider recognition of Aboriginal Peoples' important place within the fabric of Canada and their ongoing contributions as First Peoples. As Governor General Adrienne Clarkson said: "It is an opportunity for all of us to celebrate our respect and admiration for First Nations, for Inuit, for Métis — for the past, the present and the future."

National Aboriginal Day events are held in every region across the country. For a detailed list of activities, or to get involved in organizing festivities in your area, visit www.inac.gc.ca or contact an Aboriginal community or organization near you, or the local Indian and Northern Affairs Canada office. 

Source: http://www.ainc-inac.gc.ca/nad/index_e.html

National Aboriginal Day Schedule of Events

June 18, 2005
Slave Lake Native Friendships Center
Princess Pageant & Talent Show
For more information contact (780) 849-3039

June 19, 2005
Slave Lake Native Friendships Center
Centennial Toonie Breakfast
10 a.m. -1:00 p.m.
For more information contact (780) 849-3039

JUNE 19, 2005
National Aboriginal Day Celebration at the Provincial Museum of Alberta
Provicinal Museum, Edmonton, Alberta
10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Demostrations, activities, dancing and music
Regular admission rates apply
Contact 453-9100 or visit www.pma.edmonton.ab.ca

JUNE 20, 2005
1st Annual Canada-Wide Cleansing Ceremony
Ramada Hotel on Kingsway, Edmonton, Alberta
9:30 - 11:30 a.m.
Contact Caroline Thompson at 930-4038

JUNE 21, 2005
National Aboriginal Day Celebration
Lac La Biche, Alberta Recreation Grounds
11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Celebration Walk from the Almac Hotel to Recreation Grounds, Free Buffalo Burger Barbeque, Trade Show and Historical Displays, Entertainment by Local Talent, Metis Dancers, First Nations Dancers, Aboriginal Music, Mini Round Dance, Traditional Giveaway
Bring your own lawn chairs!

JUNE 21, 2005
Official Commemoration
Canada Place, Edmonton, Alberta
9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Contact Heather Poitras at 495-6728.

JUNE 21, 2005
Royal Eagles Annual BBQ
Park at 102 st and Jasper Ave, Edmonton, Alberta
11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Contact Syrena at 448-6708.

JUNE 21, 2005
National Aboriginal Day Family Picnic
Jaycee Park, High Prairie, Alberta
Family day activities and informative displays
Contact High Prairie Native Friendship Centre Society (780) 523-4511.

JUNE 22, 2005
Pancake Breakfast
Canadian Native Friendship Centre, 11205-101 st, Edmonton, Alberta
8:00 - 10:00 a.m.
Contact Dean at 479-1999.

JUNE 24, 2005
Smudging the Streets
Edmonton - West
7:00 - 10:00 a.m.
Contact Dean at 479-1999.

JUNE 24 - 26, 2005
Pow Wow
Hanger on Kingsway, Edmonton, Alberta
Contact Ryan at 473-0579.

JUNE 24 - 26, 2005
National Aboriginal Day Weekend Festival
Provincial Legislature Grounds, 10800-97 ave, Edmonton, Alberta
12:00 - 6:00 p.m. daily
Aboriginal Entertainment, Tipi Village, Metis Village, Inuit Village
Bring your own lawn chairs!
Contact Lise at 944-5544.

JUNE 26, 2005
Tipi Camp
Fort Edmonton Park, Edmonton, Alberta
10:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Contact Jaret at 433-3097.

Up Coming Events Schedule

JUNE 11, 2005
Native Graduation Banquet and Pow-wow hosted by The Native Centre of the University of Calgary
Olympic Volunteer Centre at the Red and White Club, McMahon Stadium 1833 Crowchild Trial NW, Calgary, Alberta
Contact Donna Meckling at 220-3091.

JUNE 18, 2005
History in the Hills
Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park, Alberta
10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Contact 403-526-0756.

JUNE 22 - 25, 2005
10th  Annual DREAMSPEAKERS International Film Festival
Contact Doreen at (780)378-9609 or email info@dreamspeakers.org.

JUNE 23, 2005
Dreamspeakers Festival Society hosts Youth Day
Encouraging students who are interested in the areas of film, filmmaking, acting and directing
Stanley A. Milner Library/Citadel Theatre (7 Sir Winston Churchill Square), Edmonton, Alberta
Youth Day Pass: $50.00     Ages (12-18 years old)
Time:   9:00 am to 6:00 pm (2 health breaks)
Schedule:  Films/Workshops/Guest Speakers
Contact Doreen at (780)378-9609 or email info@dreamspeakers.org.

JUNE 24, 2005
3rd Annual Douglas J. Chaisson Memorial Golf Tournament hosted by the Métis National Council of Women
Sand Piper Golf Course (5km west of St. Albert on Meadowview Drive), Alberta
Contact Pauline Vaugeois 780-459-0234.

JUNE 24, 2005
Métis Nation of Alberta Region 3 Third Annual Golf Tournament
Fundraiser for The Aboriginal Youth Mentoring Program and the Métis Nation Benevolent Fund
Lakeside Greens Golf Course (located west side of Chestermere Lake), Chestermere, Alberta
Registration:  6:30 am – 7:45 am, 8:00 am Shotgun Start
$200 per person (includes dinner)
$40 per dinner for non-golfers
Contact Marlene at 403-569-8800 or mlanz@metis.org

JULY 9, 2005
2nd Annual Anzac Métis Festival
Outdoor Games, Jigging, Fiddling and Talent Show
Anzac, Alberta
Contact Gladys at 780-334-2412.

JULY 7 - 10, 2005
Red River West
Victoria Fish & Game Club, 700 Holker Place, Malahat Drive, HWY #1, Vancouver Island, Bristish Columbia
Contact Bruce at 250-923-5455 or Ed at 250-753-7471.
Visit http://www.redriverwest.org.

JULY 21 - 24, 2005
Back to Batoche Days
Batoche, Saskatchewan

JULY 23 - 28, 2005
116th Annual Lac Ste Anne Pilgrimage 
For a schedule visit http://www.sacredpeoples.com/lac.html
For information or to help out as a volunteer contact 780 924 3231 or lsap@interbaun.com


JULY 29 - AUG 1, 2005
Hivernant Rendezvous Métis Festival
Big Valley, Alberta
Contact Richard at 403-876-2945 or apeetogusan7@hotmail.com.
Visit http://www.hivernant.com

AUGUST 1 - 6, 2005
4th Annual Provincial Métis  Youth Conference
Metis youth aged 15-18 interested in developing your career path through hands on career workshops, while learning about your culture and having fun in Alberta’s Rocky Mountains
Contact Amanda L’Hirondelle at the Métis  Nation of Alberta 1-800-252-7553 or 780-455-2200.

AUGUST 11 - 14, 2005
Kikino Silver Birch Rodeo and Celebration Days
Kikino, Alberta
Contact 780-877-623-9696.

AUGUST 12 - 14, 2005
Métis Nation of Alberta's 77th Annual General Meeting 
Peace River, Alberta
Contact Sylvia at 1-800-668-5319

AUGUST 24 - 26, 2005
Métis Centennial Voyage
Starting at the Legislature Grounds, Edmonton, Alberta and ending at Métis Crossing near Smokey Lake, Alberta
Contact Kimberly Mueller at 1-800-252-7553 or e-mail kmueller@metis.org.

OCTOBER 24 & 25, 2005
It’s All About Opportunities III
Coast Edmonton Plaza Hotel, 10155 - 105 Street, Edmonton, Alberta
Contact Shannon (Chris) Armitage, Aboriginal Business Service Network Coordinator at 780-422-1260  or 1-800-272-9675

OCTOBER 27, 2005
“Sharing Our Pride” an Aboriginal dance production hosted by Heavenly Skies Society 
Jubilee Auditorium, Edmonton, Alberta
Contact Bobby at heavenlyskiessociety@hotmail.com or 780.920.0832. 

NOVEMBER 25 - 27, 2005
Canadian Aboriginal Festival
Roger's Centre (SkyDome), Toronto, ON
Visit www.canab.com
Contact info@canab.com.

An unique opportunity exists for Aboriginal people to empower themselves, assist others, and develop to become healthy individuals in a world that is not so forgiving.

Two Aboriginally owned and operated companies have joined to provide programming through a new company called Muskwa Aboriginal Youth Wellness Association located in Cochrane, Alberta.  

Kate Lucas, a Metis woman whose family is originally from Northern Alberta and Saskatchewan, is currently completing her BA in Psychology and is a certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor and a Community Wellness Worker. Kate is a genuine business professional who always has Aboriginal people especially youth in her sights. 

Holly Fortier, a Cree woman from Ft. McKay First Nations, has worked in the human services field in Child Welfare and in youth and child care organizations for the past 30 years. Holly operates and facilitates Muskwa’s programs and services along with Kate.

Both women are very involved in the Aboriginal community and provide their programming through Muskwa to a variety of organizations including programming on reserves, friendship centers, community programs and organizations and schools.  Muskwa currently offers 12 programs to agencies, organizations and schools throughout the area. These women not only have a human services background they are artists in their own right. Kate has owned and operated a graphic design business and Holly has been heavily involved within the film and television industry. Together with their unique talents and education, they have the ability to provide a unique programming model through their partnership.

Well, you may be asking,  “What is so special about Muskwa Aboriginal Youth Wellness Association?” Muskwa’s current programs address issues of abuse, anger and substance abuse.  The programs are conducted through a non-threatening approach by incorporating experiential learning techniques and encouraging individual participation and perspectives.  Participants are taught new skills and are influenced to make changes in behavioral patterns and taking on a new positive approach to life situations.

In asking what this Association offers that others do not I asked, Dr. Gord Breen, Principle of Morley School what his thoughts on their programming were. Dr Breen states, “Their programs have filled a void that are commonly missed in school programming. The traditional school counselor does not have the training to educate or counsel in their area of specialization.”

While Dr. Breen has utilized their programming on a number of occasions and the effect of the programming have been seen through the youth taking part in the programming. He states that, “The youth taking part in the programming were empowered to make informed choices through the education, reflection and discussions provided”. He also informs us that,   "Their programming may turn around some individuals, and if not, may be part of the complex and unpredictable package of support that are a catalyst to personal change.”

Muskwa’s vision is to provide a means to find and gain knowledge, practical experience and encourage present and future generations to gain empowerment in wellness and health for the future. Although they may only be a drop in a bucket of services provided by Aboriginal people, they provide a perspective unique to Metis and First Nations individuals and can easily identify with organizations and individuals requiring this type of programming.

These two women are slowly one program at a time breaking the cycle of existing norms in Aboriginal people by influencing change, individuals and ensuring that these individuals are part of that change.  What is unique to this program is they offer a variety of programs that meet the needs of those that require their services and most importantly, they provide the stepping-stones to resiliency. For more information on their programs, they can be contacted at (403) 932-0987/266-0997.

Secondhand Smoke Bylaw and Policy, a FREE Aboriginal Facilitation Initiative for Urban Aboriginal Communities and Organizations
By now, many of us are aware that tobacco misuse is unhealthy, yet many Aboriginal people continue to smoke tobacco products and use spit tobacco. Although a complete nationwide end to our current smoking epidemic is not exactly around the corner, little by little, steps must be made in order to reduce the amount of tobacco misuse.  

Aboriginal organizations have been involved in several initiatives to reduce, control and inform people about the harms of tobacco use. The “Secondhand Smoke Bylaw and Policy – Aboriginal Facilitation Initiative is a project of the Nechi Training Research & Health Promotions Institute. The Métis Nation of Alberta is a project partner in this endeavor funded by Health Canada, which assists urban Aboriginal organizations and communities to implement their own in-house non-smoking policies.  

Most Aboriginal organizations in Alberta are already smoke free, but because almost all of the them do not have in house written smoke free policies they are not properly protected from municipal bylaw infractions or guaranteed their right to practice traditional tobacco use.

The Secondhand Smoke Bylaw and Policy project is specifically designed to meet the needs of urban Aboriginal based organizations. The Aboriginal organizations benefit from implementing their own written smoke free policies for their workplace in the following ways: they are protected from bylaw infractions, which means they are not subject to some of the heavy fines associated to not having a written smoke free policy, the right to practice traditional tobacco use in the workplace,* and providing a safe and smoke free environment for their staff and clientele.

Access to this project and the services it provides are at no charge to any urban Aboriginal organization, including Métis Settlements. The secondhand smoke project facilitator will come directly to the organization or community to assist them in creating their own culturally sensitive nonsmoking policy in accordance with the municipal smoke free bylaw, ensure that all the proper signs up and provide any other needed resources. Elders also provided to the organization for cultural consultation and guidance free of charge in order to create a culturally sensitive smoke free policy. The project can also provide honorariums for the organization’s own Elders to advise and approve the creation of the organization’s smoke free policy. Everything is free, and this process takes no longer than 2-3 hours.

If you are interested in developing your own smoke free policy or require any further information, please contact either Nicole or Keli at 1-800-459-1884 or visit www.secondhandsmoke.ca

*There are some exceptions to practicing traditional tobacco use depending upon the locality of the organization or community.  Contact the ETS Facilitator for more information.

Dr. Chris Andersen to Recieve Designation at the University of Alberta
Staff, Faculty and Students at the School of Native Studies would like to offer our sincere congratulations to an esteemed colleague and professor for successfully completing the defense of his Ph.D. dissertation this fall, entitled Courting Colonialism? The Juridical Construction and Political Aftermath of Métis Rights in R. v. Powley.  Dr. Andersen’s dissertation has also been nominated for the Governor General’s Medal. Professor Andersen will receive designation this June at the University of Alberta. 

For those of you who have never had the privilege of meeting Dr. Andersen here is a brief description of the man we thought should be included in this issue of Métis Matters. 

Originally from Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, Dr. Andersen has his roots in a family with a strong Métis identity including renowned fiddlers and Cree language enthusiasts. He originally began a degree in Engineering at Queen’s University, however changed his route to a BA Honors in Sociology that he completed in 1994.  Upon completion of his MA in Sociology at Queen’s in 1996, Dr. Andersen enrolled at the University of Alberta, and now 8 years later he has completed his Ph. D. dissertation. 

Dr. Andersen’s research efforts include the sociology of law, race and the political community, Métis issues, Urban Aboriginal issues, and Aboriginal people in the Criminal Justice system.  He has taught eight different courses for the School of Native Studies, and is continually looking for ways to integrate new topics that pertain to Native Studies into the classroom. 

In addition to his work in the classroom, Dr. Andersen also involves himself in the community by volunteering for various committees such as the Edmonton Social Planning Council, Edmonton Aboriginal Urban Affairs Committee, the Edmonton Youth Justice Committee, and various discussion groups.

For these reasons the School of Native Studies believes Dr. Chris Andersen should be publicly recognized.  Please join us in congratulating a great colleague and a serious academic.


Northern Lakes College Announces New President
Rick Neidig will assume the position of President and Chief Executive Officer of Northern Lakes College on September 1, 2005. 

Currently serving as Vice-President Academic for Northern Lakes College, Neidig has twenty-eight years of post-secondary experience. He has grown with the College in a variety of positions. During that time the organization evolved from its roots in the early 70’s as a provincially administered institution to the board-governed public college that exists today. 

Neidig has served in a senior management capacity for the past seventeen years including two years as Vice-President Academic and three years as Vice-President, College Services. Neidig earned his Bachelor of Education from the University of Alberta and his Master of Business Administration from Royal Roads University. Neidig will continue to live in High Prairie and work out of the Grouard Campus.

"Our College's reputation for community-based programming and strong learner support is well known," he says, adding, "I am honoured and excited to have the opportunity to serve as the new President of Northern Lakes College."

"The Board of Governors believes Neidig’s experience in building the College through past amalgamation and governance changes enables him to provide strong leadership. He is committed to the advancement of learning in our communities,” said Trevor Gladue, Chair of the Board of Governors of Northern Lakes College. “Given that the Alberta government has identified post-secondary education as their top priority, I look forward to working with Rick to lead us into the future."

Attention Teachers: Step Back in Time with your Students
History in the Hills is an Alberta Centennial 2005 Celebration from June 15 -18, 2005 at the Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park. It is an exciting opportunity for your students to travel through history from early Native cultures, to the arrival of the Europeans and the new Metis culture. The Fort Walsh North West Mounted Police Camp will show how the cultures came together!

Students will have the opportunity to observe an archaeology dig, interpreted by Dr. Gerald Oetelaar from the University of Calgary. Students will learn environmental awareness and be educated on the flora and fauna of the Cypress Hills. They will see tipis of the Blackfoot and the Cree and see Metis trappers' tents. They will hear stories, see dancing and watch drum making and hide tanning demonstrations! Bannock will be served over an open fire and a refreshment break will be provided. 

Join our Centennial Celebration, an excellent hands-on learning experience for all participants!! 

Please book your class through First Nation, Métis and Inuit Education Program, Deborah Lloyd 403-504-5665. 

Métis Author Dr. Maria Campbell Presents at Four Seasons Speakers Series
Athabasca University’s Centre for World Indigenous Knowledge and Research (CWIKR) is hosting its second installment of the 2005 Four Seasons Speakers' Series on Wednesday, June 22 from 12:00 - 1:30 pm at the Athabasca University Edmonton Learning Centre located in the Peace Hills Trust Tower, Suite1200, 10011-109 st, Edmonton, Alberta. We are pleased to be hosting Dr. Maria Campbell for a reading and a presentation.

Dr. Maria Campbell is a highly acclaimed Métis author, filmmaker, teacher and activist. She was born in northwest Saskatchewan into a family of eight children who were raised in a traditional Métis trapping lifestyle. Her first book, Halfbreed, was published in 1973 and has since become a classic in Aboriginal literature. Dr. Campbell has since published several works including Riel's People, People of the Buffalo, Achimoona and the Book of Jessica. Maria has dedicated most of her life to the Métis political movement and to developing and teaching Aboriginal literature, film-making and drama. She is presently Writer in Residence at the Department of Native Studies, University of Saskatchewan.

We invite four speakers a year to promote awareness and understanding of Indigenous issues. Speakers discuss Indigenous issues and Indigenized understandings of the Arts, Governance, Law, and Health.

We hope that you can join us for this event. Admission is free. Please RSVP to Michelle Tripe'de'Roche at 780-428-2064 or indigenous@athabascau.ca, if you would like to attend. If you are planning on bringing a large group, please let us know so that we can make arrangements.  You may also view this information on our website at www.athabascau.ca/indigenous.

Minister of Education Attends Aboriginal History Quiz 2005
Minister of Education, Honorable Gene Zwozdesky attended the Prince Charles School's Aboriginal History Quiz Awards Ceremony on Friday, April 22, 2005. He presented prizes to the winners and spoke to the children about the value of learning about the history and culture of Aboriginal people.

Throughout the week of April 18 - 22nd, 125 students from grades 3 to 6 took part in the third annual Aboriginal History Quiz.The quiz questions cover a variety of categories such as Aboriginal literature, arts and crafts, Inuit people, Métis people and Historic Aboriginal Canadians. The questions are aligned with the social studies curriculum. There are two elimination rounds ending in a final round.

The judges included: Honorable David Eggen, MLA Edmonton-Calder; Trustee Don Williams, Edmonton Public Schools; Jeannette Austin-Odina, Counsellor, Metro Community College and Noella Steinhauer, Principal, R.J.Scott/Lawton School.

All participants received a book with Aboriginal content and a certificate. First place winners received a Native rattle and GUS the "Growing Up Sober" bear!  The winners received both monetary and other prizes as well as their name engraved on a plaque that is prominently displayed the school.
 
The committee members are:  D. Jack, C. Spence,  A. Cardinal, L. Laventure, E. Ellingboe, T. Gelasco, G. Lepine, S. Sewepagaham and R. Hunter 

150 Ballons Released to Celebrate Aboriginal Head Start's 10 Year Anniversary
By Lorrie Lawrence

On May 6, 2005 if you looked up you may have seen balloons of red, blue, white and yellow gracefully floating in the sky. If you did, you were witness to the Aboriginal Head Start's celebration of 10 years of achievement. The Ben Calf Robe Society proudly hosted a celebration for their own Mother Earth & Me Aboriginal Head Start Program that also celebrated 10 years. Past, present and future students of the program came together to tribute the previous success and future goals of this program.

Balloons were handed out to students, staff and families of all four of the Mother Earth & Me Aboriginal Head Start sites, along with numerous dignitaries and fellow colleagues from the Ben Calf Robe Society. Looking around at the excited faces of the little ones, I could not help but reflect on my own personal journey with this one-of-a-kind program as a parent to now an employee. TJ Skalski, Program Manager of the Mother Earth & Me Head Start program counted out 1,2,3 (in Cree) with the assistance of some Head Start students, and Anthony Tootoosis, a 10 year graduate of the program’s first class cut the ribbon. There were 150 balloons in the colors representing the medicine wheel that floated gracefully high in the sky honoring a program strongly rooted in Aboriginal culture and the strength of family.

As a parent of two graduates of this program, I am proud to see how much it has grown from its modest start in the fall of 1996. As a current staff member now employed with the Head Start program, I have been allowed to learn and grow with our families, embrace my heritage and strengthen my own family. Originally with one site and approximately 40 students, Mother Earth & Me has grown to four Edmonton locations and over 150 students. The program boasts a well developed staff team which is lead by Bachelor of Education teachers, qualified support staff, and a unified belief that all children are sacred. Who knew such humble beginnings would lead to a soaring standard of educational excellence?

Such dignitaries as Audrey Poitras, President of the Métis Nation of Alberta, Trevor Gladue, Vice-President of the Métis Nation of Alberta, Susan Cardinal-Elected Secretary of the Métis General Council, Counsillor Ron Hayter sending greetings from Mayor Stephen Mandel, Darlene Auger-Program Consultant with the Public Health Agency of Canada, and NDP Leader Brian Mason attended the celebration. Co-Executive Director of the Ben Calf Robe Society Christine Lamontagne, gave a little history to the beginnings of the Head Start program to what it has grown to be today in her opening remarks. There were also performances by the White Buffalo drum group, Little Wheelers Métis jigging group and traditional Pow Wow dancers. Musical entertainment by Ben Calf Robe’s very own Laura Vinson and Dave Martineau as well as Darlene Auger from the Public Health Agency of Canada back up by Gary Lee and Ray St. Germain.

The wind might have been blowing but the celebration went on strong. Free bannock, cake, and refreshments were served as well the Parent Advisory Committee of the program hosted an Indian Taco lunch and bake sale. Face painting and traditional storytelling, the making of talking sticks and paper tipis were just some of the day’s events.

Like the countless graduates of the program, 150 symbols of the growth and hope floated across the cloudless sky. With them rose our hopes for the future and the pride in our successes already achieved.


Sick of Earning Poor Wages?
Join the growing league of Aboriginal women who are choosing trades as a way out of deadend jobs! Women Building Futures is conducting information sessions on their innovative program Journeywoman Start which helps women prepare for apprenticeships in the trades. 

Call 452-1200 for more information or visit our website at http://www.womenbuildingfutures.com  Information Sessions are held at Women Building Futures 11219 Jasper Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta (the entrance to our facility is in the
back alley just south of Jasper Avenue, between 112th and 113th street).

Our next course begins June 20th, 2005.

Our government wants to ensure that the Alberta Advantage is enjoyed by all Albertans. The blueprint for this success is known as the Rural Development Strategy. This bold, forwarding thinking plan has been formulated by my colleagues Doug Griffiths, chair of the Rural Development Strategy Task Force and MLA for Battle River-Wainwright, and Luc Ouellette, MLA for Innisfail-Sylvan Lake and Minister of Restructuring and Government Efficiency.

In order to develop our vision and plan, the pair held public-input meetings in 25% of the communities of Alberta with hundreds of organizations and thousands of individuals from all walks of life providing their feedback, said Griffiths.

“Rural development is not a one-year fix or a two-year initiative, but must be a 20-year plan for the future, not just for the benefit of rural Albertans but for the benefit of all Albertans,” Griffiths recently told his Legislature colleagues.

“Secondly, (this strategy) recognizes that rural development is not the sole responsibility of the provincial government, the federal government, or any local, municipal government. It’s everyone’s responsibility including the communities themselves.

“If a community is to survive, grow and prosper, they must start the initiative and then the governments must work with them if at all possible to make that vision happen.”

This strategy is helping government make great strides toward achieving its vision of: “A vibrant and prosperous province where Albertans enjoy a superior quality of life and are confident about the future for themselves and their children.”

The strategy entitled: ‘Today's Advantage, Tomorrow's Promise: Alberta's Vision for the Future’ renews and refreshes those hopes and dreams for the next 20 years. It will do this by building on Alberta's strengths and its successes over the last decade.
One of our goals for Aboriginal communities and people in Alberta is to improve social and economic circumstances through various initiatives. Improvements will result in a better quality of life and contributions to the province’s long-term vision, where Aboriginal Albertans have achieved a socio-economic status equivalent to that of other Albertans.

Government, in its latest budget, is providing $2.75 million in new funding to support First Nation’s economic capacity to help provide business skills, financial management, and knowledge so First Nations can take advantage of existing and emerging economic development opportunities.

Also worth noting is a monetary injection of an additional $1.45 million for Aboriginal consultations in the resource sector.
Another objective is to improve access by Aboriginal people to wellness information and primary health care services. For example, by 2010, we want to reduce by one year, the difference in life expectancy between Registered Indians in Alberta and all Albertans.

Our government is also committed to support life-long learning opportunities for Aboriginal people and promote appreciation of Aboriginal cultures. By 2010, we intend to see the percentage of Aboriginal learners aged 15 or older with high school completion at 60% and 30% with post-secondary completion (comparable 1996 percentages were 52.3 and 24.9 respectively).

We believe that by encouraging partnerships to increase participation by Aboriginal people in employment training, capacity building and entrepreneurship opportunities, by 2010, the difference in employment rates of Aboriginal Albertans and other Albertans will be less than 10 percentage points.

Our government is focused on providing better support for rural Alberta, which plays an important role in the overall well-being of the Albertans, its economy and the viability of the province.

If you have any questions about Alberta’s Métis and Aboriginal policies, contact Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development by e-mail at aand.website@gov.ab.ca or call (780) 427-8407. Send letters to:

Hon. Pearl Calahasen
403 Legislature Building
10800 – 97 Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta
T5K 2B6

New Movement in GEA
Attention is being called to the Aboriginal community of Edmonton.

There's a new kid on the block in Edmonton that goes by the monicker, Greater Edmonton Alliance (GEA). The object of this latest infant is to address some of the needs of city dwellers who are normally in a position of powerlessness.

At a May 15, 2005 assembly at Edmonton's Shaw Conference Centre, close to one thousand people turned up to a founding caucus that has set lofty and noble goals. Although these may include a wide range of concerns and issues, this particular assembly focussed mostly in such areas as sustainable incomes and affordable housing as well as protection from illegal drugs and social inclusion.

While everyone was busy patting each others back at the seeming success of the gathering, there remains a great deal of work that needs to be done and that circumscribes proper process and the inclusion of all sorts of people. In other words, it should not be comprised soley of those who are already in positions of power and authority. That has to filter down to include the poor, the illiterate, and those generally looked upon as the "little people." The little people can and should include Aboriginals, new immigrants, street people and more. They must not be overlooked. If they are, the new group will not fulfill one of its primary, stated objectives - that surrounds the concept of inclusion. The GEA has raised the bar in an apparent effort to especially help a powerless society and definitely has its work cut out. Already, at this founding meeting, I noticed only one Aboriginal person participating in the wrap up and evaluation sessions that closed the day and that individual's input was nominal to say the least.

Those powerless cannot afford to allow select individuals to get preferred treatment at the expense of their own. Aboriginals and other powerless people of the city must not be relegated to "the back of the bus." They cannot afford to buy into a body that is going to be out there speaking for these people. They must be embraced and included. The common man needs "our people" there speaking up, people representative of such groups as the Canadian Native Friendship Centre, the Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women, Nechi/Poundmaker Institute, Native Counselling Services, Bent Arrow, Ben Calf Robe Society and so many more.

Is the GEA off to a good start? Perhaps. But, as with any group, there is always room for improvement. The process that transpires is critical and that process has to provide the opportunity for anyone wishing to partake in the movement and should do so in its early stages. That means empowering the people now, right from the get-go and not months or years down the road. But, if Aboriginal society is to benefit and participate in any meaningful manner, they have to be there, in the trenches, and they have to be active. And, their involvement must be for the good of all and not entail self-serving objectives directed at themselves and themselves alone. That is not what it's all about.

The intent of the GEA appears  to be most worthy. Organizers, however, need to keep things in perspective and not lose sight of including those it is attempting to serve. Mainstream society has been guilty of doing this in the past and must not repeat those mistakes again. If they do, the origin of this admirable concept will likely prove an exercise in futility. Don't let that happen.

The Greater Edmonton Alliance can be contacted at #222, 10210-115 Ave. or phone 485-1089, or email: office@gea-purl.ca.

In 1900, at the turn of the century, the NWT government took a census of Whitford residents. (Alberta did not become a province until 1905). Most of the surnames were Whitford. It is no wonder that the town was named Whitford was after Andrew Whitford. Andrew, a town five miles down the road, was also named after Andrew Whitford. Other surnames included Monkman, Brown, Mennie, Taylor, Henderson, Jackson and Littlechild. Many of the residents were noted as being born in Austria.
 
The census states that my grandfather and grandmother Robert and Jessie Littlechild were twenty-six years old and their little boys Cleophas (three years) and John (one year). As I reviewed the names on the pages, I imagined how different the world must have been then and, of course how young everyone was.

For years we knew about the abandoned and lost graveyard south of Andrew. Thankfully, on June 15, 2005 there will be a sacred ceremony by the Saddle Lake First Nation to reclaim the graves at Andrew. This is where my Kookum Emma is buried. It still astounds me that the Mayor of Andrew actually removed the gravestone off the grave of Andrew Whitford  and placed it in the town of Andrew as a corner stone. He writes very proudly about this in the Dreams and Destinies 75th anniversary book.

Celebrating Métis Heritage
On June 21, National Aboriginal Day (NAD) was nationally proclaimed in 1996 to honour the culture and contributions that Métis, First Nations, and Inuit people continue to make to Canada. This also provides an opportunity for Canadians and Albertans to broaden their understanding of the significant contributions the Métis have made to national and provincial history. As you may know, it is also the longest day of the year, and we like to make the most of a great day!

Flexcare is a supplemental health insurance plan that offers unique combination of health benefits for you, your family and your business employees.  There are combination plans with both drug and dental along with extended health benefits and there are plans for just dental or drug along with extended health benefits.

Many common health care expenses such as dental work, prescription drugs, prescription glasses, private and semi-private hospital room and more are not covered by your government health insurance plan.  If you are not fully covered by a group plan, these expenses are paid through your own pocket!  With Flexcare, you’ll have a peace of mind.  You will know that you are covered for both the routine and the unexpected expenses that may occur due to accident or illness.

Keep in mind:

• Flexcare also offers coverage for those over 65 years of age or older
• You can write off your premiums for your business if you are self employed or have a corporation.  When you add up the potential tax savings, your Flexcare health plan could virtually pay for itself!
• Couples living in the same household get a discount rate when both applying
• Flexcare offers Add-Ons for that added top up coverage that you may require to your Core plan
• Flexcare offers Stand Alones, build a unique plan suited to you without a Core plan
• In most cases, prescription drug and dental claims are processed immediately with our electronic direct payment system.  All done by your personalized Flexcare Card!
• NO WAITING PERIOD TO GET YOUR DENTAL WORK DONE!  As soon as you are approved you can make that appointment to see your dentist!
• Survivor Benefit – Provides for coverage to be continued for 1 year, following the death of an adult policyholder.

We tend to forget about taking care of ourselves, families and our employees.  We get caught up in our day to day tasks.  We don’t realize we need to take care of ourselves until it is too late. Having the assurance of not worrying about how much an ambulance, STARS air ambulance, physiotherapy, homecare,  nursing or emergency travel expenses will be, can make the world of difference.

If you are interested in inquiring more information for you, your family or business or would like to apply for your coverage please contact me at:

Shawna J Serniak
Financial Advisor
 
Tryshaw Financial
Office:  (780) 426-2400 or 1-800-689-0896
Cell:  (780) 953-3184
Fax:  (780) 423-0311

May 6, 2005 proved a very special evening for several Aboriginal women as the 2005 Esquao Awards honoured some of the premiere female Elders from the Native communities of Alberta. Especially acknowledged were three centenarians - Mary Benoit, Flora Cardinal and Bella Gladue. Sponsored by the Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women (IAAW), this was the tenth anniversary for the awards which have now recognized over 200 individual women as "Angels Among Us."

Not looking anywhere near her age, Benoit, born at Lac La Nonne on August 27, 1903, married Pat in 1922. The couple raised nine children and have 12 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren and 14 great-great-grandchildren. She resides in St. Albert and lived independently until 2003.

Born Christmas Day in 1901, Flora Cardinal from Kehewin, Alberta, has eight children, 24 grandchildren, and numerous great and great-great grandchildren. Up until last fall she, too, lived independently.

The third centenarian honoured, Bella Gladue, was born May 13, 1905, at Strugeon Lake but was raised most of her life in Grouard. She and husband Jim raised eight children and are responsible for more then 100 grandchildren, great and great-great grandchildren. At present she lives with relatives in Grande Prairie.

Between the three ladies, what a wonderful legacy they leave this province in its centennial year! The Honourable Pearl Calahasen, Alberta's Aboriginal Affairs Minister, co-emceed the evening program with former Member of Parliament Willy Littlechild at Edmonton's Agricom. These "cha'pans" (the Cree word for great and great-great grandmothers) are women who "have lived through many changes - social, political, technological and personal that the rest of us here can only pray we will be so blessed to see," said Calahasen.

The trio was honoured with a song by local singer Rory Collins and presented with a number of special gifts as this first portion of the evening concluded.

In addition to the three centenarians, the IAAW also respected the presence of four lifetime achievers who were award recipients - Annie Bear Shin Bone from the Kainai First Nation, Dorothy Chartrand of Edmonton, Isabel Longmore from Edson and Leonie Willer from High Prairie.

A few of the evening entertainers included Alaskan singer Tanya Lukin who now calls Edmonton home, the Spirit Woman Singers and country singer Rory Collins.

Rickie Lynn Stepien was presented the Aspiring Young Woman Award while Calgary's Velma Dumont received the Business Award.

Five Community Involvement Awards were issued, going to Nora Chapdelaine from Faust, Murleen Crossen of Alberta Beach, Edmonton's Sophie Dion, Yvonne Oshanyk from Hinton and Margaret Simpson from Ft. Chipewyan.

Edna Arcand from Morinville, June Cardinal-Howse from Buffalo Lake and Laurie Lee Thompson of Lac La Biche were Education Award recipients while Health and Medicine Awards went to Edmonton's Kathleen Cardinal and Alice Reid from Wabasca.

The newly-created Madge McCree Memorial Culture Award was presented to Isabel and Rose Auger from Smith and St. Albert, Slave Lake's Mary Brown and Olive Manitopyes from Calgary. This award was established in honour of the late and highly-regarded Slave Lake Elder, Madge McCree, who also served as an Elder of the IAAW.

The final round of awards were in the category of Performing Arts which went to Edmonton's Wendy Walker and Edna Rain while the Social Services and Advocacy Awards were presented to Beatrice LeBoeuf from Grande Cache and Elsie Stenstrom from Slave Lake.

Additional entertainment was provided by Edmonton vocalist Donita Large and hypnotist Scott Ward from Red Deer.

Aboriginal Veterans Dedicate Plaque at Alberta's Legislative Grounds
By Terry Lusty

Aboriginal veterans were somewhat at a loss to put smiles to their faces on April 30, 2005 as they officially dedicated a plaque to Aboriginal soldiers who had participated in various wars over the years. One of their own local members who was instrumental in efforts leading up to the ceremonies of the day, Chester (Chuck) Knutson, passed away earlier that same day and his presence was sorely missed.

The dedication plaque sits prominently at a select location just a short distance from the main entrance to the north doors of the Alberta Legislative Building in Edmonton.

Although the day turned up cool and crisp, even 93 year-old Fred Belcourt from Gift Lake faced it bravely wearing only a thin navy-coloured suitcoat. And, Henry Daniels, 78, who was confined to a wheelchair, also stayed around for the full ceremony.

Vic Letendre, president of the Aboriginal Veterans Society of Alberta, praised the work of Knutson whom he credited with "helping this memorial become a reality." That is why, he explained, a single yellow rose stood alongside the plaque during the commemoration.

"This (plaque) is something that will bring honour to those who gave everything . . . got nothing," stated Alberta Aboriginal Affairs Minister Pearl Calahasen.

Representing city council, Ron Hayter, said the cool weather was "nothing compared to what the veterans went through." One of the few female veterans, Senator Thelma Chalifoux, recalled "good" memories and "sad" ones as well. Her own late husband "was wounded" and "got to be an alcoholic." Such were the costs of war, she explained. Chailifoux encouraged the younger generation to consider joining the army's "exciting" Bold Eagle Program. "Our people have always been in the military," she said.

Manitoba's Metis president Dave Chartrand, accused Canada of abandoning the Metis veterans by not giving them "due recognition, compensation." The governemnt, he explained, gave the Japanes 25,000 dollars (each), the First Nations 20,000 dollars, while the Metis "got nothing." In consequence, he stated, "we're pushing hard for veterans issues" through the Metis National Council.

The dedication ceremonies were followed by a banquet at the Continental Inn. Prior to the dedication, the society held its Annual General Meeting which included the re-election of Letendre as president and Don Langford as the vice-president. John McDonald was elected secretary, Hugh Belcort as treasurer and Jack White as the Sgt.-at-Arms.

Former army Major Ed Borchert from Calgary informed the crowd that his vision to "call home the spirits of fallen warriors," who are buried in Europe will finally come to pass in Oct. of this year. A contingent of Aboriginal veterans will then journey to Holland where they will conduct a special ceremony to return the spirits back to their birth country, Canada.

The society is currently preparing to participate in the May 23 - 25 visit of Queen Elizabeth to Edmonton in honour of the province's 100th birthday celebrations.

First All Aboriginal Lobby Group in Canada Led by Hon. Dr. Thelma Chalifoux
"As long as the Aboriginal people need my help, I will never retire," says the first Aboriginal women ever appointed to the Senate of Canada.

Prior to her appointment to the Senate of Canada, Thelma Chalifoux served as the Co-Chair of the Alberta Métis Elders Senate where the Métis anthem and prayer were developed and adopted. Part of her role as Co-Chair was to develop a dispute resolution process. She also chaired the National Métis  Senate Constitutional Commission where a draft government structure including a Métis definition was developed.

During her time in the Senate of Canada Dr. Chalifoux was the Chairperson of the Senate Standing Committee on Aboriginal Peoples where all legislation and issues regarding the Aboriginal people of Canada are dealt with. She was also a member of the Senate Standing Committee on Agriculture and Forestry.

Now that all of that is behind her she has developed the first all Aboriginal lobby group in Canada known as Chalifoux Developments Inc. With Dr. Chalifoux as the team leader, five other high profile Aboriginal people have registered as lobbyists to work with and be mentored by the Hon. Dr. Thelma Chalifoux. They include former Chief of the Blood Tribe in southern Alberta Chris Shade and former Chief of the Six Nations in Ontario Bill Montour. Working together they bring an impressive amount of expertise and insight into the workings of government as it relates to Aboriginal community issues and the policies that affect them.

The Honorable Dr. Thelma Chalifoux is without a doubt, living proof of her hardy Métis heritage she is so proud of and she continues to dedicate her life to preserving the culture and improving the lives of the Aboriginal people of Canada.

Métis Nation of Alberta Region 5 Report
By Bev New, Metis Nation of Alberta Region 5 President

Elders Advisory Committee Members Needed
The Métis Nation of Alberta (MNA) Region 5 was successful in accessing funding under the Federal government’s “New Horizons for Seniors Program”. New Horizons for Seniors is a Social Development Canada program that supports local projects across Canada that help seniors to participate in social activities, pursue an active life and contribute to their communities.

The program objectives are as follows:

• To harness the skills, experience and wisdom of seniors to help themselves and their community;
• To reduce the risk of social isolation of seniors.
• The intent of this program is to reach out to seniors (65+) and specifically targets seniors who are semi-isolated and who would not normally participate in community events.

With this in mind, we submitted a proposal to form an MNA Region 5 Elders Advisory Committee who will work with our youth at risk and their families. The committee will also look at senior-specific issues and identify regional services and make recommendations for programs to address gaps in services.

The committee will meet approximately once a month in Slave Lake or High Prairie and will be involved in the design and delivery of special events and programs.

Transportation (mileage) will be reimbursed and arrangements for accommodations made when appropriate. Elders who facilitate workshops will be paid for their services however; there is no honorarium for committee members as per the program criteria.

Interested Elders should forward their names and a brief letter describing their interests and talents. A selection committee will interview the successful applicants and make recommendations to the Regional Council for appointments.
For more information, please contact Liz McSweyn at  (780) 849-4654

National Aboriginal Day Event
MNA Region 5 is currently working with other community organizations to plan a National Aboriginal Day parade and BBQ in the park in Slave Lake.  Families are welcome to come out and join in the festivities as well as try their talents in a Laughing or Moose Calling Contest.  We are also hoping to have a Jam session so if you would like to showcase your talent then come out have a hot dog and shine.  If you are a Métis artist who would like to show your wares, please contact Janette at 780-849-4654 and she can arrange with you the details. 

Scholarship
A reminder to all those students currently in school (excluding post secondary) the MNA Region 5 has four  scholarships available and is currently accepting applications.  Call 780.849.4654 for more information or check out the Métis Bursary & Scholarship Handbook. 

Business Development
Remember a Business Development Officer from Apeetogosan is working in our Regional Office.  Fred Auger is willing to assist members in applying for funding for business and can be reached at 780.849.4654.  Apeetogosan has some fantastic opportunities for youth (under 35 years) looking to start a business or enhance an existing one.  

Well, I'll say so long till next month, from Region 5 President Bev New & Council. If have any questions, concerns or ideas, please  contact our office anytime. Our staff and executive will be pleased to try and assist each person courteously and efficiently.  So for now be safe and stay well!!

Region 5 ~ Vice President Peter Campion, Region 5 Council & staff would like to extend GREAT BIG HAPPY BIRTHDAY to our Region 5 President Bev New.

New Fiddle CDs Released
John Arcand - Master of the Métis Fiddle has just released his 10th recording. Thru the Years celebrates over 160 years of Métis fiddling and features John's composition The Saskatchewan Centennial Reel . Visit the website www.johnarcand.com for more information.

Calvin Volrath released three new CDs on April 23rd, 2005.

Strings of Pearl is a CD filled with Calvin's original tunes he has composed in the last year with a couple of his older tunes he wrote a number of years ago. This is Calvin's 30th year in the music business, thus Strings of Pearl.

Métis Style Fiddle is a CD filled with traditional Métis fiddle tunes from many years ago. You will find The Red River Jig, two different Duck Dances, Big John McNeil and many others on this CD.

Air Mail Special is a CD that Calvin recorded in Nashville Tennessee with the legendary Buddy Spicher. This CD is filled with swing instrumentals including, Air Mail Special, Whispering, Charmaine, Cherokee and many more. Also playing with Calvin and Buddy on this CD are some great Nashville musicians, including Buddy Emmons on steel guitar and Mike Dowling on guitar.

All three new CDs are available online at Calvin's website www.calvinvollrath.com. Print out an order form and mail it to 4513-45 Ave. St. Paul, AB Canada T0A 3A3 along with your payment.
 
Please sign the guest book on Calvin's website when you drop in. 

MNA Gunn Local Council #55 Developing Métis Park 
On April 16th, 2005, Ray McKenzie, President for the Métis Nation of Alberta (MNA) Gunn Local Council #55 accepted a cheque for $23,737.00 from George Vander Burg, MLA for Whitecourt/Lac Ste. Anne. This cheque was a matching grant from Alberta Lotteries to develop the Métis Park on the shore of Lac Ste. Anne in Gunn, Alberta.

Gunn Local Council #55 has managed this park for the past seven years. Presently it is a day park with no overnight campers. The park has been re-named "Dion Day Park" to honour the two Métis brothers, Pat and Jerry Dion, who used to build a skating rink for the children and hockey teams every year for quite some years. 

President Ray McKenzie and local members have been clearing the underbrush and trees in the area. The County of Lac Ste. Anne cut down the dead and dangerous trees, then Donald Cunningham and Ray bucked up the trees by power saw, and local members helped pile the wood, which will be used for firewood by the park participants.

The Gunn Local plans for this year are to complete the clearing and cleaning of the park area, to build a wheelchair accessible paved pathway and stairways to the edge of the lake and to display new signage.

Letter to Editor Re: Métis Officer Murdered

April 26, 2005

 Dear Sirs,

In your last newsletter (April 2005), you did a story about the four Mounties that were killed in the line of duty.  You said one was a Métis, but you neglected to say another one also was – Anthony Fitzgerald Orion Gordon.

He was born in Edmonton, but has roots in the Northwest Territories.  His mother, Doreen Jewell was born in Fort Fitzgerald, Alberta.  Anthony’s great grandfather was Ernest Benjamin Jewel – a constable with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police from 1859 – 1895.  He came from England in 1867, serving at the Riel Rebellion.  He asked to be transferred and was sent to Fort Chippewan, there he met and married my great grandmother, Rose Marten.  He died in 1942 in Fort Fitzgerald and is buried there.  In the cemetery, his is the only gravesite that has an RCMP headstone, which really stands out amongst the others.

Anthony also has cousins and second cousins that are members of the force today.  Our family is proud of each and every one of them.

Yours truly,
Irene Kowal

Not Only One But Two Métis RCMP Died at Mayerthorpe
By Terry Lusty

With no intention to neglect, forget or slight anyone, Métis Matters extends its regrets to family members and friends of the late Constable Anthony Gordon who was one of the four RCMP officers gunned down by James Roszko on March 3, 2005 near Mayerthorpe, Alberta. Unknown to Métis Matters at the time was the fact that Gordon, like Constable Leo Johnston, was also of Métis heritage. Métis Matters is pleased that this information was recently brought to its attention in a letter from a relative, Irene Kowal, who mentioned that Gordon had roots in the Northwest Territories. She further pointed out that he was the son of Doreen Jewell from Ft. Fitzgerald, a tiny bush community along the Slave River  between Ft. Chipewyan and Ft. Smith.

Gordon had a number of cousins who were in the RCMP, she said. In fact, Gordon's great-grandfather, Ernest Benjamin Jewell, was a member for approximately 36 years from 1859 to 1895, she explained. He served with the North West Mounted Police during the 1885 Riel Resistance and (on request) was later transferred to Ft. Chipewyan. There he met and eventually married Rose Marten. Ernest passed away on 1942 at Ft. Fitzgerald where he is buried.

Once again Métis Matters' failure to include Gordon's ancestry in the previous month's (April) edition of the paper was not by design but purely coincidental, based on simple lack of knowledge. If there was any hardship or discomfort on the part of any of his family or friends, Métis Matters extends its sincerest apologies. Our publication happens to have a soft spot for those who serve our people as protectors and we wish those who were close to any of the four murdered Mounties a speedy recovery in their healing process.

Jigging Instructor Needed
A jigging instructor is needed in Calgary, Alberta for various groups and events. Must have a flexible schedule. Call Lorelei at 403-277-5404 .

Camping
By Waylen McDonald, Grade Four, Father J.A. Turcotte School, Fort McMurray, Alberta

In the summer camping is fun,
swimming and splashing under the hot sun.
I love roasting marshmallows over the campfire,
watching the flames go higher and higher.
I love to catch fish by the lake,
the smell of barbecued steak.
I love the excitement of hunting moose,
breakfast outside and fresh squeezed orange juice.


Métis Youth Wins Honor of Showcasing at Klondike Days
After a breath taking drum solo with ten toms, two base drums, a double pedal and many symbols Corbin Poitras of Elk Point, Alberta won the Elk Point Talent Explosion on April 30, 2005 at FG Miller High School. This honor allows him to showcase his talent at Klondike Days in Edmonton, Alberta this July. The drum solo and theme was created by Corbin. Congratulations and best of luck at Klondike Days!

Michif Cultural and Resource Institute to Establish an Aboriginal Crafts Industry
The Michif Cultural and Resource Institute are creating a list of Aboriginal women who produce Aboriginal crafts. The concept is to find marketing avenues such as the tourism industry to supply the retailers with quantities of Aboriginal crafts. The Institute is slao looking into sponsoring a Native Crafts Co-op that would buy crafts for cash rather than on consignment to enhance the Crafts Industry.

For more inforamtion contact Garry Gairdner at 780-458 9176 or email michifnow@hotmail.com. The Michif Cultural & Resource Institute is located on 9 Mission Avenue, St. Albert, Alberta T8N 1H5.  

Métis Nation of Ontario Election Results Announced
Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Chief Electoral Officer, Lawrence Gladue, announced the results of the elections of the MNO's four province wide governing institutions: The Provisional Council of the Métis Nation of Ontario- (PCMNO); Women of the Métis Nation of Ontario (WMNO), Métis Nation of Ontario Youth (MNOY); and the Métis Nation of Ontario Veterans Council (MNOVC).

The elections took place on May 2, 2005 at various polling stations across the province. The final results of the contested positions are as follows:

PCMNO Secretary-Treasurer
Incumbent Tim Pile

MNOVC President
Incumbent Shaun Vincent Redmond

PCMNO Regional Councillors
Brent Calder, Region 1
Incumbent Guy Lefebvre, Region 3
Incumbent Brent McHale, Region 4
Pauline Saulnier, Region 7
Eric Scofield, Region 9

The following candidates were acclaimed

Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Executive
Tony Belcourt, President
Gary Lipinski, Chair
France Picotte, Co-Chair

Provisional Councillors of the Métis Nation of Ontario
Cameron Burgess, Region 2
Maurice Sarrazin, Region 5
Sharon McBride Region 8

Post Secondary Representative, PCMNO
Anita Tucker

Métis Nation of Ontario Veteran's Council
Sharlene Elaine Lance, Secretary-Treasurer, MNOVC
Shelly Claus, Women Representative- MNOVC
Elmer Ross, Senator, MNOVC
Vincent Patrick Redmond, Youth Rep -MNOYC

WMNO Regional Councillors
Barbara Parker, Region 1
Carman Cravel, Region 3
Evelyn Powley, Region 4

Métis Nation of Ontario Youth (MNOY)
Natasha Lefebvre, Region 6
Chantal Kondracki, Region 8

For further information contact: Katelin Peltier MNO Communications Officer Cell : (613) 859-7130

Retracing The Route Of  The Historic Métis Voyageurs
On Monday May 16, 2005 six Métis youth began two weeks of  rigorous training that will be required to get them through their 8 week, 2000 km journey, that is retracing the route of  the historic Métis voyageurs.  This year the Métis Canoe Expedition II (MCExII) will depart from Chippewa Park in Thunder Bay, Ontario on June 1st, 2005 and will venture into the interior of the historic northwest, following the trade routes used by our ancestors, the Métis Voyageurs, in the 18th and 19th centuries.  Their final destination is the Batoche National Historic Site in Saskatchewan where they will join in the annual Back to Batoche Celebrations during the third weekend in July.

Tony Belcourt, President of the MNO stated "This expedition is will provide our Métis youth with a unique, once in a lifetime opportunity to follow in the shadows of our ancestors."  The Voyageurs will be travelling in a historic twenty-six foot voyageur canoe while on the water, and where they can't travel via water they will do the historic portages that our ancestors did over 200 years ago.

A major component of the MCExII is the celebration and promotion of the contribution of Métis people to Canada's history. Along the route the voyageurs will be visiting many Métis communities to share their experiences and provide educational sessions on the Métis.  President Belcourt said "This expedition will bring a greater focus and source of pride to Métis people and communities along the route and we look forward to them taking part in supporting and encouraging our young voyageurs." In the past some communities held a feast for our participants to show their appreciation for the hard work that they are doing, or some would have members in their community show up at the river to cheer for them as they passed by!

Put into mixer bowl: flour, baking powder, sugar twin and salt. Cut in margarine on low speed for 3 minutes. (Mixture to look like fine meal.) Add 1/2 cup skim milk, beat 1/2 minute on medium speed, add remaining milk and beat 1 minute. Add egg and beat 1 minute. Pour into greased 8 inch pan. Sprinkle with topping.

Topping:

1 tbsp melted margarine
4 tsp sugar twin
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 cup breadcrumbs

Mix together and sprinkle over top. Bake 20 minutes at 375.

Source: Building Healthy Communities MNA Cookbook March 2004