Looking for Scholarship Money?
If you’re a Métis youth interested in a career in broadcasting, apply for the Much Music Aboriginal Youth Scholarship!

The scholarship, created in partnership with AYN (Aboriginal Youth Network), will be granted to the person who best demonstrates skill, talent, and enthusiasm for pursuing a career in broadcasting.

It’s worth $3000 – to go towards paying your tuition for any post-secondary institution – so make sure you apply now!

Contest is open to all Aboriginal Canadians under 25. Deadline is November 30, 2005. Applications are available online at www.ayn.ca

If you have further questions, contact AYN Communications Officer Ryan Janvier at (780) 459-1884.


R.I.E.L. Institute Looking to Expand Programming to Calgary
By Terry Lusty

Joan Tornberg, Executive Director for the R.I.E.L. Institute for Education and Learning, is ecstatic about the fact that their college program is now seeing a growth spurt that is nothing but good news for the Aboriginal communities of this province. Through Nor Quest College in Edmonton, the R.I.E.L. Institute is set to take off with its next round of the Aboriginal Family and Youth Support Program this coming January. The certificated program is nine months in duration with the ability for students to then transfer into a social work degree program and, perhaps, move on into the work-force. The programs they sponsor, she explained, are highly reliant on the cooperation and participation of funding bodies and organizations where students can do field placements for their practicums or find gainful employment upon completion of their programs. "Without the agencies full cooperation and partnership with R.I.E.L. (Institute), many people would not have jobs," she said. Last year, they managed to graduate "24 students, most of whom went on to higher education or the work force."

Potential students can apply for funding by way of student loans if they have Grade 1X, are over 18 and have been out of school for one or more years.

In Edmonton, the R.I.E.L. Institute has been going full steam and practicum placements are being arranged to accommodate the fall student body, said Tornberg. They are also investigating the possibility of drawing Calgary into the picture. At this time, they have had discussions with some institutions that have been "very positive and they are favourable to the concept," she stated. Calgary, she added, is looking at possibly partnering with institutions to deliver the program and that, she added, is supported by the Métis Nation of Alberta and various First Nation bands. "As well, we are chasing after grants and donations that can help students realize their dreams," said Tornberg. Funding agencies are always a key component and she hopes that Calgary area communities like High River, Lethbridge, Okotoks, Nanton, Strathmore, Taber and Ft. McLeod also climb on board.

At the time of this writing the Edmonton staff and students were getting ready for a feast and to also help Sacred Heart Church which always has a special day set aside at Lac St, Anne where students volunteer to assist and help others. The students can take a program-sponsored bus for themselves and their families. This service has been in operation for about five years now, she said.

With the burgeoning increases in the city's urban Aboriginal populations in Calgary and Edmonton, “there's a growing need and demand for Aboriginal graduates," Tornberg stated. At this time, the R.I.E.L. Institute has 40 people on its waiting list for the spring program intakes. “I’m marketing this program to Calgary, hopefully to a successful conclusion," she explained.

In sum, "They want us, (but) it's about funding," stated Tornberg. And so it is that approaches for funding are continually pursued and there is some progress with the province, the Métis Nation of Alberta, First Nations groups and the Deputy Minister of Learning.

The R.I.E.L. Institute may be contacted at (780) 644-6412, fax 477-3812 or E-mail to: joan.tornberg@norquest.ca

Minister of Aboriginal Affairs & Northern Development
By Honourable Pearl Calahasen, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development

As a result the Alberta government has developed a strategy aimed at facilitating the development of products available. It will help to raise the awareness of cultural issues and assist in the marketing of Aboriginal tourism experiences like Métis Crossing at the Victoria Settlement near Smoky Lake, AB.

The new 13-member Aboriginal Tourism Advisory Council formed recently will bring together leaders in Aboriginal tourism and business in order to create opportunities to showcase their unique products to the world’s tourism buyers. Panel members from the Metis community include: Stan Delorme of the Buffalo Lake Métis Settlement; Fern Welch of Grouard; Gary Gairdner of St. Albert; Donna Lajeunesse of Grande Prairie, and Eric Nystrom of Rocky Mountain House.

The council, with representatives from across the province, was set up to deal with all tourism-related operators offering aboriginal-themed experiences. There is a clear opportunity and need in this unique industry, Alberta Economic Development Minister Clint Dunford said.
 
“I have asked the council to provide me with ideas on ways to expand the industry in Alberta, both to ensure tourists are aware of the culturally significant experience available to them and to create jobs. Aboriginal tourism also has endless potential because it offers unique historical experiences,” Dunford said.

“International demand is increasing and the council will help government and the community work together to ensure future growth.”

The new panel will move Aboriginal tourism into a brighter spotlight. The council will search for innovative ways to bolster the tourism industry across Alberta, with Aboriginal people having input into the process. The council is expected to help guide government’s support for tourism development and marketing.
 
“Aboriginal tourism also has endless potential because it offers unique historical experiences,” Dunford added.

Council members will also ensure that new tourism development considers Aboriginal culture, history and traditions as guided by the Elders. “Aboriginal tourism includes all tourism-related businesses that offer an Aboriginal-themed experience,” Dunford added.

With such a big facet of tourism focusing on visitors wanting to experience cultural situations that are new to them, looking to the Aboriginal community for its insight in this regard was logical because a lot of visitors who come into Alberta are looking for different experiences they can’t get where they live.

Dunford said that the council will provide him with thoughts on building the industry “to ensure tourists are aware of the culturally significant experience available to them, and to create jobs.”

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

The advisory council includes Aboriginal members from across the province, as well as staff from Travel Alberta, Alberta Economic Development, and Alberta Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development. Aboriginal members are: Chief Victor Buffalo of Samson Cree Nation; Chief Strater Crowfoot of Siksika Nation Council; Chief Ernest Wesley of Wesley First Nation; Henry Arcand of Alexander First Nation; Stan Delorme of Buffalo Lake Métis Settlement; Gary Gairdner of St. Albert; Donna Lajeunesse of Grande Prairie, Eric Nystrom of Rocky Mountain House, Archie Waquan of Mikisew Cree First Nation, and Fern Welch of Grouard.

Working with You
By Trevor W. Gladue, Provincial Vice President of the Métis Nation of Alberta

• rate, and
• easy access to your money.

Getting the best rate possible
If you’re carrying a balance on a credit card or a traditional bank loan, you’re probably paying more in interest than you need to.  The ability to borrow at a preferred rate can lower your monthly expenses and leave you with more money for day-to-day expenses or long-term financial planning.

Access a loan easily and quickly when the need arises
Even if you don’t need to borrow money today, it’s important to have access to cash should an urgent need arise. The ability to borrow means you won’t have to sell investments and derail your financial plan when a short-term need for cash arises.

You may be entitled to an Access Line of Credit.  An Access Line of Credit costs you nothing until you use it and, when you do use it, you get a preferred rate of interest – Manulife Bank Prime +1%*.  Plus, you’ll have a variety of ways to access the money you need, such as chequing, ABM withdrawals, online transfers and debit purchases.

The ability to borrow is a critical element of any financial plan. An Access Line of Credit can provide you with peace of mind knowing that you can easily access cash at a good interest rate when the need arises – whether that’s tomorrow or ten years from now.

Give me a call if you’d like to discuss this opportunity and, together, we can determine if an Access Line of Credit is right for you.

* Manulife Bank’s prime rate is variable and subject to change.

Métis Interest 

Métis Nation of Alberta Citizens Elect Provincial Council
Audrey Poitras was re-elected President of the Métis Nation of Alberta on September 6 with almost 70% of the unofficial vote count, according to the Nation¹s website as of September 9.
    
Poitras' 2,214 votes easily defeated challengers, Don Langford, 707 votes, and Alyse McLeod, 294.
    
Incumbent Trevor Gladue also was returned to the Vice President office by a landslide 75% of the vote, to beat Ephram Bouvier, 2,377 to 792.
    
In Region 1, one of 12 polls had not reported as of September 9 so results were still unclear.  Unofficial vote count for regional president were: Ken Bourque, 256; Christine Cardinal, 233; Joe Blyan, 140; and Alan Ladouceur, 90.
    
The vice-presidency of Region 1 saw the initial vote count being Rick Boucher, 276; Wilford Boucher, 197; Florence Hamelin, 176; and Darrin Boucher, 64. 
    
In Region 2, Karen (KC) Collins was the winner with 162 votes to Brenda Bathory's 123.
    
Homer Poitras was acclaimed vice president of Region 2.
    
Marlene Lanz was elected president of Region 3 with 220 votes, defeating Gloria Contois-McGillis who received 190 votes.
    
Joe Chodzicki's 216 votes gave him the Region 3 vice presidency over Arlene Fraser, 192.
    
In Region 4, Cecil Bellrose won the three-way race for the president's office with 362 votes.  Trailing were Garry Gairdner, 309, and Mary-Ann Stepien, 145.
    
Tim Collins was elected Region 4 vice president with 225 votes, followed by Gwen Milbrath, 207; Al Findlay, 197; Austin Goulet, 89; and Tom (TJ) Roy, 77.                
    
Bev New was re-elected president of Region 5, beating challenger Harold Auger, 319 to 89.
    
Peter Campion was re-elected as Region 5 vice president, beating Kim Courtorielle, 232 votes to 164.
    
In Region 6, Sylvia Johnson outpaced the competition with 329 votes and took the president¹s office, defeating Les Nooskey, 118, and Bill Descheneaux, 106.
    
Louis Bellrose is Region 6 vice-president, having gained 205 votes while Odell Flett got 146, Angie Crerar, 114 and Joan Setz, 75.
    
Detailed poll-by-poll results may be obtained from the office of the Chief Electoral Officer by calling (780) 452 8235.

Métis Crossing Comes Alive Thanks to Hard Work by Participants and Organizers Alike
By Terry Lusty

It was quite the celebration on August 26 at Métis Crossing, approximately 12 miles south of Smoky Lake or just a little better than an hours drive from Edmonton. Phase 1 of the Métis Crossing project has come full circle and is now history. However, the conclusion of that leg of development was not without its trials and errors, aches and pains and financial strains. Indeed, it took the hearts, minds and hard working hands of many individuals and groups to build on a dream that originated some time ago when the late Métis Nation president, Larry Desmeules, was still with the movement.

Through the individual and collective efforts of numerous individuals and committees led by the Métis Nation of Alberta, Phase 1 unfolded and culminated in a colossal August 26 celebration at the Crossing, an event-filled celebration that honoured the 100th birthday of Alberta as a province. It included the arrival of the Métis Crossing Centennial Voyage comprised of four canoes and 26 paddlers that canoed down the North Saskatchewan River from Edmonton August 24 as well as the Métis Nation Centennial Wagon Trek that started off August 1from Saskatchewan with both arriving at Métis Crossing at noon on the 26th. For many, it proved an exciting occasion as they re-traced the footsteps along the highways of yesterday, those being the historic water routes and Red River cart trails that snaked across the vast Canadian western landscape.

 And what a welcome the hardy travellers received as hundreds of people lined the banks of the river, whooping and applauding the Métis paddlers and trekkers who were marched up the banks to the stage area for some well-deserved recognition of their real-life re-enactment of a traditional journey that was the norm for their ancestors of yesteryear. The meeting of east (the wagons) and west (the canoes) proved a proud moment for the participants who ranged from youth to Elders, all arrayed in traditional attire of ribbon shirts and sashes and carrying with them memories that will likely last each and every one of them a lifetime.

Much of what transpired would not have been possible were it not for the commitment and dedicated efforts of too many to be named but must certainly include organizers Juanita Marois, Kim Mueller, Sharon Cherweniuk and Skipper Villeneuve in addition to the Victoria Landing Development Board - Gayle Desmeules, Lloyd Norris, Homer Poitras, Jason Gariepy, Ed Bercier and Art Cunningham - and special committee members, as well as numerous financial contributions from Alberta's Centennial Legacies Grant in the amount of one million dollars, Canative Housing Corp. and so many more.
In this, the Year of the Veteran, a semblance of Métis veterans and former servicemen were likewise paraded front and centre to the stage area and acknowledged for their past contributions. Words of welcome emanated from Métis Nation president Audrey Poitras, Vice-president Trevor Gladue, MLA Pearl Calahasen, National Métis president Clem Chartier, Manitoba president David Chartrand and B.C. president Bruce Dumont as well as local politicians, early residents of the nearby communities and so forth.

Folks were entertained throughout the day by the female vocal ensemble known as Asani, the Kikino Northern Lites Dancers, the Rory Collins band, vocalist Wendy Walker, talented competition singers, musicians and dancers. Visitors were likewise able to treat themselves to various workshops, a petting zoo, a crafters tradeshow, demonstrations of beadwork, fishing, sash weaving, hide tanning, bannock making, etc. 

Overall, a smashing success with somewhere in the neighbourhood of 1,500 to 2,000 visitors and the probability of this being an annual event. Additionally, the Crossing will be available for numerous other events and festivities. With no intent to get political, it may someday even play host to the Métis Nation of Alberta annual assemblies.

Reburial of Six People Plus Additional Bone Fragments at Rossdale
By Terry Lusty

It was a joyous and moving occasion that lent itself to smiles and tears and one huge sigh of relief from hundreds of well-wishers and concerned individuals who fought a long and hard uphill battle to have human remains returned for reburial in Rossdale flats, an area in Edmonton's river valley that runs parallel with the downtown core of the city.

On Sunday, August 28, the remains of six people - five adults and one child, as well as the bone fragments of an untold number of people - that had been unearthed during construction procedures in the river valley and transferred to the University of Alberta and the Medical Examiner's Office were buried in a special, moving ceremony back in the river valley.

The ceremony brought closure for hundreds concerned with the diggings by the city and Epcor-contracted construction crews who unearthed the early remains of some of Edmonton's early inhabitants and Aboriginals whose lives revolved around the early trading posts that dotted the river valley during the 1800s.

While dozens were involved in the process to bring this particular matter to fruition, some of the more prominent players over the past few years were Calvin Bruneau, Philip Coutu, Dwayne Goodstriker, Rocky Wells, members of the Native Seniors Centre and the Edmonton Aboriginal Urban Affairs Committee, numerous Elders from south and central Alberta, various community stakeholders, etc.

The 2:30 p.m. reburial service began with a procession led by traditional drummers Rocky Dumais and Adrian LaChance, Aboriginal RCMP Sgt. Dan Bradford and Cpl. Ed Jobson, a bagpiper, horses and wagons, descendants of the deceased, friends and supporters, visitors, clergymen, civic and provincial political dignitaries and visitors. Among those on foot were some of the descendants carrying eight tiny caskets with four pallbearers to each casket. The procession circled a large grassy area to a platform where select individuals gave speeches about the history of the river valley and people involved in the fur trade as well as the First Nations and Metis who provided so much of the work force and provisions in the early days of Ft. Edmonton.

Elder George Goodstriker Sr. mentioned that all humans are relatives and need to work together. Additional participating Elders were Louie Rain, Mike Rain and Jerry Wood. Edmonton Mayor Mandel said "they're back where they belong, body and spirit." And MLA Pearl Calahasen praised the efforts of the untold numbers who contributed to the project. "You've honoured us today," she stated. "Death knows no colour, no boundaries."
Following the speeches, the procession resumed and made its way further southwest to a spot just outside the Epcor Power Plant where the eight caskets were smudged and prayed over prior to being interred for one last time. All those present were afforded the opportunity to sprinkle the caskets with dirt. Only one individual was observed to do the traditional thing by using tobacco. As is customary, especially in the Aboriginal communities, the burials were followed by a feast open to all those in attendance.
Some parting words were extended by some of the main participants in the deliberations that led up to the event. Calvin Bruneau said there were four stages to this project with three now complete - closure of Rossdale Road, the reburials, a monument and the final stage, he noted, "is to protect this site and make sure this doesn't happen again."

Another descendant, Gerald Delorme, said "this is a great beginning for a lot of people, spiritually and emotionally . . . just the beginning of an understanding for my family . . . a mending."

And Dwayne Goodstriker acknowledged the fulfillment of the city's promise to "see this through." He concluded by saying, "They (the ancestors) are happy."

The city plans to begin construction of a memorial park this fall, complete with a monument that recognizes all those who were buried in the river valley at Rosedale flats. The memorial will consist of a large cross; a wall bearing the names of those buried there, an interpretive area and an outlook of the river.

The Métis in Alberta
Have you visited the Heritage Community Foundation's Métis in Alberta website at www.albertasource.ca/metis? If not, you should.

The website provides an opportunity to learn about the Métis, their unique history, culture, traditions and achievements in a national context. The website themes are The Beginnings, The People and their Communities and Culture and Lifeways.

The Métis in Alberta website features over 175 pages of content and over 500 images, an interactive Métis History timeline, and audio clips from CKUA Radio's Heritage Trails series. Also featured are video excerpts from Summer Wives produced by Alberta Community Development and articles from the Sun Traveller: The Story of the Calihoos in Alberta and the Glenbow Archives' Métis Exhibit Catalogue.

Visit www.albertasource.ca/metis today!


The Helping Hand
Quoyloo Enterprises Inventor and General Consultant has invented a patented vision aid for the visually impaired called the Helping Hand. The inventor, John Leask, is legally blind himself and has endeavored to aid others in becoming more self-sufficient in their daily lives. The Helping Hand is great for crossword puzzles, handcrafts, writing and viewing photos. The smooth flow tabletop allows for ease of reading and hooks to any TV with video inputs. The unit is totally portable and can be taken wherever a person needs it. The cost is $1200 plus GST and shipping and handling fees. For more information call 403-529-2221 or email at quoyloo@shaw.ca .

Métis Woman Celebrates 75 years
By Holdie Capilli

On Saturday, September 3rd, 2005, in Slave Lake, quite a few family and
friends gathered to celebrate 75 years of my grandmother, Joan
Courtoreille¹s life.  It was initially supposed to be a surprise birthday
party, but then again, who better to plan a party but the one it is for?
There was laughter and enjoyment all throughout the evening.

Guests began arriving and a buffet style dinner was served.  Mr. Jimmy
Isadore (Chimiyous) did the supper prayer and also sang a wonderful birthday
song after dinner.  My mother and I, along with my aunts and uncles
contributing photos, put together a beautiful powerpoint presentation
displaying my grandmother¹s life, almost all 75 years of it.  It included
memorable family photos as well as pictures with friends.

The entertainment that evening was Mr. Andy Gladue and band who did an
awesome job.  There was also two special appearances by the Canyon Creek
Stompers and the Soggy Bottom Gals.  Anyone who has ever been to one of our
family functions, know exactly what I¹m talking about.   Overall, the party
was very entertaining and enjoyed by everyone, especially my grandmother,
who never made it home until 2a.m.  It was really great to see her have a
good time. 

 A HUGE thank you to my mom, Holly Alexander, my aunts, Biddy and Joanne,
my uncles Pat, Kim, and Wade for their guidance, contributions and
assistance. Special thanks to Barb Courtoreille, Annette Smith, Dodie
Sawchuk, Jean Delaney, June Courtorielle, Donna Sparks, and countless others
who assisted in ensuring the party was a success.

The Friday Night Concert Showcase brought 4 hours of talent blended with culture in an incredible lineup of entertainment:

• 12 year old fiddling sensation Taressa Bergen from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
• A great vocal performance by Leann Hynd of Milden, Saskatchewan
• An unbelievable cultural experience was enjoyed by all when Silje (16) and Hogne (12) Midtbo-Vevle from Norway gave a performance on the Hardanger fiddles that got a well deserved standing ovation.
• A wonderful warm bluegrass set from Saskatoon’s own – Vic’s Livingroom Bluegrass Group followed next.
• 13 year old Alex Lamoureux from Ontario showed off his Métis background, with an incredible fiddling performance. 
•  10 year old Clayton Linthicum from Glentworth, Saskatchewan - sang, played guitar and banjo and got another well deserved standing ovation.
• And, we wrapped up the evening with a fun and lively performance by “Alex” the folk band from Ontario.
   

The John Arcand and Friends Concert Saturday night was attended by over 900 people and the combined talents of  John Arcand, Calvin Vollrath, Patti Kusturok, Desmond Lagace and the amazing backup of Freddie Pelletier and Trent Bruner, brought the house down, with encores and standing ovations.

The Saturday Night Old Time Dance with Bannock Country – filled with new and larger dance floor and people were swinging their partners until just about 2 a.m.!!! 

Sunday morning’s Gospel Hour again featured Alex the Folk Band and was very well attended.

We had four film companies on site throughout the weekend shooting for documentaries, and got great coverage from the Star Phoenix, CTV, and other local media as well. Hope to see you next year!

 2. Bison have a large hump, a huge head and a short thick neck.

3. Water Buffalo have a droopy neck, are ox-like and have massive swept back horns. India has the largest Water Buffalo population.

Recipe

Note: Do not gather berries until after the first frost and preserve the same day as picked.

Boil 4 cups of berries with 2 1/2 cups of water until the berries are tender.
Force through a sieve to remove seeds.
Add 1 cup of sugar to 2 cups of pulp.
Mix thoroughly and bring to simmer slowly.
Cook for 10 mins.
Bottle.
A layer of sugar sprinkled on the top helps to improve the flavour.