FEBRUARY 2011 VOLUME 14 - NUMBER 2

FREE Pink stick scores for cancer

By John Lagimodiere known as ‘sniper’because of his prowess. Of Eagle Feather News The only thing more important to him Dana Gamble has scored $500 for ana Gamble lives and breathes than hockey is his family. That is why it cancer research. (Photo by John Lagimodiere) hockey. First on the ice and last was so difficult for his mom Rae to tell off the ice every practice, this him that his Aunty Claudette was defenceman with the Peewee Aces is diagnosed with breast cancer. D “I had to tell him and his sister because they heard me crying on the phone,” explained the proud mom during the Aces Peewee Tournament during Hockey Day in Saskatoon. “And the first thing he said was that he wanted a pink hockey stick. I gave him heck for thinking of hockey at a time like this, but then he told me, ‘No mom, I want a breast cancer stick. And I want pink tape too.’ THE DOCTOR LISTENS And that is how it started.” Doctorsshouldspendmoretime Dana showed up at his listening to their patients next game with a pink stick suggestsDr.VeronicaMcKinney. and tape. Worried that his -Page10 teammates would make fun of him, Dana just went out and did what he loves to do DIABETESEPIDEMIC and proceeded to score four PaulHackettsaystheAboriginal goals. community’s lifestyle changes He told his teammates overtheyearshaveledtohealth about his aunty and breast problems. - Page 13 cancer and the response was not what he expected. OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS “They didn’t say A job fair for Aboriginal youth anything ... one followed revealedawiderangeofcareer along and then the rest came opportunities. along. Then other teams - Page 15 followed our example and it kept going,” said the well- SHARING RESOURCES spoken young man of the pink tape phenomenon he Perry Bellegarde continues to started. fightforwhatheseesasafair “I did it to raise share of provincial resource awareness and to help find a revenue. - Page 23 cure for it. I want to be there HE’S A WINNER every step of the way for my aunty. She is a good friend of Theawardsjustkeeppilingup mine.” for Mike Linklater. In this EFN Dana also decided to interviewhesharessomeofhis donate the cash he earns for secrets to success. - Page 20 province started taping their sticks in pink goals and assists, and almost $500 from goals and assists to breast tape courtesy ofAlAndersons Source for his teammates and other donations. cancer research and chal- Sports and the idea just seemed to catch “I am very happy and surprised,” said Welcome to our lenged his teammates to as on. the humble hockey hero. Health & Wellness Issue well. They wholeheartedly Fans showed up in pink. Kids had “I just hope that scientists can find a Coming In March: took up the challenge.At the pink tape on their sticks and helmets. The cure for breast cancer and that my aunty Women’s Issue Aces tournament, other rink was a sea of pink. gets better as soon as possible and that’s CPMA #40027204 teams from around the So far Dana has raised $50 from his it.” 2 Eagle Feather News FEBRUARY 2011 CUMFI, safe housing for struggling families

By John Lagimodiere families in Saskatoon,” Block added. Of Eagle Feather News “Saskatchewan is travelling down a any people lose custody of their new road, one that is marked by strong children due to struggles with and continued growth,” Social Services addictions, mental health issues Minister June Draude said. and other factors like homelessness. In “Economic growth needs to be Morder to help women get their lives back accompanied by innovative partnerships in order and to restore the family unit, the and smart investments in areas like afford- Central Urban Métis Federation (CUMFI) able housing. I want to thank CUMFI for has developed an innovative housing all their hard work and dedication to program. providing help for struggling families Abuilding in Pleasant Hill that was needing to stay together,” she said. once a veritable slum full of drug dealers “The City of Saskatoon is proud to and violence has been totally renovated partner with CUMFI and other levels of as an 11 suite housing centre that offers government in this project by contribut- safe, affordable housing and most impor- ing ten per cent of the total cost,” tantly support for women working to get Saskatoon Mayor Donald Atchison said. their children back from social services. One of the mentors knows the impact The Government of Canada, the Tying the sash to mark the opening of the new apartments are Social Services on these women’s lives will be long Province of Saskatchewan and the City of Minister June Draude, CUMFI President Shirley Isbister, MP Kelly Block and lasting. (Photo by John Lagimodiere) Saskatoon all brought money to the table Saskatoon Mayor Don Atchison. “This is affordable and safe housing, to make it happen. The building and “Because of this place I get my almost everything one needs when you something these women have likely never programs are run by CUMFI. children for a longer time and they get to are starting over. There are also good known,” she said. One resident, who can’t be identified, sleep here. We help each other out lots ... security doors and security cameras on “They move in and we supply every- has moved from very expensive accom- babysitting, going for groceries. We cook each floor. thing from a vacuum to tea towels. They modations to the new apartment and together. We have become a rather tight “Our government is proud to play a just need their clothes. We take them to credits the place with helping her group. role in project partnerships like this one, programming, drive them, and give them reconnect with her two children. “The extra supports help. If we are helping people in need of a hand-up,” said resources. “I get my kids for the whole weekend stressed we can talk with the other girls or Kelly Block, Member of Parliament for “Lots of these girls are dealing with and it is a safe place to bring my children,” with a mentor.” Saskatoon-Rosetown-Biggar. addictions or other circumstances and she said as she prepared to leave with her Each suite has bunk beds for the kids, “These new apartments are making they all want their kids back.And we help mentor to attend a doctor’s appointment. new appliances, kitchen utensils and safe, affordable housing a reality for more them.” FEBRUARY 2011 Eagle Feather News 3 Seeking input from youth

By Andréa Ledding For Eagle Feather News arren Isbister, Urban Aborigi- nal Leadership Co-ordinator for the City of Saskatoon, was busy February 5 preparing for the 4th Wannual youth leadership conference at Wanuskewin, an all-day event from 11 in the morning until 8 at night. Shuttle buses were bringing almost 80 youth from the city at points like Confederation Mall, the YMCA, or Frances Morrison Library, and returning them at the end of the day. “We wanted to see youth get more involved in community events and lead- Tennille Bear and Warren Isbister are two young leaders in the community. Bear is a graduate of SIIT and works at ership opportunities,” said Isbister, adding SaskTel and Isbister is a world class jigging champion and employee of the City of Saskatoon. Isbister is the energy behind that community association positions and the yearly Youth Summits. coaches for younger athletes were just is valued as well as their input and contri- roles in the community, and sharing their youth that they want more opportunities, some of the many opportunities available butions. own personal stories of how they got to so we’re focussed on offering more for youth. “We’re also launching a youth action their own positions of leadership. Not only projects and events like this,” Isbister said, “We want their input in youth network - the first of its kind with the city.” do they serve as examples and mentors noting that the response has been very councils and other community based The youth will be part of a planning but they provide encouragement. positive from all quarters. organizations like the Saskatoon Indian committee and act in an advisory capacity, Isbister says the event has been This year something very special was and Métis Friendship Centre.” as a resource for city council. growing steadily every year. in the works for the closing ceremonies, Isbister added that youth need that “They’ll act as a voice and sounding “Our first year we started out with 12 where various youth do performances, extra bit of encouragement and inspira- board to issues affecting youth in the city youth – that was four years ago and it’s such as a young group of breakdancers tion to think more outside the box while of Saskatoon – to bring those kinds of been picking up every year.” from Mount Royal who were slated to be building their leadership capacities. issues to light, and for our city councillors Two major sponsors of the event performing. “We’re building that capacity for the to access.” include UrbanAboriginal Strategy, which “Along with our traditional Aborigi- youth within these organizations that we The day included a variety of leaders is trying to build and maximize the nal dances, and some variations of that, feel have the potential do more and greater and other young people, such as students capacity of urban Aboriginal people, and we’re bringing in East Indian dancers. It’ll things,” he said, explaining that the at First Nations University of Canada, the Saskatoon Tribal Council. be kind of a mini ‘dancing with the inclusion, vision, and energy of the youth talking to the youth about their current “We’ve heard loud and clear from our Indians’event,” joked Isbister. 4 Eagle Feather News FEBRUARY 2011

Rank Comix Adam Martin

Health is in your hands

ustreadanotherreportonthepreponderanceofdiabetesintheAborig- inal community.Then another one on obesity.Then one on tubercu- losis. Then another one on smoking. Turns out we are over repre- sented in all of those categories. JWereally shouldn’t be surprised. Just walk throughthe teensmokers outside of the career fair or school and you can rest assured that some of our future adults already have a good grip on smoking, swilling pop, sucking neck and Type 2 diabetes. Then another article came along and noted that people can control mostoftheirmedicalproblemswithoutdrugsorsurgery.Itiscalledgetting active and watching what you eat. We have seen so many people get lazy and develop diabetes. Then they wake up, they eat better, run, get active and they get back to their healthy old self. Wedetermine our own diet and that of our children. If we eat healthy and are active, you reduce your risk of diabetes, heart disease, stroke and big arse disease. Believe us, there are many benefits in avoiding all of those afflictions. Have some confidence in yourself to eat well, move around and control what goes in your mouth. You would be amazed at how much better you feel when you feel much better. Leaders in big trouble

It is a tough time to be Guy Lonechild or Clarence Papequash. Both Chiefs are under threat of losing their jobs over separate criminal charges theyarefacing.Priortohiselectionin2009,ChiefLonechildwascharged with refusing a breath sample and failure to stop for police. However, the Crown dropped the breath sample charge after Lonechild pleaded guilty to impaired driving.The charge only came to light in early February once there was a request to move the trial to Rosthern. That Lonechild pled guilty to the charge and is taking responsibility for his actions is admirable, but the rumblings we hear going into the weekendbeforetheFSINWinterAssemblydon’tbodewellforhisfuture. Anon-confidence movement was underway as Eagle Feather News VISIT US ONLINE AT went to press. By the time you are reading this, Guy Lonechild will have steppeddownasChiefoftheFederationorhewillbefacingavoteofnon- confidence on February 15 at theAssembly.Some insiders say that since eaglefeathernews.com the FSIN is always under such a microscope, the integrity of the top job must be upheld. And, had they known of the charges before the FSIN election in 2009, Lonechild would not have received their vote. The Senate and several Tribal leaders are taking this very seriously and we may see a Federation Chief publicly forced to resign for the first time in a long time. That’s too bad because Guy is a really likeable and approachable Chief and had showed great leadership over the FNUC debate. Thisincidenthasalsomadealotofpeoplewhogolfandhaveabunch of beers and then drive home take a good look in the mirror and maybe think twice next time. Chief Clarence Papequash of Key First Nation is charged with a bit moreofaheinouscrime.Heand16others,includinghisbrotherClarence Papequash are charged with selling prescription drugs, including Oxycontin.This is following a six month investigation by the RCMPthat was launched due to an increase in violence, suicide and robberies in the Yorkton and Kamsack areas. Chief Papequash denies ever selling anyone any drugs, but even so, somepeoplearecallingforhisresignationwhichisfairenoughwhenyou consider the ill effects that drug dealers have had on our community. He is innocent until proven guilty, but it is not good for appearances to be filmed coming out of court, ever. Ultimately,thecommunityhasarighttoaskthattheirleadersbeopen and accountablebutwehaveto remember that they are justas human and fragile as we are too and sometimes people make mistakes. It’swhat you do after your mistake that shows your true character. FEBRUARY 2011 Eagle Feather News - Health 5 Nokoms had their own stash of medicines

hen I think of health I think of because I believe including the moose and neededthefattokeepushealthybothphysi- childhood, my mom and the thatIshouldatleast otherwildanimals.Moose, callyandmentally. mothers of our community teach my grand- forexample,eatwillowand Recently, while rummaging in an old who worked so hard keeping their childrentheimpor- poplar branches all full of lady’satticIfoundanoldscribblerfullofrecipes Wfamilies healthy.Although we didn’t live tance of growing medicine. They eat water andremedies. far from a town, we were isolated by yourownfood.But plantainanddigdowndeep “Make with love for good health of many factors, two of them being race and Istillhateweeding. inthewatertoeatthewater family,”readsthenoteunderthetitleRecipes poverty. As the plants lilyandroots,bothofwhich andRemedies.Herearesomeofthetreasures True, white people were also poor, matured, they were canned and pickled. areveryimportantingredientsinsomecancer Ifoundinthatscribbler. but not in the way that made them Healthy too, were the buckets of berries we medicines. Bears eat berry and the roots of Saskatoon’sforwinter.Pickanddryberries invisible or suspect of all things no good. childrenpickedwithournokomswhodried manyplantsmakingtheirfat,especially,highly oncanvasspreadoutinthesun.Storeinfloursack But that’s not what I want to remember some of them and canned others as well as prizedbymedicinepeople. andhangindryplaceawayfrommiceandrats. today. I want to remember and honor makingjarsofjamsandjellies.Hoursandhours Wedrankwildrosehipteaeverymorning, DuckEggs,butyoumustnotstealfrom those moms and grandmothers and the spentinthegarden,inthebushandoverahot allwinterlongcauseweneededthevitaminC nestmorethentwiceasduckwillgiveupand things they did to keep us and our stoveinJulyandAugust,untilliterallyhundreds andasIlearnedfrommyaunty,wildrosehips that’snotgood.Testeggsinwaterofslough community healthy. ofjarsoffoodfilledtheshelvesofourcellars. donotlosetheirvitamincontentwithboiling ormuskeg.Ifitfloatsputbackinnest.Ifsinks Our homes were small log houses, They also picked wild herbs and or cooking. This tea washed down the big good. Heat small stones in campfire, make often crowded with extended families medicines, dried them, crushed others into spoonful of cod liver oil we also had to take nest with of hot stones, cover with grass, with no place to live. There was no home- powder and stored them all in cotton bags everymorning.Thiswastheonlystore-bought sprucebranchesorlittlesticks.Layeggson lessness in those days, if someone had no hangingthemontheraftersofthecellar. medicine we ever had and believe me was top.Coverwithmoregrassthensplashwater home they were taken in until the men Although our nokoms did most of the probablythegrosseststuffI’veeverswallowed ongrassandsteamfor10minutes.Verygood could build a log house and the women doctoring,everymotherhadherownstashof inmylifeandtothinkIdidittomychildrentoo. taste and very good for body. put in a garden. Everyone shared their medicinesusedforcroups,coughs,feversand “WhydoIhavetotakeit?”myyoungest Drywildstrawberryrunnersandboilup meager food supplies with the person or anynumberofchildhoodillnesses.Therewere daughteraskedonedayaftergaggingthrough whenyouneedfordiarrhea.Alsoaddcrushed family until the garden was ready. nodrugstoresandthegeneralstorehadvery twospoonfulsandfinallykeepingonedown. dried roots of same for belly trouble. Dried Thosegardenswereoftenanacreinsize littleinthewayofmedicine.Eveniftheydid, “Soyou’llbehealthy.”Iansweredself- raspberry leaves may also be added but not and it was not uncommon for a family to noonehadthemoneytopurchasethem. righteously.“Andsoyou’llhavegoodstories have to. Dried and powdered strawberry have two of them.Working from sun-up to Ourdrugstorewashalfamileuptheroad totellyourkids.” plantsareverygoodforbaby’sbumrash. sundowneveryspring,thewomenprepared inameadowcalledOmisimawPuskiwa(oldest My husband laughed wiping her face. For those of you who may be dealing these plots for planting. Cultivating and sisterprairie)whereyarrow,plantain,wildroses, Noneofmygrandchildreneverhadtodrink with head lice this works good.Apply coal raking the soil, they made sure the ground fireweed,asters,nettlesandpigweedcouldbe cod liver oil. They ate Flintstone vitamins oil to hair then put on a tight fitting hat over was smooth and clean of old weeds. foundingreatabundance.Someofitwasjust insteadbuttheyhaveallbeentoldthestoryof night,washhairinmorning.Nextnightapply Then, after soaking the seeds in water, medicineandsomeofitlikefireweed,nettles nokom’smedicine. vinegartohairlineanddonanothertighthat. most of which were from last year’s crop, andpigweedwasmedicineandfood. Ialsorememberhavingtoeatapieceof Inthemorning,removenitswithfine-tooth the garden was planted with the help of “Never mind, just drink it you need smokeddriedmoose,bearorbeaverfatevery comb,nitsshouldjustcomeoff. everychildthatcouldwalkandthesummer the medicine,” was Mom’s mantra as she morning.Withabitofsaltitwasnotasbadas Last note in scribbler says.” Thank the spent putting in the early morning hours as made us eat or drink the wild things she thecodliveroil.Nokomsaiditwastoprevent goodgodeachmorningandnightforallyou wellasservingyour“timeout”weedingthe and the nokoms harvested. usfromturningintoaWitigo,whichwasthe have.Laughalotandkissyourchildrenevery garden. Some people love gardening as a Ihavesincecometounderstandthatmost humanturnedcannibalstoryofoldentimes. day.” result of those years. Not me. I do it only everythingweateinthosedayswasmedicinal, Ourdietswereveryleanunliketodayandwe HappyNewYearandgoodhealth. 6 Eagle Feather News FEBRUARY 2011 Stoking the 4res of Métis nationalism

have to say miigwetch to two avid EFN MATTER, in the eyes of the The My inspiration also comes from the readers who commented on my views in Michifnationalist,whattheother judgment of attitude of 93-year-old Joseph Ouellette theDecemberissuewhereIopposedaBill side thinks of the actions of a history and of who was killed at Batoche, and who replied to‘exonerate’Riel.Theygivemeanexcuseto national hero fighting for the theMétispeople when Gabriel Dumont asked him to retreat IcomebackandexplainwhyIsaid“letthestain Michif cause. should not from the advancing troops: “Wait, I only remain” at a Métis National Council confer- Whatmattersisthecollective depend upon want to kill one more Englishman.” ence in Winnipeg years ago, a comment they judgmentoftheMétispeople.Riel microscopic I am inspired by the words of the Métis say has now been adopted by several writers. didtherightthinginopposingthe examinationsof National Anthem, composed by Pierrich Theyhavetheirviewandtheyareentitledtoit Canadiantheftofourlandsand,of legalminutiaeor Falcon on the evening of our victory at Seven and to defend it. I welcome that. course, we can expect the other side not to be the parsing of words and the counting of their OaksinRedRiverterritoryinJune1816.Asa The writers, who identify themselves as happy about it and to use whatever means frequencyofuse,oruponhigh-mindeddebates descendant of ‘Bostonnais’Pangman, one of Métisauthorsandpublicspeakersbythename availabletocountertheMétisdefence. about synonyms. It should depend upon the thechiefsoftheMétiswhowipedoutGovernor of Goulet, fall into a common error.The error The Goulets’ main argument leans on robust collective judgment of the people: vox Simpsonandhismotleycrew,Iaminspiredby confuses Riel as a Métis hero and legendary another slender reed. They say there was an populi,voxdei.TheGouletsmightagreethatthe Falcon’s words which describe the English figurewithRielasaperson;asaprivateindivid- error of law at Riel’s trial. The conclusion voiceofthepeopleisthevoiceofGod,forthey ‘whoareheretostealourhomeland’,stumbling ual.ThustheGouletwriterstrytosupporttheir follows that the error must be corrected, as callinaidoftheirargumentthefactthattheyhave away with the Métis after them. plea for an exoneration with the false analogy errorsshouldbe.Riel’scasewasappealedand metmany“grassroots”Métispeoplewhosupport These are the same words that inspired withpeoplewronglyconvictedof crimessuch upheld in the highest court for Canada at the theexonerationofRiel. the Métis troops who sang them at Fish astheMilgaardsandtheMarshalls.Rieltheindi- time; the Judicial Committee of the Privy Fine.InreplyIofferthesourcesofmyown Creek and may have inspired old Joseph vidualisdeadandanexonerationwillnotallow CouncilinEngland.Thelawisdecidedbythe bias on the issue, for I have not conducted any Ouellette at Batoche. himthepersonalfreedomandcompensationthe decisionsofthecourtsandnotbytheopinions interviews or researches on Métis people’s TheGouletsandsomeotherswantjustice MarshallsandMilgaardsdeservedandgot. ofwritersandpublicspeakersandasamatter opinionsaboutRiel.Ispeakonlyformyself. forRiel.Theythinkhisconvictionfortreason TheGoulets’mainargumentleansonthe oflawRiel’sconvictionwascorrect,however I am from St. Laurent, a well-known isanindignitytotheMétispeople.Theywant well-known distinction between a ‘pardon’, immoral or unjust it may have been. Métis community on Lake Manitoba. I am the conviction reversed, not for Riel, who is which is forgiveness for an offence, and an It was immoral and unjust but it was one of 12 children of a Métis trapper and dead,buttomakethesepeopletodayfeelbetter ‘exoneration’which means to declare one to politically expedient for the government of fisherman who also dug snake-root (Seneca about themselves. They are inspired by be‘freefromguilt’.Theyarguethatthecharge the day. The relationship between the law root) and, after the trapping economy went modern standards like human rights, which againstRielwasincorrectinlawandtherefore and public morality has been and continues sour in the mid-‘50s, turned to carpentry. have deep historical roots but were only soweretheconvictionandtheexecution.That to be a debate that will never end. When I was growing up and living invented after the Second Word War. They leadstothecallfortheremedyofanexonera- Butdoesanyofthistechnicaldebatematter there until the late ‘60s we were quite self- supportBillsofexonerationthatrevisethefacts tion. In making their argument the Goulets totheMétisnationalist?MustthestainofRiel’s sufficient, like pretty well all Métis commu- of history to make them fit modern ideas. thought it important to point out that in my executionbewipedoutbypoliticalactsoftoday’s nities in our Western homeland then. This Theviewsofthespirituallyself-sufficient comment I had used the word ‘pardon’ six governmentrepresentatives,orshouldRieltake was before the setting in of the welfare state Métisnationalist,ontheotherhand,areinspired times and the word ‘exonerate’only once. his place of honour amongst the many who and the doling out of ‘rocking-chair money’ not from elegant legal analysis but from deep Iamwellawareofthedistinctionbetween fought,butinvainandlosttheirlives,forthecause as Hank Williams calls it. sources within ourselves; from the stories and theseterms.Inmyviewthetermscanbeused oftheirpeople?Onemightdaretohopethatthe The inspiration for my views includes songs of the family homes.Within the glow of interchangeably,alongwithothersimilarterms Métis nation today has sufficient spiritual self- the gleam in my father’s eyes when he thefiresofMétisnationalism,Riel,theprophet andexpressionssuchas‘excuse’,‘remission’, sufficiency and collective confidence to feel recounted what Gabriel Dumont told the of Métis nationalism, continues to live and to ‘indulgence’,‘apology’,‘releasefrom’‘declare secureinthejudgmentofourownpeopleabout messenger to tell General Middleton when inspireself-confidenceandstrength.ThisRielis innocent’, ‘vacate the conviction’and so on. Riel and not feel compelled to go simpering to hewasleavingBatoche:“TellMiddletonthat in no need of rehabilitation, especially by the The reason is that in my view ITDOES NOT Ottawa seeking political bromides or psycho- I am still in the woods. Tell him that I still descendants of those who have successfully logicalhandoutsfrompoliticians. have 90 cartridges to use on his men.” submergedthecauseforwhichhedied. FEBRUARY 2011 Eagle Feather News - Health 7 PotashCorp comes up big for food banks

By John Lagimodiere better time for a huge donation by one of and CEO of PotashCorp, stressed the “Those Of Eagle Feather News the world’s largest companies, one that importance of food in helping people and of us in or many families, the toughest times helps grow food as its core business. whole communities. northern and of the year are immediately Potash Corporation of Saskatchewan “People cannot build healthy lives, or Aboriginal following Christmas. Bills have Inc. (PotashCorp) announced a $1 million stronger communities, when they are communities piled up and the cupboards often go bare. contribution to Saskatchewan food banks hungry,” said Doyle. see the need F “When we help our neighbours meet every day,” said Trudy Connor, board their basic food needs, we feed hope, member for the Lac La Ronge Food Bank, change, and the opportunity to improve who thanked PotashCorp on behalf of the their lives.” hundreds who use its services annually. PotashCorp’s gift will be used imme- Saskatchewan’s two largest food diately to restock the shelves of 19 food banks echoed her thanks. banks across the province and nine affili- “We’re delighted to receive Potash- ated locations. Corp’s support,” said Paul Merriman, According to the most recent statis- CEO of the Saskatoon Food Bank and tics collected by Food Banks Learning Centre, which will receive about Saskatchewan, more than 22,600 individ- $425,000 of the total. uals visited food banks in Saskatchewan “The impact and value of this during March 2010, an increase of 20 per donation to us, and the people we serve, is cent from the same month in 2009. immeasurable and we are truly grateful,” “The trend points to increasing said Merriman. demand for our services,” explained Bill “This donation couldn't have come at Hall, Executive Director of Food Banks a better time,” explained Wayne Hellquist, Saskatchewan, which conducts its annual CEO of the Regina Food Bank, which will survey of food bank use in March. receive approximately $294,000 from the PotashCorp President and CEO Bill Doyle says the $1 million gift from the “The need for healthy, nutritious food PotashCorp donation. (Photo by John Lagimodiere) company is intended to help people build healthy lives. continues to grow which is why we are so “Usually, we see a slowdown in This leads to an increase in demand at the to purchase food for individuals and thankful for PotashCorp’s support. From donations after the holidays. This will food banks of Saskatchewan, often leaving families in need. Speaking from the Lac La Ronge to Moosomin, the impact ensure that our shelves are stocked with them with bare cupboards as well. warehouse of the Saskatoon Food Bank of this gift will be felt province-wide,” vital food supplies for people who need With that in mind, there could be no and Learning Centre, Bill Doyle, President Hall said. them.” 8 Eagle Feather News - Health FEBRUARY 2011 Teenage Zone a healthy exercise in listening

e are all on this journey of book this play they are dealing great deal of your weight around your self-discovery whether we would make a good with in their lives waist you are at increase risk of Type 2 are 16 or 60. We have this introduction to a since not all diabetes. If you smoke, your risk of heart need to define who we are and where we chapter dedicated to students have disease increases, lack of exercise and Wfit into this world. teenagers. I felt parents or poor diet also play a major factor. I recently attend a play called The lucky, sad, angry guardians who take Scary statistics for First Nations as Teenage Zone: Behind the Smile. The and scared. The play active rolls in their many are overweight smokers (I include production from start to finish was done was a roller coaster children’s lives. myself in this category). solely by the drama students of Miller of emotions but Sure wish we had There are websites dedicated to heart High school in Regina. The audience was that’s the life of a teenager. drama programs in the reserve schools. health, magazines and free information given a glimpse into the lives of the youth Chyanne Poorman-Favel from the I was so pumped when I left the at health clinic and pharmacies. that was so powerful and intimate it was Kawacatoose First Nation was one of theatre and can’t wait to see what they do Remember that you are responsible for like reading a page from their diaries. about 20 students in the production. next. your health so educate yourself about Depression, bullying, peer pressure, Chyanne said that it was exciting and There are so many people dealing your disease and follow the advice given body image, family dysfunction and nerve racking to be a participant in the with depression and suicidal thoughts. If by the experts. addictions are only a few of the topics the play. you or someone you know is having Easier said than done believe me. I youth brought to life on the stage. I have been on a diet for at least 30 years believe that everyone in the audience was and haven’t lost a pound – tapwe! able to empathize because we have all There is help out there and it can come On the lighter side, I asked a couple had to pass through that phase of our of reserve men what kind of flowers they lives – from young adult to adult. in the way of a play! buy their ladies on Valentines Day – they Parents in the audience were so “It was very hard talking about some problems with depression tell someone said Robin Hood! Ever sick! As long as fortunate so see this production. They of the things plus there was a lot of or call the suicide hotline in your area. we don’t see any heart shaped hickeys it can take what they learned to their homes emotion in the content of the play.” There is help out there and it can come will be fine. and discuss the issues with their children The students did a bang-up job and in the way of a play! Thank you for your letters and and listen to what the kids have to say – being in that theatre and hearing what February is Heart and Stroke Month emails.You can write to me at Sandee just listen. these young people had to say was and a good time to focus on your heart Sez C/O Eagle Feather News P.O. Box I have often heard parents say that powerful. health. If you are diabetic, your risk of 924 Saskatoon SK S7M 3M4. they wish their children had come with Drama programs in school offer the developing heart disease is higher. Or, if you like, you can email me at an instruction book. If there was such a students a venue to discuss the issues If you’re overweight and carry a [email protected] Smoking is a deadly habit

By Flo Lavallee meat to neutralize and clear the blood of For Eagle Feather News nicotinicacidandtofortifythebloodsugar. obaccoisoneofthemostimportant Inmyopinion,thefirstingredientyou herbsusedinsacredceremoniesfor taste in tobacco is sugar as it is a plant. FirstNationsandaboriginalpeople. Includelotsofvegetables.Addmagnesium Itcanhavebothpositiveandnegativeeffect. rich foods like dark leafy vegetables TWhen used improperly,such as when broccoli, cucumbers, celery, and whole it is smoked in cigarettes, or otherwise grains such as brown rice and wild rice. ingested in a commercial form, tobacco is Salads made with leaf lettuce decrease the a deadly killer. desire for tobacco.Avoid junk foods and Each cigarette takes eight minutes off sugar as these aggravate cravings. your life, a pack takes one month off your Chocolatecontainscaffeineandsugarwill life each year, and two packs take 12-15 affect cravings as well. Drinking green tea years off your life. Cigarettes have over daily will reduce any toxin poisons. 4,000knownpoisons,anyofwhichcankill To calm the nerves Magnesium and in high doses. One drop of pure nicotine VitaminBComplexwillreleasethetension. acid can kill a man. Depending on the age If you don’t stop smoking – emotional that you quit, your life expectancy can reasons-stress,emotionalinsecurity,hypo- increase from two to five years. glycemia,dietarydeficiencies,andnicotine Second hand or passive smoke is now addiction are the result. thethirdleadingcauseofpreventabledeath. Commonsymptoms-ChronicBron- In women, passive smoke reduces fertility, chitis,constanthackingcough,shortnessof successful pregnancies, and normal birth breath, respiratory infection. Emphysema weightinbabies.Itincreasestheinstanceof anddrylungs.Eventuallungcancer,adrenal cervical,uterineandlungcancer,heartdisease exhaustion and fatique, poor circulation andosteteoporosisinwomenandmen. affecting vision, high blood pressure, Don’tbediscouraged.Quittingishard premature aging, and dry skin with poor work, but it gets easier every day, as the colorandelasticity.Smokedecreasesblood body looses its dependency on nicotine. flow to the skin. Osteoporosis, low There must be a lifestyle change for immunity. permanent success against smoking. Start The cost of smoking is millions of bydrinkinglotsofwater.Eatmorefruitand dollars in medical expenses.And maybe vegetables, chicken, fish, turkey, lean red your life. FEBRUARY 2011 Eagle Feather News - Health 9 10 Eagle Feather News - Health FEBRUARY 2011 Listening key to healing

By Darla Read After working in British Columbia, For Eagle Feather News McKinney is now back in Saskatoon as the r. Veronica McKinney was surrounded new director of Northern Medical Services, by and has been interested in medicine and she has many goals in mind for her new since she was a little girl. position. “When I was seven or eight, I found a book Before returning, she ran the University of Dabout the human body, and I fell in love,” says British Columbia’s Aboriginal Residency McKinney, smiling as she recalls the discovery. Program, and she would like to set up It made her want to become a doctor. something similar here. She developed curricu- Born in Saskatoon, her family has ties to lum for Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal the Sweet Grass and Waterhen First Nations, residents to learn about the historical context and her mother shared what she learned from in which Aboriginal people live. her own mother, who was a midwife and “I brought a homeless lady in to talk about medicine woman. how she got there,” she explains. “The next McKinney says growing up she didn’t month we might go out with an Elder to collect have a lot of confidence, her family was poor, traditional medicines. and she faced racism. She remembers there “It was more about the teachings the Elder were certain children she couldn’t play with or would give, not becoming a traditional healer.” she wasn’t allowed in certain people’s homes. McKinney thinks something similar could “(But) no matter what was going on, I work out of La Ronge and Ile-a-la-Crosse. She could always go back to books.” says doctors going into the province’s North After graduating high school, McKinney need to understand where people are coming went to university but says she struggled. She from. came across a lab tech course she could take at “For the people themselves, they’ve been SIAST and decided to switch gears. raped of their culture,” she says. “There’s a lot “When working as a lab tech, I discovered of colonization still going on, and most docs people just wanted to talk.” who go in don’t know the history because That fuelled McKinney’s desire to go back many come from SouthAfrica.” to school, this time into nursing, so she could She says when providing health care, talk to people and help them. doctors have to be sensitive and aware. Plus, she says the nursing process was “It’s about relationships. I can’t really be similar to the medicine wheel, so she could a healer until that person comes to me and identify with it. wants to be healed. McKinney decided to go for her dream of “The strongest healing I can do is to hear medicine, but was worried she wouldn’t be people out and listen.” accepted – even though she had an 87 per cent She says curriculum needs to be about average in nursing. more than just the technical skills required to She was accepted and completed medical be a doctor. school and her residency at the University of “You can learn how to sew somebody up Dr.Veronica McKinney says doctors have to be sensitive and aware. Saskatchewan. fairly easily. The other stuff isn’t so easy.” FEBRUARY 2011 Eagle Feather News - Health 11 12 Eagle Feather News - Health FEBRUARY 2011 Immunization vital FNUC helping students enter for disease control health care 4eld By Moira McKinnon Greeks in 412BC tell us that influenza For Eagle Feather News pandemics occur regularly every 30 to 40 he First Nation University of Canada has announced the delivery hegripofwinterandinfluenzaseem years. They spread world wide but differ in of the Pre- Health Studies program to go hand in hand. You may have the severity of the disease they cause. Most through Northern Campus. been hearing reports of larger people today will experience another The Pre- Health Studies program is a numbersofinfluenzacasesinOntariobeing pandemic in their lifetime. T partnership between the University of referred to as a “flunami”. In April 2009, Mexico informed the T Regina Faculties Of Kinesiology & Health Last year the world experienced the WorldHealthOrganizationthatitshospitals Studies, and Arts, and the First Nations H1N1 pandemic; this year the seasonal were full of people with influenza and University of Canada. influenza viruses have returned. Every year pneumonia.Theviruswasidentifiedasanew Students enrolled in the Pre-Health several influenza virus strains circulate the influenza virus, H1N1, a mixture of bird, Studies program through Northern Campus world. Most change slightly over time and human and pig influenza viruses. can use the first year of courses to apply to some strains become more numerous than The world needed to react quickly on the Bachelor of Health Studies Degree others. Six months before winter scientists very little information, as it takes several Program, to the Bachelor ofArts Degree gettogethertolookatthepatternsofinfluenza months for a vaccine to be produced. Program, to the Kinesiology Degree strainanddeterminewhatthreestrainsshould After some weeks it became clear that Program in Regina, or the U of S or U of beintheannualseasonalvaccine.Mostyears formostpeopletheviruswasgoingtocause R/SIAST nursing programs for fall 2012. it is a good match for all three strains. only mild illness. Most people over the age As health-issues continue to dominate The body reacts to influenza by sending of 55 years were spared. It is likely that a public policy choices, this program will itsprotectorcellstotheairwaysandthelungs. significant part of H1N1 or a sufficiently prepare students with the first year of Thismakesthelungliningthickandthelungs similar virus was here over fifty years ago electives to eventually meet many of the andhearthavetoworkhardertobreathe.This andatthetimegavepeopleanimmunitythat health care needs facing Saskatchewan and addedstraincancauseseveresicknessinyoung protected them in 2009. Canada. andoldpeople, TheH1N1virusdidaffectsomehealthy Brandi Nicolas is a student interest- Applications will be accepted until and in those young people, many of these spent long ed in a health career. March 31, 2011. with chronic weeksinintensivecare.Thenumbersilland conditions. hospitalized indicated young children and That is why pregnantwomenweremorevulnerablethan thesegroupsof others to severe illness.As in 1918, indige- people are nous people were more likely to get severe encouraged to disease. gettheseasonal In Saskatchewan the vaccination vaccine. program began in earnest in the North on How October 26. That first week there were five many people people with influenza-related illness die each year evacuated by air. No further cases of signif- from seasonal icantillnessfromH1N1intheNorthoccurred DR. MOIRA McKINNON influenza?The fromthatdate.BymidDecember50percent Centers for of the Saskatchewan population was vacci- Disease Control in the USAbelieve 3,000- nated and the virus had disappeared. There 4,000 people a year die directly from weresimplynotenoughnon-immunepeople influenza in the USAand another 40,000 - to spread it. 50,000are‘tippedover’bythestresstotheir Thestorydidchangedaytodayasmore other condition or die from secondary was discovered about the virus, who it was pneumonia. It is estimated in Canada that affecting, and how severely. Many people there are 4,000 – 8,000 influenza associated spentlonghoursexaminingthedataandthe deaths every year. processestoensurethatthevaccine,produced Sometimesasuddenchangemayoccur soquickly,wouldbesafe. Thecalmnessand in the genetic makeup of an influenza virus, patienceofSaskatchewanresidentsplayeda so much so that the immune system of a key role in the effectiveness of our entire human no longer recognizes it as a virus it pandemic response. should know.This is when a pandemic may There are many,many lessons from the occur. 2009experiencewhichwillhelpCanadaand Ahealthy person may react very differ- alsotheglobalcommunitytorespondtoboth ently to a novel virus. In some the immune seasonal and pandemic influenza in the system goes into hyperdrive against the future. And as always, the best ways to unknown invader. It overreacts. It sends so preventthespreadofinfectioncontinuetobe manyprotectorcellstothelungsthatthelungs handwashing, coughing into your sleeve, become very soggy with inflammation and staying home when ill, and getting it becomes impossible to breathe. This immunized. happened in the SARS pandemic and the Forwhatyoucandothisseasonandfor 1918 influenza pandemic. more information on influenza visit the The 1918 influenza pandemic killed Health website at more people in six months then the total of www.health.gov.sk.ca/influenza-flu thetwoworldwars.Mostwereyoungadults. Dr.Moira McKinnon is Stories and records dating back from the Saskatchewan’schief medical officer. FEBRUARY 2011 Eagle Feather News - Health 13 Lifestyle at the root of diabetes epidemic

By Michael Bell ways.Lesshuntingmeantalessactivelifestyle.From1945,the For Eagle Feather News governmentbegantoissuepaymentsubsidies,whichincreased t’s an incredible fact: a First Nations person in Canada the purchase of unhealthy,processed, store bought food.The is three to five times more likely to have Type 2 net result was an enormous transition in lifestyle: families diabetes than Canadians in general. continued to consume high amounts of calories but no longer The disease, which left unmanaged, can lead to heart hadtheactivelifestyletoburnoffthatenergy. Idisease, kidney problems, nerve damage or blindness, is an Thestudyisnotyetpublished,butearlyindicationssuggest epidemic among First Nation communities in Saskatchewan thatobesitywasabsentfromFirstNationcommunitiesbetween andManitoba.Insomecommunities,healthresearcherssaythe 1930 and 1950. The emergence of diabetes also appears rate of diabetes can be as high as 250 cases per 1,000 people, connected to the lifestyle transition which was imposed by muchhigherthanthegeneralpopulationsofthesetwoprovinces. governments,missionariesandthesubsequentdeclineintradi- But it might surprise you even more to learn that only tionalhuntingpractices. 60 years ago, diabetes didn’t even exist among Part of the aim of Hackett’s study was to help explain Saskatchewan and Manitoba First Nations. the “relative significance of cultural, environmental and The finding is part of an ongoing study led by geog- genetic factors in the apparent susceptibility of First rapher and associate professor Paul Hackett of the Nations people to diabetes.” Current diabetes research University of Saskatchewan. His team set out in 2007 to in the field of genetics says that First Nations people may better understand the historical context of the rise of Type be at a higher risk of contracting the disease. 2 diabetes in First Nations communities. The researchers While not discounting the role genetics may play in studied the archival records of residential schools, diabetes in First Nation communities, Hackett believes churches, and the Hudson’s Bay Company. Since obesity lifestyle is more significant. Historically, the genetic is strongly correlated with diabetes (80 to 90 per cent), argument was also used to explain the presence of tuber- Paul Hackett led a study that found that 60 years ago Hackett was able to calculate the body mass index of culosis, smallpox and measles, he said. diabetes didn’t exist in the First Nations community. some residential school students. In other cases, photo- “(For some researchers genetics) seems to be the go (Photo University of Saskatchewan graphic evidence was useful. to argument for trying to justify excess mortality and “Whenyouputitalltogether,whatIgetisapictureofrapid morbidity, without pointing to some of the more obvious Thefundingwillhelpadvancediabetesresearchandfurtherthe andinsomecasesdisastrousculturechange,”Hackettsays. things,” Hackett said. Unit’s goal of reducing health inequalities in Innortherncommunities,FirstNationshuntedonaseasonal Hackett is as a member of the Saskatchewan Population Saskatchewan’s most vulnerable populations. cycle. Fishing, trapping, hunting and gathering involved the Health and Evaluation Research Unit, a joint research unit of Hackett says his study helps educate people about wholefamily:dietswerehealthyandeveryone’sactivitylevels the Universities of Regina and Saskatchewan. The unit the roots of diabetes and more importantly where things werehigh,Hackettsaid.Butthegovernmentandthechurches announced a three-year $750,000 research grant from the might end up again if society isn’t vigilant about the convincedpeopletosettleonreservesandabandontraditional Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation in January 2011. conditions that effect a community’s health. 14 Eagle Feather News FEBRUARY 2011 Af4nity Credit Union, Saskatoon team up to facilitate more affordable housing

By John Lagimodiere working individuals and families to Of Eagle Feather News purchase a dwelling for homeownership. first of its kind affordable Currently, Saskatoon has some of the housing program was recently highest housing costs in the nation leaving announced in Saskatoon. The many first time homebuyers without suffi- Equity Building Program, as it is known, cient down payments to get a mortgage. Ais a joint venture between the City of Supporting 250 households over a five Saskatoon and Affinity Credit Union. year period, the program will allow Mayor DonAtchison and Mark Lane, eligible households to purchase a home Chief Operating Officer ofAffinity Credit (includes all forms of housing in any part Union, celebrated the launch of the inno- of the city) ranging in value from vative new housing program at an event $220,000 to $280,000. The program will on the third floor ofAffinity’s flagship assist the homeowner with the down branch in downtown Saskatoon. The payment requirement by providing assis- Mark Lane, Chief Operating Officer ofAffinity Credit Union and Paul Gauthier, the City of Equity Building Program will assist low tance of approximately $12,000 per unit. Saskatoon’s general manager of community services discuss the new Equity Building Program to moderate income households in The $12,000 is absorbed into the monthly for affordable housing. (Photo by John Lagimodiere) mortgage payment and paid back in full. moving from rental accommodations to invest in the Equity Building Program to money from its existing investment “I assume we will provide more than home ownership. help people with modest incomes become portfolio to facilitate the program. The the 50 homes a year that we have Recent statistics indicate that many homeowners in a time of rising house program is self-financing to avoid budgeted for,” said Affinity Chief moderate income (household income prices,” saidAtchison who has become resource conflicts with existing programs Operating Officer Mark Lane. between $44,500 and $70,000) house- an avid supporter of housing programs. or additional support by city property “And I say that judging by our holds in Saskatoon are now dedicating 40 “Council passed this motion unani- taxpayers. previous housing programs and the per cent of their pre-tax household income mously and it will be a positive program “We are delighted to create more demand we have had for this program towards shelter costs. This is approxi- for all of us.This is a first of its kind in accessible homeownership opportunities since it was announced just yesterday.” mately eight per cent higher than the Canada so we have to thank council, the for our members. Affinity Credit Union has long been standard permitted by private lending city staff andAffinity Credit Union for “Community investment is one of the a leader in unique and affordable housing institutions. their hard work in pulling this together.” socially responsible ways we do business programs and has many community The program is designed to allow To support the program, the City of and together with the City we are partners that know the value of having eligible applicants to access market Saskatoon will invest $3 million with the contributing to stronger, healthier families in houses that they own. financing from a private lending institu- Affinity Credit Union. The city is using communities,” added Lane. tion, and to target moderate-income “The City of Saskatoon is pleased to FEBRUARY 2011 Eagle Feather News - Careers 15 THE FUTURE IS YOURS The Future is Yours Opportunity Fair kept Saskatoon’s Prairie Land Park bustling on a cold February day with over 600Aboriginal youth and over 60 exhibitors swapping infor- mation about present and future employment. The career fair, a partnership between the Aboriginal Workforce Participation Initiative and the Edwards School of Business was made possible by Gold Sponsor PotashCorp and Silver sponsors including SaskTel, SIGA, Cameco and First Nations Bank of Canada. (Photos by John Lagimodiere of Eagle Feather News)

“We have to be here to show these youth what policing is all about and what it takes to join the police service,” said Sergeant Tony Nadon of the Saskatoon Police Service. “We definitely tell them the minimum requirements to get in, but we also steer them to the SIASTAboriginal Police Prep Program and also to the Treaty 4 Police College. Every bit of training helps.” Desmond Head, Justin Nawakayas, Eldon Head and Robert Whitecap from Red Earth came down for the career fair. The fellas got some applications for jobs and some information on furthering their education. “We were honoured to see all the schools and business that want to hireAboriginal people,” said Whitecap, a life skills worker. “Hopefully people who came here apply and get jobs.”

Marie Peepeetch, second from left, and her friends from the SIIT EducationalAssistant Josephine McKay of the Edwards Program were happy to get so much information and to see so many brown faces. “The day School of Business helps a student was great and we have lots of leads on summer jobs and we have convocation on June 16 so we who may be leaning towards a are excited,” said Peepeetch. “I almost have goose bumps because it is inspiring seeing so many future in big business. brown faces getting out there and looking for work.”

There are lots of opportunities in this province this day. “There are about 6,500 jobs listed on the CanSask employment site every Malissa Joseph,Aboriginal Student Recruiter for SIAST advises day. If people are getting trained properly, they can just walk into a student interested in post secondary training. “I love seeing all a job in this province. The employers are here to tell the students Dasha Thomas from Pelican Lake was wearing Cameco colours theAboriginal students out figuring what they want to do in life,” that,” saidArlene Goulet ofAWPI, one of the partners of the event but figures she wants to follow her cousin into the military after said Joseph. “Even their eyes light up when they see the possibil- commenting on what the over 600 students will benefit from the school. ities and that yes they can do it.” career fair. 16 Eagle Feather News - Careers/Business FEBRUARY 2011 IANE taking it to the next level

By Andréa Ledding I’m sure it might be a different story,” she noted. “Taking For Eagle Feather News it to the next level became our mantra when it came to our he InterprovincialAssociation on Native Employ- leadership panel and to securing keynote speakers for this ment (IANE) is preparing for its annual national event. conference March 8 - 10, with the theme “Taking “Webelieve that we have put together an exciting and it to the Next Level”. comprehensive conference program that will appeal to a TTo be held at the Radisson Hotel in Saskatoon, the wide audience open to everyone with an interest in conference will provide a forum whereAboriginal organ- promotingAboriginal employment.” izations along with governments, industries, and unions One of the workshops features Ann Taylor and John can share best practices on recruitment, retention, and Peter Flett speaking on reconciliation, with a background advancement ofAboriginal people in the workplace. in the “Returning to Spirit” Residential School Reconcil- Some of the featured speakers at the upcoming confer- iation program.They believe that the legacy of IndianResi- enceincludeZaneHansenofSIGA,SeanWillyofCameco, dential Schools has impactedAboriginal people, commu- and Randell Morris of SIIT,while honourary chair is Chief nities, culture, and the entire country – but it can be healed Felix Thomas of the Saskatoon Tribal Council. The main and reconciled in this lifetime one individual at a time. focus is on partnership, leadership, retention, and recruit- Other workshops focus on diversity, inclusion, and ment–includinganassesmentofwhatisandisn’t working, recruiting techniques. evaluating obstacles, examining successful models, and Ahighlight of the event will be keynote speakers Ted diversity in engagingAboriginal leaders. Nolan – known forhis leadership and contributions playing

IANE Saskatoon president Darlene Brander. for an original founding member of IANE) and the Ivan AhenakewAward for businesses who have shown results inAboriginalemploymentinitiatives,inmemoryofanother founder. Only one individual and one business in the entire country are given these awards each year, making them even more significant. “Sinceitsincorporationin1977,IANEhascontributed to the development of an increased awareness of the employment aspirations and capabilities ofAboriginal people within the labour force,” said Brander. The volunteer IANE conference committee spent many hours and lunchtimes pulling together the pieces of the conference. “Throughout the years, IANE has strived to reflect the needs and wants of Aboriginal people towards “We have been in the planning stages for this confer- and coaching in the NHL – and Waneek Horn-Miller, an employment, and to work with organizations to share ence for a long time,” said Darlene Brander, who is current Aboriginal Olympic athlete and sports commentator. information on successful education, training, and president of IANE in Saskatoon. Another feature will be the awards portion for employment programs to encourage the development, “When we decided to bid on the National Conference outstanding individuals (the Bill Hanson Award, named innovation and promotion of Aboriginal employment.” a couple of years ago, it was taken to the National Board for consideration.” BranderaddedthatTheNationalBoardsupportedtheir bid, and so they immediately set plans in place to get the conference going. One of the first discussions surrounded the theme of the conference. “Weknew that we wanted somehow to make that link to the 2006 National IANE conference that the Saskatoon Chapter hosted, and the theme at that time wasTaking Care of Business,” explained Brander. “Reflecting on that theme, we decide that use it as a jumping off point for our new theme.” IANE wanted to focus in on what companies, busi- nesses and organizations are doing now regardingAborig- inal employment. They discussed how on many levels, in many different ways, for many different organizations, companies had evolved their practices regardingAborig- inal employment. “So when chapter member Terry Bird of SaskTel brought forward the idea of “Taking it to the Next Level”, it fit, and said exactly what we wanted to say, and where we wanted to go with this conference,” Brander explained. She added that the strength of IANE has always been the members and their many contributions. Their chapter consists of employees from many different organizations. They all bring different and valuable areas of expertise and knowledge that form a powerful network, so planning this conference has been a testament of the strength, knowledge and networks of this local chapter and all of its members. “Without the support of the member organizations, FEBRUARY 2011 Eagle Feather News - Careers/Business 17 18 Eagle Feather News - Business & Careers FEBRUARY 2011 As if, my phone’s talking Dakota

By Andréa Ledding For Eagle Feather News f you’ve been looking, unsuccessfully, for a cell phone ring tone that is distinctlyAboriginal, look no further. A group of high school students from the Whitecap IDakota First Nation has started up its own business, called Tipi Tones, which features ring tones based on powwow music, well-knownAboriginal artists and other aspects of Aboriginal culture. The students were given this entrepreneurial oppor- tunity thanks to a partners hip between Junior Achieve- ment Saskatchewan, Whitecap Dakota First Nation and First Commercial Brokers, sponsor of the program. Through Tipi Tones, the students have produced and marketed their own unique ring tones. “Most of these ring tones that we have are generally forAboriginals and Indigenous peoples,” explains David The JuniorAchievement Company Tipi Tones is led by, back row Timothy Lewis project coordinator, and has members David Bear Bear, a Grade 12 student who is the company’s president. (President), Justin B, Harley Deschambeault. Front row: Chey Bear, Iesha Parenteau (Human Resources), Alysha Vandevod, Kree “One of the ring tones is counting up to 10 in Dakota, Thomas (VPof Finance). (Photo by Darla Read) the language out here, and we also have counting up to 10 in Cree.” Programs for JAS, says this program has given students school in Whitecap, says the business venture allows There is also a round dance ring tone and one that the chance to learn how to run a business from start to them to do their part in preserving Aboriginal culture. features Kindergarten students singing O Christmas Tree finish. “And what we do (through) promoting Aboriginal in Cree as well as their “nichimoose” ring tone that “Starting up the company, organizing it, full opera- music and language, it keeps our language is alive and features a woman demanding her boyfriend pick up the tions and then liquidating and ending the company at the just to show our language is not going to be gone because phone before she counts to 10. end of a full, fiscal-type cycle. The students have the our language is fading away, and we don’t want that to The group also produced one together with a few of opportunity to target a specific market and sell shares happen,” saysThomas, who is also the company’s Vice- them saying “As if, pick up your phone!” and develop a product or service, and all of the decisions President of IT and Finance. Ainsley Robertson, Director of High School in the company are up to the students.” For your very own Tipi Tone, find the company on Kree Thomas, who is from Mistawasis but goes to Facebook.my phon FEBRUARY 2011 Eagle Feather News - Business & Careers 19 Conference stresses importance of effective communications strategy

The Aboriginal Financial Officers Association of Saskatchewan (AFOA) just hosted Voices from the Past – Looking Back & Moving Forward, a communications conference and workshop. Topics included creating communication plans and strategies, how to handle a TV interview and how to get your message out through the media. Eugene McKay is the executive director and we nabbed him for his view on communications. How do we improve communication in First Nation and Métis communities and organizations in Saskatchewan? McKay: Communication is very important in both communities because effective communication has the power to change the way a community functions and how Eugene McKay says good communications can make the difference between success or failure of any initiative. (Photo by John Lagimodiere) the community is viewed by both internal and external stakeholders.As we all know communication is the way HowcanitimproveyourbusinessorFirstNationeven? conference next year. Seriously, I think any form of a we exchange information, it provides information to the Communication strategies that are well planned, well communication has to be done effectively and above all community, provides feedback from the community and resourced and executed can mean the difference between strategically.AFOASaskatchewan has developed a vision finally it determines how we respond appropriately to the the success or failure of any initiative. Through effective and mission and through a well thought out strategic plan feedback. It is through communication that we can communication members are not in the “dark” on we have effectively managed to create “buy in”. It is identify our audience and communicate our message decisions that are made so fewer assumptions are made through the “buy in” of our members that as an organi- through the best possible means that will provide mean- in the community or organization. zation we continue to grow in Saskatchewan. Whether ingful response. Through the development of communi- What did you come away from the conference with? you are an organization or a community, the way you cation strategies in organizations and communities the I came out with a better appreciation of the different forms create the “buy in” is through communications. This will exchange of information becomes more reciprocal in of communication strategies that are out there. determine whether your community/organization believes nature and both parties exchanging information benefit Got any quick tips for groups that want to improve in its vision or mission. It is the community members or as decisions are made based on a more informed their communication? the members of any organization that in essence drive the audience/stakeholder. # 1 tip Attend AFOA Saskatchewan’s communications organization and without “buy in” what do you have? 20 Eagle Feather News - Careers/Business FEBRUARY 2011 Northern Métis communities doing business

By Darla Read la-Crosse is the largest community with For Eagle Feather News more than 1,300 people, Beauval has 812, ournorthernMétiscommunitiesjoined Jans Bay has 170 people and Cole Bay has forces last month with plans to build 155. businessandwealthintheirregion. Favel believes the group will be more Representatives from Beauval, Cole successful by working together. FBay,Ile-a-la-Crosse and Jans Bay signed a “Collectively, I think we have much business charter for the newly formed more opportunity in terms of securing Primrose Resources Corporation. contracts with businesses and forming part- “The business charter’s purpose is nerships that will allow us to secure work really to set out the terms of reference for and contracts and hopefully bring the how this new corporation will work, how wealth back into our community.” the board of directors will be selected, what The next step for the corporation is to kinds of projects they’re going to consider choose a board of directors, which the CEO for wealth creation,” explainsVern Bachiu, Mayor HaroldAubichon of Cole Bay, Deputy Mayor Elaine Malbeuf of Beauval, Mayor Duane says will be made up of primarily business who is the manager of the Business Ready Favel of Ile a la Crosse and MayorTony Maurice of Jans Bay pose with their copies of the new people with only a couple political figures. Investment Development Gateway business Charter they agreed to. (Photo by John Lagimodiere) From there, Primrose will work with program operated by Westcap Manage- “Thethemethatwemoveforwardwith as the feasibility of a co-operative grocery Business Ready Investment Development ment. The four communities have been is that we no longer want to just survive.We and hardware store and a credit union or Gateway to develop a strategic investment workingwiththeGatewayprograminorder want to thrive.” bank for the region’sroughly 2,500 people. plan. Bachiu says they are already looking to form the Primrose Resources Corpora- The four leaders hope to pursue part- Each community owns 25 per cent of at a number of projects and will likely enter tion and move forward with it. nerships in the oil and gas and mining the corporation regardless of its size. Ile-a- the analysis phase right away. Ile-a-la-Crosse Mayor Duane Favel sectors as well as look into “green” projects says all four communities are very excited such as biomass energy heating, and about the partnership and optimistic it will pelletizing, notes Gene Kimbley, the CEO help generate wealth for their people. of Primrose Resources. “We certainly understand that there’s “We’re in the process of talking to a rich economic opportunities that exist in company now about training some of our northern Saskatchewan,” explains Mayor young people to do environmental moni- Favel. “And, by coming together as four toring.” communities, we hope to take advantage of Thegroupisalsogoingtolookatware- some of those opportunities. housing and expediting possibilities as well FEBRUARY 2011 Eagle Feather News - Careers/Business 21 PotashCorp seeks Aboriginal workers

By Leisha Grebinski has been speaking to First Nations and Métis labour forceina province wherethegrowing For Eagle Feather News leadersaboutpotentialemploymentopportu- labourforceisFirstNationsandMétis.” he world’s largest fertilizer nitieswhichshehopeswillencourageAborig- BellegardesaysPotashCorpwillonlyask producer is taking steps to ensure inalpeopletosubmittheirresumes. anemployeeiftheyareAboriginaliftheyplan the province’s First Nations and InadditiontoonsitejobsatoneogPotash- toassistthecompanyinrecruitmentinitiatives. Métis people are part of its business plan. Corp’sfivemines,thecompanyalsohireslocal “Thatwayitservesapurpose.Otherwise T“We wanted to make sure that First suppliersforvariousservicessuchascarpentry, itendsupbeingdivisive,”shesays. Nations and Métis people were benefit- earthmovement,concretepouring,etc.Belle- As part of its outreach plan, PotashCorp ting,” says Leanne Bellegarde, Potash- gardesaysthereispotentialforPotashCorpto participatedintheSaskatoonTribalCouncil’s Corp’s Director of Aboriginal strategies. partner with Aboriginal people for such career information session atWhite Buffalo PotashCorphiredBellegardeasaconsult- contracts. Youth Lodge. People heard presentations on ant in 2010 to develop anAboriginal strategy BellegardesaysPotashCorpislookingat careeropportunitiesandtheycouldmeetwith PotashCorp’s Leanne Bellegarde. waystotrainFirstNationsandMétispeopleto humanresourceofficersfromthecompany. forthecompany.InAugustthecompanyhired about First Nations and Métis people and compensate for the education gap often “Wehadagoodresponseofresumes,”says Bellegarde permanently so she could see her put some of those myths to rest.” prevalentinAboriginalcommunities. Bellegarde.“It’simportanttomakesureAborig- recommendationsbecomeareality. Overall, Bellegarde says she is InJanuary,PotashCorplaunchedtwopart- inal people are getting into the applicant pool BellegardesaysalthoughPotashCorphad excited to work for a company striving to nershipsthatBellegardesayswillhopefullylead andwe’llcontinuetoseemoreofthoseinitia- made previous efforts to connect with First strengthen itsAboriginal employee base. totrainedemployees.Onepartnership,withthe tives.” NationsandMétisrepresentatives,thecompany “I just really believe there is a lot of SaskatchewanIndianInstituteofTechnology PotashCorp is committed to giving back didnothaveasustainableplanthatcouldmove commitment at PotashCorp to do this inYorkton,istraining12peopletodospecific to the community and Bellegarde says the theireffortsforward. right and to do this sustainably,” she says. workatanearbymine. companyisnowtryingtofindAboriginalorgan- “PotashCorprecognizesSaskatchewanis “It’s very clear, at a senior executive and “Theywillbeofferedopportunitiesatthe izations who might benefit from some of the whereitlivesandworks,”shesays.“Weknow board level, there is a commitment and I Rocanvillemine,”shesays.“Sohopefullythey profits. Forexample,BellegardesaysPotash- there is more to be done to make sure First think that’s very compelling.” Nations and Métis people have opportunities decideminingisforthem.” Corpmadesignificantcontribu- here.” Another program is training 20 people tionstoSaskatoon’sFriendship PotashCorp formally announced its from the PrinceAlbert Grand Council’sFirst InnandtheWhiteBuffaloYouth Aboriginalrecruitmentandretentionstrategies Nationscommunities. Lodge. whenthecompanypromisedtostrengthenits “Out of the successful applicants, those Another component of commitmenttotheprovinceofSaskatchewan whosuccessfullycompletecouldendupatany Bellegarde’s Aboriginal afterahostiletakeoverbidfailedbyAustralian ofoursites,”shesays. strategy is to incorporate mining-giantBHPBiliton. PotashCorphasbeenundercriticismfrom Aboriginal awareness BellegardesaysoneofPotashCorp’stop theFederationofSaskatchewanIndianNations training in the workplace for prioritiesisfindinganewlabourpoolandthe whoclaimthecompanyhasleftFirstNations all levels of employees. logical place to look is within theAboriginal peopleoutoftheboom. “We want to deal with community. “Allcompaniesthatoperateinourtreaty misconceptions that persist “Neverinthehistoryofthecompanyhave territories,theirneedstobecertaintythatFirst weeverhadtoworryaboutrecruitingalabour Nationspeopleareinvolved,”saysChiefGuy force. We are the classic example of a Lonechildwhoisconcernedthatonlyoneper Saskatchewancompanythathasalwayshada centofPotashCorp’semployeesareAborigi- steady supply of folks,” she says. “Five years nal. agowedidn’tevenhaveacampusrecruitment BellegardesaysthenumberofAboriginal strategy.” employees will start to increase, however the PotashCorp has developed recruitment companydoesnotplanondoingaheadcount strategiesasthecompanyisonthebrinkofnew ofFirstNationsandMétisemployees. expansionprojectsandasignificantnumberof “Itdoesn’tseemmeritorioustocount,”she employeeswillberetiring. says.“ThenumbersinSaskatchewanarejust “Let’smakesureAboriginalpeopleknow going to bear themselves out. It really is the aboutthejobsrightnow,”saysBellegarde,who perfectstormofopportunities.Wehavearetiring 22 Eagle Feather News - Careers/Business FEBRUARY 2011 New funding will help Aboriginal students playroleinageconomy

By Andréa Ledding For Eagle Feather News niversity of Saskatchewan College of Agriculture and Bioresources announced newAboriginal initiatives on January 14 at a press confer- ence. Dr. David Natcher has been appointed new assistant dean of Aboriginal programs Uand research, while the Sprott Foundation, a philanthropist trust with a focus on providing recipients with the means to become self-sufficient, donated $1 million to support a proposed post-graduate program forAboriginal students. Don Ross says it’s important that Aboriginal people participate in agriculture. The funding will support program development while also providing bursaries for Aboriginal students. The post-graduate program has been a year in the making, said Natcher, and while developing it they worked closely with the current Indigenous land management course that is already successfully running through the College. Don Ross spoke on behalf of Blaine Favel of One Earth Farms, calling this develop- ment “another important part of thebig picture” since agriculture is the heart of the prairie provinces, and will giveAboriginal people a chance to play a key part in the economy. Natcher said that with his background and the Indigenous land management course at the U of S – which already has 89 graduates so far – it’s clear that the U of S has “a priority inAboriginal land management and studies.” “We want to ensure that what we’re delivering here is relevant to the needs of the community,” said Natcher, adding they’d just found out an additional $2.5 million over the next seven years would also be available to Aboriginal communities and program- ming. “I’m thrilled to be appointed to this position.” He added that seveen scholarships are being awarded this year in the new post- graduate program, with all but one candidate from Saskatchewan, and next year he expects they will run at full capacity with 12 to 15. AnyAboriginal person with a bachelor’s degree is eligible to apply to the program, which will provide them with practical training in agribusiness and land management, so that they can operate inAboriginal communities with the agribusiness sector. Natcher said that it is important to keep the education relevant and flexible, accommodating the schedules of their students, with much of the programming practical and field- based in addition to the more traditional lectures. Their current Indigenous land management program has been a success so far, with unique delivery that allows existing land managers to further their education while FEBRUARY 2011 Eagle Feather News - Careers/Business 23 First Nations press for share of resource revenue

By Leisha Grebinski Lonechild agrees, saying the province has constitu- “Their leaders are negotiating very tough on their For Eagle Feather News tional obligations to First Nations people. behalf to generate opportunity for their people,” says irst Nations leaders are continuing to ask for a “Although the province states the resources are Boyd. “We will continue to do our very best to allow for share of the profits reaped from the province’s exclusive rights of the province when it comes to the and provide for maximum opportunities for First Nations natural resources. resource transfer agreement, that’s not entirely accurate. people. But we have limitations as well.” “This issue hasn’t gone away since First Nations The treaty land entitlement framework and section 35 of Meanwhile, Chief Reginald Bellerose of the Fstarted to raise it in the eighties and nineties and the issue the Canadian constitution says thatAboriginal and treaty Muskowekwan First Nation has signed an agreement isn’t going to go away,” says Guy Lonechild, Chief of rights will be protected under Canada’s constitution and with Vancouver-based Encanto, a potash exploration the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations. the treaty rights to land and resources are specifically company. FSIN has recently upped its bid for an official mentioned in that agreement.” This deal could lead Muskowekwan to own and resource revenue sharing agreement with the province. Bellegarde says both government and industry have operate a potash mine on First Nation land. Lonechild says a potential agreement would a responsibility to ensure First Nations people benefit “The key thing right guarantee jobs and training opportunities forAboriginal from the province’s resources. now is as First Nations people in the resource sector. “The province has to quit issuing licenses to busi- people, we need our own He also wants to see a designated share of resource nesses until they have a plan to deal with recruitment and source of revenue. We revenues to end up in the hands ofAboriginal people and retention ofAboriginal people. There needs to be a direct can’t continually depend he wants government and industry to facilitate First partnership with First Nations people.” on constitution agree- Nation’s ownership of mineral assets. ments with Canada,” he “We feel that since the province has been so “We need to be involved and says. negligent in their respect According to the to consult with First we need to start sharing in this agreement, Nations, there needs to be Muskowewkan would considerations made for resource wealth.” receive three per cent of replaci ng the livelihoods – Perry Bellegarde the profits from a potential of First Nations people in mine. Saskatchewan,” he says. Bellegarde says if government isn’t willing to “We could actually FSIN met with negotiate, he will consider legal action along with other create our own local government officials at Treaty Four chiefs. economy. There will be a PERRY BELLEGARDE the start of the year to “We’ve tried to sit down for years and it’s not lot of spinoffs and infra- discuss a resource working,” he says. “Treaty Four will be looking at which structure needed,” he says. “For example, we’re having revenue sharing law firm and will proceed accordingly.” a hard time attracting doctors because there is no agreement. Lonechild says FSIN is not considering legal action economy. It’s hard to attract business because there is no “I would say that we just yet and instead hopes to continue to discuss possi- economy. This kind of partnership could be the driver have a direct responsibil- bilities with the government. for a local economy.” ity for making sure First He is also looking to other regions to see how First Some members who live off-reserve contacted Nations communities have negotiated resource agree- media to publicly state their concern with the Encanto BILL BOYD Nations people are included in all areas and ments. Lonechild says both Manitoba and Ontario First deal, saying they did not understand the details of the we take that very seriously,” says Energy and Resource Nations are currently negotiating resource revenue agree- agreement. Minister Bill Boyd. ments. Bellerose says Muskowekwan will be holding a He says the government is willing to sit down with “There are many First Nations across the country referendum vote on the mineral rights designation First Nations leaders, but maintains government holds that have demonstrated leadership in negotiating and following band elections on February 28. He says a jurisdiction over the province’s resources. securing agreements with industry or companies,” says public vote must take place before IndianAffairs can “The natural resources of the provincial are under Lonechild. sign off on the agreement. the jurisdiction of the province and I don’t see that changing,” says Boyd who refers to the 1930s transfer agreement which gave Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Alberta control over its natural resources. Boyd says all residents of Saskatchewan benefit from the profits generated by natural resources. “Everyone is a beneficiary because the natural resources generate royalties that are spent on health care, education, and highways. When it comes to revenue sharing, all the people, including First Nations, benefit from it.” But Perry Bellegarde, Chief of Little Black Bear First Nation who has been leading the charge on resource revenue sharing on behalf of Treaty Four Territory, disagrees saying Aboriginal people are not on equal ground. “We need a direct strategy for First Nations people because we are not equal in terms of quality of life. We’re not equal when it comes to income because our average income is below the poverty line. We’re not equal in length of life or quality of life,” he says. Bellegarde also disputes the government’s reference to the 1930s transfer agreement because he says no consent was given by First Nations people in that agreement. “We need to follow the treaties and the principles of peaceful coexistence and share the depth of the plough with the newcomers,” he says. “Weneed to be involved and we need to start sharing in this resource wealth.” 24 Eagle Feather News - Business/Careers FEBRUARY 2011

IMPROVEMENTS AT NORTHERN LIGHTS Aspecial leather cutting ceremony was held recently at the Northern Lights Casino in PrinceAlbert to celebrate the first phase of the casino’s renovation and expansion.“We are making a significant investment to meet the needs of our customers and staff to support the continued growth at Northern Lights Casino,” said Richard Ahenakew, Northern Lights Casino General Manager. “I am happy to be opening the new smoking room, and I look forward to completing the interior renovations in the spring.” The Northern Lights Casino Expansion is a 4,500 square foot addition to the south side of the casino. It holds 203 slot machines. In addition to the casino expansion, major renovations of the existing casino are also underway. These renovations include painting the exterior of the building, new carpet, new interior wall finishes and upgrades to the Starlight Lounge. Once the expansion is open, the existing gaming floor will become smoke free and smoking will only be allowed in the Starlight Lounge and in the new enclosed expansion area. “At SIGA, we are constantly striving to exceed customer expectations,” said Zane Hansen, SIGA President and CEO. “The opening of the expansion is the first phase in providing our customers and staff with a clean air environment. This project is part of our commitment to ensure our patrons and employees are offered the most comfortable and entertaining environment available, including enhanced ventilation systems.” FEBRUARY 2011 Eagle Feather News - Arts & Entertainment 25 Saskatchewan Native Theatre’s Three Little Birds explores life’s journey

By Darla Read For Eagle Feather News The journey of life and fulfillment are explored in Saskatchewan Native Theatre Company’s latest production. Kenneth Williams’Three Little Birds was suggested by Tantoo Cardinal and Gordon Tootoosis, who are acting as interim artistic directors for the theatre company. Cardinal is also acting in the show, along with Ntara Curry and Aaron Shingoose. General managerAlan Long says the production works well for SNTC as it’s a good show with a small cast. “We’re transitioning hopefully in a couple of years into our own theatre, but for the next foreseeable future, we’ll be doing productions in other facilities, and so this fits that area because it’s a smaller play.” Long adds Williams is a bit of a “hot ticket” item as he’s had a lot of productions Ntara Curry. Tantoo Cardinal andAaron Shingoose are the cast of Three Little Birds, SNTC’s recently at Persephone Theatre and notes that people will obviously recognize the most recent professional production. (Photo by John Lagimodiere) names of others connected to the play, such as Lorne Cardinal as director and Tantoo Cardinal. The story is set on a reservation but it’s not a story that is exclusive toAboriginal people, says Long, noting it’s universal. “It’s about your life’s journey and when you get towards the end of the journey, you look back and you reflect. You think, ‘Have I done everything I’ve wanted to do?’” Annie (Cardinal), an elderly woman, is dealing with cancer, forcing her to reflect on her life’s journey and if she has accomplished everything she wanted to. She realizes she’s never become a Kokum and would love to have grandchildren. However, her daughter, Kerry (Curry), has other things on her mind, focusing on her career and concerning herself with her mom’s health. Even though Annie is sick, she reaches out to Troy (Shingoose), a young single father who is a bit desperate. “The story is about her reaching out to a young guy with a baby that she can be a grandmother to and the conflict that that causes because she is fighting cancer and her daughter is concerned about her, so there is an inter- esting three-way dynamic between the ‘three little birds’ in the show,” says Long. Three Little Birds runs March 3 to 13 at the BackStage Stage at the Remai Arts Centre. Tickets are $20. New GM hopes to explore some new ideas at SNTC

lan Long has worked in a variety of roles at SNTC over the past 10 years and took over the position of general manager at the start of the New Year. “I thought maybe I could help them. I do have a lot of Aideas. I thought I could help them see a different way of approaching some of the problems that need to be solved,” Long explained. SNTC is well-known for its Circle of Voices program that educated and empowered youth through acting. However, Long thinks the company has evolved to where there can be profes- sional productions done as mentorship productions “where the professional actors and directors and stage managers and props and technical staff also take on the role as mentors to young people who come and learn as they help produce a production. “There’s been a lot of talk amongst ALAN LONG board members and myself that this mentorship model might be one model we might do. We haven’t dismissed doing the COV program again.All that stuff is up for discussion, though.” Long also wants to reach out to alumni of past SNTC training programs as he says they could potentially help develop programming and also create a membership base. 26 Eagle Feather News - Arts & Entertainment FEBRUARY 2011 Blackstone good, but a little too dramatic for me

confess that most TV shows I watch enhance the plot – and used too much, imbalanced to me. are done strictly online. I have a hard becomes amateurish, like Blair Witch. I know that there are six or seven time committing to specific airtimes Ron E. Scott’s Blackstone is more episodes remaining, and Blackstone with regular programming, so I find it undoubtedly compelling and interesting, is meant to be a drama, but I think that in Imuch more convenient to watch 30 Rock, that’s for sure. I’m sure many people will order to really resonate and connect with Desperate Housewives and Jersey Shore liken characters to their own Chief and viewers the show needs quality down at free sites like Megavideo and mtv.ca. Councils and inter-family rivalries. The time where the nurturing, loving, and humorous sides of reserve life are equally explored. This would not only serve to balance the show, but it would also easily heighten the more dramatic elements by direct contrast. I will tune in again though because I’ll admit, I really do like the ousted Chief Fraser, played by Eric Schweig. He’s defi- nitelymyfavouritecharactersofarbecause he plays a very convincing douchebag. That’s a compliment to his acting! The other cast members like: Nathaniel Arcand, Gordon Tootoosis, MichelleThrush and Roseanne Supernault equally seem well-chosen and I’m looking forward to seeing more of Blackstone, and what develops on this fictional reserve. Tune in to APTN on Tuesdays, check local times – but it will likely be on at 10 p.m. If there’s an artist, entertainer or event that you think I should know about, email me at: [email protected]. Take care until next time! Actor Eric Schweig plays the ousted Chief Fraser in Blackstone. Here he pokes NathanielArcand’s character Victor Merasty in the chest. Columnist Jessica Iron describes the ousted Chief Fraser as a very convincing douche bag. (Photo supplied)

Yes, I watch Jersey Shore. Stop judging timing of its release oddly coincides with me. news coverage of several corrupt and So, when I had to tune in toAPTN dysfunctional chiefs in Saskatchewan, in for Blackstone’s premiere at 10 p.m. on what appears to be life-imitating art ... or Tuesday, January 25, I was a little vice versa. nervous. There are too many cords and Perhaps it is time to expose the buttons connected to my TV for the Wii, realities of many reserves, but as I the DVD player and what is that … a scanned status updates on Facebook after cable box?! the show, it seemed that the storylines I panicked. With my heart thumping were loaded with emotional triggers for wildly at the big techie mess in front of some, while they were wholeheartedly me, I valiantly attempted to figure it out embraced and celebrated by others. all by myself ten minutes beforehand. At certain points I really appreciated Yeah right. Big mistake. the brutal honesty, particularly when the After fidgeting and yelling for new chief, played by Carmen Moore, approximately nine and a half minutes, reminded the band members that they my ten-year-old kid came along and couldn’t blame everything on Ottawa, rescued his mother. Within seconds the and that they had to stop playing victims nerdy-kid-genius had APTN up and and start taking control of their own lives running and I began breathing normally and their band. Her character, Chief once again. Stony, seems capable and intelligent, and The show opened with a wobbly she offers the refreshing promise of scene in the woods where a group of kids change. were getting high. So the drama began. One issue I had with Blackstone was I knew it was going to be a contro- that there weren’t enough ‘soft’moments. versial and raw story, but shaky cameras It was all drama, drama, drama. There give me a headache, so it only made the was a lot of yelling, swearing, drug and opening scene harder to watch. I suspect alcohol abuse, a rape scene and a suicide. the freehand cameras were intentionally Yes I understand that these are all realities used for that effect. However, as the for manyAboriginal people, but I had the episode progressed and even into the privilege of growing up on many reserves second episode, which I watched a week in Saskatchewan and have been lucky to later, the shaky camera continued. I think meet so many wonderful, kind, generous the shaky camera effects distract from the and funny Aboriginals too. story. It’s a gimmicky effect that doesn’t In that respect the show just seemed FEBRUARY 2011 Eagle Feather News - Arts & Entertainment 27 Jim Settee: The Way Home Tour inspiring

“Inspiring, informative, loving, histor- Hisstoryisalsooneofhealingonissues ical, awesome, fantastic, moving, respect, such as the residential school experience, community, wonderful teaching.” – High timber surrender issues, racism, and dislo- school student reviews of Jim Settee: The cation. Way Home ThePrincipalofWestviewCommunity JimSetteewasanoralhistorian,spiritual schoolinPrinceAlbertwritesthat,“Thepres- mentor,andrenownedtracker,whosesearch entation was informative, sincere, and full for a lost boy near Waskesiu takes the of visual storytelling. Our students, from filmmaker into our universal search for Grades 1 to 8, sat for one and a half hours in home, and into values that guide us in life. a respectful manner. They sat focused and As director, Jeanne Corrigal introduces intrigued. Our students do not always sit the film quietly if the presentation is long, so the through the teachers and parents were very impressed. storyofthelost “Something that we took ‘home’from boy. theeventisthatstoryandhistoryisimportant Director Jeanne Corrigal has taken the story of Jim Settee in a new direction. Following the toourjourneyandourstudentswanttoknow screening, she their past.” facilitates Followingthefilm,highschoolstudents reflection on described ‘home’, as “A place where you the themes of have an understanding of who you are.” the film Asked what they were taking ‘home’ inviting from the event, students said “a love and students and respectforothersandnature”and“itmakes JIM SETTEE the general me want to get back to my culture.” audience to Asked how this deepened their under- considerforthemselveswhatpathstheywalk standing,anotherstudentwrote:“tonotjudge andhowtheycancome‘home’intheirown people by their colour. To not judge the lives, and to their own stories. Métis. This video should go to other Settee’sstoryincludescurriculumlinks schools.” in First Nation and Métis Studies, cross DirectorJeanneCorrigalisavailableto cultural connections, environmental cometoanyschoolororganisationtoscreen awareness,familyandcommunitybuilding, thefilm,for$100honorariumperpresenta- intergenerationallearning,kindness,respect, tion. This tour is generously supported by andotherlifevalues.Hewasanoralhistorian the SaskArts Board and the Métis Cultural consulted by First Nation, Métis, Pioneer, Development Fund. The film has screened academic and forestry groups across the to Grades 2 - 12 and into post secondary. province.Asaninspiringlifelonglearner,he Grade 4 and up are the best matches. decided to go to college at 80 years old, and Tobookapresentationorformoreinfor- at 86, he became the oldest man to become mation,pleasecontacttourmanagerLeanne apriestinthehistoryoftheAnglicanChurch. Kadyschuk, at [email protected] PureFe perfect for blues festival

The Saskatoon Blues festival rolls from February 24-27 at venues through- out Saskatoon. Joining the festival this year is PuraFe. Pura Fé’s music celebrates her heritage and legacy combining Aborigi- nal music with traditional blues. She was named by her Puerto Rican father (her name translates as “pure faith”) and raised by her mother from the Tuscarora First Nation from North Carolina. In addition to the blues, Pura Fé is internationally known for her work with the a cappella trio Ulali, and is a part of the Deer Clan Singers who perform Iroquois-based social dance and song. Before taking off for Europe for a string of dates, Pura Fé brings her lap slide guitar and compelling voice for her Saskatoon debut February 25 at the Hilton Garden. 28 Eagle Feather News - Arts & Entertainment FEBRUARY 2011 Saskatchewan Arts Robson proud of success As Presidentof theFirst Nations University Students’Association, Jesse Robson cares about his school. “Thestudentsherearesmart, passionateandstomping onthestereotypes they’ve grown up with,” Robson said. “The executive leadership at our school now,is the Board releases its exact opposite of what it was a year ago.” A new President and a new Board of Governors, has the First Nations University of Canada achieving benchmarks they were not able to a year ago. Robson grew up in Regina. His father was a survivor of the residential school system, but passed new strategic plan away from a drug overdose when Jesse was seventeen years old. “I think about that all the time. I use that as the ollowing a series of consultations and collaboration between the staff and driving-forceforaccomplishingmygoals,”Robsonsaid. with the province’s arts community board of directors of the agency. It has not “Growing up, the Indian kids thought I was white, in 2009 and 2010, the been assigned an end-date, as it is a living and the white kids thought I was Indian. It was tough to SaskatchewanArts Board is pleased to document that will evolve along with the fit in,” he said. Fannounce the release of its new Strategic needs of Saskatchewan’s arts community. As an adult, he’s not worried about fitting in. “Changing technology, tight budgets, “As a kid, I wanted to be the same. Now,I thrive on Plan. JESSE ROBSON “This Strategic Plan continues a new forms of artistic expression; the chal- being an individual. Fitting in is overrated.” tradition established in 1948 of being lenges and opportunities facing the arts Overcoming challenges is part of everybody’s life and he wants his fellow responsive to change in the needs of the sector are numerous,” says David Kyle, students to know that. arts community,” says Byrna Barclay, executive director of the Arts Board. “Getting an education isn’t easy, but I’m the father to an intelligent two-year- chair of the Saskatchewan Arts Board. “This plan articulates the basis on old girl and husband to my beautiful wife, it’s one of the most important things I’ll ever do,” he said. Graduating this spring with a major in Political Science and a double minor of Indigenous Studies and English, Robson looks forward to life after school. Right now, he is going to school full-time and working as a creative writer for a federal Crown corporation. “As First Nations people, it’s not enough to be proud. Wehave to be proud because we are succeeding,” Robson says. “Our children need to see us as role models; they need to know success is in their blood.”

“It speaks to the rich and intertwined which the Arts Board will work with our relationships among artists, arts organi- clients and partners to continue to build zations and the people of Saskatchewan, on the great work of those who have gone the benefits that flow to society from those before us.” connections, and theArts Board’s role in Thefivegoalsarticulatedintheplanare: moving it all forward.” • Saskatchewan artists pursue their creative work and careers in a dynamic, culturally diverse environment. • Saskatchewan arts organizations have the capacity to pursue their mandates and to be viable and sustainable over the course of their existence. • The people of Saskatchewan value the power of the arts as a way of contribut- ing to the quality of their lives and the vibrancy of their communities. • Saskatchewan artists and arts organ- izations are vital contributors to the provincial economy and a healthy society. • The Arts Board leads the way in innovative stewardship of the arts in the province. The Arts Board’s mission is to cultivate an environment in which the arts DAVID KYLE thrive for the benefit of everyone in The plan is rooted in community Saskatchewan. It serves the people of the consultations, provincial legislation (The province through programs and activities Arts Board Act, 1997), the province’s designed to build a strong and vibrant arts cultural policy, Pride of Saskatchewan, sector FEBRUARY 2011 Eagle Feather News 29

FSIN Chief Guy Lonechild has been convicted of impaired driving. However, the Chief says he has been honest about sharing information about his legal troubles with the Federation. He says he made a full disclosure prior to the 2009 election that saw him elected to the top post at the FSIN.

Lonechild guilty of impaired driving

By Delaney Windigo For Eagle Feather News uy Lonechild, Saskatchewan’s top chief, has pleaded guilty to impaired driving. The charges stem from a late night incident in early September 2009, just one month prior to his election to chief of the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations (FSIN). GIn a written apology Lonechild said he was “returning home after a game of golf and drinks with some friends,” when he was stopped by Saskatoon City Police. The traffic stop took place in Saskatoon’s downtown area. Saskatoon City Police spokesperson Alyson Edwards said police attempted to stop Lonechild’s vehicle but Lonechild ignored those attempts. “They (Saskatoon City Police) attempted to conduct a traffic stop involving a half ton truck and when they did attempt to pull that vehicle over the vehicle did not imme- diately stop.” Edwards added, “It (Lonechild’s vehicle) proceeded to cross the Univer- sity Bridge and then stopped on the 1000 block of College Drive.At that time the driver was charged with refusing a breath sample and failure to stop for police,” said Edwards. However, the Crown dropped the breath sample charge after Lonechild pleaded guilty to impaired driving. In an apology Lonechild stated, “I want to acknowl- edge I have made a serious mistake, and I apologize to everyone, especially my family, my colleagues and the First Nations people of Saskatchewan,” adding “I accept full responsibility for my actions of September 3, 2009.” According to Lonechild, the FSIN Credential Committee was aware of his charges during the nomina- tion process. “After the review by the Credential Committee, they determined I was eligible to run and my candidacy was legally valid,” said Lonechild. Although some may question his credibility as Saskatchewan’s top First Nations leader, Lonechild said in a statement, “I wish to reassure you that this incident in no way affects my ability to discharge my responsibilities as Chief of the FSIN.” Lonechild is currently awaiting a March 23 sentenc- ing hearing in Rosthern, located about 60 kilometres north of Saskatoon. Lonechild resides in Saskatoon and it is unclear why his hearing was moved to Rosthern. His lawyer, Darren Winegarden refused comment saying it is not in the best interest of his client. In the meantime, Lonechild does not intend to step down from his duties as chief of the FSIN. “I can assure you that this incident in no way impedes my ability to continue serving you as the chief of the Feder- ation,” said Lonechild. A spokesperson for FSIN said none of the vice-chiefs would comment on this incident. 30 Eagle Feather News - Sports FEBRUARY 2011 Mike Linklater did what it took to win

Mike Linklater is a true home grown hero. guidance, love, and teachings I would not Growing up and playing basketball in the be where I am or who I am today.Then Riversdale neighbourhood of Saskatoon, the list of people who have helped me he avoided the temptations of drugs and with my game, Willie Murdough, Mike alcohol and grew up to be a role model, Tanton, Sean Tyson, Barkley Patterson, national calibre athlete and father of four. Shane Reader, and Scott Ferguson.And I In 2010, he helped lead the University of can’t forget White Buffalo Youth Lodge Saskatchewan Huskies Basketball Team Gym and the countless hours I spent in to their first CIS National Championship. there. Now finished school and working for Did the pressure of being Captain ever SaskSport, we caught up with Linklater get to you? How did you deal with the to get his thoughts on athletics, success stress? and leadership. I’m one of those weird people who work Other than being named Sportsman of better under pressure, so it never got to theYear,what was your highlight of the me. I didn’t find it to be that stressful, but Kinsmen Dinner? if there was ever an issue that needed to I would have to say meeting Joe Sakic and be dealt with, I would address it and move John Elway. forward. During games I never felt You have had a great year...CIS Tour- pressure, when it would get close it nament All Star, National Champ, seemed like everything slowed down, and Sportsman of the Year.To what do you things became clear in my mind. I would credit your success? just do what needed to be done for us to First and foremost, my grandparents get the win. Maria and Walter Linklater. Without their What is the best basketball trash talk

U of S basketball star Mike Linklater is Saskatoon’s Sportsman of the Year. you have ever had? (Remember kids How do we get youth to choose the right read this!) path and avoid the temptation of When we were playing UBC in the partying and the gangs? CanWest Semi -Finals, I was guarding I think that it has a lot to do with popular- Josh White (player of the year) and I told ity and social issues; everyone wants to him it was going to be a long night for be liked and/or respected. But I will tell him. He can’t dribble very well with his you from experience, I have gained more ri ght hand so I kept forcing him right and respect from a broad range of people by he wouldn’t go. Then we met again in the abstaining from drugs and alcohol than National Finals and I asked him if he had any award I have ever won. Growing up worked on his right hand, he simply I did not want to be like everyone else, I replied “you again” with a concerned look wanted to be different. I didn’t want to on his face. I just laughed. follow, I wanted to lead. So I simply made Who is your basketball role model and my own decisions, I didn’t let anyone why? make them for me. But I would say most NBAwould be Michael Jordan. I grew up importantly, know who you are, where watching him play. His work ethic and you come from, what you stand for, and will to win was what I admired the most. what you believe in. Personal basketball role model would be Do you have a motto or tips for youth Willie Murdough. He had the same work out there? ethic and desire to win that I admired from Yes I do. We as human beings set our own MJ. “lil bill from da hill” is what we called limitations. For myself, I didn’t set any. I him. He took me under his wing when I did whatever it took to get me where I was in Grade 9 and showed me how to wanted to be. So for kids out there play like no other. He has two CBA wanting to do something with their lives Championships, a few defensive player and achieve something high, it’s up to of the year under his belt. He taught me them to do that. Nobody is going to do it how to win. for them. FEBRUARY 2011 Eagle Feather News - Sports 31 Impressive lineup for Saskatchewan Sport Awards

familiar sporting face and an upstart group of • Hylke van der Wal, Dalmeny, Saskatchewan Athletics • Kaylyn Kyle, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan Soccer Asso- young hockey players have a chance at provincial Youth - Male: ciation level acknowledgement of their sporting achieve- • Jarret Kenke, Saskatoon, Canoe Kayak Saskatchewan Team: ment. Sask Sport Inc. recently announced the finalists and • Michael Qing, Regina, Swim Saskatchewan Inc., and • University of Saskatchewan Huskie Men’s Basketball Arecipients for the Saskatchewan Sport Awards, which Special Olympics Saskatchewan Team Huskie Athletics include the2010Athlete oftheYearAwards, Saskatchewan • Sam Valentine, Saskatoon, Dive Sask • Team Saskatchewan Male – National Aboriginal Coaching Awards, and Team of the Year Award. New to Youth - Female: Hockey Championships Saskatchewan Hockey Associ- this year’s awards ceremony is the Officials’Recognition • Emily Schann, Saskatoon, Judo Saskatchewan ation category. • Renae Barks, Regina, • Saskatoon Hilltops, Football Saskatchewan At the National Aboriginal Hockey Championships Saskatchewan Rowing Association The recipients of the Volunteer Recognition Award, in Ottawa in May 2010, the Aboriginal Team Coaching Awards, and Officials’Awards are: Saskatchewan Men’s Hockey Team won gold. Volunteer Recognition Awards: The team’s first-place finish at this national tour- • Thomas Victor (TV) Taylor, Warman, Judo nament was earned against a field of nine other Saskatchewan teams and was their third National Title in a row. • Jennifer Ellarma, Kindersley, Special That has earned them a nod as Team of the Olympics Saskatchewan Year in these prestigious awards. They will be in Coach of the Year Award: tough though as they are up against National • Dean McGarry, Lloydminster, Judo Champion Junior Football Hilltops and CIS Saskatchewan National Champions the University of Coach Dedication Awards – Male and Fe- Saskatchewan Huskies Men’sbasketball team led male: by Mike Linklater. • Frank McCrystal, Regina, University of The Saskatchewan Sport Awards are held Regina Athletics annually by Sask Sport Inc. to celebrate the • Brenda Bennett, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan outstanding achievements of Saskatchewan Baton Twirling Association amateur athletes and those individuals who Officials’Awards – Male and Female: • Blake Lyons, Outlook, Saskatchewan Athlet- provide their support so these athletes can achieve Team Saskatchewan won gold at the NationalAboriginal Hockey Cham- their goals. This year, the committee received 88 ics Association pionships held in Ottawa in 2010. That achievement has earned them a • Arleen Day, Silton, Saskatchewan Curling nominations for the various award categories. nomination as team of the year. “Our province is home to many talented Association athletes who excel at the regional, national and interna- • Jessica Campbell, Melville, Saskatchewan Hockey Guest speaker will be philanthropist, motivator and tional levels, and this is our opportunity to recognize them Association former NHL coach, Ted Nolan. for their accomplishments. Male: The success Nolan has had coaching is substantial, Our athletes are supported by a vast network of • Ben Hebert, Regina, Regina Sport District Inc. and his accomplishments outside of hockey are equally coaches, officials and volunteers and we want thank them • Lucas Makowsky, Regina, Saskatchewan Amateur impressive. for their contributions to our amateur sport system,” said Speed Skating Association The Saskatchewan Sport Awards will be held Audra Young, Sask Sport Inc. President. • Jordan Eberle, Regina, Saskatchewan Hockey Thursday,April 7th at TCU Place in Saskatoon. The finalists for the Athlete of the Year Awards are: Association Tickets for the evening are available for $75 each, or Master: Female: $600 for a table of eight. • Russell Hart, Regina, Saskatchewan Rowing Associa- • Colette Bourgonje, Prince Albert, Saskatchewan To purchase tickets, phone 975-0800 in Saskatoon or tion Wheelchair Sports Association 780-9300 in Regina, or online at • Mike Vincent, Regina, Canoe Kayak Saskatchewan • Colleen Sostorics, Kennedy, Southeast Connection www.sasksport.sk.ca/SportAwards/tickets.php. Sport, Culture and Recreation District 32 Eagle Feather News FEBRUARY 2011