JANUARY 2010 VOLUME 13 - NUMBER 1
FREE Olympic torch ignites Wanuskewin Youngsters =ock to see Olympic symbol at Heritage Park
More than 600 students and dignitaries assembled at the newly renovated Wanuskewin Heritage Park to welcome the Olympic flame. (Photo by John Lagimodiere)
MEETING THE RIFLE VisitorstoashowcaseofAborig- inalhockeygotachancetomeet NHLlegendReggieLeachrecently. - Page 3
EARLYCHRISTMAS Cameco came up with a huge ChristmaspresentforSt.Mary’s Community School. - Page 9 Newly re-opened Wanuskewin welcomes Olympic torch
YOUTH AWARD By John Lagimodiere but was almost ruined. With the clean-up over and the Of Eagle Feather News $5.6 million in bills paid by the federal government, SaskTel Youth Award winner Wanuskewin opened her arms to the children again who EmilyKeyisoneamazingyoung he Olympic torch that has lit many athletes’ were wild in anticipation of the star of the day, the lady. dreams across Canada has helped spark the Olympic Flame. - Page 13 renaissance of the Wanuskewin Heritage Park. After sitting empty and without a heartbeat other “The public are coming back to Wanuskewin. It is Tthan jackhammers for two years, the newly renovated great to have the warmth here again where the place is COKE ART Wanuskewin was host to 600 students, dignitaries, buzzing and kids are playing and there is laughter,” said Red Pheasant Artist Lionel athletes, security and two torches as the Olympic torch Soonias. “The pulse is back.” Peyachew has won a presti- passed through on its way to Vancouver to open the Wanuskewin has been a vital resource in teaching gious award. Games in February. people about the First Nations people of this territory -Page 16 Dana Soonias, CEO of Wanuskewin was all smiles. and has been a keen resource of many schools. Cort He has just led the Park through the final stages of a long Dogneiz, Coordinator of First Nation, Métis and Inuit BAD BREAK shutdown and renovation and he was pleased to put the Education for Saskatoon Public Schools welcomed the Big River Boxer Stu Twardzik new site through its paces. return. suffered a setback when he “It is a beautiful feeling to have this kind of event “The kids are excited to be out here and not just broke a bone in his hand at just again. The place has a beat of its own today,” he said. because of the torch.You walk onto this land and you the wrong time. - Page 19 “We were expecting lots of kids, but not this many. The know there is something special. The kids feel it,” said day has gone really well. The staff is feeling the excite- Dogneiz. Welcome to our ment too. “When we talk about other ways of knowing, being New Year’s Issue “We are back. What a great way to open the Park.” and doing, when you are in the classroom, an environ- Coming In February : Children ran and screamed throughout the building, ment they are always used to, it is harder for the students Health & Wellness Edition again bringing life to a place that was once so important to accept other ways,” he says. CPMA #40027204 to theAboriginal community and the City of Saskatoon • Continued on Page Two 2 Eagle Feather News JANUARY 2010 Re-energized Wanuskewin perfect setting for Olympic torch celebration • Continued from Page One “When we bring them out here where they are in touch with the land, they already know coming out here that there is a different expectation and they are way more responsive.” And responsive they were. The students wound up circling the Olympic torch bearers before the flame arrived creating a mini mob scene that had the Vancouver Olympic logistical folks throwing a small fit, but everyone toed the line when the Olympic Flame arrived. Eight teepees stood vigil along the entrance road, each with its own fire that welcomed and led the torch into Wanuskewin. When the torch bearer, Asia Youngman, a Cree/Carrier woman from British Columbia carried the Torch into the reception area of the Park, the children parted like the Red Sea and the torch was welcomed with a blessing by Elder Leona Tootoosis, O Canada, sung by Falynn Baptiste in Cree and greetings by Chief Felix Thomas, FSIN Vice Chief Morley Watson and Métis Nation President Robert Doucette. After the ceremony, Youngman lit Olympic medal- winning French figure skater Phillippe Candeloro’s torch and he proceeded to carry the Torch out of Wanuskewin and it was off to Duck Lake to continue its tour to Vancouver. The children returned to their busses and it was back to business as usual at Wanuskewin, cleaning up after a very successful public event. “The renovations are done, the staff is really energized and the building is now just so efficient, both Torch bearersAsia Youngman and Phillippe Candeloro were mobbed by kids who were caught up in the for business and for the visitor,” said Soonias. Olympic moment. (Photo by John Lagimodiere) “Now we just want to welcome everyone back.” JANUARY 2010 Eagle Feather News 3 Showcase honoured Aboriginal hockey stars
By John Lagimodiere The inclusion ofAboriginal people in Of Eagle Feather News an International Ice Hockey Federation he World Junior Hockey Champi- World Junior Championship event is very onship took over the Saskatoon likely a first. and Saskatchewan during the “We are encouraged that the local Christmas holidays. Despite the Silver host committee invited our participation TMedal finish for the home team, the event and have acknowledged the contribu- was a huge success in its execution, profit tions ofAboriginal people to the game and inclusion. of hockey.” said Tootoosis. “We As part of the week’s long celebration educated the public on the success of of hockey, the BHP Billiton Family Aboriginal players at all levels of Hockey Fest was held from Dec. 17 to hockey,” he said. Dec. 22 at Saskatoon’s TCU Place. The IIHF World Junior Champi- The hockey fest featured 20,000 onship host committee also incl uded and square feet of displays from the Hockey honoured many local legends during the Hall of Fame and included numerous tournament by dedicating each game to interactive games for kids. one player. The Hall also had on display the RBC Freddie Sasakamoose (Ahtakakoop), Cup, the Memorial, the Hart, the Calder Jim Neilson (Big River) and Ron Delorme and the granddaddy o f them all, the Freddie Sasakamoose, the firstAboriginal person to play in the NHLposed with the (Cochin) were featured on game day Stanley Cup. HolyGrailofHockey,theStanleyCupwithyoungadmirers. (PhotobyJohnLagimodiere) admission tickets, banners were hung up A dedicated group of Aboriginal with their images, their bios were hockey supporters assembled a brilliant legends Freddie Sasakamoose, Jim by many people and our sponsors, it mentioned over the public address system showcase ofAboriginal hockey memora- Neilson, Reggie Leach, Bryan Trottier, would not have been possible.” during their dedicated game and they bilia and stars past and present for the Scott Daniels and Richard Pilon, all The six day event was capped off with presented game star awards after each Aboriginal Hockey Showcase day. players who have roots in Saskatchewan. an autograph session by each of the game. The event included Eugene ‘Bird’ “The Aboriginal Hockey Showcase legends present; Freddie Sasakamoose, The inclusion ofAboriginal people in Arcand’s uniqueAboriginal hockey card was an incredible undertaking with very the first Indian to play in the NHL, Jim this international sporting event at this collection that included a Freddie challenging circumstances. Overall, it was Neilson who had a 17 year pro career, and magnitude was a first. Sasakamoose original and the cards of very well assembled and received” said Reggie Leach who is an NHL record The host committee needs to be almost all former and current Aboriginal the co-chair of the group, Milton holder, former Team Canada member and commended for acknowledging the NHLers. The showcase included unique Tootoosis. Conn Smythe trophy winner. They were contributions ofAboriginal people to the signed jerseys and vintage photos of “Without the input and commitment joined by Saskatoon Blade Jeremy Boyer. game of Canada’s national sport.
Jeremy Boyer of the Saskatoon Blades joined legends Freddie Sasakamoose, Jim Neilsen, Reggie Leach and author Don Marks made themselves available to sign autographs. (Photo by John Lagimodiere)
Philadelphia Flyer legend Reggie Leach poses with Willow Lagimodiere and Riel Lagimodiere. 4 Eagle Feather News JANUARY 2010
Year of the Métis
heyear2010issignificantfortheMétisofCanadaasitisthe125th AnniversaryoftheNorthwestResistanceatBatocheandthehanging ofLouisRielinRegina.TheProvinceofSaskatchewannamed2010 the Year of the Métis in November and now this phenomenon has gone Tnational. In December, MPs voted unanimously to pass a motion in the House ofCommonsinOttawa.IntroducedbyReginamemberofparliamentRalph Goodale the motion recognized 2010 as Year of the Métis Nation. The motion called on the Government of Canada to use next year to celebrate the invaluable contributions of the Métis Nation which have enriched the lives of all Canadians. At the recent Métis National Council GeneralAssembly, in recogni- tionoftheimportantmilestone,representativesofthedemocraticallyelected Métis Nation government proclaimed 2010 Year of the Métis Nation as well. “TheYearoftheMétisNationwillbeanopportunitytocommemorate the Métis who fought defending their people at the Battles of Duck Lake, FishCreek,andBatoche125yearsago,”saidMNCPresidentClemChartier. Thirteen-year-old Tyson Poulin with the Olympic Torch. (Photo: Gabriel Dumont Institute) “It will also be a year of celebrating the Métis culture and heritage which now flourishes in this country.” MétisNationSaskatchewanPresidentRobertDoucetteisexcitedabout TorchrunthrillofalifetimeforMétisyouth the many events that will take place in 2010 and also about the impact the awarenessoftheMétispeopleandoursharedhistorywillhaveonCanadian Tyson Poulin was one of approximately his 300 meter run. “I was tingling all over even citizens. 12,000 people in Canada who had the before I got off the shuttle and to have people “I would like to thank our members of parliament for unanimously privilege of carrying the Olympic Torch. cheering for me made me tingle more. supporting this historic motion in our nation’s capital. Having the leaders Tyson is a 13-year-old Grade 8 student at “What was cool was that everyone ofthisgreatcountryrecognizetheMétispeople’scontributionstothisgreat Fairhaven School who is an athlete and wanted to touch the Torch or have their countrysignifiesaneweraofmovingforwardtogetherandunderstanding, leader. He volunteers his time on the Green picture taken with me. And I certainly let not only for Métis citizens but for all Canadians.” Team and at the Parkridge Centre. them.” InordertocelebratetheYearoftheMétisandtohelpcreateawareness, At one time, doctors and his family were As he reflected on the short historic Eagle Feather News has partnered with the Gabriel Dumont Institute to worried he would never be able to talk moment, the ecstatic Tyson said he enjoyed bring our readers a year of perspective on Métis history surrounding the because at the age of two he was diagnosed the 300 meter run the best and he has some Northwestresistance.GDIisanamazingeducationalinstitutewithaccess with a pervasive development disorder which special memories from the once in a lifetime to some of the wisest Métis academics in the world. is a form of autism. He was chosen to run the chance. Eachmonth,inthemiddlespread,wewillbringyouhistoricalarticles Torch because he is a leader and role model “I get to keep the Torch,” said Tyson. “We ontheMétisof1885,atimelineofeventssurroundingtheBattleofBatoche, for other Métis youth. will make a trophy cabinet and put it there. the aftermath and the trial and execution of Métis leader Louis Riel. Tyson had the thrill of his lifetime But it is a really good feeling just to know that Wewill also cover current events tied into theYear of the Métis cele- carrying the Torch. the flame I carried was going to be at the brations.DidyouknowtherearemanyMétisandFirstNationpeoplegoing “This was absolutely the most amazing Olympics in our own country.” toVancouvertoworkattheOlympicsandtoperformandshareourculture thing ever,” said an excited Tyson shortly after Good job Tyson. with the world?Wewill bring you those stories. DidyouknowthatbacktoBatochecelebrationswillgoforafullweek inJulywithcrowdsofover20,000expected?Youwillfindallthecoverage here at Eagle Feather News.Welook forward to sharing those stories with youaswelearnaboutandcelebratethehistoryofMétisandCanadianpeople. Women in leadership
WhenFederationofSaskatchewanIndianNationsChiefGuyLonechild statedafterhiselectionwinthatheintendedtofocusonwomenandchildren duringhistenure,thefolkshereatEagleFeatherNewscouldnothavebeen happier.Wehave always admired the role of women and have been frus- trated at the treatment ofAboriginal women in the last 100 years. WealwaysdedicateourMarcheditiontowomenandwetrytoensure theyarerepresentedinthepagesofEagleFeatherNews.Inordertoreinforce thatcommitment,wehavecommissionedReginawriterDesaraeEashappie to profile women in leadership for the next year.She will profile leaders in politics,education,sportsandbusiness.Shestartsoffthisyearwithaprofile of Muskowpetung Chief Liz Pratt.
In last month’s issue we incorrectly stuck Oops TheoFleurywithanaddictionthathedidnothave. Wereferredtohimasacrackaddict.Unfortunately, thatwasamisunderstanding.Theowasaseverecocaineaddictwhoatonetime had to go to a crack house in Chicago in order to score cocaine. He also had a $2,000 a week cocainehabit for over three years after his careerdried up. JANUARY 2010 Eagle Feather News 5 Truth and Reconciliation Commission offers hope
here’salotofinterestingthingsgoing communities.TheultimategoaloftheTRC us to tell our side of the story and will do its firstnationaleventinJune2010inWinnipeg. on in Indian/Métis country these is to “guide and inspire First Nations, Inuit besttomakesureallCanadiansareinformed, Within the next month or so the TRC will days. andMétispeoplesandCanadiansinaprocess andthatinitselfisaworthwhilecause. haveitsresearchstrategydevelopedandsoon AmongthemistheTruthandReconcil- of truth and healing leading toward recon- The TRC sponsored a Researchers’ afterthatwilldevelopitsnationalStatement TiationCommission(TRC)whichhasitsroots ciliationandrenewedrelationshipsbasedon ForumwhichwashostedattheUniversityof Gatheringtimetable. inthe“StatementofReconciliation”of1998 mutualunderstandingandrespect.” Toronto in December. Twenty-four For more information on the TRC you worked out between theAssembly of First The objectives of researchers from cancheckouttheirwebsiteat: Nations and the federal government, the theTRC, or what they acrossCanadawere http://www.trc-cvr.ca. Prime Minister’s2008Apology to residen- plantodotofulfilltheir invited to this one This website is full of up-to-date infor- tial school survivors, and the 2008 Indian mandate,aretoconduct day forum to help mation and has a number of activity sites Residential Schools SettlementAgreement a series of Statement theTRCdevelopits includinganon-line“memorybook”where which also provided the funds for theTRC. Gatherings across the research strategy. survivors and others impacted by the resi- Afterafewkinkswereironedout,threenew country where people Four of us were dentialschoolscansharetheirexperiences. commissionerswereappointedlastJune. can come and share fromSaskatchewan I’veheardlotsofcriticismsandopinions ForthefirsttimeinCanadianhistory,we their experiences, host including Dorothy againstthecreationoftheTRCandcriticisms have a commission made up entirely of seven national events Myo from SICC, willalwaysarisewhennewinitiativescome AboriginalPeople–theHonourableJustice acrossthecountry,participateinandsupport PaulChartrandformerlyofUofSandDr.Jim along. Then there are the folks who don’t Murray Sinclair is Commission Chair, and community events, research, public Miller from U of S. Researchers from other want to bother educating Canadians at all. Chief Wilton Littlechild and Marie Wilson education, and support commemoration partsoftheworldwhereIndigenousPeoples Butinthebigpicturewehavenothingtolose are Commissioners. All three have long activitiesforsurvivors.Thesecommemora- hadsimilarexperiences,alsoparticipated. andsomethingtogainfromthiseffort. distinguished careers working for and with tions are also intended to “pay tribute in a ThroughaseriesofDialogueCircleswe I come from a family of residential their own people and have received many lasting manner, in partnership with INAC” were asked to share our ideas and recom- schoolsurvivorsandwouldrathermygrand- awardsfortheirgoodwork. but I’m not sure what role INAC is playing mendations on how to map out a research childrenandgreat-grandchildrenlearnabout TheTRChasafive-yearmandateanda inallofthis–INACisnotrepresentedonthe program,whatkindsofresearchprojectswe the residential school experience from our $60 million budget to provide residential CommissionanditisnotclearifINACwill thoughtwouldbeuseful,andhowtosetupa peoples’ownvoicesandperspectives,inour school survivors and their loved ones the beattendinganyoftheTRCactivities,sohow national research program. While we all ownwords.Iwanttoknowthatmyfamilies’ opportunitytotellthetruthaboutwhatwent wegetINACtoreachamutualunderstand- participatedandsharedourexperiencesand experiences willnot be forgotten, not so we on at those schools and how it impacted not ing with us and respect for us and our expe- ideas,wealsolearnedalotfromeachother. cancontinueblamingandactinglikevictims, just the survivors but their families and riencesisyettobeseen. TheTRChasalreadystartedparticipat- but so we can face the pain and grow in Inanyevent,theTRCpromisestoallow ing in community events and will host the strengthasindividualsandasaPeople. Indigenous team will compete at Olympics one day
appy New Year to all readers. It tournament hockey days in the 1980s sure there are many others I have not met, to the North American context and is a new year and I start it with a with Sagkeeng “Old-Timers” in being an original outsider from promises to expand worldwide. new focus, having offered Manitoba. Jim, who is from Big River Manitoba. This has been one of Willie comments on policy issues in the last few Saskatchewan, played 15 years for New Before I leave ice hockey I have to Littlechild’s pet projects since the 1970s. Hmonths. I leap into 2010 with one of my York Rangers and finished his career tell you this one. Since we did not play The former member of parliament, favourite topics: sports. with Gretzky and the Oilers, but that only inAboriginal tournaments the name lawyer and current Truth and Reconcil- In my experience, Indigenous folks should not be held against him. ‘Sagkeeng’seemed to present problems iation Commission member from have always been keen sportsmen. Also at the pre-tournament events of spelling and pronunciation for many Hobbema studied Phys Ed at the Univer- Books have been written on the lives of was the ‘Riverton Rifle’, from up-the- tournament organizers in Canada and sity ofAlberta and competed with the great Aboriginal athletes and on histori- road where I grew up, Reggie Leach of Europe. My favourite written ‘faux-pas’ Golden Bears. cal insights such as the origins of lacrosse the Philadelphia Flyers. Other indige- was the tournament schedule that had us In conjunction with his work at the in ‘baggataway’. In the short space of this nous players who listed as the United Nations he has garnered a lot of column I will stick to winter sports and were recognized at ‘Sagging Old- support for his vision of a World Indige- add something about developments. the World Junior Timers”! Isn’t that nous Games which he is working on The World Junior Hockey tourna- events include perfect for a team through W.I.N. Sports (World Indigenous ment held in Saskatoon this year stimu- Saskatchewan’s of men who had Nations). lated the interest that Canadians have in legendary Fred reached and passed Willie knows his way around the ice hockey and also highlighted some Sasakamoose and their ‘best before’ international circles and has even tabled Indigenous players in local pre-tourna- Bryan Trottier of the date and are a document at the UN that outlines devel- ment promotional events. The game is Stanley Cup-loving playing ‘Old- opments towards the World Indigenous called ‘ice hockey’internationally espe- New York Islanders, and legends like Timers’hockey? Games. cially where ‘field hockey’is popular, George Armstrong, captain of the The focus of winter sports next Willie, who still competes success- such as Australia. Toronto Maple Leafs in the old six-team month will be on the Winter Olympics in fully at the Masters level in swimming I have some good memories from the NHL.You can read all about them and Vancouver. At the time of writing the recently told me that he has growing days when I played ‘ice hockey’ in others in Don Marks’book “They Call Olympic torch is winding its way west support for an Indigenous team at the Australia, of games played under palm Me Chief: Warriors on Ice”. in the Prairies and helps me recall my Olympics and expects that will happen trees on an open hockey rink situated In every province I think you will little run with the torch back in 1988 for in one sport or another before long.And next to a swimming pool in Sydney, or find a group of dedicated individuals who the Calgary XV Olympic Winter Games. the Indigenous Games are being touted in the rink located on the second floor of are the engines that drive volunteer Indigenous sports are growing as events that will incorporate cultural an old movie theatre in Melbourne. The organization and sponsorship of amateur nationally and internationally and it may elements as well. bottom strip on the boards was made of hockey and other sports. In be only a matter of time before we see an Already I have run out of space for steel and the sparks really flew when you Saskatchewan that includes folks such Indigenous Team competing in an some of my winter stories. fought for the puck in the corners. as Chief Darcy Bear of Whitecap Dakota, Olympic sport.At the forefront of devel- Maybe next month I will write about It was good to catch up with old Eugene ‘Big Bird’ Arcand, Milton opment is the growing Indigenous summer sports. Or maybe I will wait for buddy Jim Neilson, a teammate from my Tootoosis and Morley Watson and I am Games phenomenon, which has spread the time when the frogs start to sing. 6 Eagle Feather News JANUARY 2010 Not easy being a leader
he ideal First Nation leader has field. They work with crisis. Many a heart of gold and a skin of iron. Aboriginal families and communities There are many people who have are embroiled in crisis. This stress takes given so much for so long that their its toll. Thealth has deteriorated and they enjoy few rewards for their many years of hard work. It’s not only Aboriginal political leaders but social workers, grandpar- ents, single mothers and a multitude of care givers. Chiefs and political leaders are often criticized for receiving high salaries that are tax free. Their wages Medical conditions such as ulcers, may not be so high when the benefits depression, arthritis, burn out and heart and salary of a government bureaucrat conditions are all too common occur- are considered. The bureaucrat also rences. follows a prescribed career path and Social workers often don’t last and enjoys job security. An Indian leader those who do can easily turn cynical and does not. ineffectual. It’s a very hard field to be in Bureaucrats go quietly about their and it is especially hard when the care- work while Chiefs are subjected to unre- givers work within their own commu- lenting lateral violence and crisis. They nities. The rewards are few and the are expected to do more with less. This stress is high. A life span is often dilemma is especially true with an often shortened. hostile federal government in power. Maggie Hodgson has received the There are some corrupt Aboriginal Order of Canada. She worked for leaders whose excesses flare up in the decades in the addictions and wellness media from time to time. The hard work field. She, like many others does not and dedication of the many, however, is receive a pension beyond the benefits most often overlooked. awarded all Canadians. She must There was a time when Indian continue working in a time when others Affairs provided the reserves with can rest and enjoy their retirement years. match stick houses, cold in winter and The aboriginal leaders and care- hot in summer. These substandard givers have the added responsibility not houses were replaced by much better only to meet the predominant society’s CMHC homes. Families were required standards, but to excel beyond them. to pay a reasonable portion of their This desire, if not need, is little under- income toward housing. Some tenants stood beyond Aboriginal circles. paid for awhile then simply stopped. Aboriginal people remain a distinct Chief and council were stuck with people with distinct needs other peoples covering costs they could ill afford. cannot full fill and so must strive to Homes were over-crowded to begin develop an Aboriginal care giving with and they did not have the heart to culture while meeting the standards of evict. These families often had no place another people. else to go. This is an ongoing struggle but a Chief and council paid what they struggle most caregivers would agree is could. The government stepped in and most worthwhile. There was a time made sure outstanding debts were paid. when an Indian Social Work degree took Ahumanitarian gesture became a source four years to complete while a regular of howling criticism to the many who degree took but three. Unfair or not did understand the predicament many more was and is expected from the First Nations face. Indian Social Worker than their peers. Funding is often slow in coming. There areAboriginal people who First Nations must then take from one spend their whole life looking after program to pay for another until funding children. They are the little mothers. The is received. oldest daughter looks after her siblings This situation is another source of while the parents are away. They often misunderstanding and unfair criticism. have children at a young age they must One year funding arrived so late the look after. Then there are the grand- Saskatchewan Indian Winter Games children and the children of relatives were held in June. who, for whatever reasons, are unable Aboriginal leaders do not retire to to raise their own children. Their the lower Fraser Valley or the sacrifice often goes unheralded. Okanagan. If they are lucky they may Grandmothers are often the glue find themselves on First Nations boards holding families together that would where a per diem can become a source otherwise be split apart. of income beyond an old age pension. Sometimes it takes super human The caregivers are often the ones strength for those in responsibility to not who suffer the most. Social workers are only hold their people together but to the fire department of the care giving find a way forward. Their efforts need recognition. JANUARY 2010 Eagle Feather News - Women in Leadership 7 Chief Pratt following in father’s footsteps
By Desarae Eashappie “Even though we are a nation that has can’t go forward without a foundation system. She says she carries the For Eagle Feather News come through a lot of hardships and – the Elders. I really believe that the teachings of her late dad, World War uscowpetung Chief Elizabeth turmoil ... we are still survivors.” Elders have a lot of knowledge and Two First Nation veteran William Pratt, (Liz) Pratt is one of approxi- Recently, Muscowpetung First wisdom that needs to be transferred to with her today. mately 12 woman chiefs Nation hosted their first powwow in the young people. I believe that our “I spent a number of years traveling among the 74 First Nations with my dad. I was Macross Saskatchewan. Pratt’s mentored by my dad and he vision for a stronger and had great beliefs and strong healthier community is family values. All of (her similar to that of other chiefs, sibling’s) careers have but she says her journey to been with helping people,” realizing this vision, began she says. years before she stepped out One of the most of her comfort zone in 2008 valuable attributes that and into an entirely different Pratt says she has carried atmosphere. with her, passed on from “I would have been her dad, is being able to sit comfortable staying as a and listen to what people bus driver and staying in have to say. school, eventually opening “I sit and listen a lot. my own business. But I felt He always taught us to sit in my heart that I needed to and listen, and to not be so do something and I stepped eager to jump up and out of my safety zone. I speak, because there is took a step of faith to do always somebody that is something better for my more educated and has community, says Pratt. more knowledge than “It took many years of you,” she says. thought for me to make As a representative of sure that if I was going to the small number of run for this position, then I women chiefs in would do what felt right in Saskatchewan, Pratt my heart,” she says. encourages other First Besides bettering her Nations women to “step out of their safety zone. community, Pratt says one Chief Liz Pratt decided the time was right to assume a leadership role in her community. (Photo by Mike Dubois) of her greatest visions is for We’ve been given that her community to have something that over 30 years, where she was honoured young people will be more successful if same measure of strength as men,” she cannot be taken away from them: by the community. Pratt says events they carry that pride and dignity that our says. education and independence to within the community, such as the pow- Elders pass down to them,” she says. “If other First Nations women feel contribute to society. wow, are important for youth in the Pratt comes from a large family, in their heart and they have a vision for “I think that as First Nations community. including 15 siblings, and says she the community, then they should walk people, we have a lot to offer,” she says. “When we talk about the future, we grew up with a strong family support with their vision and be strong in it.” 8 Eagle Feather News JANUARY 2010 New Year begins with healthy resolutions
ver the last year many of our Be kind to your children – they may the pharmacy or search the Internet. It take care of all aspects of your life. readers wrote in or sent emails. have to take care of you when you’re old. could save your life. Consider volunteering for community Here is my blanket advice for Don’t ditch your children to play at My family recently lost our aunt to organizations or at your kids’school – it those I was unable to answer – you know the casino or bingo ... ever sick. Tapwe! a heart attack. She was so funny, loving, feels good helping others by doing so it Owho you are. People have really welcoming and makes you a healthier person. Don’t behave like a jerk when you done that! understanding and Take time to check on the Elders in have too much to drink. This year make Make an she will be forever your community they will appreciate the the decision to tell your drunken friends appointment with missed in our time you spend with them and you just and family what jerks they can turn into your family doctor family. might learn something. when they have too much to drink. Just and dentist. There Auntie made Talk to your children and find out make sure they’re sober when you tell are way too many sure that we came how things are going in their lives, Often them. toothless Chiefs out together as a family parents get so busy they forget to talk to Quit complaining about having to there! Exercise your to share meals, their kids remember you brought these pay child support. Quit having unpro- treaty right to good play cards, and children into the world and it’s your tected sex. If you don’t want children, teeth! Make 2010 the year you take your celebrate life. Once again we were responsibility. use condoms or birth control (duh...). health into your own hands and be reminded to enjoy our time here on earth Give them daily chores and teach Don’t ask someone you just met, proactive instead of reactive. because it really is too short. them how to take care of themselves. “Do you know who I am?” Unless you Gentlemen take care of your bodies, Anew year brings new opportunities Encourage your children to stay in school wear a name tag all the time don’t expect have regular checkups for your prostate. to make changes in our lives, some will so that they can be independent because that a complete stranger is going to know I understand choose to it sucks living on social assistance. who you are. that it’s an New year brings new quit smoking Last but not least, participate in your Don’t hit your spouse or treat them uncomfort- and others band, municipal, provincial and federal badly. Shame on you. I bet you’re kinder able opportunities to make may decide elections. It is your right. to strangers than your own family and procedure to get more Thank you for your emails and friends, aren’t you? but better changes in our lives. exercise. letters over the past year. Keep them Make 2010 the year you make than dying Whatever coming. changes to laugh more and spend more of embarrassment. you choose, make it a healthy choice. You can write to me at Eagle Feather time with family and friends and Women, do you know what the Don’t forget that being a healthy News P.O. Box 924 St Main Saskatoon remember hands are for helping not symptoms are for a heart attack? Ask person includes mental, emotional and SK S7K 3M4 or email hurting. your doctor or pick up pamphlets from spiritual well being, so don’t forget to [email protected] JANUARY 2010 Eagle Feather News 9 Christmas came early at St. Mary’s School
By Darla Read for $500,000 that will go towards the about getting involved in important reflects that of many First Nations. For Eagle Feather News pediatric wellness clinic that will be a part projects, and it’s about supporting those “That’s why it’s important to invest tudents and staff at St. Mary’s of the new St. Mary’s School. who need it most.” in this school, as well as other inner city Community School received an Grandey says corporate responsibil- He says this project was something schools. Far too often when business early Christmas gift last month. ity is important to Cameco, but said that Cameco just had to be involved in. expands ... and more families move out to A week before Santa was due to means more than just the company’s St. Mary’s opened a pediatric clinic the suburbs, that need overshadows some Sarrive, Cameco Corporation’s President bottom line. in 2007 in partnership with the Universi- of the need that's in the inner cities.” and Chief Executive Officer Gerry “It’s about a lot more than just jobs ty of Saskatchewan and the Saskatoon The new St. Mary’s school is part of Grandey presented the school with a and economics. It’s also about supporting Tribal Council. the larger Pleasant Hill Revitalization wrapped gift that two students eagerly programs and projects that contribute to At this presentation, STC Tribal Chief Project, which will also include new ripped open. Inside they found a cheque the quality of life in our community. It’s Felix Thomas praised the donation, noting affordable housing and renewed park the demographic of St. Mary’s closely space.
Elders Mike Maurice and Betsy Henderson presented Cameco CEO Gerry Grandey with a Star Blanket after Jonathon Tait, Cody Bear and Diane Boyko, Chair of the Saskatoon Catholic School Division opened the Cameco gift of $500,000. (Photos by John Lagimodiere) 10 Eagle Feather News JANUARY 2010 2010 - The Yea Rose Fleury: Proud to represent Métis
étis Elder Rose Fleury was honoured to be an Olympic torch bearer as it passed through her hometown of Duck Lake. An active community mem- ber, Fleury's work compiling statistics for Métis genealogy has created a Mlegacy enabling thousands of Métis to trace their ancestry. Her tenacity and commitment is not unlike that of Olympic athletes, all of whom make personal sacrifices and dedicate their time and energy to pursue goals and inspire others. Born Rose Gariepy near MacDowall, Saskatchewan on November 26, 1926, she grew up on a homestead north of Duck Lake. She learned to read,write and became keenly interested in history while attending school in Duck Lake. An equally valuable education came at home from her grandmother's stories of trav- els, work and families, underpinned with a reminder to “never forget where you come from or who you are. Listen to your Elders.” Working hard all her life, including a trapline in her youth, she lived at home until she was17, and married Ernest Fleury at 21. “I've kept track of my life in journals,” noted Rose. Deaths, births, weddings, and happenings of the day have been faithfully recorded. “Unfortunately, my early journals were lost when our house burned in 1960.” When she broke her leg and was confined to a wheelchair in 1967, she began genealogy research, starting with her own families – Gariepy and Fleury, Par- enteau and Lafond. Breaking her hip and left leg again gave her time to compile her research into a family history. “Now I am 83 and have a genealogy centre at Batoche,” she said, adding itʼs disheartening that many people don't know their ancestors beyond three genera- tions. “This is why I am putting my whole heart into this project. Itʼs important for our people to know where they came from, how we traveled, where were our ances- tral homes, what kind of work was done to provide food, shelter and clothing.” History, stories, and entertainment are the backbone of the Métis culture, adds Rose. “I am dedicating my history books to all our lost people who are still in limbo as they research the history of their ancestors and cultural background.” She added it is an honour is to be selected to carry the Olympic torch on be- half of the Métis people and her community. “It was very awesome ... I donʼt even know who put my name in, but I guess there was quite a few angels in Duck Lake.” Fleury said given her age, she wasn't going to accept but her kids talked her Rose Fleury knew the best way to represent the Métis people while carrying into it, saying it was a once in a lifetime opportunity. Cutting short a trip in B.C. – the Olympic torch was to ride in a wagon. (Photo: Gabriel Dumont Institute) she said sheʼd had enough of the mountains anyway, and liked getting back to her flat country – she came back to carry the torch while riding in a wagon, her own stipulation. Métis Did you know? “I said I don't want to go in a truck, thatʼs not my thing – since I'm representing the Métis I should ride in a wagon.” * Cumberland House is the oldest Métis community in Saskatchewan? Starting at the Duck Lake town hall, she carried the torch to the Duck Lake In- The Hudson’s Bay Company’s Samuel Hearne established it in 1774. terpretive Centre, with many relatives and friends watching proudly – she has even lived to see her fifth generation, in two great-great-grandchildren. Her family * Did you know? In 1776, Alexander Henry and Joseph Henry of the chipped in to purchase the torch she carried, and are getting everything framed in- North West Company began to trade in the Ile-a-la Crosse region. cluding the suit, mitts, and toque. She calculates they must have two or three hundred photos they snapped. *Didyouknow? TheCreeandDeneinwhatisnownorthwest “Itʼs once in a lifetime,” Fleury said, adding that even if another Olympics Saskatchewan met at an annual lacrosse game, which Benjamin Fro- comes to Canada in her lifetime, “You don't get to do it a second time – thereʼs al- bisher saw around 1777.This event provided the community with its ways somebody else who needs to have a turn.” French name, Ile-a-la-Crosse. - Written by Andréa Ledding JANUARY 2010 Eagle Feather News 11 ar of the Métis 1885 Resistance: he 1885 Resistance occurred because the Batoche-area Métis were frustrated that the federal government did not address their lack of Why did it happen? formal title to their lands and their desire for proper political repre- Tsentation. Having escaped ethnic and religious discrimination in Manitoba after 1870, the Métis desperately wanted title to their lands because they did not want to be dispossessed like they had been in Manitoba. In 1885, Louis Riel drafted a new petition, which had the same principles As a result, dozens of petitions were sent, from the mid 1870s until 1885, as the preceding ones, but was more urgent in tone. The government to government authorities. The federal governmentʼs response was inaction, responded in January 1885, saying it would not negotiate with Riel and would including to one in 1882 signed by all of Batocheʼs residents. Throughout the only consider the Métisʼ demands if they were presented at the proper time later 1870s and early 1880s, the Batoche-area Métis were represented polit- and place. It is for this reason that Louis Schmidt and other Métis felt that the ically by Manitoba Métis or local Euro-Canadians who, in the end, did not federal government had precipitated the outbreak of the 1885 Resistance. serve to adequately address their grievances. On March 18, 1885, the Batoche-area Métis established a provisional After years of government inaction, the Batoche-area Métis organized government and a 20-member peopleʼs council or “Exovedate.” After the politically to address their grievances. In 1883-84, a committee of the District Battle of Duck Lake on March 26, 1885, the federal government finally took of Lorneʼs leading Métis inhabitants drew up a list of grievances, and voted action and sent in the Canadian Army, under General Middleton, to crush the in favour of sending a delegation to Ottawa, and for bringing Louis Riel to Métisʼ resistance. Batoche. In the end, using the military to address the Métisʼ grievances proved Later that summer, the Batoche-area Métis petitioned Prime Minister tragic not only because many lives were lost, but also because the Métis Macdonald demanding that the North-West Territories become a province would become even further socially, economically and politically marginal- with a full responsible government, that the Métis be granted full title to their ized. lands, that these lands be surveyed in the Métisʼ river lot land-holding system, - Written By Gabriel Dumont Institute: David Morin and that Louis Rielʼs leadership be formally recognized through either his and Darren Prefontaine appointment to the territorial council or to the Senate. Chronology of the 1885 Resistance ...
and the appointment of a French-speaking To be continued next month ... 1872 magistrate, a Métis member of the territorial Prepared by the Gabriel Dumont Institute with governing council, and a land grant to extin- The Saskatchewan valley Métis petitioned for material developed by Darren Prefontaine, Leah guish the Métisʼ Aboriginal title. an inalienable colony of 1,800, 000 acres. Dorion, Ron Laliberté, and Father Guy Lavallée. Calendar of Events 1875 (August) 1878 Prince Albert Métis and non-Aboriginal settlers February The North-West Mounted Police forced the Ba- sent a petition to the Governor General regard- toche-area Métis to abandon their form of local Saskatchewan Aboriginal ing their land rights with one hundred and forty- self-government, “le conseil de Saint-Laurent” eight signatures. Storytelling Month or the “Council of St. Laurent.” With Gabriel Dumont as its president, the councilʼs last edict National Aboriginal Day tried to enforce The Law of the Prairieʼs conser- (January 15) vation measures. 1878 June 21 Prince Albert Métis and non-Aboriginal settlers (February 1) sent a petition, with eighty signatures, to the 1878 Minister of the Interior. Back To Batoche The Métis at St. Laurent (Batoche) prepared a July 18-25 list of grievances. In a letter to the Lieutenant- (February 1) Governor David Laird, Gabriel Dumont asked 1878 John Arcand Fiddle Fest for local schools to be subsidized by the territo- Gabriel Dumont and the St. Laurent Métis sent rial government, assistance for Métis farmers, a petition to Lieutenant-Governor David Laird. August 12-15 Louis Riel Day November 16
Send your event to: [email protected] 12 Eagle Feather News JANUARY 2010
Alyssa Kaiswatum was thrilled to be one of the torchbearers when the Olympic flame arrived in Saskatchewan in January. Cheered on by familyandfriends,Kaiswatumknewherlate Kohkomwouldbeproud. (Photo by Jarrett Crowe)
Kaiswatum carries =ame in Fort Qu’Appelle
By Jarrett Crowe really supported me. I just want to thank For Eagle Feather News my family because they are everything to lyssa Kaiswatum, a 20-year-old me and (they’re) the best.” student athlete at First Nations Torchbearers across the country run University of Canada, was one of approximately 300-400 metres during 12,000 torchbearers chosen to be a part of their part of the relay. They also have the Athe 2010 Olympic Torch Relay. opportunity to purchase the torch that they She ran the initial leg of the relay in carry. Kaiswatum chose to do so and will Fort Qu’Appelle, Saskatchewan on keep hers as a memento of this occasion. January 9, running from theAll Nations Kaiswatum plays for the University Healing Hospital to the Treaty 4 Gover- of Regina Cougars softball team that was nance Centre. the 2009Alberta Intercollegiate Women’s Thrilled at the opportunity to run with Fastball League champion. This team also the Olympic flame, she not only ran for competed in the 2009 National Champi- herself but for others including her late onships in Kitchener, Ontario this past Kohkom. October. “She passed away two years ago. Kaiswatum will use her experience as She’d be so proud of me, of the things I’ve a stepping stone to her dream: to one day accomplished, especially at a young age.” play at the Olympics. She will be attending “It was amazing,” she says of being tryouts for Team Canada in June. cheered on by family, friends and the “I promised my family that I would public as she started her run. reach the Olympics some day. It doesn’t “When (my family) found out that I mean right now. Maybe when I'm 36, it was going to run the torch they were really (age) doesn’t matter but I want to get there happy for me. They cheered me on and someday.” JANUARY 2010 Eagle Feather News 13 Honour student working on her dream
By Andreá Ledding couragement along the way – especially from her For Eagle Feather News friends – and receiving the award was not only inspir- mily Key, recipient of the Sask Tel Youth Spirit ing to her, but encouraged her to keep pushing herself Award for 2009, was only 15 years old when she harder towards success. assumed responsibility for her entire family, in- “The whole experience was really great for me,”she cluding four younger sisters and a baby brother. said, adding the win was completely unexpected. “The E“Emily has to overcome much adversity in her biggest smile spread across my face, apparently – I young life, but her spirit is what is supporting her and was speechless.” her family, and we wish to recognize Emily for the great In 2009 she continued to receive high marks, with young woman she is,” said Minister Ken Cheveldayoff, an average of 92 per cent overall, school activity par- representing the Province of Saskatchewan at last June’s ticipation, and selection for the Student Senate at awards. Regina’s Archbishop O’Neill High School. The eldest of six, Key has managed to maintain a She says her experience with the Student Senate home for them all since their grandmother, the main was great, the highlight being a program suggested by caregiver, passed away in 2008. Her four sisters are now one of the other Senate members. aged 14, 12, nine, and eight. Her brother turns three in “It was for exchange students and aboriginal stu- February. dents – a place where they can go and talk about their Her school guidance counsellor recommended her culture,” Key explained. for the Spirit Youth Award, which is co-sponsored by Meanwhile, her average remained right up in the the Government of Saskatchewan Ministry of First Na- same high range, and she said she does sacrifice her so- tions and Métis Relations, knowing of this exceptional cial life to study hard, but it’s worth it. Her advice to young woman who remains modest, hard-working, and others: “Work hard and get involved with whatever in- focused on her goals, while keeping her family to- terests you ... you can never start too early, getting pre- gether. pared.” She continues to look to the future, and to focus on She also joined the pre-profession club in the med- her studies while keeping the home fires going. She is ical section, which provided an opportunity to chat now in Grade 11 at Archbishop O'Neill High School in with a doctor and receive advice. She encourages oth- Regina. ers to “Get things that look good on your applications. “Yeah it’s hard work,” she admits, but says sheer Show your interest.” determination has kept her going. A member of Gordons First Nation, Emily hopes to “I’m working towards making my dream attend university in nursing or medicine, ideally doing come true because that’s what my grandmother her pre-med at the University of Regina and a medical Emily Key received the Sask TelYouth SpiritAward wanted." degree in Vancouver, one of the best medical schools in from Ken Cheveldayoff representing the Province. She adds that she receives moral support and en- Western Canada. 14 Eagle Feather News - Business/Careers JANUARY 2010 Tribal councils building construction alliance
wo Saskatchewan tribal councils have entered people also need a construction management firm that into the construction management industry. Head- understands its culture and the communities we serve,” quartered in Saskatoon, FirstAlliance Construc- said Chief Sheldon Wuttunee of the BattlefordsAgency tion Solutions is a consortium between the Saskatoon Tribal Chiefs. TTribal Council, Battlefords Agency Tribal Chiefs and Wuttunee and other leaders believe it is the right time American construction management professionals K- to enter into construction management due to the Mech Constructors (K-Mech) from Minneapolis/St. enormous potential for capital projects and other industry Paul, Minnesota. expansion in Saskatchewan. The leader’s confidence is “This consortium is all about providing construc- due in part to the partnership with K-Mech Constructors tion management services to our own communities and from Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota. creating economic development,” Saskatoon Tribal K-Mech is a joint partnership between two U.S STC Chief Felix Thomas and Chief Sheldon Council Chief Felix Thomas said. building management construction and mechanical engi- Wuttunee of BATC are excited about the partner- “Saskatchewan’s economy is poised to rebound, neering firms, Knutson Construction Services and Corval ship. (Photo by John Lagimodiere) despite the recession, and we are positioning ourselves Group, respectively. to take advantage of the business opportunities, espe- K-Mech was established to join the synergies of two First Alliance Construction Solutions will now be cially where private sector projects are concerned.” U.S construction organizations and seek out opportuni- the vehicle for K-Mech Constructors to team with First First Alliance Construction Solutions (FACS) will ties in the U.S and Canada. K-Mech entered into the Nations in Canada, especially on projects involving other offer construction management and project management Canadian market through the construction management First Nation communities, business and industrial services, and will compete for both First Nation capital of a canola crushing plant in Saskatchewan. Since that projects. projects and private sector contracts. FACS plans to time the company has been looking for further opportu- First Nation leaders believe FACS will fulfill an market its services to tribal council and band capital nities in the province, which led to the partnership important role in the evolution of a strong First Nations projects, mining and industrial sectors, Crown corpora- between K-Mech, STC and BATC. economy. The company’s growth and expansion into the tions, health care facilities and the renewable energy “We couldn’t be more excited about the partnership market will create much needed capacity in construction industry. that has been established,” stated Michael Ahern, management, engineering, education, training and the The BattlefordsAgency Tribal Chiefs believes FACS President of FACS. development of the First Nation labour pool. not only fulfills a need within the First Nations “We see aggressive and proactive partners in STC “Webelieve one of the solutions to our youth’s social community, it is an excellent opportunity to position First and BATC, with a strong focus toward long-term business problems is a job,” said Chief Thomas. “We need to Nations in Saskatchewan for the future. growth. By combining nearly 200 years of construction provide as much opportunity for our young people to “We are literally going to help build Saskatchewan experience (in K-Mech) with the rich history of the First learn a skill and start a career.Aconstruction firm like through this new construction management firm, starting Nations bands, we believe we are offering the perfect FACS will enable us to offer those types of opportuni- with some of our own First Nation communities. Our construction solution to the province of Saskatchewan.” ties to our youth.” JANUARY 2010 Eagle Feather News - Business/Careers 15 Firstanewname,nowanewhomeforSMEDCO
By John Lagimodiere its 23 years of existence, they have likes how SMEDCO is positioned. Ultimately it is about creating wealth Of Eagle Feather News disbursed 1,132 loans totaling $27.9 “First off, the move was a good idea in the Métis community and the reward he SaskMétis Economic Develop- million for 610 Métis owned businesses for everyone,” said McLeod. “That for Fofonoff and his staff is the success of ment Corporation, or SMEDCO, in Saskatchewan. These businesses have building was falling apart and we had no a business. has been offering assistance to created or maintained employment for money to fix it.And SMEDCO is ready for “We all get excited when someone Métis entrepreneurs for over 23 years. In almost 2,000 Métis people. the boom we are seeing in Métis business. succeeds,” he added. Tthe past, they were referred to as “One year we had a very big client. “But you know lots of our business “Ultimately we would like to see a SNEDCO, as in SaskNative Economic. Wedid some math and that client had over comes from our current clients who come provincial report that shows the amount in for loans for expansion. That shows that of wealth in Métis communities being our clients are successful. There are lots equal to that of everyone else. of positive developments,” says McLeod. That would be very rewarding.”
SMEDCO has a new home at 406 Jessop Avenue in Saskatoon.
They changed their name to a half million dollar payroll,” said SaskMetis to better reflect their client Fofonoff. base. If you can’t find them, you are likely “The taxes the business and employees one of the many souls that are looking up were paying were more than what the at the old MN-S building by the airport in government gave us at SMEDCO to Saskatoon where there are no Métis operate each year.Those numbers indicate organizations now.The MN-S, SMEDCO the success of our programs.” and MACSI have all moved to new digs SMEDCO steps up to help Métis in Sutherland on Jessop Avenue, a few entrepreneurs who often have the skills and blocks from the FSIN. desire to succeed in business but are The move, though time consuming, lacking capital. has been a good thing for SMEDCO. “There is a lack of family wealth in “It is nice to be in a building that is in the Métis community,” said Fofonoff. better shape,” says SMEDCO CEO Greg “This leaves them with no equity for down Fofonoff referring to the old buildings payments. Our equity requirements are a penchant to leak and be moldy. bit less severe than banks and that allows “Being here with the MN-S and other us to help.” affiliates does give us some profile and Bob McLeod is theArea Director for allows us to deliver better for our clients.” Western Region IIA and the MN-S And SMEDCO has many clients. In Economic Development Minister and he 16 Eagle Feather News JANUARY 2010
Lionel Peyachew with Buffalo Run, a piece that celebrates the importance of the buffalo for prairie people. (Photo by Jennifer Dubois) Red Pheasant artist selected for Aboriginal Art Bottle Program
By Jennifer Dubois “Working with hide and various For Eagle Feather News elements using natural objects was what ne hundred Aboriginal artists inspired me to do something like this. It’s were in competition to display something different which is not usually a their art on a giant Coca-Cola conventional element that’s used every bottle. Lionel Peyachew, from Red day,” said Peyachew. OPheasant First Nation, was one of the 15 Kirsten Mihailides, manager of Public artists selected for the Aboriginal Art Affairs and Communications for Coca- Bottle Program. Cola, said they were influenced to come up Coca-ColapresentedPayachew’sartwork with the bottle concept by the variety of at the First Nations University of Canada on Aboriginal art across the country. January7.Thebottleswillbeunveiledregion- “We wanted to represent what Canada allyacrossCanadathroughouttheVancouver really is andAboriginal artists are reallyour 2010 OlympicTorch Relay. truest form of art and we are really excited Peyachew said the art piece, which is to be able to do this and there are so many titled Buffalo Run, speaks for itself when incredible mediums that are practiced with explaining the meaning of the buffalo for in theAboriginal artist community and they the prairie province. are very well represented on the bottles that “I thought it’sa good time celebrate this we have for display,” Mihailides said. magnificent animal at the Olympics where, The bottle will be auctioned off during probably,alotofthevisitorswouldnothave the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter ever seen such an animal which is such an Games. Proceeds will go towards the integral part of our history,” said Peyachew. Vancouver 2010AboriginalYouth Legacy He said his inspiration comes from Fund to support sport, culture, education teaching traditional arts at the First Nations and sustainability initiatives for all University of Canada. Aboriginal youth in Canada. JANUARY 2010 Eagle Feather News - Arts & Entertainment 17 More highs than lows among the peaks and valleys in a great ‘09
Every year each of us experience our of strange, cast of characters: a Bob fair share of ups and downs, peaks and Dylan-esque singer, a bearded country valleys, high and lows.Alot happens over boy playing the ukulele and banjo, a the span of 365 days. Here’s what stood hardcore punk bassist, a crazy fiddle out for me in 2009... player with even crazier hair, and a Movie of the Year: drummer who looked like he should be The Hangover. I never thought a playing in Matchbox 20. comedy could ever topAce Ventura (on What resulted was one of the most second thought maybe it doesn’t) but The awe-inspiring, jaw-dropping and Cashing In directorNorma Bailey (in orange hat) watches as special guest starDerek Hangover had it all. Even though you exhausting displays of music how it Miller (holding guitar) rehearses a scene. Cashing In airs February 23 onAPTN. could foresee what was coming next, the should be played: intense, thoughtful, cliches worked and every scene delivered daring and tight. Throughout a chubby little baby to an active, smart cancelled due to the economy. Enough hilarious turns, merry mix-ups and O’Death’s show, passers-by continu- and confident little boy tickles my said. But it didn’t kill us and I truly dialogue on the verge of raunchy without ously migrated to the small pub and heart strings on a daily basis. believe it made me a better writer while going too far. before long, there wasn’t an inch of Not only is the little bugger a opening doors on other opportunities. space to spare. By the end of their third highlight of the year, he’s the highlight And as I look forward to 2010, I encore, O’Death ran out of songs to of every day.And in March he’ll have welcome another year of ups and play for us. a baby sister! downs, highs and lows, peaks and Lucky for me, I purchased every Disappointment of the Year: valleys – experiencing the good and CD available and am able to relive that After writing 12 solid scripts, the bad makes us who we are. memorable night as often as I want. Rabbit Fall writing team was devas- Have a happy, safe and productive Highlight(s) of the Year: tated to learn the TV series was 2010!! Although I’ll never admit it to his face, since first pitching him a story I was even fortunate enough NOT to five years ago I’ve always looked up watch the trailer and had no idea Mike to the publisher of Eagle Feather News, Tyson was in the movie – singing In The John Lagimodiere. Air Tonight by Phil Collins no less! He’s a hardworking, take no guff If you haven’t seen it and are in the family man who enjoys life, provides mood for a whirlwind Vegas journey, rent opportunities for people and does more The Hangover – you won’t be disap- than his part to make Saskatoon a pointed. better place to live. Live Show of the Year: It was with great honor and admi- O’Death at Lydia’s. On a beautiful ration that I watched him accept the June evening I was driving back to 2009 Abex Award for Aboriginal Saskatoon from Regina. It was a rare Business of the Year. occasion – I was by myself. I know his partner, Dee, is respon- With the wife out camping with her sible for at least 51% of theAward but friends and the boy hanging with needless to say, it is a profound Grandma in Regina, I had the weekend to pleasure to work for and be friends do whatever I wanted. But the onset of with Johnny and Dee – they’re both boredom soon followed ... class acts. Once again, way to go! That is until my old friend Simon The year also afforded me the Moccasin called wanting to paint the opportunity to work with Jordan town. What started out as a night to review Wheeler – son of the late, great Eagle old scripts I had shelved months and even Feather columnist Bernelda Wheeler. years earlier, turned into one of the most He was hired as story editor for memorable live shows I had ever Cashing In Season II (which airs witnessed. February 23 on APTN – check local O’Death – a bluegrass/punk/country listings) and I have to admit I was a band from NewYork – was on a break little intimidated by the prospect – I from their tour with Les Claypool and heard rumors he rips the hearts out of decided to play a gig in Toon Town. writers who can’t deliver. They heard we had quite the music I decided to work tirelessly on my scene and were eager to find out for them- script so as to keep my heart safely in selves what made it so great. my chest and it worked! I can safely The minute Moccasin and I walked say Wheeler and I have a strong in, I was glued to the stage – these boys working relationship and I look could play! forward to future projects with him. O’Death is an eclectic, on-the-verge Watching my son, Luka, grow from 18 Eagle Feather News - Sports JANUARY 2010 Native Sons soccer team stresses positive lifestyle
By Blue Pelletier “A lot of these kids For Eagle Feather News have never left the country he tryouts started in or their reserves,” explains August.And when it Bugler. “It’s important to was all said and done show them where sports the Native Sons Soccer can take them. They are TTeam was formed. The team amazing soccer players. is made up of 18 and 19 year And through sport and olds who are the best First culture they will see there Nation soccer players the is another way to succeed province has to offer. in life. They currently play in “Hopefully they can all the 3rd Division of the come back and be leaders Saskatoon Men’s Turf in their community,” he League and are tied for says. first. The team is struggling This team will travel to to garner funding for the Europe in the summer for trip. They have done three tournaments, the numerous fundraising Gothia Cup in Sweden, and efforts such as steak nights, the Dana and Brandby Cup The Native Sons team includes: From Beardy’s and Okemasis First Nation: Troy Okemaysim, Dwayne Fox, selling food and the FSIN in Denmark. Bradon Gardypie, Tyson Desjarlais, Nathan Baldhead, Lucas Seesesquasis, Dustin Mike, Raymond Soccer Championships, All the members of the Cameron. From Poundmaker First Nation: Dakota Tootoosis, Tanner Tootoosis, Shane Antoine. From Big and banquet dinners. team signed contracts and River First Nation: Quentin Dreaver (captain) Wally Rabbitskin, Tyrone Thomas, Eric Johnstone, Jedner The next one will be agreed to stay in school, Morin, Mike Bear, Brody Morin, Ryan Morin. From Little Pine First Nation: Tanin Nighttraveller, Scott January 30. The team will live a drug and alcohol free Sokapwanace. From Red Pheasant First Nation: Jordan Nighttraveller. From Mosquito (Lean Man, have a banquet dinner and lifestyle, and to be good Grizzly Bear Head) First Nation: Brennan Wahobin. From Thunderchild First Nation: Jackson Graham. the Dirt Road Maniacs will citizens in their respective From Starblanket First Nation: Andrew Starblanket. Métis Nation: Blade Bray. From Waterhen First Na- be performing. The event communities. tion: Cody Fiddler, Mikwan Mistickokat. From Muskeg Lake First Nation: Tony Greyeyes. will be at the Saskatoon While in Europe the Indian and Métis Friend- players will be showcasing First remainder will be dancing for all those Bugler was at the North American ship Centre. Nations culture. Some of the team will in attendance. Indigenous Games and recognized how For tickets call Coach Corey Bugler be drumming and singing while the The idea came when coach Corey good Saskatchewan was at soccer. at (306) 292-2237. JANUARY 2010 Eagle Feather News - Sports 19 Big River boxer suffers bad break Canada falls hings seem to be healing fast and it seems to be on the mend,” says Big River’s Stu Twardzik. short at 2010 “TAfter breaking a bone in his hand, the 2008 Junior National Boxing Champion at 155 lbs, is quite optimistic he will be able to fight at Nationals this year on World Juniors January 25-30. If he doesn’t, he will lose his oppor- lThe 2010 World Junior Hockey tunity to make the National team. And Tournament was supposed to be Canada’s worse, a chance to train with them for the to win.And after going undefeated all the 2012 Olympics. way to the Gold Medal game things He says “it really sucks, it’s an cert ainly seemed that way. important year for me I wanted to rack up But the boys from south of the border international experience and get some ended our party. In what was a definite exposure.” classic, team USA won a 6-5 overtime Twardzik says not all will be lost if he thriller. doesn’t get a chance to fight this year at The game went back and forth.And Nationals. He would still have two years with just a few minutes remaining it left to make the National Team before the looked like the game was over. That’s 2012 Olympics. when Kid Canada Jordan Eberle took But he would rather lose that chance over. He scored two goals in a matter of in the ring and not because of injury. He minutes and sent the game to overtime. wants to fight, but won’t risk his career to Eberle, who was named the tourna- Stu Twardzik’s dream of making the National boxing team suffered a blow when do it this year at Nationals. The final ment’s MVP came up big once again. He the Big River boxer broke a bone in his hand. decision on whether or not he fights will has a knack for scoring the big goal and is come down to him. Canada’s all-time leader in goals at the happened to Jonathon Cheechoo and three more cups … UFC is here to stay Stu is also the 2008 World Common- World Juniors. Jordin Tootoo? …The Penquins are just and if you haven’t become a fan yet, start wealth Youth Games Champion at 155 In overtime, John Carlson ended like the Oilers of the ‘80s, and will win watchin! lbs. He trains out of the Big River Boxing Canada’s hopes of winning a record sixth Club. straight gold medal in this tournament. His wrist shot all but silenced the arena and the thousands of Canadian fans in 2010 BRIT attendance at Credit Union Centre in Saskatoon were stunned. Team USAwill look to repeat next year when the tournament will be played
By Blue Pelletier Midget AAA League in For Eagle Feather News scoring with 62 points t may have been a disappointing tour- including 29 goals thus far. nament for Team Canada West at the At the World Hockey Under 17 World Hockey Challenge. Challenge he finished just But for Two Saskatchewan-born players behind Dumais with five Ithe experience was once in a lifetime. points. Wilson Dumais of the Peter Ballan- tyne First Nation and Todd Fiddler of Waterhen not only played on the team but on the team’s top line. For Dumais it was a learning experi- ence. “I had a bad attitude before I left, it helped change me and I am doing what I can now to become a better hockey player,” says Dumais. “It was a great experience to play against really good international players.” And friends and coaches have noticed a difference in him since he returned to Tisdale, where he plays for the Trojans of Wilson Dumais and the Saskatchewan Midget AAA Hockey Todd Fiddler were League. integral members of When Team West hit the ice for their the Team Canada first game Dumais was put on the fourth West team at the line. That lasted till about midway through Under 17 World the second period when his coach saw something in him and put him next to Hockey Challenge. Fiddler. He responded by notching four goals in the tournament to go along with “I would like to make it to the NHL three assists. but if not I would like to go to school,” Next year he plans to play for the Fiddler says. Prince George Cougars of the WHL and Both Fiddler and Dumais stand about says his game is sort of like that of Mike 5’10 and weigh in at around 185 lbs. But Richards of the Philadelphia Flyers. their games are slightly different. While His linemate and friend, Todd Fiddler, Dumais doesn’t mind getting his nose also loved the experience. dirty and has the skill to put the puck in “It was a fun challenge playing the net, Fiddler is more of a scorer. But against such good players.” they enjoy playing on the same line and Fiddler plays for the Beardy’s Black- who k nows they just may get that chance hawks and is leading the Saskatchewan in the NHL some day.
Jacquie Lavallee lit the Olympic cauldron in Saskatoon. Lavallee is a teacher at Oskayak High School in Saskatoon. (Photo: Gabriel Dumont Institute)