JANUARY 2018 VOLUME 21 - NUMBER 1

FREE Sasakamoose scores Order of Canada medal

Fred Sasakamoose carried an Eagle Staff from Duck Lake to Saskatoon over four days to open the Truth and Reconciliation Commission National Gathering in 2012. Leadership like that has led Freddie to receive the order of Canada. (Photo by John Lagimodiere)

IN THE RUNNING? Chief Bobby Cameron has yet to announce whether or not he’ll be seeking another terms as Chief of the FSIN. - Page 3

ROYAL TREATMENT artists and musicians are getting ready for a great year in 2018. - Pag e 6

GETTING IT RIGHT Eagle Feather News talked to some folks who made New Year’s resolutions last year. Here’s their update. - Page 12

LEANNE’S A QC Saskatoon lawyer Leanne Belle - garde has received the pres - tigous designation of Queen’s Council . - Page 14 LIGHTING IT UP This Prince Albert electrician has By Chelsea Laskowski After a few more phone calls, Sasakamoose says launched his own business and For Eagle Feather News he came to understand that the Order of Canada is one has switched on a successful Weeks ago, when Fred Sasakamoose found out he of the highest honours in the country, which symbolizes venture . - P age 14 was becoming a member of the Order of Canada, he “what it takes to give a portion of your life to your com - nearly hung up on the woman on the other end of the line. munities.” At first, Sasakamoose thought the woman was Sasakamoose is known in Saskatchewan for pro - The Year in Preview Edition trying to sell him something. Her attempts to explain the moting sports to Indigenous kids, and is best-known Coming In February - Health & Wellness Issue Order of Canada, an honour in “white society” that across Canada for being the first Aboriginal NHL Sasakamoose was unfamiliar with, were made more player. CPMA #40027204 confusing when she started speaking French. • Continued on Page 2 Eagle Feather News JANUARY 2018 B2eing outspoken is a duty to youth, Sasakamoose believes

• Continued from Page One puck for the game after a special ceremony where it was support as well,” he says, because “that’s what our Nearly 63 years ago Sasakamoose played the first announced that he is one of the 86 people across the young people need nowadays to become successful.” of his 11 games with the over two Sasakamoose recently asked higher-ups at the Oil - seasons. He knows his NHL career was brief before re - ers to donate 30 tickets for Ahtahkakoop youth to attend turning home to Ahtahkakoop Nation, but his an Oilers and Colorado Avalanche game in early Feb - memories of that time are strong. He recalls that his ruary. self-described “red skin” didn’t make any difference on The kids will do a morning skate while in the city, the ice. watch practice, and meet players like Connor McDavid, “That’s where it started my life, not to think of Sasakamoose says. He says at first, he was told his re - yourself highly but to be able to participate, to (know) quest was too great, but he insisted. that you could play the same level of hockey (as oth - “A lot of times I feel like I’m a pain in the ass to ers).” a lot of people but it’s what it gives me to do,” he says. Sasakamoose At 84, Sasakamoose’s schedule is full. He travels says as a St. all over Canada to speak to kids, including an upcom - Michael’s Indian ing trip to Moose Factory, Ontario to speak about the Residential School power of sports, and grants all interview requests that student, he was come his way. Above, Freddie shows his grand - given a second-level He takes pains to represent his people with children the holy grail of hockey. education. Sports, strength and to watch his language, but he does not want Left, Freddie was honoured by the though, were a great to hide his past mistakes. Edmonton Oilers in January equalizer and he “I think the role model of your life, sometimes a where he dropped the ceremonial says through hockey lot of people think you’re an angel, but you’re not,” he first puck at a game. “I gained the closest says. relationship with all country to become a member of the He is so outspoken now, he says, because it’s his sports people, with Order of Canada. duty to let “our young people in the future, (know) people itself.” Wuttunee, who is now presi - they could do better than me ... to have somebody say Sheldon Wut - dent and CEO of Saskatchewan ‘Well, you know, I want to be like Freddie. Well, Fred - tunee of Red Pheas - Natural Resource Cen - die was not the best, but he was the first, but also, I ant Cree Nation re - tre of Excellence, says Sasakamoose could do better.’” members Sasakamoose looking on as he learned to was a role model to him as he played hockey growing Even for himself, Sasakamoose had wanted to get skate as a young boy at Sandy Lake. At the end of De - up. to the Olympics to play hockey. While that wasn’t in the cember, Wuttunee was among those to join “Even though I didn’t make the NHL I still gained cards for him, he says he hopes by pushing for people Sasakamoose at Edmonton Oilers centre ice at a game some great opportunities through the game of hockey to give opportunities to young Indigenous people that against the Blackhawks. Sasakamoose dropped the and now I guess the onus is on me to help give back and he will make a change for the better. Eagle Feather News JANUARY 2018 3 Political junkies certain to get their fix in 2018

By NC Raine riginal governments,” he says. tion issues, education and suicide pre - For Eagle Feather News “It will be interesting to see what vention initiatives carrying on into 2018, From shocking decisions by foreign position they take regarding our people,” the future Chief will have his or her governments, to major announcements added Winston McLean, political colum - hands full working with the FSIN. from Saskatchewan's provincial govern - nist at Eagle Feather News, who says re - “The challenge is being relevant,” ment, 2017 was one of the more memo - building the economy will be the new said McLean. “For the last decade, espe - rable, and sometimes alarming, political premier’s biggest challenge. cially under Harper when all the funding years in recent memory. “Will they take a more progressive was cut, a lot of talent was lost. With 2017 now firmly in the rear- view about getting us engaged in the “Now the question is becoming, can view, its time to turn our attention to economy and education system so we the (FSIN) make itself relevant and ef - some of the major political stories to can all prosper together?” fective like it was in the ‘70s and ‘80s?” watch for in Saskatchewan in 2018. Ken Cheveldayoff, Tina Beaudry- The province’s first, and perhaps Mellor, Gord Wyant, Alanna Koch, and most significant political event of the Scott Moe are the five candidates com - year, comes on Jan. 27, as the peting to replace Wall. With less than Saskatchewan three weeks left in the leadership race, Party elects a there are no clear-cut favourites to win. new premier to The New Democrats in replace the retir - Saskatchewan will likewise have some ing Brad Wall, new faces, as they elect a new leader on who served the March 3. party for ten The two leadership candidates, years. The Sask. Trent Wotherspoon and Ryan Meili, have Party faces quite similar platforms, including calling some daunting for more protection for Crown corpora - challenges after tions, a $15 minimum wage, and the pro - BRAD WALL a budget that cut tection of local voices in health care. spending and “They are fairly evenly matched. I increased taxes, think each candidate has a constituency and a $1.2 bil - within the party that supports their par - lion deficit. ticular vision and style,” said Garcea. “They “But the really interesting thing that have to find has emerged is interim leader Nicole Sa - someone who is rauer ... and to what extent she will be - acceptable and come a de facto leader even though she appealing first might not be the official leader.” to the majority Sarauer has maintained that she will of the caucus, not enter the leadership race, but Garcea then to the elec - believes she is a person to watch for the GORD WYANT torate, which is future of the NDP leadership. a challenge in In late July, the Métis Nation – light of the high Saskatchewan will hold a long awaited standards of ap - legislative assembly. It will be the first peal and accept - MNLA in three years. ability that Mr. Questions of leadership legitimacy Wall enjoyed,” have long plagued the MN-S, with such said Joe Garcea, questions hampering the efficiency and Political Sci - effectiveness of government and their ence Professor ability to provide services to members, at the Univer - says Garcea. sity of “One hopes that an assembly can be Saskatchewan. accomplished where the focus is on sub - KEN CHEVELDAYOFF Garcea stantive issues rather than leadership le - says to look for gitimacy issues,” he says. the Sask. Party to lean towards a candi - “It will be interesting to see if they date who is best placed within the party can have an assembly where they get on to adopt a team approach rather than rul - with the more important issues of the ing by individual will. He also says that needs of their members.” the new leader will have work to do with Finally, in October, the Federation Indigenous leaders in the province. of Sovereign Indigenous Nations (FSIN) “Whoever becomes leader and pre - will elect a new Chief. No candidates mier will have to think about what kind have yet been announced, including if of relationship they believe the provincial current Chief Bobby Cameron will seek government should have with the Abo - re-election. But with treaty land obliga - Eagle Feather News 4 JANUARY 2018 We need more community champions

There is little doubt that 2018 is going to be a year ers Centre at Station 20 West, a place that made a differ - stantially in where leadership at all levels of the community will be so ence to her when she was a new mother. Our writer An - the past important. dréa Ledding did a great article on Janelle and the two years. The year will be challenging. Times are tough. Gov - Mothers Centre for our website. Now ernment has been cutting. Natural resources prices are Janelle was having a tough time after her first baby. they hustle low. Too many of our children are in care and poverty in - “I got the support I needed to be a healthier mother for every dollar. Fundraisers, BBQs, fall suppers, selling dicators are worsening. and to make better choices,” said Thomas of the Centre items online and even a GoFundMe Page are on the And to top it off, before the end of January, the Ger - that according to her offers breastfeeding support, sewing agenda, turning every rock to find funds to keep the place ald Stanley trial begins in Battleford. He is the man classes, cooking classes, book studies, and nonviolent running. Donations are coming in and the public has re - charged with second-degree murder in the August 2016 communication parenting groups. They also supply food, acted well, but everyday is a struggle. And remember, death of 22-year-old Colten Boushie, a member of the a space for visiting and child and baby supplies. most of these people are volunteers. Red Pheasant First Nation, an event that polarized our province and exposed a lot of racism. Big issues like the these shine the spotlight on our high-profile political leaders. We will have a new premier by the time the trial starts and he or she will have to have a steady and pragmatic hand to take the reins in a tumul - tuous time. Chief Bobby Cameron and the team at the Federa - tion of Sovereign Indigenous Nations will also be looked at for leadership as these high-profile issues will be played out in the media. It’s a hard part of their job and that’s why we elect them. We turn to them at times like this. No pressure folks, but we really need the A Game from you all in 2018. Our politicians can’t do their jobs alone though. Whether you are an academic, a writer, a coach, welder or business owner we all have to chip in one way or an - other. Help out. Willie Littlechild, who has served in a number of high-profile positons, including on the Truth and Recon - ciliation Commission and the Commission on First Na - tions and Métis People and Justice Reform, challenged us to be “Champions for Change”. He knew the positive changes that are essential to improving the lives of In - digenous people were going to come from within. Per - haps, as a former Member of Parliament, he knew better than anyone that we can’t wait for government to legis - late change. Janelle Thomas, seen here holding her son Kirion, has gone from being a client at the Mother’s Centre to peer Community champions can help move agendas and mentor and is now a member of the board of directors of the organization. The Centre is currently on a build bridges sometimes better than politicians because fundraising campaign so they can continue their important work supporting mothers and their new born the relationships and hard work have to happen at the babies. (Photo by Andrea Ledding) grassroot and neighbor to neighbour level on a day to day basis. Because of the help she received from the Centre, They do this because it matters. Janelle does it to I dig community champions. Janelle wanted to return the favour. She became a peer give back and because she still needs to continue receiv - Often overlooked in the big picture are folks in lead - mentor and hostess and then went on to become a mem - ing support for her and her son Kirion. ership like Janelle Thomas. Sometimes you don’t see or ber of the board of directors. And she and her fellow Premier, Chief, President, board member, volunteer. read about them but Thomas is one of the unsung heroes board members are having to work real hard. Right now, Leaders. 2018 will need them. Support them. Or be one. who is playing a strong role in lifting up our community. they too are victims of the economy and are struggling to Help out. Janelle is. Janelle is a board member of the Saskatoon Moth - keep the doors open after having had their budget cut sub - The more the merrier. Eagle Feather News JANUARY 2018 5 Enough silence, we need to talk about violence In my last column (November) I in - thought loved me. And I wasn’t the only that by the age of eight I believed a tooth - (e) That they have stomach aches, feel vited people to write their thoughts on one. I remember sitting around with girl - brush and an orange made you human? I nauseas when they sense tension. Louise Halfe’s article about violence and friends after a particularly bad time and remember sitting around with a group Does any of that sound familiar? also about the violence in our lives, our we’d joke about it. of people a few years ago reminiscing Was, is that you? Is that your child? communities and in particular between “Oh, I see you and your old man about childhood, and one of the men said I said we were given traditional men and women. were making love again last night. Yeah, how much he hated Dick and Jane and I said I would give my column in we sure were. So hard I banged my face just wanted to beat the crap out of them this newspaper. on the wall.” when he was in Grade 2 because they We never I did that hoping it would begin a No kidding, had everything. much-needed conversation but there those kinds of They were hu - talked about the were no takers. Two people thanked me comments were man, we were savage. for offering but didn’t send anything. So, common among We all laughed but I incredible shame what’s up? Are we in denial or are we be - women of my don’t think there was ing “traditional” and practicing non-in - generation. We’d one of us who did not we felt, not terference by ignoring what is happening laugh and make feel the same way at and why it is happening. jokes about it as one time or another in among each How can we begin to deal with this we cleaned each our young lives. if we’re not prepared to speak about it? other up or The Penfield We all know that not speaking about it helped each other hide out till things Children’s Centre in Milwaukee does other or with the will feed the Witiko. I know I don’t want cooled down. amazing work with kids who have been to talk about it. It’s easier to talk about an Why? Because that was the only traumatized by domestic violence. They men we loved and outsider’s violence against me or us be - way we could bear it. Sure, sometimes write that children who are or have been cause then I can remain the victim and we’d vent, be angry and threaten all sorts raised in violence are (a) more alert, have who loved us. not take responsibility for my own self or of things but we never talked about why higher adrenaline levels and are more teachings, and love by our old people, stuff or for changing it. we went back. We never talked about easily triggered; (b) That they exhibit but no tools to help us deal with the vio - the hope we had that this time if we went impulsivity and hyperactivity and are of - lence. Today very few of our children back and tried again, it would be differ - ten diagnosed ADAD; (c) they have de - have that. They are in government care, ent. layed speech or areas of development being raised in homes where there is very Are we in And we never talked about the in - because they are constantly trying to little if any, love, teachings, life tools, credible shame we felt, not among each keep themselves or other family mem - anything. denial or are we other or with the men we loved and who bers safe and are therefore not able to de - So, we need to do something, any - loved us. velop typically; (d) they self-blame and thing. So, come on, please, write some - being I know it sounds crazy to say the withdraw, act timid or are frightened thing, anything. We have to talk about it. men we loved or who loved us, but I even when violence is not happening; It’s time. Hiy hiy, Maarsi. “traditional” know I loved my late husband and I know he loved me but both of us grew up in horrific violence and we didn’t know and practicing how to live a different way. We didn’t have the tools. non-interference We had traditional teachings be - cause both of us grew up with them and by ignoring again that sounds crazy. If there was vi - olence how can I say we grew up tradi - tionally? what is But we did, as again did many peo - ple of my generation. We had old people happening and who taught us, talked to us and tried to help us through the chaos, trauma and why it is fear. Traditional teachings were the only thing they had to give us, and their love, happening. but it wasn’t enough because times were changing so fast and we needed addi - There are many sides to violence in tional tools to understand what was hap - our families and communities, my side, pening. the abusers side, the family’s side, and Displacement, dispossession, alco - then there are the communities. No, I hol, there is nothing I can think of that have not forgotten about all the faces of didn’t arrive in our community once the colonization but I can’t do much about road and radio came in. that Witiko till I have confronted it and And then there was the shame. That chased it out of my life, my home and my was, I believe, the most powerful Witiko community. of all. I hate it, even today I know what Then and only then can I be strong it feels like, smells like and looks like. It enough to work with everybody else who was for half of my life, the gasoline that has done the same thing to make sure it fueled all the anger and hurt of child - does not come back in to pollute our hood, because I knew as a child, that bodies, our children and our land ever what was happening was not our fault, I again. didn’t know why, but I knew, and for Like you, I know deep inside of me that I felt shame. that no healing or moving past will hap - Shame because our parents didn’t pen if I don’t do it or at least try. fight it, shame because our fathers didn’t I am one of those women who has work, couldn’t speak English “properly”. been slapped around, punched out and As a child, the list that made “hu - put down by men I have loved and I mans” seemed endless. Do you know Eagle Feather News 6 JANUARY 2018 Arts calendar will be bursting in 2018

By Andréa Ledding “It’s not a straight up history lesson Nolan notes that two contemporary For Eagle Feather News but a way of making history fun. The exhibitions are opening at Wanuskewin There is little doubt that 2018 prom - audiences in and Ottawa have Jan. 13, When Raven Became Spider and ises to be full of great art. attested to its power.” We the North. Meanwhile, she is busy Next up for Gordon Tootoosis Williams will be in Saskatoon Jan. reading ten-minute plays submitted for Nikaniwin Theatre is a co-production 19 and 20 for Writing North, a writing the October Short Cuts Festival that she with Persephone Theatre and Troupe du event which will also feature Nisga’a au - founded four years ago; every year it’s Jour: Gabriel Dumont’s Wild West Show, thor/editor Jordan Abel. featured a play by an Indigenous writer. Krystle Pederson is Montana Madeleine Feb. 27 to March 4. Yvette Nolan, another of the ten “We are working to keep that streak in Gabriel Dumont’s Wild West Show. “It involves 10 writers from across playwrights of the Wild West Show – alive, and the deadline is not until Jan. Canada who are First Nations, Métis, others include Andrea Menard and PJ 15,” notes Nolan. from Six Nations, formerly of A Tribe French and English,” explains one of the Prudat – says she’s really looking for - She is also excited to see Jennifer Called Red. co-writers, Cree playwright Kenneth ward to seeing how Gabriel Dumont’s Dawn Bishop at the helm of GTNT as “We look forward to taking advan - Williams. Wild West Show premieres in English. artistic director. Bishop is looking for - tage of the whole month of February, “The idea came about when French “I have seen it twice, in French, in ward to seeing the Wild West Show, fol - which is Aboriginal Storytellers Month – Canadian theatre artists, Alexis Martin Montreal, but never in English and of lowed by the Circle of Voices show Pi - Dnoigrnmiatallryi ews eh jeulpste do c oenleeb wraeteek t.”h e and Jean Marc Dalpe wondered why Riel course, the knowledge here about the matisiwin by Curtis Peeteetuce March 8 grandT ohpeye nminagd eb yth peo duercinisgio an ctuop spread was mostly forgotten in Quebec.” Métis history is so different from what it to 16; and of course, the GTNT play - oefv ceonftfse oev. e( Pr htohteo cboy uJresaen eollfe tMhea nmdeosn) th in - During their research they learned is out east,” noted Nolan, who sent the house starting up this month, which stead, and to bring in more partners in the about Gabriel Dumont’s time in Buffalo rehearsing company a box of bison pem - works with young actors in schools. community. The U of R is going to be an - Bill’s Wild West Show and how im - mican and several copies of Marilyn Du - The Winterruption festival will be other major partner along with the stu - pressed he was with the impact that kind mont’s poetry book The Pemmican taking place on Broadway Jan. 18 to 21 dent centre; other funders include the of entertainment had on an audience. Du - Eaters. and will include a storyteller’s tent and Canada Council, Saskatchewan Arts mont wanted to create his own version of “I am also really excited to see Theatre on the Trail co-created by Danny Board, City of Regina, and the Multi - the Wild West Show, so this was a way to Krystle Pederson playing Montana Knight, Aaron-Marie Nepoose, Kevin cultural Council of SK. bring that idea to life in a modern con - Madeleine in front of hometown audi - Wesaquate, and others. “Maybe one day every First Nation text. Most of the story centres around ences.” In Regina, Sakewewak Storytellers all over the province will be highlighting the 1885 Resistance. Nolan describes the show as “a Festival will be taking place for the en - their own local storytellers and events “It will be something they’ve never spectacular spectacle” adding that with tire month of February, says Executive during February,” said Martin, adding seen before,” promises Williams. “The ten Métis, Cree, Algonquin, Francophone Director Adam Martin. that other events on his radar include entire show is a variety of mini-plays of and Anglophone writers, “the act of mak - “We’ll open with two days of work - Prince Albert artist Michel Boutin’s different styles and genres. There’s mu - ing it was a bit of a model for reconcili - shops Feb. 1 and 2, in partnership with Saskatoon exhibition at Art Placement sic, dream sequences, game shows, ation … everyone working to see from SaskCulture,” said Martin. Jan. 22 with an opening reception in Feb - satire, melodrama, and comedy. each other’s perspectives.” One of the presenters is DJ Shub ruary.

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sheribenson.ndp.ca JANUARY 2018 Eagle Feather News 7 Keep saying it ... winter isn’t that bad

This last cold spell almost gave including, “I’m hungry,” “Car - me a panic attack. toons!”, “I’m tired,” and “the cat is On the third minus 30 day, I looking at me funny.”) opened the front door, stuck my head During the worst of the cold out and was forced back inside by the bit - ing cold. It’s a horrible feeling knowing that you cannot go any - where – it’s like being trapped in a haunted house surrounded by wolves and sharks and the only board game available is spell, I saw some of my friends post - RISK. ing pics from Mexico and I cheered Then I remembered that I have them on like I’m lying on my great Internet, cable and enough deathbed. As I glimpsed their photos Triscuit crackers to get me through of sunny days lounging around a three winters. (And I would never pool, I was typing tearfully into the allow RISK into my house anyway computer: “You go live life: you so …) dance in that sand, you drink those But weather can get you down mojitos, you wallow in that gua - because it increases the difficulty of camole. It’s too late for me.” life exponentially. I’m already haul - When it’s this bad, it does make ing around a slippery toddler so life you wonder, how did those old peo - is challenging most days. It’s so cold ple survive on the prairies during a in Saskatchewan, that we have cold spell? I’m sure the answer is weather related terms like wind-chill equal parts toughness and gigantic which is a fancy way of saying that buffalo coats. I don’t have either but the air hurts your face. I do have these tips: Do you think people in Aus - 1. Buy in bulk – and I mean tralia know about wind-chill? No. If everything. The more food and other they heard the term they would think essentials that you buy the better that our wind is just really laid back. chance you won’t have to run out at But we get to hear, on a regular 10 p.m. in a frigid whiteout to buy basis, weather people cheerfully toilet paper. make pronouncements like: “Hey 2. Invest in warm stuff – I everyone, it’s minus 25 with a wind- know when you were a kid, your chill of minus 40 so exposed skin mom probably said that you could will freeze in 30 seconds.” And they stuff your thin jacket with newspaper are not fear-mongering, I was search - and that would keep you warm. It ing for my car plug-in one morning does not. And it makes you super- and my face froze like a Beverly flammable especially if you are a Hills trophy wife/husband. smoker. So, save those old issues of Nothing works in this weather. Eagle Feather and get yourself a Take my vehicle – in cold weather warm coat, preferably something the following has happened to me: a filled with down. And nothing can battery froze (that was plugged in), compensate for quality mitts and two of my tires went flat in the same gloves when you have to touch night, and the defrost just decided to metal. Bare skin and metal is the ul - stop working. Even if your vehicle timate clingy relationship – painful does you the great favour of starting, to stay, difficult to extricate your - you’re basically driving a block of self. ice until you reach your destination. 3. Take hot showers – Sounds Everything that used to take crazy but it works. I learned this tip “just a sec” now takes ten times from a guy who was into winter run - longer. You can’t pop out the door ning. He would take a hot shower with a light jacket and some sneak - before going out for his run and ers. would stay toasty through the run. Trips to the grocery store take So, it’s a good tip. Here’s another planning – layers of clothing that im - good tip: winter-running is insane. pede your movement like a wetsuit. In any event, its only two more Then if you have kids – they gotta be months of true winter left and then stuffed into the same outfit while we can go back to collectively de - yelling, “NO, NO, NO, NO!” (In tod - luding ourselves that winter isn’t all dler-ese, “no” has several meanings that bad. Eagle Feather News 8 JANUARY 2018 Students learning practical skills during construction of Montreal Lake greenhouse

By Chelsea Laskowski rest of the four-season, off-grid For Eagle Feather News greenhouse. Christina Waditaka’s first time be - Teacher Christina Lorentz helped hind the wheel of a skid steer was a initiate the greenhouse project, and said game-changer. the students transformed over the course Just a few hours earlier, the Montreal of the two-day foundation work. Some Lake Cree Nation Grade 12 student had showed up late on the first day and were been so intimidated by the prospect of han - unexcited during classroom safety dling the machine that she nearly backed learning, but by the time they got out to out of the skid steer training taking place at the Camp Hope site they became fo - Senator Allen Bird Memorial School. cused and driven. Christina Waditaka had quite the eventful first time driving a skid steer. Her ex - perience though has inspired her to learn to drive all sorts of heavy machinery. manager Simon Pollard said this was a housed the Almita workers while they change of pace for his company, which is were there. usually driven on making money, but “They looked after us,” Pollard their volunteer work was well worth it said. when they saw the look of pride on the He said he’d hire a handful of the young people’s faces. most eager students he worked with “in Pollard said any preconceived no - a heartbeat. I don’t know what the issue tions people may have had about First is with people’s perspectives on not hir - Nations communities went out the win - ing First Nations people. I just don’t.” dow when they got to Montreal Lake. Principal Simon Bird said he is The community was hospitable, provided grateful for Almita’s generosity, which a fish feast and moose meat, wrangled up included giving the teens free hats, hood - steel-toed boots for the students, and ies, and certificates for their hard work.

The group of Montreal Lake students proudly show their new hoodies and certificates from Almita Piling. But she stuck it out, and within 24 Even when it snowed, the students hours Waditaka was taking charge of the showed up ready and willing to work. vehicle and drilling deep into the ground “Quite often in schools we lose to install what’s called a helical pile – a our students because it’s all book - steel pipe designed to stay anchored in work, we’re sitting down and they’re rough terrain – that will act as the foun - forced to just memorize things. And I dation for a greenhouse for the commu - think this opportunity really allowed nity. our students to get in there and get The foundation-laying work Wa - their hands dirty. They learned skills ditaka and around a dozen Grade 10, that they’ll take with them for the 11 and 12 classmates did this fall rest of their lives,” Lorentz said. makes up Phase 1 of a two-phase The entire project was made possi - greenhouse build at Camp Hope, about ble through a partnership with the school, 10 minutes outside Montreal Lake. community and the non-profit group Fo - For Waditaka, whose family is cus Forward for Indigenous Youth already quite handy, the confidence (FFIY). Lorentz had been in contact with she gained over those two days Evan Veryard, founder of FFIY, who had opened her eyes to a whole new ca - proposed building a greenhouse, and of - reer opportunity. fered guidance and resources to provide “I want to learn how to drive, hands-on learning for young people in not just skid steers, all kinds of the community. trucks. Like, heavy equipment trucks, From there, construction company those would be nice to drive,” she Almita Piling’s president Bill Baillie vol - said. unteered his staff and equipment for Waditaka will get a chance to Phase 1 to give the teens two days of use heavy equipment this spring, training and first-hand construction ex - when she and other community mem - perience. bers spend two weeks building the Almita Saskatchewan’s regional JANUARY 2018 Eagle Feather News 9 Winterruption guaranteed to take the chill off those frosty Saskatchewan winter days

By Andréa Ledding “This year there are 23 live per - For Eagle Feather News formances in nine venues over four days Looking for something to break up and we’re adding amazing free outdoor the mid-January doldrums of winter? events for the first time ever,” explained Look no further than the third an - Kirby Wirchenko of the Broadway The - nual Winterruption Festival taking over atre. the Broadway Theatre and outdoors be - “We set up the storytelling tipi be - hind Victoria School Jan. 18-21 in Saska - hind Victoria school with the partner - Danny Knight, Aaron-Marie Nepoose and Kevin Wesaquate are all performing toon. ship of Wanuskewin, the Saskatoon Pub - at the Winterruption Festival January 18-21 at the Broadway Theatre and out - lic School’s First Nations Inuit and Metis doors at the Victoria School. (Photo by Andrea Ledding) Education Unit and Victoria School,” said Wirchenko. “Something I’m really excited house on the longest coldest month of the The storytelling tipi will feature sto - about is the insulated mobile hot drinks: year,” says Wirchenko. rytellers every half hour on Friday coffee, tea, and hot chocolate in insu - “There's an appetite for it and it's evening and Saturday from 2-3 in the lated backpacks. The tea is birch bark tea cool to have something to look forward afternoon onto the evening, and Sunday from Wanuskewin,” Wirchenko noted. to in January.” from 12 to 4. The storytellers them - Sum Theatre is also doing Theatre Kevin Wesaquate says both the selves are a mix of Indigenous story - on the Trail on the riverbank on Jan. 18 Theatre on the Trail and the Storytelling tellers and new Canadians. Programming to 20 in the evenings, co-created with tent will be enjoyable for audiences of all was aided by the City of Saskatoon Cul - Danny Knight, Andréa Ledding, Aaron- ages. tural Office. Marie Nepoose, Kevin Wesaquate, and “I'm bringing the IPS to the story - “On Friday and Saturday night, new Canadians from China and Syria. tellers tent, which should be a great ex - around 9:30 p.m., we’re going to close On Saturday there’s a new Canadian perience for us,” said Wesaquate. the night with Kevin Wesaquate from signing ceremony inside Victoria “I give thanks for the blessings of the Indigenous Poets’ Society.” School’s gym, with the actual signing being able to tell stories through poetry With hay bales inside of the tipi for inside the tipi. and spoken word. I am pretty proud of warmth and seating, he is guessing just There are plays at the Refinery, per - myself in doing my part to revitalize an over 20 people will fit inside at one time, formances at Emmanuel Church and ancient tradition. Not only that, but en - so it’s first come first served. There will Louis’ on campus, along with shows at couraging others to follow my example also be free sleigh rides on 11th Street Amigo’s, Vangeli’s, the Bassment, and and having fun with it at the same time.” and outdoor firepits for warming, along Troupe du Jour. Mohawk musician Tom Wesaquate says his visual art will with food providers with hot food. Wilson will be launching his book Beau - also appear as mural boards on the The - SCYAP is doing face painting in a heated tiful Scars. atre on the Trail installation. tent, and there’s a cyclists outdoor win - “It’s a wide variety of events that in - “I hope many people come out to ter riding clinic. terrupts winter and gets them out of their listen to stories and walk on the trail.” Eagle Feather News 10 JANUARY 2018 Fearless predictions for 2018

John L.: Apparently because I never ment must wait. But if you vote for Dirk: Don’t bother me with facts, then tell us he cannot deliver until learn, I have once again asked none us next time, well, just watch as all John. It’s been proven in 79.35 per the next election. But he will do it other than Dirk Dashing to illuminate the wonderful goodies rain down cent of studies that facts can be used nicely and we’ll buy it because we us on what to expect in 2018. Dirk, the like Woolworth’s condom mints to prove almost anything, and they are so focused on his incredible hair. world seems to have become a strange from the heavens. often get in the way of a good story. And do not underestimate Sen. Lynn place. I’m glad to have you here. John L.: Wait, I think there is a typo in John L.: Apologies, Dirk. Please con - Beyak. Between that vapid, empty Dirk: Thank you, John. Given the that last statement of yours, Dirk. tinue. smile and flouncy Walmart bottom Trump factor, global terrorism, and Dirk: Sure. Dirk: … and Innuvia did not exist in is a heart of rabid yogurt just ready Kanye West, the Trudeau govern - John L.: It’s ok, we’ll get that in edit - 1964 because we were still using the to race through your insides. She’ll ment has decided to chuck 2018 and ing. But to return to your claim that politically incorrect Eskimotania. be big in 2018. Over in Canada’s re-do 1964. Because of this there is Trudeau government is being decep - We know better now, John. We’ve basement, Trump will continue to no need to issue predictions for the evolved. But most important? The bedazzle the public with his outra - coming year. snow-cone machines? They. Did. geous hillbilly comments and be - John L.: That hardly seems reasonable Not. Arrive… haviour while he pursues his true nor possible. Even if the Canadian John L.: Um… agenda. But Oprah’s coming for government had a time machine 2018 Dirk (wiping a tear away): … our him, so the battle that starts this would still take place, just like in that poor Eskimo, Innu brothers and sis - year will be epic. And globally, Du - Michael J. Fox movie Monty Python ters had to rely on the gaudiness of ran Duran will make a surprising and The Holy Grail. nature to provide their much needed come back, updating Hank Williams Dirk: Um. Right. Well, I believe and sacred snow, often finding tunes with the aid of Kanye West. Justin Trudeau solved the quantum tive with First Nation people, do you themselves foraging in their back But closer to home I will win a re - flux coefficient, that government have any examples? yards (Dirk sniffles, another tear gional title in Scrabble having used does have such a time machine and Dirk: It’s a little known fact that I drops) … those yards go on for your name, Mr. Lagimodiere, by that it works whenever and wher - just imagined that in 1964, as part of miles, John. Or kilometres. I don’t cleverly sneaking in the letter X. ever Cabinet meets. its election platform, the first know. John, it wasn’t fair. John L.: Of course you will. Dirk, John L.: Alright, I am intrigued. How Trudeau government made several John L.: Alright Dirk, get a hold of thanks for your … strange and dis - so? promises to help First Nation peo - yourself. Let’s change the topic. What turbing predictions. Good luck in the Dirk: For starters, Trudeau and his ple, including snow-cone machines if 2018 was to happen? What could New Year. peeps have resurrected the age-old for the destitute Innu down in Innu - we expect in the world of politics for Dirk: I was a pleasure, John. Thanks. practice of promising wonderful via. First Nation people? goodies to First Nation people to get John L.: Dirk, the first Trudeau gov - Dirk (suddenly composed and lu - Dirk says, “Lynn Beyak has support - elected then lofting insightful and ernment did not get elected until 1968, cid): Well, Trudeau will continue to ers. Sure all their oars are in the wa - legitimate excuses why the govern - and there is no such thing as Innuvia. dangle shiny promises before us ter, but on the same side of the boat!”

La Ronge Health Centre Welcomes 2018 New Years’ Baby The La Ronge Health Centre staff was pleased to welcome the 2018 New Years baby at 3:12 p.m. on Tuesday Jan. 2. Shirley Charles is the proud mother of an 8 pound 4 ounce daughter, named Cleo Charles, who comes complete with two tiny teeth! Cleo is Ms. Charles’ second child, with a son (and happy older brother) at home in Stanley Mission. Seen here with Jess Emisch, the nurse who assisted with the birth, Ms. Charles also had Dr. Elliot Wilkinson as part of the delivery team. Congratulations to both mom and baby! Eagle Feather News JANUARY 2018 11 2018 a year to look after ourselves and remember our roots I have decided 2018 will be about self-care. Not all is lost and there are still many people who celebrating every year to come with triumphs and tak - I no longer drink and do my best to stay away from are taking their place as warriors and caretakers of our ing steps forwards rather than backwards. It is essential risky situations that may harm me, but that does not Mother Earth. Now is not the time for giving up or for all of our children and those to come. mean I am genuinely taking looking the other way. Now is the time to Do not lose hope. We are still here with our an - care of my well-being, phys - stand tall and proud for what you be - cestor’s blood running through our veins like the rivers ically, emotionally, mentally lieve in and continue ending stereotypes of Mother Earth, modern day warriors, learning and and most importantly, spiri - and taking care of ourselves as we would unlearning our colonized settler-society to find who we tually. want for our children so we can begin to are once again and regain our balance. Being a mother of two help one another, our families and com - Remember our roots and the deep meaningful in - little ones, running around munities. sight that comes with it. This year is about self-care be - with what feels like being a It is not easy trying to help those cause if you do not take care of yourself how can you chicken with my head cut who do not want to help themselves but take care of anyone else or live to your full potential. off from one mess to the other, to cooking and cleaning it is essential to do what we can so that we can continue Wishing everyone a happy and healthy new year. breakfast to dinner and changing diapers, and trying to keep up with being the best the mom I can be. To being a full-time law student and having what is a nearly impossible and endless reading list for my classes and running from class to class and staying on top of assignments and all the social events that comes with law school, I sometimes find myself cutting myself short on eating healthy or finding the time to eat a healthy meal, or making it to the gym or yoga or find - ing a way to take care of myself in all areas so I can keep trucking. Also, trying to make time for ceremony is very im - portant for the new year, my community, other family and doing my own research on my own time. I started the new year on a sad note and with the passing of my grandfather and it has been very unfor - tunate that many of my grandparents have passed away in the past few years. This only proves the fact that we are all getting older and that our elders need us to be there for them as they were always there for us. It just goes to show many of our language speak - ers and traditional knowledge keepers are getting old and passing away and it is vital to our people, society and our identity that we do not lose who we are completely. With so many troubling issues still on the rise with overrep - resentation of Indigenous peoples incarcerated, MMIWG, the child-welfare system continuing to take more of our children from their homes and families, and poverty and addiction still cycling in our communities, there is still much work to be done this year. 12 Eagle Feather News JANUARY 2018 Success! Last year’s resolutions were achieved By Jeanelle Mandes Natasha Gamble-Kequahtooway from Beardy’s and Okemasis First Nation Of Eagle Feather News made a resolution last year to get herself off We asked people what their New Year’s Resolutions were in 2017 and how they narcotics. It was an addiction she didn’t want achieved their goals. Here’s their stories of inspiration and proof that New Year’s to admit but she learned the medication was resolutions can be achieved with determination . hurting her rather than helping. Life without Lifestyle change narcotics for worked out Natasha

great for Jen “At first I was afraid and only went down one level but it didn’t change enough. I was afraid of the pain levels I live with to Jen Arcand is from Muskeg Lake First be without a buffer,” she said. “I was afraid Natasha Gamble-Kequahtooway Nation but resides in Saskatoon. She set out of the kind of person I would be with out it goals for herself last year to make changes in because I’ve been on this medication for (over) six years. My life revolved around her life – changes that she followed through Jen Arcand my next dose.” with. Arcand needed to change her lifestyle Gamble-Kequahtooway was diagnosed with arthritis that spread throughout her and eating habits due to her health concerns. spine, her entire skeleton mainly in her hips, joints and ribs. She tried different meth - “I always hated the word diet because it set me up for failure,” she said. “As ods of treatment including physiotherapy, acupuncture and others but nothing was my blood sugars were high, my vision had been affected and it was starting to go to helping. Her only option at the time was pain therapy which included narcotics. Gam - my kidneys. Diabetes was not controlled. My was to make small changes and ble-Kequahtooway recalled a time her brother was visiting her and he noticed the that is what I did.” effects the medicine had on her. She had trouble talking and her eyes weren’t able Arcand started drinking more water on a daily basis, she began to exercise, had to focus. regular blood testing and she limited her junk food intake. It was then that she decided to get herself off narcotics. It wasn’t an easy goal “I started seeing a doctor again and he basically gave me an ugly picture if I for her to achieve but she did it. didn't control it. That was my motivation,” Arcand said. “It was scary and ugly. I experienced every type of withdrawal you would ex - Additionally, Arcand wanted to make lifestyle changes so she decided to leave pect,” she said. “My body still hasn’t acclimated to the new chemistry but I’m stick - work to find something different. ing to it because I need to be clean and to seek real healing … more importantly I “My goal was to find a new job or go to school. When everything worked out WANT to be clean to do this.” so easy for school I knew that was the way I was to go,” she said. “My funding and She has turned to Indigenous doctoring instead of relying on pain medications. acceptance was immediate. I believe that's the path I was to be on.” Gamble-Kequahtooway learned over the year that she can live without the medica - Arcand also did some travelling and took her time exploring the west where she tion and had discovered her inner-strength. did some hiking and lots of walking. “I just wanted to be outdoors and do some soul recharging (so) I went to the Okanagan and it helped me tremendously. My mind was clear,” Arcand said. Christine became an entrepreneur Anton took a break in 2017 from coffee in 2017 Christine Marie was a stay at home mother for the last five years. With a degree from SUN - Anton Kitchemonia from Keeseekoose TEP under her belt, she made the decision to go back to work. After applying to three school di - First Nation made a resolution last year to visions and not hearing back from any of them, give up coffee for a year. she decided on a different route. She discov - It was a resolution for Kitchemonia to Christine Marine ered a new passion by creating baby products prove to himself that once he sets a goal for with an Indigenous style. himself, he can achieve it through willpower “Even though I knew how to sew, its become a new hobby that I’m doing more than and determination. ever before,” she said. “Going from being a teacher to an entrepreneur is a drastic change.” But he found the year-long journey a The career detour was inspired after she posted some baby items on buy & sell groups bit challenging at times. on social media. She noticed how popular these items were and did a Google search to see if there were any Métis bibs and baby clothes but nothing showed up. With majoring in home Anton Kitchemonia “It was hard to be around it, and it seems people are always wanting to buy economics, she put her sewing knowledge to use by creating different baby items. “My aim is to keep creating baby products with style and culture for practicality and you a coffee,” he said. special occasions,” she said. “When I was drinking coffee I never noticed that people wanted to buy me a Her legal Cree based company name has been approved and she has a graphic designer coffee.” working on her logo which is scheduled to be ready for Jan 15. She already has three local The advantages that Kitchemonia saw after he gave up coffee is that he actu - stores interested in carrying her products. Once the logo is ready, she plans to officially launch ally didn’t need coffee to start off his day. He found himself more energized and alert to Instagram, create a Facebook page, website shop, and other accessible marketing tools. without it and his teeth weren’t as yellow. “I am beyond excited and am looking forward to creating an inspiring business for all “For every goal reached, you sacrifice something in your life. There are so many customers, but especially for the Indigenous ones,” she said. “Where they can walk into a more goals I need to reach in my life,” Kitchemonia said. store or see my product online with Cree terms/phrases and instantly sense a hum - “This is the third addiction I gave up. First was marijuana, then alcohol and now ble pride knowing their language is not lost. coffee. It not only benefits my health but my children’s health and wealth.” “I’m not saying I won’t go back to teaching, but for now I will continue to walk through this door.” JANUARY 2018 Eagle Feather News 13 derstands the impacts of colonialism and Prestigious negative policies, Bellegarde said rec - onciliation is a daily reality for her. Leanne Bellegarde received a “Reconciliation on a very personal honours for Queens Council designation to level for me means trying to understand finish off 2017 on a high note. and forgive what has been so blindly, for so many Canadians, a part of their Leanne Bellegarde success, without regard to the impact on First Nations and Métis people in this By Angela Hill country,” she said. For Eagle Feather News In her professional life, reconcilia - Leanne Bellegarde’s career is about tion is about, “trying to use the influence seeing the inclusion of Indigenous peo - and the opportunity I have by working ple and that work is getting noticed. for a premiere company in a premiere in - In the fall, Diversity Canada named dustry in this province that is so influ - Bellegarde as one of the Top 5 influen - ential, to show how First Nations and tial women in human resources in di - Métis people can contribute if given the versity and inclusion in Canada and re - opportunity.” cently came the announcement that When asked if she could be con - Bellegarde is one of the 2017 recipients sidered a role model, Bellegarde said of a Queen’s Council designation in that is for others to say. Saskatchewan. they would be disenfranchised under the degree into a profession. “I think that early on, my elders Known as a QC, the designation is Indian Act, no longer able to call them - Kerby said Bellegarde’s career path impressed upon me, as I struggled to un - given to lawyers for their conduct and selves an Indian and be forced to live created a wonderful background and derstand what my role should be, that I contributions to the legal profession and away from reserves, their communities lead her to receiving the QC designation. had a responsibility to be the very best I public service. It’s a closely held nomi - and their families.” “She personally deserves every - could be at whatever it was I was doing.” nation and Bellegarde had no idea it was The QC carries a special meaning thing that she has accomplished,” he However, Bellegarde does have coming. in that regard, she said. said. two pieces of advice for Indigenous “I was momentarily speechless Admitted to the bar in 1993, Belle - Originally from Peepeekisis Cree youth. when the Minister of Justice called me,” garde practiced law in a variety of areas Nation, Bellegarde now calls Saskatoon “Just do it,” she said, adding that said Bellegarde, who now works as the from corporate to working on Treaty home, but she says the journey navigat - people need to get over self-doubt and director of diversity and inclusion at Land Entitlement settlements. ing between an Indigenous and non-In - asking what if. Potash Corp (now Nutrien). “I don’t know if it’s my place to be digenous world is an everyday experi - “Never give up,” she said is the Bellegarde pointed to a time when proud of her, but I am … I am terrifically ence as she works to find a balance that second piece of advice. “status Indians couldn’t even consult a proud,” said Jim Kerby, a Saskatoon- respects the identity and contributions of “Persist even through tough times, lawyer over their grievances, and in fact based lawyer, who Bellegarde articled both. even when you don’t think you are doing if they achieved the education level of a under. She says she is forever grateful to As a child of a residential school well, even if you don’t think it’s for you, lawyer and any sort of financial success, Kerby for encouraging to turn her law survivor, and as a student of law who un - persist.” 14 Eagle Feather News JANUARY 2018 Bright future in sight for Prince Albert electrician

By Jeanelle Mandes Of Eagle Feather News A young Indigenous entrepreneur from northern Saskatchewan got tired of working in the mines and decided to start up his own company. Craig Maurice, 30, from Pinehouse Lake disliked leaving his family be - hind when he travelled out for work in the mines. He needed a change and that’s what he did. Almost a year ago, Maurice started his own licensed electrical contrac - tor company called Maurice’s Circuit Solutions based in Prince Albert. He employees a journeyman and an apprentice – both who are Indigenous. His line of business consists of offering electrical supplies and installations, as well as repairs and maintenance on commercial or residential markets. “I’ve already had a good reputation for having good electrical work and the inspectors from SaskPower liked what I did for previous contrac - tors,” said Maurice who has been an electrician for 10 years. “It was an easy transition from working for somebody else to starting up on my own. Things are going pretty good for my first year.” It wasn’t easy to get his business off the ground as he faced various struggles but he kept persevering through the rough times. Eventually, he came across a great opportunity with the Saskatchewan Indian Equity Foundation (SIEF). An acquaintance informed Maurice about SIEF which sparked his in - terest to learn more. He heard stories from other people who applied for a SIEF grant and without hesitation, Maurice filled out an application and the rest is history. “Evan Lavallee from SIEF said it took them 30 seconds to approve the beginning stages,” he said. “From then on, I had to write a business plan and it went to a big committee and (was) approved.” SIEF is an Indigenous Financial Institution in Saskatchewan that offers developmental lending to First Nation businesses in Saskatchewan. The financial institution approved Maurice for a grant and a busi - ness loan. As his company continues to succeed, Mau - rice hopes to expand his staff which will be open to qualified applicants. The company has worked with a lot of com - munities around Prince Albert and Maurice had seen the struggles Indigenous people on-reserve faced of getting tradesmen out to the commercial and residential buildings. “As I keep trying to grow the business, SIEF is going to help finan - cially with costs to pay for things such as tools, another work vehicle, and maybe hire another guy. They’re going to help with a portion of that cost,” he said. “I have a zero-return call rate as of now. We try to do everything right the first time (and) I believe that’s working well for us.”

He hopes to serve more Indige - nous communities in northern Saskatchewan and in the south as well. Through the financial help from SIEF and Maurice’s determination to keep his company going, he hopes his journey will inspire others to follow Craig Maurice is the founder of Maurice’s Circuit their dreams in obtaining their own Solutions – an electrical company based in Prince businesses. Albert. With the financial help from SIEF, “I just wanted to show Maurice was able to excel his company by buying people that if you want some - another company vehicle and hiring a journeyman thing, just go out there and and an apprentice. He hopes to expand his get it,” he said. “The only company in the future. person who’s going to do (Photo submitted by Craig Maurice) these sorts of things for you is yourself. It took me a little (Information on Maurice’s Circuit Solutions can be found on their website and on social media) while to realize that.” JANUARY 2018 Eagle Feather News 15

Athletes will again Sports of all sorts on be in the grand en - try for the Tony Cote Winter Games the schedule for 2018 in April.

By Jeanelle Mandes overall summer games champions last Of Eagle Feather News year earning 958 points taking home 20 The coming year will be a fun gold, 19 silver and 20 bronze medals. packed one, full of Indigenous sporting The 10th Annual Saskatchewan events across the country. Aboriginal Indoor Track & Field Cham - From the Tony Cote Winter and pionships are in Saskatoon on March 2 Summer Games, the Federation of In - and 3 at the Field House. Early bird dead - digenous Sovereign Nations (FSIN) an - line is Feb. 8 and the registration dead - nual hockey tournament to the Masters line is Feb. 22 for Pee Wee, Bantam, Indigenous Games, athletes will have Midget and Youth categories. something to look forward to this year. The FSIN annual hockey tourna - This will be the first year the for - ments held in Saskatoon for adults is merly known Saskatchewan First Nation April 20-22 and the FSIN Youth Hockey Winter/Summer Games will be known as Championships is set for April 27-29 at the Tony Cote Winter/Summer Games. the Jemini and Agriplace. Another During last year’s summer games at the hockey event called the National Abo - closing ceremony held in Regina, an an - riginal Hockey Championships will be nouncement was made to rename the held from May 5-12 in Membertou First games to honour the founder of the pop - Nation, Nova Scotia. ular sporting event. The 2018 Masters Indigenous The 2018 Tony Cote Winter Games Games will be the first event of its kind will be hosted by Cumberland House, in North America. They will be held in incorporate traditional learning methods. available on the SPRA website. Individ - Red Earth Cree Natoin and Shoal Lake Toronto on July 12-15. These Games will Participants will be able to provide guid - uals willing to work towards becoming a communities but will be held in Saska - provide an opportunity for Indigenous ance and feedback on the program, en - certified fitness leader trained in group toon during the week of April 1-6, 2018. adults to compete against others around suring that it meets the fitness and phys - exercise content, who can be recom - Lyle Daniels, who is the 2018 Tony the world in a variety of contemporary ical activity needs of Indigenous People. mended by members of their commu - Cote Winter Games manager, said based and traditional sporting activities. Registration for the program opens nity, are encouraged to apply. on previous years an estimated of 5,000 In addition to the various Indige - February 1. Lots of opportunities to stay active athletes will be participating in the up - nous sporting events, the Saskatchewan An application package will be in 2018! coming games. Parks and Recreation Association “We’re going to have a significant (SPRA) is piloting the first Indigenous amount of entertainment (and) a cultural Fitness Leadership Certification Program entertainment village,” he said. “One of in Saskatchewan over three weekends in the coolest things I’m going to change April and May 2018. The program will this year (is) the medal ceremonies will train individuals committed to an active be done in the evening and not at the lifestyle who want to learn how to moti - venues but where the athletes are going vate and energize others in their com - to be fed.” munity.

Indoor TrackMarch 2 && 3, Field2018 - Field Championships House, Saskatoon, SK SaskatchewanPee Wee - Bantam Aboriginal - Midget - Youth - Open Includes T-Shirt and 4 Events More medals will be handed out at the Saskatchewan Aboriginal Track and Registration Deadline: February 22 Field Championships in March. (Photos by John Lagimodiere) Early bird registrants eligible for door prizes. Saskatoon Mayor Charlie Clark Participants will earn nationally rec - Early Bird Deadline: February 8 said they are pleased Saskatoon will ognized certification, enabling employ - serve as host city for the Tony Cote Win - ment in the fitness industry. It will be $65 for Mail/Fax Registration ter Games. held in Saskatoon with support from the Online Registration “We’re very honoured the Saska - Saskatoon Tribal Council. toon has been (chosen),” said Clark. “This is a great opportunity. This 10thEmail Annual [email protected] Call 306.292.5277 “Sport is a wonderful way for people to SPRA Project will benefit us as Indige - come together for a shared experience nous People in two main areas: building and to help build community.” our human capacity and promoting Daniels said the athletes will be fed health and fitness,” said Chief John Mc - in the auditorium at the Alliance Church Nab of George Gordon First Nation. in Saskatoon. The program’s goal is to empower The 2019 Tony Cote Summer Indigenous People to deliver safe, high For Registration, Volunteer & Hotel Information Games will be hosted by Meadow Lake quality fitness programs in their com - Proudly Supported By Host Hotels Tribal Council (MLTC) who were the munities that are culturally relevant and $60 Ref # SATFC1 www.saskatf.ca 16 Eagle Feather News JANUARY 2018

VenueThursday January 18 Friday January 19 Saturday January 20

3PDL/½3PMM)JHI4DIPPMÊMN Broadway LiveEh! Tribute Oh! toLet’s the ramones Go! The Dead South with Gunner + Smith Theatre Co-Presented by FreeBy Saskatoon Bike Valet Cycles 3FÊOFSZ at all spin shows The Spin by Evalyn Perry WINTERRUPTIIn case we disappear by Vanessa SmythE N A special Evening with Emmanuel Begonia tim hecker vCloseisuals by stephanie Talker Kuse with Jen lane Church

Delhi 2 Dublin Red Fang / Louis’ with DJ Khanvict Shooting Guns

By GrandHeavy Central Bell Station Steve von TilL Cosmopolitan I sat down and wept with RespectfulChild Seniors Hall

Amigos Mo Kenney P a r t n e r / Chad Van Gaalen with Too Soon Monsoon with Mauno Cantina Duchess Says

Vangelis Foam Lake Today is the day Guantanamo Baywatch with waitress with ADOLyne with Raeburn Tavern

An evening of stories and song The Cross Canada Lindi Ortega with Taylor Jade Bassment Fiddle Fest Tom Wilson

La Troupe Rayannah with Etienne Fletcher Du Jour Venue Sunday January 21

Broadway Classic Albums Live Embrace Winter Abbey Road Theatre Outdoor Venue

Friday (Indigenous& Saturday + New Canadian & Sunday storytellers) EveningStorytelling shows by TipiIndigenous Poets’ Society • Sleigh Rides • Fire Pits

VictoriaDress for theschool cold Facepainting by SCYAP • SUM Theatre’s “ Theatre on the Trail” FREE Winter Cycling clinic • hot beverages • excellent winter food… and more! TiPresentedckets by on sale now!with support broadwaytheatre.cA from