Peguis New Horizon Vol.11 Issue 3 June 15, 2017 Peguis Grads 2017: Our fabulous Vegas Grad
Top L to R: Melford Cochrane, Leonard Crate, Nolan Favel, Cory Flett, Quinton Flett, Michaela Cook, Tyrell Briscoe, Sam Bear, Tyrome Bair-Spence, Shyann Anderson Middle: Clarissa Rose, McClure Spence, Sam Spence, Alyssa D. Stevenson, Austin Stevenson-Sanderson, Kaila Prince, Camera McPherson, Linden McCorrister, Eric Krywenko, Dominique Guimond Bottom: Clarissa Williams, Jasmine Williams, Robert Williams, Dylan Wilson, Marcus Wilson, Denika Woodhouse, AJ Wastasecoot, Taylor Thomas, Kiefer Sutherland, Minonah Stevenson, Bailey Stevenson Peguis Treaty Monster Bingo! By James Wastasecoot know that you will also experience Peguis June 27, 2017 - The Peguis loneliness, being on a smart phone Central School gym was packed today doesn’t really cut the loneliness, as 31 students graduated from high you have to have human contact. school to begin the next phase of So, don’t be afraid to reach out and their lives. Master of Ceremonies for be with the ones that will love and the day was teacher Karen Myron support you on your journey.” who worked with her colleague, Chief Glenn Hudson brought Karen Courchene, and the Grad greetings from the Council. He Committee throughout the year to reminded the gathering that prepare for the graduation. As the indigenous peoples are still in a grads paraded into the gymnasium transition from the past to the escorted by parents, grand-parents present and, for the grads, from their or friends, their aspirations were home community to the external read aloud over the loudspeakers. one. He noted that indigenous “University, college, join-the- people are now embarked on workforce, undecided” rang out in reconciliation and suggested that the room. Following an honour song everyone embrace it. “This is what by the drum group, Loud Eagle, the graduates will experience out there. ceremony to recognize and honour Working within society we have to the grads began. Margaret Fiddler promote that spirit of change and delivered the Elders’ message to reconciliation to allow for healing.” the graduates. “I know you’re going He warned graduates they will to experience culture shock and encounter racism. “Be proud of who there’s a lot of things that will take you are as a person, be proud of your PEGUIS GRAD CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 a lot of getting used to,” she said. “I accomplishments, and be proud to state who you are as an individual.” Peguis Hosts Regional Enbridge Consultation Meeting By James Wastasecoot Winnipeg, June 12 – 13, 2017 - Peguis First Nation Consultation and Special Projects Unit hosted a workshop of federal oversight agencies responsible for the Engbridge Line 3 replacement project, and Indigenous representatives in Winnipeg on June 12 and 13. Mike Sutherland, Director, said the workshop was successful because it brings Manitoba First Nations into the process of establishing an Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee (IAMC) on Line 3 that is set to begin construction in August 2017. “The workshop was a chance for Manitoba First Nations to add their perspectives to the drafting of a terms of reference for the Committee,” he said. “Alberta and Saskatchewan indigenous communities held similar workshops in February of this year and have provided feedback to the “co-development” exercise.” Enbridge staff faced hard questions at the workshop. L to R: Fiona Fjeldheim, Jason, Dan O’Neill, On November 29, 2016, the Jamie Honda-McNeil federal government approved “teeth” which many people want don’t have this capacity,” said Enbridge’s plans for the pipeline. the Committee to have to be able Sutherland. “We are hopeful Others see involvement as a A Nov. 25 Order in Council to force Enbridge to put safety that this will be addressed in the risk that can be managed for authorizing the project to go of the environment, water and coming weeks as work progresses everyone’s safety, especially - as forward said that “the Governor communities ahead of profit,” said to draft the terms of reference.” is being promised - if they have a in Council, having considered Sutherland. “But I’m cautiously Enbridge officials made a hand in monitoring the project. In Aboriginal concerns and optimistic.” presentation of the Line 3 addition, it’s an opportunity that interests identified in the Crown In addition, as things stand, IAMC project on the second day of communities starved for economic Consultation and Accommodation is limited to Line 3, the Enbridge the workshop. Tensions were development, training and jobs Report dated October 31, 2016, project to replace the existing visible as one participant refused can ill afford to pass up. The Line is satisfied that the consultation pipeline which runs from Hardisty, to shake the hand of the lead 3 offers millions to address all process undertaken is consistent Alberta to Gretna, Manitoba. Enbridge official Jamie Honda three areas to participating First with the honour of the (see sidebar). It will not apply to – Mcneil, the head of the x Nations. The federal government Crown.” The Line 3 Replacement other projects or activities such team. Things got heated and the has committed $21.6 million Project is subject to 37 binding as mining, hydro dams, power participant was asked to refrain to fund an Indigenous pipeline conditions that will be enforced by corridors and other developments from asking further questions. environment committee to the National Energy Board (NEB) which touch on indigenous He left the meeting shortly after. ensure ongoing monitoring of the before construction can begin, territories throughout the country. The incident points up the mixed project over a period of 5 years. during construction and during First Nation workshop participants reviews pipeline developments In addition, over $27 million operation. Natural Resources clearly want the IAMC model, are getting among First Nations in engagement agreements for Canada, led by Major Projects when completed, to apply to on the prairies. Some decry the Indigenous groups have been Management Office – West is all development projects which lack of adequate consultation and committed by proponent Enbridge. working with NEB and indigenous could impact their communities participation in their construction “It’s an important task for all 26 groups on the “co-development” of but recognize this requires and monitoring. In January, nations along the line that might the Committee terms of reference. further discussion, according to 2017 the Assembly of Manitoba be affected,” said Chief Ken Sutherland says that while he has Sutherland. Chiefs filed for a judicial review Chalmers of Birdtail Sioux First concerns about the initiative, it is Another issue is the Aug 1, 2017 in Federal Court of the federal Nation. “We know that the line is a demonstration that First Nations date which Enbridge says they approval of Line 3. “Canada going through but the job for us are making progress in their must have shovels in the ground. committed to restoring public is to make it as safe as possible long struggle to have a voice in This means that Enbridge will confidence and modernizing the for our children. Our participation the board rooms where resource begin working on the project [National Energy Board] with a on the committee means we will development decisions are made in before the Committee is even set specific focus on Indigenous and have a voice in the monitoring and Canada. up and functioning. “So, Enbridge traditional knowledge,” Grand making sure Enbridge follows the He told PNH: “The committee’s will begin work and making Chief Derek Nepinak told the CBC safety guidelines, to respect the role is described as ‘advisory’ filings with National Energy at the time. “Instead, the Enbridge land and make sure it’s safe.” and that it ‘shall not block the Board but right now we don’t Line 3 decision is founded upon authority of the NEB (National have the capacity to monitor. We a process that marginalized CONTINUED ON PAGE 3 Energy Board).’ This means the will have to find resources to do Indigenous voices and legal Committee will not have the that. Without federal support we orders.”
2 Peguis New Horizon // Vol. 11 • ISSUE 3// June 2017 Enbridge Line 3 workshop Cont’d from Page 2 Peguis, Long Plain and Birdtail Sioux are among the communities forging ahead in commercial developments by establishing businesses that operate off-reserve where the markets and consumers live. “We have developed our own corporations,” said Chalmers. “We plan to bid on projects from Enbridge to sure our people are involved in training, jobs and business opportunities. Especially in the monitoring. We have our young people going into commerce and environmental studies, so this is an opportunity to have them involved. It’s a positive initiative. It’s a matter of how we’re going to do it as we go along.” Meanwhile, the discussions of Natural Resources Canada, National Energy Board, First Nations and Metis to frame terms of reference for the IMAC goes on. Another “Line – wide” meeting of representatives from all three prairie provinces is scheduled for June 26 to try to come up with a draft that captures all of the views around the table. “It’s a work in progress. My hope is that everyone can come together and we can agree on a terms of reference to get this committee set up asap,” said Sutherland.
Line 3 Replacement Project (from: Natural Resources Canada website pipeline to be shut off quickly if necessary; the installation of 18 new https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/energy/resources/19188) pump stations and associated infrastructure and equipment; and the The Government of Canada has approved Enbridge’s Line 3 construction of three new storage tanks located at the Hardisty Terminal. Replacement Project, subject to 37 binding conditions that will be The outcomes of all consultation and assessment processes are available enforced by the National Energy Board (NEB) before construction can to Canadians online. begin, during construction and during operation. The conditions will ensure that the pipeline and facilities are built and operated in a manner that is safe for Canadians and the environment. The $4.8-billion project will generate significant economic benefits, The project will involve the replacement of 1,067 kilometres of existing including $514.7 million in government revenues from federal, pipeline from Hardisty, Alberta, to Gretna, Manitoba, with new thicker provincial and local taxes, in addition to creating approximately 7,000 pipeline in many sections built to modern specifications to enhance the full-time jobs during construction. safety and integrity of the network. Over 90 percent of the pipeline’s Line 3 serves as a vital link from North American production regions right-of-way is on private land. to Minnesota, Wisconsin and other North American refinery markets. The existing Line 3 pipeline is 48 years old and is one of the six crude oil Canada’s most important trading partner continues to be the United pipelines that make up the Enbridge oil mainline system. It is a mixed- States. service line, meaning it carries a variety of crude oils. The project will also include the installation of 55 new remotely operated sectionalizing valves, 26 of which will be installed near waterways and allow the
Peguis New Horizon Publications Mail Agreement is a monthly publication published by Peguis First Nation and mailed to on reserve and non-resident band members. Number 42553022 Peguis New Horizon Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: PO Box 10 Peguis New Horizon Peguis, MB PO Box 10 R0C 3J0 Tel. (204) 645-2359 Peguis, MB R0C 3J0 Email: [email protected] Please contact us for permission to reprint or publish our stories.
Peguis New Horizon // Vol. 11 • Issue3 // June 2017 3 Chief Peguis recognized as Person of National Historic Significance By James Wastasecoot June 18, 2017 St. Peter’s Church, East Selkirk – MaryAnn Mihychuk, MP for Kildonan-St. Paul on behalf of the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada today unveiled a plaque at the Stone Church site in East Selkirk to commemorate Chief Peguis as a national historic person. Peguis Day at the St. Peter’s stone church is an annual celebration that is held to remember Chief Peguis who not only led his people but played a central role in the developments around the Red River in the 1800’s. Parks Canada erected a white tent on the church grounds where the special ceremony was held. “We must always remember that his role was pivotal not only in the Red River Valley, but L to R: James Bazan, MP for Selkirk Interlake, Elder Olive Lilly, MaryAnn Mihychuk, MP Kildonan - all of Canada,” said MaryAnn St. Paul, Richard Wishart of Parks Canada, Chief Glenn Hudson Mahychuk, MP for Kildonan-St. Paul who stood in for Minister responsible for Parks Canada, Catherin McKenna. “This plaque is a symbol of the recognition and celebration of Canada’s diverse heritage. As we mark the 150th anniversary of Confederation, we have an opportunity to bring all Canadians together to create new connections between Indigenous and non-indigenous Canadians.” Mahychuk said that Manitoba was the beginning of western Canada’s development and Peguis’s role as a friend and protector of the Selkirk settlers who arrived in the 1812 was key in laying a foundation for the development of the rest Children race on the lawns of the old Stone Church following the ceremonies. of the country. Originally known as Fort Douglas, the settlement Following the special ceremony, conducted under the tent. It drew surrounding area despite light rain grew to eventually become the the St. Peter’s church Dynevor a small group which grew into and cool temperatures that warmed city of Winnipeg. Chief Peguis commemoration of Chief Peguis hundreds from Peguis and the in the afternoon. and 4 other chiefs from Ojibway was conducted as in previous years and Cree Nations signed the outside the church entrance at the Selkirk Treaty on July 18, 1817. stone monument erected in his Elders Trip Chief Glenn Hudson said that the name in 1924 by the Lord Selkirk Peguis Health Centre is planning an event for Peguis Elders historic event is an important one Association of Rupertsland. Chief 60+ years who are interested in attending a conference in that is long overdue. He told the Jim Bear Edmonton September 11 – 14, 2017. gathering: “I want to acknowledge Gorden Cameron, Vice-President Chartered Beaver Bus Lines leaving on September 9, 2017 at that Chief Peguis was the original of the Lord Selkirk Association 9 am from Peguis Mall and returning Sept. 17, 2017. We will signatory to a treaty - not the of Rupertsland told the gathering: cover the cost of the conference: $300. numbered treaties. The numbered “Probably no other group owes Daily honourarium and meal allowance. treaties followed but the first as much to Chief Peguis and his Those that are interested must sign a registration form that is treaty in western Canada and people than the Selkirk Settlers. available at the Peguis Health Centre. Contact Denise Bear or that was before the province And no other group is as aware of Tracy Spence 204-645-2169. of Manitoba was created and that debt, I should say.” Please ensure that you all of your prescribed medications for before confederation was created The commemoration ceremonies the duration of the trip. creating the Canadian system.” were followed by a pot luck Maximum limit for the trip is 150 Elders. Register as early as Other speakers who paid homage feast and children’s races on the possible. Chaperones have been selected to assist with the to Chief Peguis included James expansive lawns of the stone elders. Bazan, MP, church. The church service was
4 Peguis New Horizon // Vol. 11 • ISSUE 3// June 2017 It’s never too late to graduate from the Mature Student High School Certificate Program By James Wastasecoot Peguis Community Hall June 22, 2017 – Students of the Peguis Mature Student High School Certificate program graduated today with proud parents, family, spouses and friends cheering them on. The six grads are: Andrea Arkinson, Jordan Spence, Samantha McPherson, Dream Walker, Vicky Wilson, and Dylan Abraham. Sherry Sutherland, Director of Education told the grads: “We’re here to celebrate your success. How important it is for you to have a vision. A vision without action is only a dream. Action without a vision is merely a chore. But a vision with action can change the world.” Chief Glenn Hudson delivered a message on behalf of the Chief and Council. “In the pursuit of your education, it has a lot of challenges but at the end of the L to R: Andrea Arkinson, Jordan Spence, Samantha McPherson, Dream Walker, Vicky Wilson, day, it’s all positive and isn’t it and Dylan Abraham worth it?” The valedictorian was Samantha did it.” Three awards were given out to McPherson. We are starting that you’ve shown - will get you Sherri Francoise was the guest the grads. Samantha McPherson a new chapter in our life, she through.” speaker. She graduated from was recognized for “Highest told the gathering. “We have to The class began with 22 enrolled the Mature student high school Achievement.” Dylan Abraham choose where we want to do for in the program last fall. Teacher, certificate program in 2011. was given the “Most Avid Worker” the rest of our lives. We have to Pam Cook, said that many who “Obstacles will face you, it’s award. The award for “Best acknowledge that there will be dropped out did so because of their very difficult to break trail,” she Attendance” was won by Dream obstacles,” she said. “But we are responsibilities to their families. said. “But the determination – Walker. proof that we can get there and we Peguis garage destroyed in fire
The Peguis Cement Plant garage rebuilt. “It’s a solid business and burned to the ground on May there is no reason why it can’t 31 in Peguis. It was a close call continue to be a success,” he said. for Jonathan Favel and his wife Cindy. The couple had parked their RV alongside the garage and were asleep when the fire broke out in the early hours of Wednesday morning. “We were sleeping in our trailer when my wife heard a noise,” said Jonathan Favel who owns the garage with his father, Dorey Favel. “I looked out and saw flames coming from the garage.” Favel said he immediately called the fire hall and then hitched his truck to his RV and managed to move away from the burning building. Dorey Favel is the registered owner of the property. He purchased it from another band member in March of this year. He purchased insurance on the building and son Jonathan said he is sure glad he did. Jonathan Favel and wife Cindy were asleep in the RV (left) when the fire broke out. Jonathan says the garage will be
Peguis New Horizon // Vol. 11 • Issue3 // June 2017 5 Peguis Grads 2017 Peguis Central School Graduates Class of 2017 Fabulous Vegas Grad Cont’d from page 1 “Government owes us many things, learned. “As you leave high school but it’s us that has to embrace what and move into adulthood, never it is that we want to do. And I believe be afraid to take on a challenge, economic development is a huge part Never be afraid to take on a risk and of that. Not only as an individual but step outside of your comfort zone. as a community.” Never be afraid to ask for help when Sherry Sutherland, Director of you need it. Never be afraid to try Education, told the grads to keep in something new. We will never know mind that as we celebrate the 150th what lies at the end of the challenges birthday of Canada, First Nations that we take on. It could be success, have been here a longer time than it could be failure. Either way, we will that. “You belong here, you’re going always learn from the experiences to make a difference in college and that we have. We will learn what university going forward,” she said. works out, what we can do differently The principal Faye Stevenson said next time. Nobody’s perfect. We graduates may be having mixed all become who we are from the Freda Bear, Tyrome Bair-Spence (Most Improved), Sherry emotions ranging from excitement challenges that we face and the Sutherland to fear. “But whatever you may be lessons we walk away with. Always feeling, know this: that you’ve come believe in yourself. Follow your this far. You’ve persevered through dreams and never give up.” Nolan hard work and determination. And received a thunderous ovation even now you can only go forward with before he finished the speech he had limitless possibilities. It’s all up to sweated to write. you.” The under-grad reply was delivered The keynote speaker was Nahanni by Brook Spence. After a momentary Fontaine from Sagkeeng and the pause at the podium to steady her MLA from St. John’s in north Main in nerves, she began speaking. “You’ve Winnipeg. Fontaine has a Bachelor worked hard to get where you’re at of Arts degree from the University today,” she said. “Getting through of Winnipeg and a Master’s degree high school proves you can do in Native Studies from the University many things in life. If you have an of Manitoba. She asked the grads opportunity to do something great, why the Peguis grad is such a huge don’t be scared to take it because you Freda Bear, Michaela Cook (Most Improved Student), event in the community. She said could be a role model to many of our Sherry Sutherland it is because our people were not youth today.” meant to be here. “In the process of After the speeches, the gathered colonization, we were not meant to were ready to enjoy a fine spread survive and yet we did. And not only of turkey, meatballs and other did we survive but we thrived and delectables laid on by Denise Peebles you’re an illustration of that.” and her kitchen staff. Following She told the grads they represent the feast, the awards for various not only the future but the past as categories of merit were announced. well. Because there were people The following is a partial list of the in the community who struggled in main awards given to recognize order for them to be on the stage individual achievement. today. She told the young women in the audience that it isn’t easy for a woman to be in politics, yet Peguis has three women in their council. She encouraged the grads to pursue their aspirations as she did, rising up from a life of alcohol and drugs to graduating from university and AJ Wastasecoot being presented the award for Canadian then becoming a Member of the History by Jamal Abas. Legislative Assembly of Manitoba. “Embrace your future, command your space as women and young boys, as indigenous peoples and like the chief says: you guys are the next generation of leaders. Live that, breathe that and honour it.” The valedictorian was Nolan Favel. He poked a little fun at himself about having accepted the role as valedictorian not because of his marks, or his good looks, he said. This got the crowd laughing with him. He said he took the risk and proved to Keynote speaker Nahanni Dominique Guimond receives Percy Moore Award classmates and that is the lesson he Fontaine MLA for Student entering medical profession from Rick McCorrister.
6 Peguis New Horizon // Vol. 11 • ISSUE 3// June 2017 Peguis Central School Graduates Class of 2017 Award Student(s) Presented By Rob Thomas Memorial Shyann Anderson Karen Myran Cory Flett Karen Myran Frank Wilson Memorial Cory Flett Florence Wilson, Eva Fon- taine, Don Wilson Donald Hallet Attendance Eric Krywenko Karen Myran Award Youngest Graduate Alyssa D. Stevenson Karen Myran Male Athlete Tyrome Bair Spence Cory Bird Female Athlete Jasmine Williams Cory Bird Percy Moore Award for Stu- Dominique Guimond Karen Myran dent entering medical profes- Karen Courchene helps Brooke Spence in sion her Under-grad reply.
PDC Business Award Eric Krywenko Karen Myran Peguis Family Food Award For Cory Flett Karen Myran Business Education Young Historian Award AJ Wastasecoot Jamal Abas Most Improved (Sponsored by Tyrome Bair-Spence Freda Bear Trusts) Michaela Cook Stephan Daniels Highest Academic (Sponsored AJ Wastasecoot Freda Bear by Trusts) Denika Woodhouse Stephan Daniels Humanitarian Award Kiefer Sutherland Anita Sutherland Anishnabemowin Award AJ Wastasecoot Freda Bear Stephan Daniels Margaret Ann spoke for the Elders.
Anita Sutherland presented the Patrick Mckay presented the PDC Humanitarian award to Keifer Sutherland. Business award to Eric Krywenko Chief Glenn Hudson delivered the message from Council.
Don Wilson, Cory Flett (awarded the Frank Wilson Memorial Award), Florence Wilson, Eva Fontaine. Jasmine Williams receives the Female Athlete award from Rick McCorrister.
Peguis New Horizon // Vol. 11 • Issue3 // June 2017 7 Grads are prime candidates for management and development jobs By James Wastasecoot First Nations and Indigenous organizations are in a transition to increased self-governance and administration where skills such as management and human resources are in great demand. On Tuesday June 26, ten individuals from Peguis and Fisher River graduated from the Management Development Certificate program (Interlake and Peguis-Fisher River campus) to become prime candidates for jobs or advancement in current positions in these fields. The Red River Spring Convocation was held in the Selkirk Recreation Complex Banquet hall where friends, family and supporters of the class of 2017 gathered to celebrate their loved- one’s achievement. The graduation ceremony was opened by a traditional prayer in L to R: Leah McPherson, Geraldine Monkman, Phyllis Sinclair, Delores Wallbridge, Sharol Kohoko, Ojibway by Louis Young, elder Heather McCorrister, Hillary Murdock, Geraldine Heinrichs, Jeremy Nault and former chief of Berens River. This year, the graduation exercises included an honour song and a He added: “We welcome you The Management and jingle dress dance. Elder Louis as Red River College’s newest Development program is a year- Young explained the honour song alumni and share in your pride long (Sept. to May) study of the which was sung by Jedadiah today. We wish you every success principles of management theory Swampy while Shannon Bear in the future.” and the human resource function performed the Jingle Dress dance. Class valedictorian, Nik Bola said: while developing the knowledge “That is another form of education. “You are now alumni of Red River and skills to effectively manage Life itself it is a teacher, and so College, a foundation to build on. people. The students work at jobs some of the things that you’ve Whether you will be going on to during the day and attend the come across may have been higher education or jumping into courses during the evening hours. difficult. But it’s the difficult things the career that you’re working Don Wilson, Interlake Campus that cause us to grow,” he said. towards, you are now a college Administration and Student “An honour song is bestowed on graduate. Now go out and share Support worker in Peguis said someone who has achieved a great the knowledge that you’ve gained, that out of 11 students that began Jeremy Nault accomplishment. We recognize the experiences that you’ve had, the program last fall, 9 graduated. I’m going to continue on with that you had challenges in your and the career that you will build, “That’s an excellent success rate,” my business (web design). education. And as adults, life with the rest of the world.” he said. “It goes to show that Somewhere down the line I difficulties that go along with that. Sharol Kohoko from Peguis has having access to higher education will look into politics and band The honour song is the knowledge graduated from other programs right in your own community management. that you fought through those. such as Bachelor of Nursing at where the support systems You’ve achieved something for University of Manitoba. “I’m very including family are present, leads yourself and your community.” excited at this graduation. I’ve to greater success.” “The Jingle Dress is a healing worked very hard to get where I song, a healing dance. To am.” She said she took the course recognize that we are going to better herself as a person through a reconciliation process and to continue her job as the where Canada has deal with past coordinator of the Peguis Home grievances that are impacting our and Community Care program. people.” “It’s great, I have something Following the honour song, under my belt and I can continue President and CEO, Paul Vogt, my education,” said Heather told the grads: “This is your day. McCorrister who is currently I hope you don’t mind if we make employed by the Peguis Gaming a fuss over you today. And part Commission. of what we’re doing is we’re Leah McPherson works at the Leah McPherson works at celebrating what we know are a reception desk at Peguis band Peguis Band Office and hopes to lot of sacrifices that got you to this office. “I’m not really sure where Heather McCorrister with further her education. point.” to go from here. Probably more daughter Zoey. education,” she said.
8 Peguis New Horizon // Vol. 11 • ISSUE 3// June 2017 Recovering and Developing Awareness of the Ancient Heritage of the First Nations Farmers At the Lockport Village site From Dr. Leigh Syms and Dr. Sara Powerpoint presentation on June 23, 2017 at Peguis Arena Complex
Dr. Leigh Syms This is my presentation that provides the background and developments. This is about discovering exciting new information on traditional First Nations activities at the Lockport Site where they practiced small scale manual cultivation some 400 years before Europeans arrive. It shows that the community was very skilled and knowledgeable about many activities such as seeding and harvesting plants and were so successful that they had to dig storage pits for surplus food. The local groups were much more Schematic cross-section; deep (1.5 m) and shallow storage pits than just hunters (an erroneous stereotype portrayed in history (profiles) books).; they were also fishers, collectors and farmers. A variety of new scientific analyses are being incorporated including a great The Lockport Site is located on deal of microscopic analyses of food remains, plant particles, the east side of the Red River at animal hair, and feather portions. Everybody will have a new and Lockport Bridge. wider respect for traditional activities and knowledge. Our relation with Peguis began when we asked for blessings and support and Elder Floyd Sutherland, Elder Carl McCorrister, and the drummers came to the site and performed the necessary rituals. We decided that it is important to stay in touch and share the information on an ongoing basis. We want every one to learn about how outstanding these people were.
Powerpoint presentation excerpt • Most outstanding site of First Nations pre-European Goals of the research To make people generally aware of the importance of this site. cultivation in Western Canada !! Very few of the people who came to the site this summer were even • They were so successful as part-time farmers that they dug aware of it and certainly had no awareness of its impotence. numerous storage pits to store their surplus. To make earlier reports available in accessible digital format. • Their form of agriculture was manual small-scale farming, To introduce and apply new scientific analyses to identify new using hand tools such as hoes made from bison scapula (shoulder insights into traditional First Nations experiences and activities. blades) and horn digging sticks. To introduce new techniques to spread the new information widely. • Fields were small, probably 1 to 3 acres, and were the Coleen Rajotte to produce a TV documentary on the local First property of senior women in each family. An acre is about one-half Nations knowledge on traditional plant use and on the new of a football field including the end zone and required extensive techniques that are being used to discover this information and work! have this documentary shown widely and readily accessible as • Clearing, planting weeding and harvesting required the educational material. women to be at the site for considerable portions of the year! To produce reports, both technical and general, so that this, • Everybody should know about this important activity!! knowledge becomes widely known and continues to be known. Dr. Sara Halwus For my part, I was invited to participate in the Lockport Gaming discussions excavations in 2016 to collect soil samples to recover ancient seed, fruit and other types of plant remains to understand what types with Aseneskak Group of plants were used by past First Nations people. This practice is known as palaeoethnobotany. From the soil samples collected and processed to date we know that along side cultivated corn underway generation, and provide us the and beans many local native plants were used for their fruits, nuts By Peguis New Horizon staff ability to help our community.” or other parts as important foods. Saskatoons, raspberries, wild Discussions and planning for A working group between Peguis cherries, hazelnuts, and mint seeds and fruits were recovered from future gaming developments and the Aseneskak Group has been the 2016 excavations. Most of the plant remains were recovered have once again begun with created and is working toward from two specific areas at Lockport. In these two places, the the Aseneskak Casino group, the structure of the partnership artifacts suggested the possibility of hearths, where people would according to Chief Glenn Hudson. as well as developing an overall have processed or cooked food. The plant remains supported this “It’s good to get back to progress communication strategy for all interpretation. This is important as examining all types of evidence, and strategizing for the economic parties involved. whether ancient cooking pots, stone tools or the remains of the future of our community,” he More information is to come in the plants people ate, can reveal a wider understanding of ancient First said. “Our community will benefit very near future. Nations traditional activities. through job creation, revenue
Peguis New Horizon // Vol. 11 • Issue3 // June 2017 9 Peguis Finance Update: from disaster to doing it right, for the good of all By James Wastasecoot the INAC agreement and therefore Peguis First Nation is feeling the would not be recoverable. The financial squeeze which the Chief funds were taken from projects and Council warned about shortly funding and those projects were after taking office on March 24, then abandoned. In the case of the 2017, according to Peguis Finance planned Personal Care Home, $1.6 Department. The audit process is million was flowed to the First currently underway and the details Nation on March 20, 2016. But the will be provided at the annual funds were quickly spent on the meeting called expressly for this millions being handed out to the in the fall. “We’re working with leader’s supporters. “Needless to auditors to account for where the say, this was a very short sighted money went and how it was spent. vision,” said Hudson. I’m sad to say that our community When funds began to run out, the funds were basically looted under chief in desperation on Feb. 25, the previous leadership who didn’t 2016, wrote to INAC requesting even try to hide the fact that a lot funds of $1.34 million due to of money and favours was being “financial hardship.” The reply bestowed upon family members,” to this letter is published in the said Chief Glenn Hudson. “It’s sidebar to this article. In the really shameful.” letter, Regional Director General, Jordan Ulrich, CPA, CA (now Gianni De Francesca agrees to Director of Finance as of April revise the repayment plan for 2017) was the Controller from flood paybacks which were due. A February 2016 to March 2017. further $746,000 is denied because He said: “It was a frustrating documentation to support such a fiscal year for all involved. Cash decision had yet to be provided flow was constantly restricted by the band. “If the council had and overspent, budgets were done its job that it was elected never truly worked out with each to do: manage community funds Peguis Finance Update: band. Program, and the official Director responsibly according to the rules “Numerous financial entries • High income earners living of Finance position was effectively of transparency and accountability show ineligible, illegal spending” off reserve, getting their mortgages vacant for most of the year.” as set out in its funding agreement, paid. Ulrich goes on to add: “Through such a state of affairs would not Peguis Finance has uncovered 2015 and 2016 Peguis had to beg have arisen,” said Hudson. “It numerous entries in the financial the Bank of Montreal for several is a sad day when the Council records of expenditures which temporary bulges (increases) of Peguis has to go begging its occurred in 2016 that are either Peguis Adult Ed. to our line of credit due to cash colonizer for more money so that very questionable or outright flow mis-management; however essential services for its citizens, fraudulent. This includes: Is now accepting applications for nothing about these bulges were the proud people of Peguis, can be • A band member was being the fall program temporary, as Peguis just fell had,” he said. paid twice for rent: once to her The Peguis Adult Education deeper and deeper into debt “Now, Peguis First Nation is Hodgson landlord, and then again Program offers training so you without ever working out solid doing what it’s supposed to do: to herself, as landlord to her son can receive a Mature High School plans for eventual repayment”. managing community finances living in her house in Peguis. She Diploma Ulrich said that the situation has responsibly and make sure that moved out so she could charge her Deadline for Applications is Sept. already changed considerably the most in need are looked after. son rent on her band-owned house. 1, 2017 since the leadership transition in Peguis Finance is now closly • A band member who was All late Applications will be April 2017 as cash flow has now monitoring why public funds are allocated a house (from the “37 placed on a wait list, so make been stabilized, and Peguis no being spent and what needs to be units” project) is employed in sure you get your application in longer falls deeper into debt with paid,” he said. Winnipeg. She rented out the “37- on time. each passing month. “Peguis even Since the new council took unit house,” and at the same time, Applications can be picked up at repaid $2.3 million to their line of over, no cheques have bounced, collected social assistance from credit last month.” according to Peguis Finance. “We Peguis. She also got her Winnipeg Please attach a copy of your Even when cheques started to were able to meet all operations rent paid. latestthe Peguis transcript. School Board office. bounce, the council didn’t reign requirements, we’ve been able • A number of parents were If you applied last year and were in spending. Instead, the free-for- to operate in last 3 months by collecting rent from the band for on the wait list, you must re- all continued for those under the monitoring our cash, our payables housing their grown children in a apply so that I know you are still council’s favour as word spread of and generally, enforcing the shed in their yards. interested in the program. This the council’s largesse. Those who rules of financial management,” • A qualified nurse earning also helps to ensure that all your knew better, the administrators said Councillor Annette Spence- income as a nurse in Winnipeg contact information is up to date. and certain members of council, Meeches. “We’re not out of the getting her rent reimbursed. Also students who attended the were shut out of the process. They woods yet. We, as Council, will • Employed band members program last year must also knew much of the spending spree continue to have to say No to a lot receiving rent reimbursements reapply. were for ineligible expenses under of requests from band members. and having utilities paid for by the But it’s for the good of us all.”
10 Peguis New Horizon // Vol. 11 • ISSUE 3// June 2017 Honouring the Spirit of 1817- Commemoration of the Selkirk Treaty Coming up this July17th, 2017, their homeland 70 years after this Lord Selkirk Visit - Update there will be a Bicentenary treaty to lands 150 km north to Celebration in several locations present day Peguis Reserve. around Selkirk, Peguis, Lord Selkirk will be visiting various The Selkirk Treaty gave lands locations in Manitoba in July. On July Brokenhead and Winnipeg to to the arriving Scottish Settlers honor the Selkirk Treaty signed on who were forced to leave their 21, he is scheduled to be in Peguis, July 18, 1817. This celebration homeland and come to this arriving at 10:30 am. He will spend 2.5 will be over four days with a country; the lands given in good hours in the community. Activities being descendent of Lord Selkirk, the faith was along the Red River th planned for this visit include a student 5 Earl of Selkirk attending. from Selkirk down to the Forks This Treaty was signed by Lord re-enactiment of the Selkirk Treaty. of the Red and Assiniboine. In Lord Selkirk will also be returning Selkirk (representing the Crown) return, Chief Peguis and the other and Chief Peguis along with headmen were promised annual Chief Peguis’ headdress. A local other headmen of the Saulteaux gifts and tobacco. The present Commitee has been struck to plan further Nation who occupied these day growing population and well- details. More information will be posted traditional lands. The Treaty established economy of these on the Peguis website. was an important document that lands given to the early settlers . helped establish the Settlement demonstrates the commitment of the Red River basin leading to given by Chief Peguis and the a Selkirk Treaty Celebration and a him and his people recognition the formation of the province of other headmen. Today, none of the visit by the 5th Earl of Selkirk on as part of Canadian History Manitoba in 1871. promises to them are honored. Friday, July 21. Plans are being and the role they played. The Chief Peguis’ people have always As part of the Bicentennial made on this celebration and the Monument will certainly highlight seen both the Selkirk Treaty and celebration, the Bicentenary activities that will demonstrate these Bicentenary Celebrations; Treaty No. 1 as creating nation- Committee has been working the spirit of the Treaty and its hopefully, there will also be to-nation relationships that were with various government officials meaning. recognition of those promises signed in goodwill with both and other organizations to honor The Selkirk Treaty was a valuable made when the Treaty was signed sides understanding that this Chief Peguis’ role by building document in the formation of in 1817. It’s a way of keeping with agreement was Sacred and lasting a monument in his honor at the the Province of Manitoba; it also the Spirit and Sacredness of the forever. The Selkirk Treaty also Manitoba Legislature. To date, played a role in the settlement intent between two nations who represented Peace and Goodwill the monument site has been of the west as most of these played roles in the Manitoba we between the settlers and the established on the Legislature newly arriving people passed know today. . First Nations of the Red River. grounds and the construction will through the Red River. We see Carl McCorrister. However, this didn’t last; Peguis’ begin sometime this summer. the honoring of Chief Peguis with people were forced to move from Peguis First Nation will be having these celebrations as finally giving NOTICE
The Peguis Chief and Council would like to recognize our • Home-schooled must have report card from Peguis Central School/ Province of Manitoba. Elders for their guidance, wisdom, strength of community, • Peguis Central School Nominal Roll used as basis for criteria for and knowledge, with an allowance of one hundred dollars Peguis Students. ($100). • Report card must be for term ending June 2017. CRITERIA • Status Cards required for confirmation of Peguis Membership. • Must be a registered member of Peguis First Nation. • Distribution only to parent/guardian or upon written authorization. • Must be 60 years of age, as at July 17, 2017. • Off reserve students must have report card & Status Card submitted • Must be in person for distribution of allowance (No forms required). before dead line. • If hospitalized, please provide written documentation for distribution to APPLICATION MUST BE COMPLETED FOR CHEQUE another person. PREPARATION, AS FOLLOWS: Students 15 years and younger CHEQUE DISTRIBUTION • Parent/guardian to complete form for cheque preparation in the name Monday, July 17, 2017 Peguis Community Hall 10:00am - 4:00pm of parent /guardian. • Family registration forms available for parents with more than one CONTACT FOR MORE INFORMATION student under 15 years. Andrea Sutherland Phone: 204-645-2359 Ext. 3005 Students 16 years and older on or before June 30, 2017 Toll Free: 1 (866) 645-2359 Ext. 3005 • Complete form for cheque preparation in their name. SUBMIT ALL INFORMATION BY JULY 7, 2017 Education Bursary • Drop off at Band Office The Peguis Chief & Council would like to recognize the commitment • Fax to 1-204-645-4230 to education and the academic achievements of students registered in • Email to [email protected] School grades Nursery to Grade 12 with an Education Bursary of one CHEQUE DISTRIBUTION hundred dollars ($100). Tuesday, July 18, 2017 Peguis Multiplex Upstairs foyer 10:00am - CRITERIA 4:00pm • Students must be registered in Nursery to Grade 12 (does not include CONTACT FOR MORE INFORMATION Adult Ed Students). • Andrea Sutherland at 204-645-2359, Ext. 3005 or Toll Free: 1 (866) 645-23S9, Ext. 3005
Peguis New Horizon // Vol. 11 • Issue3 // June 2017 11 Contact Peguis Recreation (204) 645-4914 Activity Coordinator (204) 308-1310 Email Inquiries: [email protected] www.peguisfirstnation.ca
12 Peguis New Horizon // Vol. 11 • ISSUE 3// June 2017