Published by Wabun

This special edition of writers. Ten years ago, few making and in addition it ensuring that our people Wabun Sun celebrates the organizations has provided Wabun have had the opportunity to 10th Anniversary of the or agencies produced their Chiefs, Councils and tell their own stories. I want newspaper which is printed own newspapers. Today administrations a means to to thank Xavier Kataquapit and distributed to Wabun we see many. stay in touch with Wabun and Mike McGrath for their members and an extended Wabun Sun is proud to First Nation members, staff, efforts over the past ten mailing list of First Nation have produced stories that First Nation government, years and I look forward to and non-Native gover- have featured and agencies and organizations the future of Wabun Sun,” nment and private sector highlighted major resource as well as non-Native said Shawn Batise, contacts. The Wabun Sun is development projects with government, agencies and Executive Director, Wabun also featured online at the the non-Native private organizations. Tribal Council. Wabun website at sector, as well as com- Through the Jean Lemieux, Health www.wabun.on.ca munity stories documenting development of historical Director, Wabun Health Thanks to the Wabun and promoting initiatives in stories for Wabun Sun, there Services commented that Chiefs and administration all of Wabun’s First Nations are now documented Wabun Sun has been staff, the vision to create and over the past decade. It is accounts and interviews that helpful in making sure that develop Wabun Sun has good to know that for the promote the history of Wabun Health policies, documented and promoted rest of time, there will be Wabun First Nations. Ten initiatives and efforts have the development of the documented positive stories years of producing Wabun been communicated to , on the individual Chiefs, Sun through many stories Wabun First Nation Wabun Health Services and Wabun Tribal Council and and photos have provided members. the Wabun First Nation Wabun Health Services Wabun First Nations with a “Wabun Sun has communities of leadership and staff rich and detailed historical contributed to the healing Beaverhouse, Brunswick members and Wabun database that can and will be and well being of our First House, Chapleau , community members. referred to into the future. Nations in communicating Flying Post, , These stories featured “Thanks to our Chiefs, the good things being done Mattagami and Wahgoshig. detailed interviews and Wabun Tribal Council had to help our people. It has The Wabun Chiefs and were professionally written the vision to develop and also had a positive benefit in Wabun executive was to provide informative produce Wabun Sun. The terms of self esteem through ahead of its time when it articles. mainstream media is often so many stories about our created Wabun Sun with the Wabun Sun has served negative in its approach to First Nations, Wabun assistance of Xavier to keep Wabun First Nation coverage concerning First leadership and staff and Kataquapit and Michael members informed as to Nations and Wabun Sun community members,” said McGrath as editors and development and decision has played a key role in Lemieux. Page 2 Wabun Sun 10th Anniversary 10th Anniversary Year One - December 1998 to December 1999 Year Three - December 2000 to December 2001

TRIBAL COUNCIL STORIES part of an effort to ensure the safety and well being FEATURED BIOGRAPHIES TRIBAL COUNCIL STORIES of Wabun First Nation members. Wabun hosts a major event in An - Chief Elenore Hendrix, Matachewan FN Wabun Tribal Council recently launched a Strategic November 1998 to open its new office at 313 announcement on the promotion of Peggy Claveau - Chief Anita Stephens, Chapleau Ojibwe FN Planning Process to develop a five year plan aimed Railway Street in with dignitaries, Wabun to the position of Assistant Health Director and - Jean Lemieux, Financial Advisor at meeting the needs of the First Nations. Chiefs, Wabun members and others. Roseanne Ojeebah to Health Clerk. - Audrey Batise, Secretary / Receptionist Recipients - Jason Batise, Wabun Economic Develoment And of this years scholarship fund are Matachewan FN Wabun’s ninth annual An announcement on the hiring of four Technical Services Advisor members: Russell Evans, Richard Wincikaby and General Meeting took place in September and new employees, Roseanna Ojeebah, Margaret - Peggy Claveau, Health Clerk Jeannine Batisse and Mattagami FN members provided a look back at the council’s work in the Miller, Cindy Giguere and Tanya Spencer, to bring - Ginette Thivierge, Community Health Nurse Arthur Constant and Mary Lee Boissoneau. past year. the best in health programming to Wabun - Sandra Secenj, Community Health Nurse communities. REFLECTIONS The 11th AGM on November 23, 2001 fea- the golf tournament took place in COMMUNITY STORIES Shawn Batise, Executive Director tured positive news in terms of financial stability, September and drew over 70 participants. An provision of services to the Wabun communities. impressive state of the art complex now dominates - Welcome to the first issue of Wabun Sun the main Wabun supports NAN in the skyline in this community. component of our communications strategy. Wabun Tribal fighting the government’s land use strategy. - Casino Rama officially opened its doors to the Council, the community of Wahgoshig FN and HEALTH SERVICES STORIES Community spirit was behind the building public on August 1, 1996 and this has proven to be indeed the First Nation community at large lost a of the Matachewan FN Community Complex. a very successful venture. friend with the passing of Clifford Peter Joseph Wabun Health Services takes over the - Thanks to a lot of eager participants the Sixth Diamond, Monday October 15, 2001 administration of what was once a federal After years of lobbying Wahgoshig First Annual Wabun Scholarship Fund Golf Tournament government responsibility. Nation is finally getting a real telephone service. was a great success. Participants in the 8th Annual Wabun Scholarship The HEALTH MATTERS Fund Golf Tournament braved cool and damp this program is one of the Beaverhouse FN Women’s Circle hosted a retreat to Jennifer McLeod, Health Director weather to compete at the event, held Friday main services areas of Wabun Health and it is strengthen women’s groups. September 21, 2001. designed to assist those who are ill and need access - Thanks to staff and our communities, we have HEALTH SERVICES STORIES to special care and treatment. Students were chosen by the Native Canadian developed community oriented health services. an Centre of Toronto Young Native Artists program for - In December 1998, we said good bye to Jack Wabun Health informative feature on diabetes, a disease that framing and display in Toronto. Diamond who was known to all of the Wabun Services is implementing a new program to provide affects First Nation people at a higher rate. Wabun Health Staff as a colleague and a friend. assistance to Elders and special needs patients. leadership announced the dedication of the Chief’s - We have had a busy year and I am very proud of An Emergency Response office in memory to the late Chief Baptiste the accomplishments of the Wabun Health Staff Health is pushing a Pro Y2K information session was held in Timmins as Memegos of Chapleau Ojibwe FN. and our Wabun Community Support Workers. Forma agreement on to First Nations. Year Two - December 1999 to December 2000 Year Four - December 2001 to December 2002 TRIBAL COUNCIL STORIES medical services transportation vehicle. Hospital at 74 years of age. TRIBAL COUNCIL STORIES FEATURED BIOGRAPHIES Wabun Tribal Council’s 10th This issue of Wabun Sun is dedicated to The Nishnawbe-Aski Nation Anniversary celebrations took place at Matachewan fostering healthy lifestyle choices. - Chief Paul McKenzie, Wahgoshig FN Self Governance Negotiation Committee held its First Nation on August 24 and 25, 2000. The two - Shawn Batise, Executive Director first ever off-reserve public meeting at the Timmins day celebration was held around a Chief's Meeting Wabun Health Services Health - Cecile Wesley, Community Health Nurse Native Friendship Centre January 23, 2002. The and Wabun Annual General Meeting. Director, Jennifer McLeod, tabled her report to - Chief Roy Meaniss, Beaverhouse First Nation information and public consultation meeting drew Chiefs that they have continued to develop and - Paulette McKay, Bookkeeper more than 100 people. The NAN Committee was Scholarships awarded to Russell Evans, expand health services to Wabun communities. - Therese McLellan, Community Health Nurse joined by government of Canada negotiators to Matachewan FN; Chris McKay, Mattagami FN and COMMUNITY STORIES - Alfred Ojeebah, Brunswick House FN, Wabun explain the process of self governance. Crystal Schram, Matachewan FN. Tribal Council Chairperson The people of are being - Marie Helene Lessard, Dietitian This community is Wabun staff members recently formed a peer trained in preparation for forestry initiatives that REFLECTIONS home to First Nation descendants who have lived support group called the Chub Club. will provide employment. Shawn Batise, Executive Director in the area for many generations. Elder Theresa - The Memegos provided a history of the her community, This year 88 Nishnawbe-Aski Development Fund Business - This is the 10th Anniversary of the founding of which was established along the former Highway participants joined with Wabun Tribal Council on Awards on December 8, 1999, featured major Wabun Tribal Council. 129. September 22, 2000 to socialize and help with a presentations to two Wabun community members. - This will be a busy summer in the First Nation worthwhile cause. Political scene with the upcoming elections for the Matachewan FN is an historic First Construction of a new six Assembly of First Nations, Chiefs Of Ontario and Nation community that has served as the traditional A Nishnawbe-Aski Nation wide apartment senior’s building complex began in mid Nishnawbe-Aski Nation. living site of many First Nation families. Elder research project is being conducted as part of the May 2000. The new building will be located near - I want to take the opportunity with this issue of Laura Flood was born and raised in Matachewan Sectoral Government Negotiations. the First Nation Pow Wow grounds and will Wabun Sun to discuss the Corbiere Decision, which FN and she was kind enough to share her HEALTH SERVICES STORIES overlook a small lake nearby. made it possible for off-Reserve First Nation knowledge of the history of the community during As Wabun members to vote in local First Nation elections. an interview. Health enters the new millennium there are many Mario and Ann Batisse run their 100 HEALTH MATTERS Six students initiatives being planned. percent owned company, Two Eagles Training, Jennifer McLeod, Health Director received awards from the Wabun Scholarship Fund. This year health from their headquarters in Matachewan FN. They were: Mary-Lee Boissoneau, Chris McKay, professionals have grown concerned about the - Well I am happy to report that Y2K was a non Jeanine Batisse, Doreen Fox, Rose Thomas and arrival of the latest virus strain. The gathering is an annual event that event even though our communities were ready Bertha Cormier. An announcement was honours the late Chief Baptiste Memegoes, a thanks to the hard work of many First Nation HEALTH SERVICES STORIES made on the implementation of a new client chart respected leader and elder of the community. members and Crisis teams. system for all Wabun First Nation patient records. - Wabun Health is promoting Healthy Lifestyle Wahgoshig In December Helen Naveau of Mattagami First Nation passed Choices and I am happy to report that myself and First Nation is the first Wabun community to 1999 Mattagami First Nation purchased a new away in October 2000 at the Timmins and District staff members are practicing what we preach. implement the Home and Community Care 10th Anniversary 10th Anniversary Wabun Sun Page 3 Year One - December 1998 to December 1999 Year Three - December 2000 to December 2001

TRIBAL COUNCIL STORIES with the Misiway Eniniwuk Health Center. The Health Care Workers retreat took Wabun Tribal Council recently launched a Strategic place from August 20 to 24, 2001. Elder Theresa Planning Process to develop a five year plan aimed Memegoes, Chapleau Ojibwe FN was recently at meeting the needs of the First Nations. Wabun Health is promoting a smoke presented with the NAN Elder Of The Year Award. Recipients free lifestyle to its First Nation communities. FEATURED BIOGRAPHIES of this years scholarship fund are Matachewan FN members: Russell Evans, Richard Wincikaby and Wabun Health Services - Darlene Lafontaine, Financial Advisor Jeannine Batisse and Mattagami FN members announced the grand prize winners of the Quit - Chief Richard Wincikaby, Matachewan First Arthur Constant and Mary Lee Boissoneau. Smoking Incentive in September 2001. Nation Wabun - Julie McKay, Health Clerk The 11th AGM on November 23, 2001 fea- Health Services Is developing a new program with - Chief Chad Boissoneau, Mattagami First Nation tured positive news in terms of financial stability, the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation (CBCF) to - Edna Hanson, NNADAP Worker, Matachewan provision of services to the Wabun communities. promote awareness of breast cancer. First Nation REFLECTIONS Wabun Tribal Julie McKay and Rose Anne Ojeebah Shawn Batise, Executive Director Council, the community of Wahgoshig FN and attended the Native Men & Women’s indeed the First Nation community at large lost a Empowerment Conference. - In this issue of Wabun Sun I would like to make friend with the passing of Clifford Peter Joseph COMMUNITY STORIES some comments about the changes that the federal Diamond, Monday October 15, 2001 government is intending to make with the First The people of are Nation Governance Act. Participants in the 8th Annual Wabun Scholarship looking forward to the new Kegewigwan - Wabun Tribal Council has embarked on a Fund Golf Tournament braved cool and damp Wahgoshig Healing Lodge. Strategic Planning Process and I am happy to weather to compete at the event, held Friday report that we are well on our way with the process. September 21, 2001. The Mattagami FN Food Bank is starting HEALTH MATTERS HEALTH SERVICES STORIES its second year of providing support to needy Jean Lemieux, Health Director families in the community. Wabun Health The - I want to thank all those at Wabun Tribal Council, Services is implementing a new program to provide Community Eagle staff was presented to the Mata- Wabun Health and in all our communities who assistance to Elders and special needs patients. chewan First Nation in the fall of 2000. have made my transition to Health Director an enjoyable experience. Health Canada is pushing a Pro Evelyn Black, NNADAP Worker for - I am very happy that Wabun Tribal Council has Forma agreement on to First Nations. Wahgoshig FN completed a mental health program embarked on a strategic planning process Year Two - December 1999 to December 2000 Year Four - December 2001 to December 2002

Hospital at 74 years of age. TRIBAL COUNCIL STORIES Program to provide better health services to - Marie Boucher, FEATURED BIOGRAPHIES community members who require health care in - Pauline McKay Healthy Babies / Healthy The Nishnawbe-Aski Nation their homes. Children Community Coordinator for Mattagami - Chief Paul McKenzie, Wahgoshig FN Self Governance Negotiation Committee held its First Nation - Shawn Batise, Executive Director first ever off-reserve public meeting at the Timmins Wabun Health Services held a two day Health Care - Betty Wheesk New Intervention / Prevention - Cecile Wesley, Community Health Nurse Native Friendship Centre January 23, 2002. The Workers meeting to bring together Wabun Health Worker for Mattagami First Nation - Chief Roy Meaniss, Beaverhouse First Nation information and public consultation meeting drew staff and other health care workers to keep in touch - Elder Laura Flood, Matachewan First Nation - Paulette McKay, Bookkeeper more than 100 people. The NAN Committee was with developments and initiatives taking place in - Margaret Quakegesic, NNADAP Worker, - Therese McLellan, Community Health Nurse joined by government of Canada negotiators to Wabun’s communities. Brunswick House First Nation - Alfred Ojeebah, Brunswick House FN, Wabun explain the process of self governance. - Kevin Tangie, Brunswick House FN and Tribal Council Chairperson Wabun Health has introduced a new Community Development Officer, Mamo-Wichi- - Marie Helene Lessard, Dietitian This community is blood monitoring tool known as the Hemoglobin Hetiwin Employment & Training REFLECTIONS home to First Nation descendants who have lived A1C machine to help community members with REFLECTIONS Shawn Batise, Executive Director in the area for many generations. Elder Theresa diabetes by preventing complications of the disease Shawn Batise, Executive Director Memegos provided a history of the her community, and assisting them to better manage their condition. - This is the 10th Anniversary of the founding of which was established along the former Highway COMMUNITY STORIES - In response from community members and Wabun Wabun Tribal Council. 129. staff we will now focus a little more on the - This will be a busy summer in the First Nation A New Ambulance vehicle was historical aspects of who we are and culture and Political scene with the upcoming elections for the Matachewan FN is an historic First presented to the recently trained first response traditions. We will feature historical articles about Assembly of First Nations, Chiefs Of Ontario and Nation community that has served as the traditional medical team in Wahgoshig First Nation. The our First Nations to provide us with an opportunity Nishnawbe-Aski Nation. living site of many First Nation families. Elder vehicle was provided through a provincial initiative to promote our individual First Nation histories and - I want to take the opportunity with this issue of Laura Flood was born and raised in Matachewan for communities that are half an hour away from an give us a chance to share our past. Wabun Sun to discuss the Corbiere Decision, which FN and she was kind enough to share her ambulance service and have more than fifty HEALTH MATTERS made it possible for off-Reserve First Nation knowledge of the history of the community during incidents per year. Jean Lemieux, Health Director members to vote in local First Nation elections. an interview. A language feature HEALTH MATTERS Six students that was provided by Elder Theresa Memegoes, - I want to dedicate my column this issue to the Jennifer McLeod, Health Director received awards from the Wabun Scholarship Fund. Chapleau Ojibwe First Nation. wonderful work that all of our National Native They were: Mary-Lee Boissoneau, Chris McKay, A language feature that Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention (NNADAP) - Well I am happy to report that Y2K was a non Jeanine Batisse, Doreen Fox, Rose Thomas and was provided by Elder Laura Flood, Matachewan Program Workers have been doing. The program event even though our communities were ready Bertha Cormier. First Nation. changed in Mattagami FN and is now known as the thanks to the hard work of many First Nation HEALTH SERVICES STORIES FEATURED BIOGRAPHIES Intervention / Prevention Worker Program. members and Crisis teams. - We are continually looking for new ways to - Wabun Health is promoting Healthy Lifestyle Wahgoshig - Jennifer Constant, Governance and Education improve our services and to achieve funding from Choices and I am happy to report that myself and First Nation is the first Wabun community to Jurisdiction Community Research Coordinator, the government to develop programs aimed at staff members are practicing what we preach. implement the Home and Community Care Mattagami First Nation benefiting our Wabun members.

Page 6 Wabun Sun 10th Anniversary 10th Anniversary Year Five - December 2002 To December 2003 Year Seven - December 2004 To December 2005 TRIBAL COUNCIL STORIES FEATURED BIOGRAPHIES TRIBAL COUNCIL STORIES The history Cecile Wesley and Cindy Giguere acquired of Wahgoshig FN dates back to the Abitibi tribes of Advanced Foot Care Training . - Elder Emily McKay, Mattagami First Nation As a result of a desire by the Algonquin, and Ojibway. Caroline Ojeebah - Chief Christine Venedam, Brunswick House FN Management to administer The has retired after dedicating 30 years of employment - Walter Naveau, Mattagami First Nation its own employment and training programs, Wabun history of the community is about the home of the in numerous positions in Brunswick House FN. - Elder Alex Black, Wahgoshig First Nation Tribal Council has also moved to handle these Ojibway and OjiCree people. - Tammy Gregoire, NAPS Officer, Mattagami FN services for its First Nations. Mamo-Wichi- The Some new changes have taken place to the Non- - Marilyn Tangie, Referral Clerk, Brunswick House FN Hetiwin Employment & Training had been the community is being led by members who want to Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) program. - Elder Hattie Luke-Maher, Mattagami FN delivery service organization for both tribal build on past successes. Julie (McKay) - Sue Prince, Water Management Planning councils. The new regional service is now called Awarded to Brousseau returns as the Wabun Health Clerk. Community Coordinator, Mattagami FN Wabun Training and Employment Services. Christina Morris, Wahgoshig FN; Mary-Lee A - Chief Andrew Neshawabin, Brunswick House FN Boissoneau, Mattagami FN and Matachewan FN Poker Run event in Mattagami FN promotes REFLECTIONS Brunswick House First Nation and members Doreen Fox and Jeanine Batisse. healthy living, exercise and diabetes prevention. Shawn Batise, Executive Director Chapleau Ojibwe First Nation are partners in two A developing multi million dollar waterpower Beaverhouse FN is an old settlement on the banks training session on the alternative health practice of - We as First Nation people are comfortable with projects on the River that were of the Misema River system. Reiki was provided to Wabun Health Staff. the idea that we as a people are the guardians of the awarded recently by the Ontario government. The The Second land and water. new waterpower projects are part of the provincial Communities along the Mattagami and Annual Retreat took place in September. - It is hard to believe that in this day and age we government's Waterpower Site Release Strategy Abitibi River systems are taking part in process. First Nation peoples still have to fight unjust and which is being administered by the Ministry of HEALTH SERVICES STORIES Wabun Health Services undergoes a program inappropriate legislation from the Canadian Natural Resources (MNR). Wabun evaluation as part of the health transfer process. government such as the recent First Nations HEALTH SERVICES STORIES Health Services has been working to plan for the COMMUNITY STORIES Governance Act or Bill C-7. development of a Mental Health Program. The HEALTH MATTERS Marilyn Tangie, of Brunswick House First Nation, Blue Heron Inn has seven new rooms for guests. Jean Lemieux, Health Director is attending training to become a certified Personal Wabun Health Services announced the final draw Support Worker. winners of Quit Smoking Incentive Program. McKay attends NAIG in Winnipeg Manitoba. - Wabun Health is successful because of the efforts of our administration, staff and our First Nation Wabun Tribal Council Wabun CHNs are receiving training in diabetes New funding assists in the development of services. leadership and community members. Health Services has hired Michael B. Archer as the education to be able to provide Diabetes education. by Elder Alex Black, - We like to keep current with new research in new Crisis Team Coordinator / Intervention Wahgoshig FN, Elder Hattie Luke-Maher, regards to health issues in general and more Worker. Wabun Health Care Mattagami FN and Elder Emmaline Macpherson, specifically the issues that affect our Wabun First workers completed the training program. Beaverhouse FN. Nation members. Wabun Tribal Council members, Julie Brousseau and Jennifer Year Six - December 2003 To December 2004 TRIBAL COUNCIL STORIES water treatment plant and sub-division is currently Beaverhouse First Nation was grateful to see the being constructed for Matachewan First Nation reconstruction of a local Church on their First TRIBAL COUNCIL STORIES Mattagami FN with the assistance of Wabun Tribal Council. Nation territory. Wabun Tribal Council and INAC have agreed upon a Specific Land Claim featured Treaty #9 Commemoration ceremonies in settlement. Traditional Wahgoshig First Nation members events that brought together Wabun community The drum making teaching was provided for 12 First attended the ‘Women Walking Together’ Women’s members young and old throughout the summer of Wabun Tribal Council Development Corporation Nation members in Matachewan FN through an retreat at the North Bay Indian Friendship Centre in 2006. Five of Wabun’s First Nations marked the has paid dividends to its member First Nations. education workshop to foster community interest in November 2004. 100th Anniversary of the signing of the James Bay HEALTH SERVICES STORIES cultural knowledge and skills. by Elder Clara Mathias, Beaverhouse FN and Elder George Endugesick, Treaty #9 in 1906 between the First Nations people Brunswick House FN. of and the government of Canada. Health Canada announced a new Lily Jacques, Starbear, Traditional Teacher is helping her FEATURED BIOGRAPHIES approach to the NIHB program’s consent initiative. Chapleau Ojibwe community learn about traditional teachings and First Nation held commemoration ceremonies to cultural activities with help and support from - Morris Wheesk, Water Plant Operator, Mattagami FN Training with a focus on improving efficiency in mark the community’s 100th Anniversary of the reporting for the Home and Community Care Brunswick House FN and Wabun Tribal Council. - Elder George Naveau, Mattagami First Nation - Elder Thomas Saunders, Brunswick House FN signing of Treaty #9 on July 21. A delegation from workers and on privacy was presented to the Nishnawbe-Aski Nation, First Nation leaders and Mervyn - Elder George Endugesick, Brunswick House FN Wabun Health Team members January 7, 2004. local representatives, provincial government and (Merv) Buffalo is working with Native and non- - Ghislain Jacques, Brunswick House First Nation the local mayor's office were on hand. The signing of a new protocol between Native families in northern Ontario to promote - Elder Clara Mattias, Beaverhouse First Nation awareness and gather support for young people - Anne Chookomolin, Wahgoshig First Nation Nishnawbe-Aski Legal Services Corporation Brunswick House First Nation brought diagnosed with Attention Deficit / Hyperactivity REFLECTIONS (NALSC) and Child & Family Services of together their community to hold commemoration Disorder (ADHD) or related conditions. Shawn Batise, Executive Director Timmins and District will ensure a more culturally ceremonies with First Nation leaders and visitors appropriate method of care for First Nation on July 25, 2006. Brunswick House FN held a - I want to remind all Wabun community members children and families. gathering at the local community complex where Wahgoshig First Nation members received that we are still progressing through the Self Mattagami dignitaries and local leadership made presentations assistance to attend the Gathering Of Nations Pow Governance Process with the Canadian First Nation members Juanita Luke and Jennifer and met with the people of the First Nation. Constant along with Therese Mannila Community Wow in Albuquerque, New Mexico which took Government. place from April 22 to 25, 2004. - There have been some big changes in my life Health Nurse took part in the Scotiabank Toronto Wahgoshig First when my son Quinton Leo Edward Batise was born Waterfront Marathon in September 2004. Nation was the first of several communities from on July 6, 2004. Wabun Health Care staff The promotion of Healthy Lifestyles was the Nishnawbe-Aski Nation area to hold HEALTH MATTERS challenged themselves to promoting healthier the focus of a Lifefest contest which was held by commemoration ceremonies during the summer of lifestyles by participating in a Walking Challenge. Wabun Health Services for its six member Jean Lemieux, Health Director 2006. The community held commemoration COMMUNITY STORIES communities. ceremonies on June 7, 2006 on their traditional - There are many ways we keep in touch with our homelands on the Point of . A new The community of First Nations and our community members. 10th Anniversary 10th Anniversary Wabun Sun Page 7 Year Five - December 2002 To December 2003 Year Seven - December 2004 To December 2005 FEATURED BIOGRAPHIES TRIBAL COUNCIL STORIES Constant are supporting the Canadian Diabetes Spring Star Lodge Ceremony for community Association as participants of the organization’s members and traditional people in a week long - Elder Emily McKay, Mattagami First Nation As a result of a desire by Team Diabetes Canada, which is a fundraising event in May 2005. - Chief Christine Venedam, Brunswick House FN Matawa First Nations Management to administer initiative to raise money for diabetes research, - Walter Naveau, Mattagami First Nation its own employment and training programs, Wabun education, service and advocacy. Brunswick House First Nation - Elder Alex Black, Wahgoshig First Nation Tribal Council has also moved to handle these members are working together to protect their - Tammy Gregoire, NAPS Officer, Mattagami FN services for its First Nations. Mamo-Wichi- Therese Mannila Community Health Nurse for people’s recently discovered burial sites on the - Marilyn Tangie, Referral Clerk, Brunswick House FN Hetiwin Employment & Training had been the Mattagami First Nation is working towards First Nations traditional lands at Windermere Lake - Elder Hattie Luke-Maher, Mattagami FN delivery service organization for both tribal becoming a Certified Diabetes Educator. near the railway town of Nicholson, northwest of - Sue Prince, Water Management Planning councils. The new regional service is now called the town of Chapleau. Community Coordinator, Mattagami FN Wabun Training and Employment Services. Wabun FEATURED BIOGRAPHIES - Chief Andrew Neshawabin, Brunswick House FN Health Services is implementing new REFLECTIONS Brunswick House First Nation and improvements that have been made to the Non- - Chief Fabian Batise, Matachewan First Nation Shawn Batise, Executive Director Chapleau Ojibwe First Nation are partners in two Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) program. These REFLECTIONS developing multi million dollar waterpower new changes were put in place July 2005 by Health Shawn Batise, Executive Director - We as First Nation people are comfortable with projects on the Kapuskasing River that were Canada to provide improved services and clarify the idea that we as a people are the guardians of the awarded recently by the Ontario government. The policies and procedures for health givers across the - As a result of the decision by Matawa First land and water. new waterpower projects are part of the provincial country. Nations Management to deliver its own - It is hard to believe that in this day and age we government's Waterpower Site Release Strategy employment and training programs, Mamo-Wichi- First Nation peoples still have to fight unjust and which is being administered by the Ministry of Wabun Health Services held a Hetiwin Employment & Training has been retired inappropriate legislation from the Canadian Natural Resources (MNR). Health Care Workers Retreat titled ‘Exploring and has also resulted in Wabun Tribal Council government such as the recent First Nations HEALTH SERVICES STORIES Aboriginal Healing Ways’ in Brunswick House having to take over delivery of these services for its Governance Act or Bill C-7. First Nation, September 19 to 23, 2005. member First Nations. HEALTH MATTERS Marilyn Tangie, of Brunswick House First Nation, COMMUNITY STORIES HEALTH MATTERS Jean Lemieux, Health Director is attending training to become a certified Personal Jean Lemieux, Health Director Support Worker. A Nishnawbe-Aski - Wabun Health is successful because of the efforts Police Services (NAPS) detachment will begin of our administration, staff and our First Nation Wabun Tribal Council operations in Matachewan First Nations in June The Ka-Na-Chi-Hih Specialized Solvent leadership and community members. Health Services has hired Michael B. Archer as the 2005. The newly constructed building will be Abuse Treatment Centre held a Grand Opening to - We like to keep current with new research in new Crisis Team Coordinator / Intervention located in the commercial property section of a new celebrate the organization’s move to a new facility regards to health issues in general and more Worker. subdivision that has been created by the First in Thunder Bay. The event was attended by Jean specifically the issues that affect our Wabun First Nation. Lemieux, Health Director and Board Member for Nation members. Wabun Tribal Ka-Na-Chi-Hih Treat Centre and Wabun Tribal Council members, Julie Brousseau and Jennifer Wahgoshig First Nation hosted the Council representative. Year Six - December 2003 To December 2004 Year Eight - December 2005 To December 2006 Beaverhouse First Nation was grateful to see the reconstruction of a local Church on their First TRIBAL COUNCIL STORIES four day information workshop on Crystal Meth for Nation territory. Mattagami First Wabun Health Care Workers in February 2006. Wabun Tribal Council Nation held its official Treaty #9 Commemoration Wahgoshig First Nation members featured Treaty #9 Commemoration ceremonies in ceremonies on July 7 at its First Nation Community Wabun Health Care workers and attended the ‘Women Walking Together’ Women’s events that brought together Wabun community Complex. The community hosted a three day Wabun community members took part in an retreat at the North Bay Indian Friendship Centre in members young and old throughout the summer of gathering featuring local events and entertainment intensive three day abuse prevention workshop in November 2004. 2006. Five of Wabun’s First Nations marked the for visitors. February 2006. The workshop for Aboriginal by Elder Clara Mathias, 100th Anniversary of the signing of the James Bay communities was titled ‘Walking The Prevention Beaverhouse FN and Elder George Endugesick, Treaty #9 in 1906 between the First Nations people Matachewan First Circle’ and it was presented by the Canadian Red Brunswick House FN. of northern Ontario and the government of Canada. Nation held a community gathering with local Cross, Timmins and District Branch. FEATURED BIOGRAPHIES members and regional dignitaries during the First COMMUNITY STORIES Chapleau Ojibwe Nation’s commemoration ceremonies on June 20, - Morris Wheesk, Water Plant Operator, Mattagami FN First Nation held commemoration ceremonies to 2006. A highlight to the ceremonial events was the Amy Sackaney, a member of - Elder George Naveau, Mattagami First Nation mark the community’s 100th Anniversary of the presentation of the original flag that was presented Wahgoshig First Nation has taken fist place in the - Elder Thomas Saunders, Brunswick House FN signing of Treaty #9 on July 21. A delegation from to the first recognized Chief of Matachewan First Northern Ontario regional basketball free throw - Elder George Endugesick, Brunswick House FN Nishnawbe-Aski Nation, First Nation leaders and Nation during the signing of the treaty in 1906. competitions. - Ghislain Jacques, Brunswick House First Nation local representatives, provincial government and Wabun Tribal - Elder Clara Mattias, Beaverhouse First Nation the local mayor's office were on hand. Council awarded six scholarship fund awards to Wabun Health Care workers are - Anne Chookomolin, Wahgoshig First Nation Wabun post secondary students based on their providing an educational workshop on family REFLECTIONS Brunswick House First Nation brought academic performance in the past year. Award violence to all Wabun First Nations Shawn Batise, Executive Director together their community to hold commemoration winners were Mary-Lee Boissoneau, Stacey Dunn, FEATURED BIOGRAPHIES ceremonies with First Nation leaders and visitors Karen Huard, Marina Thompson, Delta Ray Flood on July 25, 2006. Brunswick House FN held a - I want to remind all Wabun community members and Johnathan Dunn. - Chief Willis McKay, Mattagami First Nation gathering at the local community complex where that we are still progressing through the Self HEALTH SERVICES STORIES - Mike Archer, Regional Crisis Coordinator, Wabun dignitaries and local leadership made presentations Governance Process with the Canadian Health Services and met with the people of the First Nation. Government. Most people have been hearing about the REFLECTIONS - There have been some big changes in my life possibility of a coming pandemic. Wabun Health Shawn Batise, Executive Director Wahgoshig First when my son Quinton Leo Edward Batise was born has been working with its First Nation leadership Nation was the first of several communities from on July 6, 2004. and Nishnawbe-Aski Nation to develop a Pandemic - Five of our Wabun Tribal Council First Nations the Nishnawbe-Aski Nation area to hold HEALTH MATTERS plan for its communities. held Treaty #9 Commemoration events this past commemoration ceremonies during the summer of Jean Lemieux, Health Director summer. Our First Nation leadership and members 2006. The community held commemoration Evelyn Black, National Native came together to remember that 100 years ago our ceremonies on June 7, 2006 on their traditional Alcohol Drug Abuse and Prevention (NNADAP) - There are many ways we keep in touch with our ancestors signed Treaty #9 believing that it would homelands on the Point of Lake Abitibi. Worker for Wahgoshig First Nation facilitated a First Nations and our community members. bring prosperity, friendship and well being. Page 8 Wabun Sun 10th Anniversary Year Nine - December 2006 To December 2007 TRIBAL COUNCIL STORIES news of the passing of Elder George Batisse Sr., of Anishinabek Education Institute. A golden Matachewan First Nation, on January 8, 2007. opportunity has been announced with an agreement Wabun First between Wahgoshig FN and Apollo Gold Corp in Brunswick House Nations youth were brought together to take part in January 2007. First Nation hosted a Crisis Team Building education presentations at the Youth Life Workshop for their community in January 2007 to Prevention Skills workshop that was hosted in Flying Post FN formerly an independent First ensure that support services are prepared in case of Mattagami First Nation in August 2007. Nation in the NAN territory has joined the Wabun an emergency. Tribal Council. An original poem by Alfred Ojeebah, Bruce McKay and his family, who are the Wabun Chairperson and member of Brunswick Chapleau Ojibwe FN and Brunswick House FN owners of the Mattagami Convenience Store and House First Nation, that recalls the life of his father signed an Agreement in Principle with HydroMega Restaurant have taken a bite out of bad eating and his family. in February 2007 habits by adopting a new health conscious menu for FEATURED BIOGRAPHIES their community. FN representatives took part - Elder Noel Diamond, Wahgoshig First Nation in a grand opening of the new Redstone Mill nickel Wahgoshig First Nation - Michelle Carrier, Community Health Nurse concentrator facility to meet with the company members were a big factor in helping their team, - Elder Valerie Bull, after signing a MOU with Liberty Mines in the Matheson Lightning win the annual Atom / - Diane Tookenay, Brunswick House First Nation September 2007. Peewee House League tournament in - Chief Bill Lacroix, Brunswick House First Nation in December 2006. - Elaine Daly, Crisis Coordinator, Matachewan Wahgoshig FN leadership signs MOU First Nation with Sheltered Oak Resources Inc and Sage Gold Wahgoshig First Nation - Darlene Naveau, Community Health Inc in September 2007. will be hosting the Eagle and Condor symposium of Representative, Mattagami First Nation HEALTH SERVICES STORIES international indigenous culture and heritage, to REFLECTIONS take place in May 2007 at Northern College in Shawn Batise, Executive Director An Appreciation Night for volunteer Timmins. members from Wabun’s communities. - First Nations are now being consulted and Mattagami FN is negotiated with by resource based companies that A series of Peer Support Workshops marketing unique environmental cleaning products. want to develop on or near our traditional lands. for Wabun communities - Wabun Tribal Council is proud to welcome Flying COMMUNITY STORIES Margaret Post First Nation to the Wabun family. Quakegesic, NNADAP Worker for Brunswick - I congratulate all our Chiefs for recognizing the Wabun Tribal Council was saddened to receive the House FN is attending a program offered by the importance in negotiating with the mining industry. Year Ten - December 2007 To December 2008 TRIBAL COUNCIL STORIES Elder terms of development and participation in Irene Luke passed away at the age of 77 on resource development projects. Financial representatives from Wabun attended the January 25, 2008. - Most First Nations welcome, encourage and AFOA 8th Annual National Conference. support responsible development of our natural Redevelopment of local water treatment resources on or near our traditional lands. Matachewan FN, Mattagami FN and Wahgoshig plant and electric power system. - When governments and the justice system FN signed an IBA with Liberty Mines Inc. finally acknowledged our rights as First Nation Matachewan FN is preparing to host an Annual people in regards to resource harvesting on our A proactive approach by Northgate Minerals has Traditional And Cultural teaching camp for youth. traditional lands we at Wabun were ready to resulted in an agreement with Matachewan First move ahead in working with Forestry, Mining Nation. Brunswick House FN will be hosting the second and Hydro developers. annual Wabun Youth Workshop. HEALTH MATTERS Winners are Flying Post FN members Darryl Ray, A Jean Lemieux, Health Director Randi Ray and Jeff Berube; Mattagami FN photo of the participants of the Crisis Team members James McKay and Deanna Hyde. Training event which was held in March 2008. - We are bringing people together for Nancy educational, social and healing initiatives. Cyr, IBA Coordinator for Liberty Mines is Mattagami FN hosted the 9th Annual Live Release - We want to encourage our young people to stay implementing the IBA with the First Nations. Walleye Tournament in June 2008. in school so that they can attain future HEALTH SERVICES STORIES Jamie-Lee employment opportunities in the medical field. Batisse, a member of Matachewan FN scored a - We are undergoing an accreditation process Wabun Health Services hosted a week long Crisis medal winning performance at the 2008 North with Accreditation Canada and this is yet another Team Training event in Timmins in March 2008. American Indigenous Games (NAIG). important step for Wabun Health as we Wabun FEATURED BIOGRAPHIES continually improve our programs and services Health Services hosted a Men’s and Women’s for our First Nations. Wellness workshop in October 2007. - Chief Rene Ojeebah, Brunswick House FN The Retreat for - Sue Collins, CHN, Matachewan First Nation Wabun Health staff and First Nation health care - Ginger Nadon, Band Manager, Wahgoshig FN workers was held in November 2008. - Madeline Chokomolin, Health Policy Analyst Wabun - Doris Mitchell, Brunswick House First Nation b

Health Services acquired funding from the National - Pam Cormier, EDO, Matachewan First Nation e w

Aboriginal Youth Suicide Prevention Strategy. - Myrande Tremblay, Wahgoshig First Nation r o COMMUNITY STORIES REFLECTIONS Publishing Editor: n Shawn Batise Shawn Batise, Executive Director Editors: Matachewan First Nation hosted the Mike McGrath second annual Elders Gathering in October 2007. - 2007 was a banner year for our First Nations in Xavier Kataquapit