Alberta Native News - Digital Edition - May, 2017

Volume 34 Number 05 May, 2017

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Alberta Native News

May, 2017

Amiskwaciy Academy hosts a feast and conference

by John Copley Amiskwaciy Academy’s 2017 Spring Feast took place at the school on Thursday, April 27, and was followed a day later with a very special Lost Prizes Conference.

“It was an interesting and educational week,” noted Principle Fred Hines, “and once again we are pleased to see so many of our community sponsors, friends and colleagues come out to enjoy the feast and celebrate the season.”

This year’s feast was also designed as a multicultural celebration in recognition of Canada’s 150th birthday.

Amiskwaciy Elder Francis Whiskeyjack offered a prayer, thanked the full house for attending and spoke briefly about the significance of spring and the importance of sharing and caring for one another, especially through difficult times.

After acknowledging the Elders and introducing Edmonton Public Schools Vice Chair Ray Martin and Trustees Nathan Ip (Ward H) and Cheryl Johner (Ward A), Principle Hines noted the presence of three “special friends from the University of Winnipeg - the Dean of Education, Dr. Ken McCluskey, Phillip Baker, Director of the University’s ACCESS Program and Alan Weibe, a Professor with the ACCESS Program. These three gentlemen, along with colleague, Donald Treffinger, who was unable to attend the feast, co-authored “Lost Prizes: Identifying and Developing the Talents of Marginalized Populations,” available on amazon.ca.

Ironically, the attendance and participation of the three university scholars came exactly one year after Amiskwaciy Academy received a visit from Dr. Annette Trimbee, the seventh president and vice-chancellor of the University of Winnipeg, who came to the school last year and spoke with the students about setting goals and completing their education.

Amiskwaciy Academy’s annual feast usually sees about a half dozen area schools join in the celebration. This year students, teachers and chaperones from WP Wagner, Dunluce, Donald Massey, Highlands, East Glen, Mary Butterworth, Glenrose, McNally, Katae Chegwin and the

Aurora Charter School attended the event.

Community sponsors, partners and friends joining the celebration of Canada’s 150th Birthday and welcoming in the 2017 spring Honour Blanket recipient Louise Hayes is joined by Elders Francis Whiskeyjack, season included representatLeith Campbell, Don Langford and Jeanette Lean. ives of the Edmonton Police Service, the RCMP, University of Alberta, Outdoor supporter and a member of the Alberta Government’s Community Sweat Lodge contributors, Stantec and Icon Aboriginal Relations team. She has spent the majority of Ready Mix, Louise Hayes, with Aboriginal Services, her career working with Metis and First Nations people Yazan Haymour, who is with the Arab Friendship Centre, across Canada. Louise has served several volunteer MacEwan University, Chateau Nova, the Friedel family organizations including the University of Alberta Board of and former Roughrider/Edmonton Eskimo slotback, Rick Governors, the University of Alberta Senate, the Council of Aboriginal Initiatives and is currently a board member Walters.

Hines lauded the efforts of all the community sponsors of the United Way Alberta Capital Region, Boys & Girls and gave a special nod of recognition for the “outstanding Clubs Big Brothers Big Sisters of Edmonton & Area, the and continued support” from everyone involved in helping Chair of the Edmonton Public Schools Foundation, Coto ensure that Amiskwaciy Academy’s students have Chair of the Chief’s Advisory Council of the Edmonton Police Service and a shareholder at Northlands. every opportunity to succeed.

A second presentation, a beautiful wood carving, was Edmonton Public Schools Vice Chair Ray Martin presented to community sponsor/supporter Werner addressed the gathering and began by saying how pleased Grolsh. he was to “be here today to represent the EPSB and to The day after the feast the three Manitoba educators celebrate the birth of a new season and new life.” hosted a day-long conference that incorporated four Martin said it was “especially pleasing to see so many different breakout sessions and introduced seven community partners and so many other schools attending presenters.

A morning prayer and song by Elder today. This is a wonderful opportunity to meet and greet was followed with welcoming remarks from Whiskeyjack one another but more than that it is an opportunity to learn Fred Hines. more about each other as you realize that we are all Dean of Education, Dr. Ken McCluskey then spoke connected. about the development of the Lost Prizes book co“Amiskwaciy Academy is a unique place that brings authored by the four educators. He delved into the together Cree language, culture, tradition and knowledge messages and lessons discussed in the manuscript and in a positive and quality educational setting. Amiskwaciy’s offered personal insight into the content of the book and teaching styles reflect that belief through the involvement how it can help educators embrace philosophies and of Elders, community partners, family and teaching staff teaching styles that improve student learning and that help to create a holistic learning environment. These behaviour. values reflect and support those of the EPSB as we work Topics include - the challenges and cost of together to turn the learners of today into the leaders of underachievement; clarifying "at-risk" terminology; basic tomorrow. Spring is truly a principles of intervention; foundational models that have time of renewal and guided the Lost Prizes approach; a review of Manitoba growth - like today’s programs and the evolving Lost Prizes approach and ceremony, built on the programs. strong, rich traditions of Four one hour-long breakout sessions took place and the past, but that also included presenters Alan Wiebe and Melissa Harder celebrate the future, the (Mentoring for the Development of Resilience and Selfpotential of new life and Esteem); Philip Baker and Lisa Neufeld (The Voices of the opportunities to Lost Prizes: Reclaiming teachers of the future through an come.”

Alternative Education Program); Nadia Sadik and Amiskwaciy Academy Chandra Hildebrand (Reluctant Readers: How to Engage likes to thank those who All Readers, a toolbox for teachers) and Fred Hines make a positive difference (Engaging Community Partners: Implementing Wrapin the lives of the students Around Services in Your School). and as such it has a Amiskwaciy Academy is an Edmonton Public School tradition of giving back program of choice that provides solid academic with a special ‘thank-you’ programming within an Aboriginal context. to those who are making a The Academy maintains an on-going cultural exchange difference. The feast program with a number of Edmonton-area Elementary included the presentation Schools and has partnerships with various educational of a beautiful blanket to institutions, including the University of Alberta, NAIT, Louise Hayes, an active MacEwan and the University of Winnipeg.

Amiskwaciy Academy

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May, 2017

Alberta Native News

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Herb Belcourt Park unveiled in Sherwood Park

by John Copley In early January well known Métis Elder, community leader and former entrepreneur, Herb Belcourt, now 85 and retired, was diagnosed with terminal cancer; the prognosis gave him about a month to live. Nearly five months had passed since that day and though Herb has slowed his pace a little, he remains active, progressive and hopeful.

“Well, I am very happy to say that the early prediction was wrong,” noted the guest of honour, smiling as he sat next to a newly unveiled plaque on the corner of Sherwood Drive and Oak Street in his home community of Sherwood Park. The rugged stone fixture, complete with a mounted bronze plaque, was placed at the head of Herb Belcourt Park, an honour bestowed upon him by Strathcona County and Sherwood Park in appreciation for Herb’s many years of service and contributions to the community.

In a moment of jest, Herb drew a roar of laughter when he told the gathering that “originally the county had planned to name a road after me, but I didn’t really want that - I’ve been rolled over before. But, seriously, I’d really like to thank the county, the city, the committee, the community and everyone who has contributed in some way to make this day possible.”

The official unveiling took place on May 10. Herb was joined by his wife, Lesley, and a host of family members, friends, and supporters who came by to share a few minutes with their friend and neighbour. The crowd was dotted in red surge and police blue as local constabulary gathered to salute Herb Belcourt for his many years of service, not only to the region but also to the policing community. Herb received the Order of Canada in 2010 and until 2013 was an Aboriginal Advisor to the Commanding Officer at "K" Division for the RCMP. Before retiring after 35 years of service earlier this year, former RCMP Deputy Commissioner Marianne Ryan, presented Dr. Belcourt with a commendation and stated: “In addition to being a role model to all Canadians Dr. Belcourt’s contribution to the Royal Canadian Mounted

Police in this province exemplifies the highest level of leadership and commitment to public service.”

Among those attending the unveiling ceremony was the newly appointed Commanding Officer for the RCMP in Alberta, The new plaque features an image of Herb Belcourt with his grandsons.

Assistant Commissioner, them so much and I am so very proud of them, as anyone Todd Shean.

He thanked Dr. Belcourt for his “many years as an here would be if they have great grandchildren.” Later he ambassador” to the Commanding Officer. He also added, “Maybe one day when they are teenagers they committed to visiting with Herb to "seek your advice and might bring their friends here and let them know how your guidance as I assume my new role as commander of proud they are of their grandfather.”

In closing he noted how proud he was to have “so many K Division.” friends and family, including all those here in red (RCMP) Edmonton Police Service Superintendent Greg Preston today; you are also a part of my family and I am honoured was one of several EPS members to join the gathering at have been able to work alongside all of you.” to the newly named park. His memories go back to the midHerb was overjoyed with the unveiling ceremony and 1980’s. moved by the words he heard from every person who rose “I grew up in Sherwood Park and my family has made speak. to it their home. I remember the days of the movie theatre First cousin and business partner, Orval Belcourt said and it brings back some very good memories. You are a that the two had shared a close working relationship wonderful man and I want to thank you for everything together since 1969. you’ve done for the community.”

“Since Herb first moved to Sherwood Park in 1971 he's Preston was referring to the Sword and Shield movie an instrumental member of the community,” he been theatre, a venture that Dr. Belcourt brought to Sherwood noted.

“It is gratifying to see that Sherwood Park has Park in 1984; readers can learn more about that intriguing recognized his contributions to the county and to the adventure in Herb’s 2006 book, “Walking in the Woods: A Edmonton area as a whole.”

Métis Journey.”

Longtime friend Roy Louis, Chair of the Buffalo When the RCMP cover was removed from the newly Nations Luxton Museum and a prominent member of the erected honour stone a beautiful image appeared. It was Samson Cree community said, “This is a grand day for Herb Belcourt, sitting with his two young and smiling you and your family Herb and I am happy tthat you are great grandsons, Liam and Jackson, perched on his lap. here to see it all.

I’d like to take this time to thank you for The moment brought cheers of joy from the gathering everything you’ve done over the years for your while Lesley’s eyes glassed over and a tear flowed from community, your province and for all Canadians. Herb Herb’s eyes.

“My beautiful grandchildren,” he said quietly. “I love Continued on page 11

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Alberta Native News

May, 2017

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Volume 34, Number 5 May 2017 ISSN #08294135 www.albertanativenews.com

Indigenous innovators lead the way

EDITOR: Deborah Shatz

by John Copley

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On May 11, 2017 MacEwan University’s CN Theatre goal to counter climate change and its commitment “to and the Solar Energy Society of Alberta (SESA) played work with Indigenous communities on the province’s host to a public seminar, the last in the (2016-17) series. solar initiative.

The focus of the seminar centred on First Nations Solar, an “We live in a great province, an energy province” he energy source that is creating attention, gaining said. “It’s no secret that Alberta’s solar resources are very momentum and changing the habits of Canadians from abundant and it turns out that we are an energy province in coast to coast. every kind of way. According to Natural Resources A clean, reliable and robust source of energy, solar Canada, Alberta has some of the best solar opportunities in power is becoming more and more cost effective with the country, in fact, on the entire continent. We’re looking each passing month as global corporate technology for ways to ensure that our economy is more robust that it companies step up the work they’ve been doing for the has been in the past, more resilient. Solar energy is fitting past several decades to promote and develop a non-fossil into that quite well because there is so much available to fuel energy source to the masses. us.”

The recent SESA-sponsored seminar heard from several He spoke briefly on the recent move by Alberta to First Nations communities who have already stepped up to reduce the carbon print and recognized that “there is a bit the plate and taken advantage of the of controversy” on the subject, opportunities available in Alberta, adding “I can tell you that the money opportunities that have been enhanced that comes out of that carbon levy is by the NDP government’s being used as much as possible to determination to reduce the facilitate the green energy economy.” province’s carbon print. Pilot projects Minister Feehan noted that various are already underway and Alberta’s programs are underway, “the one in solar energy seekers are taking full my ministry is the Alberta Indigenous advantage of the opportunity to be Solar Plan, initiated last year. Its among the leaders in Canada when it primary focus is to reduce comes to developing programs and greenhouse gas. We just started a equipment and harnessing raw, small pilot project with a couple of reasonably inexpensive power million dollars and we immediately sources. had Indigenous communities from Desmond Bull SESA Board Chair Susan Petrina across the province applying for the opened the session with an solar panel project. We were able to introduction to the Society, insight fund 14 of them right away with the into the upcoming 18th annual Ecosmall amount of money I had but Solar Home Tour (June 3-4), and an soon we will be announcing some announcement that the society would other projects that are going forward. be increasing its presence in Calgary “We were so over-subscribed for when the next season gets underway our pilot project that we know the in September.

Indigenous community is there for Elder Johnathan Bull offered words this. I’ve visited the Montana and of wisdom during his opening Louis Bull Bands and I’ve seen the comments and welcoming prayer, solar they have already established encouraging every Indigenous leader in many ways way ahead of the Larron Northwest and community to “get on the curve. I think that’s showing real bandwagon” and begin to learn about leadership in the Indigenous and work with modern technology. communities and in a place where we need leadership in Co-Chairing the event was Louis Bull Tribe Councillor this province. I spoke with Chief Strongman of the and SESA Board Member, Desmond Bull. Other Montana Band and he said when they put the solar panels speakers and panel members included Montana First up on their big community building they were saving Nation Economic Development Director and General $2000 a month on energy costs. That means there’s an Manager of the Green Arrow Corporation (Akamihk), extra $24,000 (year) they can spend on the other important Vickie Wetchie; Samson Cree Councillor Larron projects they are working on. It’s a great success story.”

Northwest and Paul Wyminga, Director of Aboriginal In closing his remarks Minister Feehan noted that “over Development for Alberta. the next three years my ministry will be putting about The first speaker on the podium came as an unexpected $151 million into Indigenous communities. We’re going but welcome surprise - his name wasn’t on the agenda. to see some great movement over the next little while.

Petrina took the mic and introduced Alberta Indigenous We’re going to follow the leadership that the Indigenous Relations Minister Richard Feehan. communities have already demonstrated and I think we’re “I’m a great advocate of solar energy,” smiled Feehan, going to share some great success. It is these types of who is currently in the process of adding solar to his own seminars and workshops that are bringing people in and home. providing more opportunities for people to learn.”

The minister spoke about the Alberta Government’s Continued on page 9

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May, 2017

Alberta Native News

5

APTN announces largest National Aboriginal Day Celebration Eight Cities. One Great Gathering.

(Winnipeg, Manitoba – Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN) is excited to announce that on June 21, 2017, Aboriginal Day Live (ADL) — the largest celebration of National Aboriginal Day, a celebration of Aboriginal Peoples’ culture and heritage - will broadcast live from Halifax, Montréal, Ottawa, Toronto, Winnipeg, Yellowknife, Edmonton and Vancouver.

The 11th edition of ADL will make broadcast history. APTN will draw from the regional performances and air a 7-hour live multi-platform broadcast from 7 p.m.-

The legendary Buffy Sainte-Marie performed at Aboriginal Day Live 2016.

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2 a.m. ET to an expected of over audience 1,000,000 via TV, radio and online, bringing coastto-coast-to-coast celebrations to all of Canada and beyond. No other broadcaster has put Award winning rapper Joey Stylez at the 2016 APTN Aboriginal Day Live together such an event of Celebration. this magnitude to unite the aboriginaldaylive.ca or follow APTN’s Social Scene. country.

Complete programming and broadcast details will be Everyone is welcome to join the conversation anytime on announced later this month. In addition, hosts and artists’ Twitter or Instagram in using #ADL2017, and posts will lineup will be revealed, featuring over 70 star studded acts, be shared with the APTN social media audience.

National Aboriginal Day is a day for all Canadians to including Grammy, JUNO and Gala de l’ADISQ award recognize and celebrate the unique heritage, diverse recipients among others.

The only national Aboriginal broadcaster in North cultures, and outstanding achievements and contributions America invites all nations to the gathering, to celebrate of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples. It was first the unique heritage, diverse cultures, and outstanding celebrated on June 21, 1996, after being recognized through a proclamation by then Governor General Roméo achievements and contributions of Indigenous Peoples.

This event has hosted twin stages in Winnipeg and LeBlanc. National Aboriginal Day is part of the Celebrate another city nearly every year since 2007. For the 2017 Canada program, though most provinces do not recognize edition, Aboriginal Day Live has expanded its grassroots it as a statutory holiday.

Aboriginal Day Live is held annually since 2007 and is reach to more communities.

Out of the eight cities, this year will mark the first time the largest celebration of National Aboriginal Day, a that audiences in Montréal, Toronto and Vancouver will celebration of Aboriginal Peoples’ cultures and heritage experience the event live. All cities will have free daytime and the summer solstice in Canada. Aboriginal Peoples festivities followed by an evening concert. Each will be Television Network (APTN) presents the free day-time unique to the culture and people of the region. program of activities and evening concert in Winnipeg, Additionally, Aboriginal Day Live will host a welcoming MB, setting up a twin stage across the country for most stage from Toronto, the 2018 host city, and get a head start years. The LIVE multi-platform concert broadcast is on inviting audiences to come back and attend the event available to all Canadians and beyond via APTN, radio waves and online. For more information, please next summer.

For up-dates on this announcement, visit visit aboriginaldaylive.ca.

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Alberta Native News

May, 2017

Artist invites input for Edmonton's Tawatina Bridge Project

by John Copley summer, Last Edmonton issued a Request for Proposals that called on Canada’s Aboriginal artists to submit their concepts for an Indigenous art project that will be installed across the 200-metre Tawatinâ Bridge, an important LRT line and walkway that links the city’s South Side with the downtown portions David Garneau of the Valley Line LRT. Several months later Métis artist David Garneau was selected by a panel of jurors, including several highly regarded Indigenous Elders, to create paintings for the $295,000 Tawatinâ (Aboriginal Art) Bridge project, a name suggested by local Elders.

“Being chosen to lead this project was both exciting and humbling. I am honoured to have been selected,” Garneau commented in a recent conversation. He noted that he quickly realized that the sheer magnitude of the venture would call for some help, especially in preparatory and labour intensive tasks. Garneau was born and raised in Edmonton, but now lives in Regina so he engaged Edmonton artist AJA Loudin to help organize a crew of local Indigenous graffiti artists to help with three dozen of the 400 painted panels that will eventually cover the roof of the Bridge. Other young Indigenous artists in Regina are helping prepare the panels, do some under-painting, and research for the project.

The project, which is expected to take about two years to complete, will include 400 painted panels in varying sizes and shapes stretched across the ceiling of the pedestrian walkway under the tracks. The art that Garneau is creating will symbolize local Métis and First Nations culture, tradition and history and will present story after story for every person who sees it.

“When people walk There is symbolism in each piece of art that will be installed across the Tawatina through they’ll be able to Photo supplied.

Bridge in Edmonton. point to the images and talk about the stories that inspired them,” he noted. “The four That’s important but it’s not just about the artists talking elements - earth, fire, water and air - are incorporated into about their feelings or what they see in the world; the Metis have a bigger vision and that’s a cultural mission. the art.”

Garneau said that some of the panels will be “easy for That culture will be interwoven throughout the Tawatinâ most people to understand,” while others might be “more Art Bridge project and it will be reflected in such things as complex or complicated, including a number of stories the Red River cart, the Metis Sash, the intricate beaded patterns that symbolize Metis culture and more.” hidden within the artwork.”

The newly commissioned artist said he enjoys getting The idea of the project, he noted, is to educate and enlighten the masses and to present an installation that feedback, input and advice from First Nation and Metis honours Indigenous cultures and peoples while providing Elders and from the community as a whole, noting the input of one Elder who “suggested that the birds flying insight into the history of the region.

“A good part of this project is the community over the river valley could represent a flock of cranes. That consultation process that accompanies it,” noted Garneau. was a great idea and one that will be incorporated in the “I’ve met with numerous city and Indigenous leaders on project.”

The 400 panels needed to complete the project will the project and the Elders continue to play an integral come in a variety of sizes and shapes and will be “as small role.”

Garneau has already consulted with local Elders and as eight inches by eight inches (20cm) and in the case of Indigenous storytellers - including the Cree, and Métis. the cranes and the York Boat, as large as 21 feet (7 m).”

The panels will utilize Dibond material, an expensive Their words will help him to create the symbolism represented in the artwork currently being created for the but necessary aluminum media coated in plastic, that will receive several coats of paint and two coats of varnish to project.

“In June,” explains Garneau, “I’ll be meeting with Metis ensure strength, durability and longevity in inclement Nation of Alberta President Audrey Poitras and her staff; I weather.

Each panel is shaped like a plant, animal or other object want to ensure that permission protocols are met. When I’m looking at incorporating certain patterns or related to the River Valley, and the interior will be a symbolisms, I want to ensure that I am doing it in a way painting related to that first shape. For example, one panel that honours the community. Louis Riel once said that the will present the image of a Top Hat, symbolic of the Metis people would sleep for 100 years and when they Continued on page 7 awoke it would be the artists that would lead the way.

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May, 2017

Alberta Native News

7

NorQuest College honours artist Alex Janvier NorQuest College 2017 honorary diploma recipient and artist Alex Janvier has spent almost his entire life viewing the world through his canvases.

So with this honour, the latest of many presented to him over his heralded career, Janvier has taken the time to paint a proverbial picture on why his character, image, and legacy align nicely with NorQuest College – a place where diversity is a pivotal brush stroke in the making of its own image.

“It is a great honour,” said the 82 year old Cold Lake resident, who is a member of the Order of Canada and the Alberta Order of Excellence. “I know that NorQuest has a very strong Indigenous presence. This diploma will provide me the opportunity to tell a few educated people that they are right (to follow that path).”

Janvier’s own history with education is vast, troubling, and successful all at the same time. He is a graduate of the Alberta College of Art (1960), has taught at the University of Alberta Extension Department, and he easily remembers back to a time as a student in the residential school system. While rightfully viewed as a stain on the

Tawatina

cont. from p 6

importance of the beaver pelt trade during the 18th and 19th centuries; its interior will have a beaver lodge.

Another will highlight the canoe, but its interior might have the painting of river. A Northern Pike, both symbolic of sustenance and survival, a way of life, has a map of Edmonton’s River lots circa 1880 on it.

Now living and teaching in Regina, the new commission has given David Garneau the opportunity to reconnect with his family, friends and roots in Edmonton.

He said his interest in the project is both professional and personal in that the Tawatinâ Bridge is very close to the river lot where his ancestors set up their home.

“It is inspiring to come back here and I’ve enjoyed the frequent trips back and forth between Regina and Edmonton this year. To be able to return here to complete a proposal that honours our connection to this place is an opportunity of a lifetime. When completed, this project will honour our nation’s Indigenous communities and in particular shed light and create awareness about our connection to this place. Thanks to the input of our Elders, our civic leaders and the community at large the Tawatinâ Bridge Art Project will become an attraction that will tell many stories and present an array of art that will embrace the fauna, the wildlife, the people and the events that have taken place during the past two and a half centuries.”

The commission has also given Garneau the opportunity to reconnect with friends and others whose families and ancestors in the Capital Region date back to the mid and late 1800s. Papaschase First Nation Chief Calvin Bruno is among them.

“Chief Bruno and I are very pleased and proud to have

Canadian consciousness, he still views that experience as what put him on a path to artistic greatness.

He recalls school officials setting aside a half day a week for arts and crafts.

“That was the perfect outing for me. It took me out of the rules and Renowned artist Alex Janvier will be one of two honorary diploma recipients at the regulations of the world.”

College convocation ceremony on May 25.

NorQuest It wasn’t long before he was being mentored by To the benefit of Canadians and the art world, Janvier Carlo Altenberg, a teacher with the University of Alberta chose to make it his life.

Faculty of Extension.

“My art is modern but it is also based on my “He saw something in me, I guess. He and the principal background,” says the man who describes himself as a of the school I was at made a decision that I would be Canadian before anything else. “It’s powerful.” tutored by him. That was really a moment of truth on And now so is his presence to all of those who are whether I would choose art as a life or as just a play thing.” NorQuest College students and alumni. renewed our Garneau/Papaschase connection,” explained Garneau, who noted that “Calvin’s great great grandfather, Chief Papaschase and my great great grandfather, Laurent Garneau, were very good friends - and that’s a tradition we intend to maintain.”

Edmonton’s Garneau District, one of the city’s oldest neighbourhoods, is named for Laurent Garneau, who along with his wife Eleanor, fled their home on Manitoba’s Red River in 1874 and moved to Edmonton.

David Garneau was born and raised in Edmonton. He began creating art at a very young age and credits his mother for his early interest in the discipline. His popularity as an emerging artist helped propel Garneau to a full time career as an artist but first, he wanted to complete his education. He graduated from the University of Calgary (1989) with a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Drawing and Painting. In 1993 he earned his Masters of Arts in American Literature. He taught at both the Alberta College of Art and the University of Calgary, and since 1999 has been an Associate Professor of Visual Arts at the University of Regina.

Edmonton and area residents are encouraged to participate in the project by offering suggestions and by relating the personal stories of their families and ancestors.

“I am looking for

suggestions from Indigenous people who lived or live in the region,” encouraged Garneau. “Tell me what stories you believe need to be be told. I am also looking for thoughts and ideas from non-Indigenous people who have a close connection with the River Valley. For example, I would like to include images/stories from the carvings that were part of the previous bridge. Do you have a memory to share? If so please contact me.”

Garneau’s art works are in many public and private collections; his solo exhibition, “Cowboys and Indians (and Metis?)” toured Canada (from 2003 to 2007). He has also curated several large group exhibitions and written numerous catalogue essays and reviews and was a cofounder and co-editor (1989 to 2005) of Artichoke and Cameo magazines.

To participate in the Tawatinâ Art Bridge Project visit tawatinabridgeartproject.ca.

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Alberta Native News

May, 2017

WHL star Ethan Bear has a great future in hockey On May 3, 2017, the Western Hockey League announced the names of the league’s best overall position players, coaches, rookies and more. Among those chosen was Seattle Thunderbirds defenceman, Ethan Bear, a member of Saskatchewan’s Ochapowace Nation and one of six Saskatchewan-born players on the Thunderbird’s roster.

“It was quite an honour for me,” said the rising 19-yearold hockey star in an interview a few hours before his team would hit the ice to play the visiting Regina Pats in the tiebreaking Game 5 of the 2017 conference showdown.

“There’s a lot of ups and downs being a hockey player and at times it can be quite tough, but when you put your nose to the grindstone and work hard to achieve your goals and then get rewarded for it, it’s a pretty nice feeling.”

On Sunday, May 14, the Seattle Thunderbirds went on to beat the Regina Pats in six games and for the first time in their storied history, won the WHL Championship and took home the Ed Chynoweth Cup. The next step is a trip to Ontario where the team will participate in the competition that will determine who goes to the 2017 Memorial Cup. The round robin play gets underway May 19; the Seattle Thunderbirds play their first game on May

Ethan Bear - WHL Defenceman of the Year

by John Copley 20th against Conner McDavid’s former OHL team, the Erie Otters.

“Ethan has a lot of skill and he’s probably got the best slap shot in the league,” noted Public and Media Relations Director, Ian Henry. He’s also a right-handed player and that’s hard to find in a good defenceman, even in the NHL today most shoot left.

And that could bode well during the next year or two for the Edmonton Oilers, whose defencemen are currently all left-handed shooters. The team selected Bear during the fifth round (124 overall) in the 2015 NHL Draft and signed him to a three-year entry level contract on July 2, 2016.

“He’s a hard, 5’11” player who thinks fast, moves quick and recovers rebounds as well as anyone,” added Henry.

“He’s definitely got what it takes to make the NHL and will go to the Oilers training camp later this year. He may not play for the big club in the upcoming season, but his skills continue to improve and it won’t be long before he’s ready.”

Bear still has one year of junior eligibility remaining, but the Oiler contract could see him join their AHL affiliate, the Bakersfield Condors, later this fall.

Ethan Bear isn’t thinking that far ahead; during our interview he was preparing for the next game and a possible trip to compete for the Memorial Cup. He did note, however, that he was looking forward to playing the next couple of games in Regina.

“I have quite a few family members and friends and it’s always good to have some support in the other guy’s rink,” he noted, saying he expected that good crowds would continue in Regina.

In fact, just a week later and with three straight wins under their belt, the team came away with a 4-3 overtime win and when they looked up the only fans left in Regina’s Brandt Centre were Thunderbirds fans.

After the final game Bear told the Leader-Post that “seeing the crowd we had, it felt like home ice; without them I don’t think we could have done it. It’s amazing to look at all my family and all my friends. I’m not the only guy from Saskatchewan, so I bet they all feel the same. We knew it wasn’t going to be

Ochapowace's Ethan Bear hoists the Ed Chynoweth Cup for the Seattle Thunderbirds. Photo by Keith Hershmiller

easy right from the get-go. Every time they were down in a series they came back and won. We knew that. We just stuck to it. It feels amazing.”

Thunderbirds Centre Mathew Barzal was named the WHL playoff MVP, recording seven goals and 25 points in 16 games. Ethan Bear was in the mix, scoring six goals and contributing 20 assists in 17 playoff games.

It is interesting to note that no Saskatchewan club has won the league title since the Swift Current Broncos did it in 1993.

When speaking about his home community, Bear said he enjoys working with and spending time with the youth at Ochapowace. The entire community supports him and “are always there cheering me on.”

Bear encourages the younger members of his community to “stay in school and finish your education.

You can’t do anything these days unless you have a high school diploma. Education comes first - when you have it then you find something you really like to do and stick with it. Work hard and make every effort to stay on the path to success. Life might not be easy but when you have an education and a worthy goal, it feels great when you achieve it.”

For more Bear stats and information check out the seattlethunderbirds.com website.

May, 2017

Alberta Native News

9

IRS Survivors take back their spirit

by Regan Treewater Named for Chief Pihtokahanapiwiyin (1842-46), Poundmaker’s Lodge in Edmonton remains dedicated to treating the many regrettable outcomes of long-term trauma. First established in 1973, Poundmaker’s is a facility specializing in the supportive rehabilitation of those with addiction and substance abuse problems through the traditions of First Nations holistic healing. On March 27, as the final signs of winter began to melt away, Poundmaker’s hosted a very special ceremony of healing – not for the wounds of drugs and alcohol, but for the devastating scars that still remain as reminders of a legacy of oppression and abuse in Canada’s residential school system. The current treatment facility is located on the site of what was once the Edmonton Indian Residential School; a single building serves as a grim and haunting reminder.

The occasion ‘Take Back Your Spirit Journey’ brought survivors from British Columbia and Alberta together at Poundmaker’s for a closed ceremony. A sombre

Solar Power

cont. from p 4

Former educator Desmond Bull enrolled in a five-day solar energy course then went on to develop energy efficiency and solar projects for his home community. Last summer he was appointed to the Alberta Energy Efficiency Advisory Panel by Shannon Phillips, Minister of Environment and Parks and the Minister Responsible for the Climate Change Office.

“We saw the initiative undertaken by the Montana Tribe and what the Green Energy Company was doing with solar and we drew our inspiration from there. Our goal with solar is to offset our energy costs and to repurpose the savings into other much-needed programs within our Tribe’s various departments. This type of project allowed us to create our own energy, pass that development on through training and be environmentally responsible.”

Bull went on to talk about the numerous solar projects that have been completed on the Louis Bull Nation. Louis Bull’s Tribal Training Centre, Public Works building and Fire Hall, and the Maskwacis Health Centre are among the projects already completed. Some residential homes and street lighting have also been installed. He estimates that the projected savings of the work already completed will amount to about $7,500 a year on average.

Desmond Bull went on to emphasize that training initiatives, viable partnerships and ongoing communication both within and outside the community are among the main ingredients to ensuring successful solar initiatives.

The Montana Band at Maskwacis owns and operates Canada’s first Aboriginal Renewable Energy Corporation.

Their solar energy company, Green Arrow Corp, is already developing strategic partnerships with First Nations communities and is helping them to learn about and develop their own solar programs and initiatives.

Vickie Wetchie said her community and solar energy corporation is “dedicated to promoting, enabling and growing community based green energy systems at First Nations communities in Alberta, Saskatchewan and B.C.” a mission it is accomplishing through the formation of strategic partnerships to identify and assess the feasibility of clean renewal energy projects on their lands.

Though it wasn’t an easy task to convince Chief and Council to become involved in solar energy because of the community’s limited resources, they worked together to explore every angle and possibility. They brought thenpartner Enmax in from Calgary to further explore the benefits of solar energy and in the end got the go-ahead from the Band’s administration to move ahead with the project.

“We’ve been successful with it,” noted Wetchie, who said the Montana Band’s first project saw the installation of a 100 kw system on the community’s Administration Building. Last summer the company did a retro-fit that upgraded the community’s lighting systems to LED lighting. Training initiatives have also been put in place, thanks to the band’s willingness to move ahead even though support from the federal government was slow in coming.

“They thought we were a bit crazy at first,” noted Wetchie, “but we put our money where our mouth was and in the end they saw the value and paid for the training.”

Community support, she noted, played an integral role in the success of the venture, something she urged every

procession filed into a circular stone room in the centre of the main building, and as the doors shut, the healing ceremony began.

Outsiders, all of whom congregated in the lobby, could smell the thick pungent fragrance of smudging, while the occasional beat of a single drum reverberated intermittently.

Following the lengthily gathering in the central hall, participants formed a procession that snaked its way along a dirt road to the site of the former Edmonton Indian Residential School. Adorned in traditional regalia Treaty 6 chiefs chanted melodically while accompanied by drumming. The lawn, drenched with the heavy remnants of thawing snow made the building appear even more dilapidated and unwelcoming as Continued on page 11

community to engage in. Community engagement, she assured, is very important in that it not only generates support, but also instills a sense of pride when improvements are made to the community by its own members, members who have taken the training courses and learned the ins and outs of solar power.

“When you can cut costs and save money,” she noted, “everyone benefits and everyone is happy.”

Though each of the speakers had different stories to share about their venture into solar energy, there was a common theme throughout the evening meeting: working with the community, taking advantage of programs and funding being developed by the province and the federal government, meeting with Alberta’s Chiefs and Councils about solar energy possibilities in their communities and developing an open dialogue about the benefits of solar energy are all key to generating successful initiatives.

“It’s been a pleasure to sit and listen to the wonderful stories being told here this evening about these remarkable people and the projects they’ve developed and the money they are saving in their individual communities,” noted Paul Wyminga. “I get a real sense of the passion and the drive and the interest from the community.”

Through slides and dialogue Wyminga noted that what was initially a project designed to save money and reduce carbon, solar energy “is much more than that. It’s about providing opportunities, it’s about looking at the community as a whole, it’s about how solar energy impacts the community” Those impacts include such things as the creation of partnerships, training programs and employment opportunities.

Today, it is also about meeting goals.

“One of the main pieces (to the puzzle) under the Renewable Energy Act is the legislation that calls on the province to have 30 percent of its electricity coming from renewable sources such as wind, hydro and solar by 2030.”

Wyminga also noted and lauded the work that’s already been accomplished by the First Nations communities participating in the seminar, work that was achieved even before the government’s two pilot projects kicked in last year. He went on to talk about (funded) programs for both Indigenous and nonIndigenous communities that will be initiated in the coming month and years.

The overall message of the

seminar on First Nations Solar Energy is twofold: first, solar energy has become a proven and viable method of delivering energy in a more sustainable, cost effective and eco-friendly way. Second, Indigenous communities are among the leaders in the development of solar power initiatives and as such can and will be among the first to realize the benefits of this relatively new (development and marketing) source of power.

The Solar Energy Society of Alberta (SESA) was formed in 1976 as the Northern Alberta Chapter of the Solar Energy Society of Canada Inc. (SESCI-NAC) to advance the awareness, understanding and use of solar energy as well as other renewable energy and conservation technologies. They are located in Edmonton.

To learn more and to see how your community can capitalize on solar energy opportunities see the Alberta Indigenous Solar Program website at: indigenous.alberta.ca

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Alberta Native News

May, 2017

Evert Poor receives SAGE community builder award

by Terry Lusty His surname is Poor, as in Evert Poor. But, don't let the surname mislead you. You see, he is poor in name only.

Truth be known, he is rich, quite rich - in his culture that is. And he enriches the lives of those around him by sharing the knowledge of his Metis history and culture, in addition to that of the early life at Fort Edmonton.

It is a vibrant, colourful and historic culture that evolved in early Canada when First Nations people and European settlers met, mixed and produced a new race of people that came to be known as Metis and Halfbreeds. Poor's knowledge has been generously shared and he has educated innumerable individuals and groups about the history of the Fort and the Metis who worked there. This he has done as a volunteer for more than 17 years!

While his contributions were appreciated by audiences over those 17 years, there had not been a public acknowledgment of his dedication and service until May 10th when the Edmonton seniors’ organization known as SAGE held its 11th annual Sage Awards and banquet at the city's downtown Chateau Lacombe Hotel.

The awards event also recognized nine additional recipients in eight other categories at one of Edmonton's more prestigious events that focuses on the city's senior population.

Scheduled from 11 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. the occasion included a sit-down banquet, words of welcome and greetings from Edmonton Centre MP Randy Boissonnault and MLA David Shepherd. Additional speakers included Edmonton Councilor Andrew Knack and SAGE President of the Board, Reg Joseph.

Evert Poor’s award was in the category of community building. He sits on the Telus Community Ambassadors National Council which supports 23 national clubs with over 4,400 members, "encouraging employees to further engage their local communities, and to give where they live." Additionally, Poor sits on and has served various boards and committees such as the Strathcona Archaeological Society, the Single Parent Family Association, the Merchants Association, and more.

Poor's exemplary involvement as a Captain at Fort Edmonton Park is largely thanks to the expansive knowledge he acquired from his Saulteaux mother, as well as the extensive reading and research he has executed on the subject of Metis history and culture and the history of Fort Edmonton.

His father, however, despite being Metis, "never really talked about his roots, and never identified as a Metis," like so many others of his time.

Nonetheless, Poor engrossed himself in researching and reading about his history, culture and people. This appetite for learning was to be a plus for him, especially when he went to volunteer at Fort Edmonton Park.

"I became involved because I wanted my children to learn their heritage," says Poor.

He was born in Lloydminster but was raised mostly in Red Deer where his mother is currently active with the Native Friendship Centre. Poor later moved to Edmonton (1988), and then next door to Sherwood Park where he presently resides.

He obtained a radio and television arts degree from Mount Royal University and worked at Radio CKRD in Red Deer before moving over to more financially sound employment with Alberta Government Telephones, now called Telus.

As for today, Poor is virtually a walking, talking history book, a man obviously very enamoured by his own Metis heritage and the role his people played in the early development of the Fort Edmonton region.

"I enjoy talking about Metis history, and the people who lived in the fort. It's important to share that history," he states matter-of-factly. And that's precisely what he loves about his volunteering at Fort Edmonton Park.

"People who lived and worked in the fort were generally Metis people and some were (other people) from the Orkney Islands (in Great Britain)."

They worked mainly "on the boats and Red River carts but, primarily, most were labourers on the York Boats (that went) to York Factory and back," he explains. "They cut

Evert Poor received a SAGE award for his exemplary volunteerism, educating patrons about Metis history at Fort Edmonton Park.

wood, hunted, trapped, did maintenance on the fort, and up-keep."

Poor also talks about the involvement of the Blackfoot people in the Edmonton region as well as the pre-history of the area which he claims goes back at least 5,000 years.

When questioned about the fort's location on the north side of the Saskatchewan River, Poor explains that this gave the fort more daytime sunlight and, thus, longer growing seasons for their gardens and crops. It additionally lent itself to less clearing of the land for crops and gardens.

As for his SAGE Award, Poor, who was nominated by the fort's volunteer coordinator, Judy Glenn, admits, "I was humbled by the honour," and "very impressed by it."

"The occasion gave me the chance to talk about Metis heritage. It made me happy to talk about the contributions of our people."

The SAGE Awards are open annually to anyone over the age of 65 who lives in the greater Edmonton area. The Aboriginal community is encouraged to nominate deserving individuals for a SAGE Award. For more information contact JoLynn Parenteau at 780-701-9010 or visit mysage.ca.

Onion Lake Community Healing & Wellness Program Is Currently Hiring POSITION: Program Manager for Ekweskeet Healing Lodge, full time position (Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)

LOCATION: Ekweskeet Healing Lodge, Onion Lake, SK ACCOUNTABILITY: Accountable to the Director of Health, Onion Lake Health Board Inc., Onion Lake Health Board Inc. EDUCATION: Graduation from a recognized college or university with a degree or equivalent in social work, psychology, sociology and addictions or related field: or any combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, abilities and skills; Possessing a current certificate in the field of addictions treatment will be a definite asset GENERAL DESCRIPTION: The Program Manager oversees the operations of Ekweskeet Healing Lodge programs and ensures goals and objectives are met. The Program Manager provides leadership in development, implementation and evaluation of programs and support/supervise program staff in program delivery. The Program Manager monitors, manages and oversees the planning, coordination and administration of Ekweskeet Healing Lodge and ensures adherence to OLHBI policies and procedures.

Please submit a complete application with the following to Karla Bird at Onion Lake Health Board Inc. karla.bird@onionlakehealth.org or fax: 306-344-2375: Resume, Cover letter, current Criminal Record/Child Abuse Check and Driver’s abstract Deadline for submissions are: May 24, 2017 at 4:00pm

Book your National Aboriginal Day greeting ad at Alberta Native News today!

Call Dan at 780-421-7966 or email natnews@shaw.ca

May, 2017

Alberta Native News

Survivors

cont. from p 9

the names of departed residents were read out amidst the hissing of wind across the open field. “We are here to release these spirits still trapped here so they can return to their cultural home,” declared the presiding chief in closing.

When asked about how it felt to return to this site so many years later, organizer Ray Jones explained that, to travel to Edmonton for the healing ceremony he had taken the exact same journey by train that he had taken back in 1956 when he and his brother were first sent to the Edmonton Indian Residential School. He remembers returning home with his younger brother after their first year away and begging his parents not to send his little brother back. But despite all the trauma of being snatched from his home and sent away Jones does say that attending the healing ceremony gave him an opportunity to celebrate the bonds of some lifelong friendships. The 71-year-old grandfather has participated in this annual gathering for

Herb Belcourt

cont. from p 3

and I have sat on some of the same boards over the years and I’m proud to have worked with him and to see the positive difference he’s made in the lives of so many people.”

Louis is a former president of the Indian Association of Alberta, a Queen’s diamond jubilee medal recipient. In December 2013, he was the recipient of a life time achievement award from the Alberta Aboriginal Role Models initiative.

John Vrolijk has known Herb for more than 40 years and he told the gathering that “Herb has done so much for the county, the province and the country that it would take us all afternoon to go through his many accomplishments.

I’m proud to call you my friend, Herb and though I realize just how much you have already accomplished, I also realize that you are not done yet.”

The final comments came from Sherwood Park Councillor Lytton Delaney who congratulated and thanked Herb for his many years of service to the community and expressed the gratitude felt by Strathcona’s mayor and council.

“It’s an absolute privilege to be here this afternoon on behalf of Herb and his family and the wonderful work he’s done in the community all these years. Because of you and the work you’ve done Herb, Sherwood Park is a better place today.”

Lesley told the gathering well-wishers that “our family thanks you most heartedly for coming out today; we are both gratified by your support and well wishes, not just here now but for the last few months. Four months ago, Herb was diagnosed as having a month to live; that diagnosis was wrong and we are so fortunate to have this wonderful extended time together - to have seen so many friends come to visit with Herb, to talk with him, share

11 the last three years and plans to return next year for the forth and final instalment of the series. Although the ‘Take Back Your Spirit Journey’ initiative was only intended to take place over a four years period, the group has further plans to begin developing an educational curriculum for children in grade school. Jones, who is extremely excited for the impact that the curriculum hopes to have, expressed his desire to preserve this history for future generations – especially those without the resource of survivor memories to guide them.

From the metaphorical ashes of a corrupt and diabolical system the Poundmaker’s site is now one of restoration and healing. Survivors like Jones and his long-time companions will always be psychologically tethered to the location, but significant efforts are being made to nurture an ongoing curative process. It is especially meaningful that Poundmaker’s Lodge continues to be a leader in the field of addiction treatment. The roots of the site’s history go deep, but soon the impact of so much physical and spiritual healing will hopefully see that the land assumes new notoriety as a place of rebirth and hope. coffee with him and put his mind at ease in these trying times.”

In a conversation at his home and away from the crowds Herb confided that he still has one mission he’d like to see fulfilled.

“It’s just a vision,” he noted, “but it’s one that I have had for many years now. I’d like to see the creation of a unique, holistic healing centre for women - a recovery facility complete with all the professionals needed on site and close by. I call my vision, Healing Waters because if it becomes a reality I’d like to see the facility built at Métis Crossing, close to the river and near the old church.”

In fact, several years ago Herb was hopeful that he’d be able to purchase a piece of land owned by Roz Shepherd near the shores of Lac St. Anne but the deal fell through.

“That idea didn’t work out, but the desire remains strong and though I may not be able to see it done myself, I am hopeful that someone will step up and take over where I’ve left off,” he emphasized. “I’ve planted some seeds and created some dialogue with MNA President Audrey Poitras and several government entities, including Alberta Health. It will be an expensive process because it will be a fully equipped centre with a full array of services for women who want to break away from abusive partners or rid themselves of drug and alcohol addictions. It would have a full-time psychologist, psychiatrist, nursing staff and in essence access to all of the professionals required to maximize success.”

He chose Métis Crossing “because it is a 550-acre parcel of land owned by the Métis people of Alberta. It

IRS survivors gather at the former site of the Edmonton Residential School for a special healing ceremony.

is a quiet place with a restful atmosphere and lots of room to stretch your legs and grow your mind.”

Canative Housing, a corporation once owned by Herb Belcourt and his partners, Orval Belcourt and Georges Brosseau, donated the land to the Métis people of Alberta in 2001.

“I’d like to see a small 20 or 30 acre parcel of land utilized for the site,” he added. “My vision is to see flowers, a garden area and root cellar to store the food and trails for the staff and clients to walk on. If built it would include all of the amenities and provide a safe and secure place where people, especially clients, would feel comfortable and be able to focus on healing their bodies and their minds.”

Herb said he’s already spoken with the MNA president and she is willing to “do what she can to help ensure that the project can get underway sometime” down the road.

In the meantime, Herb and Lesley Belcourt have a smaller vision and a different goal.

“We’d like to be able to celebrate our 44th wedding anniversary together,” noted Lesley, “and that will take place on June 30.”

APPLICATIONS NOW BEING ACCEPTED FOR INDIVIDUALS DEADLINE: JUNE 2, 2017 5:00 p.m. EST Applications are currently available online at www.nibtrust.ca.

The NIB Trust Fund is accepting applications from First Nation and Métis individuals to support education programs aimed at healing, reconciliation and knowledge building.

All First Nations and Métis citizens over the age of 18 and with a valid social insurance number are eligible for funding through a competitive application process. Preference will be given to former students of residential schools and their family members.

The NIB Trust Fund allocates funds in accordance with the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement of 2007 – the largest settlement agreement in Canadian history which provided compensation to survivors for their experiences at residential school. The NIB Trust Fund offers a new opportunity separate from Indian residential schools compensation packages.

For more information please contact the National Indian Brotherhood Trust Fund directly.

Toll-free: 1-888-268-0520 E-mail: info@nibtrust.ca

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Alberta Native News

May, 2017