Winter 2008 by Kiwetin Marketing & Publishing

the voice of the Métis community in British Columbia

Winter 2008, Vol. 5, Issue 3

* RCMP - Career of Choice • Vancouver 2010 Updates • MNBC Program Updates • Great Wildlife Recipes Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

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PHONE: 250.545.2341 | TOLL FREE BC: 1.800.663.6432 Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009 EMAIL: mel@waysideprinters.com | www.waysideprinters.com

Winter 2008, Vol. 5, Issue 3

The voice of the Métis community in British Columbia

RCMP Career? It’s never too early to plan

MNBC Annual General Meeting Highlights Successful Métis Students

Contents Publishers Kiwetin Marketing & Publishing Ltd. Owners Noël and Diane Mineault CONTACT US P.O. Box 1266, Vernon, BC V1T 6N6

Phone: Toll-Free: Fax: E-mail: Website:

250.558.7997 1.866.558.7997 250.558.4178 kiwetin@shaw.ca www.kiwetin.com

ISSN 1916-7490 (Print) ISSN 1916-7504 (Online) Cover Photo: Stagecoach Ken Babione, Bishop, CA

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

Message from the Publishers Whispering Winds is Expanding!

Tansi! Welcome to our 18th issue of Whispering Winds! We wish all of you a very Merry Christmas and a Prosperous 2009. These past 5 years have been very exciting and our readership continues to grow at an alarming rate. We are so thankful to have you as readers, advertisers and contributors. Each magazine has so many stories and pictures that are sent in by our readers and we really appreciate your support. In 2009 Whispering Winds will hit the newsstands! We will increase our circulation to surpass the 30,000readership mark and we will increase our publication to 5 issues a year. For our new look we encourage all First Nations, Métis and Inuit people from across Canada to submit stories about art, culture, economic development opportunities, successful aboriginal businesses or simply stories about your life experience. It is our hope that people from around the world read about all of the First Canadians culture. We want to showcase our diversified culture from the shores of Newfoundland to rocks of Vancouver Island, from North to South. Call or email Noel or Diane and let’s get started! The amount of hits on our new website is amazing; see www.kiwetin.com Big news – You can now pay for your subscription online and use Paypal. I want to thank our support team for helping to prepare this Christmas issue. Without your patience and hard work we could not produce such a great magazine. Special thanks goes to Cassandra Redding, Steve Dills, Wayside Printers, Brian Armstrong, Leanne Laberge, Wanda Magnan, Dale Letourneau, Kim Hayek, all MNBC Ministers, Directors, citizens and advertisers. We apologize if your articles or photos do not appear in this issue. Many photos were rejected due to the fact that they were not clear enough to print. Please call us so that we can assist you in sending highresolution photos. www.kiwetin.com

Subscribe to Whispering Winds Never miss another copy. Some back issues are still available. Subscriptions are available for $32.00 per year. Send your cheque or money order to Kiwetin Marketing & Publishing Ltd., Box 1266, Vernon, B.C. V1T 6N6. Contact us regarding bulk subscriptions. DEADLINE for Spring issue of Whispering Winds is February 4, 2009. DELIVERY DATE IS early March, 2009. Special features EDUCATION! Publishers reserve the right to edit all material and to refuse any controversial articles that may be in conflict with our values. Electronic images must be supplied in a high resolution (300 dpi or greater) or risk not being published due to poor output quality.

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

STOP THE PRESSES!

2010 Olympics

boriginal culture is being recognized as the country gets ready for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics.

The route of the Olympic Torch Relay will pass through 115 Aboriginal communities on its route from coast to coast to coast starting in Victoria and ending in Vancouver. “Aboriginal culture is an important part of Canada’s history. It’s also an important part of our present, and our future,” said Tewanee Joseph, executive director and chief executive officer for the Four Host First Nations Society (FHFN). “In the spirit of Aboriginal participation for the 2010 Winter Games, VANOC (Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games) and the FHFN engaged with Aboriginal leaders and communities early in the planning of the relay.”

the Coca-Cola Company and RBC, presenting partners for the 2010 Olympic Torch Relay. The torchbearer selection will engage applicants in committing to what they can do to make themselves, their community and their country a better place. The FHFN are working with VANOC to recognize and celebrate Aboriginal history, art, culture and language throughout the 2010 Winter Games. This means ensuring the games maximizes opportunities for Aboriginal peoples and respects traditions and protocols. As with all important events, the Four Host First Nations conducted a witnessing ceremony just prior to the Nov. 21st announcement to ensure the information and the spirit would be spread to Aboriginal communities near and far.

“Running with the Olympic Torch in your hand and the Olympic Spirit in your heart is a feeling like no other,”

The Four Host First Nations have come together in an unprecedented partnership to maximize the opportunities and the benefits of the 2010 Winter Games. Since signing a protocol with the VANOC, the role of the FHFN has expanded to ensure they engage with and showcase the unique diversity of all the Aboriginal peoples in Canada — the First Nations, Inuit and Métis.

The Olympic torch relay route will reach most of Canada, travelling from coast to coast to coast reaching 115 Aboriginal communities; however, every one of the 1,020 stops and celebrations will be able to highlight diversity of Aboriginal peoples in Canada along the way. “As the torch passes through communities across Canada, we are pleased to see the Métis culture will be included in many ways,” said Bruce Dumont, Métis National Council Minister for Heritage, Culture, Language and Sport. “Our story will be told through our participating torchbearers as well as through the many celebrations and performances across Canada on the way to the torch’s final destination in Vancouver.” Many Canadians will have the opportunity to become an Olympic Torchbearer through public programs offers by

“The witnessing ceremony is an important part of our culture,” said FHFN Chief Leah George Wilson of the Tsleil-Waututh Nation. “It is an opportunity for us to record history in our traditional ways, ensuring the story will spread far and live on for generations.

In keeping with First Nations oral traditions dating back thousands of years, each of the witnesses were called upon, and entrusted, to formally witness the day’s events to unveil the Olympic Torch Relay route and carry its message of invitation to their communities. Canadians interested in becoming one of the lucky 12,000 torchbearers will have several opportunities to apply at rbc. com/carrythetorch and icoke.ca. “Running with the Olympic Torch in your hand and the Olympic Spirit in your heart is a feeling like no other,” said John Furlong, chief executive officer of VANOC. “Torchbearers from all corners of Canada and all walks of life will unite the country in the lead up to the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games. Together with our partners Coca-Cola and RBC, we invite all Canadians to participate - either through applying to be a torchbearer or by joining the celebration as the relay crosses this great country.”

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

STOP THE PRESSES!

2010 Olympics

ancouver’s 2010 Olympics are shaping up to be among the best in the history of the international winter games.

As the deadline passed for the first phase of ticketing, an estimated 120 of 170 ticketed sessions were oversubscribed due to demand exceeding the available tickets. In terms of dollars, Canadians have already requested approximately four and a half times the value of tickets in Phase 1 for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games ($345 million over five weeks), compared to the first phase of ticketing ($75 million over nine weeks) for the Salt Lake City 2002 Winter Olympic Winter Games, the most recent Olympic Games held in North America, according Caley Denton, vice president, ticketing and consumer marketing for the Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (VANOC). “Canadians are clearly not only excited to welcome the world, but are also excited to be here in person to witness the thrill of competition in 2010,” he said. But the games are not just about sports. They’re also about culture and showing Canada to the world. One of the initiatives has been involvement of Canada’s aboriginal community — the First Nations, Inuit and Métis. “VANOC’s goal is to achieve unprecedented Aboriginal participation in the planning and hosting of the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games,” according to the organization’s website. “Building strong relationships with Aboriginal peoples is critical to achieving our goal of unprecedented Aboriginal participation. That’s why we’re working closely with local, provincial and national Aboriginal groups — First Nations, Inuit and Métis — both in our games planning and in sharing information with the Aboriginal community.” One way the organization is highlighting its involvement is through the Find Your Passion in Sport poster campaign which celebrates the achievements and dreams of young, talented up-and-coming Aboriginal athletes from across the country.

Métis biathlete Mareck Beaudoin, from Quebec, is one of three athletes being profiled this year. “These athletes embody the true spirit of the Winter Games: they are dedicated to their sport, persevere through challenges and compete in a spirit of friendship and fair play.” Behind all the organizing and activity leading up to this international festival of sport, is a Métis who’s known as a “cautious optimist, a visionary and a modest overachievement” words that were used when Jack Poole was honoured as one of 14 recipients of the 2007 Aboriginal Achievement Awards. At the end of 2006 he was also honoured, receiving the Order of Canada. In a Vancouver Sun article shortly after that he was described as “one of Vancouver’s best known citizens — and one of its least known Aboriginals.” He grew up unaware of his native heritage, until his sister began researching the family history 20 years ago, stated the article.

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

STOP THE PRESSES! “There was always this rumour in the family, that that’s where our roots were,” Poole was quoted. “In my teenage years, some of my father’s sisters talked about it and dismissed it: you know, ‘there’s this rumour which, of course, is ridiculous.’ So it wasn’t until my sister did the research … That it was confirmed.” An 18th century ancestor of Poole’s came from England in 1776 to work for the Hudson’s Bay Co. in Moose Factory, Ont., on James Bay. That man married a Cree woman. “I think I’m six generations removed from the Cree lady,” Poole explained. “But I have a Métis card, and by definition, in Canada, I’m an aboriginal person. “I’ve always been very proud of this fact — to have Canadian roots that go that far back.” Early in 2007, Poole was also inducted into the Order of the Sash by the Métis Nation British Columbia, a group he’s been involved with for a number of years. “I attended the first meeting of the B. C. Métis Association in Surrey, and that’s got to be 15-20 years ago … I remember sitting around just sort of kibitzing one night, myself and (my good friend Vick Pierce) and a number of his friends, and there was sort of loose talk about sort of a land claim.

“We’re all of us fascinated by the heritage. Do we live any part of it? We don’t live in any sense an aboriginal life. I wouldn’t pretend that, but it’s a fascinating part of our history.” In late February, Poole, a revered provider and leader, was named Pool-Warrior, by elders of the four host First Nations during a closed-door ceremony during which he and three other Olympic officials were honoured for their work in bringing the 2010 Winter Olympics to their traditional territories.

The naming ceremony was chosen in part because of the remarkable effect the Olympics has had on the four nations, said Tewannee Joseph, executive director of the Four Host First Nations Secretariat, in a Vancouver Sun article. “These are four people (Poole, Jacque Rogge, president of the International Olympic Committee (named Raven), Rene Fasel, head of the Vancouver Coordination Commission (named Winter), and John Furlong, chief executive officer of VANOC( named Beaver)) who have been embracing of our culture and we wanted to recognize the work that they do not just Jack Poole receives Sash from MNBC President Bruce Dumont for the four host first nations, but overall,” he said.

“And I said to Vick, ‘Well if you’re successful with the land claim, what do I get?’ And he looked at me and said, ‘If you’re lucky, you get to keep what you’ve got.’ “Vick was half Cree, so he was Métis, too. He was the person I used to talk to a lot about our background.” “Poole’s one 18th century ancestor is a slim genetic link,” the Sun article stated. “He and his siblings would be 1/64th Cree, and his own children, 1/128th. Poole admitted his family is intrigued by its past.

Born in Mortlach, Saskatchewan, Poole has always enjoyed sports. He played hockey and basketball, curled and wrestled in his younger days, becoming the University of Saskatchewan’s heavyweight wrestling champion. He also skipped B.C.’s Hollyburn curling team to the southern provincial finals. Now he’s an avid, accomplished golfer. Poole is married to Darlene and they have five children, eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, according to his biography on the VANOC website.

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

Message from President Bruce Dumont Tannshi Kiya’wow Apeetha’kosianuk

Hello all Métis/Michif

n behalf of the Métis Nation BC Board of Directors and Staff I extend warm wishes for a joyfilled Holiday Season! Métis Nation BC has had a year filled with much growth, change, success and celebration. We are looking towards the New Year with great anticipation as we continue to “Build our Legacy”. I congratulate all of our Chartered Communities, their Leadership, Board members and thank all of the hard working people who volunteer tirelessly for the betterment of the Métis Nation. Our communities have been successful in delivering programs and services that range from youth projects to health promotion programming while planning and holding events that celebrate our Métis culture and create a broader awareness of who we are as a Nation. Some of these events this past year have included participation in the Tribal Journey 2008 canoe journey, outdoor camps, walking groups tracking their steps to Greece and back, or to Batoche. These programs have provided an opportunity for our communities to create solutions and address the identified needs that exist for Métis people in our province. The following pages contain many stories of the shared achievements that have taken place within the Métis Nation BC Ministries. Some highlights of our accomplishments are the Métis Skills and Employment Centre programs and classes, which include the Industry Trade Authority designated Carpentry Level 1 Training Facility and the Essential Skills programs delivered in partnership with CP Rail, CN Rail and BC Ferries. These 8

training opportunities have assisted many Métis and other Aboriginal people in gaining meaningful employment. The MNBC Ministry of Education, in collaboration with Invest in Kids, the provincial Ministry of Education, and the Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation is a part of the Imagination Library initiative which will see Métis citizens through the ages of 0 – 5 receive a new book each

regional ballot-box elections. The positions included the Provincial President, and Vice-President, 7 Regional Directors, and the Women’s and Youth’s Chairperson, as well the Regional Representatives for the Métis Women of BC and the BC United Métis Youth Circle. I am very proud and honoured to be elected as your provincial President, and to be provided with a continued mandate for the next four years. The newly elected Board Directors will serve their constituents with confidence to improve the lives of all Métis in BC. I personally thank and extend my gratitude to our provincial, federal and corporate partners. Métis Nation BC values our relationships and looks forward to another year of working together to enhance the lives of Métis people in the province of BC.

month. The Ministry of Elders has grown and secured funding for this fiscal year and next to build a stronger relationship with Métis Elders from around our province, while preserving and strengthening our culture, heritage and language. The MNBC continues to support the Métis Veterans of BC. Citizenship growth through the Central Registry, which is my responsibility as a Minister, has had an exceptional increase in applications and a decrease in processing time, working with minimum staff and resources. I compliment all of our departments and their staff for dedication and job performances throughout this past year. The 2008 Métis Nation BC Provincial Election continued to strengthen our selfgovernance, as all 25 elected positions were selected through provincial or

The changes and growth that have occurred this year at Métis Nation BC have provided many opportunities for the staff at our organization and the volunteers in our communities to showcase their extraordinary talents. A special thanks to each of you. Take the time this Holiday Season to relax and enjoy Christmas with your family and friends. This Holiday Season is a special time of year to be thankful for all that we have, and remember all of our loved ones that are with us in spirit. Manitou okesi ’kam from my family to yours! Have a safe and happy holiday! I look forward to seeing and working with many of you in the New Year. Marsay, Thank you, Ki’nass kou’mitinow. Wishing you prosperity for 2009. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. President Bruce R Dumont

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

Message from Vice-President Dave Hodgson Christmas Wishes

hristmas is time to reflect on family, friends, co-workers & accomplishments made throughout the year. 2008 has been a busy year full of accomplishments & successes for the Métis Citizens of B.C. The dedication and sacrifices from the Staff, Board of Directors, Volunteers, Family and Friends has taken us to our great accomplishments this year. I would like to extend my gratitude to each and every one of you for all that you have done and continue to do throughout the year.

We spend a great deal of time with each other as Staff, Board of Directors Volunteers and away from our families. This generates the opportunity to get to know each other & nurture the good friendships previously built. It is wonderful to have the benefit of such a large extended family however it is very important to remember and find the time to spend with our true families, as they are in the end the ones that show us the support and love that allows us to continue in our pursuit of Building our Nation to greater heights.

To me Christmas means: Spending time with family, relaxing, visiting with friends and of course the wonderful Christmas meal put on by my wife Dillys. I look forward to working in success with you in 2009. Best Wishes & Happy Holidays to All of You. Vice-President, Dave Hodgson

A SPRING ELECTION FOR MÉTIS WOMEN AND YOUTH

Season’s Greetings!

Watch in the New Year for the official Métis Nation BC election notification to fill the current offices for which there were no candidates nominated in the 2008 Métis Nation BC general election. Those positions are; •

Management Advisors Helping Organizations Succeed

•

Don Caverley & Dr. Natasha Caverley 8845 Haro Park Terrace North Saanich, B.C. V8L-3Z3 Phone or Fax: 250.656.1076 Email: info@turtleislandconsulting.ca Website: www.turtleislandconsulting.ca

•

BC United Métis Youth Circle, Northwest Regional Youth Representative Métis Women of BC, Vancouver Island Regional Women’s Representative Métis Women of BC, Kootenay Regional Women’s Representative Métis Women of BC, Northeast Regional Women’s Representative

A reminder that nomination packages must include: • Criminal Record Check • Minimum of five (5) signatures of eligible electors

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

Métis Nation Governing Assembly May 2009

Métis Nation Governing Assembly (MNGA) Official Date Notification, Representation and Resolution Notification Date Notification registered with the central registry, lined in point 3 must be submitted he or she should represent the com- to the MNGA Clerk no later than Métis Nation British Columbia munity at the upcoming MNGA. If Thursday, January 8th, 2009. (MNBC) Board of Directors is offi- for whatever reason, the Vice-Presi- Resolutions cially announcing that the Métis Na- dent is sent in his/her place, then the tion Governing Assembly (MNGA) Vice-President must also have been Proposed resolutions submitted by will be convened for January 23rd- registered with the central registry. Métis Chartered Community leaders 25th, 2009 in Richmond, BC. The (2) Where the President of the or Métis citizens for inclusion in the MNGA will be held at the 3500 Métis Chartered Community has MNGA package must be submitted Cessna Drive Richmond BC not been registered with the cen- to the MNGA Clerk by Wednesday, Delta Vancouver Airport (Ballroom tral registry but the Vice-President December 17th, 2008 and no later West). has been so registered, then, by the than 5:00 PM PST. MNBC will asA draft agenda will be provided on terms of the Métis Nation Governing semble a MNGA information packthe MNBC website. Assembly Act, the Vice-President age, that includes proposed resolushould be assigned the responsibil- tions, and will immediately courier Representation: ity of representing the Métis Char- to support MNGA member prepatered Community at the upcoming ration for discussions. Please be reminded that current leg- MNGA. islation of the Métis Nation Govern- (3) Where neither the President Please be advised that any proposed ing Assembly Act specifies members nor Vice-President of the Métis resolutions not received by Decemof the MNGA must be registered Chartered Community have been ber 17th, 2008 will not be included with the Métis Nation British Co- registered with the central registry by in the Order of the Day for the Janulumbia central registry. This means the time of the MNGA, the commu- ary 23rd-25th, 2009 MNGA. that in order to participate and nity executive or board of directors vote at the MNGA, members of the are encouraged to meet and appoint Travel Arrangements MNBC Board of Directors and all a member of the Métis community MNBC staff will be contacting the Presidents or Vice Presidents of the who is already registered with the respective MNGA members to finalMétis Chartered Communities must central registry as Acting President ize travel arrangements. MNBC will have applied for and be eligible to or Acting Vice President, and this only cover expenses for the MNGA receive their Métis citizenship card person be given the responsibility of members. MNBC staff will begin to contact MNGA members the first with the MNBC central registry. representing the community at the week of December 2008. upcoming MNGA. Please ensure The following steps should be fol- that the member is provided a let- For any clarification please feel free lowed to ensure that persons register, signed by the Métis community to contact myself @ tered with the central registry repre- executive or board of directors, duly 1-800-940-1150. sent Métis Chartered Communities authorizing him or her to act on beLyle Oliver at the upcoming MNGA. half of the Métis Chartered commuMNGA Clerk (1) If the President of the Métis nity at the January MNGA. Executive Director Chartered Community is already *Letters of any authorization out10

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

Métis Nation BC President Appoints His Ministers

“W

e all have an important role to play, and will continue working towards closing the gaps that exist between Métis people and nonaboriginal British Columbians,” said Métis Nation British Columbia President Bruce Dumont, while expressing confidence in the abilities of newly appointed ministers “to move the Nation forward”. He and Vice President Dave Hodgson formally announced the MNBC ministerial appointments during an orientation session at Harrison Hot Springs on Oct. 24. Dumont will look after the Ministry of Registry and Ministry of Health. Hodgson will look after the Ministry of Employment and Training and Ministry of Education. Other appointments included: Lissa Smith - Ministry of Veterans Henry Hall - Ministry of Housing Bob Trumbley - Ministry of Natural Resources Gerry Legare - Ministry of Children and Family Services Annette Maurice - Ministry of Justice Rene Therrien - Ministry of Culture, Heritage and Language Dan Pope - Ministry of Economic Development Rose Bortolon - Ministry of Women and Elders Stephanie Albiston - Ministry of Youth and Ministry of Sport. Following this announcement over 53 senior officials and staff had an intense three day orientation to plan the balance of the 5 year plan. Please check monthly update on www.mnbc.ca for more information.

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

Lyle Oliver, MNBC Executive Director delivers speech during MNBC retreat.

Quilling the revival of a lost art form Cowichan Valley Métis members were given a rare treat in November – a workshop with renowned quilling expert, Ray McKeown. Report and photos submitted by Dale Letourneau

As he pulled the porcupine quill from his mouth and cut off the sharp, barbed end, Ray McKeown began to tell the story of a young Plains girl who had a prophetic dream about a spider woman who wove a web of quills. The girl shared her dream with the elders of her community, and the unique North American art of quilling was born. Because the vision had appeared to a young girl (and not an adult) it came to pass that only girls and ‘untouched’ women were allowed to participate in this sacred craft. Children, however, were allowed to help in the harvesting of quills.

Not wanting to sacriﬁce the life of the creature who gave his quills so willingly, the children would chase the porcupine into a corner and throw a hide (or blanket) over it. Once the porcupine was trapped – out shot the quills into the hide. The porcupine was then allowed to escape and grow more quills for another day. The hide was carefully gathered up and taken back to camp where the quilling maidens carefully twisted the quills to remove them from the hide.

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

Once the quills had been dyed with natural pigments, they were dried and sorted for various projects such as the decoration of knife scabbards, rifle cases and ceremonial clothing. To make the quills tender enough to work with, the girls would put them into their mouths (with barbed end intact) and shuffle them around carefully until they were softened. Pulling a needle made from the bone of a bird with thread pulled from the sinews of past dinners, the maidens would create decorative works of art on the functional clothing and accessories of their family members. When a girl had successfully created her first important piece, she was bound by tradition to give it away. This was done so that she did not become too proud of her work and so that she would learn to become a giver, not a keeper. Quilling was practiced by Aboriginal People from Alaska to New Mexico,

but the art reached it’s zenith on the Central Plains. As an art form, it was practiced from the early 1500s until the 1820s when glass beads, steel needles and spun thread were introduced by Eurpoean traders. The history lesson provided by Ray McKeown and the skill transfer enjoyed by workshop participants will be appreciated for years to come. To round out an already full day, workshop participants fetted Ray at the local Chinese smorgasbord where the group was joined by the Cowichan Valley Métis crew who participated in the Cowichan 2008 Tribal Journeys canoe voyage. The day of traditional learning and celebration ended on the lanes of the local bowling alley. The group photo below shows those who made it through to the end of a long but exhilarating day. Photos to the left of the group are of work created by Ray McKeown.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION Ray McKeown is one of a handful of people in North America known for their quill working. Ray is also proficient in moose hair tufting, leatherwork, beading and Navajo sand painting. Ray provides instruction to cultural groups and school children (grades 4 to 12). He can be contacted at (604) 687-8209.

Tanya Davoren, MNBC Director of Health

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

FINDING LOST RELATIONS

Many Métis people are currently trying to locate members of their family units.   There are several reasons we may be searching for these people: perhaps to complete a genealogical family line, or to establish or disallow the presence the myriad of illnesses and disabilities which are known to be genetically predisposed.   Whatever your reason may be perhaps Kiwetin Publishing can help. We will compile and list this information in our magazine which is distributed country wide.  Your name will not be released nor printed without your permission.   Please send the name, age, gender, and last known whereabouts of your party of interest to: metismending@shaw.ca addressed to:  Lost Relations.   For the sake of privacy, all replies will also be sent to this email address and forwarded to you upon receipt of your consent.

APPLY TODAY... FOR CARPENTRY APPRENTICESHIP LEVEL 1 CLASS The Métis Skills Employment Centre will be running a Level 1 course January 5th 2008. If you would like to register in this or one of our upcoming courses you should contact your Regional Employment and Training Program Coordinator today. The process for potential carpentry apprentice students requires several steps including two assessment tests and funding processing at the regional level, as well as registration at

the Centre as an indentured apprentice. All students will be required to complete an essential skills assessment as the MNBC actively utilizes essential skills to assist clients in their employment training. For more information you can find your regional office at www.mnbc.ca on the employment and training page or contact the Centre at msec@mnbc.ca or call 1-888-850-0832

MSEC 16

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

New Applicants & Existing Métis Nation BC Citizens

Season’s Greetings! “Wishing you a safe and happy 2008 Holiday Season” Hon. Gerry St. Germain, P.C. Senator, British Columbia

It is your responsibility to keep your address and telephone contact information current. Please contact your Regional Registry Clerk with any changes as they occur: VANCOUVER ISLAND ~ Leona Mason

(250) 720-3400 reg1registrar@mnbc.ca

LOWER MAINLAND ~ Colin Sanderson

(604) 678-6911 provregclerk@mnbc.ca

THOMPSON/OKANAGAN ~ Wendy Chernivchan

(250) 320-7055 reg3registrar@mnbc.ca

KOOTENAY ~ Carmelle Laroche

(250) 417-3305 reg4registrar@mnbc.ca

NORTH CENTRAL ~ Audrey Prevost

(250) 961-1181 reg5registrar@mnbc.ca

NORTH WEST & NORTH EAST ~ Leanne Ballinger

(250) 615-9700 reg6registrar@mnbc.ca

5IBOL ZPV )BQQZ )PMJEBZT

Joe Gereluk, Attorney Legal Counsel for MNBC

From MNBC Citizenship Registry Staff

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

Over the next three issues we will highlight Metis Veterans. If you are a Veteran or know someone who is a Veteran please send your story to Whispering Winds (kiwetin@shaw.ca) by February 1st, 2009. For information on how to send photos please see page 3 Winter 2008/2009

PERSONAL STORIES OF Métis VETERANS

MNBC • Veterans Committee

(Taken from Métis Veteran’s Messenger/Gail Parenteau)

Stan Dotchain

WW II Veteran. In his own words This is the story of a Métis Army Veteran from Winnipeg. I was born in Winnipeg July 18th 1918. I am Stanley J Dotchain my mother is Julia Branconnier and my father is William Dotchain. My mother is Métis and my father is English. I married Alexandrina M Lafond on November 18th 1939 in St Charles Manitoba. I volunteered for the Army and enlisted May 20th 1943 at MD 10 Winnipeg. I took my basic training at Fort Garry and Shilo. I then went to Woodstock and London Ontario for Driver Meck Course on Bren Gun Carriers, back to Shilo and then overseas. Drina was home with Eric and Diana. I was making one dollar and ﬁfty cents per day and Drina was getting around seventy-ﬁve dollars per month for her and the two children. It took seven days to cross the Atlantic to Greenock Scotland we were taken to Barnsley

in Yorkshire. I was put on draft to go to Italy, at the last moment it was cancelled. My mail was sent to Italy for two months. Next was D Day June 6th 1944, I made it to shore and crawled under a tank that was there and a buddy that I went to school with was under there so we had a short talk as we had to move on. Next was the bombing of Caan, that day we did not see much of the sun for the dust caused by the bombing. We moved on past the airport. Next was the Falaise Pocket where I was wounded. The Germans were in the Pocket and the American Air Force came and bombed we were dug in they say I was blown up about 40 feet. I woke up in the Field hosp at Bayou. 2 weeks later Drina got a telegram that I was missing in action. I was then categorized and did not have to return to the front line. I transferred to Signal Corp at Ghent, as they needed drivers. On my ﬁrst visit to the pay master he wanted a driver so I drove him all over and stayed with him till the war ended. His name is Jock Simpson; he was a First World War Vet. I drove a truck with the rations and half soldiers on a tour to Berlin in Dec 1945 it was below zero we stayed in the British Sector. I went to Arnham as they formed a unit called #D 1 C A E S U 1st Canadian Army Service Unit. We had convoys of truck taking all Army surpluses to be shipped back to Canada from Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

Antwerp. We built a compound with a electrical fence for all Army vehicles. We went to England to come home. I went to the hospital with Jaundice so had to wait until April 1946. I was discharged June 27th 1946 at Winnipeg. I would like to hear from anybody that was in the 1 C A E S U and has a plaque with all the names of all the units that were there the plaque is 2 and half inches by 1 and three quarters. S J Dotchain 7191 Taft Drive Prince George BC V2K 2R3 phone 250 962 7856.

Alan Edkins

Senator Region 1 and Chairman MNBC Senate; also a veteran, birth name Allard, served in the Regular forces in the Royal Canadian Corps of Signals as a TCET Technician, basic training with the 1st Battalion PPCLI in Greisbach barracks Edmonton, started specialized training with the 2nd Battalion PPCLI when emergency posted to Kingston Ontario, No 11 Personnel Depot

Charles Robert “Smokey” Trumbley December 30, 1922 ~ September 23, 2008

Charles Robert “Smokey” Trumbley, born December 30th 1922 in Findlater Saskatchewan, served with the South Saskatchewan Regiment in the 1930’s and early 40’s. Smokey was a very proud man who was honorably released at the rank of Sergeant. His son Charles Robert “Bob Trumbley and granddaughter Tanya Davoren followed his footsteps by serving as Armored

Soldiers with the British Columbia Dragoons in the 1960’s and 1990’s. Smokey was a Métis Veteran that proudly took part in Métis ceremonies and at Remembrance Day laid wreaths each year in honor of fallen soldiers. This past fall, our beloved father and grandfather passed away Sept 23, 2008 and we will be laying a wreath in his honor this year.

Remembrance Day Services

1. Richard Hovan, Smokey and Bob Trumbley Lay wreath in Vernon, 2007. 2. Bruce Dumont, President of MNBC, Barbara Hulme Maj (ret), Métis Veterans Women’s Rep and Stanley Hulme Maj (ret) local family researcher. Photo by Stan Hulme. 3. WW 2 WAC Veteran Irene Flett wrapped up in a Hudson Bay Blanket- It was cold and rainy that morning. She stuck it out and was one of 4 Métis Veterans who laid wreaths on behalf of the Métis Veterans of Canada on Remembrance Day on Tuesday morning for the Nova Métis Heritage Association. Photo by Ken Fisher. 4. Northwest Region, Tri-River Métis Elder Howie Aikins at our Remembrance Day Service in Smithers. 5. MNBC Regional Director & Métis Veteran Bob Trumbley along with MNBC Region 3 Veteran Representative, Ernest Parenteau participated in the Remembrance Day Ceremonies at the Vernon, BC Multiplex where they placed a wreath on behalf of the MNBC Veterans Committee in recognition of Métis Veterans.

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

MNBC • Veterans Committee

Jehrico Beach detach posted to Nanaimo bunker, Vernon, Chilliwack, Lynne Valley and other short term installation duties. Father Noel Allard was in the 1st Battalion PPCLI in WW 2, three (3) Allard Uncles served in the Regina Riﬂes and Winnipeg Riﬂes, oldest half brother Armand was in the Canadian Armoured Corp retiring as a WO 2, youngest half brother Claude served in the Artillery. Grandfather was in the CEF during WW 1; Great-grandfather was a militia volunteer in Winnipeg. Mother’s side of the family, maternal Grandfather was in the 9th Battalion Royal Fusiliers in WW1, gassed and invalided home blind in 1917, maternal Great-grandfather served with the 3rd Dragoon Guards and maternal Great-great-grandfather served with the 28th Regiment of Foot the Gloucestershire Regiment. Maternal Uncles were, one in the RAF and the other was in the Royal Artillery.

Métis Nation Ontario Signs Historic Framework Agreement

Photo Credit: Scott Carpenter, Métis Nation of Ontario

mproving the well-being of Métis children, families and communities while working to protect and promote the distinct culture, identity and heritage of Métis people is the purpose of an historic agreement between the Ontario government and Métis Nation Ontario (MNO). The framework agreement was signed Nov. 17 by Aboriginal Affairs Minister Brad Duguid and MNO President Gary Lipinski and MNO Chair France Picotte. “This framework agreement, signed on the heels of Louis Riel Day (marked by the Ontario government on Nov. 16th) sets the course for a new, collaborative relationship between the Ontario government and the Métis Nation of Ontario,” said a news release from Duguid’s office.

“The Ontario government is committed to strengthening our relationship with Métis people in Ontario,” said Duguid. “Through the capacity support committed to in the framework agreement, the Ontario government can better engage Métis communities in order to work with them to address mutual priorities.” Lipinski said, “This agreement signals a new chapter in the Métis Nation’s relationship with the Ontario government. It acknowledges the unique history, identity, and rights of Métis communities in Ontario and sets out a collaborative process to recognize and respect those rights. The new partnership will also enhance the Métis Nation’s ability to assist its citizens and communities through the development of a strategic business plan focussed on strengthening governance structures, institutions and accountability, while also identifying economic opportunities to move towards selfsufficiency.”

The agreement sets out specific objectives to bring about the stated purpose of “facilitating the The agreement’s preamble recognition and advancement of states Ontario “recognizes and Métis people in Ontario”. respects the unique history, The first objective, to strengthen identity, customs, practices, traMNO, states the government ditions and rights of Métis comMNO President Gary Lipinski and and MNO agree to “negotiate munities in the province” and Ontario Aboriginal Affair Minister Brad Duguid a mutually agreeable multi-year the government “is committed to arrangement to provide core operational funding to recognizing the Métis and enhancing their survival as MNO”. distinctive communities”. The second objective focuses on recognizing and preserving the distinctive history, identity and culture of the Métis people and their contributions to Ontario. The third is to increase the economic opportunities for Métis people and enhance the individual and community well-being of Métis. And the final objective deals with “recognition of Métis rights in Ontario, as a part of the reconciliation process”. Each objective is followed with strategies and actions to accomplish the goals. 20

Métis Nation Ontario is also recognized by the government as the representative of “its citizens through its structures and institutions including the Provisional Council of the MNO, MNO Chartered Community Councils and the MNO Annual General Assembly. The document further states “Ontario and the MNO want to work together to build upon their existing bilateral process, strengthen the relationship between Ontario and the MNO’s citizens, enhance the capacity of the MNO, recognize the distinct identity and culture of the Métis people, and improve the quality of life of Métis

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

children, families and communities in the province.” The historic agreement was signed during the Métis Nation of Ontario’s special President’s Meeting and Annual General Assembly which brought over 250 Métis leaders and citizens from throughout Ontario together for three days of meetings, ceremonies and cultural events, Nov. 17-19. At the conclusion of the meetings, Lipinski said, “Over the last three days, we have made history and charted a new course for the Métis Nation in this province. A new course that is based on mutual recognition and respect with the Ontario government; a more inclusive MNO that better engages and listens to its citizens and communities; and, a vision of building a stronger and more accountable MNO. Based on this direction, I truly believe we can take the MNO to the next level.”

An historic moment for MNO

io, which represents approximately 30 per cent of the total Aboriginal population of the province, according to a news release from Duguid’s office. The Métis Nation of Ontario employs over 150 staff across the province delivering essential health, training and employment services to Métis children, families Highlights from the meeting included: and communities. The Métis Nation of Ontario maintains a centralized registry of Métis citizens recognized • A flag raising event at Toronto City Hall and a com- by the Métis Nation of Ontario who are represented at memoration ceremony at Queen’s Park honouring Lou- local, regional and provincial levels through Chartered is Riel and his contributions to the Métis Nation and the Community Councils and the Provisional Council of Canadian federation; the Métis Nation of Ontario. • The official swearing-in of the Provisional Council of the Métis Nation of Ontario by the Hon. Todd Ducharme, Justice of the Ontario Superior Court as well as a keynote speech by Michael Ignatieff – M.P., Liberal leadership candidate and distinguished author;

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• The adoption of an Interim Statement of Principles on Métis Consultation and Accommodation as well as a General Framework for Métis Consultation and Accommodation to guide the MNO’s work with governments and industry on the Crown’s duty to consult and accommodate Métis rights in the province; • A workshop on the development of a MNO strategic plan and economic development strategy in order to strengthen the MNO’s governance structures, set targets for results and move towards self-sufficiency; and • A decision to develop a MNO flag to be used in future social and cultural events across the province and the Métis Nation. There are approximately 73,000 Métis people in OntarWhispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

Royal Canadian Mounted Police

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(Standing, L to R) Sgt Steve Pebernat (Under Water Recovery team) - Aboriginal Policing Services, CST Mike Jordan (Dog Handler) & Cargo - Chilliwack RCMP, CST Darwin Robbins (TACT) - Tkumlups Rural RCMP, CST Irv David - Tkumlups Rural RCMP, CST Chester Williams - Program Coordinator Aboriginal Policing Services Vancouver , Cpl Dean Gladue (Drug Awareness Coordinator) Kamloops BC, CST Patrick Ellis (ERT) - Tkumlups Rural RCMP, CPL Garry Hanson - Tkumlups Rural RCMP, (Seated L to R) CPL Dee, Stewart -Aboriginal Recruiting Vancouver, Sgt Patty Cook - South East District Aboriginal Policing, CST Rose Grant - Merritt Rural; all took part in the RCMP Career Fair in Kamloops, B.C. early November.

Nov. 20, 2000 and now travels throughout B.C. assisting and encouraging Aboriginal people to join the RCMP “so they can make a difference in our communities”. She echoed another Aboriginal member, “I’m living the Police. dream”. Cpl. Dee Stewart, aboriginal recruiting officer for Brit“Each and every day is something new in this line of ish Columbia, said, “Being Aboriginal and being able to work,” said Cst. Darwin Robbins with the Tkumlups Rural help Aboriginal people to take the first step into joining the First Nations Policing Section. From Esket, B.C., he also RCMP is truly a dream job for me. I have had a great career graduated from depot in 2000. in the RCMP. There are more than 154 careers in the RCMP Asked about the training regimen, he said, it was fine. so there is something for everyone. “Most everyone there is willing to help each other get “You can be a dog handler or be part of the Drug Section through training. You gather a lot of new friends that you unit or Identification Section, Recruiting Unit or work in keep for life.” the Aboriginal Policing Section. The Aboriginal Policing A 13 year veteran, (ERT) - Tkumlups Rural RCMP, PatSection is where I wanted to be because I wanted to work rick Elllis wants to tell Aboriginal youth “the work we do is within the Aboriginal community. I wanted to make a differimportant to native people and to this country. It is a chance ence and I feel that is where my future career in the RCMP to impact lives in a positive way, that will be a part of the lies.” day-to-day solutions of living in safe healthy communities. Stewart graduated from the training depot in Regina on 22 Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009 here’s an almost unimaginable variety of career opportunities for aboriginal people with Canada’s premier police force, the Royal Canadian Mounted

²6JGTG CTG OQTG VJCP ECTGGTU KP VJG 4%/2 UQ VJGTG KU UQOGVJKPI HQT GXGT[QPG ³ Originally from Elsa, Yukon, near Mayo, he graduated from depot in 1995 and is stationed in Kamloops Rural First Nations Policing Unit. Policing with the RCMP “is also a chance to add adventure to your lives. As peace ofﬁcers we will do and see things that most people will never see in their lifetimes.” When he took his training in depot in Regina, he said he felt there were times when other members were judgemental of native members and native clients. “But for the vast majority of members, and the fact that there are so many of us doing the job, I don’t feel it is an issue. I believe that as long as you work hard and you display strong integrity there is no issue with being native.”

Stewart said she found the training hard. “Whether I was in an all Aboriginal troop would not have made a difference to me. My brother and I always wanted to be in the RCMP and I knew we would both reach that goal and we did.” She said, “The RCMP has been a great environment for me to work in. I have had great support throughout my career and working in Aboriginal communities has brought me great pride and satisfaction. “Many times I hear how our Aboriginal communities would like to have Aboriginal members police them. That is where I come into play (as the aboriginal recruiter for B.C.). Stewart, originally from the Bonaparte Reserve in Cache Creek, is currently posted to the Aboriginal Policing Services - Recruiting Section at Vancouver headquarters. Royce Heavenﬁre (left) explores his career options. CST Rose Grant (below left) and CST Chester Williams (below right).

T e, ;

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

A Career Nowhere Near Ordinary.

Join the RCMP RCMP Information Sessions To find out where and when the next information session will be found on the RCMP website: www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca then click on Careers/Recruiting and choose your area. All information sessions will be open and preregistration is not required. The RCMP Police Aptitude Test (RPAT) will be announced at the information session. RPAT dates will be held 1-2 months following each information session. In order to write the RPAT, candidates must attend an information session and pre-register for the exam.

For more information, please contact Aboriginal Recruiting Cst. Dee Stewart (604) 264-2712

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police offers a challenging and exciting career to those interested in making a difference in their communities and their country. We are looking for people from all walks of life to join Canada’s national police service. In fact, there has never been a better time to apply! Due to retirements and increasing demands for police officers across the country, the RCMP plans to train up to 2,000 cadets each year. And we are looking to actively recruit potential employees and police officers from Aboriginal communities. Career opportunities include: General Duty Aboriginal Policing Marine Services Crime Prevention Federal Policing Customs& Excise Protective Policing Economic Crime Drug Investigation Foreign Missions Airport Security Forensic Services Border Integrity Traffic Services Crime Analysis Explosive Disposal Emergency Response Team VIP / Diplomatic Protection

There are numerous job possibilities for regular, civilian or public service members. We also offer job security and an attractive pay and benefits package. Regular Member Salary: At engagement: $44,513 After 6 months: $57,835 12 months: $62,751 24 months: $67,667 3 years: $72,125

Basic Requirements: x Be a Canadian citizen x Be of good character x Be proficient in either official language (English or French) x Have a Canadian secondary school diploma or equivalent x Have a valid unrestricted Canadian driver’s licence x Be at least 19 years of age at engagement x Meet physical / medical requirements x Be willing to relocate anywhere in Canada Recruiting process takes between 812 months. The process includes: Information Session Written Test - RCMP Police Aptitude Test (RPAT) Physical Test – Physical Ability Requirement Evaluation (PARE) Interviews – Suitability Interview Good Character Verification – Background check & Preemployment polygraph Medical/Dental/Psychological Enrollment as a Cadet - 24 week training at Depot in Regina.

www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca 24

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

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It’s about Performance

MNBC

Education and Culture

he MNBC Director of Education and Culture has been working with post secondary institutions in the Lower Mainland to develop student support services for Métis students. It is through this partnership that a Métis, First Nation and Inuit Center for Excellence has been established and two Learning Facilitators will be hired to support Métis students. Director of Employment and Training, Malonie Langthorne assisted in developing an essential skills proposal with the post secondary institutions that will increase access for all Aboriginal students. The University of Victoria hosted “Aboriginal Awareness Week” in September and one of the days was dedicated to Métis. The MNBC Director of Education and Culture and Métis dance instructor, Bev Lambert provided bannock and pemmican for over fifty people enjoying the celebration. Bev Lambert taught several students and staff “Drops of Brandy”, and George and Terry Goulet shared a presentation on their new book, “The Métis in British Columbia: From Fur Trade Outposts to Colony”. The celebration was part of the relationship that MNBC has with the university. The Goulets’ new book will be distributed to school districts in the coming weeks and will be used as a resource for secondary students. Director of Education, Colleen Hodgson is working with the provincial Ministry of

Education to support curriculum development for the book. MNBC has established an agreement with the provincial Ministry of Education and the Imagination Library. Beginning in October Métis citizens with children aged zero to five years of age will be receiving information about the Imagination Library and an opportunity to register their children. Once registered, each child will receive one book per month until they are five years of age. MNBC has been developing an interactive cultural DVD series in collaboration with the University of British Columbia Okanagan and Métis communities. The DVD series will be launched in April 2009 and Dr. Mike Evans shared a presentation at the MNBC Annual General meeting in September that provided insight into the many components of the DVD. The DVD series will be integrated into all school districts in British Columbia. Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation, Michael de Jong has made a commitment to support a BC150 Project that MNBC developed. The project involves several initiatives including a re-enactment of the Sinclair expedition. The project will unfold over the remainder of 2008 and celebrate the significant contributions that Métis people have made in the development of British Columbia.

he Métis Employment and Training Staff from across BC would like to wish all of our communities, students, partners and families a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year 2009! We look forward to continued success and to building a healthy, strong and skilled workforce. From our family to yours Seasons Greetings 26

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Student Successes Even though I knew absolutely nothing regarding the railway system, I, at the very last possible minute, decided to jump in with both feet. The CN Rail ‘Conductor’ preemployment program gave me skills that were speciﬁc to CN Rail and were needed to obtain an interview with CN Rail. Upon completing the CN Rail recruitment process combined with tons of patience…lo and behold, I have now obtained a career. Had I not chosen to jump in with both feet I would have still been in a limbo mode wondering what I was going to do for the rest of my life. Many thanks need to go the individuals who have given me support, encouragement, fun and laughter throughout the whole process. These individuals namely are: Darcie Petuh, Marlin Ratch & Malonie Langthorne from MNBC. Dian Patterson, Donna Barron, Roxane Alec, Cori Thunderchild and our faithful instructor, Grant Alphonse from Essential Skills for Aboriginal Futures, Francesca Debastiani of Service Canada, Kyle, our signal instructor and of course, Stephanie & Fran from CN Rail and all the powers that be, behind the scenes.

Kim Patten Career Choice: CN Rail “Conductor” ESAF, MNBC/ MHRDA, ACCESS I have had all kinds of jobs over the years but never really had a career, let alone anything that closely resembled the railway system. I have always been the kind of person to jump at opportunities when they arise and this was no different.

This team of individuals made an amazing job of presenting the program and ensuring there were successes such as mine and for that, I give them my wholehearted thank you and appreciation as well as a lifelong commitment.

Troy Labby Career Choice: Heavy Equipment Operator Northern Lights College, Dawson Creek Thanks a lot for funding me to take the Heavy Duty Equipment Operators course at Northern Lights College in Dawson Creek. I am looking forward to my new career as an operator.

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Student Successes Brendan Katernick Career Choice: PC Support Specialist Diploma Academy of Learning – Surrey, BC Brendan has graduated from the PC Support Specialist Program at the Academy of Learning and is now employed as a Technical Support Representative for Top Producer Inc. He is very grateful for the support and assistance from the Metis Nation BC. “Without their help I wouldn’t have been able to take the course and start my career.”

Tammy Annonson Career Choice: Royal Canadian Mounted Police RCMP Training Academy, Regina, Saskatchewan Tammy graduated from the Simon Fraser University in May 2007 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree, majoring in Criminology. She then went on to take RCMP training at the RCMP Training Academy in Regina, Saskatchewan in January 2008. Now a member of the Burnaby RCMP Detachment, Tammy is very grateful to MNBC for making it possible. She would eventually like to get involved with the RCMP Dive team and Investigative units.

Norman Mallette Career Choice: Chainsaw Operator Peace Liard Training & Alpha Safety I would like to express my gratitude to the Métis Nation British Columbia, Fort St John and MNBC’s Carol Paynter for their support and sponsorship of the Enform Level 1 Chainsaw Basic three day course and my H2S & TDG tickets. I was successful in achieving Work Safe BC (WBC) certiﬁcation. I am now able to pursue employment opportunities in my chosen ﬁeld, the gas and oil industry!

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Student Successes Echo Bellerose Career Choice: Bachelor of Social Work Thompson Rivers University I am so grateful for the funding that I was provided through the Métis Nation. For the 4 years that I was in university tuition increased every year. The costs associated with tuition and books are so high. During my studies I took a full course load (5 classes every semester) and was unable to focus on my homework and work at the same time. Because I was funded to go to school I was able to give my time and attention to my school needs. If I wouldn’t have had funding through Métis Nation I would probably still be in school as I would have to take a lighter course load so I could work. I would sincerely like to thank the Métis Nation for their ﬁnancial assistance. Today I have a degree in social work and I am currently employed full time as a social worker with the Ministry of Children and Family Development.

Nicole Ramsay Career Choice: Chartered Accountant Thompson Rivers University The Thompson Okanagan Region Métis Employment and Training Office provided significant support during my four years of university. Their funding allowed me to concentrate on my studies, rather than working, giving me the opportunity to achieve excellence in my courses. I have now completed my Bachelor of Business Administration Degree with a major in accounting from Thompson Rivers University. I am continuing on my path to becoming a Chartered Accountant at the School of Business for CA’s while working at KMPG LLP in Kamloops. I will never forget the opportunities made possible by the Métis office and their services. Thank you very much.

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CP Rail Essential Skills Students Graduate into Careers Ten students

completed the course for Essential Skills for Aboriginal Futures (ESAF) on October 31st and received an excellent treat on Halloween, a good paying career.

The ESAF’s latest employment

partner, CP Rail, stepped up to offer their expertise in their conductor profession. A $60k a year job as a starter career is what the students had a chance at getting and worked they very hard to achieve it.

ESAF employer

partners are never asked for jobs when they enter into partnership with the program, they are asked to support the skill building exercises and offer a chance to interview for the position they identify as an initial entry into their workforce. It is up to the students to build their skill levels up to acceptable standard so that they can train in those new careers.

Jennifer

Stinson, Employment Centre Specialist - Canadian Paciﬁc said, “We were parti-

cularly impressed with the students’ extensive preparation for their interviews.

Each candidate

was well spoken and provided some very strong answers to the behavioral based interview questions posed by CP Rail.

“Enthusiasm

communicated in regards to working for Canadian Paciﬁc as a conductor was infectious” noted Ms. Stinson.

“We understand

that ACCESS / Métis Nation BC had a comprehensive intake program and only selected individuals with a strong ﬁt with the credentials set forth by Canadian Paciﬁc. Ms. Stinson added.

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

“And although we had great

expectations for this group, the students raised the bar even further than we anticipated”.

The students

are now ﬁnalizing their medical tests and once they receive that ﬁnal green signal they will be on their way to their new careers as conductors for CP Rail.

Workplace Essential Skills

enable people at work to do the tasks required by their occupation, give them the basics to learn all other skills (job and life) and assist them to manage and adapt to the changing workplace environment.

They are not the technical skills

required by an occupation but are the enabling skills that are

Workplace Essential Skills are defined as the skills that people use to perform a wide variety of daily life and occupational tasks

necessary in most occupations and that allow people to do their jobs successfully.

In the example of writing,

everyone will need to write on the job whether it is a simple note to co-workers or a lengthy report to administration. In both cases the frequency and degree of complexity will be different for each occupation.

1. Reading Text

reading materials in the form of sentences or paragraphs

2. Document Use

tasks that involve a variety of information displays in which words, numbers, symbols and other visual characteristics (eg. Lines, colors or shapes) are given meaning by their spatial arrangement

3. Numeracy

using numbers and thinking in quantitative terms to complete tasks

4. Writing

writing text and writing in documents, such as ďŹ lling in forms, and non paper-based writing such as typing on a computer

8. Computer Use

using different kinds of computer applications and other related technical tools

9. Continuous Learning

5. Oral Communication

using speech to give and exchange thoughts and information

6. Working with Others

employees working with others to carry out their tasks

7. Thinking Skills

the process of evaluating ideas or information to reach a rational decision

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

works participating in an ongoing process of acquiring skills and knowledge

FOR MORE INFORMATION try http://www.towes.com or h t t p : / / s r v 1 0 8 . s e r v i c e s. g c . c a / english/general/home_e.shtml

YOUTH Biographies

LOWER MAINLAND Laura May Hooper

VANCOUVER ISLAND  Bonnie Lynn Lepine Hello, Bonjour, Tan’si My name is Bonnie Lepine I am the newly elected Youth Representative for Vancouver Island, B.C. I was raised in Victoria from a Suisse/ French/Huron mother and French/Cree father. I am bilingual French and English.  I have a Bachelors degree in Education from the University of Alberta and am currently teaching grade seven at L’école Victor-Brodeur in Victoria.  I am also the Aboriginal Coordinator and Athletic Director at this school. I am passionate about education, sports, photography, visual arts, hunting, health and social studies. When not found working, I am usually playing volleyball, badminton, basketball, roller blading, running, coaching and volunteering.  I have an older sister, a brother and a nephew. These are the people that I have learned the most from since we all grew up together living and learning from each other through the years.  This past summer I participated in the Tribal Journeys and was Head Coach for the Juvenile Woman’s Volleyball Team who participated at the North American Indigenous Games (NAIG). I also was Head Volleyball Coach for team BC at the Canadian Francophone Games. While holding the title as Youth Representative I would like to promote cultural activities, helping youth determine a sense a of belonging to whom they are, what are important parts of their culture, and helping them become tomorrow leaders. This is a term that my brother refers to as being: “Enchanted learning from the past to promote a better future, learning cultural integrity. Creating stronger communities and bringing together the Métis Nation as a unified body of homeland we call Canada’. This is a belief that is created from our DNA and cannot be changed as when we attend cultural activities we learn from who we are and from where we belong in our society.   Au plaisir de vous rencontrer,   Bonnie Lynn Lepine

Laura Hooper was the third child born into a Métis family on September 30th, 1982 in Smithers BC. Laura served as a youth representative for the Tri-River Nation while in Smithers and has a strong appreciation for her Northern roots and Métis heritage. She is currently residing in Langley BC where she is a recent member of the Waceya Métis community. Laura is in her second year of a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy Program at Trinity Western University. She is currently interning at MCFD as a Child and Youth Mental Health Clinician and enjoys working with families and people from all walks of life. She values personal cultural experience and connection and has lead been part of teams in China, Romania and Ukraine and the Downtown East doing humanitarian aid work. She has a strong desire for advocacy and instilling hope in others. She also finds it important to have fun and laugh and enjoying activities with family and friends. Almost any outdoor activity is enjoyed in the fellowship of good company. Laura has recently begun connecting with the Lower Mainland Métis community and getting to know the BCUMYC team and is eager to begin connecting and getting involved. She has a passion for building relationships with people and networking. She hopes to continue to bring greater awareness and connection of Métis youth, culture and pride. She is honored to be Métis and believes this position will provide and amazing opportunity to grow and learn and give back to a community that has given her so much.

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

OKANAGAN/THOMPSON

NORTH CENTRAL Laurie Brown

David Carlton David Carlton is 18 years of age, and currently attends the University of British Columbia Okanagan; he is proud to call Penticton home. He has attempted to garner as much Métis cultural knowledge as possible, from those willing to share. David believes that the youth represent a spark of hope for the future, a hope that our heritage may continue to grow stronger with each passing year. Once that spark ignites, we must take hold of the flame.

I am a student at Thompson Rivers University I am taking community support worker. I enjoy working with people, and look forward to be working with the Métis Youth in our region. In the past I have been the Williams Lake Miss Congeniality for 2002-2003, this was a great experience for me. My passion is for horses; I have 2 of my own. I ride with a drill team and I have been going to rodeos all my life. I also have been active with the racetrack for many years. I am the pit boss, which means I line up the cars into their classes that they run in.

Kischee tey mo’yawn aen li Michif wi’yawn. KOOTENAYS Dallas Favel My name is Dallas Favel. I’m fifteen years old and BC Métis youth representative for region four. I volunteered at a summer camp called Blue Lake as a junior councilor this past summer and found it to be a lot of fun. I went to Batoche in 2006 and found out a lot about the Métis nations origin. I also volunteer at the local pool as a junior lifeguard. I plan to become an author or director when I get older, failing that, I’ll settle for being a superhero. I have spent most of my life in Cranbrook, but have lived in Nelson, and Kamloops as well. So far, Nelson is the best. I have relatives there with water front property. I go there quite often in the summer mostly. My favorite thing to do is entertain people. Any way possible, seriously, to me there is no “outside the box”. I love to make people smile or laugh. On a more serious note, the thing that most bothers me are drugs. (Of any kind!) My hobbies are writing short stories, poetry and drawing. ~Dallas

My name is Laurie Brown, I am 26 yrs old. I live in Williams Lake. I love it here! I am a country girl.

I am very honored to be serving as the North Central Youth Representative. I look forward to be meeting many new people. I would also like at this time to thank all those who encouraged me to run for this position. Yours truly, Laurie Brown NORTH Jacki Lafleur Hi my name is Jackalinn Germain LaFleur, I was born on June 4, 1990. I’ve been raised in Fort St John, British Columbia and recently graduated in 2008. Since I was 11, I participated in many Métis activities in my community, doing such things like helping in the Métis youth group, volunteering at suppers and taking part in workshops. My family is always involved at the Métis society in FSJ, and the more Métis functions I attend the more I enjoy learning about our culture and hearing stories from our elders.

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

OUTDOOR YOUTH GATHERING LURED YOUTH FROM ONTARIO! This summer British Columbia United Métis Youth Circle held its first Outdoor gathering. One participant traveled from Ontario to attend this camp. Maddy McCallum interviews Guylaine Morin-Cléroux: Interview with Guylaine MorinCléroux, Youth from Métis Nation of Ontario, Outdoor Wellness Gathering Participant How were you able to attend this event? I was able to attend this youth camp thanks to MNBC and funding from The Department of Heritage Canada.  They provided the funding to have me fly from Ottawa to Beautiful BC and there was no additional cost for me. What did you enjoy most about this event? What I enjoyed most about the gathering was the campfires at night because it gave us all a chance to talk about our day and how things were going.  The coordinators and Elders were very in touch with the youth, always asking us how we felt and if we were enjoying ourselves.  I felt like I could say anything around the campfire and it would not matter, I would not be judged or laughed at.  I would be respected and given advise on how to best handle the situation.  I learned that we are all different but all very much the same, even if we all come from different parts of Canada.  I learned to listen and to be in touch with myself and my feelings.  Also I learned more information on Métis history and culture. How do you think opportunities like this contribute to the Métis Nation across Canada? I do believe that this contributes to building a positive relationship between Métis governing bodies.  Although this was not a political gathering and I would not have liked it to be, I was informed of how MNBC operates within their infrastructure.  I really enjoyed meeting with President Bruce Dumont, it was a pleasure to have him there for a few days and be involved in the youth gathering.  I was especially touched when he presented all youth with a sash around the campfire.  Overall what do you think about your experience at the gathering? Overall this was a great youth leadership experience. I enjoyed all the workshops, stories and activities that were done.  I could only dream that this will one day happen in Ontario.  I still look back at the pictures and remember all the laughs and think to myself that was the best experience of my life. Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

Kookum’s Closet To Kookums closet we quietly creep, everyone is asleep on Christmas Eve. In search of goodies, presents, and more, we tip toe quietly as Mooshum snores. We find sashes, and blankets, and treasures, and dust, we’re not finding our presents that our hidden for us. Could it be true that Santa brings gifts with his reindeer and sleigh, just for me and my brother, and my little cousin Greg. When we woke in the morning, oh to our surprise, there were footprints in the snow, and sleigh tracks still in the sky. What a wonderful Christmas, with my family and me. I am so very lucky, and proud to be Metis. By: Malonie Langthorne 35

SPECIAL NOTICES

The MNBC ADHOC Adoption Committee

he MNBC ADHOC Adoption Committee will consider the issue of whether non-Métis adoptees are entitled to claim Métis citizenship status as defined in the MNBC Constitution and Citizenship Act. The committee will also address legislation as it pertains to self-identified Métis being adopted into non-Métis families and the assurance of their cultural heritage rights. The process of this complex issue is critical to our citizens, self-identified Métis families, chartered communities of MNBC and other legislative bodies within MNC. The committee’s recommendations will be presented when the committee believes they have ensured due process to the delivery of their recommendations and can present their outcomes at a convening of a majority of all chartered community representatives. The committee is composed of representatives from the MNBC executive including the president, vice president, secretary, and treasurer plus one person from each of the seven MNBC regions appointed by the respective Regional Governance Councils. There are a total of 11 MNBC ADHOC Adoptions Committee representatives. The MNBC ADHOC Committee regional representatives include:

• Vancouver Island Representative Ken McIvor • Lower Mainland Representative Kim Bayer • Thompson/Okanagan Representative Daniel Pitman • Kootenay Representative Wendy Favel • North Central Representative Lynne Thanos • Northwest Representative Sid Peltier, (Chairperson) • Northeast Representative Kim Bayer The committee was initiated June 22, 2008 and has met twice in camera and twice in recorded teleconferences. Joe Gereluk, corporate legal counsel for MNBC has been very instrumental in providing current information on adoption and aboriginal peoples as well as current provincial adoption legislation. We, as a committee, are requesting all Métis citizens of British Columbia extend their voices to this very important issue of adoption as it will affect our future in terms of citizenship registry and constitutional reform, if necessary. We encourage you to ask yourself “What are your feelings and thoughts of a non-Métis person being considered for adoption into a Métis family?” Please provide any recommendations with your responses to your community president and they will forward them to your regional representative on the adoption committee.

........................................................................................................................ Métis Elders of British Columbia Programming

he Métis Nation British Columbia is pleased to announce that we have begun our first year of a three year Elders Engagement strategy, and that we hosted our first successful meeting in conjunction with the AGM in September in Kelowna, BC. After putting a call out to Chartered Communities, we had a number of elder representatives step forward who were interested in attending the Elders Meeting at the MNBC AGM 2008. We had the opportunity to host a very positive and productive meeting to gather ideas and suggestions about Elders programming, and to get their assistance in preparing for a provincial Elders gathering to be held early in 2009. We wish to thank the following Elders for their participation so far: Stella Johnson, Margaret Sloan, Tim St. Denis, Maxine 36

Lavallee, Joan Holmes, Noel Mineault, Lottie Kozak, Oliver and Yvette Boyer, Marilyn Taylor, Romley Goulet, Arnold Lucier, Blanche Landry, Jim Savard, Richard Hayden, Howie Aikens, April McLean-Collart, Arlene Lylyk, Jean Peerless, and Malcolm Supernault. As a result of our first meeting at the AGM, we have some elder volunteers who are assisting MNBC staff in planning the Elders conference. Please watch the MNBC Website for updates on this project, and an announcement about the event in an upcoming issue of the Whispering Winds. For more information on our Elders program, please contact Victoria Pruden at (250) 208-4937 or email vpruden@mnbc.ca,

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

Métis Nation Women

New Elected Representative

by Shaina McCallum

ansi, Hello! I am the newly elected women’s rep for the North Central Region and my name is Shaina McCallum.

The reason why I choose to run for this position is because I feel strongly about women’s issues and what we can become as women. Please feel free to contact me at any time, as I will be available to assist you. If I do not have the answers to your questions, give me a day or two and I will get back to you! There are important things that I would like to share with you. First about myself — I am a mother of four beautiful children and a wife to an amazing husband, Darcy. We all feel very proud to be who we are, Métis. Darcy and I always knew that we were Métis. We are both from northern Saskatchewan — the Meadow Lake area. When I started getting involved with my culture, I could start feeling the blood flow in my body. I started getting the drive to reach out to other Métis people who feel the same way as I do. I believe in myself and I believe in my Métis family. My children, Mikhayla, Donovan, Felicity and Carissa are involved with jigging. They belong to a group in Prince George called Grandchildren of the North Métis Jiggers.

The group currently has nine dancers and they’re always looking for more children to join. This group meets once a week for about two hours on Monday nights. They have danced at many functions throughout the Prince George area. I am really encouraging more children to join us, as it is promoting our culture and heritage and is also great exercise for the kids. For further information you can contact Joyce Roberts at 250-563-4411 In January, the Métis Women of BC (MWBC) will meet in Prince George. We are planning to have a meet and greet night, possibly January 9 or 10th. We welcome you to come and meet us. I will be doing some travelling throughout my region in December. I would like to have the opportunity to come and visit with you and listen to your stories or some issues that you would like to address. There are a number of ways to contact me. Call 250-6172195, 250-614-0138 or contact the PGMCA office, 250-5612665, and leave a message. From my family to your family, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! All the best in 2009!

Holiday Greetings from the representatives of the Métis Women of British Columbia. We wish the best of the holiday season to all Métis women and your families, and our sincere hope for a positive and healthy New Year to come in 2009! We look forward to meeting as many of you as we can in the coming months as we gather in our respective communities and regions with Métis Women of British Columbia programming. With warm wishes of the season, Rose Bortolon, Chairperson Métis Women of BC Lee Fraser, Women’s Representative, Lower Mainland Debra Huber, Women’s Representative, Thompson Okanagan Shaina McCallum, Women’s Representative, North Central Susie Hooper, Women’s Representative, Northwest

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

REGIONAL NEWS

Métis Nation Women Susie Hooper

he dedication and hard work of Susie Hooper over more than 15 years was recognized when she was named 2008 National Volunteer of the Year by the Canadian Diabetes Association. She’s a volunteer, educator and diabetes advocate. Hooper added the award to the Caring for Children’s Outstanding Education Assistant Award she received in September. She points to her husband, Doug, who has diabetes, as the initiating factor in her more than 15 years of volunteer involvement on behalf of diabetes. Hooper has a life-long commitment to education, helping students to remain in school and make healthy choices in all aspects of their life. Her youth work extends to the Tri-River Métis community, where she shares the advice: Be proud of yourself, be proud of who you are. Hooper received the award at the 12th annual Canadian Diabetes Association and Canadian Society of Endocrinology and Metabolism Professional Conference and annual meetings in Montreal, Quebec, Oct. 17. “I am very pleased and honoured to receive this award,” said Hooper. “It came as a very nice surprise to me. I have the good fortune to work with people like Jean Blake and Boyanne Young of the Pacific Area who help guide me in all areas of volunteering for the Canadian Diabetes Association. I also have a very loving, supportive husband, family

and community who are great volunteers right beside me.” The award honours volunteers, either individuals or groups, who have gone above and beyond in supporting the work of the association. This includes the demonstration of outstanding dedication over a minimum of 10 years, or outstanding achievement, recognizing an accomplishment that has greatly advanced the association towards its goals. “The Canadian Diabetes Association is proud to recognize the achievements of its volunteers and partners,” said a press release. “The association could not meet its mandate without the outstanding help and support it continues to receive from individuals and organizations across the country. This year’s awards nominees and recipients have all truly helped to make a difference in the lives of the many Canadians affected by diabetes, and choosing the award winners was a difficult task, said Dr. Richard (Sam) Rowe, professor, endocrinology & metabolism and chair of the national awards committee for the Canadian Diabetes Association. The conference was attended by more than 2,500 diabetes clinicians, researchers and educators from across Canada and around the world. Susie Hooper, from Smithers, is the Region 6 representative with Métis Women of B.C.

Communicating Herstory from Kimberly Hayek

he herstory within my grandmother drum is diverse, dangerous and caring. The stories of my grandmothers are unique to me. The herstory of women sharing our ways of being, our ways of caring, our ways of survival are unique. The creation of this drum was a genealogy discovery of women ways. Teacups being used for trading services for medicines, chickens used for payments for midwifery care, grains and sugars in exchange for 100 pound sack of potatoes-these are basic women’s trading post, trap lines and Wal-mart’s. The danger became real when the winter snow storm pushed through the slabs of the sod house. Women have been in the fore front of communication using many tools and devices. Diaries and family bibles have been used as a record of family births, deaths, recipes and community events for centuries. It is still widely used. Many old bibles that are found are donated to local museums, in order to archive the telling of women’s ways. Quilting bee’s, my personal favorite, were a conference to update the surrounding counties, villages and towns. What better way than to chat and learn whose crop failed, who had a baby, gossip about the town drunk and how many cattle made it through the winter! Quilting communication aided in passing on women’s ways to younger generations, getting tips on the best bread recipe and telling a young bride or first time mother of what to expect. Today women communicate with Tupperware, birth classes, Avon and the like. I know that I go to most parties I am invited to just to be with women. I listen, I learn, I laugh and feel a little better about myself. My grandmother drum is my communication tool to pass on wisdom and women’s ways to my daughters. 38

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

REGIONAL NEWS Métis Nation British Columbia Bruce Dumont President, MNBC

Lissa Smith

Dave Hodgson Rose Bortolon Vice-President, MNBC Provincial Women Rep.

Henry Hall Lower Mainland

Bob Trumbley Thompson Okanagan

Stephanie Albiston Chair of BC United Métis Youth Circle

Gerry Legare Kootenays

Regional Directors

Annette Maurice North Central

René Therrien Northwest Region

Dan Pope Northeast Region

Métis Nation British Columbia Regions and Métis Chartered Communities Northeast Northwest

North Central Lower Mainland Kootenays

Vancouver Island Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

Thompson/ Okanagan 39

REGIONAL NEWS Lower Mainland

Vancouver Island I would like to take this opportunity to wish all our families and citizens a very joyous, warm and safe holiday season. During the holidays and throughout the year spending time with family and friends is an integral part of our tradition. Also remembering those we have lost and those that may hurting or may be less fortunate is humbling as we reflect on the past year and move forward into a New Year. We have accomplished much as Métis people this past year and I look forward to our continued achievements in the coming year. It has been my pleasure to serve our Vancouver Island communities as Region 1 Director and I am also very honoured to be able to serve as the Minister of Veterans with MNBC. Wishing you all the joys of the holiday season and a Happy New Year! Lissa Smith Region 1 Director MNBC Minister for Veterans Maddy dancing the Jig

Louis Riel Day is Celebrated at MNBC Head Office Métis Nation BC hosted an afternoon celebration on November 14 in honour of Louis Riel Day, which this year takes place on Sunday, November 16th. The celebration was an Open House with traditional and contemporary food, fiddling and dance. Approximately 60 people attended including community members, corporate and government partners and friends. Entertainment included jigging by Maddy McCallum. Talented musicians included Amy Eusterling on keyboard, Keith Hill on fiddle and guitar, and Aimee Fauteux on fiddle, and Winston Wuttenee on guitar with vocals. President Bruce Dumont celebrated with staff, friends, partners and Métis citizens Friday, November 14th at the Métis Nation BC Open House, honouring Louis Riel Day. In his comments President Dumont asked all those present to visualize what it was like for our ancestors in the 1800’s, visualize life as hunters and trappers, as mixed blood first peoples of Rupert’s Land. President Dumont stated, “We are here today to remember where we have come from, and to celebrate the memory and honour one of our greatest heroes, Louis Riel. Other guests included Stephanie Albiston, Provincial Youth Chairperson and Minister Responsible for Youth and Sports, and Sasha Hobbs, Métis community member and Program Manager of the Aboriginal Youth Internship Program. And of course Bruce and Joanne.

Angel serving the food

Aimee, “The Little Fiddler”

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

REGIONAL NEWS Thompson-Okanagan Thompson Okanagan Regional Director The last quarter of 2008, has been very interesting and busy one for all of the communities of the Thompson Okanagan. Many new issues and opportunities have been presented and will continue to be oncoming in the year ahead. The Annual General Meeting in Kelowna was a tremendous success and a very positive experience for all those in attendance. Visiting guests describe an aura of positives and family that they have seldom felt in any meeting of such a magnitude of people and were impressed by the respect shown for differing opinions. The ability of those in attendance to present their views, to be heard, to be respectful and to be respected by the audience speaks volumes about the progress the BC Métis have made over the years. We all can remember those days in the past, where it seemed some individuals were intent on presenting their own personal views and agendas. These views at times were very negative and for serving self interests. Often the loudest voice was the one heard and at times the truth was sacrificed for the benefits to be gained for the advancement of personal objectives and ideals, not necessarily for the common good. It speaks very highly of the maturation of the Métis in BC that the focus of the vast majority of Métis people has changed. The change from the advancement of personal individual agendas, to an agenda focused on the needs of the Métis people, the youth, the women and the elders. Agendas and comments that were about personal gain still appear occasionally, but the grassroots Métis expect and deserve a higher degree of ethics and honorable intentions from their leaders. Gone are the days that those with malicious intent can present unjustified and untruthful agendas that are designed to create negative feelings. The grassroots Métis citizens do not want to hear these age old negatives, but want to hear about positive ideas and solutions that can help them in the resolution of their day to day issues. They want and expect their leadership to work united in developing the programs and services that will benefit the nation now and for its future generations. We in the Thompson Okanagan are very fortunate to have a group of presidents in our communities that are concerned with the advancement of the issues affecting our citizens. As the Regional Director, a major part my mandate is to continue to strengthen our communities, so they can best deliver the services and programs developed to our citizens.

Bob Trumbley, Reg 3 Director and his sister, Marlene Beattie, Captain of the Hunt, Reg 3

We feel we can strengthen all our communities even further by the sharing of the strengths each community has developed. Strengths developed such as proposal writing, grant accessing, fund raising and the delivery of community and culture programs are stronger in some communities then they are in others. Sharing of these strengths will only serve to strengthen all of our communities, the common goal shared by each of the presidents within our Region. Merry Christmas to all, Bob Trumbley Boundary Métis Community Association A two day salmon filleting and smoking workshop was held by youth and elders from the Boundary Métis Community Association in October. There were 27 participants including 20 youth, said youth project coordinator Tanis Carson. This projected started in 2007 and continues to be very successful with all events well attended, she added. During last year’s event tipi pole harvesting took place. Then this year a pole peeling competition took place, men against women … and the women won! The workshop was facilitated by one of our most used cultural resource people, Billy Metcalf from Grand Forks, B. C., said Carson. Salmon was smoked using the traditional method. Another highlight was moose stew, bannock and soup, made by Elder Joan Holmes.

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

REGIONAL NEWS Thompson-Okanagan

Buffy Sainte Marie Comes to Vernon to meet with Aboriginal Elders Group. Sandra Milner, Vernon Métis Association, was on hand to meet Buffy

Grand Forks Celebrates with Tradition The Boundary Métis Community Celebrated Louis Riel Day on Sunday November 16th, 2008. The celebration was hosted by the Boundary Métis Community Youth Initiative in Collaboration with the Boundary Métis Community Association and supported by Métis Nation B.C., BC150 and Heritage Canada. In memory of Louis Riel and to celebrate B.C.’s 150th birthday we had a lunch with the main course being buffalo, elk and deer stew. The meat was donated to our celebration by our dear and ever supportive community hunter; Lawrence Saur, and cooked by our Elders Joan Holmes and Bert Saur. In commemoration of Louis Riel A script from the trial of Louis Riel was read by President Trevor Murdock, and vice President Danny Williamson, opening prayer and a speech on the Province of British Columbia was delivered by Elder Joan Holmes. Traditional Métis fiddle music was played by one of our community musicians; Eddie Plotnikoff. As a way of honouring and remembering Louis Riel on the 16th day of November, 16 blue and white balloons were released into the sky by our youth. 42

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

REGIONAL NEWS Visit the Métis Heritage and Okanagan Métis Community Services and Kelowna Métis Association joined forces to put on their Annual Louis Riel Potluck Supper. Over 350 people attended this wonderful event! Bev Lambert, our very own Cultural Dance Instructor, was on hand to teach the children how to jig! Val Richards was able to pull together a wonderful evening full of good food, great entertainment, laughter and a cultural gathering that would make Louis Riel proud! Kelowna Métis President Leo Brazeau was on hand to assist with the sashing of many Métis children. Each Métis child was presented with a family history book and one child received a special Inuit gift to honour her heritage.

Cultural Council Society www.metisheritage.com Please take a little time to browse through our site to see if we can be of some assistance to you. We provide membership and citizenship services for everybody who is currently Métis or who may think they may have enough genealogical history that they may be Métis. We have access to financial resources for post secondary education through Métis Nation BC education and training office, but be sure to apply up to six months prior to graduation from high school to give yourself the best chance of approval. Volunteers are always welcome at our community events such as National Aboriginal Day, June 21. Latest news We have a new home! Effective 17 of July 2008, we have an office in downtown Penticton, behind Peach City Runners (just two doors south of Starbucks) at 212 Main Street. We are now open with volunteer staff from 10AM - 1pm, Monday - Friday (Except for Statutory Holidays). Okanagan Métis Community Services has opened an office right beside us so if you are looking for communitybased services, they are the folks with whom you need to speak.

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

REGIONAL NEWS

Photo: Marilynn Faynat-Taylor

Kootenay

Photo courtesy of Boundary Métis Association -Generations Unite

Kootenay South Kootenay South Métis Community held a dinner August 27, 2008. Many people attended and had a good time. Guests included Bruce Dumont, Dave Hodgson, Stephanie Albiston, Provincial Youth chair, Veteran Gordon McGregor and wife Diane, Senator Bob Adams and wife, Lynn. Bob and Lynne were celebrating their wedding anniversary. A cake was presented to them. Bruce Dumont danced the Red River Jig with Jennifer Fayant, McKenna and Madison Gibb, Piper Fayant and Marilynn Fayant-Taylor – President of Kootenay South. Another community dinner will be held December 6, 2008 at the Trail United church Hall @5 p.m. Submitted by Marilynn Fayant-Taylor 44

Here is a bi-monthly update to let you know what is happening in the Kootenay Region and in the office in Cranbrook. • Kootenay Director Gerry Legare attended an Aboriginal Advisory Committee meeting at the College of the Rockies in Cranbrook on Oct. 2. • Len Bassett a past member of the Cranbrook Métis Society passed away on Oct. 14 in Edmonton. The funeral service was on Oct. 21 in Dawson Creek, B.C. • Central Community president Janet Matishak and secretary treasurer Wendy Favel hosted a potluck dinner in Cranbrook. Our regional youth rep, Dallas Favel, attended. We had a small turn out, but lots of fun. • Legare was away from the office on Oct. 16, until Oct. 22 - when he flew from Cranbrook to Vancouver. MNBC President Bruce Dumont picked up Legare at the airport and they drove to the MNBC office and met with Milt Wright and Bruce Leslie of the B.C. Liberal Government. Later they met with Hans Von Donhoff the Federal Interlocutor representative from Ottawa. That evening Dumont and Legare drove to Harrison Hot Springs for a two and half days of board of directors orientation. Monday, Oct. 20 Legare and Director Jennifer Daignault attended the law office of MNBC legal counsel Joseph Gereluk. Later they met members representing the Ministry of Children and

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

REGIONAL NEWS Family Development. They were amazed at the cooperation and willingness to work with MNBC. • On Oct. 19 - Carmelle Laroche was part of an interview committee for a Social Worker position at the Ktunaxa Child & Family Services. • Oct. 21 till Oct. 31 - Brandy Hoglund, our Employment & Training Program coordinator was in Vancouver for training. We sure missed her while she was away. Now she is back. • Oct. 22 - Matishak and Favel conducted a supper and meeting in Creston, which was well attended. • Oct. 29 - Legare and Matishak attended the School District #5 Enhancement agreement meeting. This meeting was about tracking our progress over the last three years. • Oct. 29 - Legare met with Robin Beattie Laine and Simon Ross from the College of the Rockies to support Aboriginal programs. • Oct. 30, 31 and Nov. 1 - Métis Nation Columbia River Society and Kicking Horse Culture held an event in Golden. John Arcand, Vicky Arcand and Métis Jig dancer Yvonne Chartrand performed at the Golden Civic Centre. It was a golden moment. All workshops and teaching sessions were well attended. • Nov. 3 - Legare, director of children and families, had a meeting with the Ktunaxa Child & Family Service Providers. Those attending were Bart Knudsgaard and Heidi Hebditch. • Nov. 6 - Legare and Hoglund, the program coordinator of the Kootenay Employment & Training Program, attended a meeting with the Ministry Of Housing and Social Development to initiate a partnership with MARDA and the ministry. Mount Baker Secondary School had its Métis Flag raising ceremony at 11 a.m. on Nov. 14. Speakers were Kootenay Region Director Gerry Legare, Kootenay Region Veteran Gordon McGregor, Janet Matishak, president of the Cranbrook Community, Curtis Pocha, community youth, Roberta Rogers, School District No. 5 board member, Catherine Teneesse, Ktunaxa rep. and Elders Ted and Louise Fiddler, Lil Miller and Mel Ratch. We had a very good turn out with the Mount Baker Métis student association and other Aboriginal students. Please forward any information pertaining to your community events or any future events to Carmelle Laroche at reg4registry@mnbc.ca.

North Central

Stan & Drina Dotchain, Prince George

November 18th is a day of celebration for the Dotchain family or Prince George. Not only is it the wedding anniversary of Stan and Drina, it’s also Drina’s birthday. She was 92 this year when the happy couple celebrated their 69th wedding anniversary. Dressed in a wedding dress which cost her $10, Drina was married to Stan according to the Rite of the Roman Catholic Church and in conformity with the laws of the Province of Manitoba, on November 18, 1939. The witnesses were Harry Perrault and Severe Lafond. She laughed a little and said, “You sure couldn’t get a wedding dress for that now a days.” They had three beautiful children, Erie (born Sept. 25, 1940), Diane (born July 20, 1942) and Dennis (born Sept. 27, 1951). Stan is an MNBC North Central Veterans Standing Committee member. Drina’s favourite colour is rose, her favourite season is summer and she enjoys watching Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy. Congratulations from: Prince George Métis Community Association Rose Bortolon, Métis Women British Columbia Chairperson Annette Maurice, MNBC North Central Regional Director Shaina McCallum, MWBC North Central Womens Representative Prince George Métis Elders Society Nechako Métis Elders Society

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

Celebrating Louis Riel Day by Colleen Hodgson MNBC Director of Education and Culture

Louis Riel’s voice was loud and clear in the Prince George Métis community on Sunday, November 16th. For the first time in the history of the city, the Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC) flag flew from city hall. The event was supported by funding from the MNBC BC150 Project (Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts) in recognition of the significant contributions Métis people have made to the development of British Columbia. Over 100 people gathered to celebrate Métis culture and their community spirit. Many guests arrived from various communities, including Deputy Minister Shirley Bond. As the provincial Minister of Education, Minister Bond recognized the contributions of Métis people to the history of B.C., and commented on the need to include Métis children and youth in Enhancement Agreements. MNBC Vice President Dave Hodgson participated as well as Regional Director Annette Maurice, Minister of Women Rose Bortolon, and Director of Education and Culture Colleen Hodgson.

Bev Lambert - Métis Dance Instructor

George and Terry Goulet delivered a presentation on their new book, “The Métis in British Columbia: From Fur Trade Outposts to Colony”. The book is one of the education and culture initiatives included in the BC150 Project. The Goulets are travelling throughout British Columbia sharing stories from the book. Over forty copies of the book were purchased by community members and several more have been ordered. Prince George Métis Association President Tom Spence coordinated the celebration which included a silent Auction, cake walk, 50/50 draw and a food hamper draw. Two of the food hamper winners were Dave Hodgson’s wife, Dillys, and Métis dance instructor Bev Lambert. Both donated the food hampers back to the community.

George and Terry Goulet in Prince George

Prince George Métis Community Youth 46

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

Deputy Premier Bond, MNBC VP Dave Hodgson, Director of Education and Culture, Colleen Hodgson

Thank you for having the opportunity once again to touch base with Region 5 Métis constituents. As North Central Regional Director I am have been very busy. It has been very exciting! The inaugurations in Kelowna were indeed a serious and exciting event for me.  I am sure each one of us take our roles seriously, and are here to serve the Métis citizens in our respective regions.  The Prince George Métis Community Association will be hosting the Louis Riel Days on November 16th. Again, this is a proud day. The doors will be open to anyone who wants to join us in this celebration. Over a century later after the hanging of Louis Riel, the Métis still are: The proud and persistent Métis. Region 5 will be having the Regional Governance Council meeting in Quesnel on November 21. Plans are also in the works to visit Valemont in November. We certainly look forward to this visit.  In closing, I would like to take this opportunity to wish Region 5 Métis a very Merry Christmas, a bright and prosperous New Year.

Grandchildren of the North

Please feel free to call me at 250-612-8851, or email amaurice@mnbc.ca For this time, celebrate Louis Riel Days with Pride. Sincerely, Annette Maurice, Region 5, Regional Director, Minister for Justice.

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

REGIONAL NEWS Northwest News from Northwest Region Terrace: Tsatia Marcella Adzich is a member of the Tri- River Métis Association. She lives in Smithers, B.C.  Born a local resident Feb.24, 1993 she has brought many proud moments to all her family and friends. She brings to the Métis Association many years of Karate/Kick boxing Experience and successes. She joined Karate with Renshi Marwan Abu Khadra of Shogun Dojo in Smithers in 2003. While being extremely focused she has continued to win medals Locally, Provincially and Nationally in Karate/ Kick boxing. Fighting in both Continuous and Point Fighting categories in her age and weight category. She won the World Championship in Niagara Falls 2005. Most recently in May 2008 she came home with a Gold Medal as Canadian Champion. Last year despite a serious knee injury she was able to snag her BLACK BELT. We are so proud of Tsatia and wish her all the best in her future endeavours. First Annual Tri-River Métis Soft Ball Tournament   The Tri-River Métis Association had an old fashioned Soft Ball Tournament this past August.  The event was funded by the ActNow Projects and was a great success. Members of all ages and from many communities came out on a beautiful Sunday afternoon to play ball, visit and enjoy barbecued buffalo burgers.  A young member, Grant Hooper, won the Moose Antler Trophy, crafted by George Ewald, for being the most enthusiastic player There are plans to continue the annual event and the coveted Moose Antler Trophy will again be eligible to win.   Join us next year and challenge our players in the tournament.

Fall Fair in Bulkley Valley The Tri-River Métis Association had a very successful event August 21-24, in Smithers at the Annual Bulkley Valley Fall Fair and Exhibition.  We had a booth where we exhibited Métis art, music, history and crafts.   People stopped by for a visit, tried the jigging lessons with Bev Lambert, played the spoons, and danced the puppets to fiddle music by Rene.  We were very busy and everyone was interested in our Métis community. It was an excellent opportunity to promote our culture, Employment and Training centre, Citizenship, ActNow Projects and meet new members. We are already planning for the next BV Fall Fair.

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

REGIONAL NEWS Northeast

First Aboriginal Councillor in Dawson Creek

awson Creek’s first aboriginal councillor, Theresa Gladue, is looking forward to “very exciting times”. “I feel I can bring our people’s concerns to the council and I will be heard,” she said, after being elected one of the six alderman from a field of 11. She received 1,237 votes in the contest. “Our newly elected council consists of four women and three men.” Gladue is a long time resident of the community, is married and works as the Aboriginal Education Coordinator at Northern Lights College. “From the day I started volunteering for my community, I was quickly impressed by the huge responsibility that the people of Dawson Creek had entrusted to me. I took nothing for granted then, nor do I now,” she said during an election forum. “I am a candidate on the ballot for the first time. This journey to run for city council has been very interesting and I am learning so much along the way. Some mornings I wake up thinking, “What the heck have I gotten myself into?” Then, as the cobwebs clear, I think: “I know I can do this because I’ve been doing it

unofficially for a long time now.” She is on the board of the South Peace Arts Council, the Dawson Creek Literary Society, the Regional Arts Council and the Dawson Creek Golf & Country Club and was a co-founder of the Toastmaster Club ‘The Noon Toastiest’ and of the Dawson Creek Aboriginal Women’s Resource Society. “I created Oma Productions for the sole purpose of raising funds for local non-profit organizations and because of this I have received a BC Community Achievement Award as well as many other awards for community involvement,” she told voters. “I believe the most important part of being a councillor is to find answers for our citizens,” she said promising to learn more about community needs. “We have some difficult issues and there are no easy solutions, but finding answers just takes some good old-fashioned hard work and I am a hard working, easy going person who believes that no job is impossible to take on. I am self motivated, and I am not afraid to go out and meet new people, which makes me a perfect candidate for city councillor.” When Gladue was honoured with a 2008 Community Achievement Award the citation said, “Theresa Gladue is an outstanding volunteer in Dawson Creek and an advocate for the Aboriginal people in her community. She co-founded the Dawson Creek Aboriginal Women’s Awareness Society and, as a playwright, has produced and directed public entertainment that enhances cultural diversity and dialogue.” Elders Mae and Bob Barrett

Marcel and Dorothy Folk

Tara Wright and Ryanna Germain

Rose and Walter Green

Fort St John Celebrates Louis Riel Days Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

MNBC AGM Newly MNBC Elected Leaders Sworn into Office at

Métis Nation BC Annual General Meeting!

he importance of the past was highlighted while leaders were welcomed to their newly elected positions during the 11th annual general meeting of the Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC), in Kelowna, Sept. 26-28. Hundreds of Métis citizens witnessed the official inauguration of the MNBC leadership — 21 leaders elected Sept. 13th, including the president, vice president, regional directors, women and youth chairpersons and regional women and youth representatives. “I am looking forward to the next four years and the continued growth of our proud nation,” said President Bruce Dumont. “I would like to thank all of the individuals who attended the AGM and acknowledge their commitment and willingness to move the Métis Nation British Columbia forward.” Under the AGM theme “Building our Legacy” another component of the weekend meetings was official release of “The Métis in British Columbia: From Fur Trade Outposts to Colony”. George and Terry Goulet, authors of the best selling book “The Trial of Louis Riel: Justice and Mercy Denied” collaborated to produce a book that details the history of Métis people in British Columbia. Every delegate was given a copy of the book. The book was one of several projects aimed at enabling Métis citizens to share in celebrating B.C.’s 150th anniversary. It was funded by $150,000 announced by the Hon. Mike de Jong, B.C. Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation, when he spoke at the opening ceremonies. “It is only right that we recognize and salute the Métis for their valuable contributions to British Columbia over the last 150 years,” said de Jong. “We will continue to learn and work with all Aboriginal people to preserve and celebrate a fundamental part of our province’s history and present identity.” 50

Lee Fraser and daughter, Shaina McCallum, Debra Huber

Other portions of the BC150 project include: • A DVD that shares the biographies of significant Métis people in the settlement of B.C. • Métis cultural festivals across B.C. including a provincial celebration of Louis Riel Day Nov. 16th. • A music DVD highlighting the significance of Métis music in B.C. and the artists who perform it, and • Publication of an illustrated guidebook about the Métis Nation in B.C. today.

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

MNBC will celebrate its contributions to the development of British Columbia and the achievements of Métis people in shaping British Columbia’s history through these projects which have been undertaken through a collaboration between MNBC, de Jong’s ministry and the B.C. Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts. “The Métis in B.C. played a significant role in the formation of this province, and it is inspiring to have the province’s recognition and support of this important initiative,” said Dumont. “Métis citizens will have the opportunity to celebrate their unique culture and share it with other Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal residents of B.C.” During de Jong’s visit to the AGM, he announced $50,000 towards the development of the Métis Cultural DVD project and support for Métis community cultural celebrations. MNBC, in collaboration with the University of British Columbia Okanagan’s Dr. Mike Evans, launched the project which includes the creation of a participatory DVD series about the history and culture of Métis in B.C. This series provides an innovative interactive DVD that features a number of distinct strands about Métis history, culture, elder life histories, music and dance, the Michif lan-

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

guage and harvesting, according to Evans. â&#x20AC;&#x153;An integral part of the DVD is the extensive community involvement in all stages of the process. The DVD has been developed for use in high schools and communities across the province.â&#x20AC;? Also during the meeting, an important piece of legislation was passed by MĂŠtis citizens to further establish self governance. That was the MNBC Natural Resource Act. The weekend was filled with cultural entertainment, workshops and a well attended trade show where artists and partners gathered to showcase their programs, art and crafts.

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

BCMANR

BC Métis Natural Resources

Métis Nation BC will be issuing Harvesting Cards under the Authority of the MNBC Natural Resource Act. The MNBC Natural Resource Act was passed into MNBC Legislation on September 27, 2008 at the Métis Nation BC – Annual General Meeting. Subsequently the BC Métis Assembly of Natural Resources placed a motion forward, under section 9.0 b of the Act, asking AGM delegates to support issuance of Harvesting Cards for use in replacing the Government of Canada – Migratory Bird licence (also known as the duck stamp). This motion was passed unanimously. It is a strategy of the MNBC Ministry of Natural Resources to undertake management of Métis access to natural resources in a way that provides protection from prosecution for our harvesters, exerts our will to take responsibility for Métis harvesters and control Métis harvests and keep Métis rights out of the courts until our research is complete. • It is important that MNBC protects harvesters, to the extent possible from prosecution. MNBC will take precautions to insure that Métis operating under the MNBC Harvesting Card are at low risk. • The Federal Migratory Birds Convention Act states under Interpretations - (3) For greater certainty, nothing in this Act shall be construed so as to abrogate or derogate from any existing aboriginal or treaty rights of the aboriginal peoples of Canada under section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982 • The policy within the Federal Government is to defer licensing charges against Métis unless there is Conservation, Public Safety of Public Health concern. • There have been no Métis charges for hunting migratory birds without a licence since this policy has been adopted. • There is a low risk of prosecution for Métis using the Harvesting Card for Migratory Bird harvesting. • Métis Citizens and Communities are very supportive of Métis management of Métis harvesting activities. Even though some may consider the use of the MNBC Harvesting Card for Migratory Birds a very small step, it is forward movement toward management of our own harvesting activities and responsibilities. • MNBC is negotiating a Migratory Bird Harvest Monitoring Agreement with the Canadian Wildlife Service to further expand our abilities to develop good management capabilities. •From now until March 31, 2009, MNBC has adopted the existing government regulations for Migratory Bird harvesting. As our understanding of the state of migratory

bird populations and traditional harvesting patterns grows, MNBC may be in a position to defend more liberal seasons and limits for our harvesters. A key strategy of MNBC Ministry of Natural Resources is the research into historical Métis communities, traditional harvesting practices, current harvesting practices and family connections throughout BC. We have actively encouraged Métis to avoid going to Court until we have completed this research. There are currently more than nine thousand documents in the joint MNBC/UBC-Okanagan - Historical Document Database. It is beginning to become clear that our research will support Métis Rights in BC. As our researchers continue to connect BC Métis families and interpret historical information, MNBC will continue to look for a candidate for a protest hunt that will serve as the foundation of a British Columbia Métis Rights challenge. Applications for MNBC Harvesting Cards – online at www. mnbc.ca Applications for the MNBC Harvesting Card is available online through a link on the MNBC Home page. Applicants can commence the application process by filling out the online application or print the forms and send directly to MNBC. Some of those who are computer savvy will be able to upload digital copies of their training documents, signed documents etc. In fact everything except payment can be done online. Others may be more comfortable printing off the documents and filling them out prior to sending by regular mail. Payments must be made by surface mail to MNBC as per instructions. The payment is a cost recovery for the card only. Harvesting Card-processing time is at present unknown, however it is expected to take days to a few weeks and not months, as is the case with the Citizenship Cards. For more information contact the MNBC Director of Natural Resources or your Regional Captain.

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

MNC

Métis National Council Comes to Victoria, B.C.

Bear Mountain, Victoria, B.C. was the setting for MNC’s retreat and board meeting early November. President Clem Chartier welcomed delegates from Métis Nation British Columbia, Métis Nation Alberta, Métis Nation Saskatchewan, Manitoba Métis Federation, and Métis Nation Ontario. This three-day gathering gave Provincial presidents and other board members an opportunity to discuss many issues that are important throughout Canada. Delegates heard from the VANOC team regarding the 2010 games and how every Métis citizen could be involved in some way. MNC Minister of Culture and Sports and MNBC

President Bruce Dumont will take the lead to liaise with the Four Host Nations and VANOC to ensure that Métis across the Homeland have opportunities to get involved whether it is through an athletics journey, economic development possibilities or as a spectator. Métis citizens will be involved in the opening and closing ceremonies as well have an opportunity to display our culture in the Four Host First Nations 2010 Aboriginal Pavilion. President Chartier presented sashes to the VANOC team – Dan Doyle, VANOC Executive Vice President, Construction,

VANOC team, Hillary Dunn, Lea MacKenzie, Tewanee Joseph and Dan Doyle, gets sashed by MNC Minister responsible Sports. Bruce Dumont

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

Tewanee Joseph, Four Host First Nations Executive Director, Hillary Dunn, Manager of Aboriginal Participation and Lea Nicholas-MacKenzie, Director of Aboriginal Outreach and Participation. Métis National council delegates also had the opportunity to learn about The Canadian Museum for Human Rights. This unique National Museum is the first Canadian national museum to be built in 40 years and the first national museum in Canada to be located outside of Ottawa, our National Capital Region. It will explore the subject of human rights to enhance the public’s understanding of human rights, to promote respect for others and to encourage reflection and dialogue. Watch for an exciting interview with the people who are “Reaching for the Stars” in the next edition of Whispering Winds. Following the day’s meeting delegates were entertained by MNBC local talent! Coming to the stage were: Maddie McCallum, Summer Sage, The Lamoureaux Family and a book reading by George and Terry Goulet from their newest book “Métis in British Columbia” Following the reading, MNBC President Bruce Dumont presented each Canadian Métis President with an autographed copy of this history book. The evening ended with great fiddling by MNBC cultural minister, Rene Therrien and the Lamoureaux Family. A special thanks to the Director of Culture Colleen Hodgson for showcasing BC talent! The MNC retreat was a good starting point for the MNC board meeting which was planned for the following afternoon. More details will be available in March, 2009 Whispering Winds.

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

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Where Learning Works

Historical Métis Christmas and New Year Celebrations

étis, being a mixed blood nation of primarily European and First Nation ancestors, have adopted traditions of both. The celebrations of Christmas and New Years appear to be traditions that Métis were practicing since they first appeared on the North American scene. Several noted writers, from the 1700 and 1800, have documented the celebration of Christmas and New Years as holidays much as they are today. The significant threads that run through the documented history of Christmas in the Métis homeland are, gift giving and celebration, feasting on foods from the land, fiddling, jigging and dance, consumption of spirits and general merriment. In 1793, Alexander Mackenzie wrote: “On the First day of January, my people, in conformity to the usual custom, awoke me at the break of day with the discharge of firearms, with which they congratulated the appearance of the New Year. In return, they were treated to plenty of spirits and when there is any flour, cakes are always added to the regales, which was the case on the present occasion”. Fort Edmonton has an historic Christmas story that it continues to celebrate to this day. Newspapers reprint and reenactors recreate the story of the Fort Edmunton (Edmonton) Christmas of 1867. Artist Paul Kane is credited with the original story, however, it does not appear in any of his writings from the period. Christmas at Fort Edmunton in 1847 is described as follows: “a flag was raised at the post. Christmas Dinner was an enormous feast of boiled buffalo hump, boiled buffalo calf, dried moose nose, whitefish browned in buffalo marrow, buffalo tongue, beavers’ tails, roast wild goose, accompanied by potatoes, turnips, and bread. Dinner was served to all inhabitants of the fort. In the evening a dance was held in the great hall filled with gaily dressed guests. Indians, whose chief ornament consisted in the paint on their faces, voyageurs with bright sashes and neatly ornamented moccasins, half-breeds glittering in every ornament the could lay their hands on; whether civilized or savage, all were laughing, and jabbering in as many different languages as there was styles of dress”.

This story also speaks to Paul Kane’s experience dancing with a beautiful Métis girl: “I was so much struck with her beauty that I prevailed upon her to promise to sit for her likeness, which she afterward did with great patience, holding her fan, which was made of the tip end of swan’s wing with an ornamental handle of porcupine quills, in a very coquettish manner”. This portrait of the girl is said to be that of the girl named Cunnewa-bum (One who looks at the Stars). This portrait is said to be the portrait of “a Fort Edmonton Métis girl” that hangs in the Provincial Museum of Alberta. Métis celebrated Christmas and New Years in British Columbia as well. In the weeks and months immediately following the erection of Fort Langley, James McMillan described the scene around the Fort as “dull and monotonous.” However, on Christmas Eve, 1827, a surprise visit was paid by HBC Chief Trader Alexander Mackenzie from Fort Vancouver. Mackenzie was greeted at the fort by a beaming McMillan. What followed was a celebratory holiday fueled by liquor that had recently been delivered to the Fort. At Fort Astoria (at one time in British claimed territory on the Columbia River) Gabriel Franchere in 1812 described Christmas festivities: “The 25th of December, Christmas Day, we spent most pleasantly. We treated our men to the best the post could offer, which delighted them as they had lived for nearly two months on fish dried by the fire, which is very poor food”. During the 1800s the trade language in common use by Métis in British Columbia was Chinook Jargon, a language that, like Michef, was based on an aboriginal language (Chinook) with French and English words and terms. Chinook is an aboriginal language while Chinook Jargon is a Métis trade language. The following Chinook Christmas Carol in Chinook Jargon is offered on behalf of the Ministry of Natural Resources Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

The Night Before Christmas – Chinook Jargon

Kopa polaklie elip Xmas, konaway ka keekwullie kopa house      On night before Xmas, everywhere inside to house, Wake tillikum chako pe klatawa, hoolhool weght      No people come and go, mouse also Stoken, klaska midite kow kloshe kopa chimney,      Stocking, they be tied good to chimney, Kahkwa spose klonas St. Nick chako yahwa tenas laly alki.      Like if maybe St. Nick come there soon. Tenas tillikums mitlite waum kopa klaska bed      Children be warm in them bed. Klaska nanitch la suk plums keekwullie kopa klaska la tate.      Them see sugar plums inside them head. Mama mitlite hakatshum kopa la tate pe naika mitlite moosum chapo,      Mama have handkerchief on head and me have sleep hat, Nesaika chee mamook youtlkut moosum.      We begin longsleep. Klahanie kopa illahee, naika kumtux kopa kwolan iktas.      Outside on ground me hear things. Naika sopena klak bed, naika tikegh nanitch yaka.      Me jump off bed, me want look him Naika coolie hyak kopa window pe mamook hahlakl yaka.      Me run fast to window and open him. Moon kopa chee snow, yaka mamook kahkwa sun towagh kopa konaway iktas.      Moon on new snow, him make like daylight on everything. 58

Naika kumtux kopa eye, ikt tenas sleigh pe stotekin tenas mowitch      Me see one little sleigh and eight little deer and Pe ikt hyak tenas ole man.      One big little old man. Naika kumtux hyak, yaka St. Nick, nawitka.      Me know fast, him St. Nick, indeed. Hyak kahkwa chak-chak kawak okoke stotekin mowitch.      Fast like eagle fly this eight deer. Pe okoke tenas ole man, yaka whistle pe skookum wawa klaska yahul.      And this little old man him whistle and strong talk them name. “Alta Dasher, alta Dancer, alta Prancer, alta Vixen      “Now Dasher, now Dancer, now Prancer, now Vixen, Klatawa Comet, klatawa Cupid, klatawa Donder pe Blitzen.      Go comet, go Cupid, go Donder and Blitxen. Saghalie kopa porch, saghalie kopa kullaghan,      Up on porch, up on wall, Alta klatawa hyak, alta klatawa hyak, alta klatawa hyak konaway mesaika!      Now go fast, now go fast, now go fast you all! Alta klatawa saghalie kopa koosah,      Like dry leaves fly on strong wind, So saghalie kopa house okoke mowitch kawak,      And go high in sky. So up on house this deer fly. Klaska sleigh pahtl kopa toys pe St. Nick weght.      Them sleigh full with toys and St. Nick also. Alta hyak naika kumtux kopa kwolan,      Now, fast me know with ear,

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Konaway mowitch klaska koko le pee, saghalie kopa house.      All deer them tap feet, up on house. Kunsih naika chako kilapai klak window, naika nanitch St. Nick.      When me come return off window me see St. Nick. Yaka chako whim kopa chimney.      He come fall down chimney. St. Nick capote yaka tkope animal tupsoo      St. Nick coat him white animal hair Keschi capote mitlite hiyu ashes kopa yaka.      But coat have many ashes on it. Ikt hyas la sak pahtl kopa toys St. Nick lolo kopa okoke.      One big bagfull of toys St. Nick carry on shoulder. Yaka kahkwa klahowyum mahkook man kunsih yaka mamook hahlakl la sac      Him like poor sell man when him open bag. St. Nick mokst eye, klaska kahkwa mokst tenas towagh.      St. Nick two eye, them like two small light. Yaka kapala klaska kahkwa mokst pil le bal.      Him cheek, them like two red ball. Yaka emeets kahkwa hyas pil amota.      Him nose like big red strawberry. Yaka tenas la push, yaka kahkwa kow pil la loba.      Him small mouth, him like tied red ribbon. Seeowist tupsoo, yaka tkope kahkwa snow.      Face hair, him white like snow. Youtskut la peep, yaka mitlite kopa la tah,      Short pipe, him be in teeth. Smoke, yaka mitlite kahkwa tkope kweokweo lowullo saghalie la tate      Smoke, him be like white ring around above head.

St. Nick mitlite hyas pil seeowist pe hyas yakwatin.      St. Nick have big red face and big stomach. Okoke yakwatin, yaka hullel kahkwa jelly kunsih St. Nick mamook hee-hee.      This stomach him shake like jelly when St. Nick laugh. St. Nick, yaka youd tenas ole man.      St. Nick, him happy little old man. Naika halo kwass pe naika mamook hee-hee kunsih nanitch yaka      Me not afraid and me laugh when look him. St. Nick mamook pe yaka halo wawa.      St. Nick work and him not talk. Kunsih yaka kopet mamook pahd konaway stoken, yaka nanitch kilapai      When him stop make full all stocking, him look back. St Nick le-doo tenas koko yaka emeets.      St. Nick finger tap him nose Yaka klatawa saghalie pe klak enatai chimney.      And him go up and off other side chimney. Yaka sopena kopa sleigh pe mamook whistle.      Him jump to sleigh and do whistle. Mowitch, klaska kawak hyak, nawidka.      Deer, them fly fast, indeed. Keschi, naika kumtux kopa kwolan, kunsih klaska klatawa siah,      But, me know with ear, when them go far, St Nick skookum wawa “Kwan Xmas pe kloshe polaklie kopa konaway tillikum.”      St. Nick yell, “Happy Xmas and Good Night to all people.”

This translation was published in the Stanford University linguistic department’s Sesquipedalian Weekly Herald Vol. IV, No. 11 (Dec. 19, 1993)

Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

The Christmas Tree I

t was Christmas Eve day. The snow was falling softly, covering the meadow like a fuzzy white blanket. Our cabin sat on the hill, smoke from the stove pipe disappearing into the whiteness. I stood on the porch with my sister and two brothers, bundled in winter jackets and boots. A mosaic of home made mittens and hand-me-downs. A look of determination on our faces. The Christmas tree gang. Days before, our Dad had informed us that there was no place to put a Christmas tree in our one-room cabin. The cabin consisted of a make-shift kitchen, a wood stove and a bed where our Mom and Dad slept. The four of us kids, aged seven, nine, ten and twelve, slept in bunk beds in a 14’ by 16’ wall tent behind the cabin. The bathroom was down the trail behind the wall tent. After some discussion we convinced our Dad that the porch would be the perfect place to put a Christmas tree. It was dry, you could see it through the kitchen window and the lights would be like stars in the sky. We set off into the bush, my sister carrying the swede saw like a queen carrying a scepter. We plodded through the snow, down the hill and headed for the trees. There was a small valley south of the cabin where spruce and pine trees grew in abundance. There was sure to be the perfect Christmas tree amongst them. We reached the bottom of the valley, where the creek wound along frozen under the snow. Spruce trees lined the bank above the creek and we started the search for the perfect Christmas tree. We took turns shaking 60

snow off several trees, giving each one a critical review. The branches were too far apart on some. Others were crooked or too short. Some were too tall or too difficult to reach to cut down. After some discussion we decided that we would look on the other side of the creek. There was sure to be the perfect Christmas tree there. We traipsed down the creek looking for a good place to cross. After finding a narrow crossing, my sister led the way; saw in hand, guiding us like the famous Sherpas guiding climbers on Mount Everest. We crossed one at a time and huddled on the opposite side. The snow had started to fall harder and the trees on the bank were a white cloud. We trudged up the bank, our steps a little slower, our breath spewing out like a kettle. And there it was, the perfect Christmas tree. We circled the tree, grins on our faces. It was a little bit too tall but we could shorten it we decided. The winter light was fading quickly as my sister raised the saw and cut into the tree’s bark, sawdust falling onto the snow. We took turns sawing, laughing and sharing our victory. The tree creaked and snapped and finally fell. It looked much bigger lying down. We went to work, cutting several feet off. We finished sawing and grabbed onto the tree to drag it down to the creek. The falling snow had covered our tracks and the creek bottom was a distant contour in the dark. As we stumbled down the bank the tree pulled us

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along, gaining momentum until we landed at the edge of the creek covered in snow and spruce needles. After shaking ourselves off we gripped the tree, my sister in the front holding the thick base of the tree and my youngest brother balancing the tip of the tree. We edged onto the ice, carefully finding our footing as we went. We barely reached the opposite bank when we heard the crack. It sounded like a gunshot. It was the ice breaking. We all turned at the same time to see our youngest brotherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s feet go out from beneath him as he went through the ice. We stared in disbelief. The tree was so long that when we stopped on the bank, my youngest brother was still on the edge of the creek, on the ice. We yelled at him to grab the tree. It was lying in the water within his reach. He grabbed the tip of the spruce tree and we shouted at him to hold tight. We pulled the tree, slipping on the snow, praying he wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let go. As we pulled the tree onto the bank my sister dropped it and ran to the edge of the creek. She reached my youngest brother and we pulled him onto the snowy bank. He was soaked from head to toe.

about hanging Christmas decorations on the fine spruce branches. Glittery ornaments and tons of silver tinsel made it a spectacular tree. When we were done, our brother peeked out the window and nodded his head in approval. We went to bed tired, but safe and full of excitement about the next day. We sprinted out from our wall tent the next morning heading for the cabin. We ran up onto the porch and there was our Christmas tree. The wind had blown it off the porch and out into the field, scattering decorations over the snow. It was a sight to behold. Anonymous

We knew we had to get him back to the cabin as fast as possible. We had read stories about people lost and freezing to death in the bush. My sister lifted him up and tucked him against her jacket. She looked at us briefly and then started up the bank in the direction of the cabin. My older brother and I fell into line behind her, dragging the Christmas tree. We arrived at the cabin cold and tired, and scared. Our brother had stopped shaking and was quiet, his eyes closed. We banged on the door and my sister and brother fell through it into the cabin when our Mom opened it. My older brother and I stood on the porch, hanging onto the Christmas tree. After a few minutes we opened the cabin door and shuffled in leaving the tree outside. Our Mom had our brother bundled up by the wood stove with a steaming cup of tea. My sister was rubbing his feet and telling the fateful story to our Mom and Dad. After my older brother and I warmed up we went back outside and propped up our Christmas tree on the end of the porch. Once we had it secured we set Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

A CANADIAN LEGEND

Part 10, by Leanne Laberge

(Continued from Whispering Winds Autumn 2008 Edition)

e have arrived to a cold log house in mid February 1954. As the front door swings open I feel like I have stepped back in time. Plank floors, windows so low from the floor from being re-laid over and over again that the kids are the only ones who can look out of them comfortably, and a big old cook stove in the center of it all. I was home at last. Out side there is a hitching post attached to the big old covered stoop and a cold storage box sticking out of the window of the old pantry leanto. “Ouch!” Leanne yells. Apparently, learning the contents of the storage box was just too much for a seven year old to resist. “There was a cute little mousie in there Mama, but he bit me.” “Well my girl, you’ll soon discover that there are many things in the country that will bite you. You will have to start being more careful of your brothers and yourself.” As I finished talking she nodded and looked around at the rolling fields, the meandering stream and the great crop of trees with covered the hillsides on each side of our valley ranch. “This is all ours eh Mama?” Tom and the little ones had now joined us. “Yes me girl, ours to make what we will of.” Tom’s arm circled my waist as we and the kids set out to explore the land. The past year has been very busy. My son Daniel Guy was born in June just as Tom completed pulling down the old barn. Memories of my poor lost brother George caused me to pester Tom until he relented. A fast flowing stream and four small children was enough to worry about. After Danny’s birth Tom received a letter from the solicitors with 62

regards to our holdings -or the lack of them- in Kelowna. The second night of his absence the kids came running into my room saying a lady was screaming outside. I listened and as the wind changed caught the threads of a cry that I knew very well. “Up the stairs to the attic room!” I yelled and without question six little feet flew up the steps. I grabbed the baby and an oil lamp and followed. Once upstairs I lowered the door which closed the attic off. The Cougar circled and screamed and waited. We all lay down on the stored winter clothing and finally fell asleep. By morning the Cougar was gone. The only sign that remained was the clawing and gnawing marks on the front door. The kids had their first demonstration of how the beautiful woods and their inhabitants demanded respect. They also had one heck of a story to tell their Daddy when he got back. Tom had read that clay soil could be had more pores by adding sawdust to it. He traded four loads of sawdust to a mill worker for a small parcel of land about a mile downstream. So now we have close neighbours. We have chosen a half acre on the plateau near the main road to be our garden. Tom was out working the garden soil one afternoon when he was interrupted by a soft voice from the road. “Some people have a funny way of planting trees.” The tiny

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The WAR YEARS (CONTINUED) lady Indian lady said smiling. Tom laughed. “Wait here…will you please? My wife will want to meet you.” Tom came running in, “Lee, follow me.” He headed back out the door. Having not seen him this enthusiastic for quite sometime, I grabbed Danny and sped after him. Upon reaching the plateau I almost fainted, for there on the roadway stood my Kokum , smiling, and anticipating my arrival. “Hello,” the lady said, “ in a slow and deliberate tone, “my name is Mrs. Archie…. Mrs. Eliza Archie. I am from Cannon Lake.” I was still too stunned to answer. “How did you get all this way?” Tom asked, “Cannon Lake is 26 miles from here.” “I walk.” Eliza answered in a matter of fact manner. She was still looking at me and the baby. “Little.” She stated, and smiled again. “I am Leona, Lee.” I said having finally found my voice, “Do you have time for a cup of tea?” Eliza looked down towards the house, “Tea…good….I come.” As we walked towards the house I kept wanting to touch her to see if she was real. I looked back at Tom, still standing in the garden patch looking very pleased with himself, I hadn’t been so happy in years. Eliza stayed for three days. She took us out to find wild mushrooms, showed us the best fishing spots and showed us where the wild onions would appear next spring. She has shown me a great patch of wild low bush blueberries which although tiny, they make the best pies and jam you’ve ever tasted. It is amazing; there are Saskatoon berries, Raspberries by the old sawmills and wild gooseberries along the stream. The millions of wild strawberries cause both our backs and eyes to ache, but they and their roots are harvested with care. We went hunting grouse and she promised that she would show us where to set the rabbit snares come winter. She darned socks and told stories and my daughter fell as much in love with her as I am. Christmas has become quite the ritual around here. Tom hitches the big Clydesdale, Babe, to the stone boat turned sled. We got Babe very cheaply because she was too big to pair. We have used her doing logging on the south slope and she has sure earned her keep. We all go for a sled ride around to the neighbours, we just wave, jingle our bells and head on home. Tom and the kids have created a nice toboggan run in front of the house and they all ride until there are chilly. When they come in I have the hot chocolate and Christmas pie ready. The smell of Christmas is wonderful. Over the next five years both our ranch and the country around us has changed. Whispering Winds Winter 2008/2009

We have discovered several Métis families had moved to the northern interior after the war: The Houseman’s –old man Houseman is 90+ and still riding tall in the saddle from ranch to ranch. The Leask family Jim and Milly and their kids are just down the road from us and love to play cards, as are the Lucifer’s and the Lafontaine’s. My boys play with their boys and Leanne baby sits for them

on occasion.

We now have sheep, cattle, hogs, horses, chickens, ducks, turkeys and geese. We have four fields in alfalfa and two in oats. We have built a good sturdy barn and a new house with the root cellar dug into the hill beneath it. I have canned both deer and moose meat, shot on our own acreage, as well as canning vegetables. For our garden produces so many bags of potatoes, carrots, turnips and beets each year that the root cellar with it’s winter ice blocks keeps them and my bottled Root Beer cool and fresh year round. Travelers’ bring Apples and Peaches from the Okanagan. We store the Apples, but no longer get the Peaches because it turn out our James is allergic to them and had to be taken to Kamloops Hospital. He was in an Oxygen tent for days. I have learned to make both Hog Head Cheese and Pork Sausages; though I do hate the sight of that head bubbling away in the pot. Tom used a syringe and a solution to cure the Bacon this year; it will be a nice treat. We had thought that the root cellar was secure, but apparently not. Our old sow, Maggie, got into it and ate not only many of the vegetables, but most of her offspring in the form of sausages, and bacon.

icy river last winter. They hunt on their own now. Even the youngest has a twenty-two rifle. They snare and hunt in winter and poach off of our own land out of season. They are all great fishermen and love to swim. As does Leanne, although as she approaches her teens she is much less interested in the ranch and more interested in her friends from school and boys. She is very good in her classes and has skipped a year which has caused her to be going into grade nine at 13 years of age. She and her brothers fight incessantly, and I’m sure that it doesn’t help things that Tom has addressed her and the boys as simply ‘the boys’ all her young life. I don’t wear make-up or the like and I know she wants to be though of as a girl, not just as a ranch hand. She has taken to riding her old sorrel Molly out and about at all hours and we are getting concerned. It is summer of 1961 and our concerns have been substantiated in the form of a bouncing baby boy. Leanne has named him Brad. She will not say much about his father, other than to say he is Métis and that to marry him would be just following one mistake with another. Brad is a wonderful little boy and we love him dearly. Tom takes him out to feed the cattle every morning, his little cheeks as rosy with cold and his eyes gather and savor all there is around him. A house can never be too filled with love. For his first Christmas his uncle Marcus has made him a pair of tiny moccasins……..Merry Christmas to you dear reader, and to all the ones you love.

Shortly afterwards she got into my summer kitchen and ate all the hot bread dough right out of the pans. What a PIG! I chased her with a hoe, but Tom stopped me from killing her, and I was just mad enough to do it, I swear. Eliza has become such a part of our family that we hate to see her leave when she announces, “I have tea then I go.” She will not ride in a car and she trusts very few people, so we are a very lucky family indeed. She has taught us so much about this country and its history, as well as the history of her people, the Interior Salish. Tom is on the 100 Mile House School Board now and is trying to talk the community into building a hospital. There is only one doctor in town and Tom feels that as we approach the 1960’s we must be better prepared for more settlers to follow, he also realizes just how close we came to losing our James. My boys are growing strong and healthy. Marcus was recently awarded a plaque by the RCMP at a red-coated sit down dinner for saving the life of a young neighbour boy from the 64

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Recipes from a Northern Trap Line By Kim Hodgson

Trap line cooking is an adventure; gathering meat, berries and fish from the bush, preparing it, and making a meal fit for the table. Cooking over an open fire, air tight heaters or a sheep cook stove (a collapsible metal stove used to pack into sheep hunting camp), is a challenge. However, the satisfaction of sitting down to a meal harvested from the land and cooked with loving attention, warms the soul and makes one feel forever grateful to the mother earth.

Stuffed Moose Heart

Roast Beaver

1 Moose Heart 1cup bread crumbs ½ tsp salt ¼ tsp pepper 1 tbsp dried onion ½ tsp dried dredging Butter or drippings

1 Beaver skinned and cleaned ½ cup vinegar 1 tbsp salt 1 med. Onion or dried onion 4 strips bacon or salt pork ½ tsp salt ¼ tsp pepper

Clean fresh moose heart, soak overnight in salted water, then drain. Mix stuffing ingredients, and stuff the heart cavities with the mixture. Dredge heart in flour, salt and pepper. Place in roaster pan, dot with butter Or drippings cover and bake at 325 degrees for 3 hours, or until done, Basting occasionally.

Wash beaver thoroughly. Then cover with cold water, 1 tbsp salt and ½ cup Vinegar and soak overnight. The next day rinse beaver, cover with water and Simmer fro 10 min. Drain, put in roasting pan. Cover with sliced onions, bacon, salt and pepper. Cover and bake at 375 degrees until tender. Serve with high bush cranberry jelly.

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Fried Trout

Snowshoe Hare and Dumplings

Fillets of Lake Trout ½ cup flour ½ cup cornmeal ½ tsp salt ¼ tsp pepper ½ cup milk ½ cup shortening Clean fish and cut into serving sizes. Dip fish into seasoned flour and cornmeal, Then into milk and then flour mix. Fry in hot shortening until brown, turn and brown the other side, don’t overcook. Nothing beats a cast iron frying pan for cooking fish.

2 Snowshoe Hare 1 tsp salt2 cups diced potatoes 2 cup diced carrots 1 medium onion, chopped 1 tbsp dried parsley 1 tsp salt ¼ tsp pepper 3 tbsp flour ¾ cup cold water Dumplings: 1 cup flour 2 tsp baking powder ½ tsp salt 1 egg ½ cup milk

Skin and clean hare, wash and cut into serving pieces. Put into pan and cover with cold water and salt. Bring to a boil, then cook on low heat for 1 hour or until meat is tender. Strain broth, cut the meat from the bones and return to the broth. Add the diced vegetables and seasonings, simmer until vegetables are tender. Mix flour with water into paste and add slowly to the broth to make gravy. Sift flour with baking powder and salt. Sift flour with baking powder and salt. Beat egg lightly and add milk, add to dry ingredients just enough to moisten. Drop by spoonfuls on top of the stew. Cover with heavy lid and cook for 20 minutes.

Roast Grouse 2 grouse 1 tbsp vinegar 1 tsp salt 4 tbsp melted butter 2 cups fie bread crumbs 1 tbsp butter ½ tsp salt ¼ tsp pepper Skin and clean grouse, wash and soak for a few hours in cold water with 1 tbsp vinegar and 1 tsp salt. Drain grouse and dry. Combine stuffing ingredients and stuff cavities of grouse. Place in roaster, dot with butter, sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake covered at 350 degrees for 1 hour, or until grouse is tender. Serve with homemade cranberry sauce.

Baked Beans 1 pound navy or pea beans 1 large onion sliced ¼ cup vinegar ½ cup ketchup ½ cup molasses 4 tbsp Demerara sugar 2 tsp salt ¼ pepper ¼ tsp dry mustard ½ pound salt pork, diced Wash beans thoroughly, and then drain. Cover with water and soak overnight. In the morning add 1 tsp salt and simmer over low heat until tender, about 1

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hour. Add remaining ingredients bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Cover and bake in a 300 degrees oven, for 8 hours. Add more liquid if necessary. A cast iron Dutch oven is the best for beans. The Dutch oven can go on top of the heater, if you don’t have an oven. Beaver meat instead of pork is great in beans. Dice the meat and simmer until done, and then add to the beans.

½ cup sugar 2 cups flour 2 ½ tsp baking powder ¼ tsp salt 1 egg ½ cup milk ¼ cup melted shortening 1 pint huckleberries Crumb Topping: ½ cup sugar 1/3 cup flour ¼ cup butter ½ tsp cinnamon

Stemed Brown Bread 2 cups whole wheat flour 1 cup cornmeal 1 tsp salt 1 tsp soda 1 cup seedless raisins 2 tbsp grated orange rind 2 cups butter milk or milk with 1 tbsp vinegar added ¾ cup molasses

Wash, dry and grease well, three 20 oz. cans. Combine flour, corneal, salt and soda in a bowl. Combine buttermilk and molasses and add to dry ingredients all at once along with orange rind and raisins. Stir ingredients just to moisten. Spoon into cans. Cover each can with aluminum foil. Set cans on a rack in a kettle of boiling water (water should be no more than half way up cans). Cover tightly and steam 2 hours, or until top springs back. Remove, loosen from cans and let cool on racks. Wrap foil to store. This bread goes well with the Baked Beans and is handy if you do not have an oven in camp.

Huckleberry Buckle

Sift together sugar, flour, baking powder and salt. Beat the egg and the milk and melted shortening and blend well. Make a well in the flour mixture and add the liquid ingredients all at once. Stir quickly until flour mixture is moistened. Pour into a shallow baking dish, 13” x 9”. Cover with huckleberries and top with the crumb mixture. Bake at 350 degrees for 40 minutes. This recipe works with blueberries or Saskatoons, and can be baked on top of air tight heater in a cast iron fry pan with a heavy lid

Rose Hip Syrup 4 cups rose hip fruit 2 cups water 2 cups sugar

Wash rose hips, remove stems and flower remnants. Boil rose hips in water for 20 minutes in a covered saucepan. Stain through a jelly bag. Return the juice to saucepan, add the sugar and boil for 5 minutes. Store in jars in a cool place; this syrup keeps very well. Rose hips are good for drying. Split the fruit and remove the seeds, lay fruit on cookie sheets or pieces of board. On a sunny day dry the rose hips outside, or dry above the air tight heater. When completely dry, store in a container. Dried rose hips can be used as raisins or steeped for tea. They are very high in vitamin C.

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Labrador Tea

Labrador Tea also known in Cree as “Medicine Tea” is a shrubby plant that grows in muskeg areas all across Canada. The leaves can be used fresh or dried and stored in a container. The leaves can be steeped for tea and has many healing qualities. Labrador is good to harvest in the fall and use occasionally throughout the winter.

Just in Time for Gift Giving

for your favourite Métis person!

Old Fashioned Christmas Cake from Leanne Laberge Collection

1 9-inch pie crust 2 eggs 1 cup mashed cooked turnips and1 cup mashed cooked carrots 3/4 cup sugar 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ginger 1/4 teaspoon cloves 1 2/3 cups evaporated milk Heat oven to 425 degrees. Prepare pastry. Beat egg(s) slightly with rotary beater; beat in remaining ingredients. Pour into pastry-lined pie pan. (To prevent spills, place pie pan on cookie sheet.) Bake 15 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 350 degrees. Bake 45 minutes longer or until knife inserted in center comes out clean. Cool. If desired, serve with sweetened whipped cream.

Hogs Head Cheese

from Leanne Laberge Collection

Christmas is a time to enjoy the company of our family and friends. From my family to you and your family, our best wishes for a safe and happy holiday season. May the coming year be filled with good health, contentment and

prosperity.

1 lg. hog head 11/2 tbsp salt Dash of black pepper 1 onion 1c. Vinegar

Merry Christmas and

Happy New Year

Clean hog head by removing ears and brains. Put in large pot and boil until tender. Remove meat from broth. Pick out bones and cook onion until done in broth. Dip out onion and run meat and onion through meat grinder. Mix in pepper, vinegar and salt, put in cheesecloth, hang, let drip over night. Slice and enjoy. Refrigerate unused portion.

RICHARD NEUFELD MLA Peace River North Minister of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources Tel: (250) 263-0101 Toll Free 1-866-263-0101 10104 - 100th Street, Fort St John, BC V1J 3Y7

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The Voyageur Family” by Dennis Weber, Kelowna, BC

The “Secret” is Coming Soon

“The Secret of Your Name” Proud to be Métis

David Bouchard/Dennis Weber, artist and “Master of the Metis Fiddle” JOHN ARCAND Award -winning Author David Bouchard along with Métis artist, Dennis Weber and Master Métis Fiddler, John Arcand have joined forces to produce an incredible book to be launched Spring 2009, This delightful children’s book,with a CD featuring John Arcand, has been written for all ages. Be the first to own this best seller! Canada’s Métis are the only mixed blood people in the world recognized by every level of government as being a nation. We Métis have our own language, flag, songs and stories. We have exciting traditions and a proud history. Unfortunately, a large percentage of Métis have grown up in the aftermath of the resistance of 1885, an event often referred to in Canada as the North West Rebellion. This event was the beginning of a sad period in Canadian history when Métis people, much like our First Nation cousins, were manipulated and deceived and finally robbed of our land, our pride and much 70

of our culture. Many Métis began denying Native ties in favour of acceptable European bloodlines. Many of our grandparents were beaten down and humiliated until they came to deny their own bloodlines. They did whatever they could to appear white. My own grandfather, born and raised Narcisse Beaudoin, died Nelson Bowdwin. Today, many Métis are seeking out the names of their grandmothers and grandfathers. Because European explorers and adventurers were usually men who took Native or country wives, we often speak of our grandmothers as

being Native and our grandfathers as being European. This, however, is not always the case. I am one whose grandmothers were Anishnabe, Ojibwe Menominee and Innu. I am one of many stepping forward to say that I am proud to be of mixed blood; I am Proud to be Métis. This book is for the many who live my story. And this is for our grandmothers, our Kokums.

by David Bouchard, author

W a t c h w w w . k i w e t i n . c o m Whispering f o r tWinds h e Winter b o o2008/2009 k launch date!

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May

you touch the earth with kind and gentle hands,

May freedom be found in this and other lands, May joyous peace reign throughout the world. Peace and Goodwill to you and yours from

Mayor and Council of the City of Dawson Creek.

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