Senk'lip News September 2019

SENK’LIP NEWS

OKANAGAN INDIAN BAND 12420 Westside Road Vernon BC V1H 2A4

September 2019

OKIB Sues Feds Over Water Situation The Okanagan Indian Band (OKIB) took the extraordinary step of filing a suit in Federal Court August 15 against the federal government over its failure to ensure the safety of drinking water.

The action revolves around drinking water systems constructed since the 1970’s according to standards specified by Indian Affairs Canada. The water systems rely on groundwater wells that supply untreated water to hundreds of homes. The wastewater from those homes goes to individual septic fields which may be contaminating groundwater.

“The federal government has put the lives of our people at risk,” said Chief Byron Louis.

“We are stuck in limbo between federal policy that underfunds our system and provincial infrastructure resources we cannot access. The federal government is simply not serious about safe drinking water for First Nations communities.”

An expert assessment commissioned by the federal government in 2010 ranked OKIB drinking water systems an 8 out of 10 on a scale of potential risk to human health. To date, only one of those systems has seen significant upgrades.

A joint water management study from 2017 estimated the cost of upgrades at $45 million. At present the largest drinking water system at OKIB is under a do not consume order. OKIB has worked with Ottawa

Connect with OKIB today!

Find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube. Search /okanaganband

to find a solution – specifically improvements to the systems to ensure the safety of drinking water.

After nine years of determined and good faith efforts on the part of the OKIB, the federal government has made upgrades to only one of seven systems. OKIB felt no option was left, apart from legal action.

“We have to act,” said Chief Byron. “We are concerned that it will take a crisis like a death or sickness from contamination before the federal government takes any action – other than constant delay. This is unacceptable in a developed country.

“It’s really an issue of equality – if you can turn on the tap in Vernon and assume the water is safe, it should be the same in our community.”

The suit simply asks for confirmation that First Nations have the same access to safe drinking water as other Canadians. That would compel the federal government to ensure water infrastructure that meets safety standards – with a timeline.

All OKIB members should be aware that the current water quality across IR#1 has not changed and that this action is meant to call Canada to account for its failures to safeguard our water systems from future contamination concerns.

Any questions or concerns should be sent to Michael Fotheringham, Manager of Policy and Strategy at michael.fotheringham@okanagan.org

Visit our website & register to access member-only content at www.okib.ca

OKIB Policies and Bylaws OKIB Cannabis Member Feedback July/August 2019 1) What are your overall feelings about Cannabis shops on reserve? (Circle the one that most suits your point of view): I’m fine with how the Cannabis shops are currently operating on reserve I’d like to see more requirements of where these shops can operate and the need for security checks for staff (for example) We should require provincial licensing of dispensaries on reserve in order to ensure a safe supply of cannabis I don’t like these shops on reserve TOTAL

25.80% 22.58%

16 14

32.25%

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20.00%

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2) Of the major themes that are at play in this issue, what ones are most important to you?

(Circle all that apply): Safety for residents (for consumers of cannabis in terms of supply and in terms of the types of dispensary operators active in the community) Opportunities for entrepreneurship amongst members Reputation and Fairness– desire for some order in terms of appearance on reserve and administering licenses Legal Risks if we proceed without provincial/federal license regime Exercising autonomy and sovereignty over OKIB lands

54.76%

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26.19% 38.10%

16 28

35.71% 40.48%

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3) Despite some potential legal risks, are you happy for OKIB to make our own laws to regulate cannabis on reserve (these laws would not explicitly require provincial licensing)?

Yes, let’s exercise our sovereignty on this issue and create our own law Maybe, we should follow the best advice of the lawyers No, the lack of safe supply and legal risks are too much of a risk to the community TOTAL

53.44% 10.34% 36.20%

31 6 21 58

4) Please share any thoughts you have on this issue.

The responses to this question were varied but overall it was a mix of members wanting to see more safety. There were concerns that the benefits needed to be felt by members more than off-reserve people. There were doubts whether OKIB had the manpower to enforce a bylaw properly.

NEXT STEPS: Likely another community forum to discuss a draft bylaw where the need for provincial licensing would be the sole responsibility of the dispensary operators. A plan for enforcement needs to be developed.

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OKIB Employee Highlight The Human Resources Department would like to announce some of our recent hires. Please join me in welcoming them to OKIB: Ashley Gregoire – Cultural Immersion School, Language and Culture Assistant Alicia Marchand, Angela Miller and Kristen Mitchell – Cultural Immersion School, Education Assistants

Jeff Van Ryckeghem – Public Works and Housing, Project Manager Jami Tonasket – Community Safety Coordinator Dylan Wilson and Ethan Joe – On-Call Fire Fighters Sylvia Altwasser – HR Manager

Two Paddling Opportunities for Youth OKIB Youth Ages 8 – 12 years’ old who are interested in some paddling please attend this fun filled day.

Please come register at 10:00am - Komasket

Saturday September 14th 2019 CANOEING

White-water Rafting For OKIB Youth Ages: 12 – 18 years’ old

Saturday September 7, 2019 Limited spots available. Must register.

For more information and to register please contact:

Ciaran McDonagh

Phone: 250-542-5094 Ext. 208

Email: Ciaran.mcdonagh@okanagan.org September 2019

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Syilx Nation Recognition Agreement Community Discussions POSTPONED, Pending Outcome of Federal Election At the direction of the Chiefs, the Recognition Agreement was negotiated to protect and advance the Syilx Nation’s collective Title and Rights, with nothing ceded or lost. It was not about reorganizing governance within the limitations of a non-profit society. It’s been designed to empower and engage Syilx Nation members to work together to rebuild a unified Syilx Nation government guided by our laws and responsibilities.

This agreement would require the federal government to make a commitment of many millions of dollars annually to support the Syilx Nation’s work to develop and implement Syilx Nation governance. Even though the agreement had been approved in principle by Cabinet, the federal government has informed our negotiators that it has run out of time to NATION LEVEL FORUMS ON

get the necessary Finance approvals required for this agreement to be signed before the fall election.

This is a setback. However, depending on the results of the federal election, negotiations may resume on this Syilx Nation Recognition Agreement.

We would like to take this opportunity to express our appreciation and gratitude to all of the Syilx Nation members who have contributed to this process to date. In the meantime, Nation rebuilding work will continue through the community-led Syilx Nation Rising process. lim'lempt Grand and Chief Stewart Phillip, Chair

SYD ILX

ED N O P N A T I Oe N POST m o c t u o g RECOGNITION n n pendi o i t c e l le a r e d e of f IMPORTANT DISCUSSION FOR ALL SYILX NATION MEMBERS Friday, August 16, 10:30am–2pm Four Points Sheraton, Kelowna Tuesday, August 20, 10am–3pm Penticton Lakeside, Penticton Monday, August 26, 10am–3pm Merritt Civic Centre, Merritt

ED N O P POST

Please join to learn more, ask questions and share your voice!

Upholding their mandate to protect and advance Syilx People’s Title and Rights, the Chiefs Executive Council has been negotiating with Canada at a Recognition of Indigenous Rights and Self-Determination table. We know who we are. Through this process, the government of Canada can finally and formally tell itself to recognize the Syilx People and our Syilx Nation. This is a much more effective path than continually fighting for our rights in costly endless court cases. This is a not a treaty. It is not a land claim settlement. It does not set up a municipal level government. It has nothing to do with a corporation. This is an unprecedented opportunity to take control of our future now as a Nation. Come share your voice and contribute to our collective vision of self determination.

Local discussions are also being organized by Chiefs and Councils in each community.

For Nation forum info, please contact Charlotte Armstrong: carmstrong@syilx.org | 250.707.0095 x208

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Family is Community: An OKIB Parents and Family Event Rattle Making September 12, from 5 to 8 p.m.

Blue Bird / Golden Eagle Building Mothers, Fathers, Grandparents, Community Members and all family members are welcome to this community event. All supplies for rattles, and a light dinner, to be provided.

Join in a community program series that connects and supports healthy families! Max 15 participants.

For more information, and to enroll, contact: Amber Froste, CHN at 250-542-5094 email: okibnurse@okanagan.org

Or Danielle Saddleman at 250-503-5593 email: Iclead@okanagan.org

The Indigenous Artisan’s Trail Seeks Artists Calling All Indigenous Artists: The Indigenous Artisan’s Trail (IArT) is a non-profit program run by First Nations, for First Nations.

• Travel to festivals, farmer’s markets and other events all over our massive region up to 5 days per week to sell your art.

We want to help you sell your art! Whether it be music, carving, beading, sewing, painting, tinctures, weaving, looming, inner cedar creations—you name it. We have a modular trailer that we’ve set up to be a mobile retailer for your authentic art. There’s plenty of demand for art just like yours, and we want to help you make an income from it.

• Keep customers up-to-date on the trailer’s whereabouts.

Here’s what we’ll do: • Provide the initial capital investment (the trailer) • All of the marketing work (create a brand, post on social media, create and maintain a website, hand out promotional materials, etc.)

Tourism in the Thompson Okanagan is growing, and the drive for our unique cultural experience is growing with it. We believe that this new initiative will help all First Nations communities in the Thompson Okanagan generate a higher economic standing which they can choose to invest in their children, themselves, or however they please.

Want to learn more? Call (778)-721-5519 or text 604-966-1330 or email tota.indigenous@gmail.com

• Tell YOUR story to the public with your name and artwork showcased.

September 2019

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August 2019 Update

Company Strategy At the OKIB Group of Companies Annual General Meeting the strategy was presented to the community. A video is available on the Okanagan Indian Band’s Official Facebook page. We have set up our operating companies, completing our corporate structuring. We are prepared to start bidding on projects in the Okanagan Territory to start generating cash flows.

Land Designation At a special Council meeting to review the Group of Company’s strategy held on August 2nd. Recommendations were accepted to initiate a commercial designation and set up a commercial Headlease under the OKIB Assets LP of the Band land on Duck Lake IR No.7 Lot 1, 13 and 14. These lands are prime for commercial and industrial development.

OKIB Management Services LP is preparing a designation information package which will be available and sent out shortly. Additional information to come on this project as it develops.

Indigenous Services Canada has accepted the designation BCR and the process is underway.

Watch for further details, community meetings and get ready to vote!

Economic Development Plan The Band Council approved the Governance and Fiscal Agreement (GFA) early this year, this agreement provides a mandate to establish an Economic Development Committee

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(EDC). The EDC is mandated to update the Community Economic Development Plan, the last plan available was drafted. An RFP was sent out and six submissions were received.

The plan is to complete the research and draft a plan in three phases.

Phase 1 - will involve data collection from community members to get an understanding of the wants and desires of the majority of OKIB members for economic development.

Fall 2019 Phase 2 - the findings from the data collected in Phase 1 will be presented to the committee.

Further research will be collected to define the areas of interest and desired outcomes. Winter 2019 Phase 3 - draft the Community Economic Development Plan which will include actions, roles and responsibilities, implementation and evaluation plan. Spring 2019 We will be using the One Feather application for surveys. Please check out their website https://onefeather.ca/ and watch for instructions to register! One Feather is used for community engagement, surveys, elections and referendums. Since it is used for elections and referendums, One Feather has an advanced security system to protect data. The moderator will only be able to see if a person voted, not how they voted. The benefit of One Feather is only Band members will be able to vote on the surveys.

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September 2019

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You’re invited!

Health Benefits Information Session The First Nations Health Authority listened to First Nations communities across BC to design a new benefits plan. Learn about improvements to the following benefits coming in fall 2019.

Vision care and eyeglasses Dental coverage Medical supplies & equipment SEPTEMBER 9, 2019 | TIME 5:00PM – 9:00PM WHERE: HOLIDAY PARK RESORT, KELOWNA EVENT DETAILS: THE PRESENTATION WILL TAKE PLACE DURING THE MEMBERSHIP FORUM. Contact Council Secretary, Stacy Yow, at 250-542-4328 or stacy.yow@okanagan.org for more information.

See you there!

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YOUR NEW FIRST NATIONS HEALTH BENEFITS PROGRAM: Dental, Vision and Medical Supplies & Equipment (MS&E) The First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) engaged with First Nations communities and health care providers across the province to learn how we can improve dental, vision and MS&E benefits to support the wellness journey of First Nations people in BC.

PLAN HIGHLIGHTS Higher limits and no pre-approval needed for routine eye exams and eyewear Dental fee guide in line with BC industry standards

YOUR NEW PLAN

Faster pre-approval decisions for MS&E, vision and dental special needs

launching Sept. 16, 2019

Pay-direct claims at most dental offices and participating optical stores

FNHA has partnered with non-profit, BCbased health benefits organization Pacific Blue Cross to administer dental, vision and MS&E benefits.

Online and mobile app claims Reimbursement in as little as 48 hours for claims paid out of pocket Ability to check your coverage and limits online 24/7

Questions? Your local FNHA Health Benefits Community Relations Representative would be happy to help you.

FRASER-SALISH REGION

INTERIOR REGION

NORTHERN REGION

VANCOUVER COASTAL REGION

VANCOUVER ISLAND REGION

James Delorme James.Delorme@fnha.ca 778-684-1886

Joyce Kenoras Joyce.Kenoras@fnha.ca 250-318-6634

Lindsey Larsen Lindsey.Larsen@fnha.ca 250-645-3026

Jenny Smith Jennifer.Smith@fnha.ca 604-693-6588

Candy-Lea Chickite Candy-Lea.Chickite@fnha.ca 250-830-7346

The FNHA provides other benefits to meet health needs not covered by provincial or third-party health insurance. These include medical transportation, mental health support, and pharmacy benefits through BC PharmaCare Plan W.

Learn more about your FNHA benefits at: www.fnha.ca/benefits ENGAGE WITH US ON SOCIAL MEDIA OR CALL US AT:



September 2019

• 1.855.550.5454

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Nelson Mural Festival Features OKIB Artist The Nelson and District Arts Council (NDAC) hosted the second annual Nelson International Mural Festival August 16 to 18, and the festival featured art from an OKIB member.

The goal of the festival is to increase the cultural vibrancy of Nelson by engaging local, national and international street artists, muralists, creators and arts lovers through large scale public artworks and educational opportunities. The festival featured many local and regional artists, including OKIB artist Sheldon Pierre Louis.

The festival is an inclusive event intended for all cultures, genders, ages and abilities.

The goal is to shine a light on local cultures and histories, encouraging collaboration and community building. The festival events all took place in public spaces, free of charge.

Sheldon created the mural depicted here. The mural is based on the captikwl of “How Senklip Brought N’tyxtix to the People.” Sheldon is a multi-disciplinary Sqilxw artist. His ancestral roots have influenced his works in painting, drawing, carving, and sculpting.

OKIB member Sheldon Pierre Louis created the mural at left while Kevin Ledo created the mural on the right. Photo by Bill Metcalfe.

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Back To School Barbecue and Outdoor Movie a Huge SUCCESS!!

Going back to school can be a stressful and challenging time for both parents and students alike. The education department recognizes this and as a way of alleviating some of the pressures a Back to School Barbecue was organized and held on August 14. We had

approximately 50 OKIB students attend along with their parent. Door prizes, barbecue and an outdoor movie was enjoyed by all who came out. A big thanks goes out to staff, volunteers, parents and students who came and shared in the event.

OKIB Language Nest Open Houses The Language Nest will be hosting a series of open houses where you are invited to come out and learn about our program. We are located at 11 Victoria Road (6 Mile area).

September 5 - 9 to 11 a.m. and 5 to 7 p.m.

September 18 - 9 to 11 a.m. and 5 to 7 p.m.

For more information please contact us at the Nest at 250-503-5593. Hope to see you there.

September 2019

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Welcome Back We have had a great summer at Snc’c’amala?tn and are preparing for September with children coming and going. Welcome to all of the children and families who are attending this year. We are committed to providing quality early learning and childcare for all children.

Our program encourages independence, respect for others and confidence. Come for a tour, we would love to share our special place of learning!

I want to thank and commend our summer staff for their hard work and dedication over the warm summer months. Welcome back to the staff who are returning after being away over the summer.

From the Manager, Lorraine Ladan

Summer Day Camp for 6 to 12 Year Olds We had wonderful students working in the Summer Day Camp and hope they had a positive and valuable work experience. Thank you to Billie-Rae Oppenheimer, Autumn Wilson, Lilah Jack, Qaine Parker and Yetko Robins.

Way lim limpt, Supervisor Autumn Marchand

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$10 / day Universal Child Care Prototype – IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR PARENTS Just a reminder to parents that at the end of the 18 months of being a $10 / day Universal Child Care Prototype, that parent fees will not likely continue to be $10 / day and will be increasing back to the regular rate. Our Agreement with the BC Provincial Government ends March 21, 2020.

I encourage you to please make your thoughts known to the Provincial Government on how paying a maximum of $10 / day for daycare has helped your family (some families pay even less and may be receiving the Affordable Child Care Benefit, which used to be called Subsidy).

It is only by hearing from you and letting the Government know that this is something you want to see continue, that it will.

For further information and to give your feedback, please contact: Phone: 1 888 338-6622 (option 5) Email: MCF.Prototype@gov.bc.ca

First Day of School

Closures

Back to school is Tuesday, September 3. We welcome all of our returning and new children.

School will be dismissed at NOON.

Monday, September 23 – Staff Professional Development Day

Grade 1 students will be at the Cultural Immersion School this year.

September 2019

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Facilities Update We are still having work done to beautify our playground for the children but are making progress, thanks to Public Works.

In the past year we have had new play structures installed in both playgrounds, which are being well used by the children.

We are still dealing with new sprouts showing up from the cottonwood trees that were removed, but it seems like we may finally be winning the battle. We will be getting some new trees for shade as well as some shade structures.

Unfortunately, the compacted gravel bike paths have not worked out so well and we will be looking at some other form of path. We are hoping to have pour-in-place rubber installed under the play equipment instead of the wood chips. This will increase the safety and give better protection when falls occur.

New sod will be laid at some point and this will make everything cleaner and greener.

We look forward to these improvements and are thankful for the Quality Improvement Grant that we received from the Province for participating as a $10 / day Universal Child Care Prototype.

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September 2019

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$24.3 Million for New Wastewater Recovery System Benefits Environment, Economy, and Agriculture in North Okanagan The environment, economy and agriculture in the North Okanagan’s Swan Lake area received a major boost with the announcement of a $24.3 million grant from the Investing in Canada infrastructure plan for construction of the North Okanagan Wastewater Recovery System. The Government of Canada contributed $13,255,148, and the Province of British Columbia contributed $11,044,852. The project will provide homes and businesses with a safe and sustainable wastewater treatment facility and sewer system that will protect Swan Lake water quality, provide reclaimed water for agriculture, enhance recreational opportunities and support economic development.

“This substantial grant makes this project a reality and will help us create the future we envision, one that balances environmental protection with economic opportunities. The Partnership has been instrumental to moving the project forward over the past four years and key to ensuring we continue to be stewards of our environment and our economy for future generations.”

The project is the result of a unique and innovative partnership formed in 2015 between the Township of Spallumcheen, the Regional District of North Okanagan and the Okanagan Indian Band. For the past four years, the Partners have been setting the foundation for the success of this project, including conducting environmental and economic impact studies and obtaining community and

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financial support. While currently planned to service portions of Electoral Areas B and C, the Township of Spallumcheen’s south-east industrial area and Okanagan Indian Band lands within the proposed service area, it will have the ability to expand to meet future growth.

The grant funding will cover approximately 66 percent of the total $36.9 million cost, with the remaining amounts to be funded by RDNO borrowing ($5.2 million), an Okanagan Basin Water Board grant ($5.9 million) and Township of Spallumcheen reserves ($1.5 million).

The next steps include design, development, tendering and construction of the facility and sewer lines over the next two to three years. The process will be aided by the continued support of the Wastewater Recovery Community Working Group of dedicated community volunteers providing local perspectives as the project moves forward.

For more information visit the project website, hosted by the RDNO on behalf of the partners at: www.rdno.ca/wastewater The North Okanagan Wastewater Recovery Project Partnership Members will be holding a public celebration event with details to be shared soon.

Check out the project backgrounder on page 19 to learn about the history of the project.

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PROJECT

backgrounder �������� �������� �� ����� ��������

What is the North Okanagan Wastewater Recovery Project?

The North Okanagan Wastewater Recovery Project is a partnership launched in 2015 by the Regional District of North Okanagan (RDNO), Township of Spallumcheen, and Okanagan Indian Band (OKIB) to improve water quality in Swan Lake and local streams and to provide economic development opportuni�es through the implementa�on of a community sewer system.

The project will provide sewer service to residents and businesses in por�ons of RDNO Electoral Areas B and C, the Township of Spallumcheen’s southeast industrial area, and parts of OKIB.

Why is it Needed Now? • • • • • •

Contaminants from sep�c systems are leaching into Swan Lake.

The leachates are nega�vely affec�ng water quality and bird habitats.

The leachates are limi�ng recrea�onal opportuni�es for the communi�es along the corridor.

Lack of community sewer limits economic growth opportuni�es.

This is one of the last developed areas of the Okanagan without a community sewer system.

Grants are available now: more than 80% of the es�mated $36.9M project could be funded by grants. (See Side B for more informa�on on project costs.)

Who are the Partners on the Project?

•

• • •

This project is the result of a unique and collabora�ve partnership between the Regional District of North Okanagan, Township of Spallumcheen, and Okanagan Indian Band.

The partnership approach has increased funding opportuni�es.

The partnership will ensure project consistency and integra�on.

It sets the stage for future collabora�ons.

September 2019

O������� I����� B���

A ����������� �������

T������� �� S�����������

2015 An innova�ve partnership between the Regional District of North Okanagan, Township of Spallumcheen and Okanagan Indian Band forms and the project launches.

Western Water Associates Ltd. conducts first water quality assessment. Finds Swan Lake is nega�vely impacted by sep�c systems.

2017 Province of BC funds $10,000 to support further project planning.

2016 Western Water Associates Ltd. recommends community sewer system a�er second assessment.

Urban Systems’ Phase 1 Feasibility Study reports the project is technically and financially viable.

RDNO Employment Lands Report shows support of sewer project; finds the project would support economic development.

2018

Urban Systems’ Phase 2 Feasibility Study refines technical elements of the project and examines funding opportuni�es.

Survey finds 76% of Local Area Plan open house respondents support the community sewer for environmental and economic reasons.

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Date: September 24 2019 ____

Time: 4-6 pm ____

Where: Health Centre Boardroom: 76 Head of Lake Rd. Vernon, BC ____

SEABIRD MOBILE DIABETES TEAM: COMMUNITY PRESENTATION Ever wonder what you, or your family members, risks are for having diabetes?

Okanagan Indian Band would like to welcome Seabird Mobile Diabetes Team to present on diabetes and the risks of getting diabetes.

An informative presentation on the risk factors, the signs/symptoms and how to screen for diabetes will be provided.

Supper Provided ____

Everyone Welcome!

Okanagan Indian Band Community Service & Development

If you feel yourself, or your family is at risk for diabetes please attend this supper/presentation.

For more information contact: Amber Froste, CHN at 250-542-5094 email: okibnurse@okanagan.org Or Rosalie Saddleman at 250-542-5094 email: rosalie.saddleman@okanagan.org

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Canadian Military on the Okanagan territory Dating back to the Early 1900’s, snapshots of the past

Lumby’s Canadian Mounted Rifles initially trained at the Vernon Military Camp.

Military Camp 1940’s Vernon BC

Glenemma Range 1960’s

Cenotaph 2016 honouring our OKIB members that have served NOTE: UXO creates a safety risk wherever it exists. Caution is ALWAYS advised

1907, a cavalry unit called the Okanagan Mounted Rifles, Mission Hill Vernon , BC

Glenemma Range 1950’s

Vernon Military Camp 1970’s

Current Day: OKIB working with DND to clear former Military fields on OKIB lands World Wars Aboriginal Veterans site: http:// av.canadiana.ca/en/ to search OKIB Members

For more information, contact Don Louis, UXO Liaison at 250-542-3444.

September 2019

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UNDERSTANDING LAWFUL POSSESSION UNDER A FRY SKETCH In understanding lawful possession to your parcel(s), you may have been issued a Certificate of Possession (CP’s) or a ‘No Evidence of Title’ (NETI) or a Notice of Entitlement (NE) because the land interest may be held under a Fry Sketch.

When land is held under an old legal description, such as a Fry Sketch, individuals may want to subdivide a parcel for land development or to transfer portions of the parcel to family members, or to have a survey plan updated to create certainty on the boundary of a parcel.

So what is a Fry Sketch? Good question. Our Lands Department has compiled the following information to give you the history and hopefully a better understanding of Fry Sketches.

The History of Fry Sketch?

Actually the term ‘Fry Sketch’ is derived from the name Alan E. Fry, who was the Assistant Superintendent for the Okanagan Agency during the 1950's and 1960's under D.M. Hett, Superintendent, Okanagan Agency in BC. Fry compiled a series of rough sketches of the Okanagan Indian Band reserve lands dated March 25, 1958. These are known as ‘Fry Sketches’. Other bands had similar sketches prepared as well by Mr. Fry. The sketches, drawn at scale, show individual land holdings and band lands, divided into Blocks and Lots. The parcels labelled Lots on the sketches are not dimensioned, and the acreages indicated were likely added later, or were estimates. The sketches were the basis of descriptions of the original allotments to band members recorded in the Indian Land Registry System (ILRS).

Mr. Fry prepared the sketches for Blocks A, B and C on Okanagan IR 1, from a combination of: aerial tracing maps, existing surveys, enlarged aerial photographs, and completed by traverse with a Brunton compass corrected to the reserve boundary.

Figure 1 - Fry Sketch 319-37 To determine what type of sketch or survey exists on your parcel of land please contact the Lands Department at 250-542-3444.

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History of Fry Sketch (cont’d) Unfortunately, Fry’s field notes and the air photos used have not been located. The sketch for Block D was signed by Mr. Barnes, also of Okanagan Agency, but for convenience, his sketch is referred to as a Fry Sketch.

Over the years, subdivisions and transfers of parts of these Fry Sketch lots were done by BCRs with attached sketches. These sketches based on the Fry sketches were often roughly dimensioned.

Figure 2 - 1950's Brunton Compass

Mr. Fry was actually not a land surveyor. The process of translating a lot on a Fry sketch to a surveyed parcel on the ground requires that the surveyor evaluate all available evidence and determine what constitutes the best evidence of the boundary location.

Boundary law has developed a hierarchy of evidence that orders boundary evidence from most compelling to least as follows: 1)

Natural Boundaries i.e. trees, large stones

2)

Original Monuments i.e. wood stakes, posts, rebar, scribed stone

3)

Evidence of Occupation that can be related back to the time of the original survey

4)

Measurements (as shown on a plan, sketch, or metes and bounds description)

5)

Areas

A surveyor will consider this hierarchy when determining the parcel locations along with the intention of the original sketch. As a result, the surveyed parcel may be a different shape and/or size than what is shown on the sketch.

One of the advantages of having the Fry sketch lots surveyed is that it removes ambiguities in the description of land, provides certainty to those that have been allotted land and makes for good neighbours.

Over the years, many of these Fry Sketch lots have been surveyed and replaced by CLSR and RSBC plans.

Update of Title/Replacement of Title When land is held under an old legal description, the individuals may want to receive evidence of title reflecting the new legal description. For example, a new survey, a subdividing survey, or a conversion from an unsurveyed (sketch) holding to a survey, may result in a request to replace title.

For more information, contact the OKIB Lands Department at 250-542-3444.

September 2019

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Massage Outreach 6-Week Programs Students from the Okanagan Valley College will be hosting Massage Programs located at the Golden Eagle Building/Bluebird Building, with no fee.

September 12 to October 17 (6 weeks) Thursdays - Group A: 8:45am- 10:00am Group B: 10:15 - 11:15am 4 spots in each group, for a total of 8 participants for this session October 24 to December 5 (6 weeks)* Thursdays - Group A: 8:00-10:00am Group B: 10:15 - 11:15am *No Massage on November 7, 2019.

5 spots in each group, for a total of 10 participants for this session How to Apply: Submit form to the Health Department (include contact information).

Forms available at CSD- Health Reception.

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If you have submitted an application form previously, you will need to submit another form to express interest in this session. Please indicate the date of your previous participation, if applicable.

This program is open for all community members to apply. If there is a high number of requests priority will be given to those with a medical need, able to commit to 6 sessions, and first time applicants.

If you commit, you must attend all sessions.

Contact Beverly Simpson or Amber Froste for more information at (250)-542-5094 or (beverly.simpson@okanagan.org)

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Important Dates for September September 3 - First day of school.

September 7 - White Water Rafting for youth 12-18 years old. Must register. See page 3.

September 9 - Health Benefits Information Session. See pages 8, 9.

September 12 - Rattle Making. Golden Eagle/Blue Bird building.

September 24 - Diabetes presentation. See page 20.

The Okanagan Elders

Elders Bingo

The elders have many fund raising activities going on throughout the year.

Last Sunday of every month.

If you have any donations for Loonie Auctions, Bingos or for their 50/50. Please contact Bonnie Lawrence at 250-542-1243.

Early Birds - 12:30 pm Bingo - 1:00 pm

All donations are very much appreciated by our elders. Please do not hesitate to give generously.

Agreement # 40015968

September 2019

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