BOO MAGA (PUMÉKE7) – FALL 2022

COUNCILOR’S MESSAGE

Weyt-kp xwexweytep, Shae Chelsea ren skwekwst (Hello everyone, my name is Shae Chelsea).

I love this time of year, because it’s not only my birthday month but the leaves start to change and the snow will fall soon. It is time for our summer to go to sleep and winter to gift us with snow. Mother Earth needs to get rest, so she can start a new cycle in Spring. This is the time to be grateful for one another, and be there for others that might not have what they need. In this unfortunate time of sickness, sadness, grief and loneliness; let us remember to hold each other up and help those families that need it. Let’s do more for our family, friends, neighbors, strangers, and those in our lives. I want to challenge all of you, that can give back, to do so. Even if it is a small amount, everything counts. Be mindful about those that do not have family or are struggling to make it.

~Trigger Warning~

I am hopeful that with fall comes new beginnings, over the past couple months our community has been struggling. Many families have lost their loved ones, and we have lost two incredible souls. Two young warriors have gone to their happy hunting grounds with their ancestors. I commend everyone who has reached out to the families in their times of grief and offered a helping hand. I am grateful to be a part of a community, that is so willing to help one another when they are in need. The love that our members give one another is uplifting and inspiring. We all need to continue helping one another and being there for those that are feeling down, sad, depressed or lost. I want everyone to know they can reach out for help when needed, whether it’s to one of the trained staff or one of us on leadership. We are here for you, even if it’s just to go have a coffee, have a visit or go for a walk. Let’s start

looking past the stigma of asking for help and start moving towards healing. Let us celebrate one another and the success’s we have no matter the size. Let’s continue to strive for the strength and courage it takes to be healthy. Find your balances; mind, body, spirit, and soul.

I have been busy in the past few months; time has been moving quickly. In August, I celebrated my second year of being on Chief and Council. These past couple years has been a whirlwind to say the least, I am still so blessed for my past and present leadership they continue to teach me things on a daily basis. I am also thankful for the sqlelten (salmon), once again we were able to fish this year down at the river. The medicines and berries we continue to gather each year and the meat we can hunt to stock our freezers for the winter.

We were also able to get out and participate in many cultural and traditional events. I was able to attend many pow wows with my family, enjoy the drums and hear the moccasins hitting Mother Earth. One of my favorite events this summer was our own Speaking the Truth Competition pow wow. I felt so much pride for our people being able to host so many magnificent dancers and singers. I was proud of our committee, lead by our own Councilor Dancing Water Sandy and that she continues to share her knowledge from the elders and her own experiences. am thankful with how hard they worked and that they were able to pull everything together to make sure the pow wow could see completion on time. Every time our people sing, drum, and practice our culture, we heal and become stronger. As our language, culture and traditions continue to grow and come back to us, the healthier we become. I was also able to attend the Secwepemc Gathering in

Horse Lake this year with my family. I had a great time seeing all the people from other communities gathering and visiting like we used to before Covid. My favorite part was hearing the laughter and seeing everyone embracing one another. Laughter is healing, and in this time we need to remember that.

In September, the kids are back in school and the leaves were starting to change and fall. I had the privilege of being a part of a gorgeous wedding hosted at WLFN’s Coyote Rock Golf course. I was honored to be able to share such a special day with my dear friends and family. We are so fortunate to have the beautiful land that we do, and are able to host such memorable events. As we move toward winter I want everyone to remember to continue to help one another out, if you hear or see someone struggling help them if you can. If you cannot help them reach out there are numerous people within our community that are willing to help. I am excited for what the future brings, because for our people it is bright. I hope to see more of you in the upcoming months before the holidays to share a meal or just enjoy each other’s company. send prayers out every day to anyone and everyone that is struggling and hope that Creator helps them on their journey’s. Keep an eye out on the WLFN webpage and Facebook page to see any upcoming events for the membership, and I hope to see you all there.

Yeri7 skukwstsetetsemc!!

Councilor Shae Chelsea

Let’s do more for our family, friends, neighbors, strangers, and those in our lives.

I

SWEARING IN

n July, Willie Sellars was acclaimed for another four-year term as Chief of Williams Lake First Nation. The following month, Dancing Water Sandy and former WLFN Chief Ann Louie were elected to Councillor positions. The ceremony to swear-in the new Councillors was a maelstrom of emotion: Outgoing councillors Shawna Philbrick (now Robbins) and JoAnne Moiese were honoured with a blanket ceremony. A line stretched all the way around the Elizabeth Grouse Gymnasium, as community members patiently waited to show their gratitude. One-by-one, community members got their turn to hug and congratulate the outgoing councillors, while the sounds of drumming and singing echoed throughout the room.

The outgoing Councillors weren’t the only ones to draw a crowd to the ceremony; friends and family of Chief Sellars and Councillors Ann Louie and Dancing Water Sandy came out in full force. Organizers scrambled to put up more tables and chairs as guests kept coming through the door. A last-minute order was even placed to make sure there was enough food to serve everybody.

Dancing Water Sandy brings a fiery personality and diverse skillset to the council. She holds a Bachelor’s of Education from UBC with a specialization in Indigenous Education. In addition to her work as an educator with School District 27, Councillor Sandy played a key role in organizing this year’s Speaking Our Truth Competition Pow Wow. Her son William, along with many other family members were at the ceremony cheering her on.

Having spent much of her childhood in East Vancouver, Councillor Sandy knows the experience of off-reserve Community Members. “It can be hard so want to focus on off-reserve members” she noted, “and create partnerships in urban areas so that they can feel successful, they can move ahead and feel supported and overall, like active members of our community.”

Ann Louie has an extensive history serving Williams Lake First Nation. She has served as both Chief and on council, and brings wellsprings of experience and wisdom. Councillor Louie took a step back from leadership four years ago, when battling her second bout of cancer. She indicated that continued encouragement from the community played a great role in her decision to run for council. Councillor Louie’s calm, confident charisma set the tone as she, Councillor Sandy, and Chief Sellars signed their declarations.

Chief Sellars expressed what an honour it is to start a new term by acclamation – “I always wanted to be acclaimed!” He said that it feels like validation for the accomplishments of he and the council of the past four years. Citing, among other things, the $135 million Village Claim Settlement and Trust Agreement, the accomplishments of WLFN over the past four years have

indeed been great. “We have some big things envisioned for this community” he noted, “and some big builds.” Chief Sellars is excited to work alongside his mentor, Councillor Louie, as well as Councillor Sandy. He quipped that while conversations between he and Councillor Sandy have not always been easy or comfortable, they are always productive, cutting straight to the heart of the matter.

The winning candidates were separated from the pack by only a handful of votes, suggesting that all the candidates for Council offered something truly interesting to the electorate. As soon as the doors opened, the spirit of collaboration and dedication from the whole community was palpable. Bitter-sweet tears of joy and relief ushered in a new chapter, with the strength of an entire community lifting up its leadership past and future.

F rom September 9th to 11th, Williams Lake First Nation hosted the highly anticipated Speaking Our Truth Competition Pow Wow, at the arbor above the Chief William Campground. With a previous attempt at the Pow Wow in 2021 being cancelled due to the pandemic, the event was a long time coming. By all accounts it was a terrific success.

Speaking Our Truth hosted over 300 dancers, 20 vendor booths, and about 750 guests.

Leading up to Speaking Our Truth, the pow wow arbor received around $350 000 in renovations and revitalization. Improvements made in time for the pow wow will benefit of the community for years to come, providing a facility for pow wows, concerts, and any number of small to large scale community events.

WLFN Red Seal carpenter Joey Alphonse managed and

coordinated the extensive upgrade, with a financial contribution of $50 000 from Fortis BC.

Pioneer Log Homes replaced nearly 40 of the logs that make up the basic structure of the arbor. Over the stage the roofline was extended, providing extra protection from sun and weather, and giving an impressive visual effect as the logs soar into the sky over the dance surface.

A new roof system was installed by Tony Derkson and Blue Narcisse with beautiful, fresh wood panels lining the ceiling. Allan Roofing installed new asphalt shingles, giving a sharp effect, and providing years of protection to the structure. The original surviving logs were cleaned up to match the new timbers, and new, leveled grass was installed by Ground Releaf Landscaping to provide a flawless dance surface.

Additional infrastructure surrounding the grounds has begun with new stairs for access to the arbor from the campgrounds. There are plans for more paving around the grounds, improved bathroom facilities, and enough permanent showers to accommodate large crowds of campers.

By the time the dancers and drummers started arriving to register, the atmosphere in the arbor was buzzing with anticipation. As they set up, drummers and singers (along with their traveling entourage) quickly took over the drum pits, setting up their stations and blessing their drums for the music to come. The Host Drum for Speaking Our Truth was Sage Hills from Tk’emlúps; a powerhouse ensemble that didn’t fail to light the spirits of dancers and audiences alike throughout the whole weekend. When given the chance, dancers also frequently requested songs from invited drums Cree Confederation and Wild River. Backup from Eagle Creek, Northern Tribez, and Red Spotted Horse kept the chesthitting drums thundering late into the evenings.

Head Dancers for Speaking Our Truth were Jean William and Francis “Frankie” Robbins, while Sky Moses had the honour of carrying and keeping the Eagle Staff. Keeping everything running smoothly was Arena Director Jim Edgar with MC Stan Isadore.

In total, there were 15 local dancers registered. As it wouldn’t feel particularly hospitable to guests if local dancers took home all the prize money, dancers from the community were given an honorarium to participate and were not included in the judging of the contests. Local dancers put on an amazing show and brought pride to the community. The organizers of Speaking Our Truth extend their gratitude to the local dancers for bringing their skill, enthusiasm, and charisma to the pow wow: Colleen Wycotte, Councillor Dancing Water Sandy, Danikka Murphy, Estkwelanlnik, Gregory “Kiddo” Alphonse, Hazel Alphonse, Jean William, Len Supernault, Marcelle Wynja, Michaellaine Evans, Nancy Sandy, Sharae Wycotte, Sky Moses, William Lulua, and Chief Willie Sellars.

The winner of the 2022 Speaking Our Truth Pageant was 14-year-old Kimmimela Louis from Talka Landing. The winner of the Hand Drum contest was Breanna Tso, with Red Hawk Michell and Dallas Waskahat following up.

JUNIOR BOYS

SEVEN FEATHERS CROSSWALK

JUNIOR GIRLS

TEEN BOYS

TEEN GIRLS

T hompson Rivers University’s Williams Lake Campus has a striking new addition. TRU’s Coordinator of Indigenous Support Service Geraldine Bob helped facilitate the installation of a beautiful mural crosswalk, in a bright orange to signify the “Every Child Matters” movement, and a spirit of reconciliation.

Geraldine explains that the seven feathers represent the Seven Grandfather Teachings recognized by many Indigenous communities in Canada: love, respect, courage, honesty, humility, truth, and wisdom. The seven teachings outline a way of approaching the world, with a focus on a moral respect for all living things. Many Indigenous organizations and communities have adopted the seven teachings as guiding principles.

In Geraldine’s words, “The orange crosswalk, with seven feathers centred across its width, commemorates the Indigenous children who were taken from their families and forced to attend residential schools. This crosswalk is a symbol of the strength and courage of the Residential School Survivors and a tribute to those lives lost.”

The crosswalk provides a striking visual reminder that Every Child Matters, and serves as an encouraging step towards reconciliation in our local community.

ELDER HIGHLIGHT

HELEN SANDY

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espite a rich history in pine-needle work, photography, writing and sketching, Helen Sandy does not consider herself an artist. She will (slightly begrudgingly) accept the title of “creator of things,” and sees her creative process as a way of documenting history. Her 2020 photography exhibition at the Station House Gallery was called Documenting a Traditional Shuswap Activity; Smoking Salmon for Winter Food, affirming that she places a great deal of importance on the preservation of Traditional Secwépemc culture and heritage.

Her photos from the Station House exhibit, dating back as far as 1996, beautifully show the process of catching, cleaning, cutting, and smoking salmon. Her love of creating is apparent in both the detail of the exhibit, and the timespan over which it was collected. Despite rejecting the label of “artist,” Helen invests a deep love and attention-to-detail in each of her creations.

This quality is made clear in a photo of hers that was chosen for an urban beautification project in downtown Williams Lake. Helen was gathering sxusem berries near Thompson Rivers University when she was struck by how beautiful the berries were. A photo she took that day was later chosen to be printed across the fence of the FortisBC building, stretching the length of a city block. While she may see the photo as a time capsule, or a snapshot of a day in her life, it’s also a piece of beauty that can now be enjoyed by the whole community.

Another talent of Helen’s is pine-needle work. Helen makes ornate pendants, earrings, containers, and any great number of other things in the traditional medium, interpreted through her own personal style. She explains

that making the complex designs is quite a therapeutic process; a chance to reflect on memories and let them flow through her.

“Each and every stitch is a memory,” she says, “something really painful, something really funny, a person…” – for Helen, making things is a chance to sit with her thoughts, however comfortable or uncomfortable they may be, and take something good from them. It’s a process of “letting out the negative and pouring in the positive.”

When she presented Prime Minister Justin Trudeau with a pine needle piece she had made, she expressed to him the places she was taken creating the piece. “I did a lot of praying with I put this together” she recounts, “I wasn’t praying for you (Prime Minister) – I was praying for myself, and for the people who went on (from residential

schools). I need you to remember that when you look at this piece, you will remember my words, and you won’t forget those children.”

Tå7us k sllépenc – don’t forget – that’s the message that Helen stitches into everything she makes.

Although she’s always making things, that’s just the beginning for Helen. Her favorite part of the creative process is sending her pieces out into the world and bringing joy into other peoples’ lives.

Helen was honoured for her generosity at September’s Speaking Our Truth Competition Pow Wow, when she was presented a gift of a buckskin dress by lifelong friend Joan Gentles. Gentles told the crowd that the friendship between their families goes back several generations, and

that she has always known Helen to be a beautiful person. A dance was had in Helen’s honour, as the crowd embraced her for all she brings to the community.

Leading up to the holiday season, Helen spends much of her time making things for Christmas markets while reflecting on the year she’s had. You will find her with an assortment of her pine-needle work at the WLFN Elders’ Christmas Bazaar, December 3 at the Elizabeth Grouse Gymnasium.

IT’S BETTER TO BE INSIDE THE TENT

FROM CIVIL DISOBEDIENCE TO SEATS AT THE TABLE

7 am, the morning of Monday, September 20, 1999, two bulldozer operators reached their worksite on the 2300 Forest Service Road only to be handed a stop-work order. The order was delivered by Williams Lake Indian Band, including Chief Nancy Sandy, who had spent the weekend building a blockade and camp on the FSR near Spokin Lake, BC. Riverside Forest Products had been issued a permit to log 19 cutblocks, ranging in size from 9.5 to 42.6 hectares, and totaling a volume of 81,000 cubic metres. This was not the first time WLIB had gone toe-to-toe over this particular forest, and it would not be the last.

In the 1980s, the aggressive logging style of the day ripped through the Enterprise area, knocking the moose population of the woodland back from 2000 to just 75. By 1999, the Spokin Lake area was the last untouched traditional moose hunting ground for WLIB members. Chief Sandy, Council, staff, Elders, and the community were prepared to defend it.

Discussions about the fate of this land had been ongoing between WLIB, the Ministry of Forests and Riverside for years leading up to the blockade. Five years prior, members of WLIB successfully stopped an earlier attempt to clearcut the area, constructing a cabin on Rideau Road. WLIB had been actively fighting for a claim over the territory since at least 1992.

In 1997, legal precedent was established in British Columbia, outlining that governments and companies are obligated to consult with First Nations regarding any development or resource extraction occurring on their traditional territory.

The precedent stemmed from the Supreme Court of Canada Decision Delgamuukw v. British Columbia. It is contingent on a First Nation being able to prove that the land in question had traditionally been used and is currently used by its people. In 1994, WLIB spent a huge amount of resources (which were quite limited compared to those of WLFN today) to conduct a Traditional Use Study. The study concluded that the Nation had historically used and continues to use the lands surrounding Spokin Lake for sustenance hunting, berry picking, gathering medicinal plants, and spiritual needs.

With the law on their side in 1997, Chief Nancy Sandy demanded of District Manager Jim Sutherland that the Ministry of Forests conduct a proper study on the moose habitat in the Spokin Lake area before issuing a permit to Riverside. Sutherland tried to reassure Chief Sandy by offering a “three-month literature review,” which didn’t come close to satisfying WLIB. WLIB had concerns about many factors of the proposed logging activity, including the location and length of the road, the area to be logged, and the question of who would reap the economic benefits. The ministry shrugged off the demands and issued Riverside a permit.

Despite the Nation’s countless attempts at meaningful consultation and a PR campaign which brought the dispute into the local headlines, the clearcut was still scheduled to move forward. While still meeting with Elders regularly to strategize, Chief Sandy and WLIB could see they were running out of options.

Three weeks after the blockade was established and the stop-work order was delivered, Riverside and the Ministry of Forests ceded to WLIB, modifying the permit to match most of their specifications. Rather than clearcutting massive swathes of the land, only a small patch that was affected by pine beetle was to be logged. Importantly, the entrance to the road was to be moved to a different location that allowed for a much shorter path, further away from the tenuous moose habitat. Band members were offered beetle-probing contracts: a small gesture of economic inclusion in the project. Although a positive step, this was not the end of the disputes over the Spokin Lake forests.

Five years later, in 2004, Riverside Forest Products continued to push permit applications through without proper consultation of the First Nation. In one case, Riverside allowed a window of just seven days to review the impacts of 23 cut blocks, and an additional 11 days to review another 12 cut blocks near Maze and Squawk Lakes. Riverside refused to cover any consultation costs, or to accept WLIB’s claim to the territory. Despite the Delgamuukw v. British Columbia decision establishing that corporations must consult with First Nations before developing on their traditional territory, this practice was still not consistent within the culture of forestry. WLIB had been vying for a Protocol Agreement with Riverside for the joint management of Spokin Lake with little success.

Headway was made when Tolko Industries Ltd. purchased Riverside, late in 2004. With new management came a fresh outlook on collaboration with First Nations. This came as a relief to then WLIB Natural Resource Manager Chris Wycotte and Director Kristy Palmantier, who had fought to maintain negotiations with Riverside through their purchase of Lignum Ltd earlier in the year.

The 2003 Forest Revitalization Act provided leverage for WLIB when negotiating a protocol agreement with Tolko. The act took 20% of the Annual Allowable Cut (AAC) held in renewable tenures across the province (equivalent to about 8.3 million cubic metres) and reallocated it to (among other arenas) First Nations. This meant that about 8% of the AAC in the province would be managed by, or in partnership with First Nations.

In 2006, protocol agreements were at long last put in place between Tolko and WLIB. The agreement involved, for the first time, a meaningful level of WLIB land stewardship through joint planning processes, and a resource management plan for the Spokin Lake area. WLIB Natural Resources department maintained regular consultation with Elders to ensure the joint planning was conducted to the highest standard of traditional knowledge. The newly minted agreement with Tolko also opened economic opportunities through license agreements, funding for referrals, and contract opportunities for WLIB’s Borland Creek Logging.

The battles over Spokin Lake are not the only angle WLFN has worked to gain control over its traditional territory. There have been other significant victories granting power to WLFN. In October of 2015, the Forest Stewardship Plan was approved by the Ministry of Forests for the Williams Lake Community Forest, giving WLIB a managing role over 28,840 hectares of traditional territory. Williams Lake Community Forest is a 50/50 partnership between Williams Lake First Nation (WLIB at the time of signing) and the City of Williams Lake, with mandates in place to sustainably manage the land in accordance with WLFN’s protocols.

It’s likely that nothing short of a treaty will provide WLFN with full control over its entire traditional territory. Still, between the Williams Lake Community Forest, protocol agreements with virtually every major forestry company in the region, three Non-Replaceable Forest Licenses totalling 405,000 cubic metres that were negotiated with the Ministry of Forests in 2008, and myriad other avenues, the level of sway that WLFN holds in the forestry sector has grown leaps and bounds since the 1999 blockade. This wasn’t a passive process; it came from decades of hard work, grit, and tenacity. WLFN Senior Manager of Natural Resources Aaron Higginbottom indicated that it can still be extremely difficult to halt projects that have been granted cutting permits, even if WLFN can clearly identify ecological risks associated with a project. “We still have to fight tooth and nail if we want to stop a project” he says. Higginbottom paraphrases the elders when he says, “it’s still better to be inside the tent, than stuck outside without a voice in the conversation.”

MOVABLE FEAST COMMUNITY FISH

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n August 23, T’exelc was treated to the Movable Feast, a traveling music festival with an overflowing lineup of incredible Indigenous musical performers. Movable Feast was organized by 2 Rivers Remix Society and Virtual Feast, and brought artists like Juno Award Winning Sta’atl’imx Nation musician George Leach, Mohawk singer-songwriter and The Launch competitor Logan Staats, Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation’s DJ Kookum, and legendary Inuk singersongwriter Willie Thrasher.

Dubbed by organizers as the “We Are Still Here” summer tour, the Movable Feast had already traveled all around the province before lining up a show at Byron Louie Memorial Park (WLFN Ballfield) in T’exelc. Running late into the night, the festival brought something for everyone; from folk, country, storytelling and blues, to funk grooves and hard hitting club beats.

This summer marked one year since 2 Rivers Remix’s hometown of ’Q’emcin (Lytton) was devastated by fires. While greatly impacting 2 Rivers organizers on both a personal and professional level, the scale and success of this summer’s Movable Feast shows a remarkable level of resilience and strength. Organizer Meeka Morgan noted that “it’s probably the biggest event we’ve ever done,” citing nearly a dozen Juno Award winners and nominees on the lineup.

The Community showed its gratitude by coming out in droves to the day of festivities in the ball diamond. It was a welcome excuse to celebrate and take in the waning moments of summer.

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n August 24, Chief Willie Sellars led a community fish at Farwell Canyon. This was one of several such expeditions held over the course of the summer. Photographer Kiera Elise (WLFN’s own Director of Health and Wellness, Kiera Dolighan) tagged along and captured some amazing photos of the day. On just this trip alone, 225 salmon were caught, cleaned, packed, and distributed to Community Members. Even amid the excitement of September’s Speaking Our Truth Pow Wow weekend, Chief Sellars got up before sunrise to squeeze in a couple hours of dipnetting before heading back for a full day of Pow Wow dancing.

Councillor Chris Wycotte describes how a community fish like this is a significant part of Secwépemc cultural practice. “It’s a chance for members of the community to provide for people that might not be able to go out and fish for themselves; whether they’re an Elder, or they’ve lost a family member and can’t hunt or fish for the year for cultural reasons, or for whatever reason. Our cultural teachings taught us to just go out and help people in the community who need help. Don’t ask if they need help, just go help them. We need to continue that practice.”

CAUGHT WITH KINDNESS

BY BRANDON HOFFMAN

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n September, NDIT First Nations Government Intern Rachel Baron started an email thread with all WLFN staff, encouraging them to take note of simple acts of kindness around the workplace. She explained that leading up to International Kindness Day on November 13th, she would like to recognize staff members for gestures of kindness, no matter how small. Since then, the email thread has been updated weekly, featuring as many as five “nominees,” sharing heartwarming snapshots of workplace life. She dubbed the project “caught with kindness.” Well, in this “Caught with Kindness: Inception Edition,” I would like to nominate Rachel Baron for putting together such a genuinely sweet project. Listed are all the nominees as of the time of printing.

Bonnie Pinchbeck was nominated for “always having a friendly good morning and loves to leave inspiring and encouraging notes on staff’s desks.”

Gailene William was nominated, “delivering her team, including me our favorite hot drink from Tim Horton’s out of pocket. It’s little things like this that remind us to continue working hard (especially on a Friday) It seems she always knows when we need a coffee, tea or hot chocolate the most.”

Gina Gill & Dana Alphonse for “always being friendly and making me laugh on a daily basis, filling the office with laughter and smiles”

Gwi7ne Alphonse was nominated for “helping each day, finishing other staff’s Ribbon Skirts even though she has completed hers already (She’s our Professional Serger)”

Ira Nelson was nominated for “always being willing to step up to do overtime, to help other departments, events, and community members when they are in need. From helping with clients to coming to clean up events, Ira is there!”

JoAnne Moiese was nominated for “taking the lead on making our Ribbon Skirts, and Ribbon Pants (for the education department)…Without her we wouldn’t know where to start”

Judy Ventry was nominated because, as a co-worker explains, “…my WLFN cap grew legs, and then yesterday she said that she had something for me and gave me hers. It was a thoughtful gesture and greatly appreciated.”

Kiera Dolighan was nominated for “Always being willing to pick up her camera and donate her skills to capture moments that may not otherwise be captured. She is always thoughtful to her staff, and willing to support anything including last minute changes to make it work for them. Kiera clearly demonstrates kindness to everyone she meets on an everyday basis.”

Layla Wycotte was nominated for “being so helpful with the Ribbon Skirt Project for Educ. Dept. She finished her skirt and still helped others with theirs, such as helping others hem. Way to go Layla.”

Leah Simon & Andrea Kobza were nominated for “being major assets in getting Little Chief’s school set up for the new school year, including moving and building shelving. They are such awesome helpers.”

Lindsey Bifford was nominated for “surprising the office with smile cookies to greet everyone back from the long weekend, putting smiles on everyone’s faces first thing in the morning.”

Lisa Michel was nominated for “coming in early to Volunteer to make the School Chilli and Bannock for our Concession Fundraiser for the Elders Bingo. She also Ran the Concession, along with JoAnne”

Maggie Berns was nominated for “assisting another department with organizing their Secret Santa, and even going a set further by passing on gift suggestions to the Secret Santa, to help everyone get a special gift. We appreciate Maggie for taking the time to do this! In addition, we also appreciate her hard work in the office, which is always done in a friendly and caring way!”

Mike Taylor was nominated for “taking the time to bring in breakfast doughnuts for the O&M team to enjoy.”

Pamela Kozak was nominated for “being enthusiastic to support programs by driving the bus and being a supportive team member!”

Roxanne Stobie was nominated for “assisting coworkers with fixing documents, which took some time, and for also cleaning up all the dead flies around the building.”

Shawna (Philbrick) Robbins was nominated for “sharing her tea she made with the medicine lady and for always being so sweet”

Shayla Alphonse & Silver Supernault for “always being more than willing to answer my questions and help me with things I need even though they are always so busy up there. They are both great teachers and I appreciate them both very much”

Steffi Fischer was nominated for “bringing in some chocolate-covered coffee beans into the Yorston office to brighten a co-worker’s day! Steffi is always greeting coworkers and visitors with a smiling face is thoughtful, and caring, and is a great asset to the office. She is an absolute gem!”

The LCPS team for “inviting the LCDC team to take part in their Thanksgiving lunch, a very sweet gesture that made the LCDC team’s day!”

Willie Hardemen was nominated for “taking the time to lend a helping hand to help an O&M team member when a box had fell on the ground.”

PHRASE OF THE MONTH

Pixem-ken re teníye pyin te sitq

2022 GRADUATE HIGHLIGHTS

’ t

With autumn comes moose hunting season. Below are some Secwepemc words and phrases to get you into the spirit of the season. Thank you to WLFN Community Cultural Coordinator, David Archie, for providing these translations and pronunciations.

Pixem “to hunt.”

Pronounced like “BEE hmm.” The “P” is pronounced more like a “B” in the English alphabet. The “x” makes a sound from the back of your throat, kind of like an “H”, but further back. The emphasis is on the first syllable.

“BEEhmm.”

Pixem-ken “I am going to hunt.”

In English pronunciation, the “k” in “ken” like a mixture of a “k” sound and a hard “g” sound. “Ken” sounds like the second syllable of the word “again,” but with a stronger attack.

“BEEhmm Ken.”

Pixem-ken re teníye

“I am going to hunt moose.”

The “re” is understated, and sounds like the word “when” without the “n”. Teníye (moose) has the emphasis on the second syllable: “tenEEah.”

“BEEhmm Ken whe tenEEah.”

Pixem-ken re teníye pyin te sit q ’ t

“I am going to hunt moose today.”

Buckle up for this one, native English speakers – the last letters of “sit q ’ t” (t, q ’ and t again) make a quick flurry of consonant sounds. In slow motion, they sound something like “t-k-hh-t”, where the “h” is that back-of-the-throat sound again. In regular, everyday speech, these four consonants are packed together into a single, fluid sound.

In “pyin te sit q ’ t,” the emphasis is on the “py” and the “si.”

“Peein teSEEtkht”.

“BEEhmm Ken whe tenEEah Peein teSEEtkht.”

Congratulations to all the WLFN Graduates of 2022!

Pictured is Geraldine Bob, who held the honour of serving as Valedictorian for her graduating class. Geraldine completed her Master’s in Education while simultaneously serving as Indigenous Support Services Coordinator at Thompson Rivers University.

POST SECONDARY EDUCATION:

GRADE 12 GRADUATES:

SUMMER STUDENT HIGHLIGHTS

CAMBRIA MCGREGOR

Cambria is a veteran of the WLFN Recreation Department. Cambria is a natural leader, confident in her abilities, of which she excels in many. Cambria can effortlessly engage with clients at their level, creating relationships with ease and gaining the awe and respect of those clients. Cambria is extremely hands on, being directly in programming and not just administering it. You can find Cambria playing rainbow tag on any given day, diving past children in our Afterschool Program as they swarm to tag her. Cambria has invested a lot of her time and effort into WLFN Recreation over the years, and that dedication has shined through her exemplary performance throughout this summer. Cambria, you are an inspiration to so many, keep striving for greatness!

ATHENA STUART

Athena is a super dedicated and hardworking individual. Out of the gate, Athena was able to connect with the children and youth in our programs and find her voice as a leader and role model. Athena has a natural talent for working with children and youth, making crucial connections early on and nurturing those connections, creating a positive atmosphere for the clients she serves. Athena is so dedicated she has come to work, at times, forty minutes prior to the start of her shift! Fitting in seamlessly with the other Recreation staff, Athena has made a mark on the department that has set a standard for what future summer workers should emulate. Athena, you are a rockstar!

TEGAN GORDON

Tegan’s ability to connect with children and youth on a one-on-one level is incredible! Tegan has a natural ability to connect to individuals and give them their whole attention. This has created some amazing bonding moments with some of our more reserved clients and created opportunities for bonding that may have not happened otherwise. Tegan has shown adamant leadership capabilities over the months, gaining the trust and respect of our clients in our afterschool and youth leadership programs. Tegan is such an incredibly genuine individual, and leaves those they interact with feeling positive and happy. We are so proud of all the work that Tegan has accomplished at WLFN Recreation and the lives they have impacted during their time with the department. Keep being a positive beacon, Tegan!

DANIKKA MURPHY

Danikka Murphy has been a huge asset to the O&M Department. She is a leader and mentor for not only the other summer students but for all O&M Staff. Danikka is never afraid to take on any challenging tasks regardless of the weather and how difficult the task may be. She continues to push herself and her team to be better and complete important tasks on time. She also inspires others around her to work harder. She never hesitates to ask for clarity when it comes to tasks that she is unfamiliar with which is critical in this line of work as time is valuable.

CALLEIGH SKERRY

Calleigh was the Events/Employment Assistant for her summer position, working closely with Events Coordinator Janet Smith and Employment Coordinator Shawna Robbins. Janet lovingly referred to her as “our star summer student,” rising to any occasion with impeccable professionalism and integrity. “That kid can pick up anything and just do it!” Janet says. Whether it’s cold-calling a business with a strange request, or helping rescue a baby duck from the side of the highway, Calleigh is up for any challenge. She holds a quiet confidence well beyond her years. Janet says that partners were always blown away to discover Calleigh was a summer student, and not full-time WLFN staff. As a testament to the consistency and quality of the work she produces, all the other features in this list were written by Calleigh, as a way of hyping up her peers throughout their summer tenure. WLFN is lucky to have had Calleigh for the summer, and we hope she comes back.

WILLIAM LULUA

Williams Lulua has been an absolute pleasure to have join the team this summer, working with the various team members in the Natural Resources Department, with Nishitha, Willem and John assisting wherever possible. William has a super positive attitude and friendly demeanor that allows him to readily join the team and take up whatever activity has been scheduled for the day. He is always on time and has great attendance and lets his team know when he has not been able to attend. We hope that he has enjoyed working with the team as much as we have enjoyed his presence and would certainly welcome him back if he chooses or is available to join us again at a future date.

KEANE PHILBRICK-SELLARS

Keane Philbrick- Sellars Shows up ready and eager to work, works as a great team player, and is always willing to learn new skills and pitch-in when needed. Keane is also a quick learner and is able to problem-solve when required. Keane assisted with a few of the water-main extensions within the community and got a quick orientation on how each home within WLFN operates and flows through the main water line safely.

STERLING ALPHONSE

Sterling Alphonse is a respectable worker and can understand and complete tasks in a timely manner when assigned. Sterling is also learning a lot about the main water lines throughout the community along with assisting with removal of sanitary lines after the sewer main has been connected. Sterling isn’t afraid to ask questions and is very helpful when it comes to all tasks in and around the O&M Department. We really enjoy having him here as part of the team.

ARIEL BILLYBOY

Ariel has set a very high work ethic since she joined the Housing Team. In these short few weeks, we have been able to give her tasks such as asset management, invoicing, logging purchase orders, updating housing/O&M forms, and working on the Housing/O&M pamphlet. Ariel is a very fast learner, she fits in with the dynamics of our team, and I’m sure she will continue to pursue excellence. I hope to see Ariel come back next summer to work for us and *fingers crossed* that she comes back to work for WLFN once she completes university if she choses.

WELCOME TO WLFN

LAYLA WYCOTTE Tutor

A proud WLFN member, Layla is our new team member working as a Tutor with the Education department. With her self-directed approach, Layla will assist the students’ learning progress through different educational resources, help them set goals for themselves and motivate them to achieve them. Layla has gained her experience working with us as the Fleet Management Assistant with O&M, Denisiqi Services Society, and many other volunteer opportunities working with children, gardening, and taking care of the Elders at the Senior Village.

NAVJOT KAUR Grade 2-4, Teacher

Navjot has joined us as the Grade 2-4 Teacher at the Little Chiefs Primary School. Navjot will design a teaching plan and use activities and instructional methods to inspire, encourage and develop young children. Navjot has completed her Master of Education from Thompson Rivers University and the Early Childhood Educator Assistant program certification. She has experience teaching elementary schools in India. She was also the Assistant to the Director at the Big Little Science Centre, Kamloops, where she coordinated various activities for elementary school kids and the after-school program.

JUSTIN CODE

After-School Program Coordinator

Justin joins us as the After-School Program Coordinator. Over the last 11 years, Justin has served the community

of Williams Lake in childcare/youth work, education, and community social care. Justin has worked as a Homeless Shelter Support Worker at CMHA’s Hamilton Hotel Shelter, Community Outreach Worker, and Youth & Childcare Program Coordinator. He has run after-school programming, summer day camps, community youth events, and youth leadership programs. Welcome to the team, Justin!

NOAH ROHNER Electrician

Noah is currently a 3rd-year apprentice on WLFN projects since he started his trade! Noah will report to Stuart Larson, Director of Community Services & Infrastructure, assist O&M, Water Plant controls in conjunction with ICI Engineering, and assist all WLFN facilities and properties (including Sugar Cane Cannabis and buildings used for corporate purposes) with maintenance and electrical work.

CHRIS BLAIN Research Assistant,

SJM

Passionate about learning languages and exploring the world, Chris joins our team as the Research Assistant for the St. Joseph’s Mission (SJM) Investigation. Chris has completed his Bachelor of Arts from UBC, majoring in Psychology and minored in First Nation and Indigenous Studies. Being an Indigenous Youth Support Worker at the Kitimat High School sparked Chris’ goals of spreading awareness about Indigenous history and traditions.

Chris has lived in Japan for three years and worked as the Assistant Language Teacher for the Japan Exchange and Teaching Programme.

DANIKKA MURPHY

Community Cultural Assistant

Danikka was a great role-model to our summer students this year, and now she is back to join our team as the Community Cultural Assistant. Danikka will work closely with the WLFN community members and staff and report to David Archie, Manager, Culture and Language, under the Health Station department. Danikka will be responsible for assisting in the development, integration, and delivery of Secwepemc Culture to serve the community. Welcome back to the team, Danikka!

RANISH SHAKYA

Geographic Information System (GIS) Analyst

Ranish joins us as the Geographic Information System (GIS) Analyst. Ranish will closely work with Title & Rights, Natural Resources Management, and Lands team. Ranish has been a GIS Analyst with the Blueberry River First Nation, Research Assistant with Southern Illinois University, Engineering Intern with American Bottoms Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant, Climate Change and Communications Officer with Centre for Integrated Urban Development in Nepal, and Environment Engineer with CEPAD Hydro Consultants. Ranish has a Bachelor of Technology in Environmental Engineering, Master of Science in Civil Engineering, and Master of Science in Geography.

AARON HUTCHINSON

Law Enforcement Officer

Aaron joins us as the Law Enforcement Officer. Born and raised in Williams Lake, Aaron is a registered member of the Spuzzum Indian Band (Nlaka’pamux Nation) through my paternal side, and he has a Secwepemc ancestry on my maternal side (Canoe Creek Band). His grandfather, Fred Hutchinson, had worked for Borland Creek Logging. Aaron is super excited to serve the Williams Lake First Nation members and be a part of such a progressive and professional team. Aaron comes to us with 11 years of service with British Columbia Corrections and a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology with a background in emergency operations and project management. Welcome to the team, Aaron!

IN MEMORIAM

LEORA LOUIE

My little Missy. Kash, you are my special granddaughter, so loving and caring. spent the last couple of years praying so hard for you and others in our family, so we would never see this day. I again pray that our young ones will take a lesson from this terrible incident. Drugs are taking to many of our people, especially the young ones, for nothing other than greed by dealers. The dealers are killing their customers with lethal doses of fentanyl and other drugs. This is not our way, and many times we sat and spoke about the things you wanted in life. This includes a good education so that you could have all the things you wanted for the rest of your life, to not be dependant on anyone. You are now free from this painful world and in a peaceful place with other ancestors uncle Peye7.

Just a few days ago you reached out to me to say you wanted to go to treatment. I was so happy, and we communicated with the people who were willing to help you achieve this goal. Unfortunately, it wasn’t meant to be. You have left us who loved you with large holes in our hearts. However, we all have very beautiful memories of our times together –watching you play hockey, dancing, hunting, fishing, gathering together as family. I will forever cherish those moments, and especially the time that you lived with me. Lots of laughs and fun, because you were so silly. Please look after and guide our family so that they can lead good, healthy lifestyles from this day forward. Your brother, sister, Memphis and other cousins, family, friends, all need young, strong ruling hands and minds to guide them to a better lifestyle. Love forever and till we meet again.

Grandma.

AKASHA

EVENTS

COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT

WITH JANE MIDDELTON-MOZ:

9:00-4:00 EACH DAY | ELIZABETH GROUSE GYMNASIUM

A workshop designed to stop the cycle of intergenerational trauma, open to all FN individuals 12 and up, affected by the tragic legacy of St. Joseph’s Mission Residential School. To register, or for more info, contact: Judy Ventry, judy.ventry@wlfn.ca or 250.296.3507 ext 191

WIPG COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT SESSION

12:00 & 5:30 SESSIONS | WLFN COUNCIL CHAMBERS

Please join us online or in-person for a community engagement session about WIPG and WLFN’s potential partnership with this group in the purchase of the Trans Mountain Pipeline. For more info, a zoom link, or transportation, contact: Maggie Berns, maggie.berns@wlfn.ca or 250.296.3507 ext. 138

COUNCIL MEETING HIGHLIGHTS

Council met with the newly appointed Corporal Brent Viver in charge of Indigenous policing in Williams Lake, they discussed ways to strengthen the relationship between the RCMP and the WLFN community.

WLFN

MEMBERSHIP VOTE

FROM 6:00-7:30

ELIZABETH GROUSE GYMNASIUM

Deadline for applications is Nov. 11th.

Contact: Lisa Camille, 250.296.3507 ext. 103 or lisa.camille@wlfn.ca

ELDERS CHRISTMAS BAZAAR

FROM 9:00-3:00

ELIZABETH GROUSE GYMNASIUM

Join us for hourly door prizes, loonieauctions, a fabulous concession, 50/50 draws, and of course tons of fantastic vendors. Vendors, book your table today! Contact: Carla Berkalaar, 250.296.3507 ext 119 or carla.berkelaar@wlfn.ca

WLFN COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS DINNER

STARTING AT 4:30

ELIZABETH GROUSE GYMNASIUM

Community Members, please join us for our annual event! Catering by Relevant Food (The Laughing Loon), gifts from Santa, plus fun activities, and plenty of door prizes.

RECURRING

TALKING CIRCLES

12:30 EVERY THURSDAY | THE ELDERS’ BUILDING

Gather, learn, and experience how culture and tradition help hold us up through life’s challenging journey.

Open to all residential school survivors and their friends and families.

Lunch provided. Contact: Judy Ventry, judy.ventry@wlfn.ca or 250.296.3507 ext.191

Williams Lake First Nation Council supported Chief Willie Sellars endorsing the letter to the Ministers to engage the Ministers directly regarding the Great Caribou Rainforest Conservation Area (GCRCA) promoting alignment with Canada’s Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples by protecting land for indigenous habitat rehabilitation, traditional use and education, and economic and sustainable development.

The WLFN Council approved and signed the Fire Service agreement negotiated between the City of Williams Lake and the WLFN.

Chief Sellars, Councillor Wycotte, and staff will attend the BC First Nation Leadership Gathering in Vancouver on November 29-30, 2022. They will meet with the Premier and Cabinet Ministers to discuss reconciliation priorities as well as issues affecting First Nations communities.

Cariboo Gold Mine Project WLFN Council was provided with an update on the project’s background, environmental assessment process specific technical topics, and Next Steps.

WLFN Council fully supported Spi7uy Squqluts Language & Culture Society; in seeking funding to continue protecting and promoting the Northern Dialect of the Secwepemc Language & Culture.

WLFN Council gathered for a strategy session at the Sparkling Hill Resort in Vernon. The Council went over their plans for the year as well as their top priorities.

The council approved the October 20, 2022 “Construction for Works Yard” proposal by Lauren Brothers Construction Ltd in the amount of $823,430. The WLFN-owned building on Quigli Drive that previously housed Sugar Cane TreadPro will be renovated.