; Metis News and Stuff: February 2007

Wednesday, February 28, 2007

Metis Nation Secretary Goes To Trial

The case against a former secretary of the Metis Nation of Saskatchewan will go to trial.
Ralph Kennedy is one of several people charged in connection with the 2004 Metis Election. Kennedy 's preliminary hearing on a charge of forgery ended Tuesday with the case being sent to trial in Queens Bench Court. The charge was laid following allegations of wrong doing during the vote. No trial date has been set

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posted by Derryl at 12:28 PM 3 Comments

MMF Finally Responds !!!

Before you read this, I have to tell you that my initial response to this e mail was one of disappointment. The e mail was sent by the E.D. of the MMF and former NDP deputy minster, Oliver Boulette. Here are a few excerpts from the political type response...which by the way, is contrary to how I have dealt with the MMF in the past.
Making up the rules for opposing members on the fly ??
February 28, 2007
Mr. Derryl Sanderson
Sent via email: metis_man@hotmail.com
Dear Mr. Sanderson
Please accept this email correspondence as confirmation of receipt of the two telephone calls you had directed to the President’s Office on February 26, 2007.
In response to the queries you have noted in your February 26, 2007, telephone calls, I will, once again, provide you with the process in which you must follow in order to have your queries responded to.
I would recommend that you contact the MMF Local for your area/community and pose the question to the Chair and/or Co-chair representing your local. The Local Chair in your area/community can approach the MMF Region that represents the local and inquire on your behalf.
Of final note, this will be the final response that the MMF will be providing to you with respect to any further questions or concerns that you may have.

Oliver Boulette
Executive Director
Oliver and I both know along with Dave Chartrand, Don Roulette, and many others that are employed at the Federation, before my opposition to the current executive began, my phone calls were always made to and addressed by head office....remember the cheque you gave me for $ 650.00 Don ?? I phoned you and asked for gas money for my initial gig in Grand Rapids, you gave me $ 650.....I felt guilty about getting that amount so I bought the band supper and gave them each $ 100.00. Didn't have to contact a region or local......The funding provided for my three son's sports registration fees were always just a phone call and a quick letter away......after I found out that some families were not getting even $ 65.00, I returned another $ 600.00 cheque that was granted to me on the basis of a phone call to head office, once again Oliver, Don or Dave didn't say call Winnipeg first........all the gigs that I had performed for the federation pre-opposition days, were always through head office. Dave himself even took time to phone me.
So, please stop with the crap Oliver. I'm not going to argue with you politically on this...your wrong and you know it...speaking as a straight forward as I can...I could phone and get a response any time, before I went against, what I feel is a corrupt organization. This response is ludicrous.
I also know a few other musicians that never had to go to their region and/or local before getting aid from the MMF.
The MMF first response to me in a long time, could have been better....and you know what Oliver ?? I won't contact you again but I hope through my investigations and info gained on this site, that others will be.

posted by Derryl at 11:17 AM 10 Comments

Tuesday, February 27, 2007

Winnipeg Region Employee Speaks Up

I missed this story. It ran a few weeks back and I just picked up on it yesterday...can't follow everything....remember this blog is my hobby.

Metis Activist Decries Lack of HIV/Aids Funding- Drum News
The Winnipeg region of the MMF should be receiving more funding from the head office to deal with the aids epidemic in the city of Winnipeg.
MMF member Joe Bruneau is also the communications liason with the Winnipeg region office. "I'll get in shit for that, but I'm willing to talk to head office". It defeats the purpose of having a Winnipeg office, said Bruneau. We should have a health portfolio and be able to deal with this at the local level, he added.
Wow...good for you Joe. Our current Winnipeg region Vice President Ron Chartrand has been saying that very same thing for years, only behind closed doors. Took an employee to say something. VP Ron was seen cozying up to David Chartrand at the coffee house a while back, so I guess the years of underfunding the most populated region doesn't bother him. Winnipeg region is grossly underfunded as far as per capita funding is concerned, and it's refreshing to see someone attempting to take the issue on. Another thing...I'll bet Joe still has a job. Asking questions of our leaders should not result in having to worry whether or not you will be terminated, or given "shit".

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posted by Derryl at 2:32 PM 1 Comments

New Training Facility For Neeginan Students

This employment training program sounds great because it is training the students for a career where the pay is above normal.,,,kudos to Conservative party and minister of western economic diversification MP Rona Ambrose and to the Centre of Aboriginal Human Resource Development.
links below ;
Aboriginal Students and Manitoba Businesses Benefit From $770000 ...Government of Canada Newsroom (press release) The Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs and Minister of Western Economic Diversification, today announced funding for the Centre ...

posted by Derryl at 1:30 AM 1 Comments

MMF To Decide How To Get Rid Of Their Trash


Oh man....I can say so much about this article. But I'll bite my tongue.
Link below ;
Manitoba to fund waste management system for Metis Federation offices
Insert your own "trashy" comment below....lol....all kidding aside, if this program is aimed at recyling then it's money well spent.

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posted by Derryl at 12:26 AM 2 Comments

Festival Du Voyaguer


Michael "Slick" Harris, Derryl Sanderson, Darren Lavallee

Left one venue, got to this gig with about two minutes to spare !! I had the extreme pleasure of playing for a square dance group and this young man....Michael "Slick" Harris. The tent was full to capacity, and this kid just wowed the crowd with his amazingly quick feet.

posted by Derryl at 12:17 AM 0 Comments

Monday, February 26, 2007

Late Monday Musings

Busy day today, but a good Monday all in all. Firstly gotta say thank you to the Metis community of Matheson Island for having us play for their annual fishing derby. Full house at the community hall and by all reports everyone had a blast. Thank you Mona and Wanda for the hospitality. Matheson island also has a book that details the history of the area. We stopped and ate at Bun's Bakery and I had a chance to look over some of the old photos and such.
The roads were sure awful coming back.....there's nothing more annoying than having to drive 60-70 kilometres per hour on the highway........The Friendship Centre story is about done. I had a talk with an employee who states that the board has signed over governance to the Manitoba Association of Friendship Centres.
OK, we lost that one. But I'll tell you all something.....all was not lost. These people involved in this take-over never expected the level of resistance to this move, and you can bet they will proceed cautiously in the future...no more sweeping things under the rug without anyone noticing. Thank you to all who tried to help the centre's employees and board. You fought the good fight as they say.
There is some good news tho, they have upped the number of board members allowed to stay on and I am pleased to say that Beryl Bouvette and Father Dominique Kerbrat have been retained as part of the five asked to stay on. There are still some questions relating to the transfer, but I trust that the MAC people have heard and seen the community in action, and do the right thing for the area's residents. Jeff Richard and his board did a great job and the MAC people will hopefully carry on the good work of those individuals.
President Davey Chartrand of the Manitoba Metis Federation piped upped on the Bill c-31 issue, while speaking during the Metis Hour X Two. It really looks like he is interested in trying to represent people who already enjoy more rights than the Metis should or will ever have...to all the C-31 status individuals......beware of David Chartrand and his lot getting any capacity building dollars or the like, to take care of your interests. here's some reasons why you should not want the MMF or david Chartrand's representation ;
1) His corp is mired in deep financial debt.
2) He cuts out opposing members.
3) Utilizes the media only for good news.
4) Friends or supporters are known to receive special treatment.
5) Spends tens of thousands of dollars in for MMF promo.......news , radio, billboards
6) And if you cross the line, the MMF corp will sue your butt !!! With the members cash !! Also noticed another something else during Chartrand's radio address.....he sure seems to be taking a much more conciliatory tone towards Manitoba Premier Gary Doer. Contrary to his blustering and aggressive stances he has taken in the past....worried "bout something Dave ?........J.J. Lavallee's fundraiser should be a blast and I will be able to make it........Finally got a call from Kurt Penner who is an assistant to the deputy of Northern Affairs, Oscar Lathin.....I told him that his call was about a month too late and that I had given the Metis Child and family services documents to the Winnipeg Sun. he was also informed that Family services and housing has taken what appears to be, great interest in these documents...too bad deputy minister Harvey Bostrom seemingly turned a blind eye to what him and I had discussed, he knew the existance of these documents for alomost two months........I've also been wondering why I have never been asked to retract something written..........I was involved a super round table discussion today, with some people who were concerned about the state of Aboriginal services these days. My word to these and others who feel that there are things wrong with how the services are delivered.....patience........There are now a total of 438 articles posted on this site and you can view them all from the archives section on the sidebar. There are now 206 comments that I have not moderated.....The poll thats is also inserted on the sidebar, will run for one week, then I will forward the results to the funders of the MMF.

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posted by Derryl at 11:18 PM 0 Comments

Friday, February 23, 2007

This Girl can SING !!



Just give her the damn title, what an amazing voice !!!

posted by Derryl at 2:36 PM 0 Comments

Blain Constant - Orange Blossom Special



My wife and I were wondering where this young man was these days. He obviously still playing and getting polished on the fiddle.

posted by Derryl at 1:30 AM 1 Comments

Metis Nation of Ontario Goes To Guatemala

My uncle used to tell me stories about MNO President Tony Belcourt and his affinity for fun and travel. So Belcourt usually goes to this area once a year...but this time is it under the guise of political kinship with the bill footed by the ordinary Metis and Canadians ? ?
This is a prime example of the terrible waste and abuse of funding dollars that I talk about....what, the Metis of Ontario couldn't use that money for their homeless or downtrodden ?...what about some youth sports sponsorship ?? The projects that they claim to be aiding the Mayan people with, would be more than appreciated by his own Metis people in Ontario. Oh, and Metis National Council President Clem Chartier, will also be joining Tony on this fun in the sun junket. Great use of government cash boys...how come you didn't invite Davey ?

Casa Guatemala

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posted by Derryl at 12:45 AM 1 Comments

Thursday, February 22, 2007

Winter Storm Warning !!


From the reports on the Weather network it looks like Winnipegs' gonna get a bit of snow.

A LOW PRESSURE SYSTEM APPROACHING FROM THE WEST IS EXPECTED TO GENERATE STRONG SOUTHEASTERLY WINDS ACROSS SOUTHERN MANITOBA FRIDAY. SNOWFALL AMOUNTS ACCOMPANYING THIS SYSTEM WILL RANGE FROM 10 TO 20 CM. SNOW AND STRONG WINDS MAY COMBINE TO CREATE BLIZZARD CONDITIONS OVER SOUTHERN MANITOBA FRIDAY AFTERNOON. CONDITIONS ARE EXPECTED TO IMPROVE SATURDAY AFTERNOON. ENVIRONMENT CANADA WILL CONTINUE TO MONITOR THIS WINTER STORM AND WARNINGS WILL LIKELY BE ISSUED AS THE TRACK OF THE LOW BECOMES MORE CERTAIN. A WINTER STORM WATCH IS AN ALERT OF THE POTENTIAL DEVELOPMENT OF SEVERE WINTER WEATHER. PERSONS IN OR NEAR THESE AREAS SHOULD BE PREPARED FOR DEVELOPING ADVERSE WEATHER CONDITIONS AND SHOULD LISTEN FOR UPDATED WATCHES AND POSSIBLE WARNINGS.
We're due for a storm anyways. Please be safe on the highways.

posted by Derryl at 12:48 PM 0 Comments

Manitoba Metis Federation and The Feds Visiting




I have been noticing on the site map counter that I have installed on the sidebar, that the MMF and the government of Canada have been visiting multiple times on a daily basis.
On the page look for gc.ca and wiband. Wiband is the MMF server and the corporation's leader Dave Chartrand has told a reporter he visits Metis news and Stuff. I keep phoning for you Dave why don't you call back ?? Months now buddy, what's wrong ? Is this the way you react to the tough questions from your own people ?? I hope the government starts asking you the tough funding questions.....you won't be able to run from them Davey.
As of today Dave Chartrand will go down in history as the most fiscally irresponsible leader the Metis have ever seen.....over ONE MILLION in the red with no plan to cut spending.
He is also closing the door to his corp. to more and more MMF members.
You still suing your own (www.cybersmokesignals.com ) with the taxpayer monies your given Dave ??

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posted by Derryl at 12:13 PM 3 Comments

AFN Launches New Poverty Awareness Campaign

Indian Affairs Minister Jim Prentice is the target of a campaign against Native poverty set for launch tomorrow by the country's most prominent national Native organization.
link below ;

One day I wish the government would finally take the issue of First nation's poverty by the horns and seriously address the issue that has caused generations much grief. There need to be a major focus on both sides, towards earmarking the dollars towards the people who are the most needy.

The numbers of First Nations and Metis children in care of social agencies is astounding One of the reasons I have been told, the monies allotted to feed kids on the paltry allowance given by the government is not nearly enough. There are reports of parents who just cant afford to raise their children due to the exorbitant costs for even the basic necessities...milk on one first nation I visited was priced at eighteen dollars and change, for a four litre jug !! There are no real provisions given to the people for the high costs, but where else are they able to shop ?? Clean water has been an issue for years on many reserves.
You know, it's hard to see a future when the parents are scrambling just trying to feed the kids, much less save a bit of money for things like a car, education, furniture. Jobs ?? Scarce at best. Poverty has to be addressed seriously ; without the usual politics and rhetoric.
I also believe that all leaders be they governmental , Metis or First nation, can all do a better job of seeing that some funds go directly to the people that are most needy.

posted by Derryl at 11:36 AM 0 Comments

Tuesday, February 20, 2007

Wildlife Groups Say Metis Didn't Win Case

Metis groups across the country were applauding the
recent court case that appeared to be a Metis hunting rights victory. On the contrary says two wildlife reps ;

Safari Club International Alberta Chapter (ABSCI) and Public ...
Toronto, ON, Canada 20, 2007) - Tired of reading claims that a recent Court of Queen's Bench decision grants extensive hunting and fishing rights to all Metis people, the Sierra Club wants to set the record straight.....

posted by Derryl at 12:31 PM 7 Comments

Thursday, February 15, 2007

Police and Prosecutors To Blame says The Driskell Inquiry

Donald Marshall, Dave Millgard, now you can add the name James Driskell to the list of those wrongly convicted of murder.
The inquiries' report was released this morning and the commissioner Patrick Lesage pointed fingers at top cop Jack Ewatski, crown prosecutors, and other members of the Winnipeg police force that were involved in the intentional or un-intentional "framing" of this man who spent years in prison.
These articles are a must read ;
BREAKING NEWS

Updated at 11:47 AM Police and prosecutors involved in the 1991 James Driskell wrongful conviction withheld evidence from the defence, conspired to mislead the jury and allowed a star witness to commit perjury, a judicial inquiry into the case has concluded. Inquiry commissioner Patrick LeSage in a scathing 187-page report released today, apologized to Driskell and strongly suggested Driskell be compensated for his 13 years behind bars.

posted by Derryl at 1:17 PM 2 Comments

Final Arguments in Métis Harvesting Case to be Heard

From The Metis Nation of Ontario ;
Legal Council, Jean Teillet and Jason Madden, will be making final arguments in the Métis Harvesting Rights Case of the Government of Ontario vs. Métis harvesters Laurin, Lemieux and Lemieux tomorrow morning, February 16th, 2007 at 10:00am at the Ontario Courtof Justice in North Bay.
MNO Executive and Métis Nation citizens are expected to fill the courtroom to hear the presentations by lawyers for the Crown and for the Métis Harvesters.
At issue is the obligation of the Government of Ontario to uphold the MNO/MNR Interim Harvesting Agreement, entered into on July 7th, 2004, between the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) and the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR).
This agreement was intended to respect and begin to implement the 2003 landmark decision of the Supreme Court of Canada in R. v. Powley.Contrary to the Government of Ontario's promise that MNO Harvesters, who are harvesting for food within their traditional territories would not be subject to enforcement procedures, charges have been laid against MNO Harvesters in select Métis Nation Traditional Harvesting Territories in areas south of Sudbury.

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posted by Derryl at 12:55 PM 0 Comments

Some Stories Of Note

Came across a few interesting news articles.
This first story is a concert promo for one of my cousins.
Lionel Desjarlais was one of the better artists on the local scene in the early '80s and it's nice to see him still playing.

Métis guitarist extraordinaire en route
Robson Valley Times, Canada - 22 hours ago Desjarlais has been playing for close to half a century.

An Edmonton politician has entered the Metis-EPS drug study scandal.
MLA demands answers
Edmonton Sun, Canada - 8 hours ago
They were joined by about 10 volunteers - about three men, the rest women, some of them prostitutes - who were clients of the Metis society.

And some news on education levels amoungst Aboriginal kids.
Aboriginal kids lag behind ... but there is help
Robson Valley Times, Canada - First, the Ministry of Education’s definition of aboriginal is extremely broad, including people of Metis descent, and status and non-status Indians. ...
Nicholson students learning culture Golden Star
all 2 news articles »

posted by Derryl at 11:24 AM 2 Comments

Wednesday, February 14, 2007

Winnipeg Firefighters Memorial




Updated at 10:04 AM With the sound of a massive pipe band, more than 1,000 uniformed firefighters and other emergency workers from across North America marched stonefaced into Winnipeg's MTS Centre to honour two fallen comrades. Memorial master of ceremonies Pat Martin, Winnipeg North-Centre MP, said the tribute to firefighters Capt. Tom Nichols and Capt. Harold Lessard should also be a salute to all emergency personnel in Canada.


posted by Derryl at 10:54 AM 0 Comments

Tuesday, February 13, 2007

Metis CFS Society Fires Back

Don't expect the social workers of The Edmonton Child and Family Services Society or the police to apologize anytime soon for the sex-trade worker, drug study.....on the contrary ; The workers are actually seeming to say "whats the big deal" They just don't get it.
In conversations with three social workers and/or community workers, they all agree that drugs are the main reason for the breakdowns in their clients personal and family lives. In addition, during my travels across the city and province, I have seen the effects of some of these substances up close...the sunken in faces of the users, the families devastated and sometimes even dying. All furniture sold, kids apprehended by the social agencies.....oops, then they go to an agency such as the Edmonton CFS....see.......the study just ain't right. The training study was held right at the MCFSE offices.
Interesting to note, the Edmonton Sun columnist Kerry Diotte, who broke the story, is Metis.
Below are a couple of links to articles relating to the MCFS sex worker-drug study, scandal. There is an interview with a participant of the study, in one of the articles, and a worker, who rounded up the guinea pig-like participants, who is still backing the study.

Drug experiment debated A Metis Child and Family Services worker who helped pick volunteers for a police experiment to determine the effects of drugs on drivers shot back at critics who say cops took advantage of vulnerable people. Full Story

Taking pot shots You have to have thick skin to be a journalist. But the reaction by police and some of my media colleagues to last Friday’s column appalled me. Full Column Kerry Diotte.

More news to come.

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posted by Derryl at 10:30 AM 2 Comments

Monday, February 12, 2007

White Mountain No More


Yeah I know, how can you talk global warming when we're experiencing the coldest weather Winnipeg has seen since the early , 90s ?? Well global warming is just that and the results of the temperature warming has been much more visible in these mountainous regions of the world. Article link below ;


posted by Derryl at 11:33 AM 0 Comments

Monday Musings

Good morning, and once again I have to comment on the weather. -33 this morning.....I hate it!!.....The Indian and Metis Friendship Centre's funding cuts are apparently going to be re-instated. Reports form various sources indicate that these are some of the changes that are going to be implemented.

1) Manitoba Association of Friendship Centre gets to appoint four members to the board of directors.
2) Four current BODs get to stay on.
3) Four members will be selected from the community.
4) Some or all staff are to be laid off, including the executive director Jeff Richard.
Well, it appears as tho MAC has gotten it's wish......they have finally wrested control of the only independent Friendship Centre in the Province. Without having a complete negative outlook on this successful hostile take-over, I trust that the services that were cut, can immediately be re-instated..............talked to a Duck Bay resident and Chartrand family member this weekend, and she shared with me her disgust with the nepotism and cronyism that exists within the Manitoba Metis Federation and it's affiliates. She also stated that this site is very informative and is good thing.........J.J. Lavallee is going to have fundraiser on February 11th.(CORRECTION !! The social is set for the 10th of MARCH...excuse the Monday fog. Thanks to a reader for pointing out my error.)
The back-up band will be none other than J.J.'s super talented uncle, Darren Lavallee and the Trapline band, the venue is the Indian and Metis Friendship centre...10 bucks and well worth it.......we must keep on top of this Alberta CFS issue that is currently unfolding, word is now they are saying "not all" were clients of MCFSE and they may or may not have been high....I expected better spin from the damage controllers. This should never happen again. Was this decision based on service delivery dollars ? It certainly is of no benefit to the people who are clients of a family service agency........here is an initial response from the Executive director of the MCFS society of Edmonton ;
"But Donald Langford, executive director of the Metis Society, which handled the recruiting of the volunteers, said he'd host the program again despite the controversy. "I think it was a good exercise."
......looks like their patting themselves on the back for the program.
Got an initial response from the Premier this morning in regards to an e mail I sent and will keep you abreast of any news........seeing as we're talking Premier Doer, the provincial election call could come soon and the hapless Conservatives and Hugh McFadyen are certainly not doing diddly to enhance their image....another N.D.P. majority.......keep warm and have great Monday.

posted by Derryl at 10:21 AM 7 Comments

Sunday, February 11, 2007

Prostitutes Were Clients Of MCFSE


I think one of the most sickening of issues that will arise out of the drug study involving prostitutes and others, that was organized and sanctioned by the Metis Child and Family services agency in Edmonton, is the fact that some of those utilized as guinea pigs were clients of this agency. One has to surmise that to be a client of the Metis Child agency, you must have some personal issues ; I.E children were apprehended or the person would access whatever program the MCFS has to offer regularly. So here were talking about our own people, who are supposed to help reconcile families or help families in distress, encouraging their clients to take legal or illegal substances. From conversations I have had with child care professionals, they have stated that alcohol and drug abuse are the main evils that the child agencies have deal with when attempting to aid families. What the Alberta Metis and the Edmonton police force have done borders on the criminal and is most certainly morally reprehensible.
There is no blame to be placed...both the MCFSE and the EPS have apologies and damage control to conduct............how much were the honorariums for these poor souls, plying the poor with money and drugs...good one...shame on the Metis Child and family services of Edmonton.

Below are two more articles dealing with this scandal.
Cops slammed for observing stoned addicts; deputy chief defends ...

Canoe.ca - CanadaThey were joined by about 10 volunteers -- about three men, the rest women, some of them prostitutes -- who were "clients" of the Metis society.
The Mounties also claimed that the subjects did not do drugs in front of the cops, were high when they arrived and were clients of the Metis society. ...

posted by Derryl at 4:02 AM 0 Comments

Friday, February 09, 2007

Pink Floyd - Comfortably Numb



Enjoy a classic from their show in '90....my band loves doing this tune.

posted by Derryl at 2:54 PM 2 Comments

Have Fun Guys

The Manitoba Moose are doing something truly great....they have given away tickets to the Moose game to Aboriginal Youth who wouldn't otherwise have the opportunity.

Kudos to the Manitoba Moose and all of the sponsors involved in this wonderful night.

posted by Derryl at 2:48 PM 0 Comments

Documents Delivered To The Media


Once again, this time due to an apparent blacklisting by the Manitoba Metis Federation and lack of interest by a Provincial government official, I am forced to contact the media in relation to documents dropped off at my residence.

For months I have been attempting to contact the MMF to find out what would happen if I was sent files pertaining to the MMF or its' affiliates....no response.

I finally got fed up after contacting the NDP deputy minister of northern affairs, Harvey Bostrom a few weeks ago. During a phone conversation that lasted approximately twenty minutes, I relayed the info relating to the MCFS files and other issues in the Metis community regarding the MMF. Upon hearing nothing back from his department, I had to take the measures necessary to rid myself of documents I didn't want.

What is the the reason behind my only asking the MMF "what if documents surfaced" as opposed to "I have documents"......Last year when MMF-related documents were dropped off in my mailbox, President of the closed door agency, David Chartrand, insinuated live on an NCI-FM radio program The Metis Hour X Two, that I was connected to stolen documents. He knew full well that the files were never stolen and that a leak had occurred within his office.....and he purposely neglected to tell the listeners that I had attempted to contact the MMF days before he took the unusual measure of phoning the Winnipeg police to report a theft. Detectives visited my house, I willingly gave them the documents and the police never did contact me again regarding this laughable "theft" notion.

I don't need my name slandered once again so I took more precautions this time around and dropped off the files at The Winnipeg Sun....nobody else wanted them.

There are photocopied checks totally in excess of $ 200,000 from MCFS made out to the MMF....MCFS ; a supposed "arms-length affiliate of the corporation.......maybe there's nothing to those cheques and other documents in the package, but I have to ask the sender...what was so important in there that you felt you had to give them to somebody ?...I'll let the professionals figure that one out.

posted by Derryl at 1:53 PM 11 Comments

Metis Prostitutes Get High From Police and MCFS ?

This story is very troubling ;

The Edmonton Police Service has launched an internal investigation into allegations that aboriginal sex-trade workers were recruited to get high on drugs so they could be studied by cops in a training exercise.
Full Story


It seems that the Metis Child and Family Services Society Edmonton, and the Edmonton police force, are involved in a program that victimizes these workers once again. These sex-trade workers were reportedly given unknown intoxicants, so they can be utilized as guinea pigs...the cops and the agency would watch how they react when these people got high....good plan......absolute sarcasm intended.

posted by Derryl at 12:47 PM 1 Comments

Thursday, February 08, 2007

Waylon Jennings - Are You Sure Hank



Classic rebel country...yeah baby !!

posted by Derryl at 6:50 PM 1 Comments

Westbrook Inn, Home of Country-Rock


We're at the Brooklands-area landmark once again this weekend and the first show starts at 10:00 pm tonite....hope to see some blog readers again this weekend.
By the way, we perform music from artists such as Hank Sr., Waylon Jennings to Pink Floyd and the Stones.


posted by Derryl at 6:35 PM 0 Comments

Anna Nicole Dead at 39


This lady has been in the headlines more than most celebrities and her death has shocked many.

The Associated Press

HOLLYWOOD, Fla. -- Anna Nicole Smith, the pneumatic blonde whose life played out as an extraordinary tabloid tale — Playboy centerfold, jeans model, bride of an octogenarian oil tycoon, reality-show subject, tragic mother — died Thursday after collapsing at a hotel. She was 39.
She was stricken while staying at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino and was rushed to a hospital. Edwina Johnson, chief investigator for the Broward County Medical Examiner's Office, said the cause of death was under investigation and an autopsy would be done on Friday.
Just five months ago, Smith's 20-year-old son died suddenly in the Bahamas in what was believed to be a drug-related death.
Through the '90s and into the new century, Smith was famous for being famous, a pop-culture punchline because of her up-and-down weight, her Marilyn Monroe looks, her exaggerated curves, her little-girl voice, her ditzy-blonde persona, and her over-the-top revealing outfits.
Recently, she lost a reported 69 pounds and became a spokeswoman for TrimSpa, a weight-loss supplement. On her reality show and other recent TV appearances, her speech was often slurred and she seemed out of it. Some critics said she seemed drugged-out.

posted by Derryl at 6:29 PM 0 Comments

Wednesday, February 07, 2007

Sherry St Germain and Kush



Great live performance featuring the daughter of legendary Metis singer, Ray St. Germain

posted by Derryl at 1:17 PM 0 Comments

Thundervoice News Reports on The IMFC

This is a long, but very important article to read if you want to keep on top of the IMFC story.
Reporter Mark Watson lays out the issues for all to read......as I have stated earlier, and Mark sums up my feelings in the article ; that the Manitoba Assoc. of Friendship Centres seems to be in cahoots with factions in the Metis (MMF) community. The proof is in the names connected to the take-over attempt. NDPer and deputy minister of Northern Affairs Harvey Bostrom's name also figures in prominantly.

The Indian & Metis Friendship Centre of Winnipeg - A friend in need
By MARK WATSON

The Indian & Metis Friendship Centre of Winnipeg has operated under the single and driven purpose of being a friend when one is needed since its very inception half a century ago as the first resource center of its kind. Its original mandate of providing much needed services to Aboriginal people in the pertinent areas of employment counseling, housing, and serving as a place to meet and and mutually support one another has since evolved into a plethora of services and an informed conduit to many other services that are provided by other agencies.
The IMFC is no stranger to adversity, having carved a trail through a veritable jungle of it during its fifty years of existence, but it is now facing adversity of a different kind. The Manitoba Association of Friendship Centres, (MAC), has with-held IMFC funding, citing invalidated governance issues, and United Way, an additional source of significant funding, has followed suit, evidently acting upon the misgivings of MAC.
Each of the eleven Friendship Centres in Manitoba are funded by the Department of Canadian Heritage through the Aboriginal Friendship Centre Program (AFCP) which is administered by the National Association of Friendship Centres. MAC's role is to act as the liaison and facilitator of the process for providing funding from the AFCP to the individual Friendship Centres in Manitoba.
Although the IMFC has received no funding from MAC since June of 2006, no reason has been offered for the funding freeze until January 9 of this year, when the IMFC received a letter from MAC, dated December 3, 2006, informing them that funding would ensue following the desolation of the current IMFC member-voted Board of Directors and the subsequent replacement of this Board by a MAC appointed Board. The reason for the funding cessation and demand for a complete replacement of the IMFC Board of Directors, concerns regarding governance, was vague at best. No specific concerns were detailed, nor were any potential candidates for the replacement IMFC Board of Directors named. IMFC President Violet Nelson, Vice-President Victor Colonval, and Executive Director Jeff Richard, as well as IMFC staff and the throngs of people who utilize the Centre's many services and programs, were still effectively being kept in the dark.
I have contacted Ella Mayer, the Provincial Coordinator of MAC for comment but was told that, other than informing me that the MAC Board of Directors is working with the IMFC Board of Directors to resolve the funding issue, she is constitutionally not at liberty to comment further on the matter. She did, however, request that I send her a list of my queries which she would forward to MAC President, Sheena Reed, for review and that she would get back to me as soon as possible. I did just that and received an email the following morning in response to my queries.
Journalistic integrity dictates that Thundervoice News portrays both sides of this issue so the following is a brief Q & A between TVN and MAC.
TVN:Could you detail some specific concerns regarding IMFC of W governance?
MAC': The concerns regarding IMFC governance have been shared with IMFC and representatives, NAFC, and funding sources. Issues include financial reporting and accountability, ongoing financial management deficiencies, membership issues, and legality of the IMFC AGM. These matters were discussed during a meeting on January 27, 2007, between IMFC representatives and 2 MAC Executive Committee members. MAC has attempted to address these problems long before Jan 27, 2007 with no positive result, and the latter being the only request we received for a joint meeting.
Isn't it remarkable how many words MAC uses to say nothing at all? - MW
TVN: Could you clarify MAC's position regarding the requested replacement of the current IMFC of W's Board of Directors with a Board that would appear to be MAC appointed?
MAC: No comment at this time, as this matter is still in discussion only.
Is it just me or does comment appear to support public suspicion of a hostile take-over of Winnipeg's Friendship Centre? - MW
TVN: Could you please explain why MAC's governance concerns regarding the IMFC of W resulted in a cessation of funding despite the lack of any substantiated evidence to that affect and despite the lack of any details supporting this allegation being offered to the IMFC of W?
MAC: MAC has responsibility and duty to deliver funding under the terms and conditions of the AFCP Criteria and Guidelines and the Aboriginal Peoples Program accountability framework. Currently, 10 out of 11 Centers operate very well within the same requirements that IMFC should also be operating within. When the terms and conditions of these guidelines or financial management practices regarding funding requirements are not being met, a continuum of consequences may ensue, from written demand for compliance to withholding of funding. Written material and supporting documents regarding the MAC decisions regarding IMFC have been provided to the MAC Board, provincial government, NAFC and to IMFC representatives. It is important to note that neither MAC nor NAFC had any control or decision making in the United Way withdrawing their funding. IMFC was given every opportunity by the United Way to conform to policies and procedures.
Again, many words without a direct answer to the question. Well, it takes more steps to walk around something than it does to walk directly to it I guess. I spoke to an elder outside the Friendship Centre today about this and his response was brusk yet very apt. He said: " Don't piss down our backs and tell us it's raining." Then he ambled off looking a little disgruntled. The IMFC of Winnipeg has received none of the funding which MAC is responsible for allocating since June, 2006.- MW
TVN: Is there any particular reason why there has been no press conferences called regarding this issue which so dramatically affects the public, specifically those who rely upon the IMFC of W's services and programs?
MAC: MAC did not feel a press conference was the appropriate forum to address these issues. These matters were and continue to be addressed with IMFC and its representatives, and the funding and regulatory bodies of the Friendship Centre movement.
Keeping it all in the family huh? Isn't that what an abusive partner's first order of business is in a domestic situation as well? I would imagine that the people who are most drastically effected by this issue, namely, the under privileged citizens who have relied upon services that have now been shelved due to the funding freeze, have every right to know what's going on. The lack of a formal press conference or even a simple press release to illuminate these people is derelict in MAC's responsibility and obligation to them. The Friendship Centres are, after all, about these people are they not?- MW
The IMFC President-Violet Nelson, Vice-President-Victor Colonval, Executive Director-Jeff Richard, Executive Assistant-Kelly McAuley, Treasurer-Darrell Sais and Board of Directors - Dominique Krebrat, Beryl Bouvette, Geraldine Pelletier, Herb Smitth and Judy Pangman met with MAC representatives Ella Mayer, President-Sheena Reed, Joan Church and Finance Officer-Barbara Hoogstraten on January 27 to discuss the funding issue and concerns relating to IMFC governance.
"MAC will provide the IMFC with a list of concerns and an action plan by February 5 and the IMFC will act accordingly," offered IMFC Executive Director Jeff Richard when queried about the outcome of this meeting, then he added: "I would like to offer our gratitude and heartfelt appreciation to Rod Bruinooge, Honourable George Hicks, Honourable Jon Gerrard, Doug Martindale and Judy Wasylycia-Leis for their unwavering support during these troubling times."
Winnipeg Metis blogger/political activist and musician Derryl Sanderson is hugely outspoken in his support of the IMFC of Winnipeg.
"It's abundantly clear that the people who rely on the IMFC's services and programs are casualties of war in a power struggle that appears to be nothing less than a hostile take-over attempt," asserts Sanderson. "MAC has not validated, nor even defined any of their oblique allegations and yet they've halted funding based on what? Misgivings and conjecture without substance? Meanwhile several IMFC programs have been shelved due to lack of funding and, as usual, it's the little guy who pays the price."
For ongoing updates on this and many other stories, Derryl Sanderson's Metis News & Stuff blog can be accessed online at derrylsanderson.blogspot.com.
There have been rumors of a rally being organized in the very near future in support of the IMFC's struggle with MAC's funding freeze.
"I can neither confirm nor deny any such (support rally) rumors at this time," says IMFC Executive Director Jeff Richard. "All I can say is that no option that could help facilitate the return of essential funding in order to re-instate programs and services for those who rely on the Friendship Centre is being ruled out."
There are more than a few creased brows among those who have utilized the many services and programs offered by Canada's first Friendship Centre concerning MAC's hard-line position against the IMFC of Winnipeg's current governance. In light of the substantial growth in programs and services which have been initiated and facilitated by the current IMFC Board of Directors, many people are left scratching their heads in consternation over the funding freeze that has been imposed due to 'governance issues'.
Among the numerous innovative initiatives set in motion under the IMFC of Winnipeg's current Board are the Aboriginal Girl Guides, (The IMFC was the first facility to provide the Aboriginal Girl Guide program which has since expanded to four other units in the city of Winnipeg); the Family Resource Room, (formerly an IMFC board room this multi-faceted program offers a lending library, family computer, public telephone, sewing machine, laundry facilities, a family playroom with games, a free haircut program, clothing giveaway and employment assistance), Aboriginal Elders Program providing a meeting place for Elders to interact, a nutritious lunch, and resources and access to services they require on every second Monday, (additionally, a Community Outreach Program is currently being developed to assist elders and provide transportation to medical appointments, grocery shopping, etc.), and the Birthday Book Program, (a volunteer-run program developed by F.A.C.T. Coalition in partnership with the IMFC of Winnipeg which provides a birthday book to every child enrolled in North End/Point Douglas area elementary school and day care facility). The IMFC of Winnipeg is also developing a sister program for the Healthy Baby Program, which has been enjoying great success and growth over the last decade. This new program, called the Little Tots and Toddlers Program, is intended to be the next step for children graduating from the Healthy Baby Program and is currently being developed along with other Parent/Child programs. The IMFC of Winnipeg has also provided free beds (plus free delivery to those who require it) through their Free Bed Program to approximately 600 community members. Christmas parties for both children and elders have been provided through donations and IMFC funding including dinner and gifts for every child and elder in attendance, (Nearly 500 children and nearly 50 elders at these respective events). The IMFC Hall has been utilized in a greater capacity than ever before for fundraising events dedicated to raising funds not only for the Friendship Centre's many programs and services but also for ailing community members to raise funds for medical costs. Additionally the Hall is donated for other community oriented events such as the annual Oyate Tipi 2 Day Yard Sale (which raises money for Oyate Tipi Programs), and for weekly Ma Mawi Wi Chi Itata Pow Wow practices.
In light of all these and numerous other innovative program and service initiatives that have been spear headed under the current leadership of the IMFC of Winnipeg, it is difficult to understand just exactly what MAC's 'governance concerns' are pertaining to. Even in the wake of this funding freeze which has resulted in the lay offs of several staff members who are not just work mates, but close friends, the skeleton crew that remains at Winnipeg's Friendship Centre has been valiantly striving to salvage programs for the community which has come to rely upon them. One such program that has been rescued through the combined volunteer efforts of community as well as the very board members that MAC would see replaced is the drop-in supper program. With the supplies donated by Winnipeg Harvest and prepared and served by selfless volunteers the IMFC has managed to re-instate this valuable community resource.
"Getting the meat we need has proven to be a bit of a task," admitted Shirley Cyr, one of the volunteers. "But we're managing. It's very important to keep feeding our community's children and well worth the effort. I couldn't think of a better cause."
I can. Let's get this funding debacle over with and let the IMFC of Winnipeg get back to doing what it does best, being a friend when one is needed.

Thanks for the "community first" attitude at Thundervoice News.

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posted by Derryl at 9:01 AM 7 Comments

Tuesday, February 06, 2007

Winnipeg Heroes Mourned


Prayers and condolences to the heroic firefighters and their families.
Capt. Harold Lessard, 55, and Capt. Thomas Nichols, 57, who perished, and the other firefighters who were injured in this tragic house fire, are true heroes.
This story has saddened my family and the entire nation.
Some articles below ;

Winnipeg fire crew mourns deaths - Calgary Sun - 8 hours ago
Two die fighting Winnipeg house fire - Globe and Mail - 5 Feb 2007

posted by Derryl at 10:57 AM 0 Comments

Harper's One Year Anniversary


It's gone by fairly quickly, but 365 days have passed since the Conservatives were elected to a governing minority position.
There have been some excellent initiatives and some that have failed miserably.
The residential school survivors compensation plan has now been sent to the courts, the government is hedging on the legal fees that are to be paid to lawyer Tony Merchant...49 MILLION dollars..... thereby holding up any final payments that the survivors should receive. I hope for a speedy resolution in the courts that will enable the financial compensation for the many thousands that suffered at the hands of the government.
The environment is now to be taken very seriously after the negative press given to former environment Minister Rona Ambrose's failed attempt to tackle the issue....cost her the portfolio. Look for good things from the new minster in charge. Financial accountability in government seems to be on the Conservatives' agenda constantly and that's another good thing.
Happy anniversary Prime Minister, hope the "mini throne speech" inspires.

As the first anniversary of his government approached, Prime Minister Stephen Harper sat down in his Centre Block office for a conversation with Policy ...

posted by Derryl at 10:31 AM 0 Comments

Metis News For Those Interested in Healthcare

Media advisory - Métis Nation prepares for launch of Multi Million Dollar Health and Human Resources Initiative

OTTAWA, Feb. 5 /CNW Telbec/ - On behalf of the Métis National Council,
our Governing Members and Health Canada - all media are invited to the
following:

PRESS CONFERENCE
Where: Crown Plaza Hotel
101 Lyon Street
Ottawa, ON
(Pinnacle Room - PH floor)
When: Tuesday, Feb. 6th, 2007
Time: 08:15 am - 08:45 am
Who: Federal Health Minister Tony Clement and
Métis National Council Minister in charge of Health
David Chartrand
What: Launch of Métis specific HHRI
for students interested in a career in Health care!

IMPORTANT UPDATE !!
Below is a link to the full press release, just released.

Canada's New Government Announces Health Human Resources Initiative with the Métis Nation

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posted by Derryl at 10:24 AM 3 Comments

Monday, February 05, 2007

Norway House Trip

Visited the northern community of Norway House last weekend and got some great pics of the band and other stuff.
Hi to all the staff at the Playgreen Inn and thanks to Jeff, for the fine hospitality during our stint.
Hello also to big-time Waylon Jennings fan, Lester ; Hector Menow for the rig and Darryl Menow who played bass for the weekend and did a super job of learning tunes right on the spot.
Man it was cold...still is here in Manitoba.
By the way, before anyone starts saying "where's the global warming ?.... in speaking with a long time resident of Norway House, he tells me the ice used to get to six feet in thickness during the winter "back then"....never more than four feet nowadays. A wonderful elder from Grand Rapids also tells of yearly massive snowfall amounts that would enable the kids to jump off the roof of houses.
Weather patterns are what count....not two weeks.
Anywho, here's some memories from Norway House ;



See ya in April, Norway House !!

posted by Derryl at 2:07 PM 1 Comments

Saskatchewan Metis Election Plan Scrapped

Hope of an electing any form of Metis political representation for the Metis people of Saskatchewan has vanished almost as quickly as the plan was introduced. The feds in Ottawa and the government of Saskatchewan has pulled out of talks that were aimed at conducting an election that was tentatively set for the fall or winter of this year.
Three links to articles below ;


Sask., federal governments withdraw from Métis election plan
Ottawa, province withdraw support for Metis election
Metis election won't go ahead


The government is obviously proceeding with all caution, considering ten people were charged with fraud and forgery during the last Metis Nation of Saskatchewan election.
The funds for education and other programs are continuing to flow for the Metis people, just not to the MNS.

posted by Derryl at 1:37 PM 0 Comments

Alberta Metis Hunting Rights



A writer from the Brooks bulletin has laid out some questions for the new Minister of Sustainable development, Ted Morton, as he begins the process of determining what the province is going to do with the Metis hunting agreement.

Brooks Bulletin - Brooks, Alberta, Canada.
1. “Complete the Land Use Framework to address conflicts over competing use of land and provide a vision for an integrated sustainable land use approach that balances economic, environmental and social concerns.”

2. “Implement an aggressive strategy to protect the health of Alberta’s forests.”

3. “Develop a Biodiversity Strategy to conserve biological diversity and enable sound management of Alberta’s natural resources on a sustainable basis.” The problems with such specific orders from headquarters are that they may divert a good minister from addressing serious problems that have arisen in the past two decades, particularly in the fish and wildlife division, or at least tax his ingenuity to include solving those problems in the premier’s mandates. Does mandate number one, for example, include staunching the festering wound of “cowboy welfare” that has oozed public money into private hands for far too long? At issue is the Alberta policy of permitting grazing leaseholders of public land to collect payments from resource companies for surface disturbance to those public lands from wellsites, pipelines, etc. Nobody has ever come to grips with exactly how many millions of dollars are lost annually from the public purse by this boondoggle, but three public hearing reports have recommended at least that the practice be reviewed. Certainly if you believe that “sustainable development” means that money earned by public land should go back into the protection, maintenance and improvement of that public land, then, by giving it away, we are jeopardizing the future of one of our prime and enduring renewable resources and cheating future Albertans. But nothing happens, except that the public’s recreational access to its own land has become steadily more difficult and public land continues to be sold off at an accelerating rate, both developments contrary to the recommendation of report after report. There may not be enough room to wiggle it into the premier’s mandates, but the ultimate boss, the public will demand Mr. Morton deal with yet another languishing report: the one recommending substantial changes to the Interim Metis Harvesting Agreements that gave overly-generous rights of year ‘round unlicenced hunting and fishing to people recognizable as Metis by their own organizations.The persistent government answer to this one is that matters are “under negotiation.” What’s to negotiate? The “agreements” were imposed without negotiation with anyone; the majority of signatories are Metis, one of whom, Mike Cardinal, was a former SRD minister. Deal with the report and the mess, Mr. Minister.

Doesn't sound like he supports the deal.

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posted by Derryl at 1:23 PM 2 Comments