Metis News and Stuff

MNC 2009 General Assembly

2009-11-04T18:13:00.002-06:00

From the Metis National Council

http://www.metisnation.ca/PDF-May2009/MNC%202009%20General%20Assembly%20Announcement.pdf
Ottawa, ON -- The Métis National Council (MNC) will be hosting its 2009 General Assembly on November 21 – 22, 2009, in Vancouver, BC.
“The General Assembly is very important for Métis Nation citizens,” said MNC President Clément Chartier.
“Democratically elected representatives from across the homeland will be coming together to debate and decide the future agenda of the Métis Nation in Canada.”
General Assembly delegates are representatives from the MNC’s Governing Members; the Métis Nation British Columbia, the Métis Nation of Alberta, Métis Nation – Saskatchewan, the Manitoba Métis Federation, and the Métis Nation of Ontario. All representatives are democratically elected by province wide ballot box elections.
President Chartier will begin the 2-day Assembly with his “State of the Nation” address, which will set the stage for discussions on the challenges and opportunities facing the Métis Nation.
Major topics of discussion will include the continuing cooperative work with the Federal Government under the Métis Nation Protocol, the implementation of Métis rights, and Métis Nation participation at the 2010 Vancouver Winter Games.
All Métis Nation citizens are invited to observe the General Assembly. It will be held Nov. 21 – 22, 2009 at the Renaissance Vancouver Hotel Harbourside, 1133 West Hasting St., Vancouver, BC.

For more information contact Greg Taylor, MNC Communications, at (613) 296-9263 or gregt@metisnation.ca

Saskatchewan Metis Host Membership Drive

2009-11-03T11:48:00.003-06:00

After the bitter infighting and eventual criminal charges relating to voter fraud, I truly believe the Métis Nation Saskatchewan is on the right path.

President Robert Doucette has been displaying unprecedented openness as he tries to right the relationships between the Metis people of Saskatchewan, the governments and the MNS

"The Year of The Métis" by Province of Saskatchewan

These membership drives are very important to a recovering Metis Nation of Saskatchewan ;

Greg Lawrence, Southern Plains Métis Local 160 president, told the Times-Herald the Métis Nation Saskatchewan (MNS) executives coming to Moose Jaw would be the same as Premier Brad Wall coming to Moose Jaw and the fact this organization is making its first presence locally after two years is a big deal.

Do you want to know if you qualify for Métis status? Are you curious about what in required in order to register as a Métis person and attain legal documentation? If so, then perhaps you should attend the Métis registration information meeting in the Heritage Inn at 7 p.m. on Nov. 9.

As such, he encourages anyone in the Friendly City with Métis registration questions to attend the upcoming information session.

“Everybody. We want everybody from the local (area) to be there."

Address ;

Southern Plains Metis Local #160 Inc; 35 C Ominica St W,; Moose Jaw, SK; S6H 1W8
Telephone
(306) 693-4004
Fax
(306) 693-4004

Why Didn't They Just Donate The Cash To The Metis Vets ?

2009-11-02T13:03:00.002-06:00

A thought came to mind after Frank sent this next e mail....instead of spending the supposed donated cash in sending the MMF execs, board members and spouses, why not contribute that very cash directly to the Maniotba Metis vets ??
Do you think Oliver Boulette or Don Roulette's attendance is absolutely neccessary ?
How about Dave Chartrand's wife ? His assistant Cindy Miller ?

Frank Godon has left a new comment on your post "Monday Metis Musings":

Derryl - you left out something very important - the article states

"Veterans Affairs Canada pitched in $80,000 for travel and setting up the Métis exhibit, which volunteers from Manitoba assembled in October. Chartrand said they've nearly matched the amount received from the government by fundraising in their communities so more Métis,including young fiddlers and square dancers, can attend the unveiling of the exhibit."

Common sense tells me that $160,000 has been earmarked for this trip with $80,000 coming from veterans affairs for the veterans - so with only 3 veterans going that breaks down to $26,666.67 per veteran - hmmm I don't think my father received anything near that!!!

And if they as David stated "nearly matched the amount received from the government by fundraising in their communities so more Métis,including young fiddlers and square dancers, can attend the unveiling of the exhibit." then each of the fiddlers (3) and square dancers (10) should get about $6,153.85 each for this trip - maybe someone can contact one of these performers and ask them if they got that much.

We all know this is bullshit - none of these executives are paying their way - and if they are then they can prove me wrong by submitting the paper work that shows where the money from Veterans Affairs is going, and the money that they raised is going! THEY WON'T BECAUSE THEY CAN'T!!!

By the emails I've received I'm not a popular guy with the office right now and I wonder if David won't try to throw me out of the plane somewhere between Toronto and Paris. )))))

Monday Metis Musings

2009-11-02T09:20:00.004-06:00

Good morning......no snow so far and thats' a good thing. Well, I noticed this morning that the Winnipeg Free Press ran an article on the Manitoba Metis Federation's upcoming trip to Juno Beach.
Métis veterans honoured at last is an interesting read. I particularly noticed this paragraph;

"The exhibit highlights the history of the Métis in Canada and includes a Red River cart. The symbol of Canada's Métis will accompany the veterans and Métis youth during Remembrance Day events at Juno Beach this year. Close to 50 people are leaving Nov. 8, with just a handful of the elderly Juno Beach veterans able to attend."

According to the trip itinerary , the number of Metis vets is closer to three with chaperones. Dancers and entertainers amount to 10 attendees with the remaining 31 comprised of MMF staffers, board members and their spouses. One of those trips for the chosen few. I wonder why President Chartrand failed to mention that a majority of those going are board members, MMF executives and their spouses ??............alright, now to the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and their pathetic display of football ability yesterday against the Montreal Alouettes ; We will not win the Grey this year, we should beat Hamilton this weekend in front of maybe 23,000 fans at CanadInns stadium but to have hopes that the Blue and Gold have a chance to compete for the championship is nonsense. Quarterback Michael Bishop has proven to be erratic and without a lick of football sense ; Coach Kelley is an ignorant man who should be gone next year. His rant against Bob Irving of CJOB news is nothing short of stupid ; Mike Kelly Explodes on CJOB (AUDIO) He has since apologized to the fans but I for one will be either watching this weekends' game on TV, or listening to CJOB and the always classy, Bob Irving.........thanks for participating in the H1N1 poll that is on the sidebar of this site. The poll is tracking numbers that suggest up to 80% will not take the H1N1 Influenza Vaccine.

I am not going to getting the shot at this point. My concerns echo that of others who are concerned about the speed of which the vaccine got to market. Do what you will but 7 of my family are opting out..........The Métis National Council will be holding its AGM but you would never know it from their website. MN & S has learned that the meeting will take place on the 21-22. Will this traditionally secretive group, let Metis citizens what the heck they're up to ??............A Coalition of Concerned Metis Citizens has popped up in British Columbia where it seems President Dumont is never without his detractors. Daryl Piper, who is the coalition's spokesperson, is touting the CCMC as the official opposition of The MNBC. In other MNBC news, my distant cousin Colin Sanderson was selected by some MNA insiders as an Olympic torch carrier. He will be carrying the torch at the end of January.......The Aboriginal Peoples Choice Music Awards are going to be held this weekend at the MTS Centre on November the 6th. Bid name artists like George Canyon and Buffy St. Marie are headlining this celebration of Aboriginal talent in the music business........In other Aboriginal music news, a new Manitoba Aboriginal music collective has been created ;NEECHIE MUSICIANS ASSOCIATION has been put together by local Aboriginal blues veteran Billy Jo Green. Not sure if I support a group that wants to according to their website, combat "bigotry and racism" in the business...Huh ? I have found that in the music business, if you're good enough. you play, if not, your on the outside.
stay warm and stay flu bug free !!!

More H1N1 Info - Metis Comment

2009-10-30T14:05:00.001-05:00

Frank has been sharing some very interesting facts on the H1N1 vaccine ;

Frank Godon has left a new comment on your post "H1N1 - Fears and Concerns ? Canada's Chief Medic S...":

Just found this one http://www.thelocal.se/22846/20091024/

Deaths in Sweden linked to "Vaccine" and 190 with severe side effects

some good youtube videos
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ABy6FXB8TMI&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WBj-oNqKaqA&NR=1

Please make an educated decision concerning this flu shot - My pregnant wife isn't getting it and neither is my 2 yr old daughter. And of course neither am I. ))))

We're Number 1 !! Winnipeg Homicide Capital Of Canada...again

2009-10-29T13:27:00.002-05:00

We hit the heights again.
Until the politicians and community leaders decide that action is what is needed to combat this problem, we can expect to retain this dubious distinction for years to come ;

Winnipeg keeps title as nation's homicide capital Winnipeg Free Pres

Winnipeg still murder capital Canoe.ca

Winnipeg Free Press

all 48 news articles »

I Know Who Killed Me

H1N1 - Fears and Concerns ? Canada's Chief Medic Says "safe"

2009-10-28T14:16:00.002-05:00

With nationwide H1N1 vaccines starting this month, health officials are trying to debunk myths surrounding the virus.

Although Health Canada approved the vaccine one week ago, according to a Decima poll the number of Canadians planning to get the vaccine fell from 45 per cent in August to one-third.

“Some are worried about either vaccine efficacy or possible side effects, even though we’ve got the message out there to reassure them that all scientific checks and balances have been compiled with,” Dr. Anne Doig, president of the Canadian Medical Association told Sun Media.

According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, the country is confident in the safety and efficacy of the vaccine, and while it was approved on preliminary clinical trial data, scientific evidence shows the adjuvanted vaccine is safe. Through early clinical trials, the PHAC learned adults immunized for H1N1 flu developed a strong immune response within 21 days of receiving one dose and receiving a seasonal flu vaccine does not affect the immunity of the H1N1 vaccine. In addition, children immunized with the unadjuvanted H1N1 flu vaccine got developed a low level of immunity after one dose so two-half doses of adjuvanted vaccine is recommended.

Clinical trials found the most common reaction from the vaccine included pain, swelling and redness at the injection site, as well as fatigue, muscle and joint pain and headache.

But Dr. David Butler-Jones, Canada’s chief medical health officer said the vaccine is the best way to protect our health and the health of our loved ones.

Métis Nation of Alberta Mourns Loss of Senator Ed Head

2009-10-28T13:46:00.000-05:00

(Edmonton) – The Métis Nation of Alberta is saddened by the news of the passing of Manitoba Métis Federation Senator Ed Head who was an outspoken advocate for Métis people across Canada.

“Senator Head was a strong leader of the Métis people in Manitoba,” said Audrey Poitras, President of the Métis Nation of Alberta. “He was also a support and an advisor for many leaders throughout the Métis Nation. I would like to send condolences to his family and the Métis community in Manitoba on behalf of the Métis Nation of Alberta. Senator Head was a well-respected and concerned leader who was always there to help.”

Senator Head was a founder of the Manitoba Métis Federation and devoted his life to the betterment of Métis people in Canada. He advocated passionately for Métis land claims and harvesting rights. Senator Head passed away yesterday morning surrounded by family at the age of 78.

“The passing of Senator Head is a great loss for Métis people across Canada, he was a great visionary who will be greatly missed” said Poitras.

For further information, contact:
Charity Sokolan
(780) 455-2200
csokolan@metis.org

Senator Ed Head....R.I.P.

2009-10-27T19:41:00.002-05:00

WINNIPEG - Edward Head, a founder and former president of the Manitoba Métis Federation, died this morning. He was 78.

David Chartrand, MMF president, announced Head’s death.

"Senator Head was a great rock in vigorously forwarding Métis issues throughout the homeland," Chartrand said in a prepared statement.

According to an MMF biography, Head had worked as a trapper, diamond driller and guide before becoming involved in Métis politics. Along with Don McIvor, he founded Native Communications Inc.

Head was elected president of the MMF in 1975.

Head was given the title of Senator by the MMF in 2004 for his service to the Métis nation.

An MMF spokesman said that Head had been battling a serious illness for several years.

MNBC Announces New CFS Minister

2009-10-27T01:07:00.004-05:00

Vancouver, BC – Métis Nation British Columbia’s President Mr. Bruce R Dumont announces today the newly appointed Minister Responsible for Child & Family Sevices with the MNBC . “We are very fortunate to have Lissa Smith, Director for Vancouver Island and Minister responsible for Veterans take on this new challenge as the Minister responsible for Child and Family Services at

MNBC,” stated President Dumont. “Minister Smith has a very diverse background as well as extensive professional

work experience in the Social Work and Human Resources area that will compliment the need and responsibilities this Ministry requires”.“I am very humbled and honored to have been appointed as the Minister responsible for Child and Family Services,” said Minister Smith, in response to her recent appointment.

Minister Smith was appointed to the Métis Nation British Columbia Board of Directors in November 2007, as interim Vancouver Island Regional Representative, and subsequently ran and was elected in September 2008 as the Regional Director for Vancouver Island, Gulf Islands and Powell River Region of the Métis Nation British Columbia. Minister Smith was appointed as the Minister Responsible for Métis Veterans in October 2008, a position she has been very honored to serve, and continues to support Métis Veterans as Minister, in addition to her new appointment.

Ontario Government To Host Aboriginal Summit

2009-10-27T00:58:00.002-05:00

TORONTO — Federal, provincial and territorial ministers will gather this coming Thursday for a summit on aboriginal issues that's being billed as the first of its kind in Canada.

Ontario Aboriginal Affairs Minister Brad Duguid is hosting the one-day meeting in Toronto, which has been in the works for about a year.

His federal counterpart, Indian and Northern Affairs Minister Chuck Strahl, is also expected to attend along with leaders from five national aboriginal organizations.

The conference will focus on education and economic issues with the goal of sharing ideas, pulling together a common plan to improve the lives of First Nations, Inuit and Metis peoples and push for more action from Ottawa, he said.

The federal government has jurisdiction over aboriginal matters and the provinces aren't trying to take over that responsibility, he said.

"None of us could afford to if we wanted to," Duguid said. "What we're suggesting is that we need to work together, and we cannot allow the status quo to continue."

Underfunding in Ontario, for example, means $2,000 to $9,000 less goes to an aboriginal child who attends a school on a reserve than to a non-aboriginal child who attends a public school, he said.

That's "unacceptable," he said. But there are ways the provinces and Ottawa can work together to improve the quality of education for aboriginal people.

"I think there's a growing recognition among the provinces that while we don't have jurisdiction for many of these issues - at least, complete jurisdiction - we are faced with the challenge of facing the repercussions of actions not taken," Duguid said.

The meeting was put together after Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty called on Prime Minister Stephen Harper last year to hold a First Minister's conference on aboriginal issues, Duguid said.

The five aboriginal groups attending are the Assembly of First Nations, the Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, the Metis National Council, the Native Women's Association of Canada and the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples.

President Chartrand Takes The Lead On H1N1

2009-10-27T00:23:00.003-05:00

I was a good leadership photo op today for the President of the Manitoba Metis Federation, David Chartrand ;
Sleeves rolled up for anti-H1N1 shots
I applaud the President for taking a stance in taking his whole family for a H1N1 flu shot. The media has reported that we Metis are a priority when it comes to getting the shot, so if you wish to, you better get it done. Many Metis and First nations people got very sick and a few even succumbed to the swine flu last year when it was in full swing. The second wave of the virus is here. I have been reading a lot, and watching many news reports in this new H11N1 vaccine. There does seem to be a growing concern that the vaccine hadn't undergone enough testing. Reports there hasn't been testing specific to pregnant women. There have been many people that I have spoken to recently, mostly from the Metis community, who are reluctant, even refusing to take the vaccine. With the rush to get the vaccine on the shelves, the possibility that something was overlooked during the manufacturing proccess cannot be underplayed. The 1976 swine flu outbreak in the U.S. helped produce a vaccine that killed more people than the flu itself that year. While I understand that medical advances have been made in the area of vaccine research, the test subjects were not varied enough. CTV Calgary has produced an excellent "whats' to know" video series on H1N1 ;

H1N1-The Facts part one
	H1N1-The Facts part two
	H1N1-The Facts part three
	H1N1-The Facts part four
	H1N1-The Facts Webcast part one
	H1N1-The Facts Webcast part two
	H1N1-The Facts Webcast part three

Metis News and Stuff has installed a poll on the sidebar. The question is a very serious one. With over 50 % of Canadians saying they will not take the vaccine, are they making the right choice ? Health care professionals are even skeptical. Some will not take the shot.
What are you going to do ?

Aboriginal People's Choice Music Awards

2009-10-24T12:50:00.005-05:00

Right around the corner..... NOVEMBER 7

Friday Fiddle

2009-10-23T18:00:00.002-05:00

Some Celtic fiddle and dance, and a selection from the pride of the Interlake, The Gaudry Boys

Tom Jackson Set To Build

2009-10-23T17:56:00.003-05:00

Entertainer Tom Jackson is proposing to build a 16-storey housing complex in Winnipeg.

His company, Dreamcatcher Housing, has applied for development approval with city officials.

The plan calls for 120 residential units on the upper floors and offices and retail spaces on the first few floors.

The complex would be at 221 Stradbrook Ave., near Fort Rouge Park. It would sit on land adjacent to the Winnipeg Winter Club on River Avenue.Jackson is a popular Canadian singer and actor who is also known for his philanthropy. He was born in Saskatchewan, on the One Arrow First Nation south of Prince Albert.

Jackson, who is Métis, also has deep connections to Winnipeg where he experienced street life and launched his music career.

He also starred in the CBC television drama North of 60.

The Winnipeg complex will require approval for rezoning the land, which could take several months.

The first public hearing on the proposal before a planning committee is set for Dec. 8.

What Is This Goverment Agency and Why Do They Visit So Often ?

2009-10-22T11:40:00.004-05:00

I've been getting this same visitor for approximately a year, maybe two now ;

metis news and stuff
By Details > Visit Detail
Visit 109,178

Domain Name

gov.mb.ca ^? (Canada)

IP Address

205.200.189.#
(Government of Manitoba Gold & Silver)

ISP

MTS Allstream

Location

Continent	:	North America
Country	:	Canada (Facts)
State/Region	:	Manitoba
City	:	Winnipeg
Lat/Long	:	49.8833, -97.1667 (Map)

Language

English (U.S.)
en-us

Operating System

Microsoft WinXP

Browser

Internet Explorer 6.0
Mozilla/4.0 (compatible; MSIE 6.0; Windows NT 5.1; SV1; .NET CLR 1.1.4322; InfoPath.1; .NET CLR 2.0.50727; .NET CLR 3.0.04506.30; .NET CLR 3.0.04506.648)

Javascript

version 1.3

Monitor

Resolution	:	800 x 600
Color Depth	:	32 bits

Time of Visit

Oct 22 2009 9:18:35 am

Last Page View

Oct 22 2009 9:38:28 am

Visit Length

19 minutes 53 seconds

Page Views

Referring URL

http://dustmybroom.com/

Visit Entry Page

http://derrylsanderson.blogspot.com/

Visit Exit Page

http://derrylsanderson.blogspot.com/

Out Click

2 Comments
https://www.blogger....=1262646974851209845

Time Zone

UTC-6:00

Visitor's Time

Oct 22 2009 9:18:35 am

Visit Number

109,178

I phoned a government rep who did a bit of research and came up with nada.
Anyone know who or what this department is ?
This particular visitor seems to jump between all of the Metis blogs, including Cybersmokeblog.

MMFs Trip To Juno Beach, Normandy.........My Perspective

2009-10-22T10:50:00.005-05:00

I received another e mail regarding the Manitoba Metis Federation's attendee selection for the upcoming trip to dedicate a memorial to Metis Veterans in France.
Firstly, here's a recap ;
A monument to Métis Nation Veterans who fought during the two World Wars will be erected at Canada’s Juno Beach Centre in Normandy, France. “Métis Nation citizens from all across the country bravely and selflessly answered the call to serve during the World Wars,” said Manitoba Metis Federation President David Chartrand. “This monument will stand in eternal remembrance to those Métis who fought, who were wounded, and who died defending their people, their country, and world freedom.” President Chartrand, who is also the Métis National Council’s Minister for Veterans Affairs, is in France to attend ceremonies marking the 65th anniversary of D-Day, the June 6, 1944 liberation of Europe by Allied Forces during World War II.
then we got this info from Frank Godon ;
Going back to France Part II
History
Written by Krazy
Tuesday, 06 October 2009 00:00
As mentioned in the previous story I have received some updates as to when we will be leaving and a list of those going with us. We will be departing Nov 8 in Winnipeg at 15:10 arriving in Toronto at 18:38 leaving Toronto 20:15 and arriving at Charles De Gaul Airport Paris at 09:40 on Nov 9 We will leave Paris Nov 14 at 11:30 and arrive in Toronto at 14:10 leaving Toronto at 15:40 and arriving in Winnipeg at 17:14. So goes the travel arrangements. Now for the list of those traveling to France
-David Chartrand - President MMF (and MNC Metis veterans minister) -Glorian Yakiwchuk (wife of President) -Carl Chartrand (Vice President Interlake Region and Board member) - John Park - John Parenteau -Ed Charrier (Board Member Thompson Region) - Muriel Parker (Metis Women's rep - I think) - Claire Riddle (Board Member Winnipeg Region) - Denise Thomas (Vice President and Board Member Southeast Region) - Joe Edwards - Jean Desrosiers (Board Member Southeast Region) - Edith Desrosiers (Wife of Board Member) - John Fleury (Board Member Southwest Region) - Barb Fleury (Wife of Board Member) - Judith Mayer (Vice President and Board Member The Pas Region) - Kim Stephen (Board Member The Pas Region) - Julyda Lagimodiere - Board member - James Fyke - Cindy Miller- special assistant to the President - Myrna Lavallee - Robert Bruce - Lorna Bruce (veteran and wife) - Francis Godon - Frank Godon (veteran and son) Chelsea Lavallee - Christie Lavallee - Paige Ricard - Katlyn Ducharme - Evan Ducharme - Justin Ducharme - Sheldon Ducharme - Brandon Lavallee (the previous eight names being the youth stompers) - Wilfred Lavallee - Jason Appleyard (Entertainer - Fiddler) - Eugene Desjarlais - Elbert Chartrand (Vice President and Board Member Northwest Region) - Hector Gaudry - Roland Gaudry - Oliver Boulette- MMF executive - Lora Sanderson - Robert Penwarden -Patricia Penwarden (possible veteran and wife - don't know) - Donald Roulette- MMF executive - Paul Desjarlais - and two people not yet confirmed - Dillion Gaudry and George Anderson
OK, so that's done.
The comments that both Dust My Broom and here received, were very critical in regards specifically, to the high number of MMF executives and board members including in some instances, spouses, who got the nod to go to France. One email we got here today was asking what connection do all of these board of directors have with this trip ? They're not Metis vets, was the gist of the comment. The President of the MMF stated during his weekly radio address that all of these people who were selected to go had a connection in some way or another to Juno beach vets. In one way or another, all Canadians have connections to the second world war........ or any subsequent wars for that matter.
The board of director numbers are unusually high I agree, and something should be done in the future to avoid such a discrepancy between the number of vets and corporate executives in attendance. Thats' a hell of a lot of money spent that could have aided Metis vets.....plain and simple, black and white.
In saying that, kudos have to given to the MMF for raising the lions share of the trip cost through fundraising. So, I am just saying, let them all go, have fun.
Its' too late now, so let us just celebrate the fact the Metis veterans are forever going to have a memorial in place to remember their courage and bravery. Its for the vets.....lets just celebrate.
If you want to change the way decisions are being made, the MMF elections are less than a year away. (any candidates want to declare ?)

Metis Market Open

2009-10-20T23:28:00.004-05:00

Hello Derryl

I enjoy your blog very much - keep up the good work.

I have an online shop called Metis Market where I put designs that my husband Lorin and I create for t-shirts and other items. Please check it out at: http://www.zazzle.ca /jojolevac*. If you like the site, please place the link on your site. Metis from as far away as California have been purchasing our items.

The Waceya Metis Society has placed their logo with us to setup a line of items they use for special events etc. It is convenient as they don't have to order large quantities of t-shirts etc as is usually the case. Zazzle, the host of our shop, produces quality items for many reputable organizations. The Vancouver Metis Cultural Society is considering placing their logo with us for custom items but we are first creating a new logo for them.

If you have ideas for designs that you would like to see in the Metis Market please email me. I will wave the $25 setup fee if you want items with your logo make available for printing on t-shirts and other items.

Have a great day

Jo-Jo

BTW - You may contact Sheree Lamirand, Secretary of Waceya Metis Society for a referral
smoliver@shaw.ca - www.waceyametis.org

Jo-Anne Levac Blog: www.pinantanlake.com/blog

Shop: www.zazzle .ca/jojolevac*

They have some excellent Metis-themed items.
Good luck in your new venture and please keep visiting and sharing articles with MN & S.
Hope the add on the sidebar will aid in your business.

First Nations, Métis and Inuit Staff With Revamped Program

2009-10-20T23:19:00.003-05:00

By revamping its First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) programming, the Grande Prairie Public School District is poised to become a frontrunner in providing services for FNMI students.Over the past three years, the district has looked at programming models in Alberta and in British Columbia to explore what is working in other school jurisdictions.“Last year was really the point where we went and took a look at those programs we had heard about,” said Chris Farquharson, assistant superintendent – student services for the district.“We pulled it all together and made a plan for Grande Prairie public.

”Within the plan is an FNMI co-ordinator, a district FNMI teacher and four student FNMI counsellors.Shannon Dunfield is the new co-ordinator. She will help shape the program for the district and supervise the FNMI student counsellors.

“The FNMI student population is growing within Alberta,” said Dunfield, who has a background in social work, has worked at the Grande Prairie Friendship Centre and is the board chairwoman for the HIV North Society.“So we are growing at a very fast rate, but our graduation rates are not on-par with the rest of the population.”

Dunfield said the FNMI student counsellors will support the social, emotional, physical, cultural well-being of the more than 800 FNMI students within the district. The counsellors will work in 12 of the 14 district schools, while Dunfield will oversee the remaining schools. By developing this program, Farquharson said, the district will help teachers understand the learning needs of the FNMI students.

Metis Vet To Dave Chartrand ; 3 years of nothing is too damn long!

2009-10-18T12:01:00.007-05:00

Frank Godon, Metis activist, blogger and veteran, has taken dead aim at the Manitoba Metis Federation's President and has pulled no punches in saying among other things that Chartrand has taken advantage of a vet to merely aid public relations and future vet funding negotiation.

From Frank Godon ;
David Chartrand - President Manitoba Metis Federation and Minister in charge of Veterans Affairs for the Metis National Council ; I'd like to introduce myself to you as it appears that you have forgotten who I am. I am a Metis Veteran, and son of a Metis Veteran. I did some work for the Metis National Council in 2006 researching Metis Veterans who served in World War II and Korea and who after returning home found that they were not allowed the same benefits as other Veterans and were classed in with First Nations.

I met with you, President Chartier, and Professor Scott Sheffield from University of British Columbia Frazer Valley. At this time along with the lawyer handling this case, Paul Edwards, we mentioned that the funding supplied would not be adequate, but we were told to carry on as you were all working on receiving more funding. I travelled western Canada and Ontario interviewing and speaking with Metis Veterans, I even attended the funeral of some Metis Veterans I had interviewed at the request of their families. I started this project because of my father, and the more I learned from these Veterans the more passionate I became about it.

In August 2006 Paul Edwards told me that there was no more funding and we had to stop, seal the information I had gathered and bring it to the law office and put it in storage. We never even got to the archives in PEI. In the 3 years that followed I have tried numerous times to make contact with you or President Chartier but have always been given some excuse as to why you couldn't meet me.

I become critical of how you are doing your job as our president, and you forget me ?
My father, Francis Godon - the Metis Veteran who you and Clem would parade around as your "poster veteran" so you could try to get money from the government - you would introduce him to people like PM Chrétien or PM Martin or who ever the Veterans affairs minister would be, and he would do it for you because he was told, "We're close, should have some compensation for the veterans in the next 6 to 9 months." - he has tried to see you, but you have even said no to him!

David, I am thankful that you have remembered him for this trip back to Juno, and I am grateful to be going with him. I see this as an opportunity for you and I to sit down and discuss what a cluster fuck your handling of the Metis Veterans compensation has been. President Chartier's and your excuse has always been that you have never received enough money from the government to continue. Well David, if what you are saying about this trip to Juno is true, and that the majority of the funding has come from fund-raising, then why haven't you done this type of fund-raising to continue with the research and get our Metis Veterans their compensation?

The MMF has managed to raise nearly $100,000 in just a little over 4 months, and that's so politicians can go with our Veterans back to Juno. That is quite an achievement, and maybe if the government seen you doing this for the research - maybe they would help - just maybe.
David, I know your people read the blogs, well at least I know of one person in your office that does, I am going to keep putting information on the blogs that will make your decisions questionable in the eyes of the Metis community. I mean you no disrespect, but unless you personally contact me via email agreeing to meet with me and seriously discuss what needs to be done for the remaining Metis Veterans and how we will achieve compensation for them while they are still alive, I am going to continue with the blogs.

I am speaking for the Metis Veterans who can't speak for themselves. We started something for them - now lets finish it.

3 years of nothing is too damn long!

Don't know how effective it has been, but the Metis Veterans do have a website.

The site appears to be administered by the Metis National Council ;

http://www.metisveterans.ca/?page_id=15&sourcePage=12

Theoren Fleury - One Resilient Metis

2009-10-17T01:52:00.006-05:00

I checked out the Fifth Estate last night and watched as future hockey hall of famer Theoren Fleury told a captive audience how among other things, he once spent $ 200,000 over a three week period partying. (he was among the league leaders in scoring at the time).
Fleury discussed with the interviewer how he fell into a destructive lifestyle of booze, sex and drugs in order to cope with what he didn't understand......the repeated molestation and sexual abuse at the hands of his junior hockey coach, Grahame James.
Diddler, Skinhound.
Those are some of prison slang terms for what that creep Grahame James is......a pedophile and rapist.
The sicko made the headlines in another sex case a few years ago. Fleury's former junior teammate Sheldon Kennedy also suffered at the hands of James. James got three years for the Kennedy abuse.
Seeing Fleury talk about the years, friends, relationships, career and finances he lost while trying to come to grips with the pain, made me seethe. We're talking about a young boy, out on his own in a new town, being manipulated by a man he not only trusted, but also was an authority figure in a position of trust.
Fleury talked at length on his addiction battles. How he once spent $ 36,000 in one night in a strip club, infidelity, how his challenges and addictions, ended his career too early. Theoren once held a loaded gun in his mouth.
He is now four years sober. With his going public, Fleury says by opening up and sharing his horrific stories of the abuse, he has now began to heal. The Former Stanley Cup and Olympic champion has got to be admired for his valiant efforts to help other victims dealing with similar horrors........and possibly come forward if they're being abused.
Fleury thinks there were probably other kids assaulted by James.
In one of the most inspirational stories in recent years, he attempted a comeback after being out of the game for six years, and suited in training camp up for his beloved Calgary Flames. The Saddledome was the scene for most of Fleury's hockey heroics. Even though he scored four points in four games including a game winner in overtime, the ex-Flame captain was cut. He has since retired.
As far as any police action that might arise as a result of Fleury's shocking revelations, the RCMP have announced that if Fleury was to come into their offices and file a complaint they would commence an investigation. In other words, James the pedophile could go back to jail. I think a dangerous offender application should be made by the crown if James is charged, and eventually convicted. Its' just a matter of time.
I couldn't help but feel for Fleury. Years gone of his life due to the actions of a person not fit to be in a civilized world. These pedophiles are animals....less than animals.
But I also felt another thing....Fleury might have just won the biggest game, or scored the biggest goal of his life.
By slaying his addiction demons, he is a champ in the game of life.
If you didn't watch the interview, please take time to view ;
http://www.cbc.ca/fifth/2009-2010/the_fall_and_rise_of_theo_fleury/

And if you want a Metis role model.....look no further than Theoren Fleury.

St Ambroise Youth Steppers Going To Juno

2009-10-17T01:45:00.002-05:00

Youth Steppers steppin' out
"The St. Ambroise Youth Steppers are going international.
The jigging and square dancing troupe will head to France to perform at a dedication ceremony at Juno Beach in Normandy on Nov. 11 for Métis soldiers killed during the Second World War.
While the dancers have been invited to various places before to perform, it hasn’t quite compared to this.
Lavallée, 18, said her mother and the team’s coach Myrna Lavallée invited all eight of the dancers to their home in St. Ambroise and told them they had been invited to perform somewhere. She then presented a piece of paper with the news that it was Normandy, France, where they were invited.
“It was really exciting,” Lavallée recalled.
Prior to this, Lavallée said, the farthest the dancers had travelled to perform was to Batoche, Sask., for Back to Batoche Days.
The youth steppers, along with their coach and co-ordinator Wilf Lavallée, Chelsea’s father, will leave Canada on Nov. 8 and return Nov. 14. During that time, they will not only perform at Juno Beach, but tour Paris and other cities in France.
I'm so happy for these youth.

NDP Leadership Convention

2009-10-17T01:05:00.004-05:00

Steve Ashton and Greg Selinger head into today's Manitoba New Democratic leadership vote both on needles and pins. Recent numbers indicate that Selinger has a mere 100plus delegate lead. Swing voters and some of former leadership candidate Andrew Swans former voters have not indicated their intention. There may be in excess of 200 delegate votes still up for grabs.
So that should leave us with an interesting scenario.

The final hours of campaigning are winding down for Manitoba NDP leadership candidates Steve Ashton and Greg Selinger.
Their names will be on the ballot Saturday when the party delegates choose a new leader, and by default a new premier, to replace Gary Doer.

The provincial NDP leader since 1988 and premier since 1999, Doer surprised many political observers by announcing Aug. 27 that he would be stepping down.
Selinger, the former finance minister, and Ashton, the former minister in charge of intergovernmental affairs and emergency measures, entered the leadership race shortly after Doer announced his resignation.
The first person to step forward as a candidate was Andrew Swan, the competitiveness, training and trade minister.
All three resigned from their cabinet positions to seek the leadership.
At last count, Selinger led the delegate count by 117.
The total number of delegates is just shy of 1,500. Delegates will head into the Winnipeg Convention Centre on Saturday. Speeches from the candidates are set to begin just after noon, with voting to follow at 2 p.m. CT.
The result could be known by 4 p.m. CT, said Lorraine Sigurdson, president of the Manitoba NDP.
Follow the events of the convention by tuning in to CBC Radio One 89.3, CBC TV, or online at www.CBC.ca/Manitoba .

Regardless of who wins, lets' hope the party stays unified.

The NDP has accomplished much during Gary Doers rein, still holds the polls, so to the future leader and Premier ; party unity is a must going forward.

Selinger nor Ashton posses the charisma and likeability factor that made Doer one of the most popular premiers in Manitoba history, so a complete team effort will be required until such time as the public buys into the new guy.

Painted Hand Promo

2009-10-13T22:46:00.003-05:00

A little over two weeks away from the Halloween Spooktacular show at the Painted Hand Casino in Yorkton, Saskatchewan.
Here's a bit of promo for the event.
One Woman Man a George Jones classic, and Wrapped Around, a newer Brad Paisley number.
Chances R band members for that particular weekend were Shaun Parenteau, Clint and Tom Dutiaume.

Habitat For Humanity And Winnipeg Metis Association

2009-10-13T20:02:00.006-05:00

MN & S has commented frequently on the lack of affordable housing opportunities for Metis in Winnipeg.
Over the years, David Chartrand and the Manitoba Metis Federation's focus has always seemed geared to towards developing housing in the north.
Winnipeg region vice president Ron Chartrand created a unique partnership with the Winnipeg Metis Association and Habitat for Humanity a few months ago, and are currently building 10 houses for qualifying Metis. Here's some background ;

Habitat for Humanity Winnipeg and the Manitoba Metis Federation Inc., Winnipeg Region (WMA) developed a partnership agreement in the spring of 2008 to help address the need for more affordable housing for Metis people living in Winnipeg, specifically low-income working Metis families.
By using the strengths of both partners which include- the WMA's solid track record in communicating and serving the Metis population and Habitat for Humanity Winnipeg's expertise in building homes, now at 160 to date in Winnipeg, and the Habitat home ownership model along with-a goal of five new homes in 2009 and an additional five homes in 2010 has been set.
The cost to build these 10 homes will be $1,500,000 and the Province of Manitoba has committed to $1,000,000 in funding. The remaining $500,000 will be raised through a variety of fundraising initiatives through HFHW and the Winnipeg Metis Association Inc. The mortgage payments from these 10 homes will be collected in a special fund administered by Habitat and used to build future Metis Habitat homes.
If you wish to donate to this worthy cause, phone 204 589 4357 and ask where you can help out.
Kudos to Ron Chartrand for having a vision and following through on this positive partnership.
* I took these housing pics today. This is the build going on, just off Nairn