June - Siksika Nation

FREE
June 2012
VOLUME 19 ISSUE 7
RIIVER BANKS ERODE IN
LIITTLE WASHIINGTON
SIKSIKA OPEN BAND
MEETINGS REPORT
PAGES 2 & 4
FALLEN WARRIOR
LAID TO REST
PAGE 2
INDIGENOUS
GATHERING
INDIAN ACT 101
PAGE 3
An access road in Little Washington is quickly being eroded by the Bow River to
the extent that barriers have been set up to prevent accidents. Siksika Public
Works is monitoring the situation and residents still have access to their homes
SIKSIKA RADIO
Tune your radio to
IS
ALIVE !
104.7 FM
New D J’s & Interviews w ith
Speciaa l G uests
Natoka (2)
AITSINIKI - SIKSIKA NATION’S NEWSPAPER
June 2012
SIKSIKA OPEN BAND MEETINGS
by Wesley Water Chief
Chief and Council held Open
Band Meetings to update Siksika
citizens of Council initiatives but
more to listen to the people's
concerns,
issues
and
recommendations.
The meetings were held at
the Siksika Community Center
and the Alberta Park Community
Center in Calgary on June 6-7.
On hand to answer questions was
Chief Fred Rabbit Carrier and
members of Council; Tribal
Manager, Roy Bear Chief, along
with senior area managers who
had set up information booths.
During the meeting Councilor
Carlon Big Snake gave a break
down of Siksika Nation finances,
Councilor Reynold Medicine
Traveller presented on the
Siksika Off-Reserve Affordable
(SORAH) Housing Project and
then the floor was open to Siksika
citizens to ask questions, air
concerns
or
provide
recommendations.
Big Snake said the financial
presentation was asked for by the
people to prove what financial
situation Siksika Nation now finds
itself in. He presented a 10 year
financial breakdown and said of
the two main accounts in Ottawa,
Band Capital Account and Band
Revenue Account, after budgets
have been met for this fiscal year,
as of March 31, 2013 there will be
an approximate balance of $1.2
million in the capital account and
$1.6 million in the revenue
account.
Oil and gas royalties Siksika
receives goes into the Band
Capital Account in Ottawa. The
interest gained from the royalties
as well as other money making
ventures including agricultural
leases, grazing or cultivating
lands, goes in to a Band Revenue
Account.
"In the capital account in
Ottawa as of March 31, 2011
there was a balance of close to
$11 million in that account.
Through the budget process what
has come out of there for
operations, whether it be salaries
or housing or any other program
and services $7 million had to be
taken out of the $11 million. The
balance of that including the
royalties that were coming in was
$4.2 million in royalties," Big
Snake said.
"As of March 31, 2012 there
was approximately $8.1 million
and that was just a couple of
months ago. Again, through the
budget process what was needed
in each of the areas to operate
the Nation, what was asked for
we had to subtract over $7
million. So as of March 31, 2013
we will have approximately $1.2
million remaining in our capital
account.
"In the Band Revenue
Account, this is the interest that is
coming from the capital account,
as of March 31, 2011 there will be
close to $1 million. Last year
nothing was taken out of that for
operations; however, interest that
came in amounted to $2.6 million
and was added to that. So as of
this past March, 2012 there was
approximately $3.5 million that
was in the revenue account.
"This year there was a lot of
short falls in the programs and
with that the Treasury Board had
a long process and we had to cut
a lot of programs. After that there
was $1.9 million that was
allocated into the budget for this
year. The remaining balance for
2013 is $1.6 million left in that
account. Again, keep in mind
there will be other potential
interest coming in from minor
leases so that amount will go up,
but we are still trying to define
those projections, what are the
forecasts for that."
Councilor Reynold Medicine
Traveller made a presentation on
the
Siksika
Off-Reserve
Affordable (SORAH) Housing
program, one of two programs
being implemented by Chief and
Council to address housing
needs. Under this program
Siksika Nation has purchased
four housing complexes in the city
of Calgary with 41 separate living
accommodations. These units,
some with handicap accessibility,
will be made available to Siksika
Nation members at affordable
rental rates.
The remainder of the Open
Band Meeting was open to the
general public to ask questions,
make
inquiries,
or
recommendations to Chief and
LAND CLAIM NEGOTIATORS GET TOUR
Federal
government
representatives were given a
tour of Siksika Nation before
sitting down with Chief and
Council and its legal team to
discuss the 1910 Surrender
claim.
Litigation
Project
Manager, Elizabeth Bicknell;
Legal Counsel for the
Department
of
Justice
Canada, David Venour; and
the Minister of Aboriginal
Affairs’
Special
Representative,
Frank
Osendarp met with Chief and
Council and it legal team on
May 16 to discuss aspects of
the 1910 Surrender claim.
The 1910 Surrender is the
largest surrender of reserve
land ever to occur in Canada
involving
approximately
115,000 acres of the Siksika
Nation’s reserve lands. The
lack of sufficient notice of the
SIKSIKA
vote is one of the reasons why
Siksika Nation is arguing that
the 1910 Surrender was
invalid.
Back in 1910, the
Surrender vote was held on
June 15, 1910. This took
place after the sundance,
which was held on June 1-12,
1910.
Inspector
Markle
dispatched an agent to serve
written notice on only seven
chiefs on June 13, 1910,
which was less then two days
notice to when the 1910
Surrender meeting was to be
held.
During the tour, Guy
Medicine Shield and Clarence
Wolf Leg showed the federal
government representatives
that the sheer size of the
reserve would have made it
impossible for all eligible
voters to attend the 1910
Surrender meeting on such
short notice.
AITSINIKI
ATSIMOIHKAN A PRAYER
Ayo Apistotoki
Creator
Ispomokinnaan
Help us
Nahkayistsiyisinnaan
To listen
Nahkaikimotsiyisinnaan To be kind to one another
Nahkayikakimahsinnaan
To try hard
Nahkokamotohisnnaan
To be honest
Nahkawatoyiitaksinnaan
To be spiritual
Ohtokinnaan, Apistotoki
Hear us, Creator
Kimmis kokosiks
Have pity on your children
Iksikimmatapsiya
They are in need
Kaamotaani
Grant us safety
Niistawatsimaani
Help us to raise our families
Naapiio’sini
So that they may live long
lives
(continued on page 4)
OF
By Wesley Waterchief
Federal government representatives stand with Siksika Councilors Clarence Wolfleg
and Guy Medicine Shield at the Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park during their tour
Council, the tribal manager as
well as senior manages who were
on hand to answer questions.
The leadership tried to
answer the questions as best
they could and the questions they
did not have answers for, Council
told the people these were being
noted and would be discussed
during
upcoming
Council
meetings.
For the most part Siksika
citizens just wanted to be heard
by the leadership and were told
by Chief Fred Rabbit Carrier they
could dictate how the next Open
Band Meeting will be formatted.
The response he received is the
people did not want reports on
Council initiatives, which they say
SIKSIKA NATION'S NEWSPAPER
SIKSIKA
WADE HEALY - MEDIA COORDINATOR
CRYSTAL RUNNING RABBIT - OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR
LETTY RED CROW - COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
VACANT - COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
MEDIA PUBLISHES THE SIKSIKA NATION AITSINIKI AND DISTRIBUTES TO THE SIKSIKA NATION,
THE BLACKFOOT CONFEDERACY, AND TREATY 7 FIRST NATIONS.
CONTACT US: MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. BOX 1490, SIKSIKA, ALBERTA T0J 3W0
PH: (403) 734-5339
FAX: (403) 734-5497
EMAIL: mediaoa@siksikanation.com
SUBSCRIBE TODAY:
PLEASE
SEND US YOUR NAME AND CONTACT INFORMATION INCLUDING A VALID MAILING ADDRESS
PLEASE
MAKE CHEQUE OR MONEY ORDER PAYABLE TO:
SIKSIKA MEDIA
$14.00 OR 1 YEAR: $28.00
SIKSIKA MEDIA DISTRIBUTES THE SIKSIKA NATION AITSINIKI FREE OF CHARGE
SUBSCRIPTION FEES ARE FOR HANDLING AND POSTAGE COSTS.
THE SIKSIKA NATION AITSINIKI IS PROTECTED BY COPYRIGHT AND NO PART MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT
WRITTEN CONSENT. LETTERS AND ARTICLES SUBMITTED FOR PUBLICATION ARE SUBJECT TO EDITING FOR
CLARITY, BREVITY, AND ACCURACY. NAMES, ADDRESSES, AND TELEPHONE NUMBERS ARE REQUIRED FOR
RATES: 6
MONTHS:
SUBMISSIONS BUT TELEPHONE NUMBERS AND ADDRESSES WILL NOT BE PUBLISHED UNLESS AUTHORIZED BY
THE SUBMITTER.
ANONYMOUS
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR WILL NOT BE PUBLISHED.
June 2012
AITSINIKI - SIKSIKA NATION’S NEWSPAPER
Niokska (3)
Indigenous Gatherings Presents: Indian Act 101
by Trevor Solway
Indigenous Gatherings
hosted the Indian Act 101
conference May 22 at the
Calgary Coast Plaza Hotel.
The one-day conference
created awareness of what
the Indian Act really means to
First
Nations
people.
Featured speakers included;
Dr. Leroy Littlebear, Michael
Frank and Thomas Flanagan.
All three speakers provided
their
expertise
and
observance of the only racebased legislation in the
country.
Presentations
included everything from
Elections,
Membership,
Lands, and Indian Monies.
The
conference
was
moderated by former Siksika
Chief; Leroy Wolf Collar.
The first speaker was Dr.
Leroy
Littlebear,
former
Director of the Native
American Program at Harvard
University and a National
Aboriginal
Achievement
Award Recipient.
Dr. Littlebear focused on
the dissection of the Indian
Act.
He
began
his
presentation with the precolonization of North America,
right through to the arrival of
Europeans,
while
also
explaining
the
impact
colonizers had on First
Nations and the effects they
continue to impose via the
Indian Act.
The former University of
Lethbridge professor also
touched on the government’s
true intentions of developing
the Indian Act and the logistics
of Native rights. He spoke of
how the Indian Act creates
hurdles and barriers for First
Nations to thrive on our lands
through
government
legislation.
Michael
Frank,
a campaign in 2005-06.
and First Nations Children and
Lethbridge College instructor
Flanagan discussed the Youth. Many Guns started
also spoke to the attentive difficulties
of
economic Indigenous
Gatherings
audience. His presentation development on reserve land. because she felt there was a
was on the First Nations He described the government need for specific knowledge to
election systems and the ownership of lands as flawed, be shared and discussed
effects the Indian Act has on stating that the current among our leaders and our
that process. He covered property rights regime creates people.
sections 74 to 79 of the Act, major obstacles. Flanagan
"I wanted to contribute to
called the 'Indian Band suggests that the dual First Nations by providing our
Election Regulations'. Frank approval of band and minister people
with
the
best
said not all bands are required is slow, complex and costly. information possible. There
to adhere to these
are a lot of issues
guidelines, as the
that aren't shared,
options
of
selfsuch
as
data,
governing
and
provincial
community or custom
legislation
and
election codes are
overall
changes
also options.
that are coming
Out of the 617
and affect each
First
Nations
in
and every one of
Canada, 240 hold
us."
elections under the
Living
in
Indian Act, 341 hold
Siksika all her life,
their elections under
Many Guns always
custom or community
knew she wanted
election codes, while
to contribute to her
photo: Trevor Solway
36 First Nations are
community and to
self-governing. Frank
First
Nations
Professor Leroy Little Bear enlightens the
pointed out that many
people. When she
attendees of Indian Act 101
First Nations are
was just a child she
critical
of
the
witnessed an Elder
He also noted the limitations
guidelines and regulations set by the Indian Act and give her mother, Delphine
under the Act. He presented suggested ways in which Doore, an eagle feather as a
proposed solutions to the so- Native people can grow token of his gratitude for her
called flawed system. These economically without giving hard work and services in the
solutions included; longer up their treaty rights, if they so health field.
terms of office, a more robust choose to opt into these
"It was a humbling
process for the nomination of programs.
experience to see an elder
candidates and penalties for
Indigenous Gatherings is express his gratitude nonoffenses.
an up and coming business ceremoniously towards my
The last speaker was from venture first established in mother. It was, in Blackfoot
the perspective of the federal June 2011 by Alayna Many tradition, to accept this token
government.
Thomas Guns. The business is in a dignified manner."
Flanagan was the political centered on consulting and
From
the
profound
advisor to Preston Manning of event management. In the respect felt in that experience,
the reform party ('91-'95.) and past
Many
Guns
has Alayna was inspired to serve
political advisor to Stephen organized events such as; and help her community. To
Harper through 2002 to 2007, First Nations Governance, fill this need of helping her
as well as the Senior Best Practices in First Nations people she entered the health
Communications Adviser in Board of Governance, Ethics field and in 1998 she
the Conservative 'war room' in First Nations Healthcare graduated with her Bachelors
through the party's election
degree
in
Health
Administration. Since then
she has held titles such as
Regional
Tele-health
Manager at Alberta First
Nations, Special Projects
Lead at Siksika Health and
Co-Management Liaison at
Treaty
7
Management
Corporation.
Indigenous
Gatherings next conference is
Workplace Wellness in a First
Nation Organization which will
be held during the Calgary
Stampede's
Centennial
Celebration at Sheraton
Cavalier on July 11-12th. One
free adult admission to the
Calgary Stampede will be
given to each participant
registered. The event will be
centered on both corporate
and
personal/individual
changes that so many of us
need to make. Speakers and
presenters will be focusing on
topics such as nutrition,
mental
health,
physical
activity and all other healthy
lifestyle modifications needed
to improve the overall wellbeing of our people.
Due to the over
whelming demand of Indian
Act
101,
Indigenous
Gatherings will be hosting the
event a second time at the
Fantasyland
Hotel
in
Edmonton, AB, on July 25th.
For more information on any
events you can reach
Indigenous Gatherings at 403734-5441. You can also reach
us via social media; Facebook
(Indigenous
Gatherings),
Twitter
(@igatherings),
Linked-in
(Indigenous
Gatherings) or you can e-mail
Alayna for the detailed poster
of
the
events
at
igatherings@gmail.com
BLACKFEET NATION LAY TO REST WARRIOR
KILLED ON ACTIVE DUTY IN AFGHANISTAN
By Tom Russell (Kainai reporter)
The Blackfeet Nation,
a proud member of the
Blackfoot Confederacy, lay to
rest one of its fallen warriors.
Cpl. Antonio “Tony” Burnside,
a member of the United
States Army, was killed while
on duty performing
operations in Afghanistan.
Cpl. Burnside
enlisted at the age of 26 and
began basic training in Fort
Leonard Wood, MO. After
graduating from basic
training, Burnside then went
to airborne school in Fort
Benning, GA. He was then
assigned to Fort Richardson,
Alaska, and then was
deployed for a tour of duty to
Afghanistan.
After completing his
tour of duty in 2010, Burnside
made the decision to re-enlist.
He was assigned to the 1st
Brigade
Special
Troops
Battalion, 1st Brigade Combat
Team,
82nd
Airborne
Division, Fort Bragg, N.C.
On April 6, 2012, Burnside’s
mother, Annie Many Hides,
answered a knock on her
door. It was two military men,
in formal dress uniforms,
informing Annie that her son
died in action.
The Blackfeet Nation,
with
tribal
leaders,
servicemen and many elders
in full regalia, honored the
fallen warrior with words of
encouragement and praise for
the Burnside family. Cpl.
Burnside leaves to mourn his
mother Annie, three children,
numerous relatives, family,
friends and an entire nation.
Chief Weasel Head
and representatives from
Siksika, Peigan and Kainai
attended the funeral in
support of Burnside and his
family. “The Blood Tribe is a
member of the Blackfoot
Confederacy and we wish to
express
our
sincere
condolences to the family of
the late Cpl. Antonio Burnside
Many Hides,” he said. “On
family well in their healing. I
thank the people of Browning
and the Blackfeet Nation for
honoring one of their fallen
help serve and protect our
homeland, our people and our
Blackfoot Confederacy tribes.”
Photo courtesy Blackfeet Nation
Chief of
Charles
Clarence
Wolf Leg,
John
Ground,man
Herman Yellow Old Woman, Montana
behalf
the Weasel
people Head,
of the
warriors.
This
young
Governor
Brian Schweitzer,
Person and Peter
“Rusty”
Tatsey,
Blood
Tribe,
we wish Earl
the Oldcourageously
gave
his life
to Blackfeet Tribal Business Council
Vice-Chair, stand with Annie Many Hides, mother of Cpl. Burnside.
Nisowo (4)
AITSINIKI - SIKSIKA NATION’S NEWSPAPER
June 2012
SIKSIKA OPEN BAND MEETINGS (CON’T)
(continued
from
page
2)
takes up too much time instead
wanted the next meeting to be
exclusively a question and
answer period or meeting.
The question was then
asked why housing was being
made available in Calgary
instead of building more houses
on the Nation. Chief Rabbit
Carrier responded by saying
Calgary is where the jobs are and
where half of the Siksika Nation
population lives and they need
living accommodations as well.
A Siksika member asked for
an update on the Acreage
Discrepancy Trust Fund and how
they could access funding. Chief
Rabbit Carrier said an application
process was approved six
months ago that would allow
Siksika citizens to apply for a loan
in order to start a business. The
loan application is available at
Siksika Treasury and would have
to be completed and submitted
for consideration.
A concerned Siksika
member asked if Chief and
Council had a plan to get out of
the current financial situation and
if there was a plan for renewable
resources. Chief Rabbit Carrier
said part of the problem is the
changing of leadership over the
years. The constant change of
leadership affects the Nation's
stability. He said the plan is to
move forward and get Siksika
citizens into the workforce by
investing in the workforce and by
working
with
the
Alberta
Government
with
income
support.
"There is an employment
strategy which includes working
with SRDL (Siksika Resources
Developments Ltd.)
consultation
and
looking at MOU
(Memorandum of
Understanding) to
work with industry.
The short term goal
will be drilling again
potential
sites.
Siksika Nation has
$150 million in
assets, and we are
also looking to use
resources from the
1910
Surrender
claim,"
Rabbit
Carrier said.
Some of the
highlighted subjects discussed at
the Open Band Meeting in
Calgary were housing needs,
homeless
youth,
poverty,
unemployment and general
election voting and what was
Chief and Council doing to
address these issues.
A number of urban residents
said they wanted to move back to
Siksika Nation but because of the
lack of housing they are forced to
live in the city. One person said
this housing shortage, along with
financial assistance eligibility
rules for employable youth, has
caused some Siksika youth to
take up residence on the streets
of Calgary.
Councilor Laverna McMaster
responded to those inquiries but
stating she has lived in Calgary
for over 30 years and can identify
with those people's struggles.
She said Council is working on a
couple of programs to address
the housing shortage.
The First Nations Market
Housing program is a program
being implemented on the Nation
to assist those with jobs to get a
loan so they may purchase their
own home. This would free up the
houses they are currently renting
allowing more individuals to
move back to Siksika. The
second is the SORAH Housing
Project.
Councilor Guy Medicine
Shield said adding
to the housing
shortage
is
vandalism
to
houses on the
Nation. He said
Chief and Council,
Siksika
citizens
and the Housing
Department have
to work together to
address
these
issues.
Medicine
Shield added due
to
high
unemployment on
the Nation, Council
is researching how to get jobs for
Siksika citizens in Fort McMurray.
There is a shortage of manpower
up north and Siksika has a
shortage of jobs. A meeting is
being set up for members of
Council to meet with industry
representatives in Fort McMurray
so they can discuss putting
members to work in the industry.
An urban member said that
Council has an obligation to
assist Siksika Nation members
wherever they may live, including
Calgary. The question was then
asked when will a general
election polling station be set up
in Calgary so Siksika urban
residents can vote in the general
election?
Chief Rabbit Carrier said it is
hoped that this issue will be
"ironed out soon" but most likely
won't happen in the next election.
At the present time there are not
enough ballot counting machines
to work both locations at the
same
time.
Also
voting
regulations require two election
officials be present at a polling
station and there are financial
considerations to be made due to
limited finances.
Siksika Nation citizens were
encouraged to voice their issues
and
questions
because
McMaster said the Open Band
Meetings brings to light the
people's concerns. She said
Chief and Council hears their
concerns and these issues will be
part of their discussions.
However, she added Chief and
Council don't have all of the
answers.
Canada’s Future Tied to Ability of Indigenous Young People
to Play a Part in Economy
TORONTO, ONTARIO—
(Marketwire - June 1, 2012) Canada’s rapidly growing
Aboriginal population has the
potential to fill the country’s
looming skill and labour
shortage but only if a widening
post-secondary education gap
between Aboriginal and nonAboriginal people can be
stemmed, according to BMO
Financial Group.
“With an aging workforce,
and looming skill and labour
shortages, Canada needs
these future employees. We
need their capacity, creativity
and skills,” said Stephen Fay,
National Director, Aboriginal
Banking Unit, BMO Financial
Group.
As the youngest and
fastest growing segment of
Canada’s
population,
Aboriginal youth represent a
large pool of talent for
Canada’s workforce. The
Aboriginal
population
is
growing at a rate of 1.8 per
cent — almost twice the
growth rate of the general
population at 1 per cent.
By the end of 2017,
Aboriginal people of will
comprise 3.4 per cent of the
working age population in
Canada. Yet Indigenous
people continue to be overrepresented
amongst
Canada’s unemployed.
A key contributing factor is
the gap in their level of postsecondary education.
Twenty-three per cent of
the non-Aboriginal population
has a university degree. In
stark contrast, only 8 per cent
of the Indigenous population
(First Nations, Inuit and Métis
peoples) and only 4 per cent
of First Nations peoples have
a university degree.
“Raising the bar on
Aboriginal education is the
right thing to do; it helps our
students, it helps our country
and
frankly,
it
helps
corporations like BMO,” said
Mr. Fay. “Higher levels of
education lead to better
prospects, opportunities and
jobs for these young people,
and as a result to healthier
communities right across
Canada.”
“There is no question in
my mind that the future of this
country has everything to do
with the degree to which
Indigenous young people
have the opportunity to play a
part in the economy,” said
Roberta
L.
Jamieson,
President and CEO of
Indspire. Indspire, formerly the
National
Aboriginal
Achievement Foundation, is
an organization dedicated to
transforming
Aboriginal
education in Canada.
“I know BMO gets this
message,”
added
Ms.
Jamieson.
“The
bank’s
support
has
helped
Indigenous students from
across the country and across
academic disciplines ready
themselves to make their
contributions to their people,
their communities, and to the
country.”
Earlier this week Mr. Fay
and Ms. Jamieson were
featured speakers at an event
to mark National Aboriginal
Day and the 20th Anniversary
of BMO’s Aboriginal Banking
Unit.
Ms.
Jamieson
commended the bank for its
leadership and vision in
helping Aboriginal youth
pursue
post-secondary
education
when
BMO
presented gifts of $112,500 to
both
Indspire
and
the
Foundation
for
the
Advancement of Aboriginal
Youth (FAAY).
The
donations
were
funded by the BMO Capital
Markets Equity Through
Education program, which is
aimed at creating a more
diverse workplace by helping
people
realize
their
educational ambitions by
providing opportunities they
might not otherwise have.
Since
Equity
Through
Education began in 2005,
BMO has donated a total of
$1.6 million to fund 386
Indspire and FAAY student
scholarships.
A Year of Success for Royal Military College of Canada Aboriginal Cadets
KINGSTON, ONT
MARKETWIRE
With
proud
families
looking on, 17 cadets who
completed the Aboriginal
Leadership Opportunity Year
(ALOY) program celebrated a
successful year of training at
the Royal Military College of
Canada (RMCC) June 17.
ALOY is a one year
program at RMCC for
Aboriginal youth that focuses
on academics, military skills,
leadership skills, athletics and
cultural awareness. The aim
of the program is to help the
youth cadets develop their
leadership potential to better
serve their communities and
their country. The training
year culminates in a final
exercise - a 102 kilometre trek men and women, and their to grow as leaders.
down the Rideau Canal to test families, should be proud of
“You have shown through
the cadets’ leadership skills.
your
commitment
and
their accomplishments.”
“These
perseverance over
outstanding
this past year that
young men and
you have what it
women in the
takes to be true
Aboriginal
leaders for your
Leadership
communities
and
Opportunity
Canada as a whole,”
Year
have
said
Brig.-Gen
worked
Tremblay.
“No
tremendously
matter which path
hard over the
you choose, I know
A Graduation Parade for 16 Cadets from the Aboriginal
past year and
you will take the
Leadership Opportunity Year (ALOY) program took place at leadership skills you
have
the Royal Military College (RMC) of Canada
successfully
have learned here
Brigadier-General Eric and apply them in your lives
shown their abilities as
leaders,” said the Honourable Tremblay, Commandant of every day.”
Peter MacKay, Minister of RMCC, commended the
In addition to the standard
National
Defence
and cadets for their hard work and program, this year’s cadets
Chancellor of RMCC. “These encouraged them to continue participated in a training
exercise
in
Yellowknife,
Northwest Territories, with the
Canadian Rangers, attended
two cultural events-Toronto’s
Canadian National Pow-Wow
and Georgian College’s PowWow in Barrie, Ontario-and,
participated
in
RMCC’s
athletic
and
intramurals
program, with several ALOY
cadets making the men’s
varsity basketball, hockey and
taekwondo teams.
Of the class of 17, three
have applied to the Regular
Officer Training Program
(ROTP); three will join the
Canadian Forces as noncommissioned members; and
a number have also applied to
pursue their studies with
civilian universities.
June 2012
AITSINIKI - SIKSIKA NATION’S NEWSPAPER
Nisito (5)
Siksika Youth Try Out for Provincial Football Team
by Stephen Yellow Old Woman
On the weekend of June 2 and 3
2012, three Siksika Nation youth
(Ethan Yellow Old Woman, Hayden
Yellow Old Woman and Jaedis
Smith) were invited to try out for the
Alberta Summer Games Team in
Okotoks Alberta.
The Alberta
Summer Games is for elite athletes to
compete in their respective sports
with other top athletes. There were
approximately 60 football hopefuls on
the weekend trying out for only 30
positions on the gridiron, and this was
the first time that Siksika was heavily
represented.
These aspiring
hopefuls will know by June 5 who has
made the cut.
Ethan Yellow Old Woman
participated and competed for
starting position as Defensive End
muscling his way through the best
offensive linemen in zone 2. Hayden
Yellow Old Woman tried out as wide
receiver, and Jaedis Smith as a
Defensive Line crushing Running
Back. It was commented by a
coaching staff that Hayden had the
best hands at the try outs.
These three Siksika athletes
have been playing for the Strathmore
Spartans Football club for the past 2
seasons; both Jaedis and Ethan have
received awards in 2011 for
outstanding play. All three of these
youth have contributed to the
success of the team both on-field and
off,
as
they
have
become
ambassadors to the bridging of our
communities as they are being
embraced by both.
Any additional interested youth
can sign up to join Strathmore
Spartans Football as the season
begins gearing up at the end of
August.
The 2012 Alberta Summer
Games is scheduled for July 26-29 in
Lethbridge Alberta. Come out display
our Nation Pride and support our
youth as they play with the best
athletes from across Alberta.
Phoenix Running Rabbit & Grant Black Horse Jr. play for the
Strathmore Reds Bantam Competitive Team this year, they won
the Dave "Doc" Plotsky Memorial Tournament in Fort
Saskatchewan, Alberta just outside of Edmonton on June 13,2012. Both boys hit home runs in the tournament. The
grandparents, parents and families are very proud of these boys!
photo: Stephen Yellow Old Woman
After tryouts in Okotoks
(L-R) Hayden Yellow Old Woman, Jaedis Smith, and Ethan Yellow Old Woman
Noi (6)
AITSINIKI - SIKSIKA NATION’S NEWSPAPER
June 2012
photo by Letty Red Crow
Siksika High School students including Shelby Running Rabbit, Rulon Sleigh and Thomas Many Guns participate in the Annual Siksika Health
& Wellness Diabetes Walk on June 13
photo by Letty Red Crow
Trisha Stimson, Karyia Ayoungman, Arthur Little Light, Deanna Many Shots, Dale Tallman, Leanna Three Suns, Pricilla Three Suns, Chief
Rabbit Carrier Emily Three Suns stand outside the new Henry Three Suns Recieving Home in West-G
photo by Letty Red Crow
Jason Fong of the Siksika EMS team
practices on a life-like simulator
photo by Wade Healy
Aboriginal provincial judge, the honorable Eugene Creighton gives opening remarks to the
audience at the Siksika Law Day June 15 at the Siksika Protective Services Building
June 2012
AITSINIKI - SIKSIKA NATION’S NEWSPAPER
Ihkitsika (7)
photo: Letty Red Crow
photo: Letty Red Crow
Siksika High School Staff enjoy a prepared meal as a final exam for the
Food Prep 30 Class in the Pit on June 13
Siksika Head Start progarm wrapped up their year with a barbque
enjoyed by the parents and staff
photo by Wesley Water Chief
L-R Youth Chief Doug Many Heads, Fire Chief Tom Little Chief, RCMP Staff Sgt.
James McLaren, Siksika Nation Chief Fred Rabbit Carrier
photo: Letty Red Crow
Siksika’s newest pupils gather at the Chief Old Sun School Kindergarten
graduation to recieve their diplomas and get ready for summer
"Mr. & Mrs. Jason & Louise Doore" Married: June 16, 2012
We would like to thank everyone who shared our very special
day however, we would like to give special thanks to Marie
Bearchief and Deanna Starlight. Also to those who put extra
hours of help toward making this day perfect for us. The food was
great and the music was wonderful
photo by Letty Red Crow
The 2012 Siksika Diabetes Awareness Walk, which took place at the Health
Centre on June 13, attracted a lot of participants including Chief Fred Rabbit
Carrier and Councilors Hector Winnipeg, Clarence Wolf Leg and Janice Doore.
photo by Letty Red Crow
(L-R) Amelia Crowfoot-Clark, Fritzie Woods and Angela
Bear Chief at OSCC year-end Bar-B-Que
Nanisowo (8) AITSINIKI - SIKSIKA NATION’S NEWSPAPER
NOTICES
First Nation Cuisine & Catering
Breakfast Sandwich
Full Breakfast
Breakfast Burrito
$4.00
$6.00
$6.00
Homemade Soups
$3.00
(Beef Barley, Cream of Mushroom, Potato
Bacon,Cream of Broccoli,Chicken Noodle)
Homemade Sandwiches
$4.00
(Egg Salad, Roast Beef, Ham & Cheese, BLT,
Clubhouse, Denver)
Chicken Wrap
Chicken Caesar Salad
Indian Taco
Taco in-a-Bag
Bannock Burgers
Fries & Gravy
Poutine
Homemade Desserts prices may
FOR PREORDERS
CALL
(403)734-3
3862
$6.00
$4.50
$6.00
$5.00
$5.00
$3.75
$4.75
vary
EXT
234
LOCATION: OLD SUN COMMUNITY COLLEGE
LEASING OPERATOR: ALREY BRASS
HOURS OF OPERATION: 8 AM - 2 PM
MONDAY - FRIDAY
SPECIAL EVENT CATERING AVAILABLE
OPEN ALL SUMMER 2012
June 2012
UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE,
AITSINIKI IS MOVING TO A
MONTHYLY PUBLICATION
SUBMISSIONS MAY BE
INCLUDED IF RECIEVED NO
LATER THAN THE 2ND
WEDNESDAY OF EACH
MONTH
Siksika Media would like to hear
from YOU.
If YOU have any questions,
pictures, letters-to-the-editor, stories
ideas, contructive suggestions or
anything that YOU think should be
in AITSINIKI.
Please contact Siksika Media:
Mailing Address
P.O. Box 1490, Siksika, Alberta
T0J 3W0
Ph: (403) 734-5339
Fax: (403) 734-5497
Email
mediaoa@siksikanation.com
June2012
AITSINIKI - SIKSIKA NATION’S NEWSPAPER
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Oki, My name is Shon
Stimson the son of the late
Betty
Stimson,
My
grandparents were the late
Doris and Conner Stimson
and I am the father of 6
beautiful children with my
wife Crystal Rabbit Carrier. I
am the owner and founder of
"Warpaint Adventure" which
much of the community is
familiar with as the paintball
field;
however
it
now
facilitates the game of
Airsoft. I have had the
privilege and the honour to
utilize the old North Camp
gravel pit to see a dream of
mine become a reality which
is to own and manage a
small business of my own.
Warpaint
was
established as a paintball
field in the summer of 2003
and as the years went by
Warpaint
seen
limited
success and visitors. After
years
of
not
getting
anywhere with the facility I
had decided to give the field
one last chance in 2009 as I
had spent all those years,
hours and my own pocket
funds to keep the field alive it
was now becoming too much
of a burden to me and my
family. It was then that I
believe an act of God
intervened and inspired me
to take one more look at what
I had. I met up with an
individual that had the idea of
using the field to facilitate
airsoft. I gave it a try and
recommitted my energy to
seeing out the process. My
numbers
and
visitors
doubled in the first year and
have only been going up.
Warpaint facilitates the
game of Airsoft which is not
much different than paintball
but cleaner. Airsoft is an
action pursuit recreational
activity that uses markers
that shoot 6mm BB's to
eliminate or tag an opponent
out of a game. Most games
are
military
simulated
objectives like capturing the
satellite dish, protect VIP's,
team elimination and capture
the
flag.
Games
last
anywhere from half hour to
48 hours based on the story
line written into it. The
markers themselves shoot
BB's at around 340 Feet per
Second (FPS) to 460FPS.
Certified safety goggles are
mandatory to all players with
16-18 year olds must wear
full face protection.
Warpaint
is
now
recognized as one of if not
the best field in Alberta that
caters only to Airsoft. We are
recognized
though
out
Canada and now penetrating
the US market. The summer
of 2011 Warpaint was
included in a magazine
called "Take Aim" which is
sold in the U.S and Canada
specifically for the airsoft
community. The type of
clientele that visit are
professionals
from
exmilitary, current military,
EMS, volunteer fire fighters,
police officers as well as
private business owners. The
success of Warpaint has
provided a positive side
effect in the exposure and
economic benefits for our
small
businesses
and
community. These impacts
are far reaching in that they
will assist in the building of a
strong economic base for
Siksika. Other benefits are
the cultural exchanges that
occur amongst the diverse
ethnic backgrounds of the
clients and visitors that
attend Warpaint. Warpaint
provides job placement for
our post-secondary and high
school Summer Student
program and hires local
nation members out of
pocket to assist in special
projects. All of the work done
by outside individuals is on
volunteer basis and Warpaint
only covers cost of raw
materials and the use of the
field.
With any project there
are obstacles that must be
addressed and Warpaint
attempts to addresses these
issue's as best it can.
Environmentally Warpaint
only
uses
recyclable
materials that would have
gone into the land fill. BB's
used are bio degradable and
environmentally
safe.
Warpaint staff and owner do
regular site clean ups and
make available visible trash
and recycle bins on the field.
Access to the site by Nation
members is welcome and
encouraged but in times of
game bookings Warpaint
would like to ask that any
individuals please report to
field staff to ensure safe
passage as well as to extend
courtesy between both the
visitor and myself. Players
sign in with waivers and are
aware of the boundaries of
the field and are only there to
participate in games after
which they leave and return
to the communities from
where they came via the 901
highway. Visitors do however
make use of the local on
Nation gas stations to
purchase
fuel
and
refreshments before their
long trip home.
Warpaint
is
greatly
appreciative in the use of
land and growth it has
Piihkso (9)
experienced and tries to give
back. Aware that we do have
nation members residing in
Calgary that do use support
services there, Warpaint
participated in a fundraiser
last year for the Mustard
Seed located in Calgary
Alberta. All gate admissions
were donated and we helped
raise over $600.00, and so
now Warpaint is currently
working towards a fundraiser
for a local on the Nation
cause. As well Warpaint is
now seeing an increase of
clients from the nation and
has special pricing strategies
for them now with the talks of
having our own airsoft club.
In the past Warpaint assisted
in the Siksika Nation Youth
Awareness
Week
and
donated time and resources
to the event.
More
information
is
available on our website at
http://warpaintadventures.we
bs.com/ and soon to be on
Facebook or contact me at
(587)727-0421. Thanks to all
for
the
belief
and
encouraging words that went
a long way in giving us the
energy needed to continue
the journey, but nothing
would be possible without
the blessings of the Creator.
World Elder Abuse Day
What is the Origin of World
Elder Abuse Awareness Day
In Madrid in April 2002, countries
throughout the world adopted the
United Nations International Plan of
Action on Ageing. The Plan of Action
recognized the importance of
addressing and preventing abuse and
neglect of older adults. It identified
that mistreatment of older adults was
a
violation
of
internationally
recognized human rights.
Canadian research indicates that
between 4 and 10% of older adults
experience one or more forms of
abuse or neglect at some point in
their later years from someone they
trust or rely on. Under-reporting and
inconsistencies
in
collecting
information on abuse suggest that
these figures are “the tip of the
iceberg”
About 80% of abuse or neglect of
older adults is hidden or goes
undetected. Only about one in five
cases of abuse come to the attention
of community agencies or authorities.
Emotional abuse includes name
calling, intimidation, threats, yelling,
ignoring, or socially isolating the older
person. Emotional abuse is often a
form of control. Treating an older
adult “like a child” is another form of
emotional abuse. Emotional abuse
can cause emotional pain, anguish,
or distress. It can undermine an older
person’s sense of dignity and selfworth.
Emotional abuse is also
known as verbal, mental, or
psychological abuse.
Financial abuse is the most
common form of abuse of older
adults. It can involve illegally or
improperly using a person’s money,
assets, or property without the
person’s permission or knowledge. It
is often a form of theft or fraud.
Examples of financial abuse include:
pressuring for money, goods or
property; using property or money
without the person’s knowledge and
consent; and misusing a power of
attorney.
Neglect
can
be
physical,
emotional, or financial. It refers to
situations where a person has a
responsibility to provide care or
assistance to an older adult, but does
not.
For example, a neglectful
caregiver might stop paying the bills
or providing food, shelter, medication,
medical attention, or other forms of
assistance that the older adult needs
and cannot get on his or her own.
Abandoning the person is another
form of neglect. Abuse of older
adults most often occurs within the
family.
Abuse is a Crime
Many types of abuse or neglect
are crimes under the Criminal Code
of Canada. These include theft
(including theft by a person who has
been given power of attorney); fraud;
assault; sexual assault; criminal
intimation and harassment; failing to
provide a dependent person with the
necessities of life; and manslaughter
or murder.
Abuse or neglected older adults
have a 200% increased risk of early
death. The stress of living in an
abusive situation shortens older
people’s lives by several years on
average.
Older adults are becoming aware
that they do not have to live with
abuse or neglect. They are beginning
to feel it is safe to tell, because they
know that people care and that help is
available.
National Aboriginal Health Organization Launches Anti-b
bullying Web Site for Aboriginal
Youth
OTTAWA, ON, June 13,
2012 /CNW/ - Bullying has
become a major problem
among First Nations, Inuit
and Métis youth across
Canada.
The National Aboriginal
Health Organization (NAHO)
recognizes the impact of
bullying on Aboriginal youth,
and therefore, has created a
Web
site
to
provide
information to them, their
parents and teachers.
The Web site and its
materials were created in
partnership with the National
Aboriginal
Role
Model
Program and Kids Help
Phone, Canada’s leading
phone and online youth
counselling service. The site
contains tipsheets for youth,
parents and teachers, lesson
plans and presentations for
teachers and more.
Despite the prevalence of
bullying among First Nations,
Inuit and Métis children and
youth, there are few culturally
specific resources available
to offer assistance and
direction to those who are
dealing with it.
The Web
site and its resources were
created to get families and
schools talking about this
issue as well as offering
suggestions on how to work
together to prevent and
eliminate it from their
communities.
“Bullying is contrary to
the sense of connection
which traditionally exists
within First Nations, Inuit and
Métis communities,” says
Simon Brascoupé, NAHO’s
Acting
CEO.
“Bullying
among Aboriginal people is a
form of lateral violence and
has caused a rift among our
peoples which we can see
coming out in our children’s
behaviour. This site and its
resources have been created
to
help
foster
a
reconnection.”
NAHO has partnered with
Kids Help Phone on this
campaign to provide support
to Aboriginal youth who are
dealing with bullying or other
related issues.
“Kids Help Phone is
committed to the health and
well being of Aboriginal
youth,” says Alisa Simon,
Vice-President, Counselling
Services and Programs, Kids
Help Phone. “Collaborating
with NAHO to create these
anti-bullying tipsheets is an
important step to ensuring
young people, and the adults
in their communities, have
access to culturally-sensitive
tools to address bullying.
Kids Help Phone was
pleased to help develop
these tipsheets that focus on
community
values
and
highlight the ways in which
bullying is incompatible with
these values.”
Kiipo (10)
AITSINIKI - SIKSIKA NATION’S NEWSPAPER
Thank You Letter
The family of Late Amos
Conrad Fox, Passed away May
8th 2012 at the age of 54 yrs at
the Rockview General Hospital,
Would like to thank the
following: Family, Individuals,
and Departments for their
assistance with prayers, food,
flowers, and their time for our
dear
Dad,
Brother
and
Grandfathers Passing.
ICU Doctors & Nurses (RGH)
Siksika Fire & Rescue
Gleichen R.C.M.P.
Marvine Winnipeg & Family
Bobby Bull Bear
Donna L.L.
Julianna Burke
Teresa B.E.
Adalene Storm
Shirley B.B.
Fonda B.O.M.
Siksika Public Works
Eulailia Running Rabbit &
FamilyJamie Axe Y.O.W.
Darryl McDonald
Mona Royal
Ph: 403-734-2644
Ph: 403-734-2047
Siksika Treasury
Siksika Health
Sandra Sparvier
Jeffrey (JR) Water Chief
Lavina Cross Guns
Lee Brass & Candice .M.G.
Armond D.C.
Geraldine Red Gun
Crises Unit
Bruce & Wanda C.R.
Michelle White Eagle
Delphine Star Light
Danny Stimson
Wesley Three Suns
Rick Bear Hat
Rev. Gerard LeStrat, OMI
June 2012
To the Constituents of Little Bow
Little Bow Constituency Office Information
Mailing address:
Box 231, CARMANGAY, Alberta T0L 0N0
Phone Numbers: 1-800-563-0917 for all calls within Alberta
Fax Number: 403-643-2024
E-Mail Address: little.bow@assembly.ab.ca
Office Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday – 8:00 –
4:00 p.m.
Appointments and meetings by request
We are here to assist with all your Provincial concerns
Mr. Ian Donovan, M.L.A., Little Bow
The family apologizes if we
have left anyone out. Thankyou from his Children: Darcy &
Jody Starlight, Shawn &
Vernon Axe & Amy Hunter. His
Siblings: Ronald Fox, Alfred
Fox, Regina Fox, Joanne Y.H.
Derik Calf Child, Joyce Peaire
Any questions, call Lois at 1-800-563-0917.
June 2012
AITSINIKI - SIKSIKA NATION’S NEWSPAPER Nitsikopoto(11)
SIKOTAN IKIMMAPII CONSULTING
The business name was given to me by
Nistahbankii. Sikotan is my late maternal
grandmothers name and she was a caring
compassionate person. Sikotan's kindness
and generosity was shown by her giving
heart, loving behaviors, and sharing
everything she can. She had also shared
the sacredness of Niitsitapi through
stories and legends and ikimmapii.
-Kaan
____________________________
Sikotan is a non-profit consulting
business that teaches the Niitsitapi Ways
of Knowing. All these teachings are aimed
at bettering ourselves and bettering our
community. Once this vision is
accomplished, we can move forward to
make better lives for ourselves and future
generations. We are hosting up-coming
professional workshops, community
events and trainings for both the
community and professionals (on & off
reserve). We are currently seeking
donations that can contribute to our
organization and will be acknowledge with
each Sikotan Ikimmapii event.
Kanakii Mekaisto
Professional Summer Workshops (located at SRDL 9-3pm)
"INDIAN RESIDENTIAL SCHOOL" FROM A FIRST NATION (SURVIVOR/S) PERSPECIVE.
DATES: JULY 10, 2012 & AUGUST 7, 2012
NIITSITAPI WAYS OF KNOWING (BLACKFOOT KNOWLEDGE)
DATES: TO BE ANOUNCED
TOPOGRAPHY OF THE BLACKFOOT CONFEDERATIONS TERRITORY "SACRED SITES"
DATES: JUNE 26, 2012
INTERGENERATIONAL TRAUMA
DATES: JULY 17, 2012 & AUGUST 14, 2012
THE BLACKFTOOT LANGUAGE "A SECOND LANGUAGE PERSPECTIVE"
DATES: JULY 24, 2012 & AUGUST 21, 2012
HEALING THE CHILD THROUGH TRADITIONAL AND EURO PRACTICES
DATES: JULY 31, 2012 AUGUST 28, 2012
*FOR MORE INFORMATION AND REGISTRATION PLEASE CALL KANAKII AT 403.734.0012*
Natsikopoto(12) AITSINIKI - SIKSIKA NATION’S NEWSPAPER
June 2012