2012 Vol 6 Issue 3 Sept The Drum Beat ENG

MADAWASKA MALISEET FIRST NATION
From left to right: Honourable Bernard Valcourt, City of
Edmundston Mayor Cyrille Simard, Honourable Madeleine
Dubé, Lyne Pelletier, RCMP officer Charles Dunphy, and
Chief Joanna Bernard at the MMFN’s inauguration
ceremony for the Kapskuksisok Sacred Ground
MMFN spiritual gathering and
MMFN
re-submits inauguration of Sacred Ground
land claim
The MMFN's lands claim for a
loss of approximately 1000 acres
along the western corridor of the
reserve was submitted to the Specific
Claims Tribunal on August 13, 2012. A
response from Canada is expected by
November 13th of this year. The whole
process could take a year or two.
The claim asserts that the land was
taken over by the government without
proper procedure of surrender by the
MMFN and that the government failed
...Continued on page 2
Truck Stop
opening
...page 2
The MMFN held its first annual fourday Spiritual Gathering on August 2-5,
2012. The high point of the weekend was a
special inauguration ceremony performed
on Saturday, August 4th for MMFN's newly
designated Sacred Ground.
The event heralds the start of a whole
new era of cultural pride for the people of the
MMFN, according to Chief Joanna Bernard.
“We have been blessed and we are very
grateful,” said the Chief, “This gathering
was a great achievement and it has brought
the people together in ways far deeper than
we ever imagined.”
Crews were hard at work for several
months, planning and preparing the land for
the event. Throughout the weekend,
volunteers came together to help out in a
Aboriginal
Day
...page 4
number of ways including cooking and
cleanup.
“On behalf of the band,” said Chief
Joanna, “we offer our deepest thanks to all
those who helped out, and especially to Lyne
and Michel Pelletier, our Cultural
Organizers, without whom none of this
would have been possible. Their hard work
and dedication have been an essential part of
the cultural revitalization of this
community.”
The elements conspired to provide ideal
weather for most of the event and an
amazing experience for roughly 200
attendees of the gathering.
The sacred fire was lit on Thursday
evening, which was followed
...Continued on page 6
Walk-a-thon
for Cancer
...page 10
MMFN re-submits land claim
to provide adequate compensation for the
land in question.
This is the second time the MMFN has
tendered this claim to the Government of
Canada. A First Nation may file a claim with
the Specific Claims Tribunal only if the
claim has been previously filed with the
Minister, and the Minister has notified the
First Nation in writing of his or her decision
not to negotiate the claim, in whole or in
part.
The original claim was submitted to the
Specific Claims Branch, Indian and
Northern Affairs Canada on April 16, 1998.
The claim was acknowledged in May of
1988 but it took the government another ten
years to respond. Michel Roy, Senior
Assistant Deputy Minister, Treaties and
Aboriginal Government, wrote to the
MMFN on January 13, 2009 declaring that
the Claim had not been accepted for
negotiation by the Minister of Indian Affairs
and Northern Development on the basis that
there was no outstanding lawful obligation
on the part of the Government of Canada
because the specific parcels of land (Parcels
A, B and C) did not constitute a “reserve”
within the meaning of the Indian Act at the
time they were alienated.
...Continued from page 1
The difference between the claim being
presented to the Claims Branch versus being
put before the Tribunal is that the case will
now be heard in front of court appointed
judges.
Patricia Bernard, the lead lawyer, and
Rick Hatchett, an assistant lawyer for the
case, are both thoroughly versed in the
details of the claim. Patricia conducted the
original research and submitted the first
claim in 1998.
“There are dozens of strong historical
references to prove the validity of our
claim,” said Patricia, the details of which
can be found online at http://www.scttrp.ca/curre/details_e.asp?ClaimID=20121
001. “We’re confident about the facts of the
case and welcome any questions anyone
may have about it.”
New interim CEO for MMFN
Economic Development Corp.
Gabriel Sacratini passed away
suddenly on June 25, 2012 at the age
of 60.
Gabriel was the son of
Domenica and the late Vincenzo
Sacratini. He leaves behind his sons
Vincent and Dean and his daughter
Cassandra, his brother Peter
(Carole), his nieces Keri (Peter) and
Amanda (Mariano) and families,
and many relatives and friends. The
funeral service was held on Friday,
June 29, 2012 in Montreal, followed
by interment at Notre-Dame-desNeiges cemetery.
Gabriel was the Chief
Executive Officer for the
Madawaska Maliseet First Nation
Economic Development
Corporation. His work on the
emergent Grey Rock Power Centre
is greatly appreciated and he will be
missed by his friends in this
community.
The band dedicated the scale
model of the Grey Rock Power
Center to Gabe’s memory with a
plaque with his name inscribed on it.
The model is on display at the
Madawaska Entertainment Center.
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Richard Lang was recently hired as the
interim CEO for the MMFN Economic
Development Corporation following the
unfortunate passing of CEO Gabriel
Sacratini.
Richard, a senior consultant for
Cushman and Wakefield for many years, is
now responsible for ensuring that our land is
leased to potential tenants within the
guidelines set forth by the MMFN
Economic Development Board.
Richard was chosen for his extensive
experience in building and construction
management, as well as real estate purchase
and lease negotiations. His understanding of
First Nations culture and his experience in
land development make him a perfect
candidate for building sustainable
partnerships between municipalities, private
entrepreneurs, and the MMFN.
Edmundston Truck Stop Opening
at the Grey Rock Power Center
T h e n e w
Edmundston Truck
Stop and Shell
station at the Grey
Rock Power Center
is expected to open
its doors to
customers in late
September.
The truck stop
is the first of many
new businesses
Edmundston Truck Stop set to open in late September 2012
expected to open at the Power Center in the
With 15 lots designated for general
near future.
commercial use, and a signed service
“This is only the beginning,” said agreement with the city of Edmundston for
Richard Lang, the new CEO for the MMFN water and sewage, Richard is confident
Economic Development Corporation, “The about the success of the venture. “The land is
Grey Rock Power Center will become the ready,” he said, “We have a strong team in
greatest source of revenue the MMFN has place, and we are open for business!”
ever had.”
2
SEPTEMBER 2012
MMFN fishing
boat excursion
The MMFN invited band members for
a short cruise on board its three fishing
vessels, Fishin'Fever, Roxanne II, and
Brenda's Destiny, on July 22nd. Over 30
participants set sail from the wharf in St.
Anne de Kent. The weather was picture
perfect. Several folks tossed in a fishing line
and were thrilled to catch some mackerel.
Band members and the crews of MMFN’s
three fishing boats enjoyed a cruise and
a little fishing on July 22, 2012.
MMFN donates teepee to Mizpah
A First
N a t i o n s
cultural symbol
has found a new
home at a
sanctuary
dedicated to
cancer victims
Night view of tipi at Mizpah a n d o t h e r
individuals stricken with grief.
The sanctuary called Mizpah, a Hebrew
word meaning “to help one another”, was
built by Dick Corbin in 1991 in the town of
Grand Isle, Northern Maine. Mizpah is a
place of solitude, peace, and tranquility
which is open free of charge to the public.
“Dick is a friend who has been helping
people as long as we can remember,” said
Michel Pelletier, MMFN's Cultural
Organizer, “He is a person full of love who
shares it in many ways. He dreamed of
having a tepee to grace the place of worship
and healing that he created some time ago.
We were happy to help make his dream
come true.”
The teepee, donated by the MMFN,
was erected by MMFN band members and
local volunteers on July 29, 2012.
After the teepee was raised, Lyne and
Michel Pelletier offered a blessing and
gifted Dick with a white Eagle feather and a
braid of sweetgrass, then sang the traditional
song “All our people, this is for you.”
Approximately 5000 guests visit
Mizpah every year during the months of
May to Oct. For more information, visit
http://www.mizpah.us/.
Joseph Normand Grinnell created a
video of the event which can be viewed
online at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8B
G4z-efbKY&feature=share .
Chief’s speech at the 2012 Foire Brayonne
By Sherry Dupuis
Edmundston's Foire Brayonne
Festival, held this year on August 1-5, was
another spectacular success.
The Foire Brayonne is one of the most
notable French-Canadian music festivals
and attracts roughly 140,000 visitors during
the five-day fiesta of concerts and events.
The festival also celebrates the
“spiritedness” of the Madawaskans.
Guest speaker, Chief Joanna Bernard,
was invited again this year along with other
elected city officials. The Chief addressed
festival-goers about the inauguration of the
Sacred Grounds as well as the strong
relationship between the MMFN and its
neighbors.
“Having a representative from the
MMFN give a speech at the Foire Brayonne
has become an important tradition,” said
Joanna, “Such speeches reach many people,
and send a very positive message about
respect and kinship.”
Group shot of invitees and speakers at the opening of the Foire-Brayonne
THE DRUM BEAT
3
Chief Joanna with Typique,
the Foire Brayonne Mascot
SEPTEMBER 2012
MMFN's 2012 Aboriginal Day Celebrations
“Go big or go home!” was the motto for
this year's Aboriginal Day celebrations on
June 23rd and, true to form, the event was
bigger and better than ever.
The day was filled with excitement,
games, music, great food, fireworks, and
tons of fun. A thrilling new bungee jumping
apparatus by Euro Bungy was introduced
this year, along with four trampolines, and
the ever popular inflatable gym. Kids of all
ages enjoyed the creative face painting, and
the little ones were endearingly transfixed
by the spectacle of M. Ballon the clown and
his fascinating balloon creations.
The washer tournament was a blast.
First place was a draw and the winnings
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were split between the teams of Andre
Cimon and Karen Martin, and Perry Francis
and Cecile Francis. Third place was won by
Philippe Francis and Denise Couturier.
A scrumptious meal of chicken and ribs
was catered by La Petite Boucherie. The
music by CSAI Disco Mobile got everyone
up and swinging around the campfire. The
fireworks were, as always, a big hit.
The band would like to send out a
hearty thank you to Francine Cimon for
organizing the event and to everyone who
volunteered their time and energy to make
this an extra special event, and to the
following
donators of cash
4
and prizes: Martin Small Equipment,
Mazda, Toyota, Dodge, Boissonnault
McGraw, Eagle View Convenience Store,
Jacques Hébert, Madawaska Entertainment
Center, Maliseet Body Shop, Pirate de la
Mer, Ronald Charest, and Sakiyik.
SEPTEMBER 2012
MMFN representatives attend service
to honour Kateri - Lily of the Mohawks
Two MMFN representatives were
among hundreds of people attending a
special outdoor service honouring Blessed
Kateri Tekakwitha at the Cathedral of
Immaculate Conception Parish in
Edmundston on August 5. Kateri, known as
the Lily of the Mohawks, will become the
first native woman to be canonized by the
Catholic Church in a ceremony to be held on
October 21 in Rome.
Diane Pelletier and her daughter JamieJo represented the MMFN at the Edmunston
service. Resplendent in their beautiful
golden regalia, the ladies presented a drum
and sweetgrass to Mgr. Claude Champagne
on behalf of the MMFN.
Kateri Tekakwitha was born in New
York State in 1656 and died on April 17,
1680. She was an Algonquin-Mohawk
woman who became known as a Catholic
religious lay woman. As a child, Kateri
survived smallpox, which killed her
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immediate family. She was later raised by
relatives. At age 20, she was baptized as a
Roman Catholic and spent the remainder of
her short life at the Jesuit mission in the
village of Kahnawake, south of Montreal.
Diane Pelletier
and her
daughter
Jamie-Jo
represented
the MMFN
at the service
5
Kateri was beatified by Pope John Paul
II in 1980. On December 19, 2011, the
Congregation for the Causes of Saints
certified a second miracle, which dates from
2006 when a young, half Lummi native boy
in Washington State survived a severe flesheating bacterium. Doctors were unable to
stop the progress of the disease by surgery
and advised his parents that he was likely to
die. The family, friends and an extended
network of contacts through their son's
classmates claim to have prayed through
Kateri for divine intercession. The boy
received his Last Rites from a Roman
Catholic priest before the disease suddenly
stopped its progression. It was declared a
miracle and Kateri Tekakwitha was
accredited with its source.
This miracle was sanctioned by Pope
Benedict XVI and paved the way for her
canonization in October.
SEPTEMBER 2012
MMFN Spiritual Gathering 2012
by drumming, talking circles and
stories. The elders performed a
blessing ceremony on Friday
afternoon for two birch bark canoes
built this year by the community.
Afterwards, there were more storytelling, language and medicine
teachings, as well as a sweat lodge
ceremony.
Dawn was met on Saturday
with a sunrise ceremony. At noon,
60 participants joined in a
memorable ten-mile canoe trip
down the St. John River, ending on
the shores of MMFN's Sacred
...Continued from page 1
their presence.
After the ribbon-cutting, the
Kapiskukok shawl dancers
performed a dance to the rhythm of
the Negootgook drummers,
accompanied by some members of
the audience. The dancers were
spectacular in their brilliant yellow
regalia coupled with bright red tshirts with the MMFN logo and the
words “Sacred Ground”
embroidered on the breast. The tshirts were specially made for the
event.
From left to right, Honourable Bernard Valcourt, Chief Joanna,
...Continued on page 7
Honourable Madeleine Dubé, and the City Mayor Cyrille Simard
Honoured guests with Chief Joanna Bernard, Michel and Lyne Pelletier and
members of Kapsukuk shawl dancers group who performed at the inauguration ceremony
Ground. The sun-soaked (and some watersoaked) happy travelers were met with
drumming as they paddled beneath the
Edmundston-Madawaska border bridge,
and later landed at the Sacred Ground just in
time to kick off the inauguration ceremony.
Several government and municipal
officials attended the inauguration
ceremony and helped Chief Joanna cut the
ribbon to mark the official dedication of the
Sacred Land. Thanks go to the Honourable
Bernard Valcourt, Honourable Madeleine
Dubé, and City of Edmundston Mayor
Cyrille Simard for honouring the band with
Chief Joanna with band member
RCMP officer Charles Dunphy
A song to launch the Blessing of the Canoes ceremony: From left to right: Philippe Francis, Ed Perley, Michel Pelletier, Lyne Pelletier,
Charles “Diamond” Nicholas, Veronica Moonstream Wolfeagle, Cathy Bernard, and Larry Belanger
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6
SEPTEMBER 2012
...Continued from page 6
Nation. Charles (Diamond)
Nicholas, pipe carrier, drum keeper,
spiritual guide, drug and alcohol
consultant, and traditional teacher
from Tobique First Nation. Edward
Perley, Pipe carrier, drum player,
spiritual guide, and traditional
teacher from Tobique First Nation.
Solomon (Rocky) Bear, traditional
teacher, specialist in medicinal
plants. Christ Polchies, pipe carrier,
traditional teacher, lodge keeper
from Woodstock First Nation.
Floyd Bernard, for being there
every day to help us build the
Later in the evening, elder
Veronica Moonstream Wolfeagle
performed another sweat lodge
ceremony where several members
of the community were given their
Maliseet spirit names.
“It was a life-changing
experience,” said MMFN band
member Russ Letica, who had
flown in from his home in Las
Vegas to attend the gathering.
The remainder of the event was
filled with more cultural sharing,
teachings, singing, drumming,
Lyne and Michel Pelletier, Dr. Yves Carrier, Philippe Francis, Georges
Lebel, Brian Stuart and Diamond Nicholas
Detail of birch bark canoe made by
Steve Cayard, Noel Francis, Philippe
Francis, Georges Lebel, and Yves Carrier.
participation from both the community and
people from outside of the reserve.
“For us, it was a success all the way,”
they said, “Our number one goal was to help
give our people pride in being First Nations
people; proud of where we are from and
proud of where we are going. We wanted to
have the youth participate in the
ceremonies, so they would learn the
teachings to pass on to future generations,
Elder and former Chief, Margaret Bernard,
blesses the canoes with cedar and water
dancing, personal ceremonies, and
memories to last a life time.
Lyne and Michel Pelletier, MMFN's
Cultural Organizers, were very happy with
the outcome of the gathering and the
village on Sacred Ground.
A special thank you also goes out to all
the volunteers and helpers: Brian Stuart and
his wife Bernie (preparation of the site and
fire keepers), Nick Boidi (fire keeper and
lodge guardian) Rhonda Belanger, Guy
Belanger, Doreen Pelletier, Dean Pelletier
(cooking team), Mary Reed (volunteer and
all the nice signs), Karen Bisson (volunteer
and drum making teacher), Eric Bourgeault
(donation of Tim Hortons coffee), Steve
Wallace (donation of firewood), Charles
Dunphy (RCMP volunteer), Suzy Marmen
MMFN community doctor, Dr. Yves Carrier,
takes the canoe on its inaugural journey
Diamond Nicholas smudges
one of the birch bark canoes
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and we wanted to help the older people in
our community to stop the shame some still
carry about being Indian. We also wanted to
invite people from outside the reserve so
they could get to know and understand us
better. The message was passed on, and the
future generations have a place for culture
and traditions, if we give it a chance. We
need to keep it alive, and activities like this
one will help do that.”
Many thanks go out to our elders:
Veronica Moonstream Wolfeagle, a pipe
carrier, sweat lodge keeper, spiritual guide,
and traditional teacher from Tobique First
7
...Continued on page 8
Drummers from L to R: Ed Perley, Diamond
Nicholas, Michel Pelletier, Philippe Francis
SEPTEMBER 2012
...Continued from page 7
(volunteer and regalia), Diane Fournier
(volunteer and regalia), Fernand Fournier
(volunteer), Harvey Ruest (volunteer and
fire truck), Joanna Bernard, Patricia
Bernard, Diane Pelletier (Chief and Council
helpers and volunteers), Russ Letica
(volunteer), Claudia Julien (volunteer) and
the Kapskuksisok group (Michel, Lyne,
Mary, Julie, Chantal, Ashley, Jessica,
Noémi, Eve, Jamie Jo, Bella Rose,
Annabelle, Jasmine, Nadine, Faith, Pearl,
Stephane, Philippe, and the canoe makers
Steve Cayard, Noel Francis, Philippe
Francis, Georges Lebel, and Yves Carrier.
Woliwon to all!
The St-John River
which the Maliseet call the
Wolastoq (Wulustuk, or
Walloostook) is a Maliseet
word meaning “Beautiful
River”.
The Maliseet called
themselves Wolastoqiyik,
meaning the People of the
Beautiful River.
THE DRUM BEAT
8
SEPTEMBER 2012
...Continued from page 8
THE DRUM BEAT
9
SEPTEMBER 2012
Sleep-over at the MMFN Sacred Ground
The first of what folks are hoping
will be many sleepover events was held
at the MMFN's Sacred Ground on
August 21, 2012. Event-goers enjoyed
the drumming, games, and story-telling
so much, they could be heard for miles.
“The drumming and singing were so
loud, it could be heard throughout the
community and into Madawaska Maine
that night,” said Lyne Pelletier. She and
her husband Michel Pelletier organized
the event.
“The kids had a blast playing musical
chairs to the sound of the drum, and when it
was time to go to bed, they were so excited
to be sleeping in a
teepee.”
Snacks and
alcohol-free drinks
were provided as
well as breakfast
and lunch. The
evening began at
6:30 pm and
finished at 4:00 pm
the following day.
“ I t
w a s
fantastic,” said Lyne
. “The night was
cold but the day was perfect. We had 25
adults and 11 children sleep over. We also
had a lot of participants who didn't sleep
but they enjoyed the gathering.”
Many thanks go out to Ramona
Boidi, Nick Boidi, Mary Reed and Suzy
Marmen who took the time to help make
this event possible. “A special thanks to
Ramona & Nick who came back to help
us pick up all the things at the end of the
day,” said Lyne, “We need more people
like them. Woliwon!”
MMFN’s Floyd Bernard raises money for
cancer awareness at Mizpah Walk-a-Thon
MMFN's Floyd Bernard got more than
he bargained for on Sunday, August 26th,
2012 when he set out on the Mizpah Walk-aThon in Mizpah, ME to raise money in
support for cancer survivors. His goal was to
raise just $100, but Floyd was astounded
when the donations kept rolling in. He
raised a total of $700 and a whole lot of
spirits on that sunny day.
The proceeds from the Walk-a-Thon
were used to make nameplates on the
memory wall at the Mizpah spiritual
sanctuary to honour cancer survivors as well
as those who have passed away.
Nameplates were made in memory of
Floyd's wife Gail Bernard and Brenda
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Wallace, members of the MMFN who lost
their battles with cancer. With the extra
funds, Floyd was also able to have two
larger plates made to commemorate all band
members who are currently ill or who have
passed away from the disease.
Floyd sends a warm thank you out to all
those who supported him and donated to this
cause. He also sends a special thanks to John
Bernard for his very generous donation.
10
Elayne Saucier and Floyd Bernard standing
in front of the plates honouring the memories
of Gail Bernard and Brenda Wallace
SEPTEMBER 2012
New Public Relations Officer for the MMFN
Sherry Dupuis, MMFN’s new
Public Relations Officer
Chief and Council are happy to
announce that Sherry Francis Dupuis has
joined the administration team as the new
Public Relations Officer.
After numerous job postings both
inside and outside the community, the band
is proud to have found a qualified band
Cloutier off
to Guelph
University
John Cloutier with his mother,
Chief Joanna Bernard
John Charles Cloutier, son of Chief
Joanna Bernard, is heading off to Guelph
University for his Masters in engineering
this year.
The MMFN proudly congratulates
and wishes him all the very best.
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member to fill this position.
Sherry is responsible for
coordinating and planning
events/parties, writing proposals and
memos and other documents. You can
spot her most often at events with a
camera strapped around her neck
taking pictures.
Sherry is the daughter of Perry
Francis and Gisele McLaughlin and
has been living in Nova Scotia for the
past 20 years as an off-reserve band
member.
She is bilingual and
graduated in 2008 from Dalhousie
University with a BA in Sociology and
has worked in administration for law,
architecture and engineering firms.
Her passion for communitybuilding and environmental
protection led her to Costa Rica this
year where she volunteered for an ecotourism project working at an animal
rescue shelter and farm. She was also
able to live-out her dream of playing
with wild monkeys in the jungle.
She has a strong sense of humor
and enjoys photography, reading
non-fiction books and listening to
music of any genre or decade/era. Her
guilty pleasures are science/history
documentaries as she is an adventureseeker always looking for new
destinations for travel.
In Loving Memory of David
Bernard who left us way too soon
David Bernard, son of Floyd
Bernard and of the late Gail Bernard
died September 3rd, 2012 at Nashua,
New Hampshire at the age of 48 years.
Buried at Edmundston, NB
September 10th, 2012
He leaves behind his sisters Susan
Fraser (Wilfred), Dianne LeBlanc
(Kevin), and nephew Willie Fraser.
He will be deeply missed.
Congratulations to Sal Poirier and
Kelly Aldrich who were married on
September 1, 2012.
The groom is the son of Patricia
Bernard and Keith Poirer, and the bride
is the daughter of Brian and Deb
Aldrich.
The service and reception were
held on the MMFN at the home of
Patricia Bernard and Perry Francis.
“It was a spectacular day for the
happy couple,” said Patricia, “the
ceremony was absolutely beautiful and
everything went smoothly.”
11
SEPTEMBER 2012
2012 Corn Boil and Washer Tournament
By Sherry Dupuis
This year's Corn Boil will be held on
September 22nd, 2012 from 2-6 pm. The
recreation centre is booked solid for
September so the location for the event has
been changed to Little Falls Road.
We'll be serving – you guessed it – corn
on the cob, as well as some delicious corn
chowder, hamburgers, chips and a variety of
beverages. Snacks will be available
throughout the event and those who bring
their own reusable cups get a special treat!
This year there will be a new game
called Disc Slam. Think you know how to
throw a Frisbee? THINK AGAIN! Prove
your skills at Disc Slam and you could win a
$100 gift certificate to Walmart!!! But don't
worry, if Disc Slam isn't your thing there
will also be “Pyramid of Cans”, “Fish in the
Pool” and “Balloon Pop!”! There are so
many cool prizes to be won for people of all
ages!!! Visit :
Facebook.com/MadawaskaMaliseet
FN for more details on prizes!
Come warm up by the fire after we eat
and enjoy some friendly conversation with
your neighbours and community members.
MMFN Photo Contest - “Eat and be Merry”
By Sherry Dupuis
Do you have an eye for photography? If
you think you've got what it takes and are a
band member you are eligible to submit a
photo not later than October 15th, 2012 to
enter the contest. There will be a panel of
five Elders who will review the photos and
judge them based on the best interpretation
of this year's theme using originality and
creativity.
This contest's theme is “Eat and be
Merry”. Use your imagination and let your
creative juices flow! The only thing we ask
is that you 'keep it real' and avoid using any
digital enhancements or adjustments. There
will be cash prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place
finalists so grab your camera and start
snapping!
Send your submissions to Sherry
Dupuis at the band office or email
sasewimal@hotmail.co.uk.
Summer Day Camp at the Rec Center
MMFN’s
Summer
Day Camp
Did You Know?...
… that the name Maliseet actually
means “slow talker” or “broken talker”?
The word Maliseet is the exonym by
which the Mi'kmaqs referred to this
group when they spoke about them to
early Europeans.
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This year’s summer day
camp at the recreation center was
loads of fun.
Special thanks to Isabelle Cyr
and her helpers Simone Bernard,
Chantale Lapointe, and Nicky
Bernard for managing the happy
crew and helping to make this
summer a memorable one.
By Sherry Dupuis
… that we never lived in tepees?
Maliseets lived in a structure called a
wigwam. Wigwams are not as easily
erected as tepees but are small and round
and can hold up against almost any
terrible weather.
12
… that our ancestors never wore war
bonnet headdresses (headpiece we see
most often today with many feathers and
decorations) like our friends of the west,
the Sioux? Rather, the Maliseet wore a
headband consisting of a feather in it or a
beaded cap.
SEPTEMBER 2012
New Office
for MMFN
Accountant
Co-produced by Karen Bisson & Sherry Dupuis
In the Native American culture, it is believed that when you are born, an animal totem, or
birth totem is born with you and acts as your guide and protector. Much like the Zodiac,
your Animal Medicine birth totem corresponds with your calendar month and therefore,
can be read in similar fashion. Each birth totem has significant traits and these are
sometimes apparent in our personalities and day-to-day lives.
Hawk, take some time to soar above your life and use those razor sharp eyes
to look closely at both your personal and professional situations. All eyes are
on you right now. Stay optimistic and maintain a good attitude.
Hawk
Mar 21 - Apr 19
Beaver, you may have been noticing a lot of changes going on in your life
lately; new endeavors, relationships forming almost overnight. Don't panic.
You are, after all, the master builder. These changes are leading you to bigger
and better opportunities.
Beaver
Apr 20 - May 20
Deer, the seasonal harvest that brings growth and abundance into your life is
being greatly magnified at this moment by the powerful influence of the planet
Jupiter. This began in June and will continue until 2013. The laws of attraction
are in full force so be sure to stay well connected to your inner-voice.
Deer
The MMFN recently constructed an
office building at 1633 Main Street
(beside Native Lights), which will be
leased to their accountant, Dale Soucy.
May 21 - Jun 21
Commitment is an important issue for you right now, Woodpecker.
Relationships that don't live up to your values are likely to be drummed into
question. Some of you will be dealing with gossip or outside pressures. Resist
the urge to take flight as this is only temporary. Patience is the key.
Woodpecker
Jun 21 - Jul 21
Maliseet Words
Compiled by Sherry Dupuis
Dog:
Olomuss
Fork (utensil):
Mitsut
Oven (to cook in): Apon
Purple (color):
Sunapocihte
Song:
Lintuwakon
Beach (shore) : Sitom
Groom (at wedding): Lusu
Ketchup:
Kehcap
Icing:
Skitoloqehtikon
(Try saying that one fast!)
Salmon, you've been quite focused on career goals this year and have done
very well. But now it's time to turn fin and swim back to your friends and loved
ones for some quality time. They've missed you. If you are in a romantic
relationship this would be a great time to plan a special night for two.
Salmon
Jul 21 - Aug 21
Bear, you've spent the first half of this year building your skill set and many
planetary energies have been in great support of you. Nevertheless, you must
take care to balance all the areas of your life. Don't forget to share a little honey
with your loved ones.
Brown Bear
Aug 22 - Sep 21
The last few years have been tough for you, dear Raven. Cheer up, things are
about to change. You've spent much time learning to fend for yourself and, in
the process, were a little aloof, introspective, and less impulsive. This year, a
stronger, more realistic, and more mature "you" emerges. Remember to
laugh, reflect, and above all, stay optimistic. Don't forget, you “caw” all the
shots!
Raven
Sep 22 - Oct 22
Community
Yard Sale
Getting your life into order is the focus now, Snake. Things you've neglected
will suddenly slither into the forefront and become pressing. It would be wise to
prepare for this cycle by carefully considering your responsibilities. Tend to
them, slowly but surely, so that you are not overwhelmed.
Snake
Oct 23 - Nov 22
By Sherry Dupuis
If you stopped by the Native
Lights Candle shop anytime after 8
a.m. on Saturday August 25th, 2012,
you might have had a problem
finding a place to park. The
community yard sale was a huge
success. “It was awesome! Lots of
people came,” said Joan Ruest,
owner of the Native Lights Candle
shop and organizer of the event.
While Joan attributes much of
the event's success to the special
guests she invited from off the
reserve, she hopes to see more
community participation next year.
Joan would like to thank all
those who participated and came out
to the event.
THE DRUM BEAT
The planetary energies are shifting Owl, and you're going to have a “hoot” of a
good time. Pleasing others is a theme, but lucky for you, it's a two-way street.
Others will be supportive and interested but you must take care not to become
too dependent.
Owl
Nov 23 - Dec 21
Goose, it's time to acknowledge the support of your loved ones and
coworkers. Establish yourself as a team player. Home life may be a bit
unsettled. Financial issues need to be dealt with, but don't get in a flap about it.
This will ultimately lead to improved attitudes and strategies for managing
money.
Goose
Dec 22 - Jan 19
Life is full and happy, just the way playful Otter likes it. There is much positive
growth in your life, including the possibility of expanding your family. The
planets will be splashing things around a bit though over the next little while, to
remind you of the importance of structure, responsibility, and reputation.
Realign your goals with your inner voice.
Otter
Jan 20 - Feb 18
You've been struggling with some issues of structure within your intimate
world and in your shared finances, Wolf. But you are in control of your life and
your step becomes increasingly sure as you pad your way through the next
few months. This same energy will also help you focus on practical matters.
Wolf
Feb 19 - Mar 20
13
SEPTEMBER 2012
Annual Report is now
on the MMFN website
The Annual Report to the Community (ARC) and audit
reports are now available on the MMFN website at:
www.madawaskamaliseetfirstnation.com under the
heading “Policies and Reports”. Contact Donna Bourgeault at
the Band office for a password to access the reports.
As reported in the last issue of the Drumbeat, the ARC is
part of a new National Pilot Project to reduce reporting
requirements for First Nations communities. The MMFN was
chosen out of 38 First Nations communities to participate in the
pilot project.
Your Opinion Counts!
Do you have a knack for writing and a nose for news?
Do you have a great story and want to share it? We're
looking for local news and stories about folks in our
community, opinions, words of wisdom from the elders,
photos, questions, suggestions and more. All age groups
are encouraged.
Please contact Sherry Dupuis at the Band office at
(506) 739-9765 for more information.
The Drumbeat Newsletter is written (unless otherwise
indicated), designed and edited by Karen Bisson
Madawaska Maliseet First Nation
1771 Main Street, M.M.F.N., N.B., E7C 1W9
Tel: (506) 739-9765
Fax: (506) 735-0024
For more information, members are encouraged to visit:
www.madawaskamaliseetfirstnation.com
Joanna Bernard
Patricia Bernard
Diane Pelletier
Receptionist:
Linda Beaulieu
Health Director:
Catherine Bernard
Community Health Representative: Micheline Plante
Nurse:
Janelle Grondin
Education Director: Linda Wallace
Housing Coordinator: David Gagnon
NNADAP Councillor: Michel Pelletier
Social Development Officer: Louise Ouellette
Indian Registry Administrator: Patricia Wallace
Band Administrator: Donna Wallace-Bourgeault
Public Relations Officer: Sherry Dupuis
Chief:
Councillors:
SEPTEMBER
Sal Poirier & Kelly Aldrich
Jeffrey McLaughlin & Gisèle Dupuis
Perry Francis & Patricia Bernard
Patrick Wallace & Irène Comeau
Philip McIntyre & Frances Sherwood
OCTOBER
Fernand Neveu & Aurore Cimon
Michel Pelletier & Lyne Desroches
THE DRUM BEAT
01/09/2012
03/09/1994
03/09/2005
07/09/1963
19/09/1970
07/10/1979
10/10/1998
MMFN’S
prepare
HAUNTED
to be !!
scared forest wa
alk
Saturday and Sunday
October 27 AND 28
Time AND Location
TO BE ANNOUNCED
SO STAY TUNED!!!!
Where were my Chief and Council?
Chief Joanna Bernard:
May
1st & 2nd
Assembly of NB Chiefs – Indian Island
8
RCMP Charles Dunphy – Fredericton
8
F.N.E.I.I. Governance Model Meeting – Fredericton
9
Meeting with Minister of the Department of Natural
Resource – Fredericton
10
APC Executive Committee Meeting – Dartmouth
17 & 18
Assembly of NB Chiefs – St-John
June
6&7
APC All Chiefs Forum – Dartmouth
18
Revenue Sharing Agreement Meeting – Fredericton
18
AAEDIRP – APCFNC Meeting – Fredericton
19
All Chiefs Meeting – Fredericton
19
Board of Directors Meeting – Oromocto
20
First Nation Tax Commission – Fredericton
26 & 27
UNBI – Fredericton
27
JEDI - Tobique
July
11
APC Audit & Finance Committee – Dartmouth
11
APC Executive Committee Meeting – Dartmouth
17, 18 & 19
Assembly of First Nations 2012 annual general
assembly – Toronto
August 9
Chiefs Meeting - Bathurst
Councillor Diane Pelletier:
June 18
Revenue Sharing Agreement – Fredericton
Councillor Patricia Bernard:
May 7, 8, 9 & 10 Specific Claims Workshop – Ottawa
June
18
Revenue Sharing Agreement – Fredericton
19
Order of New Brunswick – Fredericton
July
23 &24
Specific Claims Submission – Fredericton
25
Sisson Brook Project – Fredericton
August
20, 21, 22 & 23
First Nation Taxation Commission - BC
Gilles Cyr & Line Pelletier
Kenneth McPhee & Elizabeth Stuart
Albert Richard & Judy Martin
Léonard Philibert & Bibianne Gagnon
Peter A. Bennett & Donna Ellis
Craig Ridley & Sandra Cameron
Marco Godbout & Vicki Wallace
14
13/10/1973
18/10/1981
21/10/1967
24/10/2008
25/10/1974
25/10/1997
29/10/2005
NOVEMBER
Georges Pelletier & Simonne Cimon
John Wallace & Jeanne Cyr
Elmer Albert & Joanna Bernard
06/11/1954
18/11/1967
22/11/2006
SEPTEMBER 2012