Elder`s Center Happenings - Kanesatake Health Center

Kentenhkó:wa * November ✰ Iotór:ha * December
Karihwiios
Elder’s Center Happenings
Local News
AHTF Update
3
Making a Legal Will
9
KHRO Update
6
Aronhiatekha Update
10
Mental Health Update
2
Health News
Effective Communication
12
Pain Killer Addiction
13
Sports and Recreation
Horseshoes
Softball
5
5
...And Much More Including
Announcements
Photos: Susan Oke. Another popular luncheon at the Elders Center, with friends from Akwesasne.
by Noreen Cree
Elder’s Coordinator
G
Akwesasne Visitors at a recent elder’s
luncheon.
reetings to all! Fall
is back with all its
wonderful colors.
We can enjoy all that the harvest brings, like vegetables,
which can be canned, and delicious apples too; things that
can be used during the coming winter months.
I would like to take this
opportunity to honor the staff
at the health center for a job
well done. I am very grateful
to all of you. You are an asset
to this community. Keep up
the good work.
On September16th, we
enjoyed our Wednesday lun-
cheon with the elders from
Akwesasne. The two groups
of elders really enjoyed getting together and getting
caught up with the latest
news. They have invited us
to their new Elder’s Center
in Akwesasne and we plan on
going there sometime in the
near future.
We had our Thanksgiving luncheon on October 7th,
with turkey and all the trimmings. No one left the event
hungry.
We at the Elder’s Center count our many blessings.
First of all, we thank God the
Creator for each one of you
because you are all special.
Here at the Elder’s Center we
enjoy our relationships and
spend a lot of time laughing
and telling stories.
We thank Minnie for
all of her work and continued
support. Thank you also to
Sandra and Bridget for all of
their work at the center. We
also thank Sharon for her delicious cooking.
Our Christmas luncheon will be on December
23rd with our usual delicious
food, door prizes, half and
half drawing, and a visit from
Santa.
I pray that you will all
have a Merry Christmas and
the very best for the new
year. Take care.
Mental Health Update
Planting a Seed
by Mary Hannaburg, Mental Health Worker
by Mary Hannaburg, Mental Health Worker
O
n Thursday September 3, 2009 our invited guest
speaker Mr. Mike Santoro presented “Mike’s Story,’’
a documentary of Mike Santoro’s life of living with
a mental illness. Mike presented thirty minute DVD mini-clips
depicting his struggles and successes living with schizophrenia and
manic depression. Mike’s Story tells how awareness, support, and
determination helped him to overcome his major obstacles. It also
depicts Mike coming to terms with what was happening to him. The
acceptance and understanding of how he could adapt his lifestyle
to help himself to the point where he now travels and helps others
who face the same challenges.
One of Mike’s main purposes is to help others who are
struggling to come to terms with their illness and by doing so, he
helps de-stigmatize mental illness and offers support and hope
which was the case on this particular night.
Following the presentation, there was ample opportunity for
reflection and feedback; and by the level of interaction from several
of the participants, it was very obvious that there was a level of
comfort enabling participants to share their own stories as well. A
request for an ongoing open discussion of mental health issues was
made by the participants.
There were expressions of gratitude to both myself and Kelly
Gabriel, Mental Health Support Workers, for our combined efforts
in organizing the event. Participants stated that they were happy
they came and they felt that they had been given a sense of hope and
encouragement, as they felt they could relate to Mike‘s Story. One
participant expressed that Mike’s Story was their story.
Other resource information was made available and a
courtesy participation gift offered to each participant. There is a
DVD of Mike’s Story available for purchase and you may get more
information on how to order the DVD or any other information on
the following website www.mikesstory.com. Should you require
any information related
to this topic or any other
information or you wish
to receive, support for
yourself, family, or loved
o n e s , p l e a s e c o n t a c t
either Mary Hannaburg
or Kelly Gabriel at the
K a n e s a t a k e H e a l t h
Center: 450-479-6000.
2
T
he month
of September thrusted
upon us the fast
pace of the back to
school routine. Summer seems to have
whizzed past with
some of us trying to
tug at its seams to
try and make it stay
a bit longer, without much success. At the onset of this month, I received a call from a community member, Mrs. Kate Oke, who asked
me to visit with her this very day. She sounded enthusiastic as she
explained she had something wonderful she wanted me to see.
Arriving at her home, she brought me to her back porch where
she excitedly displayed a most magnificent, beautiful, flower that
she had taken care of and nurtured from a seed. Mrs. Oke reminded me of the day she received the seed; it was an initiative entitled
National Day of Healing and Reconciliation which is celebrated
every May 26th and this year the promotional items contained seeds,
symbolizing the need to nurture and provide the necessities to foster
growth in relationships and responsibilities. Mrs. Oke stated that she
felt a responsibility to plant and take care of this seed which was
given to her and she did her best to give it what it needed to bloom
and the proof of her success was in this bright, magnificent, hearty
pink flower.
I was so encouraged to receive such positive feedback from an
elder that I felt compelled to share this beautiful story, her beautiful
flower, and the lesson of the planting and nurturing symbolically
the essence of healthy relationships. Her commitment and sense
of responsibility for this single seed was what brought forth such
beauty.
If there are any others who have a similar stories of the seeds
and you wish to share them, please do not hesitate to contact me. I
will be very happy to see what flowered for you, as all the seeds were
different and there was no indication of what you were getting.
As we see the landscape and gardens changing and the gusts of
winds shaking loose the leaves of the trees covering the dark ground,
I think of the beauty that creation displayed over the past summer
months and felt indeed reenergized to embrace the fall and seasonal
changes. I would like to thank Mrs. Kate Oke for her participation.
AHTF Information Update
by Rola Helou
O
ver the past two months, the AHTF project teams have been
working on activities toward meeting two (of many) objectives
of the projects:
1. Conduct an assessment of the gaps in service for Elders
and young families;
2. Inform outside agencies about health programs and services
available in Kanesatake.
You, or someone you know, may have participated in one of the
many focus groups that have taken place around the community. Your
feedback has been invaluable in determining what the community feels
are gaps in health services for Elders and young families. These focus
groups, both on location and online on our AHTF Facebook group, will
continue throughout the projects. The information collected will be
summarized and passed on to the professional teams who will develop
a matrix grid to map out the services provided in Kanesatake and those
available under the province. Rest assured, the information collected is
vital to the process that will improve the continuum of health services
provided to the community. Many thanks to those who participated.
You may also have noticed, over the past couple of months that
the awesome photographer/writer/editor, Susan Oke, has been taking
video footage and photographs of different services and businesses in
Kanesatake. These will be used to inform outside agencies, through
a website, about the health center’s programs and services. This
website (currently under development), will include a section called
community where the community’s assets will be highlighted (thanks to
Karennahawi McComber and the groups that worked together to map
out the assets).
Read Karihwi:ios to obtain updates about the progress of the
projects or join the discussion on Facebook (Kanesatake AHTF
Projects). Please do not hesitate to drop by, call, 450-479-6000, or email, r.helou@kanesatakehealthcenter.ca to find out more about the
projects, or about how you can participate.
The deadline for the January/February
issue of Karihwiios is:
Friday, December 18, 2009
Rules for the Gym and Activities
1. Good sportsmanship is expected at all times.
2. No smoking during activities.
3. No spitting , no loitering, no skateboarding, no garbage left in the gym.
4. Hanging on the basketball rim is prohibited.
5. No profanity or vulgar language.
6. Fighting or unruly conduct will not be tolerated. Fighting during activities will be grounds for suspension.
7. The cost of repairs from any damage will be the sole responsibility of the group using the facility at the time.
8. Gym will be kept open only for a minimum of ten people.
9. Respect each other’s time schedule, all the monitors and community property.
10. No drugs or alcohol tolerated
If you have any complaints about any activity, call Glenda
Smith at the Mohawk Council at 450- 479-8373.
Monday
Co-ed Ball Hockey at Ratihente Gym
Ages 6 - 11
6:00 - 7:15
Supervisor: Brandon Etienne, Kevin Nelson
Ages 16 +
7:30 - 9:30
Supervisor: Brandon Etienne
Tuesday
Girl Club recreational activity
Ages 12 - 18 Check Recreation Facebook page for locations.
Supervisor: Glenda Smith
Co-ed Volleyball at Ratihente Gym
Ages 14 + 7:00 - 9:30
Supervisor: Brandon Etienne
Wednesday
Fun Night for Kids’ at Ratihente Gym
Ages 7 -12 6:30 - 7:30
Supervisors: Kevin Nelson, Bobby White
Thursday
Youth Floor Hockey at Ratihente Gym
Ages 12 - 17 6: 30 - 8:00
Supervisor: Brandon Etienne
For any ladies and gentlemen who wish to workout, There
are exercise classes on Monday and Wednesday
downstairs at the Education Center.
3
Way to go
Kanehsatà:ke!
by Kanerahtenhá:wi Hilda Nicholas
K
anienké:ha classes have started. Mary McDonald and I are
very pleased at the turn out. There are over 40 people that
have expressed an interest in joining the classes. On average,
there are about 24 people attending each session. Classes are
held twice a week on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings at the
Language and Culture Center, however, we are moving the classes
to Rotiwennakehte and Aronhiatekha School, in the Pines (407 StMichel), to accommodate more people comfortably. Now is the
time to join in before we get too advanced.
Thanks to Mary for making the classes so interesting and fun.
Mary is volunteering to do this and we appreciate her very much.
Keep on going Kanehsatá:ke. Niá:wen for your participation.
Mini-Mohawk Lesson
Translation courtesy of
Tsi Ronterihwanónhnha Ne Kanienkéha Resource Center
4
Tehonttsihkwá:'eks
Hockey
Tehata'aranónhnha
Goalie
Taionto'tsinehtsherón:ten
Skating
Kà'nhia
Hockey Stick
Kà’nhia wa’thó:ri’se’
His hockey stick is broken
Hibou’s Softball Tournament
by Brandon “Hibou” Etienne
H
ibou’s Annual Softball Tournament is the last chance most people get to
play ball for the rest of the year. So most come out and give it their all
and this year was no different. The tournament’s third installment was held on
September 26th on what turned out to be a beautiful day. Four teams participated with the “Penatrators” trying to win their third consecutive tourney, but
it was not to be, as they made an early exit. The “Flash” also couldn’t make the
final. This left the “Hooters” facing “Mike’s Gang” for the championship. The
game would turn out to be a no-brainer, as Mike’s Gang won in a convincing
fashion.
I would like to thank Kimberly Simon for keeping the players hydrated
and fed with her fundraiser BBQ. And also thanks to the chef, Valerie Tewisha,
as well as, anyone who umpired, kept score, or just did anything to help out
during the day. See you all next year.
Recreation Update
Horseshoe Tournament
by Glenda Smith
Despite the fact that we were not able to have the horseshoe
tournament during the rainy summer, it was held on Saturday,
September 12, 2009, in the Pines. We had a yummy corn
roast for the participants and everyone had a great time. The
participants were:
Smokey Richard and Debbie Rennie
Eddy Gabriel and Kyle Canatonquin
Andrew Simon and Kristin Cree
Babs Cree and Poe Albany
Tiohenta McComber and Zack Toohey
Teki Albany and Carl Dunn: Runners-up
And the winners were....Julia Albany and Glenda Smith
I would like to wish everyone
happy holidays and thank you
for your suppport.
Skennen and Ohserahse!!!
Getting a jump on the Holiday rush, why
not pre-order your christmas items for
your holiday menu.
meat pies, chicken pot pies,
$8.00 each
fruit pies and lemon meringue pies,
$6.00 each
Please make orders by
December 15th by calling
450-479-9990
5
KHRO Update
by Myrna Gabriel,
Employment Counsellor
T
he last few months have left KHRO
extremely busy, which is a good
thing. This means people have
been on employment projects or they’ve
been in school or will be starting school.
We’ve been busy working on developing a
variety of little projects as well. To begin
this update I’ll go back and start from last
spring.
PRTC & Kanesatake
April 2009, I coordinated an information
session along with the Canadian Armed
forces to introduce a three week PreRecruitment Training Course session to
see what one can expect life to be like in
the military, an opportunity like no other!
At the end of the three weeks, there are no
expected commitments, no signing your
life away to a career in the military! Rather,
it is your choice to walk away or if you’d
like you can pursue the possibilities of
career advancement in the military.
One Kanesatake’ro:non successfully
passed the physical, psychological,
and medical requirements before being
accepted into the program. After it was
all said and done, it was smooth sailing
from there. Jeffrey Avery was flown to
BC for three weeks and had an adventure
Simulation of a ship’s room flooding
6
like none other. Life in the wilderness, in
mountainous Esquimalt, British Columbia,
was amazing. Jeff left Kanesatake on
the early morning of April 24, 2009 and
returned home on May 8. 2009. (for more
details read my other article on page 8)
2009 Summer Career
Placement Program
This program allows our students the
opportunity to be employed for a short time
during the summer months.
This year, a total of 18 students
benefited from this program and were
employed for a time period between 6
and 12 weeks, from May to August 2009.
The host organizations consisted of Oka
Park; Mohawk Council of Kanesatake
and the Mohawk Council of Kahnawake;
Kanesatake public works department;
Kanesatake Day care Center; Kanesatake
Education Center; KSCS; the Kanesatake
Social Assistance Program in conjunction
with the Kanesatake Day camp program.
One noteworthy item, is that if you’re
a student-- you need to be 16 before July 1st
AND you need to have a social insurance
number. If you’re a business owner, keep
in mind that KHRO needs your business
to be registered with the Canada Revenue
Agency and your business needs to be
able to do payroll and submit a Record of
Employment at the end of their employee’s
contract. This requirement has prevented
some of our own local entrepreneurs from
benefiting from this program. Soon after
January we will be starting the ball rolling
once again, so students and local registered
businesses, keep your eyes open! We’ll be
advertising by February 2010. Students,
if you can identify new businesses that
you’d like to work with in or out of
Kanesatake, contact me and we can make
arrangements.
Making a Funding
Application
In August as the school season approached,
KHRO saw a lot more applicants come
through the doors; it needs to be mentioned
that in order to be eligible for funding there
is a process one must follow. Before that
though, you should know that KHRO does
not fund private schools UNLESS the
course isn’t offered at a public institute.
First, you need to make an appointment
with the employment counsellor. You will
be given an application form for funding
and you’ll need to plan your goals and
develop an action plan.
Your information will be compiled
and documented; then given to our finance
coordinator who will verify if the funds
are available or if they could be available
in the future (next few months, or next
fiscal year). That documented information
is then presented at a team meeting where
it is discussed and funding is agreed to or
refused.
If you are approved for funding, you
will be called in to discuss the next step,
which involves your funding contract;
details of what you’d be eligible to receive
in terms of funding i.e.; travel, childcare,
allowance, tuition; etc.
You would be required to submit
an attendance sheet once a month to me,
Martha or Tina, that attendance sheet is
then given to Tina to process for payment.
Some things to consider: as an
employment counsellor, if you come in and
tell me you want to become a carpenter,
but you’re afraid of using power tools
or getting cut, then your request will be
refused as this risk is a part of your career
choice. If you want to become a linesman
but you’re afraid of heights, your request
will also be refused, as climbing is also an
continued on next page
continued from page 6
important component of the course. Your
request for funding has to be realistic. You
need to be sure that what you want to pursue
is attainable and that it can actually lead to
you getting a job. If you aren’t willing to
put in the effort to look for work after your
training is done, you risk losing experience
on the job and you risk losing a chance at
continued employment. It’s a collaborative
effort; KHRO can help you do so much.
We are there to help you start the process,
but we can’t complete the training for you.
I am willing to help you find an employer
willing to hire you, but you will need to do
your part as well.
Massage Therapy
Kanesatake has two new certified Massage
Therapists! Tanya Denis and Julie Ann
David have worked extremely hard to get
where they are today. KHRO funded both
ladies in a variety of massage techniques,
Julie is furthering her studies to enhance
her skills to develop new methods of the
trade. Julie has started an independent
home based business where she’ll welcome
you into her private home studio or she will
go to your place (home or work), to offer a
variety of massage techniques. To schedule
an appointment with Julie Ann please call
438-884-8415
Tanya, also a leading lady, recently
bravely entered the entrepreneur forum and
started her own business opening a massage
studio, Ononhkwa Therapy. To schedule an
appointment with Tanya please call 514821-9804. We are proud of both ladies in
their new realm of experiences to come.
Good luck to you both!
Mocassin Jo Coffee and Tea
KHRO also recently provided assistance to
our very own coffee roaster owners Walter
& Lise David. They not only offer coffee
but a variety of herbal teas have also been
added to their list of products! KHRO
is very proud of the amount of work and
dedication this dynamic duo have put
into their growing business. Moccasin
Jo is expanding their roasting shop to
accommodate a seating area where you can
go and enjoy your brew on their soon to be,
terrasse or enjoy it from a comfortable spot
inside. For more brewing information or
for store hours, call Walter or Lise at 450479-8415. They will be happy to serve your
needs!
Public Works
November 6th will be the last day the public
works department will have the assistance
of Mark and Jimmy, as their contract will
be coming to an end. Mark and Jimmy were
hired on at the beginning Center Road’s
paving. Their purpose was to help widen
the roads by cutting the trees and shrubs in
the ditches and they also helped to control
traffic where paving was happening. The
Kanesatake Human Resources Office would
like to thank Chiefs Michelle Lamouche
and Marie Chéné for their commitment to
this project, and to Nicholas David and Roy
Rennie for taking the guys on and helping
to do an outstanding job on Center road.
The clearing that was done made such a
difference in terms of greater visibility and
it really does look terrific. Good job you
guys!
Future Courses
At this time, we are looking at bringing
courses to Kanesatake, we have the need,
we have the space, and we just need the
courses and the funding to make it all
happen. Some specific courses that are
being considered will include:
• Carpentry
• Masonry
• Plumbing
• Construction Health and safety
• Secretarial studies
• Hotel front desk reception
• Heavy machinery operators course
• Part time academic upgrading
As mentioned these avenues are being
explored; specifics still need to be
considered, like if we have a masonry
course we’d need to ensure that proper
ventilation systems exist and are fully
operational; if we have a carpentry course,
we need the space to be large enough to
house the lumber and equipment securely,
etc. and most importantly, we need to
consider the financial costs.
Job Fair
Through collaborative efforts with the
Kanesatake Education Center and the
Kanesatake Social Assistance program we
are planning a job/career/educational fair
in April 2010. Our contact organizations;
employers; agencies and schools will be
invited to attend our fair and employers
will be on hand to offer you information
and to accept your resume for employment
opportunities. More information will be
made available as we get closer to the
date.
KHRO Funding
At present, KHRO is experiencing a higher
than normal volume of funding requests.
Since we cannot fund every one of them,
any and all new requests that we’ve
received and processed have had to be put
on hold until negotiations with Emploi
Quebec can take place. Emploi Quebec has
been contacted and further developments
that transpire will be forthcoming.
Summary
KHRO has three employees, (plus one)
to help serve your needs daily. Please
remember to call KHRO before coming in
to see one of us. Till next time!
Onen tanon Skennen.
7
An Army Life For Jeffrey Avery
by Myrna Gabriel, KHRO Employment Counsellor
O
ctober 8, 2009 I had the honour and privilege of witnessing
Jeffrey Avery graduate from his 13 week basic military
qualification course and be ranked as a Private in the
Canadian Army.
Jeff first became interested in signing up to pursue a career
with the military shortly after he participated in the 3-week prerecruitment training course that we sponsored in collaboration with
the Canadian Armed Forces last spring.
The idea of bringing this three week training program to
Kanesatake was a result of an information session we attended last
year in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Pat Gelinas and I were invited by
the Navy to attend an information week where we experienced life
in their training facilities on base and we also participated in their
educational activities and life on board the ship HMCS St-John.
The careers that can be offered and the amount of training and
trades that one can learn is limitless.
I was introduced to a variety of programs the Canadian Armed
Forces has geared for Native communities; programs like the Big
Bear project; the Raven project; the PRTC 3-week training course
and more commonly known in Ontario and out west, the Bold Eagle
project. Knowing there were some youth in Kanesatake unsure of
what they wanted to do in life, which direction to take, I weighed
the options to bring this program home and promote it.
I started advertising for the three week training program
(PRTC) and retained Jeffrey Avery as a candidate, Jeffrey was
eager to try it out. He understood it was a three week program
in B.C. where it was all about seeing what life was like in the
8
military. Each morning he did the 5:00 am wake up call, geared
up in his military issued fatigues and equipment, shined his boots,
cleaned his weapon, made his bed, did sit-ups, showered, and ran
5-kilometers before breakfast. During class time, he learned about
nuclear, chemical, and biological warfare, simulated scenarios,
and learnt to safely operate a C7 rifle (similar to an M16), in their
shooting range
Upon completion, Jeff was given a career and aptitude
assessment test to determine what his interests were and what
direction he might like to pursue in life. He was given the option to
go back and sign up for a career in the military or simply to walk
away. Already knowing this is what he wanted to do, he decided
that being in the military would give him more options in life: 1.
he’d have a career, 2. he’d get to travel and see places, 3. he’d have
access to on site training facilities where he’d get a college degree,
be able to work, get paid for his work, and still come home when
he’d want to, 4. if he wanted to, he could retire with a full pension
when he turns 46 years old.
He left for St Jean-sur-Richeleau in July and spent 13 weeks
there. Every day saw its challenges; he learned that determination
is a strength one cannot acquire in a day, it’s a work in progress.
Jeff learned that to be loyal to your family means being committed
to yourself and never to give up; you need to persevere through the
hardship and then the reward will follow; he learned that teamwork
really does exist, dedication, loyalty, commitment, all these inner
personal values that he knew he had all along are now being
emphasized for the sake of protecting other people in other places.
Jeffry graduated from his basic military qualification course
(boot camp) on October 8th, 2009. As I sat there watching the
procession, I got goose bumps thinking how ironic it was that one
year prior I was in NS learning about these programs, and was now
witnessing Jeffrey graduate from this program as he starts his life in
a new direction. It was really rewarding. Jeffrey… well “PRIVATE
AVERY,” is also a changed guy, his confidence level sky rocketed,
he’s comfortable where he is, and he really enjoys the routine, the
structure, the weekly pay cheque, the training facilities; he likes
that learning is endless, he’s never bored, there’s always stuff to do.
He’ll work hard to keep the promotions coming and we’ll continue
to support his new adventure. Best Wishes Private Avery!
The Importance of
Making a Will
information taken from Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
submitted by Amanda Simon, Lands and Estates Manager
H
ello everyone, I would like to remind all community members of
Kanehsatake about the importance of making a will. A will is a document
that leaves instructions about what you want done with your personal
possessions and land (your estate) after you die. Dying without a will is called dying
‘intestate.” If you die intestate (without a will), the Indian Act applies and sets out
how your assets will be distributed rather than you or your family deciding. For
more information and for your free copy of a Legal Canadian Will kit please contact
Amanda Simon, Lands and Estates Manager at the Mohawk Council of Kanehsatake.
450-479-8373.
Why make a will?
Making a will ensures that your wishes are carried out and your loved ones are considered. If you are of the age of majority (18 or 19 years of age) you should have a will.
With a will you can...
• Decide who will inherit your personal possessions and land
• Protect your loved ones by making arrangements for their well being
• Name someone to administer (carry out your plans), your estate
• Name someone to look after your dependent children
• Be specific about who should have your personal belongings and
keepsakes
• Make arrangements for your business
• Leave instructions for funeral wishes
• Leave a gift to someone outside the family
A will may...
• Lessen the involvement of departmental officials in your private
affairs
• Avoid delays in settling your estate
• Make the settlement of your estate a more personal matter
• Help to avoid family conflicts by expressing your clear intentions
• Protect any customs or traditions that should be passed on to your loved ones
For your sake and that of those you love, please make a Will. For more information
go to www.inac.gc.ca and click on Programs and Services, then Lands and Trust
Services.
November is...
Diabetes Month
Osteoporosis Month
National Addictions
Awareness Week
November 15 - 21
National Seniors Safety
Week
November 6 - 12
Remembrance Day
November 11
World Diabetes Day
November 14
International Day For the
Elimination of Violence
Against Women
November 25
Buy Nothing Day
November 28
December is...
Lung Association
Christmas Seal Campaign
World AIDS Day
December 1
International Human Rights
Day
December 10
Christmas Day
December 25
9
Rotiwennakéhte/Aronhiatékha School News
407 St-Michel, Kanesatake, Quebec, J0N 1E0, Tel: (450) 479-9969, Fax (450) 479-8707
E-mail: aronhiatekhaschool@hotmail.com
by Angela Gabriel
She:kon Community of Kanesatake. The
entire staff is ready to embrace the new
school year with energy and spirit.
The Move
We’re glad to announce that our move/
merge this past summer went smoother
than we thought it would and mostly
everything arrived to its new home. The
new school has a calm peaceful feel to it.
Our new space is a tad tight but eventually
we managed to stuff it all in!
The teachers had a huge job of setting
up their classrooms and there were so many
little things to figure out. We needed to
settle on which doors the kids would use to
go out at lunch & recess. We had to decide
where to line up and how many cafeteria
tables to take out. Never mind all the other
usual stuff we needed to do to be ready in
time. We’re happy to announce that we’re
home now and we won’t be going anywhere
for a long time!
Playground
We have had some difficulty during rainy
day recess & lunch hour keeping our kids
busy. The playground out back tends to get
very wet and we’ve had to use the front
simply to keep the students dry. Be patient
if you arrive and the front gates are closed.
We close them for the safety of the students
when it is too wet out back to play.
The plan to dismantle and bring over
some of our old playground equipment
simply didn’t happen. The students have
written letters and we have been promised
that it will get done.
There are a few pieces of playground
equipment out back. The sawdust was
getting old and all it took was a phone call
and a load of fresh wood chips was dropped
10
off. Thank you to Neil Gabriel for his kind
donation.
Community Helpers
Niawenhkowa as well to Nicholas David
and David Gabriel for taking care of our
bee hive problem. It was a pleasure to
watch them in action with their white suits
and nerves of steel.
A small swing set was donated to the
school by the Tsi Rotswahtahkwa Daycare
quite a while back but it stood on the side
for quite a while waiting for installation.
We are happy to announce that the swing
set has now been installed and the younger
students are enjoying it daily. Thank you
Mark Tolley, Nicholas David and Jimmy
Canatonquin for their collaborative efforts.
Roy Rennie was also kind enough to give up
some of his time to improve our grounds by
removing a stump that was in the middle of
our delivery door driveway. Niawenhkowa
to you all for your help.
We were fortunate to have had some
apples brought to us from our local orchard.
Thank you Marc Gareau & Larry Etienne
for that special delivery. Since then we’ve
also had two parents who have taken the
time to pick and bring us more apples. The
students have really enjoyed them. Thank
you Jennie & Jackie.
Fire /Safety Prevention
To date we’ve established evacuation plans
and have had a fire drill. The students and
staff did very well evacuating the premises
in record time.
Leadership
The grade 5 & 6 students have all been
assigned their leadership jobs and they
rotate learning how to work as a team.
Fundraising.05
We’ve already had our first fundraiser and
have raised just over $990.00. The students
and staff all sold antibacterial soap and did
so very successfully. We’ll be using the
profit for the next field trip.
Health Measures
We as every other school have been very
vigilant concerning the H1N1 virus. The
teachers make sure the students all wash
their hands several times a day. We’ve sent
out pertinent information to parents on what
to look out for and how to avoid getting
the virus. Our janitor has been giving the
school special attention on door knobs and
places that undergo regular handling and
touching. We have been working closely
with the Health Center and also have put
posters up reminding students about proper
hand washing techniques.
The need for Plastic Bags
One problem we’ve encountered with
Going Green is the fact that we don’t have
any more plastic bags! If you happen to
have an accumulation of plastic bags please
think of recycling them by donating them
to the school. We tend to need bags all the
time at school.
Electronics/Electrics/Mechanics
One last person to thank for all his hard
work this past summer and even still
nowadays is our favorite and one and only
computer tech. It seems that his job is never
done. Not only has he had his hands full in
setting up our new computer lab, he has also
helped us in sooooo many other areas. We
want him to know that we really appreciate
all of his hard work. Mr. Smokey Richard
is our hero! Niawenhkowa so very much
for all of your expertise, honesty and most
of all your patience! It’s always a pleasure
to see you. Keep smiling!
Expecting a baby
in January or February?
These classes are for you!!
Childbirth Classes for Mom and Coach
6 classes—Fridays 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm
November 13 – December 18
Topics:
Creating your own birth plan
Changes of pregnancy in last trimester/Pre-labour signs
Labour and delivery stages and coaching toolkit
Comfort measures, relaxation and breathing techniques, massage
Medical interventions/Pain medication/Cesarean birth
Postpartum/Newborns/Breastfeeding/Becoming a parent
“Informative” “Interactive” “Hands-on”
If you are interested please call: Karen MacInnes, Community Health Nurse
At the Kanesatake Health Center 450-479-6000
Effective Communication: Resolving Conflict With
Emotional Integrity
(Adapted from a Joshua Harris book ) By Danielle Poirier
Conflict is a normal part of life. The absence of conflict doesn’t
equal good communication. It is very normal to not agree on
everything. Thus conflict is not necessarily a bad thing, rather it
can be an opportunity to know and understand each other better.
Approaching conflict with a positive attitude with good intentions
to resolve it will be beneficial for all involved. Also all relationships
worth keeping are eventually tested by conflict. Those that are real
will stand the test of conflict every time.
Here are some tips on how to resolve conflict
in a positive manner:
Always seek to understand people’s intentions even when they don’t
express themselves as you would prefer. Also examine your own
motives to ensure you are sincere and striving to resolve, build up,
edify, encourage and benefit others. Of course it is very important
to know that you are responsible only for your part. There are times
when people are neither ready nor willing to resolve things with
you and when this happens you need to back away graciously and
be willing to let go. This is very difficult for those of us who always
want to fix things as quickly as possible. However, we must accept
that we cannot always do so. Sometimes we need to stay away from
people who are unwilling to resolve things or play fair. At times we
cannot avoid people but need to keep a civil attitude and remain
open to resolving things if they are open to it later on.
1: When expressing your take on the argument or conflicting
issues, learn to express your feelings honestly while avoiding
accusations and attacks on the other person. Attack the problem, never the person.
2: Choose words and a tone of voice which demonstrate kindness and gentleness. Keep your communication free from offensive, harsh and judgmental words.
3: Stay away from exaggerating or distorting the actual point
when expressing your view. Also make sure you avoid words
like never and always.
4: Stick to specific examples. Stay away from generalities
and if need be prepare what you’re going to say first, even if
12
you need to write things out beforehand. Also try to address
only one issue at a time. Do not overload the other with a
whole list of past grievances. Too much can be discouraging
and even downright hurtful.
5: Commit yourself to seeking solutions. Don’t focus on
venting your anger or frustrations. Remember your goal in
all of this is to resolve things and restore relationships.
6: Seek to understand. Listen to what the other person is saying, feeling and needing without interrupting. Make a conscious effort to understand their underlying concerns.
7: Refuse to give in to anger, bitterness, argument, or withdrawal. Know that all of these feelings may arise strongly
but it shows wisdom and self-control when you are able to
avoid giving in to these feelings. Feelings should always be
subjected to wisdom.
See James 1; 19 “Let every man be quick to listen, slow to speak,
and slow to anger………….”
See Proverbs10:11 “The mouth of the righteous is a well of life,
but violence covers the mouth of the wicked.” Proverbs 11:12, “He
who is devoid of wisdom despises his neighbor, but a man of understanding holds his peace.”
Signs of Prescription
Painkiller Abuse
http://www.opiates.com/prescription-painkillers/prescriptionpainkillers-abuse.html
submitted by Leo Parent, NNADAP Worker
Kaniatarak'ta Riverside
Elder’s Home
by Wendy Nicholas, Director
T
aking more of a drug than what is recommended can be
considered abuse, along with taking it more frequently than
what is prescribed. Tampering with the drug in any way can
also constitute abuse. This includes breaking, chewing or otherwise
altering the pills so they can be absorbed quicker into the body. Some
users may also abuse prescription painkillers by crushing and snorting
them. Mixing a crushed tablet with water in order to inject it is also
abusive behavior. Strong warnings accompany every prescription and
detail risks of abuse, misuse, overdose, interactions and addiction. All
labels on prescription medication should be followed closely.
Users who take more medication than what’s recommended may run
out before it can be refilled. This may cause some to resort to typical
“drug-seeking” behaviors such as falsifying a prescription or shopping
around for different doctors to obtain multiple supplies. Other crimes
associated with drug abuse and addiction includes: theft, shoplifting
and other personal and property crimes. Abuse can include a broad
scope of risky behaviors that propel users to seek out a “high.” As with
other types of drugs, prescription painkillers can cause psychological
and physical addiction.
If you believe that you may be dealing with prescription painkiller
abuse, there are people who are willing to help you in your journey to
recovery.
The Kaniatark’ta Riverside Elders Home offers a variety of
care: Light Care, for semi-autonomous residents who require
some help or supervision with daily activities; Medium
Care for residents requiring help with most daily activities;
Respite Care for families requiring a rest period while caring
for a family member who is ill; and Convalescence and
Palliative Comfort Care. Additionally the home provides:
• 24-hour maintenance and supervision
• Professional nursing services
• Daily living assistance for feeding, personal hygiene, and clothing needs
• Nutritionally sound and well-balanced meals with provision for special diets
• Supervision of medication
• Laundry services (excluding dry cleaning)
• On-call in-house hairdresser (cost absorbed by resident)
• On-call in-house foot care services (cost absorbed by resident)
Eligibility: The home is abailable for autonomous and semiautonomous adults who first meet the CTMSP Eligibility
Criteria (completed by both the professional medical staff
and Social Services). A client is eligible if the evaluation
reveals that between 0 to 2.5 hours of care are needed daily.
For more information please contact Wendy Nicholas,
Director of Kaniatarak’ta Riverside Elder’s Home
(450) 479 - 1115
13
Announcements
John Canatonquin
December 6
Happy Birthday! Here’s wishing one great
guy, one great birthday! All the best for your
birthday John!
Education March & Rally Recognition
My sincerest apologies for forgetting the following individuals and service on my list in the
previous Kanesatake Karihwiios issue.
Valerie Gabriel
December 28
Happy birthday to my beautiful cousin. Wishing
you a day as great as you are; a day filled with
sunshine and happiness, because that’s what
you bring to me when I see you!
Myrna
Cheers!
Myrna, Nick, Iehente, & Raiden
Nia:wen for your generocity and
understanding.
Donivan Diabo
December 20
Happy 7th birthday buddy!
From your fellow superhero, Raiden
Ellen Filippelli
John Diabo
Gordon Oke
Marie Chene
Michelle Lamouche
Surete Quebec
From Barbara Simon
Caira Nicholas
November 16
Happy birthday Caira good luck being a teenager and have good presents!!! I love you soo
sooo much.
Mathieu xoxoxo
On behalf of the Kanesatake Human
Resources Office, we would like to take a
moment to say from all of us here, to all of
you out there, have a safe and happy holiday
season. To our KHRO students and job
creation participants, keep up the good work,
your commitment to your future will enhance
the productivity of our skilled work force. To
everyone, most importantly, please help keep
our community safe, tohsa shenikra tanon
satori (Don’t drink and drive). Please arrive
alive.
Local Student Fundraises $1K
For Euro Trip
S
amantha Pepin, a grade eleven student from LTM high school, has been busy fundraising
for her class trip to Italy and Greece by selling Club 200 tickets over two and a half
months. The draw took place on Wednesday, September 30th at the band office and Grand
Chief Sohenrise Nicholas, with Mary Jane Vincent acting as a witness, drew the winning
ticket. Congratulations to Justin Nelson (photo on the left), winner of $1000. The other half
of the proceeds will go towards Samantha’s trip.
Appreciation for a Job Well Done
E
veryone knows our health center nurses do a great job with their clients, but they don’t
always get recognized for their fine work. So, nurse Karen MacInnes was more than a little
surprised when one of her clients had this beautiful bouquet of flowers delivered to the office for
her a few weeks back. Needless to say, although it wasn’t necessary or expected, she was very
happy to receive them. And we were happy for her.
14
Health Center Birthdays
Jocelyn "Kitty" Bonspille
November 4
Connie Nicholas
November 15
Noreen Cree
November 16
In Loving Memory of
Harriet Ann Etienne Spittel
ákat
On the day you died, we were supposed to
celebrate your 75th birthday. The Lord must
have known how tired you were, and took you
home. I thought I saw white wings near the
amazing orange and red sunset when you left.
The elders say you travelled full circle, leaving
us on your birthday. It’s been one year since
you left. We miss you dearly and we always
will remember the way things were. You were
a great mother and grandmother.
Shirrillean Nelson
December 25
Ronnie Gabriel
December 25
BUBBA! Words can’t express how proud we
are of you. You have been our inspiration.
You have guided us to be who we are today
and without your strength, confidence, and
honesty, we may not have turned out to be as
awesome as we all are! Nia:wen for being you,
Bubba, we really are blessed and privileged.
David Belisle
December 30
Happy birthday to everyone!
Smokey Richard
Thank You
For the past five years there has been a very
special person who committed his time and
dedication in helping the children in our community. Teaching the game skills and organiational skills in Floor hockey. The Kanesatake Recreation Department wishes to thank
Smokey Richard for “ being there” and taking
the time for the kids in our community. I appericate your help very much Smokey and all
the kids will miss you.
We love you Mom, Grandma
Karen, Colton, Amber, Caitlyn
Birthday Greetings to the
following people:
My eldest brother, Stanley Cree
November 13
My brother, Sidney Cree
November 2
Happy Birthday and God bless you to:
My niece, Leilani Garcia
November 15
Sidney Cree
November 2
My sister, Noreen Cree
November 15
Caira Nicholas
November 16
Happy 13th birthday, Caira. We hope you
have a wonderful birthday as you turn 13, you
are growing into a fine young lady!
Love, Mama, Baba, Jansen and Kailey xxx
(ps. behave or I will take your phone away till
you are 14. Baba!!!)
My niece, Barbara Joy Simon
November 15
My brother, Rodger Cree
November 21
My friend, Melyna
November 20
My new friend, Sandra Sauve
November 13
Love and prayers, Mavis Etienne
Stanley Cree
November 13
Sandra Sauve
November 13
Barbara Simon
November 15
Mavis Etienne
November 20
Rodger Cree
November 21
Love, Noreen Cree
15
Kanehsatà:ke Karihwi:ios
Editing, proofreading, layout, photography, writing:
Susan Oke.
Additional Proofreading: Diane Harding, Rola Helou
Contributors For November/December are:
If you have questions or comments regarding
Karihwiios, please direct them to the editor:
karihwiios@hotmail.com
Emergency Phone Numbers
Fire and Ambulance (Emergency): 911
Police (Emergency): 310-4141 by cell: *4141
Police (SQ office.): 450-479-1313
Mary Jane Hannaburg Danielle Poirier
Brandon Etienne Rola Helou
Noreen Cree
Amanda Simon Leo Parent
Glenda Smith
Angela Gabriel
Myrna Gabriel
Wendy Nicholas
Hilda Nicholas
Recycling Dates :
November: 6, 20 December: 4, 18
Garbage Pick-up:
November: 10, 24 December: 8, 22