Year in Review - Siksika Nation

SIKSIKA NATION
SIKSIKA
NATION
CHIEF &
COUNCIL
Volume 1, Issue 2, Sept. 2010
2009-10
Year in Review
Chief & Council Year in Review
GOVERNMENT OF SIKSIKA NATION
Office of the Chief
Siksika Nation Chief
Leroy Paul Wolf Collar
Oki Siksika Nation Members:
I am writing once again to bring you up to date on our Chief and Council progress report in accordance to our three
Year Business and Operations Plans.
I want to remind Siksika Nation members that we as Chief and Council have continued our journey down through
'Nation Building' as part of our efforts to improve the Siksika Nation's Quality of Life. Nation Building is about developing
and designing Siksika's own Constitution and a Governance model that truly represents Siksika Nation's Way of Life.
If you recall, I pulled Council from the Portfolio System so that we, as the elected leadership, could focus on our goals
and strategies which we identified in our strategic plans in December 2007. And as you know we appointed members of
the Grassroots as representatives of the Boards, Committees, Commissions and Tribunals to every department under the
auspices of the Siksika Nation government.
CHANGES
Let me say first of all that it has been quite a challenging term of office, one where I've had the privilege of witnessing
many of the changes that have occurred within the last 2 and a half years. However, these changes did not come so easily for some; animosity and resistance played a role among those affected by it, while others welcomed and embraced the
changes for the simple fact that change is inevitable.
For example:
Abolishment of the Tribal Manager's position
Chief and Council eliminated this position because it was an old school management position created by Indian
Affairs, similar to the Indian Agent concept where one person overlooked everyone and everything.
It no longer served its purpose and was simply an unnecessary bureaucracy between managers, boards, commit
tees, commissions and tribunals.
We are a government and should function as a government and not as one big tribal administration that has one
person overseeing 15 legal entities.
Most government departments are decentralized and have separate legal entities with autonomy and are governed
by either appointed or elected Boards, Committees, Commissions and Tribunals and these entities have business
and operations plans, including bylaws that give the legal authorities to govern.
The Tribal Manager concept will be replaced by the legal entities own CEO's, General Managers, Executive
Directors, and Presidents etc...
An example of this process is the Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park (BCHP) where the Board of Directors have their own
General Manager who oversees the mandate of BCHP. The General Manager reports to the BCHP Board of Directors and
then the Board of Directors report to Chief and Council through a Shareholders meeting. The Board of Directors are
responsible for updating Siksika Nation members on the status of BCHP.
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Chief & Council Year in Review
RESTORING FAIRNESS
Siksika Human Resource Department
In order to effectively address the issues relating to favouritism and nepotism, Chief and Council changed the current
structure of the Siksika Human Resource department so that it sits at arm's-length to the leadership.
Its mandate includes a review and evaluation of all acting positions and jobs awarded that did not follow the HR
Policy nor follow a fair recruitment process. In other words, employees were being hired without any formal
approval or use of any HR Policy, which in our minds is unfair competition and/or corrupted hiring practices.
We have many Siksika Nation members who are well qualified for many of these positions yet, they never get the
chance to apply because the system did not provide a fair and honest process.
The Council Executive Committee in partnership with the Executive Manager and the Senior Manger of the Human
Resource department are currently reviewing positions that were not posted for competition and at some point will
recommend to Chief and Council to direct the affected board, committee, commission and tribunal to post position
to ensure fair competition will be exercised.
BEST PRACTICES
Siksika Council Executive Committee's Program Review and Evaluation
The Council Executive Committee is working on completing the Terms of Reference aimed at facilitating a
comprehensive Program Evaluation. In other words, Council will appoint a team who will have the mandate to
evaluate every department under the auspices of the Siksika Nation government.
This team will not only evaluate but make recommendations to Chief and Council aimed at improving these
service areas.
Incorporating "Best Practices" that aims at improving programs and services for the benefit of Siksika
Nation members.
Many of the programs and services we provide to Siksika Nation members are in need of major changes because
they no longer focus on improving Siksika members "Quality of Life."
Many of these programs have never been evaluated to determine whether they affectively serve their mandate.
People often complain that favouritism plays a role in who receives the benefits of these programs and services.
BUILDING BETTER RELATIONSHIPS
Chief and Chair Committee
Every month I have the privilege of meeting with the board, committee, commission and tribunal chairs who take
turns presenting their service area Business and Operations plans. This is done to give the chairs an orientation
of what the mandate is in every department under the auspices of the Siksika Nation government.
At these meetings the chairs have an opportunity to raise issues and concerns and provide recommendations to
each other relating to best practices.
The relationship between the Chief (me) and the chairs have improved because we are getting a better under
standing of each department's mandate and my role as Chief of Siksika Nation.
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Chief & Council Year in Review
ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARANCY
Chief and Council Quarterly Reports
As you know, we have been reporting on a quarterly basis to the membership through the Boards, Committees,
Commissions and Tribunals who are representatives of the Siksika Nation grassroots communities. Every three months
we invite all boards, committees, commission and tribunals and we provide them with an update on our core goals and
strategies.
We have also invited Siksika Nation employees once per year to update them on our core goals and strategies.
At the end of each reporting period we conduct an evaluation to determine where we stand with the people; our evaluations show that we have approximately 70% of the people supporting our goals and strategies while the balance either
didn't understand us or simply didn't fill out the evaluation forms.
BUILDING LEADERSHIP CAPACITY
Council's Professional Development
Prior to being elected as Chief of Siksika Nation, I completed the Banff Centre's, Certificate of First Nations
Leadership, Governance and Management Excellence which provides good leadership and management tools to effectively implement leadership and development. So with that, I decided to send Council to do the same by completing all the
required courses so that they too could enhance their leadership skills to effectively lead, manage and develop goals and
strategies aimed at improving Siksika's quality of life. So far four members of Council have graduated while the rest of them
have one or two more courses to go.
Let me say that I am extremely proud of my Council because they not only work hard but also the fact that we as
Siksika Nation Chief and Council will be the first elected leadership to graduate from an accredited institution within
Canada.
INVESTING IN OUR YOUTH
Summer Student Employment Program
Since the inception of our elected leadership in 2007, we made a commitment to guarantee every student summer
employment providing that they meet the following criteria:
They are 15 years of age
They are in school full-time
They have their own social insurance number
They are a member of Siksika Nation
One of their parent's is a registered member of Siksika Nation
Our student employment participant rate has grown from 190 students in 2007/2008 (2 Years Ago) to 220 students in
2008/2009 (last year) and then 320 students in 2009/2010.
I'm very pleased to see the growth in our student participation because education is the absolute key to everyone's
success. So with the participation rate increases, it tells me that we can expect more Siksika Nation members completing
their education in the near future. It also gives me confidence knowing that these young people today will one day be leading our government in all aspects, including representing Siksika Nation at the political level.
PRESERVING OUR CULTURE
Siksika Nation Elder's Profile
This project involves the developing of a "Siksika Nation Elder's Profile." This project entails interviewing Siksika
Nation's Elders and collecting information pertaining to their background and history of Siksika Nation. When all this information is collected, we want to have it published into a book for our own history and collection. I understand that we have
done similar initiatives in the past where we interviewed our elder's. However, we have never really taken it to the next
level where we can have our elder's profiles published and used as a teaching tool in our schools and other institutions
that are interested in our culture and language.
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Chief & Council Year in Review
Siksika Nation Name Registry
The Siksika Membership department is currently establishing a Siksika Nation Name Registry. This project provides
Siksika Nation a place where we can register our Blackfoot names. It is very important that we have a place where we can
record our names similar to the Membership Registry Department.
Our Blackfoot names have more meaning to our identities than the European names given to us at birth. If you have
a Blackfoot name then you should contact the Membership Department and have your name recorded, and if you don't
have a Blackfoot name then talk to an elder who can give you advice on how to get a Blackfoot name.
REDRESS
Siksika Nation's Independent Appeal Process
The Membership Council Team has completed the Independent Appeals Process and is implementing the next stages
of setting up office at Siksika Nation and most likely the office will be operating out of the Siksika Business Centre.
The Independent Appeals Process aims at investigating complaints relating to matters that may impact a Siksika
Nation member's rights such as unfair 'Housing selection' or unfair 'Recruitment of Employees' or 'Wrongful
Dismissal' etc .
The Independent Appeals Process is similar to the Office of Ombudsman where they investigate complaints
towards any government funded programs and services.
Example: issues relating to nepotism and favouritism are a common complaint where our Siksika Nation
members complain about management giving priorities and jobs to family and close friends, who would
not have been selected if a fair process was followed.
CONSULTATION - EXERCISING TRUE DEMOCRACY
Bassano Dam Settlement - Referendum
As you are aware the Bassano Dam vote took place on June 29-30, 2010 both on and off Siksika Nation. I am very
proud to say that we made history on this particular referendum for two reasons:
1. We had one of the highest voter turnouts in the history of voting with a total of 2800 people casting their
ballots on the Bassano Dam referendum, and;
2. Siksika Nation exercised a true democratic process where there wasn't any political interference that may
potentially influence the decision of voters to vote either yes or no on the Bassano Dam referendum. Chief
and Council stayed impartial to the community consultation, which basically meant that the consultation
leading to a referendum was strictly between the Claims Commission and the Siksika Nation membership.
This is the way all community consultation should be facilitated with everything that requires a referendum
because it's very important we keep politics out of issues needing Nation members' approval.
REGIONAL RELATIONSHIPS
Treaty 7 Management Corporation
I want to remind Siksika Nation members that we as Siksika Nation Chief and Council made a decision to pull out of
the Treaty 7 Management Corporation and Treaty 7 Chiefs Association for 3 reasons:
1. My continuous requests and recommendations to facilitate a true Treaty 7 Chiefs Master Plan went on deaf ears
by the Treaty 7 Chiefs. We need to develop our own goals and objectives that aim at addressing the real issues
and challenges of the respective tribes amongst the Treaty 7 communities in the areas such as Education, Health,
Water, Environment, Funding based on Equitable Principals etc... Instead, the current programs and services have
continued to dictate the operations of the Treaty 7 Management Corporation, which in my mind really belong to the
respective tribes to administer their own. In other words, the Treaty 7 Management Corporation administers pro
grams and services such as medical transportation, housing funding etc..., when they should been focussing on
developing a political process that aims at treaty and aboriginal rights etc...
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Chief & Council Year in Review
2. My continuous plea to posts all acting positions within the Treaty 7 Management Corporation including those positions
that were appointed to non-Aboriginal people again went on deaf ears. Some may accuse me of being racist towards
the non-Aboriginal people who are currently employed at this organization. Let me say that I have a right to demand
for a fair and honest recruitment process that will determine the selection of the people and the positions they hold
within the organization I'm held accountable for. Not to mention we have many well qualified and educated members
within the Treaty 7 Tribes who are more than capable of carrying out the duties and responsibilities of these positions.
3. As you know the Stoney Nations elected leadership in 2003 made a Statement of Claim where they claimed owner
ship of the lands we currently reside on including those lands within our traditional territories. So as you can
appreciate it is not possible to lead with leaders who have a political deference with respect to our history and theirs,
in particular the lands they claim as their own. I simply refuse to lead and operate under the same organization as they
collectively represent (Treaty 7 Management Corporation)
Blackfoot Confederacy - Siksika, Kainaiwa, Pikanii and Blackfeet Nation
The Council Initiatives Team have worked tirelessly for the last 2 ½ years aimed at establishing a Blackfoot
Confederacy office, which will have a political mandate to offer some level of political advocacy to the Blackfoot people.
They have facilitated many meetings with the elected leadership and the elders from each of the respective Blackfoot
tribes, with the goal of seeking support and approval to establish the Blackfoot Confederacy office.
The support is very high amongst the grassroots within the Blackfoot people while we are still trying to sort out the
direction and support from each political leadership from Kainai and Pikanii. Our vision is to establish unity amongst our
Blackfoot people and to strengthen our positions relating to our Treaty and Aboriginal Rights.
On March 19, 2010, the Blackfoot Confederacy Chiefs met at the Ramada Hotel in Lethbridge, Alberta to discuss the
establishment of a Blackfoot Confederacy Office. The Blackfoot Confederacy Chiefs authorized their respective technicians
to update plans, including the Blackfoot Confederacy Declaration, Protocol Agreement, Resolution Process, administrative
structure and other documents relating to the establishment of a Blackfoot Confederacy office.
The Blackfoot Confederacy will develop an Organizational Structure and facilitate a five Year Business and Operations
Plan that will give the confederacy the mandate to begin addressing the political, social, economic and cultural issues and
concerns of the Blackfoot people.
The Blackfoot Confederacy Chiefs will then meet with Indian and Northern Affairs Canada to give notice of opting out
of the Treaty 7 Management Corporation including securing funding to support the operations of the Blackfoot office.
Assembly of Treaty Chiefs Gatherings (AoTC)
The Assembly of Treaty Chiefs gatherings are held every three months where each Treaty Confederation hosts.
Example; Treaty 7 Tribes through the Treaty 7 Management Corporation hosted the Assembly of Treaty Chiefs (AoTC)
gathering in January 2010. These gatherings offer an opportunity for the Chiefs of Alberta to table and voice their concerns
and challenges relating to issues that affect their community's quality of life including matters that impact our treaty and
aboriginal rights.
I currently lead a team of Chiefs in Alberta that are facilitating a strategy to address Alberta's First Nations issues relating to the Financial Transfer Arrangement (FTA). This strategy focuses on a Treaty Based funding arrangement and a position of Treaty Federalism (Partners with Federal - Provincial Governments) that aims at funding equity. In a nutshell, both
governments (federal and provincial) must understand that we too as First Nations are governments in this country.
Therefore, we all share (First Nations, Federal and Provincial) the jurisdictions and authorities that criss-cross through this
country of ours through Treaty Federalism (Partners in Sovereignty) and we as First Nations must demand for equitable
funding (fair funding) that pays for quality programs and services within our First Nations communities.
Since our term of office started, we have been facilitated community meetings every 3 months and from time-to-time
shared our updates through the Aitsiniki and by now, the appointed committees, boards, commissions and tribunals should
be experts at sharing information pertaining to their respective assignments.
Our extended support to the community includes attending many special events such as the Siksika Nation Fair,
Education Pow Wows, Siksika Nation Awareness Week, World Championship Chicken Dance, World Championship Hand
Games, Hockey Tournaments, Rodeos, Baseball and Basketball tournaments and recognizing our youth for their accomplishments. As the elected leadership we also made a commitment to build a Baseball Diamond Complex and an In-Door
Rodeo Arena for the benefit of our youth. These projects are both under planning stages and will be implemented next
spring - summer
In closing, we have experienced another positive and productive 12 months and we will continue to work hard to
ensure we get the job done. I'm very confident that we will succeed as Siksika Nation people as long as we work in unity
and with teamwork.
Thank you,
Chief Leroy Paul Wolf Collar
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Chief Wolf Collar speaks to national media
Many Guns, Fontaine
Bellegarde supporter
Dental services made available
The Chief and Board Chairpersons
Governance Committee members
Photos of Siksika members in 2009/10
Members of Chief and Council attended the AFN General Assembly to hear updates and listen to candidates
vying for National Chief, while Chief Leroy Wolf Collar voiced his opinion of the national election to media.
Councilor Scotty Many Guns bids outgoing National Chief, Phil Fontaine the best at the general assembly
and Carla Waterchief showed who she and many Alberta tribes were supporting during the national election.
In 2009, Health Senior Manager, Tyler White welcomed the opening of a state of the art, dental/optical suite.
Governance Committee members and the Chairpersons for the various boards take time for group photos.
(Note) Clement Doore should be in the chairperson photo instead of the governance committee photo.
Year in Review
Chief & Council Breakfast 2009
Serving the People
In 2009 Siksika Nation members and visitors were
treated to a hearty pancake breakfast served by
Chief and Council at the Annual Chief & Council
Breakfast, held every August during the Siksika Fair
and Powwow Celebration.
Armond Duck Chief and Frank Turning Robe’s
band performed during the breakfast and the Nation’s
motorcoach was unveiled to the delight of the crowd.
Chief unveils Siksika Coach
Dancing Horse Band
Annual breakfast
Flapjacks Siksika style
Setting the mood
Elvis gets into the swing of things
Welcoming remarks to powwow guests
Chief greeting elders
Powwow time in 2010
The Annual Chief & Council Breakfast has proven to
be a crowd pleaser. So much so even Elvis wanted
to get in on the action at this year’s breakfast.
Grand Entry
Chief Leroy Wolf Collar along with his wife Marsha,
the First Lady of Siksika, and council members were
on hand to greet elders and participants to the very
successful 2010 Siksika Nation Powwow and Fair.
Large turnout for 2010 fair and powwow
Chief & Council
Christmas Powwow
and Give-away
Rather than take competition time away
from dancers for a giveaway during the
2009 Siksika Fair and Powwow,
Siksika Nation Chief and Council
hosted their own powwow.
The Chief and Council Christmas
Powwow and Giveaway was well
attended and guests from far and wide
took part in the festivities.
Nobody at this powwow went home disappointed as each guest went home
with a gift from Chief and Council.
The night was topped off with a mini
competition powwow with dancers walking away with prize money for their
efforts.
Chief Wolf Collar, Bear Chief, Yellowfly, Yellow Old Woman
Many Guns, Running Rabbit, Scalplock-Melting
Tallow, Yellow Old Woman, Running Rabbit
Panther Bone, Big Snake,
Medicine Traveller, Winnipeg
Chief & Council Give-away
Powwow Royalty
Everybody sing
Weasel Child family
Participants at Chief & Council Christmas Powwow & Giveaway
Christmas Season festivities
In 2009, Chief and Council initiated a number
of events and activities during the Christmas
season to promote and encourage people to
get into the Christmas spirit.
To get into the festive season, Frank Turning
Robe Jr. arranged for Siksika musicians to
perform in the administration foyer, play
Christmas songs and showcase their talent.
Chief & Council hosted Christmas dinner
Siksika Christmas carolers
Siksika members spreading Christmas cheer
Chief and Council oversaw the organizing of
a community Christmas dinner held at the
Piiksapi Powwow Arbour . The event was well
attended. Even Santa Claus showed up
St. Nick greets Siksika children
Torch bearers and event organizers
Olympic torch stops at Siksika
The Olympic torch relay made its way through
the Siksika Nation on it way to the 2010 Winter
Olympics in Vancouver.
A loud, rambunctious crowd welcomed the
Olympic torch being carried by Jacey Solway
and Wyatt Calfrobe as it made its way through
this portion of the relay. Megan Big Snake,
who travelled with the torch, was on hand to
assist with the festivities.
Solway leads Siksika riders
Wyatt Calfrobe carries torch
The Na-Soo-Wa Society escorted the procession and Herman Yellow Old Woman and
Ed Calffobe spoke on behalf of Siksika Nation.
Ed Calfrode says prayer
Leaders support achievements and awards during 2009/10
Members of Chief and Council were on hand at many functions throughout 2009-10 to lend
their support and congratulate Siksika Nation members for their many achievements.
Chief Leroy Wolf Collar was the keynote speaker at the 2009 Alberta Aboriginal Role Models
Awards and was on hand to present role model awards to Rev. Margaret Waterchief and
Clement Doore (Read article in this issue for full story).
The Siksika Midget Hockey Team was the 2009/2010, Tier 4 League Champions, in the
Central Alberta Hockey League and were congratulated by council in the Council Chambers.
Members of the Siksika Atoms Hockey Team were treated with a dinner by Chief and
Council who celebrated with the team for bringing home the gold. The team won the Atom B
Division and received gold medals from the Alberta Treaty Hockey Games.
Eldon Weasel Child and Adrian Stimson Jr. were two Siksika Nation members from the
Blackfoot Confederacy who were presented with Blackfoot Art Awards. Weasel Child received
his for music and Stimson received his for visual arts.
Executive Branch Manager, Dr. Andrew Bear Robe along with Robert Breaker Jr. were recognized at the Banff Centre for their contributions in establishing the Aboriginal Leadership
and Management program. Program director, Brian Calliou, whose position Bear Robe and
Breaker each held, congratulated the pair and presented them with recognition awards.
Waterchief and Doore role model award recipients
Midget Tier 4 League Champions
Alberta Treaty Games gold medalists
The Banff Centre’s Three Amigos
Blackfoot Artist Award recipients
Getting Siksika students work experience and keeping them busy
during the summer months is a priority of Chief and Council. In
2010 over 320 high school and post-secondary students applied
for summer student jobs and all were put to work at one place
or another within the administration and local businesses.
Siksika Nation Youth Chief & Council 2010
(l to r) Anna Young, Susan Solway, Carly Weasel Child, Jeremy Breaker,
Carlin Black Rabbit, Jimmy Weasel Child, Allison Low Horn, Katelin Breaker,
Leigh Asham, Bryce Black Kettle, (missing) Tezlin Little Chief, Darrel Daniels
Siksika Council Membership Team
Chief & Council Year in Review
Councillor
Roy Bear Chief
Councillor
Barry Yellow Fly
Councillor
Ruth Scalplock-Melting Tallow
INTRODUCTION
The Council Membership Team (CMT) Councilors are Roy Bear Chief, Barry Yellow Fly, and Ruth ScalplockMelting Tallow. Their guidance and wisdom came from our Elders, Margaret Water Chief, Clement Bear Chief and Donny
Yellow Fly. In creating the research, the generous funding and grants came from the Alberta and INAC representing the
Federal Government. The Council Membership Team has been active since their mandate became established with
accomplishing of goals and objectives which is to achieve the quality of life and being accountable to its members.
The following are the activities that the CMT have accomplished to date:
Human Resource Development Strategy 1 completed May 2009
The HRD Strategy resulted in 15 recommendations for further development and researching two goals: To promote a
healthy lifestyle based on the determinants of health and to better communicate with the members and build stronger relationships.
Achievements
Received funding from: First Nations Development Funding (Casino)
Alberta Employment and Immigration
INAC Federal Government
Total Funding: $590,000.00
Total Funding: $150,000.00
Total Funding: $280,000.00
The HRD 2 and Wellness Strategy were the principle funding sources from FNDF while projects in ISD and IAP had the
two other funding sources that provided the generous grants to research these specified areas.
Human Resource Development Strategy (HRD2) Implementation 2010
Over the past year the following projects and activities were successfully completed:
Communication
1. Develop and implement a communication plan on the HRD Strategy - A series of media communicating the HRD
Strategy, including Brochures, DVD, an Information Kit (some both in Blackfoot and English), have been developed
and distributed to members' households.
Outcome - Currently, in the final stages of project completion
Achievements - Wade Healy, a Siksika member is contracted to prepare documentation for the
communications strategy.
0 to 6 Early Childhood Programs
2. Develop a strategy to enhance Early Childhood Development for Siksika children aged 0 to 6 - A planning report
based on interviews and input of providers of ECD services - Day Care, Head Start, Kindergarten at Elementary
Schools have been completed with recommendations to expand ECD services in Siksika Nation.
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Chief & Council Year in Review
3. Develop a plan to assess children for symptoms of developmental disabilities and implement Early Intervention - A
report identifying symptoms of key developmental disabilities, and treatment service requirements is completed, plus
a draft report on what assessment and treatment services are available in Siksika Nation and nearby municipalities.
Outcome All documentation is completed with recommendations for target group
Achievements - Contracted Monica Red Crow, a Siksika Member to conduct survey and research.
Traditional Language Revitalization and Retention
4. Conduct research and survey on the Siksika Language and develop language retention strategies -refer to the
Summary Report on Siksika Language Surveys with implications and Recommendations.
munity input
future
Outcome The research and survey has been completed and a package is available upon request.
Achievements - Cherie Spotted Eagle researched and did the survey along with the hiring of assistants
to help her do the surveys. Strong recommendations and very extensive comemerged from the findings. The Language retention must begin to take form with
implementations for strong possibility of an immersion program and ongoing strategies
to retain the Siksikai'powah'sin that is vital to our way of life.
K to 12 Basic Education
5. Commission Siksika Board of Education to conduct 5-year Business and Operations Plans - request made to the
Siksika Board of Education.
6. Siksika Nation (SN) commission a Basic Education Reform - directed to the Board of Education to complete.
7. Siksika Nation implements Performance Reporting process on Basic Education outcomes and report to Council directed to the Board of Education to complete.
Outcome -
Post Secondary Education
The SBOE have yet to include their Business Plan with the CMT.
8. SN develops and implements a Students Financial Support Scholarships program - A report on the needs for
financial support among Siksika PS students together with recommendations to establish Students Financial
Support Programs including an Endowment fund.
9. SN develops and implements an Academic Student Support Program (ASSP) - The details of such and ASSP and
the implementation process in Siksika Nation is investigated and reported.
10. SN develop and implement PLAR and "Life-long Learning Plan" - A report summarizing what is a PLAR and how
to implement such a service in Siksika Nation is investigated and reported.
11. SN develops a partnership agreement with PSIs to educate and train Siksika students for PSE - These partner
ships are being implemented on an on-going basis by PSIE.
Outcome Completion of research with recommendations and implementation waiting.
Achievements - Hired Leon Crane Bear and Monica Red Crow to research and survey.
Siksika Members at Large
12. SN implement Integrated Service Delivery/Case Management System to help unemployed members - With fund
ing support from INAC, the governance structure including a Senior Managers Steering Committee (SMSC) and a
Project Operation Committee (POC) have been formed. A Project Coordinator has been hired since April to be
responsible for the day to day operation of the ISD Project. Client referral has started and the POC is currently
developing client intake and assessment forms and a case management process.
13. SN consolidate E&T, LMI, CS services under one department
14. SN establish a Siksika HRD Authority to oversee the implementation of the HRD Strategy with a transition plan to
Siksika Administration
Outcome -
The Integrated Service Delivery is now functioning within the Administrative for case
Management with the departments and clients.
Achievements - Hired Paul Melting Tallow as the ISD Project Coordinator for a one year pilot program.
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Chief & Council Year in Review
Wellness Strategy
Currently the Wellness strategy is beginning the implementation of wellness outcomes and goals for the members.
The goals of the project include: Personal, Interpersonal, Social and Cultural for the members. The outcomes will be
reaching the members health, family, community and cultural settings.
The strategies are in place with three:
Implementation of the ISD and the HRD strategies that are currently in the process. Nation building is the next step in
achieving the results and findings of the very important task so that implementation can begin. Achievements are the completion of the wellness strategy and the beginning of another aspect; the planning and implementation of the proposed
Wellness Project.
Outcome -
Currently working on developing a strategy to develop and implement the Wellness component for the betterment of Siksika Nation
Achievements - Hired Monica Red Crow and Marsha Wolf Collar, a practicum student for the 1st phase
of the Wellness Strategy. Currently, the team is working on the Wellness 2.
Residential Schools
This project consists of three parts with truth and reconciliation, commemoration and the healing of survivors that experienced the traumatic and psychological indifferences of the residential school in Crowfoot and Old Sun Residential
Schools. Currently research is focusing on the commemoration aspect with input of the community whether to build a monument or look at other aspect to commemorate these schools that affected the community. The project is currently in its
early stages of research and will include the community to large degree.
Outcome -
The project is focusing on the commemoration and truth and reconciliation and is
expected to have recommendations related to commemoration in September.
Achievements - Hired Lynn Calf Robe to prepare the Residential School project which is expected to
be completed with recommendations by the end of September.
Independent Appeals Process (IAP)
The IAP began its stages in the early part of the Chief and Council's tenure in 2008 and planning took place throughout 2009. In March, the Federal Government granted funds to the Council Membership Team to pilot a project for the IAP.
The Ombudsperson was defined to hear and investigate complaints related to Administration, land disputes, and other that
is relevant to the office of the IAP. The grievances and unfair treatment would be dealt with through investigation and
respecting the cultural and community. In May 2010, the Team hired an Ombudsperson and became official on June 16,
2010 an achievement that can change the outcomes of unfair treatment and coming to better solutions. This is a one year
pilot project that will cease in June 2011 unless the Federal Government deems this position relevant to the operations of
Siksika Nation.
Outcome -
The office of the ombudsman is now in operation with a one year pilot project with an
EA to assist in the program.
Achievements - Hired Albert Angus and an Executive Assistant that has yet to be hired. The operations
will carry on throughout the year.
Community Calendar
Currently in progress as many of the departments and community happenings of Siksika Nation. A report will be concluded by the end of July.
Celebration of Successes
The celebration of successes is to further empower the community and the membership in recognizing their past and
present successes. A report and recommendations will be followed with recommendations and unveiling how to honour
those who have achieved successes.
Outcome -
Clinton Turning Robe was hired to finish off the above two strategies and will bring forth
finished products by the end of October 2010.
These are the achievements of the Council Membership Team along with accountability of the projects through generous grants and funds provided by the two levels of government. The transparency is the projects and deliverables provided by the researchers and consultants.
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Siksika Council Economy Team
Chief & Council Year in Review
Councillor
Carlon Big Snake
Councillor
Reynold Medicine Traveller
Councillor
Morris Running Rabbit
INTRODUCTION
The Membership Team is comprised of Chairperson, Reynold Medicine Traveller; Co-Chairperson, Carlon Big Snake
and Morris Running Rabbit. The Elder Reps. are George Cardinal and Levi Many Heads. Stephan Yellow Old Woman
serves as Coordinator and Lucy Wright is the Assistant Coordinator. Harlon McMaster works for SiksikaTel and Sherman
Yellow Fly for the Industrial Park.
Message from the Council Economy Team:
Over the past three years, the work was dedicated to our future generation, may they enjoy and be proud of our Siksika
heritage. New pathways must be paved and created by implementing a fiscal regime for our grandchildren's children,
those yet to be born. This journey has been both a rewarding and challenging experience, however, the intention at heart
is for the Siksika people in improving the quality of life through prosperity, partnership and Niipaitapiiwahsin.
Our priority in maximizing Siksika Nation Economy towards financial independence and prosperity is outlined in the
Economic Development Master plan. The EDMP serves as a roadmap that targets the requirements which promotes, facilitate and sustain a healthy local business climate. The Siksika Nation Heritage Fund has been a major accomplishment
as this brings hope in sustaining financial sovereignty. Siksika has the potential, prime location and capacity to fulfill this
destiny for our future children. The Council Economy Team has strived to work in collaboration with their counterparts and
most of all for Siksika Nation members.
The Council Economy Team recruited Stephen Yellow Old Woman as Council Economy Team Coordinator and Lucille
Wright as Assistant Coordinator. The Technicians started their contract on October 5, 2009. Both technicians contribute
their expertise and experience in working with the Council Economy Team in implementing the Economic Development
Master Plan and various projects. Our Elder reps, George Cardinal and Levi Many Heads have been an instrumental part
of our team.
COUNCIL ECONOMY TEAM: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVES
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Siksika Nation - Fiscal Regime/Siksika Nation Heritage Trust Agreement
Economic Development Master Plan - Implementation Process & Investment Strategy
Economic Development Commission Finalization - Organization Alignment
Fekete Report/Geological Study & Economic Evaluation - FNOGMMA
First Nation Development Fund - Lottery fund (13 Projects)
Siksika Nation Industrial Park
Housing Strategy
SiksikaTel
21
Chief & Council Year in Review
CET Year End Review by Stephen Yellow Old Woman, Coordinator
This past year can be characterized as a definite increase of tangible activity. Years past were taken to strategize and
engage in a planning process which included plan development. Although Nation members were not able to see the plan
be created it was a crucial step as it laid the foundation and direction for economic development, of which the evidence
has been seen in this past year. The key to all this activity is to establish Siksika Nation as its own economic center through
Nation owned businesses and creating a hub for economic activity (Industrial Park). Having Siksika controlling its own
economic fate has many benefits to the members of Siksika Nation such as an increased quality of life, through increased
opportunities for employment. Essentially what the CET team has started doing is begun moving the Nation's economy
towards financial independence and long term prosperity
CET Highlights - Accomplishments
The projects that the CET had undertaken and created momentum on were: The EDMP, The Economic Development
Commission, Heritage Trust, Housing Strategy, SiksikaTel, Siksika Nation Industrial Park, Siksika Nation Marketing, a geological reserves study, and research into best practices which included a site visit to our sister tribe the Southern Ute's.
FISCAL REGIME - Securing our Children's future: Siksika Nation Heritage Fund Reality
In developing the Heritage Trust 5 major banks were interviewed in spring time by the CET team, Treasury, consultants and key staff. Out of these 5 banks the Royal Bank of Canada was chosen to handle and take care of the trust. This
heritage trust is a key component of the fiscal regime. Within the regime it is looking at sustainability (how Nation dollars
can keep growing and working for itself) and the Heritage Trust is a major part of it as it allows Siksika Nation dollars to
keep growing.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT MASTER PLAN
The Economic Development Master Plan was official approval by Siksika Nation Chief & Council in July 2009. The
Council Economy Team, Chairperson Reynold Medicine Traveller, Councillor Carlon Big Snake and Councillor Morris
Running Rabbit have been appointed to serve as the Interim Economic Development Commission. This was approved by
motion at a Chief & Council duly convened meeting in August, 2009.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
An additional major component of the EDMP was the creation of the Economic Development Commission. The EDC
was approved in winter and currently has 3 interim members sitting on it and carrying out its tasks. The EDC is similar to
a Chamber of Commerce and they work on developing and improving the Nation's business environment to allow and permit economic development to happen. In the short term future the EDC will transition its interim members out and full time
members would take their place.
FEKETE REPORT/GEOLOGICAL STUDY & ECONOMIC EVALUATION - FNOGMMA
Also as part of the fiscal regime it was key to identify how much oil and gas Siksika Nation has left in the ground.
FEKETE was commissioned to do the analysis and report. What FEKETE had identified is Siksika has only about 20 million dollars in royalties left in oil and gas. The CET is ensuring through the fiscal regime and heritage trust that the last bit
of royalty payments is put to good use and will generate a long term income for Siksika.
FIRST NATION DEVELOPMENT FUND - SIKSIKA NATION PLANNING PROCESS
The Siksika Nation Planning Process for this term has been funded by the First Nation Development Fund as known
as the Lottery Funds from Alberta First Nation Casino. Initial application was made to provide funding source for the
Industrial Park negotiations. In November 2008, FNDF approved funding to develop and implement the a comprehensive
Planning Process. The 13 projects include Niinaiks Business plan for 2008 - 2010, Operations Plan 2008 - 2010 and
Council Team work plans and various intiatives/projects. One major project is the Siksika Storefront school is near completion and soon to have their grand opening. Ethel Winnipeg worked on the Youth Crime Prevention Strategy and has
done excellent work. Siksika is working in collaboration with First Nation Development Fund in revising reporting
requirements. Future developments include Siksika Agri-Center and Baseball Diamond Complex.
22
Chief & Council Year in Review
HOUSING STRATEGY
The CET has also submitted an application to the First Nation Market Housing Fund (FNMHF) in anticipation of receiving 200 million dollars to address the current housing backlog. This is a program that is designed for working Nation members that are able to acquire mortgages and are willing to take on the responsibility of a mortgage. The application was
submitted to the FNMHF in summer 2010 and is pending approval.
INDUSTRIAL PARK
Now in order for the economic activity to take hold in Siksika the CET team has begun looking at how to Market the
Nation. Marketing Siksika will place the Nation strategically with businesses and government which will allow Nation businesses and the Industrial Park to flourish. Nation members can expect to see a marketing campaign happening off the
reserve in the near future. Sherman Yellow Fly has been contracted to work with the Council Economy Team for the
Industrial Park.
SIKSIKATEL - Siksika's Own High Speed Internet & Telephone Company
In July 2010, SiksikaTel was incorporated as a Siksika's own Internet provider service for Nation members. Currently,
the company is doing a test pilot with Wi-Band Communications. Harlon McMaster had been hired to oversee this project. It is estimated the pilot will conclude by end of September and move forward in serving SiksikaTel to Nation members.
Southern Ute Indian Tribe - Economic Success Story
In November, 2009 and in May 2010 the Council Economy Team and Siksika Nation Council members travelled to
Ignacio, Colorado to visit the Southern Ute Indian Tribe. Upon researching economic development ventures, the Southern
Ute Indian Tribe has accomplished their economic success through hard work and dedication in improving the quality of
life for the Ute Nation.
In the late 1990's, Chairman Leonard Burch was instrumental in paving changes for economic development for the
Southern Ute Indian Tribe. The most important aspect for change was in the financial management within their organization. The fiscal regime has created the Southern Ute Growth Fund, today it is valued at 6 Billion dollar operation. From
its humble beginning in establishing their first company Red Cedar, the tribe made the decision to diversity into a various
economic development initiatives.
Current Chairman Matthew Box and Council members along with our Siksika Tribal Council has now establish a Nation
to Nation relationship and will continue to support Siksika in all aspects.
Southern Ute Tribe Chairman Matthew Box and his council share their formula for success with Siksika Nation.
23
Chief & Council Year in Review
EXECUTIVE MANAGER'S OFFICE
Andrew Bear Robe, Ph.D.
Executive Manager
Siksika Nation
I feel very fortunate to be serving as Executive Manager for Chief and Council
since February, 2009. I report directly to the Executive Committee of Chief and Council
that is comprised by the four Council Teams: Governance, Economy, Membership and
Council Initiatives. Essentially and very briefly, my role is to take care of Chief and
Council's political business, which includes dealing with the federal, provincial, municipal or other First Nation governments and organizations in many areas of political, economic and social issues.
In addition, since April 2010, I have assumed administrative responsibilities for
some program and service areas mainly to assist the various delegated Committees.
Human Resources and Land Claims both report to me directly.
Briefly, the following are some of the major accomplishments during my tenure:
Completion of the Nation Building Initiative Report by Native Nations Institute for Leadership, Management, and
Policy, University of Arizona, entitled, A Nation Within a Nation: An Analysis of Siksika Governance (December
2009).
Completion of drafting for four by-laws: livestock, dog control, residency and traffic - to receive 3rd and final
reading by Chief and Council and to be submitted to the Minister of Indian Affairs in Ottawa thereafter.
Developing a culturally appropriate Siksika Nation Constitution Commission - "for the people and by the people".
Governance and Administrative Reform that separates political business from administrative business, especially
in areas of internal governance and employment related issues.
Land Claims - participated in the final negotiations of the Bassano Dam Claim.
Working in conjunction with Stats Canada for the completion of the Siksika Labour Force Survey Agreement.
Meetings with Alberta Transportation to make Highway 901 and 547 a safer road for the public.
Assisted in the development of the Independent Appeals Program and the hiring of the Ombudsperson.
Assisting the Alberta Chiefs in the preparation of new fiscal relations with Canada and Alberta based on the eco
nomic and livelihood promises of Treaties 6, 7, 8,, and other constitutional undertakings and legal cases.
Assisted in the development of the SORAH Board for off-reserve affordable housing.
Arranged for the meeting of Council members with various Members of Parliament and Senators in June 2010,
Ottawa.
Developing structural changes to Siksika Nation Governance to enhance governance capacity, effectiveness,
accountability, and more inclusiveness via the Committees.
(photo left) Siksika representatives meeting with Senator Larry Campbell, Senator Gerry St. Germain, Senator
Nick Sibbeston. (photo right) Siksika representatives and legal counsel meeting with Macleod MP Ted Menzies.
24
Chief changes name to
honour great-grandfather
Chief & Council Year in Review
by Wesley Water Chief
There have been questions and rumors circulating as to
why the Chief changed his last name from Good Eagle to
Wolf Collar.
So Siksika Nation Chief, Leroy Paul Wolf Collar wants
to set the record straight on why he and his wife Marsha
changed their last name. "I think it is important as Chief that
I set the record straight and let people know my name is
Leroy Paul Wolf Collar and why I changed it," Leroy said.
Leroy said the story is not complicated and that he simply wanted to honour the wish of his great-grandfather, Paul
Wolf Collar, by reviving the name Wolf Collar. A name that
died out when Paul's brother George Wolf Collar passed
away.
To fully understand the reasoning behind the name
change it is important to explain more of Leroy's family history. "When we were children we were split up into the two
clans. My siblings, my sisters, half were raised by the Good
Eagle clan and the rest of us were raised by the Wolf Collar
clan," Leroy said.
“My great-grandfather, Paul, would tell me to
take the name, revive it;...”
Chief Leroy Paul Wolf Collar
"Paul Wolf Collar was my great-grandfather, my biological mother's grandfather. My grandmother, Maggie Wolfleg,
nee Wolf Collar, that was her dad, so Paul Wolf Collar was
the one who raised me, Paul and Nora Wolf Collar."
"My great-grandfather, Paul, would tell me to take the
name, revive it; bring it back because nobody has it anymore, so I am simply honouring my grandfather's request."
Leroy said the name change has nothing to do with not
wanting to remain with the last name Good Eagle, but is
instead his way of honouring his great-grandparents, the
Wolf Collars and carrying on their legacy.
"Sincerely, I am honoured to have changed my name to
Leroy Paul Wolf Collar and taking my great-grandfather's
name. Very simply put, it is not to disrespect anybody, my
family is still my family, they know I changed my name and
I am still Leroy in their eyes. They are very proud of me and
they are very happy for me for the fact that I took the old
man's name."
"In a nutshell I wanted to keep the legacy of the Wolf
Collar name alive so my wife Marsha and I have legally
changed our names and I believe our son Lesley, in the
near future, will be changing his name as well," Leroy said.
With their son Lesley changing his name as well the
legacy of the Wolf Collar name will live on for years to
come.
25
Banff Centre graduates
Chief & Council Year in Review
by Wesley Water Chief
Four members of council now join Chief Leroy Wolf ed. I'm not saying they did not understand it, they are very
Collar as graduates of the Banff Centre's Aboriginal leader- good people, and they provided us with tools to work with.
ship program.
But, perhaps, as we move on, strategic planning will be a
At an awards luncheon held at the Banff Centre, on May key focus in elections as we move forward."
21, councilors Carlon Big Snake, Reynold Medicine
The week-long courses offered by the aboriginal proTraveller, Herman Yellow Old Woman and Lena Running gram include: Inherent Right to Indigenous Governance,
Rabbit received a Certificate of Excellence in
Establishing
Institutions
of
Good
Aboriginal Leadership and Management.
Governance, Strategic Planning, Negotiation
To earn a certificate each had to comSkills Training, Aboriginal Leadership and
plete six Aboriginal Leadership and
Management Development, Principles and
Management courses. Wolf Collar congratuPractice of Good Governance, Indigenous
lated them and said the knowledge they
Women in Leadership and Best Practices in
received from the program gave him a better
Aboriginal
Business
and
Economic
understanding of strategic planning and will
Development.
Carlon Big Snake
assist them as well in moving Siksika Nation
Councilor Reynold Medicine Traveller said
forward.
the program has a way of tying each course
"Congratulations to all the graduates who
together to give a broader understanding of
are receiving strategic planning certificates.
issues affecting First Nation communities,
I'm overwhelmed and at the same time I'm
while providing the tools, skills and undervery grateful that we have more leadership
standing of how to deal with different issues.
coming to the Banff Centre for management,
"This program brings things together, how
learning all about leadership management
the shoe fits, and how the institute of good
and governance at the mega level," Wolf Reynold Medicine Traveller governance or the indigenous rights course,
Collar said.
or even negotiation skills training come
"I have worked with four chiefs since
together. You take these courses at post sec1993, it is then that I started my journey with
ondary or university but they don't tie them
the elected leadership, and it was very frustogether. They give you the tools, the knowltrating, because all those years I spent my
edge but it doesn't come together like it does
time micro managing and I was connected at
here," Medicine Traveller said.
the hips with the managers at the administraIn his acceptance speech, Councilor
tive level, which really got me nowhere, for
Herman
Yellow Old Woman thanked Wolf
Lena Running Rabbit
the most part, and it was always a dog fight,
Collar for encouraging council to take this
internally on resources.
program. "It is an honour, it feels good to
"However, let me say I was good at it, so
complete another phase of my life, I would
every portfolio I was assigned to I got what I
like to thank the Chief, because he is the one
wanted; however, never realizing what mega
who inspired us to complete this course."
meant, what strategic planning meant, what
"Other people I would like to thank are my
vision building meant, or mission, or what our
wife, my son, they put up with a lot with me
values and beliefs are, or even to scope out
being away. I would also like to thank the
what is an environmental scan, a SWOP Herman Yellow Old Woman community, the time they invested in me
analysis, mind mapping, core strategies or what systems being here and I will to give it back. Give back the knowlthinking is. So that is what this is all about," Wolf Collar said. edge you people have given to me to understand a lot of
Councilor Carlon Big Snake agreed with this sentiment stuff," Yellow Old Woman said.
and added the program also gave him the opportunity to
Councilor Lena Running Rabbit used the opportunity to
meet other First Nations, to learn what is happening in their thank the corporate sponsors it being an enjoyable expericommunities and from their unique perspective.
ence. "I wasn't forced to come here, it was an opportunity
"They have different situations and you have to appre- for me to learn and every day is a learning journey,"
ciate that. At times I feel we are very fortunate, especially Running Rabbit said.
when I look at the situation from other communities, I have
Siksika Nation has a partnership with the Banff Centre
to be appreciative in particular what direction we are going," which commits members of council and support staff to
Big Snake said.
complete their Certificate of Excellence in Aboriginal
"With strategic planning, that is one component that this Leadership and Management. The partnership will cost
leadership has, I can honestly say that I have never seen $180,000 and will be funded from the $7.6 million council
this type of model from past leadership that has been creat- received from the Alberta government for initiatives.
26
Record number of students
hired for summer jobs
Chief & Council Year in Review
by Wesley Water Chief
summer job, Wolf Collar is all too familiar with the consequences of not being employed. He blames too much time
on his hands as a youth throughout the summer months as
the reason for him getting into trouble and experimenting
with alcohol. He doesn't want the youth fall into the same
trap.
"I would rather see them gainfully employed than doing
nothing. Every kid deserves to have a job and I just love it,
seeing all the youth waiting to punch in for work in the morning. It is very positive to see and I guarantee them summer
jobs for as long as I am Chief," Wolf Collar said.
In order to fill work placements for the overwhelming
number of students a couple of work programs had to be initiated. The first is a Blackfoot cultural program which is overseen by Monica Red Crow. In the Sik sikai tsi ta pi (Siksika
Way of Knowing) Ka kyo sin/ mo kak sin
(Traditional/Learning) program 22 students will learn about
the Blackfoot culture while receiving work experience.
"Another project is the Community Pride Project which
is running through Old Sun under post-secondary,"
Blackrider said. "They have about 20 students and they are
working out of the powwow arbour and community center.
What they are going to be doing is cleaning the arbor, the
grounds and painting and getting it ready for the powwow."
Last year 201 students were hired through the summer
student program and this year's 320 students is the largest
Jenny Blackrider has her hands full this year with a
record number of Siksika summer students working
throughout the administration and local businesses.
Blackrider is the summer student coordinator and sees
that the 320 summer students, hired by Employment and
Training, are being supervised and kept busy throughout
the summer months.
"The students are placed throughout the whole administration, everywhere around the reserve," Blackrider said.
"Justice, the health centre, M&R Gas, Okan and Bowvalley
Ranch, BCHP, SRDL, basically every department has a
summertime student."
The post-secondary students started working on May
10 and the high school students and adult up-graders
began on July 5 but all will finish on August 17. In order to
receive a job the students had to provide proof of enrollment, complete a resume, a cover letter and fill out a job
application.
Chief Leroy Wolf Collar sees only positives things coming out of hiring all those who applied and, overall, believes
this is a step in the right direction for Siksika Nation. "I don't
see any other First Nation doing this and this is an opportunity to invest in our youth, our future and it serves as an
incentive for the youth to stay in school."
As a past manager of Employment and Training and a
Siksika youth who applied every year but never received a
Chief Leroy Wolf Collar met with Siksika summer student workers to update them on political
issues affecting Siksika Nation and to inform them of Chief and Council plans for the future.
27
Good Governance awarded
two years in a row to Siksika
Chief & Council Year in Review
by Wesley Water Chief
For the second year in a row Siksika Nation has been
recognized and awarded for delivering a superior form of
governance to its nation members.
In 2009 Siksika Nation government received its first
good governance award from a survey was conducted by
the independent organization the Frontier Centre for Public
Policy. In the 2010 Siksika Nation was once again recognized and Chief Leroy Wolf Collar said this shows that the
leadership is moving in the right direction towards selfreliance.
"It basically tells me that we continue to be consistent in
our efforts to ensure that we lead with good governance,
which involves being accountable, transparent, and developing and creating a path that leads to self-reliance," Wolf
Collar said.
"Of course the underlying aim is to improve the quality
of life for our members and so when you have an external
organization like the Frontier Centre come back a second
time around recognizing Siksika Nation in the top three it is
a good instrument to evaluate that we are on track.
“I'm please with that, it is impartial to the community, it
provides a non-bias opinion and recognizes our efforts in
providing good governance by Chief and Council."
The survey was filled out by band councils, health and
education personnel and community members and was
scored on questions related to good governance. Some of
Siksika Nation Councillors Hector Winnipeg, Ruth
Scalplock-Melting Tallow and Lena Running Rabbit
accepting the 2010 governance award.
“This shows the leadership is moving in the
right direction towards self-reliance.”
Chief Leroy Wolf Collar
the questions were based on how effective and efficient the
First Nation government was and was it participatory, transparent, responsive and accountable.
In 2009 when Siksika Nation first participated in the survey it placed third overall among First Nations in the three
prairie provinces, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba. Of
the sixty-eight participating First Nation communities
Siksika Nation was rated third after Manitoba's Rolling River
Nation and first place finishers Alberta's O'Chiese First
Nation.
In 2010 the format was changed with each province
having three top First Nations receiving good governance
awards. This year in the Alberta category Siksika Nation
placed third behind second place Paul First Nation and
O'Chiese First Nation once again came out on top.
Accepting the award on behalf of Chief and Council at
the awards ceremony held in Winnipeg were Councillors
Hector Winnipeg, Ruth Scalplock-Melting Tallow and Lena
Running Rabbit.
28
Chief Leroy Paul Wolf Collar with the 2009 award.
Siksika elder Tom Crane Bear
receives a National Aboriginal
Achievement Award
Chief & Council Year in Review
The Siksika elder was one of 14 First Nation, Inuit and
Metis from across Canada to receive recognition for their
contribution to their people, culture and communities.
The respected elder is humbled in being recognized
and if he had it his way he would split the award up among
many people who taught and assisted him along his journey
in life.
"I never expected it, I didn't expect anything, I am just
doing my work, it never dawned on me to win the award,"
Crane Bear said.
He gives thanks to elders in Hobemma, Kainia and
Siksika who assisted him in his addictions recovery and
taught him a lot about First Nation culture, heritage and spirituality.
“It’s nice to be a member of Siksika
Nation and the achievement awards is
also for them.”
Tom Crane Bear
Tom Crane Bear receives national award.
The Siksika elder would like to share the national
award with those who passed teachings on to him.
by Wesley Water Chief
Siksika elder, Tom Crane Bear received one of the highest honours to be bestowed upon an aboriginal person in
Canada, a National Aboriginal Achievement Award.
Crane Bear was the 2010 recipient of the Culture,
Heritage & Spirituality Award and was presented the award
in Regina on March 26.
29
He sends a special thank you to The Banff Centre, its
president and the aboriginal program staff for nominating
him for this award.
Crane Bear would also like to thank Siksika Nation
Chief and Council for being at the awards ceremony and
supporting him at this special time and the Siksika people.
"It's nice to be a member of Siksika Nation and the
achievement award is also for them. I don't take it like it’s
mine. If I could, I would split it up because they all deserve
it too," Crane Bear said.
The knowledgeable elder presently works at the Banff
Centre as a spiritual advisor for the Banff Centre's
Aboriginal Program.
Through the years he has also provided spiritual advisor services to Corrections Canada and served on Siksika
Nation's Police Commission and as an elder advisor to
Siksika Land Claims, to name a few of his accomplishments.
Crane Bear's award will be taken to the Banff Centre for
the staff to see and share in the award and it will then be
taken to the Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park Interpretive
Centre to be put on display.
He is the second Siksika Nation member to receive a
National Aboriginal Achievement Award after Dr. Gerald
McMaster who in 2005 received an award for Arts.
The 2010 National Aboriginal Achievement Awards ceremony was broadcast on national TV on Saturday, May 1,
2010 at 9:00 p.m., on Global.
Doore and Waterchief are
aboriginal role models
Chief & Council Year in Review
by Wesley Water Chief
Two prominent members of the Siksika Nation were recentRev. Waterchief was humbled by the recognition and durly recognized with role model awards for their contributions to
ing her acceptance speech expressed how she felt upon hearing
society and the Siksika Nation.
the news that she had been nominated for this prestigious award.
Among the 16 recipients receiving awards at the 14th
"It didn't quite sink in at first then the more I thought about
Annual Aboriginal Role Models of Alberta gala were two
it the more I felt very humbled, then at one point I started to cry,"
notable individuals who continue to make significant contribuWaterchief said. "What I was thinking about were all the people,
tions to the aboriginal community and have made a lasting
our beautiful people out there, who have done so much to get us,
impression on Siksika Nation, namely: Clement Doore and the
the native people, to where we are today. They all deserve
Reverend Margaret Waterchief.
awards, so much more than me."
This annual event is organized by Irene Morin to recognize
Rev. Waterchief is modest because she has lived a full and
aboriginals not only for their impact on society but for serving as
productive life and has dedicated her life to serving the needs of
role models for others to follow. At the Oct. 10, 2009 gala, held
others. She was born on the Peigan Reserve and she received her
at the River Cree Resort & Casino, Waterchief was awarded the
formal education at Cluny Bow Valley High School. It was here
Humanitarian Award and Doore was awarded a Lifetime
she met, fell in love with and married the late Raymond
Achievement Award for his work in economic development.
Waterchief. Together they had ten children but the task of rais"I've been involved in eco"The award is not only the recognition of ing them and four foster children
nomic development for most of
was left to Margaret when
my life and it has always been a your achievement but to encourage and Raymond passed away in 1976.
challenge but I had a lot of help motivate your colleagues and community
The reverend relied on her
and the reason I am here is peers to strive for excellence. For this reason Christian faith to see her family
because I had my own role mod- you were chosen aboriginal role models."
through the hard times. During
els to look up to and they are
Chief Leroy Wolf Collar this time she served on Siksika
numerous. I also had elders that
Nation council for 18 years and
encouraged me to never give up and always work hard and I am
worked in a number of other vocations including, Director of
very thankful for that," Doore said in his acceptance speech.
Alcohol Services and Treaty 7 Vice President of the Indian
Doore received his formal education at Olds Agricultural
Association of Alberta.
College and is also a graduate of St. Francis Xavier University in
In 1994, after many years of active participation in the
Antigonish, Nova Scotia where he received Social Leadership
church, from Sunday school teacher to lay reader to deacon,
Training. He is a former member of council and throughout the
Waterchief was ordained an Anglican priest. Upon being
years has worked in a number of positions with the Siksika
ordained, she moved to Brocket and was the priest in charge at
Nation including: Tourist Project Coordinator, Band Manager,
the St. Cyprian Anglican Church, a position she held with the
General Manager of Siksika Resort, Economic Development
church for five years before moving back to Siksika Nation to
Officer, and Service Area Manager.
begin her ministry at home, among her loved ones.
He is a founding member of the Board of Indian Business
Although she had a busy schedule, Waterchief volunteered
Corporation and served 17 years on the board before retiring as
one day a week in downtown Calgary at the Calgary Urban
its president. Upon his retirement he was also the President and
Project Society (C.U.P.S.) where she administered to the needs
Chief Executive Officer for Siksika Resource Developments
of the downtrodden and homeless. This volunteer position turned
Ltd. and was instrumental in establishing the Alberta Indian
into a full time job from which she eventually retired from, but
Agricultural Development Corporation.
she has not retired from the ministry and continues to preside
During his speech, Doore thanked Chief Leroy Wolf Collar
over baptisms, funerals, weddings, prayer meetings and spends
and members of council in attendance for their support and his
many evenings visiting the sick and lonely.
wife Pauline and family for being there for him. "When you
Chief Wolf Collar, who nominated Doore and Waterchief
work with a lot of people, under that scenario, there are people
for these awards and was the keynote speaker at the gala,
that help you achieve your goals, but before you go to work each
summed up the meaning of this award best when he said, "To all
morning there is your family that supports you," Doore said.
the recipients who will be receiving awards tonight, congratulaThe Reverend Margaret Waterchief is the proud recipient of
tions on your achievements. The award is not only the recognia Humanitarian Award for her years of service to the general
tion of your achievement but to encourage and motivate your
public and administering to the needs of the aboriginal and
colleagues and community peers to strive for excellence. For this
Siksika Nation communities.
reason you were chosen aboriginal role models."
30
Clement Doore pictured here with family members received Lifetime Achievement Award.
Reverend Margaret Waterchief received the Humanitarian Achievement Award.
Directory of Service Areas
and Service Area Managers:
Executive Branch for Chief and Council, Andrew Bear Robe:
Administration & Operations, Ian Breaker:
Agriculture, Derek Brass:
Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park, Jack Royal:
Community Services, Floria Duck Chief:
Corporate Services, Marion Brass-Yellowfly
Family Services, Merlin Breaker:
Health, Tyler White:
Housing, Stewart Breaker:
Justice, Dyan Breaker:
Land Claims, Joe Weasel Child:
Land Management,
Membership, Ida Duck Chief:
Public Works, Keon Doore:
Siksika Board of Education, Amelia Clark:
Siksika Resource Developments Ltd.,
403-734-5184
403-734-5172
403-734-5251
403-734-5171
403-734-5318
403-734-5173
403-734-5141
403-734-4300
403-734-5201
403-734-5128
403-734-5138
403-734-4371
403-734-5120
403-734-5216
403-734-3862
403-734-5257
Siksika Nation Tribal Administration:
403-734-5100 Toll Free: 1-800-551-5724 Fax 403-734-5110
Post Office Box 1100
Siksika, Alberta T0J 3W0
Visit our Website: siksikanation.com
Wesley Water Chief
Siksika Nation
Tribal Administration
Public Relations Representative/
Chief & Council Publicist
403-734-5101
wesleywc@siksikanation.com
Siksika Nation Chief & Council Year in Review was produced by Wesley Water Chief