FEBRUARY 2011 WE, THE TSE’KHENE NATION (PEOPLE OF THE ROCK) ARE PROUD PEOPLE WINTER

MLIB The Traveling Feather NO.12

Reports2010 in picturesNew daycare updateand lots more.........

FabulousPhotos!

I hear there is some good stuff in this months issue!

CONTEST

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Contributors

MLIB The Traveling Feather

Chief Derek Orr , Guy Rocheleau, Stephanie Rocheleau, Adele Chingee, Tamara Dugan, Holly Currah, Ken Solonas, Jodie Ware, Yasmin Ali, Bob Inkpen, Elizabeth Cooper, Kandy Klijnsmit, Geraldine Solonas & Marc P. Klijnsmit

McLeod Lake Indian Band address:

General Delivery

McLeod Lake, V0J 2G0

Toll Free 1-888-822-1143

Newsletter Submissions

Would you like to write something for The Traveling Feather? Please submit your story to mklijnsmit@mlib.ca

Website and email address

www.mlib.ca

tchingee@mlib.ca

MLIB Publiction No.12

The Traveling Feather is published 10 to 12 times a year. Members of the McLeod Lake Indian Band and the people of McLeod Lake can submit their news and pictures at mklijnsmit@mlib.ca

Office Opening Hours

The McLeod Lake Indian Band Office is open Monday - Friday 8.30am - 4.00pm.

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Adele Chingee & Kandy Klijnsmit

Bear Lake

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I have been contacted directly by a company called Summit Camps. They are  looking to hire camp managers and camp attendants. They are a Smithers BC based company, but they have contracts all over Canada. If you work with them you will most likely have the opportunity to travel to many different places as part of the job. They are looking for people with a good work ethic, and who are mechanically inclined. They are looking for people who are willing to help them build and maintain camps. There is opportunity for advancement to Camp Management positions if you are suitable. The camps that Summit Camps operates are hard camps, which means they are constructed buildings with indoor plumbing. These camps are more permanent and more comfortable then tent camps that exploration companies use. They are now accepting  resumes for work that will begin in March. If you are interested please send me your resume by fax or email and I will pass it on to them. When submitting your resume please indicate that it is for this so it does not get confused as part of an application for training.

 Thank you

Ken Solonas

Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen.

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Thank you Chief Derek Orr, Council members, Jan Hegel, Adele Chingee and all department supervisors for choosing The Grizzly Inn to take

care of the lunches and dinners in 2010!

Kandy & Marc

Chief Derek Orr’s Monthly Report

Dear Members,

Happy New Year Everyone! I hope you are all happy and well. I am looking forward to the New Year and also looking forward to the community quarterly

meetings in March. Although the year started off fairly slow it has been very busy the last two weeks.

Natural Resource Forum

On January 12-13, 2011 I attended the Natural Resource Forum at the Civic Center in Prince George. I was asked to be one of the guest speakers as McLeod lake Indian Band is recognized as a proactive and forward thinking First Nation. The 2011 forum focused on partnerships with First Nation, Industry and Government. I was asked to speak on the role that McLeod Lake Indian Band had in the re-start of the Mackenzie Pulp Mill. The fact is that the McLeod Lake Indian Band played a significant role in the re-opening of the Mackenzie Pulp Mill and will see benefits for years to come as a result. The primary reason that we had such a major role was that as a First Nation we were able to be directly awarded a Forest License to Cut from the Province of British Columbia.

Signing Ceremony – McLeod Lake – West Moberly – Black Diamond

On January 14, 2011 I attended a signing ceremony between McLeod Lake, West Moberly First Nation and Black Diamond. The new deal will have Back Diamond supply all the Modular Facilities for the Mount Milligan project and all three parties will share in the revenues in profits. This is an excellent opportunity for First Nations to work together and we look forward to working with West Moberly and Black Diamond. On a side note, I had a chance to talk with West Moberly Elder Betty Wilson. Betty told about the wonderful time she had the first time she had arrived in McLeod Lake and that Edward Solonas held a dance in their honor. It was also discussed that in the spring we will work towards a community to community visit for the Elders in the spring (once it warms up).

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2011/2012 strategic Planning

On January 24-25 McLeod Lake Indian Band Chief and Council and Administration, and Senior Managers held a strategic planning session in Prince George. Every year the McLeod Lake Indian Band develops an annual strategic plan for the year ahead. This year’s strategic plan was very enjoyable due to the fact that our financial position has improved significantly and many of our goals are realistic and attainable. One of the first outcomes of the meeting is to revisit and update the Community Development Plan. September 2006 was last time to Community Development Plan was review and amended. With a stable financial platform we are now able to plan and move forward towards community development in a manner that has never seen before. I know many of you will say “we have been through this process many times before,” but I want to assure you that this time it can be different. For instance, we have already seen community development as the new daycare will be commercially operational by May 31, 2011. With Membership input we can tailor a community plan so that it is both efficient and effective from an operational point of view. In the next few months we will be holding Community Consultation meetings to allow for Membership direction on Community Development Plans. Dates and times will be posted when finalized.

2011/2012 Budget Approval

On January 26, 2011 the Chief and Council met to approve the 2011/2012 Annual Budget. I am happy to say that there have been budget increases in Youth and Education and Elders Programs. Education’s living out allowance increased from $1100 to $1500. Education increased $19,500 for three enrolments positions in trades. The Youth Extra Curricular Activity Allowance has been increased from $200 to $300. Funds have also been set aside for McLeod Indian Band’s 2011 Cultural Camp.

On a personal note, I had a wonderful holiday season with our family and was able to take advantage of time off during the Christmas break. As usual our house is a very busy place, especially now that Arlene (my wife) was given a promotion to team leader of resources which means she is responsible for management of

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all the Foster Homes within the Prince George area. Congratulations Arlene!! Erica continues to attend Kindergarten and we are keeping her busy in her spare time with skating, gymnastics and piano. Erica was taking a hip-hop dance class but has opted out to take gymnastics instead. Erica is 5 years old going on 15 and will give you her advice whether you want it or not! Logan has a season pass for Murray Ridge and has just leaned to grind. Logan continues to develop his skill as a snowboarder which he loves to do on most weekends whenever possible. Our youngest, Owen gave us a big scare when we admitted him to the hospital last weekend. Owen had labored breathing and a fever of almost 40 degrees. Needless to say it becomes clear what your priorities become are when your children are sick. Owen was diagnosed with severe asthma and is still working on his recovery. Owen has been in good spirits regardless of his situation. As I said earlier, I had a great time with our family over the Christmas Holidays as I hit some personal milestones. On December 31, 2010 I turned 36 years old and I am truly grateful for where I am in my life right now. On January 27, 2011 I celebrated 8 years clean from the use of booze or drugs. I only share this to give courage, strength and hope to anyone who is out there struggling. It was not so long ago that I was spiritually, physically, emotionally and mentally bankrupt with absolutely no hope of a future. But with the willingness to change and support from my family and friends we were able to accomplish great things. I just want people to know that if I was able to do this, then surely anyone is able to do this as well!

Thank you for your time and consideration If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to e-mail or call me dorr@mlib.ca or 250-981-1332

Sincerely,

Chief Derek Orr

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Term Position Employment/Training Intake Assistance Worker

Under the direction of the Supervisor of Education and Employment/Training, the Assistant will promote the efficient operations of the Employment/Training Department. Duties include and are not limited to: Maintain and facilitate an Employment and Training program in response to the needs of all Band members under the supervision of the Employment & Training Officer: Primary Duties:

• Maintain an accurate filing system for the Employment and Training Department, • Receive all correspondence from members and organizations referring to

Employment & Training, • Ensure that ALL Employment & Training forms are completed before

recommending anyone for financial assistance, • Receive and log all correspondence (by fax, mail, or email) from MLIB members

referring to Employment/Training, • Receive and log all phone calls referring to Employment & Training, • Communicate on a regular basis with the current roster of Employment &Training

Clients, • Ensure all eligible members sign an Employment & Training funding contract with

MLIB, • Maintain and enforce the Employment & Training Department policies, • Assist Band members with proper and professional resume writing, • Keep a current list of employment opportunities posted for Band members, • Maintain a part-time casual Labour pool list, • Deliver a monthly written activity report (Due on the last business day of each

month) to the Supervisor of Education & E/T, • Perform and other duties as directed by the Supervisor of Education and

Employment/Training and/or Employment/Training Officer. Requirements:

• Experience with office administration and record keeping, • Must have extensive training & experience using word, & excel programs, • Ability to deal with the public in a confidential manner, • Valid BC drivers license

Start Date: ASAP Salary Range: $10-12/hr, depending on experience Closing Date: February 23rd, 2011 Forward resumes to:

Mcleod Lake Indian Band General Delivery McLeod Lake, BC

V0J 2G0 Fax: (250) 750-4420

Attention: Holly Currah, Human Resource Manager Email: hcurrah@mlib.ca

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Stephanie Rocheleau

Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen.

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In December, the youth participated in a variety of activites, including reguarl homework nights, as well as the youth portion of Community PRIDE Night, during which they had an opportunity to decorate t-shirts with things they liked about their community, and activities scheduled around the Quarterly meetings. Some of the older youth also attended a Youth PRIDE Night (which is slated to be a monthly event focusing on youth empowerment), a bowling party, a gingerbread-decorating activity, and a toboganning party. Then, the youth celebrated New Year's Eve with a sleepover and movie n' mocktail night at the band hall, followed by a pancake breakfast on New Year's Day.

In January, the youth got together to play Singstar (on the PS2) at the band hall. Youth between the ages of 5 and 9 also came out for a Children's Story Circle (slated to be a monthly event geared toward building a variety of skills, including literacy, social skills, empathy skills, etc.). On the January 28th NI Day, some of the youth took a trip into Mackenzie for a few hours of toboganning at Little Mac, followed by pizza snacks. On the following day, one youth took advantage of some private snowboard lessons which were arranged by one of the parents to take place at Little Mac.

Also... We would also like to announce that the youth are now selling their 2011 Youth Art Calendar. The youth would like to send out a HUGE thank you (Mussi!) to Duz Cho for generously sponsoring this project. The calendar is made up of art created by MLIB youth, and will be sold by the youth to raise money for activities, events, and equipment. The youth have opted to sell the calendars for $8 each. Please contact Tamara Dugan either at the Band Hall, via e-mail at tdugan@mlib.ca, or on her cell at (250)997-1471 if you would like to purchase a calendar - or simply ask any one of the older youth, as they can get one for you!

Wellness Support Worker, PGNFC-‐ACYWP

www.mlib.ca

Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen.

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February  is  shaping  up  to  be  a  busy  month.  Check  out  the  calendar  included  here  to  see  what  is  in  store  for  MLIB  youth  this  month.  In  the  event  that  changes  or  updates  are  made,  please  check  out  the  calendar  posted  on  the  Youth  Department  door.

Again,  it  is  both  a  pleasure  and  an  honour  to  spend  Cme  with  your  the  children  and  youth  of  the  McLeod  Lake  Indian  Band.  They  are  all  strong,  dynamic,  and  supporCve  individuals,  and  they  teach  me  something  new  every  Cme  I  have  the  opportunity  to  interact  with  them.

Mussi,

Youth  Worker/  Wellness  Support  Worker

Tamara Dugan

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Georgina & AtreyuSigning Ceremony – McLeod Lake – West Moberly – Black Diamond

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Georgina & Atreyu

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Good Day!!

I am the new Social Housing Coordinator as of January 17/2011. This has been an exciting change for me and I hope to complete the work that currently is in progress.

We have hosted Community Housing Meetings on Jan. 27-28/2011.There were (3) meetings.

The purpose of these community meetings was to give the community the opportunity to review the Draft #6 On Reserve-Housing Policy and for them to make suggestions before the policy goes into effect. Some major issues we face are the Rent arrears situation and the continual need for repairs to our houses.

There were some great ideas and suggestions that came out of these meetings and CMHC consultant Roxanne Harper is currently working on the report that is going to be provided to administration and Chief and Council. At this time I would like to shout out a BIG Thank-you to all community members, Chief and Council and staff that attended and provided input. Everyone’s participaction is helpful in improving our Housing Policy and the Housing department.

If anyone who is going to be affected by the New On-Reserve Housing Policy, and would still like to have input, please come and see me for a copy of the CMHC presentation and the Draft #6 On Reserve Policy.

If everyone works together we will be able to resolve some of these issues.

Congratulations from Housing to all who attended!!

Thank-you so much for your respect, time and input.

Social Housing Coordinator.

Elizabeth Cooper

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MEMBERSHIP DEPARTMENT UPDATE

What’s new in the Membership Department? Chief and Council have appointed a Family Representative Membership Committee of those members nominated by their Families.

The Family Representative Membership Committee Members are:

PRIMARYS: ALTERNATES:

Nathan Prince Eugenia IsadoreMabeline Akai Russ BoykoTerra Tylee Leanna TyleeJustin Chingee Shannon ChingeeDoris Jackson Marion Jackson Sharon Solonas Eureka CartyJenine Solonas – Council LiasonAlbert Peeling – Legal AdvisorElizabeth Cooper – Committee Advisor.

The duties of the Committee are to review and make recommendations in regards to improving the current Membership Code. They are to deal with the Membership directly in obtaining any and all recommendations, ideas, suggestions or concerns band members have within regards to the current Membership Code.

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Members, please feel free to approach any of the Family Representative Committee Members to submit information in writing.

Information that is received will be forwarded to the Committee for review and final recommendations will be then sent on to Chief and Council.

If we all work together, we will have a Membership Code that not only protects the Band, but will protect the Membership also.

We had tried to have Membership Code meetings on Nov 17/2010 and Dec. 15/2010 but due to non-commitment on behalf of some committee members, meetings have only dealt with the introduction of the Committee Members and terms of reference, outlining the scope of duties of the Committee.On Jan 26/2011 – We had a meeting, again due to committee members not attending, we did not have full quorum. I am currently working on the minutes of this meeting.

All Band Members, please feel free to request a copy of the current Membership Code, I can be reached at: 250-750-6843, please leave a detailed message if I am busy.

Thank-you,

I.R.A. – B618

Elizabeth Cooper

MLIB Elders Program Geraldine Solonas

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The first week of November began with a meeting to discuss the upcoming Elder Planning session on November 9th & 10th at Ness Lake Bible Camp. We also finalized $1500 of funding donated by ConocoPhillips in addition to $4250 from Canadian International Minerals, Inc. We also began discussions with the Land Referral office on a BC Hydro community meeting in McLeod Lake before the end of the month. On Wednesday, I attended the Grand Opening of the Mackenzie Museum (more like a re-opening). It was awesome to attend and see what was used earlier in the past century by our people as well as in outlying areas. I encourage members to take time to attend at the museum when it is open or you can call to make an appointment and browse through, it should take you at least an hour to enjoy what is there. They do have some pictures of our people, and if you have any pictures you wish to share with them let me know and we can arrange that. On Friday, arrangements were made for two Elders to attend the elementary school in Mackenzie to spend time with 13 students teaching them beading. Mussi cho to the Elders for taking your time to be involved and share your knowledge with youth.

The second week began checking with Elders who registered for the Planning Session and out of the seventeen who registered, only ten actually attended. Nine Elders stayed at the Camp in a beautiful lodge by the lake for two nights. The day and a half session went well with the Elders enjoying not having to cook, the food was good and we had a great Facilitator, whose time was donated by PGNAETA. Mussi cho to PGNAETA, Canadian International Minerals, Inc. and ConocoPhillips for their contributions in making this planning session happen.

In the third week I attended the elementary school in Mackenzie and enjoyed story telling with their kindergarten to grade one students. Stories were told to four sets of approximately 20 students each set and then sharing bannock with the students in each set. Mussi cho to Pat Cowan and MaryAnn Rice who fried bannock for all the children. This was also the day of the terrible storm in Mackenzie.

The fourth week began with being inundated with proposal calls due in early December, giving very little time to work on these. FirstVoices had a proposal call to apply for $6,700 to upgrade text, audio recordings, and videos to the best possible standard of our language on their website.

The Elders program received $1000 from Talisman Energy for their Christmas dinner. We thank Talisman for their generosity each year in providing a donation to the Elders.

Belated January birthday wishes to: Patricia Chingee on the 1st; Rose Boyko on the 17th; and, Alfred Solonas on the 27th.

We were to have church services on December 5th and that had to be changed to the following week due to the community meetings. The town of Mackenzie wishes to have local artists exhibit their art for a few weeks at a time in Mackenzie in 2011. If you know any MLIB member/artist who wishes their art displayed in this manner, please have them contact me and I will provide them with information.

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Derek Orr & Adele Chingee

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Feb 02/11

Despite heavy snow falls and cold weather progress has been made on the daycare project in January. The front entrance dormer is nearly in place allowing the completion of the roofing. The bulk of the roofing is complete with the exception of the front .The crated windows have arrived on site and will be installed as soon as the roof is complete. Bryant Electric is installing the rough electrical service. Once complete they will have B.C. Hydro connect the building allowing I.Q. Builders to commence thawing the floor for floor slab installation.

Public Works

Guy Rocheleau

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On December 10th, several Elders, Council members and DCL/DCC met with Canadian International Minerals, Ltd. in Prince George to discuss findings for a potential mineral mine behind Bear Lake. They are planning to set up meetings with Band members in early 2011 and February was suggested so we should be hearing from them soon.

In early January calls were made to several Elders in Prince George asking them what activities they would like to become involved in. There were suggestions of going to movies with passes; gym or swimming passes; going to a hockey game; take in a concert at the CN centre; etc. For those who were not contacted, please call Geraldine at the office to give your suggestions.

On January 13th, 2011 the Elders in ML had ‘dinner and a movie’ with six Elders plus the worker attending. The Elders attending said they enjoyed this activity and would attend other activities. Another activity was scheduled for the 26th for ‘dinner and card’ night. Several Elders attended the dinner only and briefly discussed other possible activities such as aquatics (at the Mackenzie Pool), tae-kwon-do, donation bingo and possibly a movie in Prince George. We plan to have a donation bingo in the near future.

On January 19th, I attended the trapping activity with the Mackenzie students, parents and a couple of teachers. I was the only local Elder able to attend. We were blessed with a nice sunny day which was not too cold, but two hours of snow shoeing was a bit tiring for some of us, including the students. The trapper got a coyote, two martins and a squirrel. It is awesome to see how much interest the students have in this activity. I had to leave before the skinning and stretching demonstration. Much thanks to the local trapper, Chico Crossland who donates his fee to a provincial wildlife program.

February birthday wishes to: Patrick Prince on the 1st; Andy Solonas, Jr. on the 4th; Sharon Solonas on the 7th; Elsie Dawson on the 11th; Virgie Inyallie on the 12th; Agnes Solonas and Doreen Isadore on the 15th; and, Gracie Solonas on the 26th.

We wish each and every Band member and those who work with and for us many blessings that they had a great Christmas holiday season, with much health and happiness and in whatever you do throughout the New Year!!!!

Program Highlights for Past Year: Reinstatement of Elder program in October 2009 through funding from Terrane Metals and Enbridge.

Prior to April 2009, each year the Elder program was primarily funded by the Trust and may have been supplemented by OGC funds.

Some Elders continue to stay involved with student activities in Mackenzie and PG to teach culture, crafts, tell stories, and share traditional knowledge such as medicine, trapping and history of our people.

Sale of Tesloni Trucks to Duz Cho Logging provide funds for the Elders to attend the annual BC Elders Provincial Gathering in Salmon Arm.

Community camp in Carp Lake on July 18th was successful as well attended by youth, adults and Elder.

Hunting camp at Weedon Lake in mid-October was successful and Elders and members who attended wish this done every year during the summer months for at least two weeks.

Planning session this fall show Elders belief that what we each put into the community is what we get out of it.

Church services set up for every 2nd Sunday at the Band Hall at 2 p.m. Everyone is welcome!

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Contest!!

Who is this??The 25th person who emails the right

answer to mklijnsmit@mlib.ca wins a$100 VISA giftcard

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2:00  p.m.    Church  Services  

Sunday,  February  13th,  2011  and  

Sunday,  February  27th,  2011  

If  you  need  prayer  for  any  reason    that  is  available  also,  just  ask!!!!  

McLeod  Lake  Band  Hall  

EVERYONE  WELCOME!!!  Come  join  us  for  praise  &  worship.  

Pastor  Barnes  of  Living  Joy  (Mackenzie)  officiating.    

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July 18 2010 -‐ 2:13PM

MLIB Elders Program

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MAP Language Report: The Elder Program submitted a proposal for funding for a Master/Apprentice project (MAP) which

involves a fluent speaker spending 300 hours with a semi-fluent speaker where only our local dialect is spoken. The funding of $18,000 for this project was approved and the funding goes directly to the team, who work hand in hand with funding agency (FPHLCC) of Victoria, who monitor the project work being done and require constant reports prior to getting paid for each 50 hours. In checking with the funding agency, they said this is how this specific language projects work for all ten First Nation communities. - I believe that being selected as one out ten such projects out of two hundred Bands in BC says much for our Band, i.e. that we have good standing with the funding agency in completing our previous projects by reporting and make sure the funds we receive are spent properly.

We have requested the funding agency to provide ongoing reports to the Band on this project. Questions on this program must be directed to Deanna Daniels of the funding agency at

1-250-652-5952 or Sharon Solonas @ 250-750-4500 who is the apprentice on this project.

FirstVoices Language Project: This project is approved and began December 20th, 2010 and is to be completed by March 31st, 2011. There will be two workers: the project coordinator/technician and fluent speaker/language recorder. The project funding of $6,700 is to upgrade the text, audio recordings, images and videos of our

language to the best possible standard on the current www.firstvoices.ca website. Please visit the site and on the home page, select “McLeod Lake Tse’khene” on the drop down list of languages to learn some of our language.

One of the main requirements for this project is to report publicly to the community who owns the language of the intention to eventually have our language available on mobile devices such as iPod/iPad/iPhones. These will allow anyone in the general public to be able to access First Voices data without need for internet connectivity. Is this something you, as a Band member, think is a good idea? If you have any questions or issues about our Tse’khene language eventually being available on mobile devices please contact Geraldine Solonas at the Band office or email gsolonas@mlib.ca before the end of February, 2011.

FirstVoices holds that free access to FirstVoices language content via (through) the FirstVoices website or a mobile FirstVoices application makes language resources more readily available to First Nations community members as well as more widely known and respected by non Aboriginal people. The First Peoples’Cultural Foundation holds the copyright on the FirstVoices Mobile application software. The First Nation that developed content in their FirstVoices language archive holds copyright on the Mobile application language content.

Geraldine Solonas

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August 23 2010 -‐ 4:35PM

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I have something to say.......Anything to share or show?? Send your story and/or pictures to mklijnsmit@mlib.ca

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More Horoscopes on Page 18

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What is the Aboriginal Youth Internship Program?

The Aboriginal Youth Internship Program is a 12-month paid internship for Aboriginal youth residing in B.C., age 29 and under. Interns are placed in provincial government ministries for nine months and then in Aboriginal organizations for the last three months of their internship. Interns are supported by the Aboriginal Youth Internship Program staff (program lead, program coordinator, and program administrator), and supervisors and mentors in government ministries and Aboriginal organizations.

Aboriginal Youth Internship Program

http://employment.gov.bc.ca/aboriginal_youth_internship_program

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Hello Band Members!!

I hope you are all well!  I have to admit I am doing well in Vanuatu at the Moment, enjoying some vacation time before returning to Canada and the  end of my Maternity Leave.  Since November time, things at MLIB from my stand point have been on the  up and up.  Slowly and surely we are moving forward in our Business deals, Economic Growth and getting better on the  Communication to members.  Since securing some outside funds now like the MacKenzie Pulp Mill, we are closer to providing our OWN money to the Administration and Band Programs.  This will in time ensure that we do not need to access the MLIB Trust funds each year and we can increase our wealth, credit and our way to being self sufficient from Government funds.  The New Year is looking good for MLIB, As I have noticed this past 3 years, things do take time so please be patient but also vocal because we won't know what to look for or fight for as your elected leaders.  We would love to please everyone so please be patient and vocal to your needs and we'll work together to getting there!Elections are coming up soon, so again please put some Good thought into the reasons you elect someone and for running in the elections if you choose to.  As an off reserve Councilor, I Do really enjoy my position but it takes a lot of time in travel, reading and attending meetings via teleconference or in person.  From my experience I thought it was one meeting a month for C&C, but there is about 6-8 Special Chief and Council meetings in a month as well as meetings with Companies and for negotiations.  A Good C&C will have 6 Councilors and a Chief that have the  Energy, personality, knowledge and values for others.  I'll repeat what some Band members remind me of and I am honored to be is a Voice and Representative for the  people!Mussi Cho Everyone!!!!

Yaz PrinceOff Reserve Councilor

Yasmin Ali

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Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen.

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MLIB Education DepartmentDecember 2010 & January 2011Report

Danache’a,

This past year has brought much excitement and many challenges in my role as Supervisor of Education & Employment/Training. I hope you enjoy my report and if you have suggestions or ideas, please feel free to contact me at the main office or by email jware@mlib.ca.

My primary duties include managing the daily correspondence such as Elementary/Secondary, Post Secondary, Youth and corresponding with my co-workers; Margie Alec, Employment/Training Officer and Geraldine Solonas, Elder Coordinator.

Elementary/Secondary

• 102 youth are registered with the Education Department• As communicated in April 2010, there will be NO attendance and/or effort incentives after

February 2010. • In mid-August, a mail out went to all parents/guardians regarding 2010/2011 school year. Regarding

above. All parents were asked to send in Elem/Sec Application forms to ensure files up to date.• 18 requests have been approved for school tuition/fees• 2 requests for monthly bus passes have been approved up to March 31, 2011.• There is a $5000.00 budget for tutoring, one continuation from last school year. No new ones for

current new school year were received.• Potential for 5 graduates, about 4 are confirmed• Great News:▫ Chief Derek Orr approved in principal and will definitely get Council approval to re-instate at

the next December Council Meeting to have our attendance & effort incentives re-instated!!!!!!!!!!!!

▫ I am hoping to do our first cheque run for the 2010/2011 school year in the beginning of February 2011. Please make sure your child(s) attendance & full report cards are faxed here. Please note that is it the parent’s responsibility to ensure that their child(s) attendance/reports are faxed here on a regular basis, not the Education Department.

Attendance Incentives are based on the grade of the child, and how many ‘unexcused’ in a month. If a child has more than 4 unexcused, they will receive $0.00 for that month. However, if a child receives ‘excused’, they will not be deducted that month and receive the full allocated amount. Please note, in order for your child to be considered for the ‘Best Attendance’ award, he/she must not miss one day even if excused.

Effort Incentives are dispersed as they are received and processed by what grade your child is in. All Elementary children can expect 3 effort incentives in one school year. All Secondary children can expect 4 effort incentives in one school year; this may vary with each school district/province.

Tutoring Requests are process by date received; all sponsored students are expected to fax in monthly attendance/progress reports. Contact me for more details or if any questions.

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Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen.

Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen.

AGA 2010

Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen.

Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen.

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Post Secondary

As of January 31st, 2011, I have 14 students registered with MLIB Education Department. These students are taking various programs at various levels.▫ 14 full time sponsorship (includes monthly living out allowance, tuition and books/supplies)

6 university level 7 college level

1 new request for Natural Resource Technician Diploma – last year of completion 1 upgrading

▫ 5 part time sponsorship (includes tuition and books/supplies only) 3 college level

1 new request for Automotive Service Apprenticeship (Level 1) 1 new request for Electrician Pre-Apprenticeship Program

2 upgrading

At this time, the MLIB Education Department has had 3 withdrawals; 2 full time students and 1 part time student who did not complete their program. 1 is a medical withdrawal; the other is due to academic performance.

Three things I always look for when applications are being reviewed:• Be offered at an eligible post-secondary institution (INAC has identified eligible institutes)• Be a least one academic year in length (this normally includes at least 8 months of classes, but an

institute may offer a condensed program)• Require grade 12 completion for admission (an institute may accept an equivalent)

Post Secondary Education Policy• I am currently reviewing to amend the 2004 policy; such things to include compassionate leave, 3

levels of sponsorship (Level 1 – Certificate/Diploma, Level 2 – Bachelors, Level 3 – Masters).• Living Out Allowance allocations will be reviewed during this time

Trades FundingIn BC there are several routes to become a qualified tradesperson. One route for experiences workers is to apply to write a challenge examination for certification in the trade. The other method involves completion of requirements of an apprenticeship industry training program as defined in the relevant Industry Training Program Profile. Three main avenues of entry into apprenticeship training are:

a) Completing the level 1 apprenticeship technical training (and a portion of the practical training) while in high school (Ace-It or Secondary School Apprenticeship Program) and seeking employment as an apprenticeship with an industry sponsor upon graduation;

b) Completing a pre-apprenticeship (foundation) trades training program, where you study at a post-secondary institution to complete the level 1 technical training (and a portion of the practical training) for an apprenticeship and seeking employment as an apprentice with an industry sponsor upon graduation;

c) Obtaining employment as an apprentice with an industry sponsor who supervises your work-based training hours and periodically completing school-based technical training prescribed in the relevant Industry Training Program Profile.

Trades programs are only eligible for INAC Post Secondary Education funding if all of the following criteria are met:

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picture by

Courtney Cassidy

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Grrrrr!!

Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen.

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1. The student must be eligible for support (i.e. A registered Indian or Inuit, accepted into an eligible program at an eligible institution and have lived in Canada for at least 12 continuous months prior to application) AND

2. The institution offering the program must be eligible (i.e. A public post-secondary institution, a Designated private post-secondary institution, or an Aboriginal post-secondary institution offering an eligible program through agreement with a public or Designated institution) AND

3. The program must be eligible (i.e. provide a certificate, diploma or degree and be at least one academic year in length and require secondary school completion for admission)- The last point is where many trades programs do not meet the eligibility requirements for

INAC Post-Secondary Education funding; for example, many trades programs only require completion of grade 10 for admission or the technical training/classroom portion is only 6 o 8 weeks in length and not equivalent to an academic year.

- I have identified this issue and hope to address it in the new fiscal year for 2011/2012 by providing three (3) full-time seats with other funding options. At this time, nothing has been confirmed. Please check for later updates in the upcoming year…

Youth

At this time, the MLIB Youth budget is very restricted. This past year, we did receive $15,000 from the sale of the Tesloni Trucks for the PGX 2010 in August and to

cover this year’s Christmas youth gifts. PGX 2010, we only spent less than $2500.00 Barb Heine, who was our Youth Worker this past summer has done a lateral move within MLIB and is now

our Community Health Representative. Tamara Dugan is still working with our Youth. Tamara works closely with Morfee Elementary and does our

weekly homework nights. Part of her wages is funded through the PG Friendship Centre. Youth Worker posting closed on Fri Nov 26th, interviews to be conducted very shortly.

Extra Curricular Activities (ECA) can assist with after school activities such as soccer, hockey, dancing, etc… Some examples are: ski hills passes, winter jackets, and boots. All kids ages 4 to 18 are able to access this. Must be registered with MLIB in order to access. To date, 22 youth have accessed this program. These monies do not accumulate over the years, its either you use it or lose it. For 2010/2011, the budget is set at $200/year per child. Program runs from April 1st to March 31st of every

year. If you would like to utilize these monies, forms are available through me.

Christmas Card 2010 Contest (Closed)

• I would like to thank the two entries that were received before Nov 23rd, 2010. More entries did follow, however, due to the sensitivity in timing; I was unable to accept their entries. This is the first ever Christmas Card Contest that MLIB has done and it was suggested by a fellow employee. The Planning Committee loved the idea! Next year there will be sufficient notice before December 2011…

• Staff was emailed both entries, with names omitted. • Staff was given 24 hours to vote for their favorite. • I would like to present to you, the winner:

Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen.

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▫ Darion Steele, age 4 years old• I would also like to acknowledge the other entry:

▫ Lilianna Crowe, age 7 years old

As acknowledgement, the winner’s picture will be posted in the MLIB office every year and hereinafter.

NEWEST CONTEST… (Open)

Three computers were donated to MLIB during the AGA this past August. Two were given to our Grade 12 students and we would like to extend this opportunity to one student to win this.

Criteria to enter:▫ Must be registered with MLIB ▫ Must be attending a primary or secondary school▫ 3 Categories that will be looked at when consider successful applicants:

Effort Must demonstrate good work ethics Report cards/Progress Reports MUST be faxed here by January 28th, 2011. Due to error

in communication, this date has been extended until February 18th, 2011 Attendance Attendance Records MUST be faxed here by January 28th, 2011. Due to error in

communication, this date has been extended until February 18th, 2011 Personal Attributes

A personal essay must be included with your application. Why you think you should receive this laptop?

Selection Process: 3 Staff members, 1 Elder and 1 community member to review applications in late February 2011▫ Point System:

Points will be awarded based on performance.

Winner to be announced beginning of March 2011. Good Luck to all students!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

In Closing

Thank you for your time and if have any questions on the program that we offer, please do not hesitate to call me at the (250) 750-4415, extension 848 or by email jware@mlib.ca.

Respectfully,

Supervisor of Education & Employment/Training

Jodie Ware

Newsletter & Website Update Newsletter

Hello everyone!

How are you doing?? Hope things are working out great so far in the new year! It’s been a while! Due to error in communication in December we were not able to get out a Newsletter at the end of 2010. Well, that was a bit of a problem, because many MLIB members and readers of The Traveling Feather were emailing me “what happened with the newsletter!?!?!?” , “Maaaaaarc, why didn’t you make a newsletter!?!?” and “Please, do something, we really miss the newsletter!!”. Fortunately there is always next month, so here we are. I hope you all liked this months MLIB newsletter. Remember, the newsletter is made by the McLeod Lake Indian Band for MLIB members, people of McLeod Lake and subscribers. If you would like to share pictures or stories for the newsletter, please send your submissions before the end of every month to mklijnsmit@mlib.ca. Thank you!

Companies who are interested in advertising in The Traveling Feather should contact mklijnsmit@mlib.ca for rates and conditions.

This issue of The Traveling Feather will be used to find more advertisers.

Website

The MLIB website still is a big hit. I mentioned it a couple times before, but I can not believe how many people check out our site. People from all, yes ALL over the world. Up to date we’ve got 37 different countries on the stat counter. Pretty amazing, right? One of the reasons of that many visitors is that 2010 was an outstanding year for MLIB. Chief & Council were involved in many business deals, with the historic revenue sharing agreement signing in Victoria as an absolute highlight.

Would you like to share or show your art or pictures to a very international audience, or have a little web shop for your native beadwork please let us know. We can design a personal webpage on the MLIB website. (members only)

One last thing: Two big thumbs up for Mr. Solo for all the great information he shares with us on the MLIB Facebook page!!

MLIB Newsletter No.13 will be available March 5th 2011 online at www.mlib.ca or, on request, in print at the McLeod Lake band office.

Marc P. Klijnsmit