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VOLUME 13
Volume 13, No. 26• NOVEMBER 10, 2006 ARTICLE Diabetes Special Chisasibi resident winning the fight against Diabetes Chisasibi’s Sarah Louttit, 52, has had diabetes since 1991. At least, that’s when she was diagnosed during a stay at a treatment centre in the Gaspe town of Maria. Until then, she never thought about the disease and admitted that she knew very little. Diabetes Special When it comes to the reality of diabetes in the North, Chisasibi physician Darlene Kitty has her thumb on the pulse of the problem. In fact, at the time of our interview Dr. Kitty could give the exact number of diabetes sufferers in Eeyou Istchee: “Of the nine villages up here we have 1,363 patients who have diabetes,” she reports.
An aboriginal history of diabetes Though diabetes was virtually unheard of in Northern communities 50 years ago, today the disease is at epidemic proportions. One person who studies this phenomenon is Dr. Stanley Vollant, who heads up the Aboriginal Health program at the University of Ottawa and is an aboriginal health advocate. He says the rate of diabetes is much higher among aboriginal peoples than the rest of the Quebec population.
Walking the talk against diabetes To address the North’s ever growing rate of diabetes, the community of Mistissini will host the very first Cree Regional Conference on Diabetes November 28-30. “It’s like that old expression that it takes a village to raise a child,” says Solomon Awashish, a Cree Health Board program officer for prevention of chronic diseases. “Well, it takes a whole community to work together to prevent diabetes. It’s not just a Cree Health Board problem.”
A NEW BEGINNING IN MAEUSHTEUIATSH? The community of Maeushteuiatsh played host last week to an unprecedented gathering of Quebec’s Aboriginal nations and the provincial and federal governments, as well as a number of opposition politicians and leaders in education, the labour movement, and industry.
Cree youth go to Montreal... Over 200 Cree youth more used to seeing ptarmigan, caribou and beaver got up close and personal with a few new species recently, including penguins, alligators – and Alouettes. A caravan of three full school buses left Mistissini October 19 for a Canadian Football League match in Montreal in an adventure that included a side trip to the city’s Biodome zoo.
Waswanipi sawmill closed - again The crisis in Quebec’s forest industry has hit the Waswanipi sawmill. The mill officially suspended operations for the third time in its history on September 21 due to a sagging lumber market and poor economic outlook for the year, according to Jack Blacksmith, Director General of the Mishtuk Corporation, which operates the mill. EDITORIAL No deal: letter was wrong In our last issue, the Nation published a letter to the editor from Leonard Matthews. In the letter, Matthews claimed that the Grand Council had completed negotiations with the Canadian government. It was also claimed that after approval by the federal cabinet this new agreement would be worth $4.3 billion to the Cree. The Nation has since learned that these statements are untrue. REZ NOTES Sugaring off I switched on the news the other night and beheld a glimpse of our possible future, one right out of the film Escape from New York. Yes, I’m talking about a futuristic Orwellian state, in which someone else can tell you what to eat, for health’s sake. The future, apparently, is now. UNDER THE NORTHERN SKY Take only what you need When you take part in a traditional Pow Wow, the first thing you notice is the rhythmic beat of the drum. It is difficult to miss the deep, resounding pulse of the drumbeat.
Volume 13, No. 25• OCTOBER 27, 2006 ARTICLE Art of living an empowered life Elected September 13 with a 75 per cent majority, Eva Ottawa is the first woman to become the leader of an entire First Nation people in the province of Quebec. An inside job Investigation reveals theft of almost $300K from Waskaganish band An accounting firm’s forensic examination of the Waskaganish band council’s finances has uncovered a theft of almost $300,000.
Khayden Otter-Rupert recovering after skull surgery Brave. Inspiring. Heroic. These words best describe Khayden Otter-Rupert in his courageous battle to live.
Halloween games… or how to keep the kids from climbing the walls A Halloween party is always a great way for people to come together and celebrate the best of the season, but managing a room full of kids on a sugar high can sometimes be a hassle. That’s why it's always best to keep it structured and plan out games and activities to keep them busy, happy and out of mischief.
Putting the fun in functional Many kids will be dreaming of dressing up as their fave superhero from the movies, a Barbie princess or as a popular toy. These costumes can often be difficult to find or purchase, however, particularly if you live somewhere remote or just don’t want to shell out that much on something that expensive.
Winter Road on the James Bay West Coast The Services Company is working with DeBeers to upgrade the Winter Road to meet the requirements of the communities and DeBeers. EDITORIAL Just us By the Creator, it is true. The truth in that old chestnut of a joke we all told way back when. Justice for Indians? Look at the jails it’s just us. REZ NOTES XX vs. XXX To my knowledge, I was born from a woman. She was born from a woman, who was born from a woman, who was born from a woman, who was…. UNDER THE NORTHERN SKY Power of the Drum When you take part in a traditional Pow Wow, the first thing you notice is the rhythmic beat of the drum. It is difficult to miss the deep, resounding pulse of the drumbeat.
Volume 13, No. 24• OCTOBER 13, 2006 ARTICLE Women’s History Month Did you know that October is Women’s History Month? Did you know that the 2006 edition was dedicated to the achievements of Canada’s First Nation women? Three communities to vote on EM 1-A The chiefs of the three communities that will be most affected by the EM1-A project are making an 11th hour stand against the diversion of the Rupert River.
The classroom in crisis The educational system in Mistissini – and by extension the Cree Nation – is in trouble. So deep, according to some, that it is only a matter of time before there is a major crisis. EDITORIAL Our mother’s en-dashweems Our mother, Mary Ann Baribeau-Rabbitskin, passed away in October 2004, leaving behind a life filled with service to others, especially children. REZ NOTES Women’s work When I was a kid, women were some kind of superheroes to me. It was nothing to see a little old lady slash her way through the bushes to set a snare, or topple an ice-age old tree into cords of wood, ready to be snowshoed out and ferried across the Fort George River. UNDER THE NORTHERN SKY Equality of sexes based on survival Someone informed me the other day that there is a Women’s History Month designated by the Government of Canada. Women are celebrated during the month of October for their contribution to Canadian society.
Volume 13, No. 23• SEPTEMBER 29, 2006 ARTICLE Mistissini Basketball Camp a slam dunk Literacy is a key component in the development of a child. Without it, kids feel left out, unable to communicate in an age in which newspapers and online blogs rule. Mistissini’s 2006 Basketball Camp was set up to attack the large problem of illiteracy at the grassroots level in Eeyou Istchee. Cree trappers look to a diminished future The Cree Trapper’s and Hydro-Québec Conference, held in Val d’Or Sept. 14-16, was set up to get the trappers talking. The question is, was anyone listening?
BUYER BEWARE! Myths and Truths about herbal and other
alternative remedies Everywhere we look, there seem to be advertisements for quick-fix, easy solutions to every problem. Some herbal remedies advertise fast and easy weight loss. Others promise instant relief or cure of long-term health problems. Vitamins claim to boost energy and enhance health. Are these products safe? Do they really work? Are they worth the money? EDITORIAL When the music’s over... It’s now been a year since Matthew Mukash was elected Grand Chief of the Crees in a decisive vote, sweeping Ted Moses from office after a narrow defeat three years previously to the good doctor. REZ NOTES The ups and downs of Cree TV The latest buzz around is the CREETV concept. Yep, Crees on the boob tube. It used to be just about everyone’s dream to be on TV, with Canadian Idol and all that, but just imagine what could be done with CREETV. WILL ON THE GRILL Getting Ready For Winter It’s been a while but I’m back cooking again. The next Will on the Grill will include some moose recipes as I know many people out there are currently hunting moose. Some might even be hunting deer as I understand they are more northerly than ever before. Don’t forget to send me your favorite recipes for wild game.
UNDER THE NORTHERN SKY The evolution of my cookies Cookies have always been a big deal to me. In southern non-Native communities, a treat like cookies is taken for granted as being a simple pleasure that anyone could enjoy at any time.
ARTICLE Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee) /Cree Regional Authority Annual General Assembly Ouje-Bougoumou played host to this year’s Grand Council of the Crees and Cree Regional Authority’s Annual General Assembly. Six Anglican Deacons Ordained in Chisasibi The Anglican faith in Chisasibi gained a much-needed shot in the arm recently as six new Cree deacons were ordained in an elaborate ceremony. A Cree Pathway to southern schools Cree students looking to attend CEGEP down south are in for a pleasant surprise: a new pilot program called Cree Pathways will help them integrate into their new surroundings more smoothly than ever before.
Out of the park, in the ground Dudley George is a name we should never forget. After a lengthy 25-month inquiry and testimony from 139 witnesses, the inquiry into Dudley George’s death is bringing his family that much closer to closure in the 1996 shooting death of the Aboriginal protestor. But is it enough? REZ NOTES All agog at the AGA While listening to earnest debates on whether or not we are Eeyou or Eenou at the Annual General Assemblies over the past three decades, I have often wondered whether or not we would ever settle on anything. Sure, we compromise often, but when do we really get to see something chewable, like say… Residential School Syndrome. UNDER THE NORTHERN SKY Getting Ready For Winter Now that winter is on the way people are starting to think about what to do when the cold weather arrives.
Volume 13, No. 21• SEPTEMBER 1, 2006 ARTICLE Language skills key school success As the economy grows stronger in the North, so does its need for educated and skilled workers. In a growing economy, a good education can be more valuable than gold. Gordon Blackned elected new CSB Chairman The people decided it was a time for a change.
Cree lawyer-to-be is on a mission to help her people The Chiefs of Nemaska, Chisasibi and As the Cree Nation continues to grow, so too do the hopes and dreams of its young people.– the communities who will be most affected by the damming of the Rupert River – have released a document that questions the validity of the EM-1A project. The second chance man With a high drop-out rate often comes social and legal trouble. That is why for kids that have had such difficulty there are people like Gordon Hudson.
Vocational school offers life solutions Does your job give you the “blahs”? Are you thinking about changing careers? Have you ever aspired to learn a trade but didn’t know where to start? Drink, dope and the damage done Unborn children are hurt for life when pregnant parents party hard
Results of the 10th Annual Mistissini Police Fishing Derby For the past 10 years the Mistissini Police have hosted an Annual Fishing Derby for the community of Mistissini and visitors. Money for Waswanipi school announced Education becoming growth engine for community
EDITORIAL AIDS: infecting our people at an alarming rate The biggest misconception when it comes to Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, or AIDS, is the fact that you are safe from it and that you could not possibly contract the disease. Well, you’re dead wrong, especially if you happen to be Native. REZ NOTES Talk is no longer cheap As an avid Star Trek fan since childhood (I even made a model starship, only to find out years later that it was a Klingon ship), I often wondered whether or not those neat items like the Tri-corder would ever come to be in the real world. UNDER THE NORTHERN SKY Making it Right Recently, I took part in Treaty #9 commemoration ceremonies at Matachewan First Nation. I met with Barney Batise, an Elder and political figure in the community who has done much for his First Nation over the years.
Volume 13, No. 20 • AUGUST 18, 2006 ARTICLE Air Rally brings international ‘jet set’ to Wemindji When you hear the words air rally, you automatically think one of two things; air show or a race. Victims of crime to receive new services: Grand council reviews promising CAVAC project Victims of violent crimes in Eeyou Istchee may – as soon as this fall – be able to rest a little easier in dealing with the after-effects of those incidents thanks to a program called CAVAC.
Three Chiefs denounce Rupert River diversion The Chiefs of Nemaska, Chisasibi and Waskaganish – the communities who will be most affected by the damming of the Rupert River – have released a document that questions the validity of the EM-1A project. Riddu Riddu and the midnight sun I knew we were in Norway when I saw the reindeer skins for sale at the Tromsø Airport gift shop. EDITORIAL Finally – support for Cree victims of crime The Grand Council of the Crees is currently reviewing a very important new project that may affect you and your loved ones. REZ NOTES Bustin’ myths The bodjagee, or boogeyman, is a myth designed to keep children quiet at night, even though some kids have probably suffered nightmares as a result and are certain that the scary dark figure in the black night lurks in their closet or under the bed, waiting… UNDER THE NORTHERN SKY Tattered and patched but still here Recently, I took part in Treaty #9 commemoration ceremonies at Matachewan First Nation. I met with Barney Batise, an Elder and political figure in the community who has done much for his First Nation over the years.
Volume 13, No. 19• AUGUST 4, 2006 ARTICLE Five Generations of women Many Native teachings talk about the importance of looking ahead to the unborn generations – usually seven – and what affect our lives will have on them and their offspring. One Eastmain family is lucky enough to be able to communicate between five generations, from a three-month-old newborn to their 93-year-old matriarch. Profane put down by Coon Come shocks GCC meeting The Grand Council of the Crees board meeting was running smoothly, albeit a bit long, when one derogatory comment from an elected official turned the mood sour.
Former Native Alliance leader founds new off-reserve group A new organization for off-reserve Natives calling itself The Confederation of Aboriginal Peoples has been founded, and its leader, Guillaume Carle, is anxious to resume his recently interrupted political career. Ouje-Bougoumou Golf tournament For the second year in a row, the weather cooperated to assure that the Oujé-Bougoumou Golf Tournament was a resounding success said Nick Paradisis, OJ’s Chief Executive Financial Officer. Mistissini Mini Fitness Challenge Kenny Gunner said he was tired after finishing first at the Mistissini Mini Fitness Challenge. EDITORIAL Beat the heat – get chillin’ It has been hot in Eeyou Istchee. I don’t know if anyone has tried frying eggs on the sidewalk of the band council steps lately, but at one point Whapmagoustui and the surrounding area was the hottest place in North America. REZ NOTES Sand between my toes The beach is a place of dreams and liquid laughter spills from the mouths of all those who bathe in the waters of time, making the swimming hole a favourite pastime for those in need of cooling down and old-fashioned fun. Beach time was always one of my favourite ways of enjoying the lazy, endless days of summer. UNDER THE NORTHERN SKY Through the eyes of children This has been a week of many firsts for me. It has also become a week of memorable first time happenings for people around me.
Volume 13, No. 18• JULY 21, 2006 ARTICLE From the mean streets to the recording studio “He may be a man of humble origins, but for rapper, award-winning producer, emcee, director, editor, and graphic designer Daybi, things are just beginning to heat up. The Nation caught up with him earlier this year to see what kinds of hot projects he has on the burner, what it takes to be such a multifaceted artist and how he got there. Innu announce plans to sue Hydro-Québec The 4,000-strong Pessamit Innu community has filed an $11 billion lawsuit against Hydro-Québec for “total devastation of culture and way of life.”
Manitau’s traditional inspiration From singers to dancers, to painters and sculptors, musical talent is in abundance in Eeyou Istchee. One of the more famous musical duos in Cree territory is Richard Bosum and Kenny Mianscum, also known as Manitau. Aglukark’s Earth is Blood Red Musician, activist and public speaker Susan Aglukark has just signed with the Winnipeg-based Aboriginal record label Arbor Records, which on Aug. 8 will release her sixth album, Blood Red Earth. EDITORIAL Canada’s double-cross at the UN The Canadian government’s recent vote against the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples was a surprise move and is one that will cost Canada dearly. REZ NOTES Music to my ears The beat goes on throughout the night, the spirits have been sated by loving subjects, songs that have been passed on for millennia, thoughts that have rung out for generations, tradition remains unbroken… UNDER THE NORTHERN SKY Privacy issue I never had a lot of privacy when I was growing up. Privacy wasn’t always possible in a crowded three-bedroom home with eight siblings and two parents.
Volume 13, No. 17• JULY 7, 2006 ARTICLE Three times a charm “What time is it? Time to get busy!” Alouettes Coach Don Matthews’ unofficial song belted out of the speakers at Mistissini’s makeshift football field in front of 200-plus eager, football-hungry kids. Forest fires hit Mistissini again More evacuations as fire creeps to within feet of homes.
Cree vocational training centre grand opening Looking for a better education? Cannot find it in your home community? Waswanipi and the newly opened Sabtuan Regional Training Centre might be just the place to go. Gathering caps Chisasibi family violence project Family violence hurts everyone: children, wives, husbands, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins. When it happens in a home, no one is immune or unaffected. EDITORIAL Ready to evacuate? A few weeks ago in early June, I witnessed much of the first fire-related evacuation of Mistissini. I watched as lightning struck from the sky. Soon after, I could see a small plume of smoke reach for the sky. REZ NOTES Quench for Fire After having often watched, mainly for the education mind you, Quest for Fire, in which fire was revered and carried about in some pre-historic gadget to guard an eternal flame long before our trusty Bic was around, now I’m finding fire to be somewhat more of a nuisance. UNDER THE NORTHERN SKY Time to smell the roses Gardening is very new to me. No one ever took the time to grow flowers, shrubs or trees up north. The closest thing to gardening in Attawapiskat was a sort of potato farm on Potato Island, a small island in the Attawapiskat River. WILL ON THE GRILL All of the following recipes are made with traditional ingredients found in or around the Cree communities. You can substitute mussels for any of the clam recipes.
Volume 13, No. 16 • JUNE 23, 2006 ARTICLE Does the Punishment Fit the Crime? Sexual assault cases are at epidemic proportions in Mistissini. In fact, when the Nation spoke to several key members of the community, they all had first-hand experiences with sexual assault, from simple touching to rape. Big Trout Lake - First Nation faces $10 billion lawsuit Platinum prospectors trying to legally evict Ontario band from its territory.
Fires prompt Mistissini evacuation The people of Mistissini woke up to a frightening occurrence on June 7 after at least six forest fires were ignited by lightning and were threatening the community. Under the gun It’s often a frustrating job being a police officer, especially in small Northern communities like those in the Eeyou Istchee. Friends and family feel slighted when you won’t give them or their loved ones a “break.” Father’s Day Celebration While attending university in Montreal, I had a chance to visit Louise (Jefferies). She gave me pictures her mother, Annie had kept of us when we were young. Caution on the roads Seven police officers are going to be gung ho for a while on the roads. Residents from Mistissini, Waswanipi, Ouje-Bougoumou and Wemindji may be in for a rough ride after the police officers finish their course. EDITORIAL Law and Order: Eeyou Istchee Our focus in this issue is on justice and policing. Several stories this week raise a multitude of questions about the current models of criminal justice, punishment and rehabilitation in Eeyou Istchee and in First Nations across Canada. REZ NOTES The evolution of Cree justice Back in the day when comic books were the only things we had to stimulate the imagination, a hero always emerged to deliver justice. UNDER THE NORTHERN SKY One man’s junk One Saturday morning I heard of some local yard sales taking place and decided to head into town to see what I could find. Whenever anything goes up for sale for a good price I am ready to have a look. THE LAST LINE Moose TV A crisis was threatening to erupt on the forested set of Moose TV just as executive producer Ernest Webb drove in early one morning.
Volume 13, No. 14 • MAY 27, 2006 ARTICLE 2006 National Aboriginal Championships The fifth Annual National Aboriginal Hockey Championships (NAHC) was held May 6-13 in the Mohawk Territory of Kahnawake and the community of Chateauguay. Nemaska hit by early forest fires Forest fires have hit the small community of Nemaska hard in recent years, and this year they are getting their share even earlier than usual.
Wrestling with success There are many sports available for the youth of Eeyou Istchee. Hockey and basketball are the most popular, obviously, but John Bosum is trying to change that. And his 16-inch python-like arms are helping him along the way.
EDITORIAL Shooting the messenger The hearings on Hydro-Quebec’s proposed Rupert River diversion, whether in the Cree communities or outside, are always of interest to the Nation staff. Those we couldn’t attend in person we listened to on JBCCS’s Cree Radio Network as did many Crees. WILL ON THE GRILL Salmon Chowder and more Some easy recipes this time around. It’s always nice to return home as my family likes to cook and we teach each other a few tricks here and there while trying out new recipes.
Volume 13, No. 13• MAY 12, 2006 ARTICLE First People’s Fest develops split personality The 16th edition of the Terres en Vue First People’s Festival comes with a twist. Crees look east to jump-start economy Waswanipi business leaders returned from a fact-finding mission to Hong Kong April 8-19 with some solid leads for developing the Cree economy.
The POW WOW LISTINGS A listing of upcoming Pow Wows
The Nation Summer Tourism Guide Montreal is one of Canada’s biggest tourist hubs with so many attractions and festivals that when the summer season hits, its hard to know which one to plan a vacation around. From jazz to blues to Alouettes to women’s tennis, Montreal has it all but we have decided to make the decision process a little easier with an overview of just about everything the province’s cultural capital has to offer.
Montreal on the Cheap For as much as this fine city may have plenty to offer to those with the big bucks, there are also other activities for those visiting with very little in the piggy bank.
Tips for trips Don’t you hate the whiners… When will we get there? How much longer? I’m bored, etc. Sometimes it’s enough to turn a fun vacation trip into a marathon from hell. It’s understandable as the kids are bored with nothing to do and by the time you get to where you are going you are frustrated and looking for rest, not fun. Here are a few tips to keep the trips fun. Most work best in a car but can be adopted for air and water travel.
EDITORIAL Celebrating Mother's Day Some people think this idea was originally conceived by Julia Ward Howe after the American Civil War as a day to honour the inherent pacifism of mothers. In reality, the idea goes much further back. The ancient Greeks celebrated a festival as they practiced mother worship. THE LAST LINE The passing charade I don’t usually venture into Montreal’s east end because I’ve never in my 15 years as a resident felt comfortable there. Maybe it’s because of my steadfast refusal to speak French or my recurring fear of being surrounded, isolated and severely beaten by skinheads, bikers, or the typical Quebecois redneck.
Volume 13, No. 12 • APRIL 28, 2006 ARTICLE Pulling strings with Grand Chief Matthew Mukash The Nation: How are you doing in terms of carrying out your election promises? Grand Chief Matthew Mukash: Since our election, Deputy Grand Chief Ashley Iserhoff and I have tried to meet with as many Cree entities and organizations as possible. Chisasibi planning massive wind farm Chisasibi’s Yudinn Energy has applied for an export permit from the National Energy Board to build a wind farm that will generate up to 1,650 megawatts; and with it, the ability to sell excess energy to the U.S. and Ontario as well as other parts of Quebec.
Dreams can come true Three very sick children in Eeyou Istchee are smiling today thanks to the Children’s Wish Foundation. One is on his way to Disneyland in California. And two others are also looking forward to visiting Mickey Mouse and his band of animated friends in the near future.
Screen Play Lucky Number SLevin – Bruce Willis has had better characters as a hit man. Had he not killed you with an array of weapons or moves, he could have easily bored his victims to death. Also, there have been less predictable plots. EDITORIAL Jonathan Cheechoo – Aboriginal role model San Jose Sharks right-winger Jonathan Cheechoo has finished the NHL regular season with a league-leading 56 goals, winning the Maurice “Rocket” Richard trophy in the process. In doing so, he joins heady company. WILL ON THE GRILL Restaurant Joya Montreal’s Little Italy is known for its upscale, elegant restaurants. One of them stands a head above the rest, however. When you see Joya’s recipe below for a caribou meal you’ll understand why. UNDER THE NORTHERN SKY Food for thought with spring goose hunt There is nothing like the sound of a goose (Niska) to stir deep emotions and memories in a Cree person from the James Bay coast. Recently, I heard the first sign of spring in the distant calls of geese high in the sky.
Volume 13, No. 11• APRIL 14, 2006 ARTICLE The Big Bird Virus Epidemic: Avian flu is the talk of just about every media outlet and family dinner table these days. Yet with the all the buzz surrounding Avian flu or the particular strain that has everyone so concerned, H5N1, it’s hard to know what the facts are and even harder to assess what kind of threat this virus really is to Canadians. The new NHL offers lessons far beyond hockey With about a week to go before the playoffs, this National Hockey League season has been a revelation.
Jurisdictional dispute pits Chisasibi against James Bay Municipality The James Bay Municipality (JBM) has issued a warning to Chisasibi’s Cox family – halt construction on your winter camp; it’s on land we’re renting from the Minister of Natural Resources (MNR).
Salon des Vins et Spritueux de Montreal It’s a dirty job, but someone has to do it, they say. This year I returned to the Salon des Vins et Spritueux de Montreal bringing along that noted Cree connaisseur of fine wine and great scotch, Don Nicholls.
Grand Chief meets with Premier Charest: For the first time since his election last September, Matthew Mukash met with Quebec Premier Jean Charest. UNDER THE NORTHERN SKY The Land of the Mushkego There is a reason why my people are called the Mushkego Cree. We reside on the James Bay lowlands, a region that starts about 100 kilometres from the western coast of James Bay. This region stretches from Hudson Bay in the north and down to the southern tip of James Bay. This western area is mainly flat land with few high points or rock outcroppings.
Volume 13, No. 10 • MARCH 31, 2006 ARTICLE Chishienuu Chiskutamaachwin Many in the Cree Nation have talked about the traditional knowledge of our Elders and how some of it may be lost as they pass on. More and more, however, the Cree communities are doing something to not only preserve those teachings but are making it a part of everyday life. This is Mistissini’s story: what the community is doing to ensure Cree culture, values and knowledge will continue to be a part of everyday life. Charlie Brien: a pathfinder Charlie Brien was one of the first Crees to choose an untraditional career and combine it with his traditional Cree values and way of life. He chose to do this by starting one of the first Cree-owned businesses in Mistissini.
Generations in the restaurant business Mistissini residents flocked to the grand opening of the new restaurant on the first day of spring, March 20.
Car Wash and Laundromat For some the career choice is that of an owner/businessman
and opportunities in Eeyou Istchee abound for youth. EDITORIAL Jobber Jobs. We all need them (unless you’re lucky enough to be rich), and, by extension, we also need the cash that comes with them.
Volume 13, No. 09 • MARCH 17, 2006 ARTICLE Aashuumiih 2006 Aashuumiih translates from Cree to English as “pass it to me.” To the people of Waskaganish this means the transfer of traditional knowledge from one generation to the next. Stacy Bear, the Waskaganish Youth Chief, said these trips are open to ages 13-29 “but it’s mostly those aged 13-17 that participate.” Squatter eviction time in Abitibi-Témiscamingue For the past seven months, the Ministry of Natural Resources has been tracking the camps of illegal squatters who have come to the Abitibi-Témiscamingue region to hunt and stay on the land without permits.
Healing our youth through sport Eeyou Istchee needs individuals like Gordon Hudson in Mistissini. Hudson puts in a tremendous amount of hard work and overtime as Mistissini’s Director of Youth Services with the Cree Health Board. But the best part is he also opens various activities up to all nine communities.
AGA 2006 @ Waskaganish From the start you could tell that this Special General Assembly of the Grand Council and the CRA would be preoccupied with Hydro-Quebec’s EM-1 and Rupert Diversion Projects. UNDER THE NORTHERN SKY Why Should Anyone Go Hungry? Most North American cities and towns are connected by road, rail and air. Food comes into these communities easily. We have produce from all over the world and lots of it. Volume 13, No. 08• MARCH 3, 2006 ARTICLE For better or worse: The wording of a recent Quebec Superior Court ruling on a Waswanipi sawmill’s attempt to break with Montreal-based Domtar was simple and direct: no way. In memory of Matthew Coon Come Sr. passed away on February 15 at the age of 114 (or more) years old. He was born in the 1890s and was the oldest Cree Elder. When he was a little over the youthful age of 100 Coon Come was given a pair of moccasins whereupon he said that he guessed people wanted him to walk the land for a little longer. Coon Come was a man of wisdom and humour.
Waswanipi dominates Chapais hockey tourney If they had entered a midget team, it might have been a clean sweep UNDER THE NORTHERN SKY Google like an eagle I am flying high above the trees, looking down on the white-washed pebble beach of the southern coast of Akamiski Island. I can see every indention of the coast, the thin ribbon of beach, the green forests, swamps, the dark blue oblong lakes and the thin lines of rivers and creeks.
ARTICLE La Tuque residential school razed Paul Dixon bought a sledgehammer with the little money he had left once he arrived in La Tuque on February 1. His sole purpose: to demolish the building that swallowed the lives of many of his Cree brothers and sisters and in some way use the tool to help him on his path of healing.
Four years after liver transplant, Waskaganish boy now faces cancer Eight-year-old Norm Blacksmith has been through what amounts to a lifetime of ailments. He underwent a liver transplant in September 2002 to overcome being born with liver sclerosis. Then, in January of this year, doctors discovered a tumor riddled with lymphoma near his rectum. They removed most of it, but approximately two centimetres were left. EDiTORIAL Bittersweet Bay It was kind of sad to hear this past week that the Hudson’s Bay Company had been sold to an American financier named Jerry Zucker. I had mixed feelings, as I am sure is the case for many Aboriginals. REZ NOTES Heart knockers The whims of love send whitewater rapids along the rivers that flow through the veins of my heart, pounding a primal drum beat that threatens to excite all my calm common sense into a violent sea of insanity. UNDER THE NORTHERN SKY Shelter from the storm It is the winter of 1992 and we are getting ready to make a trip in our half-ton truck to Moosonee on the winter road. Few people are using the road at this time.
Volume 13, No. 06• FEBRUARY 3, 2006 ARTICLE Jonathan Cheechoo talks to the Nation about the new NHL, Sweden and moose... he Nation had a chance recently to talk with Jonathan Cheechoo, one of the NHL’s exciting young wingers. We sat down with the rising San Jose Sharks star at the Bell Centre in Montreal to get his view on many things and ask him questions about his stardom in Native circles.
Cree youth meet and greet Cheechoo in Ottawa They came, they saw, they cheered, and in the end they jumped into their vehicles for the long ride home to reflect on their encounter with a young Cree role model and the only Eenouch hockey player in the NHL.
Cree companies sign multi-million dollar deal with De Beers Air Creebec has made a bold move on the west side of the James Bay coast, announcing a $10.3 million, three-year transportation contract with De Beers Canada to service the new Victor Mine Project near Attawapiskat.
Mistissini man pleads guilty to EM-1 killing A bizarre murder case that saw an alleged murderer roam free in the community right up until he pled guilty in an Amos courtroom is finally over. EDITORIAL Happy VD Day! I remember being woken one Valentine’s Day morning with a “Happy VD, baby!”
REZ NOTES
Playing Stormy Weather The weather was stormy. The waves were cresting, foaming over the rocks and hurled upwards to curve downwind out on the James Bay islands. The sea never looked worse from this angle, so I was glad I wasn’t out there in a canoe. UNDER THE NORTHERN SKY Don’t spread the flu I have been dealing with a bad flu for the past week and a half. It started with a slight cough that later turned into a continuous one, along with congestion, a runny nose, headaches and weakness. It is a real setback for me.
Volume 13, No. 05 • JANUARY 20, 2006 ARTICLE The legend of Kuikuhâchâu Part 2 One day as Kuikuhâchâu ran, he came across a trail of people who had been traveling. He followed it and reached a campsite. There were two teepees, a small one and a large one. It was obvious that the large teepee had been feasting on caribou but the small teepee had nothing to show that they were eating. It seemed that the people who lived in the small teepee were hungry.
Wemindji, Chisasibi lead way in fight against diabetes If the hard work of Northern Stores employees in Eeyou Istchee is any indication, diabetes might be a thing of the past thanks to ambitious fundraising to fight the disease. EDiTORIAL New government, old prejudice? There are dark clouds on the immediate horizon for Canada’s First Nations with the increasingly likely election of a Conservative federal government under the leadership of Stephen Harper.
Volume 13, No. 04 • JANUARY 6, 2006 ARTICLE The legend of Kuikuhâchâu Part 1 I will tell the legend of Kuikuhâchâu, the man who took the form of the Wolverine. He was the one who confronted the Giant Skunk called Wâniyûyâu. As the legend goes, the Giant Skunk took human form also, using snowshoes when traveling during the winter. Wâniyûyâu was a violent being, who took pleasure in killing everyone he encountered.
Mistissini child survives third open-heart surgery A seven-year-old child from Mistissini has already gone through more pain and suffering than most people go through in a lifetime.
North West Company walks for diabetes in Hawaii The message from the Northwest Company is clear: if you walk enough and eat right, nothing can stop you, not even diabetes! EDiTORIAL Sharing in the challenges of 2006 On behalf of the Nation I would like to offer my deepest appreciation to each of the Cree leaders for the incredible efforts that you made in 2005 toward the advancement of the Cree Nation as a whole.
Volume 13, No. 03• DECEMBER 23, 2005 ARTICLE Grand Council celebrates 30 years of JBNQA The Grand Council of the Crees used their annual Christmas dinner in Montreal December 14 to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement with a special tribute to the chief negotiators of the agreement.
Renewal Commission says all Natives should elect AFN chief The Assembly of First Nations Renewal Commission (AFNRC) has released its nearly 300-page report containing 47 recommendations for reorganizing the AFN.
Nemaska man charged with beating taxi driver Charlie Robert Junior Trapper might be spending his holidays in jail.
Christmas Countdown! ‘Twas a week before Christmas and all through the house, a few were stirring as well, they have not yet finished their holiday shopping and the panic has really set in. Sound familiar? EDiTORIAL All we need is... There has been an alarming increase in violent episodes in Eeyou Istchee in recent months and it’s sad that some of it happened just in time for the holidays. UNDER THE NORTHERN SKY What Is Christmas? You know Christmas is just around the corner when you start seeing the red, green and white lights strung out around the windows and roof ledges.
Volume 13, No. 02 • DECEMBER 9, 2005 ARTICLE Growing up The James Bay Cree Communications Society (JBCCS) recently completed its 23rd Annual General Assembly in Ouje-Bougoumou. One of the items discussed was the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation – Northern Quebec Services (CBC) and its relation with the society.
Chief involved in brawl Eastmain’s newly elected Chief could be in serious trouble after being accused of attacking a Chisasibi man after a heated political discussion.
Congregation wants more Crees to run local church They just weren’t going to wait any longer. A group of Chisasibi Anglicans hoping to see more Cree priests and deacons in their church is forcing the archbishop’s hand.
Cree communications faces challenges at AGA Finding new and stable sources of funding for Cree media in Eeyou Istchee was one of the many issues brought up November 22 in Ouje-Bougoumou at the Annual General Assembly of the James Bay Cree Communications Society. UNDER THE NORTHERN SKY The paths of our ancestors My people on the James Bay coast have only been using motorized transportation for a few decades. A generation before mine, people had to use their own energy to get around on the land.
Volume 13, No. 01 • NOVEMBER 25, 2005 ARTICLE American concern grows over O-J contaminants Senator Sununu promotes documentary to help publicize issue. The New England region of the United States was prime political territory for the Cree during the battles over Hydro-Quebec’s Great Whale hydro-electric project. So it’s no surprise people there are now heavily sympathetic over the issue of mining and heavy metal contamination around Ouje-Bougoumou.
‘We haven’t been paid in three months’ Nemaska forestry workers say Ted Moses’ company giving them a run around. A crew of forestry workers from Nemaska is wondering why they haven’t been paid for three months after they helped clear brush from 10 hectares of Ted Moses’ trapline for the new EM-1 hydroelectric project.
Cree Nation youth go on long trek to Ottawa The Cree Nation has had a presence in Ottawa for quite some time now. The Grand Council office is located there, Cree students live in and around the area while attending school and a number of Cree youth are making the trek to see the Ottawa Renegades an annual rite of fall.
Diabetes profile: Alan Neacappo Diabetes in Eeyou Istchee is at epidemic proportions. Recently the Nation had a chance to talk to Alan Neacappo and his struggle with the disease. EDITORIAL Vine Deloria Jr., 1933-2005 About five years ago, I headed south to be a part of the newly created Indigenous Program at the University of Arizona. As a part of my work there, I became the research/teaching assistant to Vine Deloria, Jr. He would come each winter to Tucson to escape the cold winters in Colorado, and so I would help him run his Advanced Seminar on Treaties each spring semester.
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