1

SAGAMOK ANISHINABEK NEWS

In memoriam Reprint of our Interview with Bill SagoPage 11

BiinjiyingYes Program by Sault College Page 3

Community Notifications Pages 2, 4,5, 13-19ASETS Pages 7-9

Community Justice Program Page 10Measles Notice Page 15

Dog Control Page 14Colour Photo Section Back Page

Naabdin Giizis 2015Published Monthly by

Sagamok Anishnawbek

The Sagamok News is available anytime VIA download at Sagamok.ca/newsletters, or read it online at ISSUU.com/sagamok.

Do not forget to SUBSCRIBE TO the “Anish Nabe” Youtube channel for sagamok news interviews with inspirational people and updates from community programs, workshops, forums and announcements.

Family Day got a lot of families out on the ice. Over 140 participants took part in the annual derby. Story on page 13.(Photo Credit: Allen Toulouse)

Biidaaban Classic Hockey TournamentSee Division champs onPage 3

2

SAGAMOK ANISHNAWBEK NEWS

Sagamok Anishnawbek News is a product of the Community Devel-opment and Nation Building Project. A Communications Core Group

formed to respond requesting timely and up to date information of our Administration of Government.

The Sagamok Anishnawbek News first published in June 2004. It will continue monthly information sharing related to Sagamok Anishnawbek

Administration of Government.

PUBLISHING CRITERIA

The Sagamok Anishnawbek News is a monthly publication of the Sag-amok Anishnawbek First Nation. Views expressed are not necessarily the opinion or political position of the First Nation. No portion of this

paper may be reproduced without the written permission of the Sagamok Anishnawbek News Editorial Board.

All contributors will be provided a reply regarding the receiving of their submission. As administrator and editor we reserve the right to edit,

condense, print, reject or delay publication of submissions. Publication of submissions is based upon priority of interest. All contributors must include contact information with their submission. Submissions which include pictures must include information regarding the content of the

photo.

The Sagamok News is offering cash honoraria for article submissions from Community members. All articles must be 250 words or more in

length and relevant to Sagamok Anishnawbek. All articles must be typed or formatted using MS Word and sent to the email address Newsletter@Sagamok.ca or dropped off at the Sagamok Newsletter mailbox in the Band office. The monthly deadline for submissions is the 3rd Friday of each month. A maximum of $100 honoraria per month will be shared

amongst membership contributors. Letters to the editor and all other em-ployee submissions are not applicable to the Community Member news

article Initiative.

Newspaper Working Group: Michelle Toulouse Janet Owl Allen Toulouse Wayne Peltier Laura McMeekin-Clarke Rebecca Toulouse Ezra Owl Amanda Hardisty Mitzi Toulouse Lorna Sinobert Veronica Nashkawa

Production: Sagamok Anishnawbek News

Administration: Allen Toulouse

ADVERTISING & NEW DEADLINES

Deadline for the April 2015 issue

Submission Deadline: March 20th, 2015

Scheduled Printing: April 8th, 2015

SUBMISSION INQUIRIES

Telephone (705) 865-2421 ext 270

Toll Free 1-800-567-2896

Email newsletter@sagamok.ca

Donations Payable to: Sagamok Anishnawbek News

P.O. Box 610, Massey, Ontario , P0P 1P0

3

Biidaaban Team Members: Grant Stonefish, Drake Stonefish, Logan Corbiere, Carson Abitong, Amber Chiblow, Desirae Southwind, Zane Eshkakogan, Tyson Francis, Amara Makadebin, Kiana Corbiere, Draven Abitong, Jacinta Eshkakogan, Gavin Trudeau, Coach – Michael AbitongWritten by: Charlene Owl, Economic Development Assistant

Sault College hosted the YES (Youth Entrepreneurship Skills) Program from February 2 - 20, 2015. The program enabled the successful completion of business plans from youth participants from Sagamok. The students developed sound business cases and strong desires to start a successful small business and self-employment ventures. Since completing their business plans they have also become eligible for a $3,000 micro grant.

Three weeks included the following:

Week One -Business Model & Feasibility

Week Two -Marketing & Operations

Week Three Finances

Through hard work and hours of research, the youth acquired the information for their business idea with the assistance of Sault College Instructors Norm Michele and Dave Barrett. They assisted with any questions and concerns. The group took part in discussions, group work and working individually.

Our last day was celebrated with a luncheon and participants were awarded Sault College Certificates. Congratulations to all of the youth on the successful completion of the program.

“YES Program” by Sault College

Sagamok’s Youth Entrepreneurship Skills Program students work on their business plans for a opportunity to earn a $3000.00 grant.

By: Becky Toulouse

On February 18th, Hockey teams representing Lakeview from M’Chigeeng, Pontiac from Wikwemikong, A.B. Ellis and Scared Heart from Espanola, St Marys from Massey and Biidaaban Kinoomaagegamik engaged in the annual Biidaaban Classic Hockey Tournament. Following over seven hours of hockey games, Sacred Heart, Lakeview and Pontiac emerged the champions of their respective divisions.

Thanks to all sponsors and volunteers, both parents and students who helped make this another successful tournament.

A Championship – Sacred Heart over St Marys Massey 6-2

B Championship – Lakeview over A.B. Ellis 7-1

C Championship – Pontiac over Biidaaban 3-2

All Star Team

Forwards

Kennedy Sintal – Sacred HeartGavin Brown – St MarysCaleb Parks – AB Ellis

Defense

Zane Eshkakogan – BiidaabanNoah Manitowabi – Pontiac

Goalie

Kacey Debassige - Lakeview

Biidaaban Classic Crowns Sacred Heart “A” Champions

4

5

6

Trade Equivalency Assessment

The Ontario College of Trades

What is Trade Equivalency Assessment?

Do your skills, knowledge, and experience match an Ontario apprenticeship? The ASETS LDM can assist you with applying for the Trade Equivalency Assessment (TEA).

If you have work experience and training in a skilled trade from Ontario or another province, territory or country, you may be eligible to have your experience and skills compared to an apprenticeship program in Ontario.

The Trade Equivalency Assessment (TEA) process assesses your skills based on one of the over 150 Ontario apprenticeship programs. If you can demonstrate that you meet all the training requirements of that apprenticeship, you will qualify to apply for certification in your trade.

Is the Trade Equivalency Assessment process right for me?

Experienced Workers from within and outside of Ontario with skills, knowledge, and experience that are equivalent to a Certificate of Apprenticeship in Ontario have the option of applying for equivalency. It is the applicant’s responsibility to provide all required supporting documents to prove equivalency to the training standards. This proof may include detailed letters from past or present employers, job descriptions, and training credentials. Your proof is attached to your application, and the Ontario College of Trades will assess this to the training standards to determine if you qualify for Trade Equivalency. Some trades require a written exam, while others do not.

Further information on the Trade Equivalency Assessment process can be obtained at http://www.collegeoftrades.ca/trade-assessment

Information on Training Standards for your trade can be obtained at http://www.collegeoftrades.ca/training-standards

If you’d like assistance with reviewing your eligibility, you can contact ASETS staff to book an appointment to pre-assess your TEA prospects, by calling (705) 865-2421.

Aboriginal Skills and Employment Training Strategy (ASETS) Post 2015 Update: Agreement Extension

The Aboriginal Skills and Employment Training Strategy (ASETS) is a five year agreement that provides funding through Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) to assist unemployed individuals with accessing training opportunities to secure full time employment. Sagamok Anishnawbek ASETS LDM is a sub-agreement to the North Shore Tribal Council ASETS Agreement.

The current five year agreement expires on March 31, 2015. In November 2014, ASETS Sagamok received notification that the current agreement will receive a one year extension, and will therefore have opportunity to continue to operate under the current agreement parameters until March 2016. This extension period will allow for Employment and Social Development Canada to conduct a comprehensive review the ASET Strategy, and determine the future of ASETS funding post 2016.

In January 2015, ASETS Sagamok completed and submitted Annual Operations and Expenditure plans to ensure the continued provision of services to the Sagamok Community from April 2015 to March 2016.

If you have any questions, or would like to schedule an appointment to discuss your training options, please contact ASETS Sagamok at (705) 865-2421.

Sagamok Anishnawbek Aboriginal Skills and Employment Training Strategy

Summer Student Program

Are you an employer looking for help with hiring a summer student?

ASETS Sagamok may be able to assist you with employing a student for summer work. We provide funding assistance to employers who are interested in hiring a Sagamok member. You could be eligible to receive a wage subsidy of 75% to 100% of minimum wage rate to employ a member of Sagamok Anishnawbek.

Are you a Sagamok member student seeking career related summer work experience?

ASETS Sagamok may be able to assist you with securing that awesome summer job you’ve been dreaming of by subsidizing your wages directly to an employer.

For more information and to obtain an application, contact ASETS Sagamok at (705) 865-2421 or visit http://www.sagamok.ca/aboriginal-skills-and-employment-training-strategy

Applications are due by April 15, 2015

Important Notice to Housing ApplicantsDecline of Housing Units - A briefing paper has been presented to the Housing Committee on June 10, 2014 on the decline of Housing Offers, Currently a tenant has 5 working days to respond to offers. After some discussion on the briefing paper the following recommendation was made for inclusion in the Housing Policy on Decline of offers.

MOTION to accept the following for inclusion in the Housing Policy regarding Decline of Offer(s) “That a band member(s) has qualified for a housing unit and the housing committee has approved the housing allocation, and whereas in the case of non-acceptance (decline, refusal) by the applicant(s) that application shall be removed from the Waiting List for a period of one year”

Consideration shall be given to applicants(s) where personal and family circumstances have changed within the ineligibility period. Documentation of request shall be requested to substantiate the housing request. Final decision shall be the housing committee membership.Moved by:Cecil Toulouse

Seconded by:Pamela Keysis

CARRIED

Furthermore, It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that their application remains active. Applications are kept on file for one year.

If you require further, information please contact the housing department.

7

Anishnawbek Skills and Employment Strategy

Aboriginal Fisheries Technician InternAnishinabek / Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre

The A/OFRC is seeking a suitable candidate to participate in a one year comprehensive training program in the field of Fisheries Assessment and Management being delivered to the Anishinabek Nation as represented by the Union of Ontario Indians (UOI).

Job Description: The intern will receive training in fisheries assessment and management which will include project design, field techniques, data summary and analysis, and report writing. The intern will work on a daily basis with an experienced staff mentor, while being given the opportunity to acquire supervisory experience. Extensive field work will expose the intern to a variety of fisheries issues being dealt with by First Nation communities and the state-of-the-art scientific techniques used to address these issues. There may be opportunities to work in natural resource fields other than fisheries, depending on the project portfolio under management by the A/OFRC during the intern’s tenure.

Rate: $20/hr

Location: The position is based in North Bay, Ontario. It is not A/OFRC policy to provide assistance with the costs of relocation. It will be the responsibility of the successful candidate to arrange accommodations in North Bay.

Eligibility: Graduated from an accredited college or university within the last three years, in a post-secondary degree or diploma program. The position must provide the intern with first-time employment in his or her field of study (exclusive of summer or part-time employment during the term of study).

Qualifications: The ideal candidate will have:• A keen interest in natural resources management and dedication to the principles of

conservation• Understanding of fisheries issues facing communities within the Anishinabek Nation• Good oral and written communication skills as well as good interpersonal skills• Computer literacy• Ability to work in inclement weather and in harsh conditions• Experience with various types of watercraft and must be comfortable with working on all

sizes of waterbodies• A commitment to safe work practices• Flexibility to be away from home for extended periods• Membership in a First Nation represented by the Anishinabek Nation: Union of Ontario

Indians

Application Deadline: 11 March, 2015

Please mail applications to: A/OFRC, 755 Wallace Rd., Unit #5, North Bay, Ontario, P1A 0E7; or electronically to pmeisenheimer@aofrc.org.

THIS OPPORTUNITY IS PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY:

Applying For a Social Insurance Number

The Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a nine-digit number that you need to work in Canada or to have access to government programs and benefits. All of the programs offered through the Aboriginal Skills and Employment Training Strategy (ASETS) as administered through the Sagamok Anishnawbek Education Unit require the client to have a SIN Number. There is no fee to apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN).

If you reside in Canada, you should apply in-person at a Service Canada point of service. When applying in-person, you do not have to complete an application form nor do you have to mail your original proof-of-identity documents. Simply gather the documents you need and take them to the nearest Service Canada point of service office. You can obtain your SIN in less than 15 minutes and do not need to part with your original proof of identity documents.

Requirements

You need to provide a primary document to apply for a SIN. A primary document is an official document that proves your identity and status in Canada. Service Canada requires seeing an original of your primary document. If the name on this document is different from the name you currently use, you will also need to provide a supporting document verifying your legal name change. Your supporting document must be an original, written in English or French. REMEMBER: Photocopies are not accepted.

The following are considered to be Primary Canadian Citizen proof-of-identity documents:

A certificate of birth or birth certificate issued by the vital statistics agency in the province or territory where you were born (Note: Quebec proof-of-birth documents issued prior to 1994 are not accepted);

Certificate of Canadian Citizenship issued by Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC); or

Certificate of Registration of Birth Abroad issued by CIC.

Individuals registered with Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada (AANDC), formerly Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC), need to provide the following original documents if they want their status on the Social Insurance Register indicated as “Status Indian”:

Born in Canada: one of the documents identified in section Canadian Citizens above and a Certificate of Indian Status issued by INAC or AANDC; or

Born outside Canada: birth certificate issued by a state authority from your country of birth and a Certificate of Indian Status issued by INAC or AANDC.

Additional documents are required for representatives, Parents or legal guardians applying on behalf of a minor child.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

ONLINE www.servicecanada.gc.ca,

CALL 1-800-206-7218 (Select option “3”). Agents are available Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Canadian Local Time, except on statutory holidays. If you have a hearing or speech impairment and use a teletypewriter (TTY), call 1-800-926-9105.

VISIT a Service Canada Centre. Sagamok Area Local Service Canada Office is located in Espanola at 721 Centre Street, Suite 2, Espanola, Ontario. Hours are Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 4:00pm. For other office locations, you can find the Centre nearest you by visiting the Service Canada Web site or by calling 1-800-O-Canada (1-800-622-6232).

8

Aboriginal Strategic Employment TSGetting Your Foot in the Door Part 1: Job Search TechniquesAre you currently looking for work and feeling overwhelmed by process? Finding work can certainly feel like a daunting task. There are many ways to undergo job searching, and some of them may surprise you. Let’s review some of the ways that can be effective in searching for work.

Searching Online

Thanks to the internet, we live in a time called the information age. You can access information on just about anything on the World Wide Web. For many people, this is the first place they go to when searching for employment. Here are some online resources to help with your job searching:

Government Job Banks

Government of Canada National Job Bank: www.jobbank.gc.ca

Provincial Government Jobs: www.gojobs.gov.on.ca/jobs.aspx

Federal Government Jobs: http://jobs-emplois.gc.ca/index-eng.htm

General Job Banks

www.wowjobs.ca

www.indeed.ca

www.monster.ca

www.workopolis.com

Aboriginal Specific Job Info:

http://nationtalk.ca/jobs/

www.aboriginalcareers.ca

www.inclusionnetwork.ca/aboriginal-jobs/index.htm

The Hidden Job Market

ASETS Department also has a Job Board available that is updated daily with a variety of employment opportunities to assist you in finding employment. The job board consists of local opportunities, and may also include employment from hidden job markets. “Hidden Job Market” consists of jobs that are posted in local communities and are shared amongst community resources. Often, positions with the local hidden job market, are not posted on public job banks. This is why it is a good practice to visit local job boards often, while you are job searching.

Networking

It may also be useful to utilize social media to assist with your job search. Sites such as LinkedIn allow you to create a profile that will then match you up with opportunities in your field.

Word of mouth networking is another important and effective method of job searching. Asking friends, family, acquaintances who are employed if they know of any openings, or if their companies are hiring, is always a useful method of hearing about jobs that are not posted, or that may be upcoming. Creating networking cards allows you to promote your skills to market yourself in the job market.

For assistance with any of these, please visit the ASETS office, located at the Sagamok Multi-Education Centre.

Getting Your Foot in the Door Part 2: Creating Effective Resumes

Do you feel like you are sending out resume after resume and not getting any response? Are you finding it difficult to secure a job that you are really interested in, even though you feel you have the skills and experience the employer is looking for? It could be a result of your resume.

Job hunting has a few steps involved before you can win the prize of employment. Getting an interview based on your resume is the first step. The goal of the resume is to get you in the door, but that alone does not usually get you the job. On average, you only get about 10 seconds of attention from the person screening your resume. They are quickly scanning for relevant information to determine if they are going to consider you for employment. Your resume is where you make this vital first impression.

Every resume should match the job and the culture of the company you are sending it to. Many people are still creating a “one size fits all” resume, but in reality, you should have a variety of resumes available for each field that you are looking into for employment. You should target your objective and highlights to be specific for each job you apply to. A targeted resume is much stronger than a generic resume.

Standard Resume Practices

There are some general rules that should be followed for any resume that you create. Always start with your objective and end with your references, everything in between can be moved around, but your highlight should also be near the beginning – remember, if they can’t clearly see why they should call you within the first 10 seconds of looking at your resume, you could be passed over.

Here are some general Do’s and Don’ts for creating resumes:

Do

Type your resume

Put name and contact info noticeably at the top

Create a professional sounding email address to use

Choose fonts that are consistent and easy to read

Choose a clean and simple paper type

Use Spelling and Grammar check tools

Do Not

Scratch things out to make changes or write over

Submit a resume with outdated contact info

Include personal info like SIN #, Date of Birth, Photos

Overuse bold, italics, or colour in the bodies of sections

Include graphics (unless applying for an artistic position)

Choosing Resume Format

You should select a resume format that will ensure that you get the right points across. There are three main formats worth considering when developing your resumes, and each has a specific purpose for highlighting relevant points.

Continued on next page

9

1.Chronological Format

The chronological resume is the most widely used and is accepted as a generally standard format. It works brilliantly when you have stayed consistent in your career. As long as the job you are applying for is in the same field, the full chronology will be relevant to the employer, as it will highlight and focus on your relevant experience.

Your employment history is actually in reverse chronological order and your current or most recent position will be listed first. The chronological resume doesn’t work well when you have gaps in your employment history, or when you have shifted industries often, as it can expose weak points. Standard headings are as follows:

•Objective – What is the specific purpose for sending your resume (ie. To obtain a position as an AZ Driver)

•Highlight of Qualifications – what are the top 3-5 important facts that make you the best candidate

•Experience – what is your work experience starting with the most recent

•Education – what education and/or certificates do you possess starting with the most recently obtained

•References – usually three people who can attest to your previous work

2.Functional Format

The functional format should be used when you want to draw attention away from your work experience to focus on what you can do (skills and core competencies you have) and what your achievements are. This could be due to a long or short work history, employment gaps, etc. This format is used by graduates, people seeking to change their career, and anyone with employment gaps that don’t add value to what they are applying for. If you are looking to change industries, make sure to focus on transferable skills such as communication, working with numbers, analyzing problems to determine possible solutions, etc. Standard headings are as follows:

•Objective

•Accomplishments – what noteworthy accomplishments do you have that are relevant to the work

•Capabilities – what are the skills and competencies you want to highlight

•Employment History – listing of previous work in reverse chronological order

•Education

•References

3.The Combined Format

The combination format is exactly what it sounds like. It combines both of the previous formats to give you the best features from the functional resume with the easy to read layout of the chronological format.

This format could benefit someone who is changing careers and has relevant skills for the new field, wants to highlight more skills than the work experience section allows for, or who wants to sell their competencies and downplay gaps in work history. Standard headings are as follows:

•Objective

•Highlight of Qualifications / Accomplishments

•Experience

•Education

•References

Creating great resumes is always a worthy investment of your time. After all that effort, you will definitely want to keep an electronic version. USB sticks are useful, but can be lost, so it is good practice to email your resumes to yourself. This allows you the ability to access your resumes from any computer with internet access, so you will always have one on hand for quicker and easier updating. You never know when that perfect job will come along or when you’ll need to submit your resume in a pinch.

If you would like help with creating your resumes, you can visit a local employment office for assistance. In Sagamok, ASETS staff are available to help you with creating your winning resume. To make an appointment, call us at (705) 865-2421, ext. 242 to start your intake.

The Hidden Job Market

ASETS Department also has a Job Board available that is updated daily with a variety of employment opportunities to assist you in finding employment. The job board consists of local opportunities, and may also include employment from hidden job markets. “Hidden Job Market” consists of jobs that are posted in local communities and are shared amongst community resources. Often, positions with the local hidden job market, are not posted on public job banks. This is why it is a good practice to visit local job boards often, while you are job searching.

Networking

It may also be useful to utilize social media to assist with your job search. Sites such as LinkedIn allow you to create a profile that will then match you up with opportunities in your field.

Word of mouth networking is another important and effective method of job searching. Asking friends, family, acquaintances who are employed if they know of any openings, or if their companies are hiring, is always a useful method of hearing about jobs that are not posted, or that may be upcoming. Creating networking cards allows you to promote your skills to market yourself in the job market.

For assistance with any of these, please visit the ASETS office, located at the Sagamok Multi-Education Centre.

10

DUTY TO REPORTKids shouldn’t have to live with abuse. Reporting suspected child abuse and neglect is everyone’s

responsibility. To learn more about child abuse and neglect, how to recognize it and what happens

when you call a children’s aid society, visit www.useyourvoice.ca. Use your voice. Report your

suspicions of child abuse and neglect to your local Children’s Aid Society at 705-566-3113.

COMMUNITY JUSTICE PROGRAMMIWDOODAA MINO MAADIZIWIN DIVERSION PROGRAM

MISSIONThe community Justice Program will support offenders, families and victims to restore balance and harmony in relationships as they work towards healing; assist offenders in reintegration into the community; instill pride in their Anishnawbek identity; create community awareness of justice issues through education; and work together

with other programs and services to improve the quality of life for all community members

Eligibility

• Youth ages 12-17, Adults 18+, member or resident of Sagamok Anishnawbek who normally resides in Sagamok, individual has agreed and consented to voluntary participation in the diversion program, individual has consulted with legal counsel

Justice Committee

Guided by the sacred teachings of the seven grandfathers, the Justice committee consists of Sagamok Anishnawbek community members who promote decision by consensus, equality, balance and unity.

Length of Program

• The length of the program is determined by two factors.

• Case by case basis and the time given to the client to complete conditions as outlined in the Healing and Wellness Plan

• Address causes of the offending behaviour

The needs of the victim(s) will be adequately addressed

• The safety and harmony of the community will be enhanced through the use of a community based approach

• Community ownership and responsibility

• Reduced charge or withdrawal of charge

11

Bill Sago in a photo taken June 2010.

(Photo Credit: Allen Toulouse)

In reflection, an interview with Bill Sago

In memory of local artist Bill Sago, we have reprinted our June 2010 interview with him.

AT: Allen Toulouse

BS: Bill Sago

AT: How long have you been an artist?

BS: All through school I did drawings, sketches and doodles. I owe it all to my teacher, Judith Dylan. She saw me drawing and said “Bill have you ever painted?” I said, “No, I have never painted.” She told me to try it out and ever since then I have been painting. She was the first one to believe in me.

AT: As an artist you can make whatever you want, but what drew to the style you use?

BS: I do not know, I just start painting and that is that. I can already see the painting before I even put it on paper. I just think for a minute and that is how it comes out. It is just something that comes out on the paper. Painting animals and scenery from a First Nations view it is what we are close to. It is my connection.

AT: You do more then paint though.

BS: My mother did leather work, mitts and necklaces. Growing up with her crafts it was just natural that I got into it. Helping mom with the leather and beads, just escalated when I took up painting.

AT: Is the Powwow trail the best venue for getting your work out to the public?

BS: Well, that is basically the best thing about the Powwow, you are where everything is. There is artwork and you will see lots of artists. It is like a big competition, there are a few artists I know who did these big canvas paintings. Through my years I have got my little following and they have

collections of my stuff from over the years. They say “I bought that way back!” and I will be humbled.

AT: Any concerns that you may get type casted as an artist?

BS: All artists have their own basic style and I have had people question why I do not do some stuff like another guy. There are certain things I will paint and something other people paint , we can be similar but there is always something in it that makes it our own.

I visited a Medicine Man in my late twenties and something just told me to go see him. He sits me down and told me, “I knew you would be coming, I was expecting you. You do art work and are an artist.” Never met this guy before and knows where I was from, he says I live along the river. He tells me to close my eyes and told me to relax. Next thing you know I felt as though I was on a cliff, I am trying to think how am I here? He tells me not to fear and I fall forward and I was way up. He tells me “I am going to show you something.” There it is a tiny speck, a tiny orange flame and he tells me to go over there. I went straight for it and as I get there he says “Can you see what that is?” It was me! I was sitting by the fire. He asks me, “What are you doing?” I am painting! He says “That is what you are meant to do. Remember it is not about the money, you will gain so much more if every once and while you give a piece of art work away. Do something to give back. You will know it will take you further and gain more than you ever will if it is about the money. I open my eyes and we are back in the house. He says “You remember what I told you. There will be time you will understand.”

That is what I have been doing ever since, every now and then I just give a piece of art work away.

AT: Kind of like karma?

BS: Yeah!

AT: When you complete an artwork do you admire what you have done?

BS: To me I just paint, I do not feel like I make masterpieces. This is my escape, once I begin painting it takes me to a place where I am totally relaxed and when I am finished, I will look at it and think that is nice and put it aside. Someone else may enjoy it more.

Now, I can look at other people’s artwork and be amazed and say “Wow, now that is some great work!” Yet I cannot see that with my stuff. I feel good when I am painting, but when I am done that is that.

AT: Are there any artists you admire?

BS: I guess I love the way Blake Debassigae does his stuff, he is from M’Chigeeng he uses a lot of bright colours, I love the way he does his. Gordon Fiddler too, he has a lot of nice pieces.

AT: That is a lot of local talent.

BS: People always question how I do my trees, I always tell them I was born in Little Current and I have a connection with there. Every time I do a little island with the trees, when you are getting into Little Current you see those islands with the trees and that is where I get my inspiration for my trees. It is a common question and I tell them I got it from the Island. My mom always told me I had a lot of cousins on the island and that is where Grandpa was from. Born up there but lived here all my life. So I tell them when you go to Little Current, look at the Island and you will see where my connection is.

One thing I wish we had would be someplace where we could showcase our artwork. I meet a lot of people and they are surprised that I paint. It is probably a good fifty percent of the community that does not know that I paint. Like my other painters here on Sagamok, we have no place here on Sagmok to showcase our talent.

I sometimes get caught where I can’t paint. You have to have the right frame of mind and if something is bothering me I can’t paint. My wife, she knows me well and when she knows something is bothering me she will come over and ask, “What is wrong?” I will say, “Well I do not know, I am just thinking about things.” Then she goes “Well, stop thinking and start painting.”

12

13

14

By: Becky Toulouse

Seven students from Biidaaban Kinoomaagegmik recently had the opportunity to attend the First Nations Metis and Inuit Learning and Leadership Conference hosted by Tim Hortons Camp in Parry Sound. Students spent four days with participants from as far north as Fort Albany and Attiwapiskat and as far west as Batchewana.

The 2014-15 First Nation, Métis and Inuit Learning and Leadership Conference focused on developing confidence, self-esteem, and leadership skills to empower participants to be more engaged in their school community and education. The conference incorporated First Nation, Métis and Inuit cultures, histories and perspectives that reflect the student participant’s background.

Students participated in workshops including Anishnaabemowin Language, drumming, dancing, Inuit art, cultural teachings, improv drama and outdoor initiatives.

Participants, chaperons and presenters shared in laughter, fun and learning in a beautiful setting around Lake Lorimer and Tim Hortons camp facilities.

Biidaaban Students Attend First Nation, Metis and Inuit Learning and Leadership Conference

Left to Right: Teddy Trudeau, Andrew Smith, Liam Bennett, Darius Bennett, Landee Kokoko, Felicity Southwind and Ashley Soutwind-Holmes

Thirty Dog houses donated to Sagamok on behalf of IFAW, Habitat for Humanity and Volunteers,

Dog Control Officer Sanford Owl, carries one of thirty Dog houses that have been donated by the Internal Fund for Animal Welfare and Habitat for Humanity (Photo Credit: Allen Toulouse)

By: Allen Toulouse

Thirty dog houses assembled by students of the College Heights Secondary School in Guelph, Ontario have made their way to Sagamok First Nation. The houses were built with aid from the International Fund for Animal Welfare and Habitat for Humanity. Stanford Owl was on hand to deliver some of the houses with the remainder awaiting pick up at Toulouse Grocery and Gas Bar.

The dog houses could not have arrived at a more perfect time. Temperatures for that week had descended to minus 32 with a wind chill. In spite of fur coats and the legendary reputation of some breeds, dogs can die from exposure, especially in a winter as consistently cold as this year’s. Diane Porretti was one of the first to receive a dog house and on the topic said, “ It is fantastic! They did an excellent job and must be congratulated for helping out.”

A week following the arrival of the dog house Diane is pleased to say the home is a wonder for her pets. The dog house is often occupied by not only her dog but other roving rovers. Chi-Meegwetch on behalf of the families of Sagamok to our Animal Control Officer Stanford Owl, our friends in the College Heights Secondary School, Habitat for Humanity and the International Fund for Animal Welfare.

15

Public Health Notice: Measles

Why you should take note

Cases of measles have been reported in Canada. Measles is relatively rare in Canada thanks to high immunization rates across the country. However, Canada will continue to see measles cases related to travel to countries where measles is endemic or there are large outbreaks.

Additionally, the United States is reporting a multi-state outbreak of measles related to an amusement park in California, which started in December 2014. Related cases have since been reported in other states and in Mexico.

Laboratory testing has shown that some of the Canadian cases are related to the strain circulating in the United States while others are not.

Measles is a very contagious disease, characterized by a red blotchy rash, and can be very serious, commonly causing diarrhea and pneumonia, and in rarer cases encephalitis and death. It spreads easily through close contact with an infected person.

Measles affects all age groups and can be prevented by a vaccine. Canada has a rigorous scientific review process in place to ensure vaccines are safe and effective in preventing the diseases they target. More information on measles is available on our web site.

Risk to Canadians

If you have received two doses of measles-containing vaccine, or if you have been infected with the measles virus before, then you are at very low risk of catching the disease.

If you have not been vaccinated and have never had the illness, then you are at risk of infection if you come in contact with someone infected with the virus.

A person can also be susceptible if they have a weakened immune system due to an underlying medical condition. Children who are less than one year of age are also susceptible to more severe disease. Immunization of others helps to protect these vulnerable populations.

How to avoid getting measles

The best protection against measles is vaccination with two doses of measles-containing vaccine.

The Public Health Agency of Canada reminds Canadians, especially travelers, to make sure their measles vaccinations are up to date. The first dosage of measles-containing vaccine is typically administered at 12 months of age. Measles vaccine can be given to children as early as six months of age if they are traveling to countries where measles is widely circulating or live in a community where many measles cases are occurring. If a measles vaccine is given to a child less than 12 months old, another dose should be given soon after their first birthday. For children between the ages of 6 months and 12 months who have had direct exposure to a measles case, the preventative use of immunoglobulin within six days is recommended.

If you have recently traveled and you develop symptoms similar to measles when you return to Canada, you should see a health care provider. Describe your symptoms over the phone before your appointment, so that they can arrange to see you without exposing others to measles.

Measles is a highly infectious disease characterized by the following

Fever

Runny nose

Drowsiness

Irritability

Red eyes/sensitivity to light

Small white spots on the inside of the mouth and throat

Red blotchy rash that starts on the face three to seven days after the start of the symptoms and then progresses down the body.

There is no specific treatment for measles. Symptoms are usually treated with medication to reduce fever and fluids. Most people fully recover.

Travel information

The Public Health Agency of Canada is not advising any travel restrictions related to measles at this time; however a Travel Health Notice has been posted to provide recommendations to Canadian travelers, including information on countries where measles is occurring.

What the Public Health Agency of Canada is doing

The Public Health Agency of Canada conducts routine surveillance of measles cases in Canada and is currently working with provincial and territorial authorities to monitor measles cases in Canada. The Agency recommends that all Canadians ensure their vaccinations are up to date. Additionally, travelers should be aware of the risks and reduce the chance of getting sick while traveling by keeping all immunizations up to date.

More information

General information on measles

Travel Health Notice

Media Contact

Public Health Agency of Canada Media Relations (613) 957-2983

Date Modified: 2015-02-17

From the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Website at:

http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/phn-asp/2015/meas-roug-eng.php

16

Family Bowling

Thursday, Mar. 19Free!Free!Free!

Transportation Provided12pm to 3pm

(pick up/drop off 11:30am at CWD, 3:30pm at CWD)30 participants max

To sign up go to CWD and write all names on the sign up

sheet!

17

Annual Family Day Fishing Derby nets good times.

First Place winner Theodore with his First Place Prize of $500 for his catch of 3lbs 8oz.

By: Allen Toulouse

Over 146 participants took part in the fishing derby, which guaranteed prizes for attendees of all ages. Congratulations to prize winners Mikey Toulouse, Layton Eshkakogan, Sasha Assinewe and Theodore Eshkakogan.

Toys for youth were given away following the dispersal of cash prizes. Everybody walked away a winner at this year’s Family Day fishing derby. Chi meegwetch to all the staff involved in the preparation and operation of this year’s Family Day Fishing Derby.

Join the Sagamok Card Club and enjoy some recreational card games like Euchre, Crib, Yahtzee and more. Music, laughs and social time with friends and

family are all added bonuses!!!

When: 3rd Wednesday of each month 1Pm-3Pm (*some exceptions*) Starting Apr. 15, 2015

Don’t Know how to play, come and learn! No Experience Necessary!

Cost: FREE

Where: Dinning Room at the Sagamok Elder’s Eagle Lodge

Who: Individuals 55+/self-referred individuals seeking opportunities for more social activity

Assistance with transportation can be arranged

with calls in advance TO REGISTER CONTACT: Delma Toulouse— Rehab Assistant

phone: 705-865-2926 (organized by the Delma Toulouse and Laura McMeekin-Clarke from the Sagamok Community Wellness Depart.)

18

19

©2013 OverDrive, Inc.

ENJOY eBooks& audiobookson your computer, phone, tablet or iPod®.

ENJOY eBooks

SAGAMOK PUBLIC LIBRARY 705-865-2421 EXT 283

Earth Hour Lights Off Event

March 28, 2015

8:30pm – 9:30pm

**participate by turning off your non-essential lights for one hour as a symbol of commitment to

Mother Earth**

20

Top: Darryl Abitong presents his catch for judging at the Family Day Fishing Derby

Below: Snowmobilers were in full force at the Family Day Fishing Derby, great to see everyone with their helmets on!

Top:Biidaaban Goalie Grant Stonefish is set to put the glove to Pontiac’s puck.

(Photo Credit: Allen Toulouse)

Above: Biidaaban’s Captain slips a puck past Pontiac’s goalie.

Below: Fist bumps for a well played game !