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SAGAMOK ANISHINABEK NEWS

New Sagamok War MemorialCommunity honours veterans with memorialPage 9

BiinjiyingAdvertisment and Notifications Pages 4-5, 12-16

Planning and Technical Community Justice Program Page 10

LRE Unit Ariel Survey

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B’boon Giizis 2014Published 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.

Biidaaban Kinoomaagegamik Student examines a new tablet provided by “One Laptop Per Child” and VALE Inc. Story on Page 3 (Photo Credit: Allen Toulouse)

Pet Wellness Clinic a barking successPet Owners attend in record numbersPage 8

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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 January 2014 issue

Submission Deadline: December 19th, 2014

Scheduled Printing: January 9th, 2014

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

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By: Allen Toulouse

Biidaaban Kinoomaagegamik received a donation of educational tablets from the organization “One Laptop per Child.” The tablets are portable, education themed computers with a touch screen interface and numerous programs designed to stimulate a child’s curiousity and problem solving skills. This donation of equipment to the school was made possible by Sagamok’s partnership with VALE, who paid all the expense for the delivery of the seventy tablets to be shared. Rachel and Miranda of “One Laptop Per child, were joined by Katie and Danica of VALE Inc., as they went from classroom to classroom providing children the chance to play with their new tablets.

The tablets are equipped with a variety of features such as audio recorders,cameras and programming which makes them useful as not only a reward for fun but a tool in

education. Many children use tablets at home and it was evident as many of the younger grades were very adept at accessing the many features of their tablets with little needed instruction. Teachers and staff at Biidaaban Kinoomaagegamik are impressed at how little instruction even the youngest of their students required with the devices. Juliet Ozawanimke who works with the Junior Kindergarten class stated, “The kids just pick them up and already know what to do. It is amazing to watch them use these tablets, as we encourage them to help each other, which they do very well. ” Loaded onto the educational tablets are numerous education programs, some of which have been tailored to an aboriginal classroom setting. To ensure that the tablets are not used for just playing video games, they have a program which monitors which apps or programs are used the most and by whom. So if a student claims they have been doing

Biidaabaan Kinoomaagegamik Staff Jason Solomon sets up a Learning Tablet for one of his students.(Photo Credit: Allen Toulouse)

math work but have been in fact playing games the whole time, the tablet will record that time for educators to check.

The students in any grade the tablets were presented took to the devices speedily and no child was playing the same game or challenge. Some were walking about being photographers, some worked on puzzles and others looked into colouring or math games. When using the tablets the students did not isolate themselves, instead going to their neighbours and friends to see what they were playing or if they could help each other with a particularly challenging game. What was evident was that no matter the style of learning a child may need, the tablets can be utilized to meet those needs.

Biidaaban Kinoomaagegamik has adapted to the educational needs of students many times. While a chalk board was once common, newer computer powered SMART boards and computer labs have become the new standard. These tablets are part of the next wave of educational tools to assist not only teachers, but the children who use them. One Laptop Per Child has delivered an effective educational tool for Sagamok Classrooms, and it is through partnership with business companies such as VALE Inc. that this appropriation of technology was possible.

Rachel Ward of One Laptop Per Child and Danica of VALE Inc, provide a tablet demo for a student. (Photo Credit: Allen Toulouse)

Katie of VALE Inc inspets the quality tablets now available at Biidaaban Kinoomaagegamik. (Photo Credit: Allen Toulouse)

Vale Inc. and One Laptop Per Child deliver education tablets to Biidaaban

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The Panels are easily assembled and complete the basement, mainfloor and loft of the housing unit with each sheet.(Photo Credit: Allen Toulouse)

By: Allen Toulouse

Every now and then there is an advancement in technology which can profoundly change the way we do something. Insulated Steel Paneling, is being billed as the next big thing in housing construction. Gary Toulouse, the Director of Sagamok First Nation’s Planning and Technical Services Department certainly believes so, and has organized the construction of a housing unit with Millman’s Insulated Steel Paneling. On the soil of Sagamok First Nation, a great experiment in how homes are built is taking place.

At the work site, the steel panels are laid atop each other, each panel provides the outer wall for both the basement and the housing unit. The pieces are made of a heat retaining foam

insulator, lined with recycled steel, some stand over twenty tall. Representing Millman Industries is, Stephen Mill who is overseeing ISP portion of the construction project. For the project to work Stephen employs the use of a small crane, which lifts the paneling sections and stands each piece, which are then drilled together via carpenters in a scissor lift. Each piece is no more than two feet wide, but with each panel of ISP installed the insulated walls for the basement, main floor and loft are done. The greatest benefit of this style of paneling according to Stephen is, “Insulation for sure, we are creating a thermos. Whatever air you want in there, warm in winter or cool in the summer, it stays in there.” The longevity and mould proof design of the ISP is another selling point Stephen was quick to point out. “The ISP is capable of withstanding a century

The interior will be built by Sagamok Contractors(Photo Credit: Allen Toulouse)

of weather and wear, the steel properties of the outer shell of the paneling makes the ISP virutally mold proofed, unlike traditional building materials.” By using ISP materials some of the biggest issues which have arisen with regards to housing on First Nations are allieviated, particularily mold.

Insulated Steel Panel brings the future of home building to Sagamok

Close up of a Insulated Steel Panel sheet (Photo Credit: Allen Toulouse)

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

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. To date, ESDC has not provided any information or confirmation on the future of the ASETS Agreement funding or programs after this date. ASETS Agreement holders across Canada have been preparing for the sunset of the current agreement, by ensuring that all funds will be fully expended by March 31, 2015, with no carry forward balances remaining.

This means that Sagamok ASETS LDM is working to ensure that all funds are committed before the end of the third quarter (end of December), in order to make final payments during the first two months of the final quarter of the fiscal year (by end of February). Anyone wishing to access funds must do so as soon as possible, as funding is expected to be depleted before December 2014.

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

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Sagamok goes BOW WOW for Pet Wellness Clinic

By: Allen Toulouse

Over 80 pets were treated for rabies and distemper on Sagamok First Nation, during a Pet Wellness Clinic held by the Animal Welfare Foundation, Animal Control Officer Stanford Owl and vets from the East Village Animal Hospital. The Wellness Clinic is part of an Animal welfare stratagem, made possible by Stanford Owl and the Animal Rescue Foundation. Stanford’s goal has been to alleviate the cost and difficulty in treating pets on the Reserve of Sagamok.

This Wellness Clinic made available on site, veterinary services such as vaccinations for rabies and distemper and nail trimming. Pets could also be scheduled for spay and neuter clinic or other necessary surgery at a London Facility. One pet owner at the clinic stated, “This service has been very helpful. By chance my dog was due for a rabies vaccine and my vet is on the island. The weather today is terrible and the roads too icy for my liking. My pet is not a patient at the vet clinic in Espanola, so this was much safer and more

accessible for us.” Accessibility to veterinary service has been commonly cited challenge for Sagamok pet owners. The cost associated with pet care, such as spaying and neutering, rabies shots and travelling off-reserve to find veterinarians dissuades many from actively seeking these necessary services for their pets. With the goal of providing these essential pet services at the door step of Sagamok residents, the community has responded positively, with 80 pets receiving vaccinations and pet care. Animal Control Officer Stanford Owl is pleased with the community response, “ We have had a great turn out here, we definitely broke the record of any previous dog clinic here in Sagamok. We were able to provide low cost pet care and take account for any of the new pets which have been adopted in Sagamok.” With the vaccinations taken care of, the next step in the stratagem is the registrations of pets for mobile spay and neuter clinics. A majority of pets in Sagamok are not spayed or neutered, which results in population booms of dogs, which leads to many conflicts with both feral and aggressive dogs in their heat. Laurie of

Vets from the East Village Animal Hospital examine pets at Sagamok latest Pet Wellness Clinic.(Photo Credit: Allen Toulouse)

Biding the time until their turn. (Photo Credit: Allen Toulouse)

the London, Ontario, based Animal Rescue Foundation elaborated that, “We have helped rehome over three hundred animals from Sagamok, we are currently working on spay and neuter initiatives through the East Village Animal Hospital and Stanford.” Having laid down the ground work, Sagamok can continue on its proactive pet welfare initiative.

Dog control has been a contentious issue within the community of Sagamok. Through partnerships with advocates for animal welfare such the Animal Rescue Foundation, Sagamok has begun to turn the tide of negativity focused on dogs and neglectful pet owners. Statistically, Sagamok had over three hundred animals rehomed thanks to A.R.F., and with the Animal Welfare Clinic four more have been surrendered for an opportunity to a new forever home. For those pets that reside in Sagamok, the vet clinic has been a positive step toward healthier and happier lives. Chi-Meegwetch to Animal Control Officer Stanford Owl and the volunteers of the Animal Rescue Foundation and East Village Animal Hospital, your efforts have made a positive impact upon the pets and their families.

Ernest Jacko and his Bulldog, pug combo Dexter.(Photo Credit: Allen Toulouse)

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By: Allen Toulouse

On this 95th year of Remembrance Day, Sagamok First Nation took the time to not only reflect on those community members who served in the armed forces, but also to unveil a War veteran’s memorial. This war veterans memorial has been on the to do list of the Chief and Council, with many different sites being discussed and designs assessed. However it is in 2014 that all the pieces fell into place and with the expertise of Stone Artisan studios those designs became a reality.

The weather of the day tested the resolve of the attendees, many of whom were youth from the Biidaaban Kinoomaagegamik. The icy winds coming in from Lake Huron, chilled not only the bones but the drums of the Biidaaban school singers, who got early access to the War memorial’s open fire pit to warm their instruments. Ceremonies this year included a prayer by Harvey Owl, songs by the Biidaaban girls and boy singers, role call of Sagamok Veterans by Chief Paul Eshkakogan and “The last post” performed on percushion instrument by Jayden Toulouse. Chief Eshkakogan opened the mic for anyone to recall a veteran who was not on his list, to that call Levi Eshkakogan and Harvey Owl took the mic to speak the names of Louie Southwind(WWI) and Albert Owl (WWII). Closing the ceremony, attendees were invited to take a handful of tobacco and offer it to the flames of the Memorial fire pit. Retiring to the neighbouring Enji Wiiji Gaabwitaadaying Agamik, the attendees were invited to a luncheon. Prior the meal Sagamok’s Chief Executive Officer, Alan Ozawanimke detailed the effort that Stone Artisan Studios put into the memorial. The design’s main feature is the open fire pit, which is made from granite collected from the farthest reaches of the Anishnawbek

Nations historical boundaries. Granite was collected locally and from Wiartown and Toronto, to symbolize the coming together of Anishnawbek people. Solomon King the owner and stone mason of Stone Artisan studios was unable to travel from Toronto due to weather conditions. There is some work that remains to be finished at the site. In spite of these unfinished components, local veteran, Rene Espaniel stated, “It is amazing.” With regards to the memorial Sagamok has erected.

What is most important about this memorial is not its use will be exclusively be for Remembrance day. The memorial is for ceremonial use, and is open to the public. The design of Stone Artisan Studios transcends a memorial as a site fixated on the past, instead it is ever present for community members to interact with. Many of the elders on site

The Memorial site as it currently stands a of November 11, 2014. (Photo Credit: Allen Toulouse)

helped guide their grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins in making their first offerings to the fires of rememberance. The War memorial site marks both the beginning of new customs in our community and the reverance we have for our ancestors who sacrfices both past and present have inspired our community.

Community Members gather at the War Veterans Memorial, to commence the Rememberance day ceremony. (Photo Credit: Allen Toulouse)

Rebecca Toulouse offers tobacco to the Memorial Flame (Photo Credit :Allen Toulouse)

War Veterans Memorial unveiled on Rememberance Day

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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

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By: Tammy Tremblay B.Sc.

On December 2nd, two staff members from the Sagamok Lands, Resources and Environment Unit (LRE) got to see the “bird’s eye view” of Sagamok and parts of the traditional territory. Michelle Toulouse and Tammy Tremblay participated in a helicopter tour hosted by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF).

The MNRF has been consulting with Sagamok, particularly the LRE Unit in regards to the new Forest Management Plan (FMP) for the Spanish Forest. FMP’s are created to ensure the sustainability of a forest on a long term basis (10 years). An FMP identifies how much and where timber harvesting activities will take place, roads that will be constructed and a renewal plan, all while keeping values and environmental impacts in mind.

The purpose of the flight on December 2nd was to take a look at some of the proposed cut blocks that have been identified in the new plan that are in close proximity to Sagamok values, Ritchie Falls Resort and Moosewa Outpost. A demonstration on how moose aerial inventories are conducted was also part of the flight plan. These surveys assist the MNRF on determining the moose population status and trends.

The LRE staff would like to say Chi Miigwetch to our friends/colleagues at the MNRF for the excellent and exciting opportunity, and look forward to future endeavors. Special thanks too Rick Reynen for organizing the flight details; Paul Leale, the forester on-board the flight, and Dan Ireland, the trusty pilot.

LRE Staff Take Flight

Lands Resources and Environment Staff, Michelle Toulouse and Tammy Tremblay (Photo Credit: Tammy Tremblay)

Traditional Healer

Jake Augoneh From Shequandiah First Nation –

Coming to Sagamok Anishnawbek Community Wellness Department

Friday December 12- 2014 9:00 am – 4:00 pm 1 Day Only

To book an appointment – Call Leroy Bennett or Ernestine Bob at 705-865-2171

Please bring your tobacco offering

Do not consume alcohol 4 days before appointment.

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SAGAMOK ANISHNAWBEK COMMUNITY JUSTICE PROGRAMADULT PROBATION SERVICES SCHEDULE

SERVICE OFFERED AT COMMUNITY WELLNESS DEPARTMENTDATE TIME LOCATION

NOVEMBER 10, 24/14 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Consultation Room

DECEMBER 8, 31/14 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Consultation Room

JANUARY 5/15 JANUARY 20/15

9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. To be determined

Please note: 1. *Dates subject to change. Adult Probation Officer will advise clients, Community Justice Program Staff and CWD Receptionist

in advance.2. Community members on Probation must attend their scheduled appointments as given by the Adult Probation Officer.

Failure could result in a breach to abide by Probation Order.3. If for some unforeseen reason or circumstance that you are unable to attend your Probation appointment, please contact the

Adult Probation Officer, Edgar St. Amour at 705-869-2882 or leave a message with the Community Justice Program office at 705-865-2171 ext. 349.

SERVING THE COMMUNITY MEMBERS NEEDS!

REVISED Scheduled September 15, 2014

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.

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An ariel view of Sagamok courtesy of the LRE’s helicopter view.(Photo Credit: Tammy Tremblay)