What: Indigenous Celebration Circle
How: Worship the Creator in dance, song, and story.
Where: Friendship Centre, 11205-101 St
When: Sunday, December 28, 2008, 7:00 pm
(Last Sunday of the month: 2009: Jan 25, Feb.22, Mar.29, April 26, May 31, June 28
Why: * "But an hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for such people the Father seeks to be His worshipers. "God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth."
Excellent Aboriginal (Indigenous) Christian music will be featured.
Info: Sharon: 780-456-3774. You don't have to be Aboriginal to atend.
* John 4:23-25 (New American Standard Bible)
Monday, December 22, 2008
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Naomi McIlwraith, writer, poet, educator, editor, essayist, and creative writing instructor
The Stanley Milner Library will host Naomi McIlwraith
1:30 on Sunday, November 30th.
Naomi holds a Masters Degree in English and she currently teaches in the Faculty of Native Studies, University of Alberta while managing a research project.
She is a writer, poet, educator, editor, essayist, and creative writing instructor.
1:30 on Sunday, November 30th.
Naomi holds a Masters Degree in English and she currently teaches in the Faculty of Native Studies, University of Alberta while managing a research project.
She is a writer, poet, educator, editor, essayist, and creative writing instructor.
Edmonton Métis Locals, Meeting & Christmas Party
“Edmonton Métis Council” Meeting & Christmas Party
The Edmonton Métis Locals are hosting a community town hall meeting on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2008 @ Canadian Native Friendship Centre, 11205 – 101 Street At 1 p.m.
The meeting will be followed by a Christmas Social, 4 p.m. which includes:
Pot Luck Supper - Fun for the family
Musical Métis Christmas sponsored by Alberta Association of Aboriginal Music & Sun & Moon Visionaries Aboriginal Artisan Society
Open Jam Session for anyone wanting to share their Christmas Music
Everyone is Welcome For More Information call Melanie @ 780 944-9288
Sponsored by: Edmonton Métis Central Local, Edmonton Métis Local #2085, & Edmonton Métis Local #1886; Alberta Association of Aboriginal Music and Sun & Moon Visionaries Aboriginal Artisan Society. We would also like to thank the Canadian Native Friendship Centre for donating their facility.
Sent by: Melanie Omeniho, Chief Administrative Officer, Métis Opportunity Inc., 11724 - 95 Street, Edmonton, AB T5G 1L9, p. 780 944-9288, f. 780 455-5546, e. momeniho@telus.net
The Edmonton Métis Locals are hosting a community town hall meeting on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2008 @ Canadian Native Friendship Centre, 11205 – 101 Street At 1 p.m.
The meeting will be followed by a Christmas Social, 4 p.m. which includes:
Pot Luck Supper - Fun for the family
Musical Métis Christmas sponsored by Alberta Association of Aboriginal Music & Sun & Moon Visionaries Aboriginal Artisan Society
Open Jam Session for anyone wanting to share their Christmas Music
Everyone is Welcome For More Information call Melanie @ 780 944-9288
Sponsored by: Edmonton Métis Central Local, Edmonton Métis Local #2085, & Edmonton Métis Local #1886; Alberta Association of Aboriginal Music and Sun & Moon Visionaries Aboriginal Artisan Society. We would also like to thank the Canadian Native Friendship Centre for donating their facility.
Sent by: Melanie Omeniho, Chief Administrative Officer, Métis Opportunity Inc., 11724 - 95 Street, Edmonton, AB T5G 1L9, p. 780 944-9288, f. 780 455-5546, e. momeniho@telus.net
Monday, November 17, 2008
Métis Nation Anthem
A nation that stops singing its anthem is doomed.
Métis Nation Anthem
In the forest on the river, and across the western plain,
As the white man journeyed westward, to the land of Indian.
A new race was created, a new nation rose up strong.
Hardship as its destiny, and its curse to not belong.
In the land from which they came, in the land they helped to build.
They found themselves the alien, found their vision unfulfilled.
And despite their valiant effort, to defend what they believe.
When at last the battle ended, they were only left to grieve.
We are proud to be Métis, watch our Nation rise again.
Never more forgotten people, we’re the true Canadian.
From Across the plain they traveled, from Red River to the Peace.
Looking for their homeland, that would help them to replace
All the land that had been taken, and the dreams that had been dashed.
Their brave heroes now called traitors, and courageous deeds now past.
But their spirit was not broken, and their dreams never died.
Their determination strengthened even while the people cried,
As they waited for the battle, that would end their years of pain.
And the final bloodless battle, when the Nation rose again.
We are proud to be Métis, watch a Nation rise again.
Never more forgotten people, we’re the true Canadian.
For this newest generation, and the future ones to come.
With the past to motivate us, it will help to keep us strong.
As we build the Métis Nation, as we watch it rise again,
Our past lost it’s motivation, to inspire our future gain.
We are proud to be Métis, watch a Nation rise again.
Never more forgotten people, we’re the true Canadian.
We are proud to be Métis, watch a Nation rise again.
Never more forgotten people, we’re the true Canadian.
Métis Nation Anthem
In the forest on the river, and across the western plain,
As the white man journeyed westward, to the land of Indian.
A new race was created, a new nation rose up strong.
Hardship as its destiny, and its curse to not belong.
In the land from which they came, in the land they helped to build.
They found themselves the alien, found their vision unfulfilled.
And despite their valiant effort, to defend what they believe.
When at last the battle ended, they were only left to grieve.
We are proud to be Métis, watch our Nation rise again.
Never more forgotten people, we’re the true Canadian.
From Across the plain they traveled, from Red River to the Peace.
Looking for their homeland, that would help them to replace
All the land that had been taken, and the dreams that had been dashed.
Their brave heroes now called traitors, and courageous deeds now past.
But their spirit was not broken, and their dreams never died.
Their determination strengthened even while the people cried,
As they waited for the battle, that would end their years of pain.
And the final bloodless battle, when the Nation rose again.
We are proud to be Métis, watch a Nation rise again.
Never more forgotten people, we’re the true Canadian.
For this newest generation, and the future ones to come.
With the past to motivate us, it will help to keep us strong.
As we build the Métis Nation, as we watch it rise again,
Our past lost it’s motivation, to inspire our future gain.
We are proud to be Métis, watch a Nation rise again.
Never more forgotten people, we’re the true Canadian.
We are proud to be Métis, watch a Nation rise again.
Never more forgotten people, we’re the true Canadian.
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Indigenous Celebration
Indigenous Celebration
A safe place to express worship to the Creator
Sunday, November 23, 7:00 pm Friendship Centre, 11205-101 St
Worship to the Creator in an Indigenous/Aboriginal way.
If you have questions about cultural issues relating to faith and worship this is the place to come.
Info: Sharon: 780-456-3774
Excellent Aboriginal (Indigenous) Christian music will be featured.
A safe place to express worship to the Creator
Sunday, November 23, 7:00 pm Friendship Centre, 11205-101 St
Worship to the Creator in an Indigenous/Aboriginal way.
If you have questions about cultural issues relating to faith and worship this is the place to come.
Info: Sharon: 780-456-3774
Excellent Aboriginal (Indigenous) Christian music will be featured.
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Gunn Local Meeting and Christmas Party
Gunn Local Council #55
Meeting and Christmas Party
Gunn Community Hall
December 7, Sunday, 2008
Meeting 1 - 2 pm
Christmas Party 2 - 5 pm
Pot Luck Dinner
Gifts for children ages 12 and under.
50/50 draw, doorprizes and more.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Provincial Council Meeting
NOTICE: Provincial Council Meeting
Thursday November 13, 9:00 am
Head Office, main floor boardroom.
Any member can attend but not vote or participate.
Thursday November 13, 9:00 am
Head Office, main floor boardroom.
Any member can attend but not vote or participate.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Open Invitation to Métis people living in Edmonton
A meeting to discuss the formation of an Edmonton Métis Council will be held Saturday, November 1, 2008.
Place: Amiskwaciy Academy School, 101 Airport Road, Edmonton. The school is located by the municipal airport.
Time: Noon to 4 p.m. A light lunch will be provided, free parking.
Through relationship building and partnerships we are more able to access resources.
Invite your friends and family to be part of a council that represents your interests, priorities and issues.
For more information, please call Melanie at 780 944-9288, Lyle at 780 910-3626 or Robert Lee at 780 455-2200.
It is not necessary to have a membership with the Métis Nation of Alberta or to have been attending Local meetings.
This meeting is being sponsored by the Métis Regional Council Zone IV of the Métis Nation of Alberta, 11724-95 st, Edmonton, T5G 1L9, 780.944.9288
Place: Amiskwaciy Academy School, 101 Airport Road, Edmonton. The school is located by the municipal airport.
Time: Noon to 4 p.m. A light lunch will be provided, free parking.
Through relationship building and partnerships we are more able to access resources.
Invite your friends and family to be part of a council that represents your interests, priorities and issues.
For more information, please call Melanie at 780 944-9288, Lyle at 780 910-3626 or Robert Lee at 780 455-2200.
It is not necessary to have a membership with the Métis Nation of Alberta or to have been attending Local meetings.
This meeting is being sponsored by the Métis Regional Council Zone IV of the Métis Nation of Alberta, 11724-95 st, Edmonton, T5G 1L9, 780.944.9288
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Duty of Fairness. A Press release was posted on the Metis Nation of Alberta website, May 3. Here is the rest of the story...
In the Court of Appeal of Alberta
Citation: Boucher v. Métis Nation of Alberta Association, 2008 ABCA 239
Date: 20080624
Docket: 0803-0133-AC
Registry: Edmonton
Between: Rick Boucher Applicant (Appellant)
- and -
Métis Nation of Alberta Association, Audrey Poitras, Métis Judiciary Council, Dale Friedel, Toby Racette, Ken Shaw, Bertha Clarke-Jones and Bonnie Bell Respondents (Respondents)
_______________________________________________________
Reasons for Decision of The Honourable Mr. Justice Jean Côté
_______________________________________________________
Application for a Stay of Execution Pending Appeal
_______________________________________________________
Reasons for Decision of
The Honourable Mr. Justice Jean Côté
_______________________________________________________
[1] I heard an application for a stay of execution pending appeal. These are the reasons to
explain why I gave what is loosely called a stay of execution, but (as counsel point out) is more
strictly an injunction pending appeal. The relevant tests (for stay and injunction) are the same. I then gave a number of detailed oral conditions, and left costs to the panel hearing the appeal.
[2] The appellant’s counsel properly points to my powers under Rr. 508 and 753.15(1). I add Rr.
4 and 440.
[3] I have read the long careful reasons of the chambers judge, 2008 ABQB 262. They may be
right, but there are many difficult questions of law involved, including the quorum of the Métis
Judicial Council. So I cannot say that the appeal is not arguable. Nor does any of the counsel suggest that. The respondent’s written argument suggests a stricter test pending appeal, a strong prima facie case. If that is so (and I do not decide that), I believe it is met here. Harris v. Law Socy. of Alberta [1936] S.C.R. 88 may be distinguishable.
[4] Would denying a stay work irreparable prejudice or make the appeal nugatory? One can
usually not be certain. But here there is some sworn evidence that the Provincial Council of the
Métis Nation of Alberta is now split between two factions on many issues. Though that is not a
happy result, democracy sometimes does that. The evidence suggests that if the appellant is
removed, that will produce a tie which Audrey Poitras can break with her casting vote as an exofficio member. I believe that would cause some irreparable harm to the appellant and his allies. In addition, the appellant is one of the two elected representatives for one region. Without a stay, they will lose his services and votes irreparably.
[5] What is the balance of inconvenience? To the appellant, the danger is as I have just outlined.
To the respondents, the danger is that the appellant will carry on what they see as a disloyal course of disruption. However, he is only one vote. He cannot alone break a quorum, for example. In the past instance where provincial funding was lost, it took six other fellow members of the Provincial Council to stay away. It is still possible for the appellant to convince others how to attend, abstain, or vote, with or without a stay of execution.
[6] It is suggested that my stay would give or restore to the appellant credibility, but I have no
evidence of that, and it is speculation as to the future. It is also said that the appellant is defaming and misleading others. Again, I can see no evidence that my stay or its lack would much add to or subtract from his ability to do that. Nor do the affidavits convince me that the appellant’s pronouncements are causing the respondents grave harm.
Page: 2
[7] In short, I believe that the harm from a stay would be less than that from its absence. And
some of the harm with a stay would not really be caused by the stay, but rather by the workings of democracy.
[8] I am tempted to say more about the events detailed in the affidavits, but it is undesirable that I go into the merits of the appeal. Three other justices may see it differently and will go into it more deeply.
Application heard on June 17, 2008
Reasons filed at Edmonton, Alberta this 24th day of June, 2008 Côté J.A.
Page: 3
Appearances: Senia Tarrabain for the Applicant (Appellant) Rick Boucher
H.J. Sniderman/L.C. Kelly for the Respondents (Respondents) Métis Nation of Alberta Association and Audrey Poitras
D.N. Jardine for the Respondent (Respondent) Métis Judiciary Council
www.albertacourts.ab.ca/Courtof Appeal/Judgments/tabid/84/ct/searchJudgmentsResult/mid/664/Default.aspx
Citation: Boucher v. Métis Nation of Alberta Association, 2008 ABCA 239
Date: 20080624
Docket: 0803-0133-AC
Registry: Edmonton
Between: Rick Boucher Applicant (Appellant)
- and -
Métis Nation of Alberta Association, Audrey Poitras, Métis Judiciary Council, Dale Friedel, Toby Racette, Ken Shaw, Bertha Clarke-Jones and Bonnie Bell Respondents (Respondents)
_______________________________________________________
Reasons for Decision of The Honourable Mr. Justice Jean Côté
_______________________________________________________
Application for a Stay of Execution Pending Appeal
_______________________________________________________
Reasons for Decision of
The Honourable Mr. Justice Jean Côté
_______________________________________________________
[1] I heard an application for a stay of execution pending appeal. These are the reasons to
explain why I gave what is loosely called a stay of execution, but (as counsel point out) is more
strictly an injunction pending appeal. The relevant tests (for stay and injunction) are the same. I then gave a number of detailed oral conditions, and left costs to the panel hearing the appeal.
[2] The appellant’s counsel properly points to my powers under Rr. 508 and 753.15(1). I add Rr.
4 and 440.
[3] I have read the long careful reasons of the chambers judge, 2008 ABQB 262. They may be
right, but there are many difficult questions of law involved, including the quorum of the Métis
Judicial Council. So I cannot say that the appeal is not arguable. Nor does any of the counsel suggest that. The respondent’s written argument suggests a stricter test pending appeal, a strong prima facie case. If that is so (and I do not decide that), I believe it is met here. Harris v. Law Socy. of Alberta [1936] S.C.R. 88 may be distinguishable.
[4] Would denying a stay work irreparable prejudice or make the appeal nugatory? One can
usually not be certain. But here there is some sworn evidence that the Provincial Council of the
Métis Nation of Alberta is now split between two factions on many issues. Though that is not a
happy result, democracy sometimes does that. The evidence suggests that if the appellant is
removed, that will produce a tie which Audrey Poitras can break with her casting vote as an exofficio member. I believe that would cause some irreparable harm to the appellant and his allies. In addition, the appellant is one of the two elected representatives for one region. Without a stay, they will lose his services and votes irreparably.
[5] What is the balance of inconvenience? To the appellant, the danger is as I have just outlined.
To the respondents, the danger is that the appellant will carry on what they see as a disloyal course of disruption. However, he is only one vote. He cannot alone break a quorum, for example. In the past instance where provincial funding was lost, it took six other fellow members of the Provincial Council to stay away. It is still possible for the appellant to convince others how to attend, abstain, or vote, with or without a stay of execution.
[6] It is suggested that my stay would give or restore to the appellant credibility, but I have no
evidence of that, and it is speculation as to the future. It is also said that the appellant is defaming and misleading others. Again, I can see no evidence that my stay or its lack would much add to or subtract from his ability to do that. Nor do the affidavits convince me that the appellant’s pronouncements are causing the respondents grave harm.
Page: 2
[7] In short, I believe that the harm from a stay would be less than that from its absence. And
some of the harm with a stay would not really be caused by the stay, but rather by the workings of democracy.
[8] I am tempted to say more about the events detailed in the affidavits, but it is undesirable that I go into the merits of the appeal. Three other justices may see it differently and will go into it more deeply.
Application heard on June 17, 2008
Reasons filed at Edmonton, Alberta this 24th day of June, 2008 Côté J.A.
Page: 3
Appearances: Senia Tarrabain for the Applicant (Appellant) Rick Boucher
H.J. Sniderman/L.C. Kelly for the Respondents (Respondents) Métis Nation of Alberta Association and Audrey Poitras
D.N. Jardine for the Respondent (Respondent) Métis Judiciary Council
www.albertacourts.ab.ca/Courtof Appeal/Judgments/tabid/84/ct/searchJudgmentsResult/mid/664/Default.aspx
Regional Council Report for the October 3, 2008 meeting
Vice President’s Message
Tansi, Boozhoo, Bonjour, Hello,
Thank you to everyone who gave me their support during the election. You honor me with your trust.
To all members in region four, I will use whatever resources I can access to enrich your lives both individually and corporately. The best way of course to make life more fulfilling and rewarding is to work together as a community. I trust that my experience and education will help me to facilitate that process. As we develop a common vision, I hope that individual strengths will outshine the weaknesses which will result in renewed relationships and greater unity. This is the only way we can make a better tomorrow for future generations. I am looking forward to an exciting term full of unpresedented community participation and successful outcomes.
Please communicate your ideas and concerns to me. Let’s network and increase our community capacity so we can better access resources and services and create new ones.
Sincerely,
Sharon A. Pasula
Vice President
Tansi, Boozhoo, Bonjour, Hello,
Thank you to everyone who gave me their support during the election. You honor me with your trust.
To all members in region four, I will use whatever resources I can access to enrich your lives both individually and corporately. The best way of course to make life more fulfilling and rewarding is to work together as a community. I trust that my experience and education will help me to facilitate that process. As we develop a common vision, I hope that individual strengths will outshine the weaknesses which will result in renewed relationships and greater unity. This is the only way we can make a better tomorrow for future generations. I am looking forward to an exciting term full of unpresedented community participation and successful outcomes.
Please communicate your ideas and concerns to me. Let’s network and increase our community capacity so we can better access resources and services and create new ones.
Sincerely,
Sharon A. Pasula
Vice President
Annual Report, 2007-2008, Region IV, Métis Nation of Alberta, Vice President’s Report
Annual Report, 2007-2008, Region IV, Métis Nation of Alberta, Vice President’s Report, Sharon Pasula, October 3, 2008
My short time in office has already been eventful, apart from taking my two week preplanned vacation overseas. The orientation alone is grueling – just joking. The staff has been generous and considerate both in the region IV office and at head office.
Someone told me, “The way to stay in office is to stay out of the office.” This is what community development is about – being in the community. So if every time you call and it seems that I am not in the office, I am in the community. Meetings and events in which I participated, in addition to meeting with community members, in chronological date include;
· September 4, Michif Cultural & Resource Institute, to discuss the future of Métis culture. In attendance: Senator Gerry St. Germaine, Chair, Senate Standing Committee on Aboriginal People’s, municipal representatives from St. Albert, Director from St. Albert Musee, former Senator, Dr. Thelma Chalifoux.
· September 7, Michif Cultural & Resource Institute, to discuss poverty and women’s issues. In attendance: Senator Elizabeth Hubley, Senate Standing Committee on Aboriginal People’s, former Senator, Dr. Thelma Chalifoux.
· September 21, The Little White School, St. Albert, to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the school which is now a historical site.
· September 21, Provincial Council meeting.
· September 24, Whitecourt, Community Consultation, Labour Market Development, to discuss future direction of employment and training.
· September 28, Gunn Recreation Centre, Gunn Local AGM.
Communication is extremely important. I have heard from many that they have not been informed of events, be it a local meeting or a community consultation. Until region IV has an active website please check my blog, http://pasulaletendre.blogspot.ca/. I will try to keep it updated to within 24 hours of the time I receive the information. If I know about it, it will be on the blog. Obviously, if I don’t know about it – I can’t post it, so keep me in the loop. For those who do not or prefer not to communicate via computer, the region IV membership list needs to be updated. I have ideas on how this can be done but I need to hear from you. This task cannot be done by a few individuals – it requires community participation to succeed. We cannot get in touch with you if we don’t have accurate information.
At the provincial council meeting I was active. Two years ago there was a motion to give each region ten thousand dollars from the core budget. This was never realized. I was instrumental in forwarding this motion.
As a leader, I understand the precept of making decisions for a corporate body, but I prefer to do that after having input from you. How to do that has been discussed over and over again and needs to be formalized. Currently we have several locals registered and most are inactive according to archived minutes (each time a local has a meeting it must forward a copy of the minutes to the region office). Historically the Métis are a creative people – entrepreneurs, initiators, so give us your ideas and let’s reconnect. You are the community!
____________________________________________________________
The regional council meeting was held the day before the AGM. That is when I was informed that the bylaws had changed since I was involved as a local president. No longer are local president's accountable to the regional council. The local president's were given money by the regional council and no reporting is mandatory or expected to the regional council. This is totally opposite from when I was a local president. In those days we had to submit our minutes from our meetings. We had accountability. Now, local president's are accountable to local members, not the regional council. I am still processing this information. FYI
As a member you can access the verbatim minutes of most meeting of the Métis Nation. I encourage you to do so.
Good news. There is serious discussion about having an Edmonton Métis Council with four elected representatives. This is a great opportunity to get involved again. Please contact me. We will be having three town hall meetings to discuss it. I insisted that every member in Edmonton be contacted at least once about these town hall meetings. This has two purposes - to update our membership list and to encourage more community involvement.
Stay posted to this blog and I will keep you informed. If I know about it, it will be here.
Thank you for listening.
My short time in office has already been eventful, apart from taking my two week preplanned vacation overseas. The orientation alone is grueling – just joking. The staff has been generous and considerate both in the region IV office and at head office.
Someone told me, “The way to stay in office is to stay out of the office.” This is what community development is about – being in the community. So if every time you call and it seems that I am not in the office, I am in the community. Meetings and events in which I participated, in addition to meeting with community members, in chronological date include;
· September 4, Michif Cultural & Resource Institute, to discuss the future of Métis culture. In attendance: Senator Gerry St. Germaine, Chair, Senate Standing Committee on Aboriginal People’s, municipal representatives from St. Albert, Director from St. Albert Musee, former Senator, Dr. Thelma Chalifoux.
· September 7, Michif Cultural & Resource Institute, to discuss poverty and women’s issues. In attendance: Senator Elizabeth Hubley, Senate Standing Committee on Aboriginal People’s, former Senator, Dr. Thelma Chalifoux.
· September 21, The Little White School, St. Albert, to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the school which is now a historical site.
· September 21, Provincial Council meeting.
· September 24, Whitecourt, Community Consultation, Labour Market Development, to discuss future direction of employment and training.
· September 28, Gunn Recreation Centre, Gunn Local AGM.
Communication is extremely important. I have heard from many that they have not been informed of events, be it a local meeting or a community consultation. Until region IV has an active website please check my blog, http://pasulaletendre.blogspot.ca/. I will try to keep it updated to within 24 hours of the time I receive the information. If I know about it, it will be on the blog. Obviously, if I don’t know about it – I can’t post it, so keep me in the loop. For those who do not or prefer not to communicate via computer, the region IV membership list needs to be updated. I have ideas on how this can be done but I need to hear from you. This task cannot be done by a few individuals – it requires community participation to succeed. We cannot get in touch with you if we don’t have accurate information.
At the provincial council meeting I was active. Two years ago there was a motion to give each region ten thousand dollars from the core budget. This was never realized. I was instrumental in forwarding this motion.
As a leader, I understand the precept of making decisions for a corporate body, but I prefer to do that after having input from you. How to do that has been discussed over and over again and needs to be formalized. Currently we have several locals registered and most are inactive according to archived minutes (each time a local has a meeting it must forward a copy of the minutes to the region office). Historically the Métis are a creative people – entrepreneurs, initiators, so give us your ideas and let’s reconnect. You are the community!
____________________________________________________________
The regional council meeting was held the day before the AGM. That is when I was informed that the bylaws had changed since I was involved as a local president. No longer are local president's accountable to the regional council. The local president's were given money by the regional council and no reporting is mandatory or expected to the regional council. This is totally opposite from when I was a local president. In those days we had to submit our minutes from our meetings. We had accountability. Now, local president's are accountable to local members, not the regional council. I am still processing this information. FYI
As a member you can access the verbatim minutes of most meeting of the Métis Nation. I encourage you to do so.
Good news. There is serious discussion about having an Edmonton Métis Council with four elected representatives. This is a great opportunity to get involved again. Please contact me. We will be having three town hall meetings to discuss it. I insisted that every member in Edmonton be contacted at least once about these town hall meetings. This has two purposes - to update our membership list and to encourage more community involvement.
Stay posted to this blog and I will keep you informed. If I know about it, it will be here.
Thank you for listening.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Annual General Meeting Oct 4, 2008
Tansi,
Notice: Metis Regional Council-Zone IV
Annual General Meeting
Saturday, October 4, 2008
15004 Yellowhead Inn, edmonton, AB
10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m
In the spirit of community growth and development,
all Zone IV members are encouraged to attend.
For more info, please contact Zone IV (780) 944-9288
For Regional Council Members: Meeting Oct 3, 10:00 am same location.
Notice: Metis Regional Council-Zone IV
Annual General Meeting
Saturday, October 4, 2008
15004 Yellowhead Inn, edmonton, AB
10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m
In the spirit of community growth and development,
all Zone IV members are encouraged to attend.
For more info, please contact Zone IV (780) 944-9288
For Regional Council Members: Meeting Oct 3, 10:00 am same location.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Thank you for your support.
Thank you everyone who supported me in the 2008 MNA election.
You honor me with your trust and I take that very seriously. I will serve you with whatever resources are available to me, with integrity and authenticity.
I started my term with two invitations to meetings then completed a commitment I made long before I considered running as a candidate. Last year I planned a trip to Israel for September 8-18. I attended the seventh World Christian Gathering of Indigenous People. There were a few other Metis people there from other parts of Canada. It was a great time of networking.
October third has been scheduled for a regional council meeting and October fourth for a general membership meeting. Call the region four office for details which were being planned when I left. I hope to get reacquainted with some of you and meet more from our community.
You honor me with your trust and I take that very seriously. I will serve you with whatever resources are available to me, with integrity and authenticity.
I started my term with two invitations to meetings then completed a commitment I made long before I considered running as a candidate. Last year I planned a trip to Israel for September 8-18. I attended the seventh World Christian Gathering of Indigenous People. There were a few other Metis people there from other parts of Canada. It was a great time of networking.
October third has been scheduled for a regional council meeting and October fourth for a general membership meeting. Call the region four office for details which were being planned when I left. I hope to get reacquainted with some of you and meet more from our community.
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Where to vote on Sept 2, 2008
REGION 4: Polls open: Sept 2, 8 am- 8 pm
Edmonton: Chateau Louis, Conference Centre (behind hotel)
11727 Kingsway Ave, Commercial Room
Grande Cache Eagles Nest Community Hall 10028 99 St
Hinton Hinton Community Centre 965 Switzer Drive
Edson Edson Friendship Centre 13, 5023 3 Ave
Drayton Valley Westwood Inn 5002 34 Ave
Whitecourt Lakeview Inn & Suites 3325 Caxton St.
Gunn Gunn Recreation Centre
St. Albert St. Albert Inn 156 St. Albert Road
Wetaskiwin Wetaski. Memorial Arts Centre, 5206 50 St
Stony Plain H&R Block 5007 50 Street
If you live in region 4, you can vote at any poll in region 4.
Edmonton: Chateau Louis, Conference Centre (behind hotel)
11727 Kingsway Ave, Commercial Room
Grande Cache Eagles Nest Community Hall 10028 99 St
Hinton Hinton Community Centre 965 Switzer Drive
Edson Edson Friendship Centre 13, 5023 3 Ave
Drayton Valley Westwood Inn 5002 34 Ave
Whitecourt Lakeview Inn & Suites 3325 Caxton St.
Gunn Gunn Recreation Centre
St. Albert St. Albert Inn 156 St. Albert Road
Wetaskiwin Wetaski. Memorial Arts Centre, 5206 50 St
Stony Plain H&R Block 5007 50 Street
If you live in region 4, you can vote at any poll in region 4.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Thursday, August 7, 2008
VOTE FOR SHARON PASULA (LETENDRE)
Sharon Pasula (Letendre), Vice President, Region 4, Métis Nation of Alberta
Métis Nation of Alberta, 2008 Election
Sharon draws from a strong heritage grounded in Lac Ste Anne, Alberta. Childhood summers were often spent helping her granny and grandpa during the annual Ste. Anne pilgrimage. Archie and Caroline (Letendre) had a food stand ‘this side of the creek’ where meals and snacks could be purchased by pilgrims, friends and relatives alike. Archie’s stand was the only one for many years and helped meet a need for the people. Sharon’s family went out year after year to lend a hand. In the early years there was no electricity; this meant no refrigerator so pop was buried in ice in three large wash tubs. It felt good to keep the tubs filled, help scoop ice cream, or flip burgers so others could take a much needed rest. The rewards were ice cream and pop, every kid’s delight. And, despite being told not to, a chance to play on the bridge. Such is a kid’s life, a Métis kid’s life.
Sharon first attended an annual assembly with her Aunties and cousins in Lac La Biche. It was awesome and exciting. It was the first time she was inside a big tent, complete with sawdust on the floor. There were so many people there that the tent was noisy with laughter and conversation. Watching people jig and two-step was a real highlight.
A season of life passed. While in her third and final year as a mature undergraduate student at the University of Alberta, Sharon consciously re-engaged her culture. In 1990 she became a member of the Métis Society of Alberta (before it became the Métis Nation of Alberta) then located on St Albert Trail. Wanting to ignite interest and spur growth, she supported the community as a local president.
Sharon also served the Métis people in the capacity of literacy project coordinator. This was a new position and a new field, both of which captured her interest and energy. During this time, Sharon was also a founding member of the Métis Women of Alberta.
Opportunities presented themselves and Sharon went to Ottawa to serve Métis women as the first Executive Director for the Métis National Council of Women. From there it was on to Manitoba, where she was a card carrying member of the Manitoba Métis Federation. She was again embraced by the Métis community and became active. It was during this time that Sharon attended the Batoche celebration in Saskatchewan, another popular Métis place of gathering.
In 2003 Sharon returned to Edmonton from Manitoba where she earned her Master of Arts degree in adult education. She enjoys supporting her family relationships, rekindling old friendships and establishing new ones.
Professionally, Sharon has her own consulting business, with focuses on community and personal development and teaching. She is a proud member of the Aboriginal Women’s Professional Association. Music is a lifelong passion so she is also a member of the Alberta Association of Aboriginal Music (www.aaamsound.com).
The Nation has had a season of Métis specific programs. These have been life giving in assisting many in the community and should be maintained. It is time now to move ahead and focus on developing partnerships. The Métis are initiators and partners, not a people to demand their own, but a people who desire to live peacefully with neighbors and share resources (e.g. river lots – everyone shared a part of the river front). In light of the recent apology by the Prime Minister, this is a season for healing and rebuilding, to join hands and pool resources. Why should two Métis, neither of whom can afford to build a house, resign themselves to forever rent? With support the two (or more) can collaborate and build a small community (co-op, for seniors and also non - seniors) that together they can sustain at a fraction of the cost.
Establishing partnerships builds in accountability, partnerships increase human and financial resources, decrease individual risk, and help build stronger communities for a more secure and sustainable lifestyle.
Sharon has a heart to see reconciliation in the Métis Nation. Many people have gone their own way for countless valid reasons. Membership could be higher but many refuse to join and/or participate, therefore community development should be a priority.
The community can be re-energized by governing the Métis Nation like a nation, not like a corporation. Unlike a corporation, which is accountable to a board of directors, a nation is accountable to every member. This is the Métis way.
Sharon’s personal, professional and academic experiences and training have prepared her to meet the challenges faced by today’s Métis people head on. Together let us celebrate and build on Métis accomplishments to ensure a secure future for future generations.
PASULA, SHARON (Letendre)
Vice President, Region 4,
Métis Nation of Alberta
780-456-3774,
spasula@softhome.net
Métis Nation of Alberta, 2008 Election
Sharon draws from a strong heritage grounded in Lac Ste Anne, Alberta. Childhood summers were often spent helping her granny and grandpa during the annual Ste. Anne pilgrimage. Archie and Caroline (Letendre) had a food stand ‘this side of the creek’ where meals and snacks could be purchased by pilgrims, friends and relatives alike. Archie’s stand was the only one for many years and helped meet a need for the people. Sharon’s family went out year after year to lend a hand. In the early years there was no electricity; this meant no refrigerator so pop was buried in ice in three large wash tubs. It felt good to keep the tubs filled, help scoop ice cream, or flip burgers so others could take a much needed rest. The rewards were ice cream and pop, every kid’s delight. And, despite being told not to, a chance to play on the bridge. Such is a kid’s life, a Métis kid’s life.
Sharon first attended an annual assembly with her Aunties and cousins in Lac La Biche. It was awesome and exciting. It was the first time she was inside a big tent, complete with sawdust on the floor. There were so many people there that the tent was noisy with laughter and conversation. Watching people jig and two-step was a real highlight.
A season of life passed. While in her third and final year as a mature undergraduate student at the University of Alberta, Sharon consciously re-engaged her culture. In 1990 she became a member of the Métis Society of Alberta (before it became the Métis Nation of Alberta) then located on St Albert Trail. Wanting to ignite interest and spur growth, she supported the community as a local president.
Sharon also served the Métis people in the capacity of literacy project coordinator. This was a new position and a new field, both of which captured her interest and energy. During this time, Sharon was also a founding member of the Métis Women of Alberta.
Opportunities presented themselves and Sharon went to Ottawa to serve Métis women as the first Executive Director for the Métis National Council of Women. From there it was on to Manitoba, where she was a card carrying member of the Manitoba Métis Federation. She was again embraced by the Métis community and became active. It was during this time that Sharon attended the Batoche celebration in Saskatchewan, another popular Métis place of gathering.
In 2003 Sharon returned to Edmonton from Manitoba where she earned her Master of Arts degree in adult education. She enjoys supporting her family relationships, rekindling old friendships and establishing new ones.
Professionally, Sharon has her own consulting business, with focuses on community and personal development and teaching. She is a proud member of the Aboriginal Women’s Professional Association. Music is a lifelong passion so she is also a member of the Alberta Association of Aboriginal Music (www.aaamsound.com).
The Nation has had a season of Métis specific programs. These have been life giving in assisting many in the community and should be maintained. It is time now to move ahead and focus on developing partnerships. The Métis are initiators and partners, not a people to demand their own, but a people who desire to live peacefully with neighbors and share resources (e.g. river lots – everyone shared a part of the river front). In light of the recent apology by the Prime Minister, this is a season for healing and rebuilding, to join hands and pool resources. Why should two Métis, neither of whom can afford to build a house, resign themselves to forever rent? With support the two (or more) can collaborate and build a small community (co-op, for seniors and also non - seniors) that together they can sustain at a fraction of the cost.
Establishing partnerships builds in accountability, partnerships increase human and financial resources, decrease individual risk, and help build stronger communities for a more secure and sustainable lifestyle.
Sharon has a heart to see reconciliation in the Métis Nation. Many people have gone their own way for countless valid reasons. Membership could be higher but many refuse to join and/or participate, therefore community development should be a priority.
The community can be re-energized by governing the Métis Nation like a nation, not like a corporation. Unlike a corporation, which is accountable to a board of directors, a nation is accountable to every member. This is the Métis way.
Sharon’s personal, professional and academic experiences and training have prepared her to meet the challenges faced by today’s Métis people head on. Together let us celebrate and build on Métis accomplishments to ensure a secure future for future generations.
PASULA, SHARON (Letendre)
Vice President, Region 4,
Métis Nation of Alberta
780-456-3774,
spasula@softhome.net
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