Vice President Report, September 2, 2008 – March 21, 2009

Vice President Report, Sharon A Pasula, Presented at the Métis Regional Council IV, Drayton Valley, March 21, 2009

Executive Summary

The focus of my office during this period concentrated on six areas. First, participation in Métis specific activities either by invitation or acquiring knowledge of it; local meetings (executive, AGM, community consultation, etc - heretofore only the Gunn local has accessed my attention), regional council and related meetings (e.g. flag raising ceremony at City Hall), and all provincial council meetings (includes the strategic planning retreat, specially called events e.g. gathering at the steps of the legislature and attending court in Sherwood Park, duty to consult, etc.). Also, I believe that our history needs to be documented not only for posterity but for our own learning so I arranged a tour of the Métis Archival Project at the University of Alberta. My purpose for this was in large part to encourage community members to volunteer with the project. There is a massive amount of information that needs to be processed and few dollars to pay people to do it.

Secondly, to network and gather information as to available services not already provided by the Métis Nation of Alberta Association (MNAA) and affiliates that Métis people could access, and then to connect Métis people to these services. A line from my campaign literature, “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.” The community knows about these but possibly not those offered generally. One such opportunity is with Action For Healthy Communities. They provide small seed grants for community based initiatives of various kinds in order to foster intercultural and cross cultural relationship building.

Thirdly, to seek out areas of possible community involvement where the Métis voice could be heard. Not only should we have Metis specific programs but we also need to be out in the broader community educating and advocating on our own behalf. Being on boards, advisory committees, etc.of every kind will go far in the Métis being more visible and respected and at the same time less vulnerable and open to misinformation. From my campaign literature, “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.“ One important network I was able to facilitate was between Dr. Lafrance, PhD, Associate Director and Project Director and the MNA’s Health department. I met Dr. Lafrance at the Creating Hope Society, the sixties and seventies scoop: Aboriginal children in Care, 2nd annual conference. He was looking to partner with Aboriginal groups for a research project he is doing called, Knowledge Mobilization for Aboriginal Child Family and Community Wellness through the Alberta Centre for Child, Family and Community Research/University of Calgary.

Fourthly to discover opportunities in healing and reconciliation for our community. “Sharon has a heart to see reconciliation in the Métis Nation,” is another line from my campaign literature. Becoming aware of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission is a huge step towards healing. King’s University College hosted a two-day public forum: Remembering the Children: an Aboriginal & Church Leaders’ Gathering in Support of Truth and Reconciliation with excellent speakers and opportunities to dialogue. Attendees became aware of the legacy of the residential schools for First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples. When individual understanding not only of this issue but others is gained, the synergy of community healing is multiplied which can result in more positive relationships with others and healthier future generations. The event brought together people who would not otherwise have met.

Fifthly, individual advocacy work. This included issues ranging from membership to help pay a large heating oil bill for a rural community member.

Sixthly, being cognizant of current academic thought both Indigenous and non-Indigenous is critical in helping to advocate for our community on a level other than community development and program services. This is also a means of professional development. I have been blessed to access several public presentations and some conferences and workshops where I paid out of pocket. Most that I have attended have been in the greater Edmonton area – one was at the Blue Quills College close to St. Paul. This invitation came through Anna-Leah King: Co-Director, Aboriginal Teacher Education Program, University of Alberta: Faculty of Education.

Miscellaneous comments

Obviously all these activities cannot be done sitting at a desk in an office. Someone said, “The way to stay in office is to stay out of the office.” I usually spend some time of each day in the office doing administrative work so that it doesn’t get away from me. This doesn’t preclude working at home. Having a computer and internet access also facilitates doing administrative work both during usual office hours and otherwise. The contact information on my campaign literature is still current and community members access me through those ‘out of the office’ channels. Couple this with a windowless office hence no natural light (I have mild seasonal affective disorder) and no fresh air (I keep a fan plus a small electric water fountain to generate humidity) compels me to spend more time in the community.

Being a member of my community league, Spruce Avenue opened doors for me and that was the launching pad for networking in the community development and services area. Currently I participate in a few areas where I hope and work towards having another Métis person sit. Basically, I will sit at the table until someone from the community is willing and able to commit to it. Unfortunately most of these groups meet during usual office hours which prevent most from participating. One example is Voices of the Urban Indigenous People: a group of community agencies and members wanting to make significant contributions through community building initiatives that make a difference to Aboriginal peoples and creates awareness for non-Aboriginal peoples.

I am a strong advocate for environmental concerns and promote recycling. Currently my preferred filing method is not using file folders but to utilize binders. I acquire these from the Reuse Recycle Centre. Much of my office supplies come from there. Membership is $20.00 per year, a nominal cost to help reduce the landfills.

Additional activity details are available on request and may be posted on my blog in the future.

Sharon A Pasula

Report about Contemporary Metis barn raising

The weather was nasty and prevented almost everyone from attending unfortunately.

I arrived Saturday around noon. Shirley's son and wife were already there working. I did some painting and was hurried home before the storm hit. It was snowing in Lacome when I left. Nice weather until 40 km south of Edmonton where I counted 9 vehicles in the ditch. It was slow going after that but I got home without incident. One person who cancelled due to weather sent $50.00 to buy supplies. It was a worthwhile effort and everyone was encouraged.

There is still lots of work to do so don't be shy to call Shirley.403.786.9133 if you are close by or you can also call me. 780.456.3774

(by the way, her new address is #12 Heritage Drive, Lacombe.

I'll try arrange another 'barn raising' in the spring, but don't wait for me.

Sharon Golden Rule: "Do to others as you would have them to unto you."

Contemporary Metis barn raising.

Back in the days people would help each other literally raise a barn.
Neighbors helped neighbours. In the city we don’t have barns but we still have needs.

So one of our community needs help to renovate the basement to make it into bedrooms for the children. This is a huge priority.

She lives in Lacombe Alberta, March 7th some of us will go there .

We need particularly anyone with drywall mudding and sanding experience, but come out if you feel compelled. The material we need on the 7th would be; Drywall mud & drywall trowls.

If you can’t make it, materials for subsequent construction days and/or gift certificates for Home Depot, etc. would be a blessing.

Material list for the entire project;

*4 large buckets of drywall mud, *Ceiling panels (2x4) 50 - 60 needed
*Metal ceiling framework (wall angles, Main T's, Cross T's) *Ceiling lights for 2 bedrooms, 1 hallway, living room *2 gallons of primer *8-10 gallons of paint
*Laminate flooring (approx. 1000 sq ft) *Laminate underlay 2 in 1 (approx. 1000 sq ft)
*Hood fan above stove * 8 heat vent covers * 2 bathroom fans
* Tub * Tub surround * Sink and vanity * Sink taps * Tub taps
* Lino for bathroom flooring * Bathroom light * Vanity lights * 12 4x8 drywall

Nice to have: * New stove * New bigger Fridge

If you want to help with any of this please call Sharon at 780.456.3774

Envision the Future – with a Metis focus.

Everyone welcome. (not just Metis)

This will be a time of discussion and looking towards future projects.

Attending this community dialogue could enable Action For Healthy Communities (AHC, www.a4hc.ca) to provide seed grants of up to $1,000.00 per project.

Come on out and see how it works, meet some great people and have some light refreshments.

Date: March 5, Thursday.

Time: 6:30-8:30.

Place: Action For Healthy Communities, #201, 10554-110 Street,
Park in a lot, on the street, or north side of the building.

Please RSVP to Arturo, 780-944-4687, aavila@telus.net .

More info call Arturo or Sharon 780.456.3774, spasula@softhome.net

Aboriginal Educator

Would you describe yourself as an Aboriginal educator?

If yes, you are invited to a meeting that will be held at the Universityof Alberta February 12, 2009.

Let's meet, network and see what happens. I have some ideas and I'm sureyou do as well.

No obligation, just an opportunity to relax and share ideas.

Who: Aboriginal educators (you know who you are :)

What: A meeting of Aboriginal educatorsWhen: February 12, 4:30-6:30

Where: University of Alberta, Education building (north side of 87 Ave andbetween 112th and 114th st) 10th floor lounge.

Please note there is no elevator to the 10 th floor so you must get off onthe 9th floor and take the stairs to 10 (sorry about that if you need anelevator all the way).

Parking - available in the lot on the east side of the Education building and in the Education parkade west of the Education building.

Please RSVP via email by replying to this because light refreshments willbe served.

Feel free to forward this to anyone you think might beinterested.

Thanks for your consideration


Sharon A Pasula,

Servant of the Creator

780.456.3774

http://pasulaletendre.blogspot.com/

God bless the Metis Nation.

Indigenous Celebration Circle

Worship the Creator in dance, song, and story.

Friendship Centre, 11205-101 St

Sunday, February 22, 2009, 7:00 pm
(Last Sunday of the month: 2009: Mar.29, April 26, May 31, June 28)

* "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."

Info: Sharon: 780-456-3774

* John 4:23-25 (New American Standard Bible)

You should be aware of all kinds of activities . . .. .Action No.: 0903 00288

Action No.:


IN THE COURT OF QUEEN'S BENCH OF ALBERTA
JUDICIAL DISTRICT OF EDMONTON

BETWEEN:

TIM COLLINS

Plaintiff

- and -

MELANIE OMENIHO and METIS OPPORTUNITY INC
and METIS REGIONAL COUNCIL ZONE IV OF THE
METIS NATION OF ALBERTA ASSOCIATION

Defendants

STATEMENT OF CLAIM

1. The Plaintiff, TIM COLLINS (the "PLAINTIFF") resides at or near the City of Edmonton, in

the Province of Alberta. The Plaintiff was at all material times the elected Vice-President of

the Defendant METIS REGIONAL COUNCIL ZONE IV OF THE METIS NATION OF

ALBERTA ASSOCIATION ("REGION IV").

2. The Defendant, MELANIE OMENIHO ("OMENIHO"), is and was at all material times a

staff member of the Defendant METIS OPPORTUNITY INC ("OPPORTUNITY").

3. The Defendant OPPORTUNITY is a body corporate duly registered pursuant to the laws

of Alberta and carrying on business in the Province of Alberta.

4. The Defendant OPPORTUNITY is a subsidiary company of the Defendant REGION IV,

which is a body corporate duly registered and carrying on business in the Province of

Alberta.

5. The Defendant OMENIHO is and was at all material times the email service provider of

the Aboriginal E-Notice (the "E-Notice").

6. On or about March 11,2008, OMENIHO disseminated an E-Notice email to over 2,000 people

in the Metis and Aboriginal Community containing the following unsolicited defamatory words:

"Special Announcement - I regret that I have to infoffi1 you about an

incident of email identity theft. I became aware that last week an old

email address book for the aboriginal e-notice was stolen and accessed

by Tim Collins and Trevor Gladue, two (2) Metis politicians who are

seeking re-election in the upcoming Metis election. A breach of trust was

how an old back up copy was accessed. It was not my intent to have the

email addresses exploited in this way but I do believe that it is important

for you to know that I did not give this infoffi1ation to them but it was taken;"

7. In their natural and ordinary meaning the said words meant and were understood to mean

that:

(a) the Plaintiff stole personal and confidential email information;

(b) the Plaintiff clearly disregards the privacy of the electorate; and

(c) the Plaintiff has selfishly obtained this infonnation for purposes of re-election;

(d) the Plaintiff is not a trustworthy candidate for re-election; and

(e) the Plaintiff is a thief.

8. The aforesaid E-Notice email was sent to over 2,000 people in the Metis and Aboriginal

Community. The aforesaid E-Notice email was further disseminated through the Provincial

Government of Alberta' s internal email list for Provincial Government employees.

9. In consequence to the aforesaid words emailed by the Defendant OMENIHO, the Plaintiff s

reputation, both personally and as an elected official seeking re-election, has been seriously

injured and has suffered considerable distress, embarrassment, and mental anguish. In addition,

the said words have damaged the Plaintiff's ability to be re-elected as the Vice-President of

REGION IV and in his future ability to campaign for future elections.

10. The Defendant OMENIHO maliciously intended to harm the Plaintiff by emailing and

publishing the aforesaid defamatory words.

11. Further or in the alternative, the aforesaid words were calculated to disparage the Plaintiff

in his said profession and/or employment as well as his personal character.

12. The Defendant OMENIHO refuses to retract the aforesaid defamatory words about the

Plaintiff.

13. The Defendants, OPPORTUNITY and REGION IV, as the employers of the Defendant

OMENIHO, refused to take any steps in addressing the aforesaid defamatory words about the

Plaintiff with the Defendant, OMENIHO.

14. The Plaintiff pleads and relies upon the provisions of the Defamation Act, R.S.A. 2000, c. D-

7, the Tort-feasors Act, R.S.A. 2000, c. T -5 and such further and other legislation as deemed fit.

15. The Plaintiff proposes that the Trial of this action be held at the Law Courts Building, in the

City of Edmonton, in the Province of Alberta. The said Trial is not expected to approach or

exceed twenty-five days [Rule 87(c.1): Alberta Rules of Court].


WHEREFORE THE PLAINTIFF, TIM COLLINS, CLAIMS JOINTLY AND

SEVERALLY AGAINST THE DEFENDANTS AS FOLLOWS:

(a) General damages for defamation in the sum of $100,000.00;

(b) Aggravated damages in the sum of $50,000.00;

(c) Exemplary damages in the sum of $50,000.00;

(d) Punitive damages in the sum of $25,000.00;

(e) Special damages as may be proven at trial;

(f) Such further and other damages as may be proven at the trial of this action;

(g) An award sufficient to satisfy any obligation to pay applicable Goods and Services Tax

(G.S.T) on anyamounts awarded pursuant to the terms of the E-\"cise TaxAct, R.S.C. 1985, c.

E-15, Part IX and amendments thereto;

(h) Interest thereupon pursuant to the Judgment Interest Act, R.S.A. 2000, c. J-1.;

(i) Costs of this action; and

(j) Such further and other relief as this Honourable Court deems fit to grant.