Fall 2022's Biigtigong Current. The official newsletter of Biigtigong Nishnaabeg.
October 2022
Issue 005
Inside this Issue
CBA RATIFICATION PROCESS FOR THE MARATHON GENPGM PROJECT
FROM THE PHOTO VAULT - A BLAST FROM THE PAST
COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION (Page 18)
CHIEF'S UPDATE
(Page 6)
(Page 2)
(Page 4)
NEW WATER PROJECT
We are very pleased to announce that we have been successful in securing the necessary funding from Indigenous Services Canada for the construction of a new water treatment facility. As you may be aware, our current water system is at capacity, which results in increased water restrictions and more frequent boil water advisories. With this new
system, the new water intake is directly from Lake Superior and includes the construction of a new treatment facility. It will allow stability in providing water for many years to come and will also allow growth opportunity for our community. The project is estimated to be a 24 month project, with the preliminary work beginning this winter 2022. Miigwech to all who worked on this critical project for our community.
-Chief & Council
Chief's Desk
CHIEF'S UPDATE Submitted by Chief, Duncan Michano Jr. Boozhoo everyone,
Beginning of October, we had our community Moose Camp. Lots of hard work went into setting up, coordinating activities, and planning the meals for this event. Amazing work done by our community members! Coming up, our community will be holding information sessions and going through the process of online voting to approve the Community Benefit Agreement (CBA) that has been negotiated with Generation PGM for the Marathon Palladium Mine. (More information on the CBA Ratification Process on page 4) It’s important that community members be a part of this process and are informed when making their decision. Please check the website for updates as well as each department's Facebook page to stay informed on what's going on in the community. Hope you all have a great Halloween! Love you all, take care. Miigwech
-Chief, Duncan Michano Jr.
REMEMBRANCE DAY NOEVMBER 11, 2022
Collage of BN Veterans submitted by Lila Donaghy
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Council's Corner
PORTFOLIO UPDATE Submitted by Councilor, Sharon Ostberg
Good day Biigtigong Nishnaabeg, just a quick update on what is happening in my council portfolio responsibilities. As Chair of Biigtigong Dbenjgan, I thought I would give you a little history on what it is about and why we have it. Dbenjgan is an umbrella corporation that is owned by our First Nation. Dbenjgan’s mandate is to “generate revenue” and bring that revenue back to the community. We have six staff that look after the administration, such as payroll, inventory, contracts, and finances of the sub-corporations. Revenue is generated, through various sub corporations, these are: Biiwabakoke all things to do with mining, 24 Employees in the labor service agreement with Barminco. Also, under Biiwabakoke we have 72A peninsula, we are presently seeking funding to create an Industrial Laundry Facility mainly for miner cover-all’s, under Vincent Nabigon’s leadership we will continue to see success. Vincent also participated on the negotiations on the CBA with PGM and has done well. GMS Camps and Catering with 4 full time and 2 part time employees. (the buildings on the highway) We have 33% ownership. Presently we have a contract with Barrick until January for complete use of the buildings. Mkwa Contracting , within Mkwa, we have 72B Peninsula, a garage for maintaining our equipment. In construction, we have had a very busy summer and we are still expecting more opportunities to come. As previously mentioned Mkwa Contracting, has been growing, you have seen those big trucks hauling material to the school project, yes those belong to us. The clearing of housing lots, and demolition of older houses was performed by Mkwa. In partnership with LHNorth, Mkwa recently completed the Pic River Bridge restoration. This was a very profitable project which also resulted in a number of our members getting certification in necessary training to work big projects. In the upcoming spring and summer, we will be working with another partner to do the reclamation of the Heron Bay Dump, as well as our regular NFMC road maintenance and plowing, under Wayne Twance’s leadership along with his crew. He does a great job in seeking out opportunities keeping that company busy. In the Energy sector , I have been keeping busy trying to get better rates for our Twin Falls Plant under the new market renewal program. We were recently able to meet with the Minister of Energy and came away with an agreement to have separate negotiations as Indigenous owners of hydro generation stations for both of our plants. This has been a long two-year headache, and I think I am beginning to see light at the end of the tunnel. Other business development that the First Nation has been working on which will generate some revenue and expand our First Nation portfolio, is Giiwa on Court a building in Thunder Bay that will be renovated into affordable housing. This is in partnership with the FWFN, PRDC and Dbenjgan. We have an approved mortgage through CMHC, but there is still some equity to find. Biigtigong and FWFN have also entered another purchase of a building in Innova Park with a full tenant package.
If any community members have any questions or want an opportunity to discuss any of these ventures, please send me an email. sharon.ostberg@picriver.com
REMINDER Councilors, departments, program coordinators, and community members who have projects, upcoming events, stories and/or photos they would like to share in the next community newsletter can contact Cassandra Cress by emailing cassandra.cress@picriver.com. Submissions must be sent in one week prior to the issue release date, to ensure enough time for editing, formatting, and final review. All pieces will be sent back to review before going out to the public. Quarterly Issues Released: January, April, July & October 30th
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COMMUNITY BENEFITS AGREEMENT (CBA) RATIFICATION PROCESS FOR THE MARATHON GENPGM PROJECT
IMPORTANT DATES
November 5 to 12 - Online Ratification Voting Live
Community Benefits Agreement Presentation for Biigtigong Nishnaabeg Members in Thunder Bay October 30th, 6:00 - 9:00pm Valhalla Hotel & Conference Center Community Benefits Agreement Presentation for Biigtigong Nishnaabeg members in community November 1, 2, & 3, 6:00 - 8:00pm Biigtigong Community Hall
November 12 - In-person Community Ratification Vote in Biigtigong Nishnaabeg
Environmental Monitoring and Protection Employment & Training Opportunities Support of the Project Financial Participation for Biigtigong Nishnaabeg The Community Benefits Agreement is the result of years of negotiation with Stillwater Canada Inc. and its successor Generation PGM Inc. and includes extensive environmental protections and community benefits in the following areas: Chief and Council have provided direction that the Community Benefit Agreement (CBA) that has been negotiated with Generation PGM for the Marathon Palladium Mine can be taken to BN membership for consideration through a ratification vote process involving meetings and online voting.
Online Voting Opens November 5th
CCT to present on Crown Accommodations November 8th, 6:00-8:00 pm Biigtigong Community Hall Community Benefits Agreement Presentation for Biigtigong Nishnaabeg Members in Sault Ste. Marie November 10th, 6:00 - 9:00pm Quattro Hotel and Conference Centre Community Ratification Vote (In Person) November 12th, 9:00 - 5:00pm Biigtigong Community Hall
Business & Contracting Opportunities Closure provisions to protect Biigtig Zibii
OneFeather Biigitgong Nishnaabeg has contracted One Feather for the Ratification Vote. This vote will be held both digitally and in person (paper ballots). For members wanting to register for on-line voting, please visit https://www.onefeather.ca/
Please see postings on Biigtigong Nishnaabeg Sustainable Development's Facebook page and at picriver.com/CBA-ratification/ for more information on each session
Please contact Britany Moses if you have any questions: brittany.moses@picriver.com or 807 229 8900 EXT 220 *Please note you must be a registered Biigtigong Nishnaabeg member, over the age of 18 to attend sessions & vote. A piece of photo identification will be required upon entry to sessions. A copy of the Community Benefits Agreement will be made available for supervised viewing by prearrangement with Kim McWatch during the November 5 to November 12 voting period. kim.starr@picriver.com or 807 229 1749
Assistance with Online Voting & Registration
We will have a computer set up at the Sustainable Development building for any community members who need assistance with online registration. Please Contact Suzanne Moses to set up a time to come in: sdadmin@picriver.com or 807-229-8900 EXT 223
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Place Your AD or Community Notice Here! Contact cassandra.cress@picriver.com for submission details
COMMUNITY BULLETIN BOARD
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From The Photo Vault These photos were found in old files at Biigtigong Nishnaabeg's Band Office not too long ago. These images would have been taken at a community Powwow in the early 1990s. This would have been one of the first couple years of holding Powwows at the Mouth of the Pic River. The first two official Powwows held in the community were at the Baseball field in the center of the community.
Community members can send past photos to the Sustainable Development Department to be added to our photo vault for future generations to enjoy.
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NICKLAS MICHANO ATTENDS OAIG Submitted by Mike Michano Here is an update from a community member who participated in The Ontario Indigenous Summer Games that were held in Ottawa over the summer. These games are about much more than just Athletes. It's a bonding experience for youth and helps them find and develop leadership skills that these kids never knew they had. It was great to see my son grow instantly as a leader the moment he stepped into the practice court helping the coach bring a team together who had never even meet off the court before let alone played before. They play 3 very close games against teams that had tryouts of their own and have played together for months. They did manage to pull out as winners in the bronze medal game. Nick took this knowledge home with him and is now using to it help with coaching his own peers in girls and boys' high school sports -Mike Michano (Father & Chaperone)
Wow. Playing basketball in Ottawa is something truly special and I loved every moment and experience from it. Coach Ryan Wright(Professional Basketball Player) had a first impression impact on me and gave me tons of confidence to be being able to play the Point Guard position. I have never played this position in competition before. Him along with my teammates made this an enjoyable experience. It was a tough couple games, from missing the game winning shot and watching the opposite team celebrate as I faulted myself. I had lots of fun playing 4 full quarters, being a leader and huge contributor every time I stepped onto the court. From people who believed in from coach Casey Potter, coach Jordan Cottom, and now coach Ryan Wright. Thank you Biigtigong Dbenjgan, Biiwaabikoke, Biigtigong Nishaabeg for helping make this possible along with some of the greatest friends I could have ever asked for. I will be looking learn from this experience and hope it will be an impact on everybody's life. I live to play sports, I live for my people, and more importantly am proud to be a from Biigtigong Nishaabeg first nation and the small town of Marathon. This is only the beginning and more of what's to come as I mature more and grow. Every moment was breathe taking, especially time to enjoy with my dad who as without a doubt been my biggest supporter and best dad i could ever ask for. As I said it's the beginning of something great to come. I thank the city of Ottawa and my Mom& Dad, coach's, friends. I thank everyone from MTPS, MRHS, and Ottawa Ontario. Thank you. Marathon High School -Nicklas Michano
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Child & Family Learning Center
The past few months have been very busy for the team of the CFLC Program! The staff are more settled in their classrooms with their children and getting the children back into routine. GREETINGS FROM THE CFLC PROGRAM! Submitted by Stephanie Michano-Drover
Currently; our staff: Infant – 2 children with one little one joining us in December – Norma as the Lead ECE
Toddler – 5 children with Kiara as the Lead ECE and Leanne as the EA Preschool – 8 children with Tiffaney as the Lead ECE and Dayna as the EA Native Language and Cultural Worker – Esther Family Outreach Worker – Debbie Resource Consultant – Tristen Janitor – Colleen Maintenance – Louis Supervisor – Stephanie Our Cook, Krystle, has accepted a new position and will be leaving our team! Krystle was with our program for 4 and a 1/2 years! We would like to wish her all the best in her new endeavors! We enjoyed preparing and serving Lunch at Biigtigong’s Community Moose Camp! Our famous and popular Spaghetti was a crowd favorite.
One of the activities planned was the No-Sew Fleece Hat Making! Participants enjoyed making the hats. If you’re interested in making a hat; contact the program and we will put a kit together for you!
Some of our activities planned were postponed due to the weather and being a part of the harvesting of one of the moose that was hunted. We will be hosting our Giftcard Bingo in the near future! Posters and information will be posted and shared to Department Social Media Groups!
Miigwech - Stephanie
BOOZHOO FROM THE CULTURE AND LANGUAGE PROGRAM Submitted by Esther We had a great time out at Moose Camp with our families and community! It was so nice to see so many out at
Moose Camp! Our team made our popular Spaghetti for the families and Community! Miigwech to the many people who helped to make Biigtigong Moose Camp a success!
We will be doing some workshops for the families! Watch for the posters! We are planning: Rattle Making, Drum and Stick Making; possibly Sewing skirts and shirts.
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Good day from our Outreach Program. Up-coming programs are Family Esso Math, which is a 6 week program with fun learning activities for the children and family to do together, there are 6 families registered. Traditional Parenting, will be another 6 to 8 week program. Cooking and a craft activity will be once a month, all witch will be through zoom. Our COHI Program is on going every Wednesday’s at the Health Center with the Dental Hygienist, you can call the health Center if you would like to make an appointment, we will also be doing the students and the children from the Children & Family Learning Center. We will be doing screening, fluoride treatment and she will do sealants. FAMILY OUTREACH PROGRAM Submitted by Debbie Crosson
PRESCHOOL NEWS Submitted by Tiffaney and Dayna
Greetings from the Preschool Room! Our Preschoolers love to dance and listen to music. We have daily dance parties to strengthen their gross motor skills and musicality. A classroom favorite is the "Going on a Bear Hunt" song. This has also opened up conversation about the natural world and Bears habits. We are looking forward to exploring bears further this month and making a "story-in- bag" for the children to bring home to tell their families the Bear Hunt story.
We’re going on a bear hunt. (x2) We’re going to catch a big one. (x2) I’m not scared. (x2) Oh, look at those tall reeds! They’re so tall!
We can’t go over it. (x2) We can’t go under it. (x2) We’ll have to go through it! Swish, swish, swish, swish. We’re going on a bear hunt. (x2) We’re going to catch a big one. (x2) I’m not scared. (x2) Uh oh, there’s a big lake! Oh! We can’t go over it. (x2) We can’t go under it. (x2) We’ll have to swim through it. Splash, splash, splash, splash. We’re going on a bear hunt. (x2) We’re going to catch a big one. (x2) I’m not scared. (x2) Ugh, look at all that mud! So muddy! We can’t go over it. (x2) We can’t go under it. (x2) We’ll have to walk through it. Squish, squish, squish, squish. We’re going on a bear hunt. (x2) We’re going to catch a big one. (x2) I’m not scared. (x2) Uh oh, what’s that? It’s a cave. It’s a cave! We can’t go over it. (x2) We can’t go under it. (x2) Going to have to go into it. Step, step, step, step. We’re going on a bear hunt. (x2) We’re going to catch a big one. (x2) I’m not scared. I’m a little scared. It’s sure is dark in here. What’s that in the corner? I see two big eyes. (x2) I feel one wet nose. (x2) I feel two sharp teeth. (x2) I know what that is. It’s a bear! Let’s get out of here! Let’s run out of the cave! Step, step, step. Quickly back through the mud! Squish, squish, squish.
As always be safe, be happy and be positive! -Debbie Crosson
TODDLER ROOM NEWS Submitted by Kiara and Leanne
This month we welcomed new friends into our classroom, we have been exploring changes of the season. Our main focus was on fall and moose hunting/camp, doing lots of crafts with fall colours and moose. We’ve also been spending a lot of time with the kids outside going on nature walks
Let’s cross the lake! Splash, splash, splash. Through the tall reeds! Swish, swish, swish.
Through the yard, up the stairs, into the house, close the door! We’re safe. That’s a close one. Let’s not go bear hunting anymore!
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Endzhi-gkinoohmaading
MATH AND LITERACY UPDATE Submitted by Mrs. S
Boozhoo! I am happy to be back in the role of Lead Math and Literacy teacher this year. This role includes looking at the current math and literacy programming within our school and its implementation in classes, addressing student learning needs and offering support to students and teachers, helping in classrooms during programming, as well as assessing and analyzing student data to inform teaching and support practices. My office is located downstairs by the Resource Room. So far, things have gotten off to a good start, as math and literacy programming are well on their way in all classes. We are currently updating our literacy assessment scores and mental math assessments to understand better where each student is at, to help plan programming and meet student needs. In addition to being the Lead Math and Literacy teacher, I will also fill in for your child’s teacher when needed, so you may hear your child say that Mrs. S was their teacher. As covid-19 restrictions are lifting, I am excited to be able to visit each class this year and interact with students. Miigwech! Mrs. S
PRINCIPALS UPDATE Submitted by Rhonda Lyons
Boozhoo everyone!
We are excited to get started and look forward to what a new year of learning will bring. I was taught to begin things in a good way, so what better way to begin the new year than in ceremony. Before the first day of school started, staff participated in a ceremony at the Turtle Lodge. We prayed, we sang, we feasted and shared our goals for the year. We welcomed new staff to the team: Erica Pringle (grade 3 / 4 teacher), Nick Duplessis (Phys ed teacher), Parker Bell (educational assistant). Since then, additional staff have joined: Samantha Kelly (Student Support Worker), Jessica Desmoulin (Lunch club/After school worker), Josephine Nabigon (temp. administrative assistant), and Keiarra Henderson (educational assistant). We all look forward to this last year in this school with fun and laughter. Open House occurred on September 20th with 28 parents and guardians attending. They enjoyed visiting the classrooms and viewing the school’s outside area. School programming will consist of after school club and other extra-curricular activities. Information will be posted in the Remind app of the events. It will be exciting to learn new skills; as I am excited to learn about gardening and sewing. As the weather is getting colder, please ensure your child is dressed warmly. If you have any other ideas for extra-curricular activities and want to share your skill with our students, we look forward to hearing your input for future learning opportunities.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION Submitted by Nick
My name is Nick and I am the new Physical Education and Health teacher for the entire school. The opportunity to work with each age group provides an incredible opportunity to teach a range of skills, movements, and techniques, play and practise different sports, and try to improve our health and fitness as a class. In September, our classes focused on cooperative games that emphasize teamwork and collaboration, sportsmanship, fair play, and active participation. We are now working on developing our throwing and receiving skills, and will soon be moving into specific sport units, such as basketball and volleyball. We also have swimming booked at the Port Hole Pool in Marathon in the last two weeks of November.
STUDENT SUCCESS UPDATE Submitted by Sam Kelly
Boohzoo! Sam ndishnikaaz! I am the new student success coach here at Biigtigong Nishnaabeg Elementary. I currently live in Marathon with my partner Greg and my dog Walker! I am beyond excited to be working at the school and hope to get to know all of you soon. My main focus will be to ensure your child’s success in all areas of well- being, and to be a support or guide when they need one at school. I can be contacted directly at the school or by email at samantha.kelly@picriver.com, do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions! Miigwetch, Sam In the spirit of Halloween, here is a photo with me and the best Mario in all of the lands!
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SPECIAL EDUCATION UPDATE Submitted by Mrs. Green
Hello all! I hope everyone is having a smooth start to their school year. This year, I am the Special Education Resource Teacher and have the pleasure of working with students in all grade levels. It’s been wonderful to catch up with students and hear about all of their summer adventures. For the month of September, I’ve been familiarizing myself with new resources, completing student assessments, and working with reading groups. I had a great experience spending time with students and families at Moose Camp. As the year progresses, I will continue to work with students for guided reading, Speech and Language interventions, Occupational Therapy related activities, and help out wherever is needed. See you around! Mrs. Green
We are excited to welcome all of new students to the school this year. We have a very busy classroom with 14 students this year! So far we have been getting into the routines school. Moose Camp was really great as we’ve been counting down the days until “Moose time” and learning about all the characteristics of this magnificent animal. It was great to see them up close and eat some yummy meat. As we were just getting back from our time out at camp we were on the go again as we journeyed to Thunder Bay, Ontario to visit Gammondale Pumpkin Farm for a day of fun. We rode a farm tractor, had duck races, climbed hay bales and even went through a spooky “Boo Barn”. We were most excited about hand-picking our very own pumpkin to take home…and stopping for Happy Meals on the way home! We can’t wait to share all of our adventures with you all in the coming months! GREETINGS BIIGTIGONG FROM THE KINDERGARTEN CLASSROOM! Submitted by Miss Amy & Miss Candace
Miss Amy & Miss Candace And the 2022/2023 Kindergarten Class
BOOZHOO FROM THE GRADES 1 AND 2 CLASS! Submitted by Ms. Bell
What a great year we have had thus far! We have two new wonderful additions to our classroom family. These two students have managed to join our class with ease. Everyone in the class has been learning our daily routines and enjoy singing during our morning calendar time. The class has also been learning a variety of sight word songs with actions that they enjoy singing and dancing along with. During math, most of the students regularly participate in our Math Talks and seem to be improving their mental math skills. I think one of the highlights for each of the students is their time at moose camp. They enjoyed going for quad rides and hunting with their families, they especially enjoyed playing Mantracker in the evenings. It was delightful to see each of them enjoying the land and learning their traditional ways of life. We are excited to continue to get know one another and to continue to learn together.
Miigwetch, S. Bell, Geri and the grade ½ students
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GRADE 3/4 UPDATE Submitted by Erica Pringle
The Grade ¾ Class has had an incredible start to the school year. September has flown by and after Moose Camp all students have settled back into the groove of our classroom routine. In Math we have been working on place value, addition and subtraction strategies as well as mental math skills. Our class is gaining confidence in their work and practising independence. In language we have been working on summarising stories and have completed writing workshops on Moose Camp topics. We are planning to compile a book for any new teachers on what to expect at moose camp including: photos, artwork and some of the other things we learned along the way. We are excited to share this with you, and I am looking forward to watching our classroom community grow. As a class, we wanted to learn about the different moose meat cuts so we did a scavenger hunt to put together the puzzle (Figure 1). For art, we divided a Bull into the different cuts and we used different lines and patterns to fill in the shapes (Figure 2.) GOOD DAY FROM THE GRADE 5 AND 6 CLASS Submitted by Miss Marie
(Figure 1.)
(Figure 2.)
We’ve been busy getting into the groove of our daily routines. We have been freshing up on our addition, subtraction, and multiplication skills during math. In Literacy, the students have been getting into the routines of Daily Five. During our writing block, they have been working on our opinion writing unit and making their learning goal to be more descriptive in their writing. In preparation for Moose Camp, the students researched all the exciting moose facts and composed a poster to display their findings. While at Moose Camp, they enjoyed spending quality time with their families, going out into the bush to hunt for partridge, and participating in the morning ceremonies.
Miigwetch. Miss Marie & Grade 5/6 Class
HELLO FROM THE GRADE 7/8 CLASS! Submitted by Miss Marie
We have had an extremely busy start to our school year! September and October were full of activities, excursions and land based learning experiences. In Literacy, we have been focussing on reviewing reading comprehension skills and have begun our persuasive writing unit. Furthermore, we spent the month of September learning about the impacts Residential school had on language, culture and identity. In Math we have been working on Number Sense and Numeration, reviewing our four basic operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication and division). At home, parents and guardians can help their students by practicing their fact fluency, specifically multiplication and division facts. In Science, students have been learning about fire and its importance to the Anishinaabe people. We have discussed the various roles of fire (Sacred and for survival), studied the fire triangle and examined all of the different components needed to start successful fires for survival. Students then had the opportunity to build their own fires and participate in the boil water challenge during Phys. Ed with Mr. Nick and Lucas. Students also had the chance to complete their canoe certification down at Hattie Cove, where they learnt canoe safety and basic paddling maneuvers. This certification sure came in handy when we traveled to Thunder Bay for Rice camp at the end of September! The class worked hard to harvest and process wild rice, and also enjoyed their time carving cedar ricing sticks. As always, it was great to spend time out at Moose Camp with the students, and see them learning from the land, knowledge keepers, community members and each other. We look forward to seeing what other adventures are in store for us this year!
Warmly, Miss B, Mel, Parker and the grade 7/8 students.
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RESOURCE TEACHER UPDATE Submitted by Tristen Happy Fall! Throughout the past month, I have been working on becoming familiar and settling into my new role as the Resource Teacher at CFLC. I’ve had the chance to participate in the infant, toddler, and preschool classroom, building trusting and supportive relationships with each child within each classroom. Participating in class activities in the preschool room, singing songs with the toddlers in the toddler room, and going on walks with the infant room children are just some of the activities that we have done. Although my role as changed, I am still excited that I have the opportunity to work with each student, more in-depth and in collaboration with the teachers and supervisors within the CFLC, as well as outside help such as from the Speech and Language Pathologist. I look forward to learning the role of Resource Teacher more as I go along,and look forward to working with everyone! Have a great rest of the season!
INFANT ROOM Submitted by Norma Welcome from the Infant Room
We have been working on getting to know each other and getting a routine down for each child.This month we’ll be working Fall colors, going for walks, playing in the playground, building on each of their skills and learning new ones. Some of the skills include; walking, eating, and playing. Looking forward to a great year with our babies!
FIVE LITTLE PUMPKINS SITTING ON A GATE
Five little pumpkins sitting on a gate The first one said, “Oh, my it’s getting late” The second one said, “There are witches in the air” The third one said, “But we don’t care” The fourth one said, “Let’s run and run and run” The fifth one said, “We’re ready for some fun” Then “Ooh” went the wind and out went the lights And the five little pumpkins rolled out of sight Why don’t we do it again? You sing along with me this time Five little pumpkins sitting on a gate The first one said, “Oh, my it’s getting late” The second one said, “There are witches in the air” The third one said, “But we don’t care” The fourth one said, “Let’s run and run and run” And the fifth one said, “We’re ready for some fun” Then “Ooh” went the wind and out went the lights And the five little pumpkins rolled out of sight
-Tristen
BIIGTIGONG MNO-ZHI-YAAWGAMIG
GREETINGS FROM THE HOME VISITING NURSE
Submitted by Jennifer Pelletier, Home Visiting Nurse Good day Biitigong Nishnaabeg Community Members,
My name is Jennifer Pelletier and I am the temporary Home Visiting Nurse. I am new to working in the community and new to the community itself.So far I have been able to participate in Moose camp, vaccine clinic and meeting new faces. My role at Biitigong Mno-Zhi-Yaaw-gamig is providing safe, efficient nursing care to the elderly and home care clients. I have been a Licensed Practical Nurse/Registered Practical Nurse since 2015. One of the main reasons behind becoming a nurse was mostly because my grandmother/grandfather were in and out of the hospital and I was able to see the care and respect that they were given from the nurses. I have experience in mostly Acute Care facilities; Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, General Surgery, Gastro-Intestinal, Long-term care and Chronic Care. I am a First Nations Cree Aboriginal from Cowessess First Nation in Saskatchewan. I recently moved to Northern Ontario in 2020 and reside in Marathon with my family; My partner, Andrew, and our two young children, Emily (5) and Robert (1). The past two years have been quite busy with exploring and learning the area, getting to know new people, moving into our forever home and being parents to two very busy kids. If you see me out in the community, please introduce yourself, say a quick “hello” or feel free to stop by the clinic. Miigwech.
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SHARPS CONTIANERS Submitted by Melodie Touchette, Acting Health Director Good day Biigtigong Nishnaabeg! Did you know that Biigtigong Mno-zhi-yaawgamig provides sharps container for you at no cost? Did you know that you can bring us your full sharps container at no cost?
Used needles and lancets (the needle that pokes your finger when you checked your blood sugars) can carry infections such as HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and other blood borne diseases. When placed into the garbage, it puts others health at risk because they can then be exposed to injuries from the needles. What do I do if I get a needle stick injury? 1 - Allow injury to bleed 2 - Rinse under tap water as soon as possible 3 - Call the hospital and inform them of a needle stick injury and let them know that you will be presenting to emergency. If you know the person with whom the needle/ lancet belonged to, it would be beneficial if you had a health history from them. DO NOT place sharps in the garbage and USE a sharps container. Come on over and we will gladly supply you with a sharps container. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact me at 229-1836 ext.603 -Melodie Touchette RN
NIHB MILEAGE RATES INCREASED OCTOBER 1, 2022
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SOME HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS YEAR Submitted by The Biigtigong Social Services Team Boozhoo from the Social Service Team,
We want to share some of our favorite memories caught from recent community events, Bear Grease making, Miin Gbeshwin, National Truth & Reconciliation Day, and Moose Camp. Our team hopes that you and your family enjoy our programming and we are always open to suggestions. Please reach out to the social service team for individual and family support, outreach or for a cup of tea. Miigwetch
Mshkiki
Community Moose Camp 2022
Orange Shirt Day 2022
Miingbeshwin 2022
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sustainable development
BN COMMUNICATION VIDEOS Submitted by Cassandra Cress, Consultation & Governance Officer
Connection / Relationship to the Land Land Claim History / Aboriginal Title Land Selection Biigtigong Nishnaabeg Sustainable Development is in the process of creating three videos that will reflect our community values on, These videos will be used in future consultation sessions, including in our community's Land Claim Process, as a way to show others how we operate and who we are as a Nation. In early October, we invited Shared Value Solutions (SVS), an organization assisting with this project, to Biigtigong's Community Moose Camp to capture some interviews with community members. SVS captured a ton of great footage during this time, now we are looking at filling in the "gaps" and ensuring we have captured all the information we need. All community members are welcome to contact us to be interviewed on the above topics. We have also recorded community members speaking about other projects they find important to the community, such as Language reconstruction, our Aadsookaanan, the Summer Youth Leadership Gathering, Health and Wellness initiatives, and any other
projects/programming that have been developed and driven by our community values. We hope to include as many different stories and opinions in these videos as possible! Please contact me for more information or to set up a time to record. cassandra.cress@picriver.com or 807 299 8900 EXT 222
NEW AQUATIC MONITORING TECHNICIAN Submitted by Greg Petten, Aquatic Technician
Greg was recently hired as the Aquatic Monitoring Technician and will be joining the Sustainable Development department. He is a member of the Netmizaaggamig Nishnaabeg / Pic Mobert band and has lived in the area most of his life. Greg studied environmental science at Sault College and graduated with diplomas in Fish and Wildlife Management and Integrated Resource Management. He has 15 years experience in environmental monitoring, water management, and working with local communities. Greg is looking forward to working with Biigtigong Nishnaabeg members and the Sustainable Development department team. MUSKY PROJECT UPDATE Submitted by Kierstin Kwissiwa, Field Technician Biigtigong Nishnaabeg partnered with the Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre (A/OFRC) to complete a 3- year muskellunge spawning and movement study on the Pic River water system. This project started in September of 2021 and continued in June of 2022. Seasonal and permanent telemetry receivers were put in place to track muskellunge movement and a target of 20 fish to be acoustically tagged was set. Muskellunge were successfully captured using fishing rods and 24-hour set drift nets in the fall of 2021 and 2022. Spawning activity and success will also be measured in the Spring of 2023, using D-frame nets, quatrefoil light traps and egg mats. All the muskellunge caught were first identified to be a recapture or a new fish. If a new fish was identified the muskellunge would be tagged with both a Floy and PIT tag as well as surgically implanted with an acoustic tag. In addition, site data was taken at each net set and muskellunge capture site. This included UTM coordinates, date and time, water and air temperature, % cloud cover, precipitation, lure type and boat speed (when trolling). In the month of June and July a total of 9 seasonal and 8 acoustic release telemetry receivers were set in the Pic River water system and adjoining tributaries. Of the 17 receivers set, 4 of them were deployed in the Black River, 2 in the Little Black River, 2 in the mouth of the Pic River, 1 in Hattie Cove and the remaining 8 in the Pic River. There are 4 acoustic tags left to be implanted in Pic River muskie which should be completed in 2023. Acoustic telemetry receivers should continue to be monitored and replaced in coming years to get an idea of where muskie are spawning and what time of year they are utilizing different parts of the river system.
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October 2022
The Biigtigong Current
UNDRIP - UNITED NATIONS DECLARATION ON THR RIGHTS OF INDIGENOUS PEOPLES Submitted by Cassandra Cress, Consultation & Governance Officer The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) is a universal framework of minimum standards for the rights, self-determination, survival, dignity, and well-being of Indigenous Peoples. Existing international human rights agreements already apply to Indigenous Peoples. UNDRIP makes the case that Indigenous peoples may need special protections, and outlines those rights in this declaration. UNDRIP contains 46 articles that address both collective and individual rights. UNDRIP reaffirms Indigenous Peoples are free and equal to all other peoples and individuals and have the right to be free of any kind of discrimination. UNDRIP is an international declaration by the United Nations and its member states. Canada enshrined UNDRIP into Canadian domestic law through the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act in 2021.
UNDRIP Reaffirms:
Basic human rights of Indigenous Peoples Rights to self determination Right to practice culture, language and traditions Right to create own education systems Right to receive restitution for stolen lands Self-determination and decision-making that affects lands, rights and interests
What does UNDRIP mean for First Nations? UNDRIP and Canada’s UNDRIP Act are tools for Indigenous Nations to hold Canada and Ontario accountable for their obligations to relationship, management of lands and resources, and decision-making. It remains unclear how exactly the Crown-Indigenous relationship will evolve under the new legislation. Biigtigong Nishnaabeg has the opportunity to set expectations of what that relationship will look like. Get Involved! Biigtigong Nishnaabeg is participating in Canada’s consultation on its UNDRIP Action Plan. We want to hear from our members about your priorities and ideas for UNDRIP actions that align with our goals for self-governance and to maintain our sovereignty. Please keep an eye on Sustainable Development's Facebook page and to other postings for future community sessions. For more information or to share any ideas, contact Cassandra Cress, Consultation and Governance at 807-229-8900 x 222 or Cassandra.Cress@picriver.com
NEW SUSTAINABLE DEVLOPMENT DEPARTMENT LOGO! Biigtigong Nishnaabeg Sustainable Development's new logo was designed by Danielle Robinson, a talented artist from the community! Danielle has also designed the logo and banner for the Biigtigong Current, the logo for Biigtigong's Youth Leadership Gathering, and designed the poster for this year's community Powwow.
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October 2022
The Biigtigong Current
BIIGTIGONG VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION!
We invite community members to submit a name of who they feel should be recognized for their volunteerism (from past or present work) in Biigtigong Nishnaabeg. Please send in the person's full name, a photo if available, and reason why you believe this person should be recognized to cassandra.cress@picriver.com.
Frank Moses
Frank served on the Pic River Fire Department. Back then, Pic 50 firefighter. Driver, Trainer, Pump Operator, and Deputy Chief for years. He served for 30 plus years. Frank and two other travelled to St. Thomas, just outside Toronto in the 1980s to get the first fire truck for the community. And in 1990, he was much involved in acquiring the 2nd pumper truck. Frank and a group started fundraising for the Fire Department to renovate the fire hall and install an addition for a Training Centre. He was much involved and spent countless hours at the fire department. He was much dedicated to the department to the department for years he spent there between work and volunteering. Don't know how he did it. For this I think he deserves Volunteer recognition.
"While we slept, he kept the community safe."
-Submitted by Kathleen Moses
*The Pic River Fire Department is always looking for more volunteers. If you are over 18 and interested in helping out, you can show up at their practices that take place at the Fire Hall on Tuesdays at 6:30pm or contact Fire Chief, Leo Twance.
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October 2022
The Biigtigong Current
GREETINGS FROM THE PIC RIVER APS DETACHMENT! Submitted by Cst. Jolene Michano During the months of August and September the Pic River detachment responded to 60 calls for service varying from Community Services, R.I.D.E initiatives, Property Checks and Criminal Investigations to name a few. If you require police assistance please call 911 or 1-888-310-1122. For non-police matters please call the Pic River detachment at 229-2242. Staffing The Pic River detachment consists of the following staff:
COMING UP...
Cash BINGO Saturday, November 5 Doors Open at 12:00 pm @ Biigtigong Community Center Community Astronomy Night Saturday, November 5 6:30 - 9:30 pm @ Biigtigong Community Center Elder's Social & Photo Session Sunday, November 6 12:00 - 3:00 pm @ The Turtle Lodge
Sgt. Warren Bouchie (temporarily off until December 2022) D/S/Sgt. Tony Hanson
Cst. Andrew Kreidl (Month of November A/Sgt) Cst. Jolene Michano (Month of October A/Sgt) Cst. Chris Palmer( Month of September A/Sgt)
Cst. Braiden Michano Cst. Dawson Nootchai Court Administrator Erin Shaw
In August of 2022 the Anishinabek Police Service welcomed our new Chief Jeff Skye with a swearing in ceremony held on September 1, 2022 in Sault Ste. Marie. On October 17, 2022 the Pic River/Pic Mobert Cluster would like to welcome our newest officer Cst. Dawson Nootchtai. (photo from L -> R Cst. Nootchtai and Chief Skye) On August 23, 2022 Cst. Jolene Michano and Cst. Palmer along with Pic River Volunteer Fire Department and Marathon EMS hosted a First Responders Day with the youth from day camp. The youth were shown live demonstrations from the various responders and provided with swag. A BBQ was also held for those in attendance. This opportunity gave the youth an opportunity to meet various responders and learn about their jobs in a calming environment and not just when needed. (photo of group) On August 31, 2022 all female officers within the Anishinabek Police Service were gifted a ribbon skirt in lieu of their #1 dress pants. A ceremony was held for all female officers on August 31, 2022 at Headquarters in Garden River. (photo courtesy of Sgt. Bressette).
Remembrance Day Friday, November 11 @ Biigtigong Community Center
REMINDER Email your important dates to: cassandra.cress@picriver.com
With Halloween approaching please make sure your children are visible and wear some type of reflective clothing. There will be many little ghosts and goblins on the road, so please use caution and drive slow. Stay Safe!
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October 2022
The Biigtigong Current
Quarterly Issues: January 30th
April 30th July 30th October 30th
To submit a piece for our next newsletter, or if you have any questions, please contact Cassandra Cress. Write-ups and photos must be submitted 1 week before issue release date (The Monday prior to release date).
Cassandra Cress Consultation & Governance Officer cassandra.cress@picriver.com (807) 229-8900 Ext 222
Logo and banner designed by Danielle Robinson
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