Okanagan Nation Conference

“Unity Principles”

This conference is the third in it’s series and will focus on regional economic de-velopment of all the mem-ber bands

Date: January 24-25, 2006 Location: Lakeside Hotel, Penticton BC

To register or for more

information please contact the ONA:

Charlotte Armstrong Tel: (250) 707-0095

carmstrong@syilx.org

Okanagan Nation Hunting & Wildlife

Workshop

All community members, Elders and Leadership are invited to discuss issues affecting Okanagan Nation Hunters

Date: December 14-15

Please see Posters for

Location

To register or more infor-mation please contact the

ONA: Charlotte Armstrong

To add your event please fax them to (250) 707-

0166 or email to carmstrong@syilx.org

Christmas Tree Fund A time for our children

Christmas Tree Fund, A time for our children (originally Upper Nicola Community Club) is ac-tively fundraising for our annual Christmas Party on December 11, 2005. We fundraise and Santa gives out presents to the New-borns and students to Grade 12. Upcoming Fundraising Events: Turkey Bingo/Bake Sale 1:00 December 4th The Christmas Tree Com-mittee would like to wish everyone a Merry Christ-mas and Happy New Year

Free Okanagan Nation Subscription

Please call, email or mail your name and address to

the ONA Office

Okanagan Language Classes

6:00 Wednesdays Sensisyusten Community Center, Westbank BC

“One day for our children”

Presented by APFA

November 28th, 2005 9am-4pm

Sensisyusten Community Centre

For more info please call

Dan Odenbach at (250) 707-0095

OKANAGAN NATION ALLIANCE:

3255C SHANNON LAKE

RD. WESTBANK, BC V4T 1V4

TEL:(250) 707-0095

FAX: (250) 707-0166

www.syilx.org

Blueprint for the Future Career Fair

Presented by the Nation Aboriginal Achievement Foundation. Date: January 25, 2006 Location: Vancouver Con-vention and Exhibition Cen-tre Cost: No registration fees are charged to schools or organizations for having their youth groups attend but groups are responsible for their own transportation For more information please see the website at:

http://www.naaf.ca/bluep.html

6th Annual Arts & Crafts Bazaar

Presented by En’Owkin and

IASO Date: Saturday Dec. 10th 10 am—5pm Location: En’Owkin Gath-ering Space, Lot 45 Green Mtn. Road, Penticton BC Only a limited amount of tables will be sold $30 sm. table 2x4 $40 lg. table 2x6 For more information please contact:

Tracy Jack or Anna Lizotte

Tel: (250) 493-7181

Upcoming Events / Notices

Please Remember to

Contact your local band office for upcoming

Christmas and community events

ONA/CCT Cross Border Meeting, Nk’Mip October 28th Group ~Photo Courtesy of Frank Falkus

Meeting in Progress at Nk’Mip Cellars ~Photo Courtesy of Frank Falkus

of a passport. There are a few other First Nation groups that issue their own passport. The Six Nations or Haudeno-saynee Confederacy made up of the Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, Seneca and Tuscarora issue their own passports through the Grand Council at Onondaga. Individuals present a letter from their nation citizenship registry to the council where the chiefs approve the issu-ance of a passport. The pass-ports are stamped with their own seal. These passports are recognized in 39 different countries. More meetings are planned for the near future! The AFN is also coordinating a National border crossing meeting with further infor-mation to be announced.

Okanagan Nation Alliance’s Chief’s Executive Council met with the Business Coun-cil of the Colville Confeder-ated Tribes on October 28, 2005 to discuss border cross-ing issues.

There are many Okanagans who have experienced diffi-culty when crossing the bor-der. In the post 9/11 environ-ment and stricter border crossing regulations from the American Homeland Securi-ties, individuals from Canada will potentially have to carry passports when crossing the border. Representatives from both sides stated that despite the border, we are the same peo-ple, we share the same lan-guage and a border does not

change that. ONA Executive Director stated in the meeting “We are talking about the recognition of our citizen-ship; we don’t need to say that we’re Canadian, we should be able to say we’re

Okanagan and be rec-ognized for this.” From this meeting, research teams from both or-ganizations will pre-pare further information on the idea

ONA/CCT Business Council

OKANAGAN NATION ALLIANCE:

3255C SHANNON

LAKE RD. WESTBANK, BC

V4T 1V4

TEL:(250) 707-0095 FAX: (250) 707-0166

www.syilx.org

Fall Edition 2005 Inside this issue:

Chairman’s Message 2

ONA Executive Director

3

UBC-Okanagan Wel-come Ceremony

4

Aboriginal People’s Fam-ily Accord

5

Okanagan River Sockeye 6

Okanagan River Chi-nook

7

BC First Nations Moun-tain Pine Beetle Action

8

Mobile Family Group 9

Nysilcn Language 10

Salmon Feast 11

Upcoming Events 14

New Relationship 12

Evening of Inspiration 13

Message from the Chairman ~ Chief Stewart Phillip

Elders, Traditional and Spiritual Leaders, Native Women & Youth, Chiefs and Councilors, Brothers and Sisters. On behalf of myself and my family, I would like to take this opportunity to convey our warmest greetings and best wishes. As you recall, within the context of my last ONA Chair-man’s report, I reported on the signing of the historic Leadership Accord on March 17, 2005 between the Union of BC Indian Chiefs, the First Nations Summit and the BC Assembly of First Nations. The Leadership Accord has given rise to the establishment of the BC First Nations Leadership Council (BCFNLC) which is comprised of myself, Chief Robert Shintah, Chief Mike Retasket (UBCIC); Grand Chief Ed John, Grand Chief Doug Kelly and Dave Porter (First Nations Summit) and Regional Chief Shawn Atleo (BCAFN). Since my last newsletter report many political develop-ments have taken place. Subsequent to the relatively re-cent Provincial Election, Premier Gordon Campbell and his Cabinet have committed to developing a “New Rela-tionship” with the First Nations of BC. In this regard the Provincial Government has endorsed Vision, Principles, Goals & Objectives and basic Strategic Plan reflected within the “New Relationship Document” which was hammered out during negotiations between the Province (Premier’s Office, Attorney General’s Office and Provin-cial Government officials) and members of the BC First Nations Leadership Council (BCFNLC). Members of the BC First Nations Leadership Council (BCFNLC) were invited to Government House by the Lieutenant-Governor to witness the swearing in of Cabinet on September 8, 2005. During the course of Premier Campbell’s remarks, he expressed strong support for the vision and principles of the New Relationship. On Sep-

tember 12th and 14th, we were invited to the Legisla-ture to witness the Throne Speech which once again expressed a strong commitment to the New Relation-ship and on September 14th the Finance Minister an-nounced $100 Million New Relationship Fund. The First Nations Summit discussed these develop-ments during the course of their quarterly meeting on September 28thm 29th and 30th. The UBCIC dis-cussed these matters at our AGA on October 12th and 13th. Finally, the BC Assembly of First Nations held a special General Assembly and 140 First Nations gath-ered in Kamloops on October 17th, 18th and 19th to collectively discuss the significance of the New Rela-tionship and the purpose, function and the allocation and distribution issues connected to the New Relation-ship Fund. On November 25, 2005, the First Ministers (Premiers) and Prime Minister shall convene a First Ministers Meeting (FMM) in Okanagan Nation terri-tory in Kelowna. This meeting arose out the Can-ada/Aboriginal Round Table process that began over one year ago. A Political Accord was signed between the Assembly of First Nations National Chief Phil Fontaine and Prime Minister Paul Martin. The Gov-ernment of Canada has pledged to eradicate poverty in First Nations communities over a ten year period. The process and discussion shall focus on Health, Hous-ing, Education, Inter-Governmental Relationships and Economic Development. The Canada/Aboriginal Roundtable process and the upcoming First Ministers meeting in Kelowna were discussed at the AFN AGA in Yellowknife NWT on July 5th, 6th, and 7th 2005 and more recently at an AFN Special Chiefs Assembly which was recently held in Regina, Saskatchewan on October 31st, November 1st and 2nd. I would just like to take a moment to express my appreciation to the Okanagan Indian Band for sending delegates to the meeting in Regina. These are important political issues that require the full and complete attention of the Okanagan Nation. In closing, on behalf of the Okanagan Nation, I would like to convey our deepest sympathies to the Paul and Gabriel families in Penticton in relation to their recent losses. Also, I would like to offer a prayer for the safety, health and well-being of all our Elders and Youth. Wai Lim Limpt

Page 2

~Photo Courtesy of Frank Falkus

Page 15 Fall Edition 2005

Presents

~Building Sustainable Aboriginal Communities~

The third conference in the

Unity Principle series

January 24 & 25, 2006

Penticton Lakeside Resort Convention Centre 21 Lakeshore Dr. West, Penticton BC V2A 7M5

“Sustainable Economic Development initiatives can help accu-mulate assets and create access to financial prosperity that can be reinvested to build healthy communities through social, rec-reational and cultural programs while addressing capacity building, job creation and long-term sustainable employment."

Page 14

The National Museum of the American Indian’s Com-munity Services Department is proud to announce that Rose Alexis, a member of the Okanangan Indian Band has received an internship appointment for the summer, 2005. Ms. Alexis is a senior at Malaspina University majoring in First Nations Studies. She is also working towards a diploma in Cultural Resource Management from the University of Victoria. Her internship in-volves learning about collections management practices at NMAI and preparing for the major special exhibition The internship program, established in 1994, is de-signed to provide an educational opportunity for stu-

dents in the area of museum practice and related pro-gramming through guided work/research experiences using the resources of the National Museum of the American Indian and other Smithsonian offices. Through a competitive application process, a review panel recommends candidates to be invited to partici-pate as an intern. Past internship opportunities have been in curatorial, exhibitions, collections manage-ment, public programs, education, film and video, community services, repatriation and development in our Washington, DC, Suitland, MD and New York City offices. To date the museum has hosted 300 interns.

Rose Alexis awarded Internship at Smithsonian

Book Review: Indigenous American Women by D. Mihesuah

Reviewed by: Michelle Jack (masheraz@myway.com) In her introduction Devon Mihesuah explains that she writes out of her “concern about tribal America.” (p. xi) I would say she has intentions of applying this knowl-edge to Indigenous people within the US and Canada if not all of North America. She covers a wide range of subject matter in a relatively short book or 246 pages. She addresses many of the concerns of Native scholars, activists, and community members in this volume. In the three sections of the book she looks at deep issues and the fallout of colonialism and how it applies to Na-tives in many different social locations, the community member at home and those away at college or in the “outside” world. I appreciate her attempt at addressing so many different related subjects and how they can ap-ply to everyday life while this book is very academic, she takes into account narrative, oral, and elder voices. In Part 1: Research and Writing Mihesuah ad-dresses many concerns Native students have about doing research and how we can do our best to challenge the university academic procedures when they hinder our research and prevent traditional sources from being con-sidered as valid. She also examines new problematic works by Anglo/White scholars that, however good in-tentioned, could cause serious harm to gains made against stereotypes of Native peoples and expectations of non-Native audiences. In Part 2: Colonialism and Native Women Mi-hesuah looks at the complexities of colonization and how those problems not only affect our Native women but Native people as a whole today. She points out posi-tive and negative coping strategies of Native women and Native people in general and how this is related to many

problems in our communities. She is realistic about the problems that Native women face and the deep repair that needs to continue to happen. In Part 3: Activists and Feminists Mihesuah looks at the fallout of colonization and shows how past and present activism in the Native community has been both problematic and effective. She sheds light on a point of view that many have not heard about AIM and the Red Power movement in the 1970’s, making connec-tions to current Indigenous activism. She also argues that there should not be any generalization about Indigenous peoples and that no one person is an expert on Natives. She does a good job of defining her terminology/naming throughout the book, and whenever possible specifically addresses her references with tribal/First Nations names and locations. The only weakness in the text is that the intro-duction is sometimes too general and Mihesuah’s words could be misconstrued by Natives and non-Natives alike. For example when she explains her mixed blood ideology on page xv relating to stereotypes and identity it sounds like she is making judgments about all mixed blood Na-tives. However, later in the text she qualifies her state-ments. All in all I would say that this book is important for all Indigenous people to check out. It is important for the Native/First Nations scholar as well as the community member or leader. I thought it would be impossible to address all these social locations at once, but Mihesuah does a fine job. Her work begins to address Indigenous women’s issues and this location in academia, but there is much more work to be done to cover contemporary issues of environment and economic development as well as how they relate to Indigenous women in particular.

Greeting Everyone Summer is behind us and we are enjoying a warm busy fall. Today, as I am writing, snow is falling – reminding us that win-ter is just around the corner. I want to take a moment to extend my appreciation to everyone who worked and contrib-uted to the success of this year’s, Annual General Assembly. It was so awesome having the elders participate in three days of events. They observed the people, listened to the speakers and visited. They truly are inspirational; we listened to them joke and tease, laugh, and give advice on “how we can im-prove”. The ONA is already two thirds of the way through fiscal year 2005/2006 and experiencing another busy year, with activities in Economic Development, Fisheries, Forestry, Natu-ral Resources, Health, Child Welfare, and Education. Lots of exciting events are occurring within our Nation and we’re making progress but always aware of “improving”. At the AGA, we were also reminded by the Elders that we should not be overwhelmed by what we have not achieved. Rather we must focus on improvement. This is really what it’s all about. How can our Nation improve at every level? At the ONA, staff strive to include our members in all activities. Our goal is to develop effective mechanism so that members can have meaningful input into the decision making process while ensuring that ONA actions remain transparent and ac-countable. The ONA declaration is clear that our mandate is to develop healthy vibrant and safe communities. In addition, to administrating the day to day activities of the ONA and ensuring that our internal systems are functioning and meeting communities’ needs, I have also been involved as you know with many external initiatives. There is a lot of ground to cover. Federal and Provincial Government are also trying to deal with the First Nation Agenda. For example, this past year the Federal government released the Aboriginal Health Blue Print. It commits 700 million dol-lars over the next 5 years to improve Health Care for First Nation. Provincially, our own Premier has changed his ap-proach to First Nations affairs. Premier Campbell has backed away from his adversarial stance is now advocating and insist-ing that Aboriginal issues must be on the agenda at the next First Ministers Meeting. This historic meeting will be held here in Kelowna on November 24th and 25th 2005. Federally, the Prime Minister has committed to eradicate poverty amongst First Nations people in 10 years. Although we applaud and welcome “the new era” in First Nations relations, we also know that this goal will not be achieved if First Nations are not directly involved in the devel-opment, design and implementation of Post-FMM initiatives. Eradicating poverty is not a new goal our community leaders. The PM will not fix the Indians. We Indians, have to take the lead, we must build vibrant and sustainable economies in each of our communities if we are ever to truly eradicate poverty. The issues are complex and diverse. Across Canada each First Nations community has a unique context; “one size fits all”

solutions have been proven to be ineffective. Our history is clear; colonial government will not fix it for us. However, we can take every advantage of this influx of resources. At this point, we can even feel cautiously optimistic that re-sources will actually reach communities and not get stalled in the higher echelons of First Nations political process. As members of the Okanagan Nation, we must remain consis-tent in our efforts and continue to work hard to create the change we desire for our selves, for our families, for our communities and ultimately for our Nation. We must not lose sight of the goals or become distracted by the agenda’s of governments or private interests. There are a number of initiatives the ONA continues to advocate and promote such as access to increased resources, independent self governance, etc…Each day, I witness our leaders and community members creating action. They are not waiting. They want better and they go out and get it. Their actions are developing capacity in our communities and build legacies that will keep this Nation moving forward. In this current blitz of political process, there are a number of ONA initiatives underway that I would like to highlight: the development of the Okanagan Nation Child and Family Services Agency and the First Nations Mental Health strat-egy. Both will contribute to mobilizing our communities and provide us with an opportunity to develop and design Okanagan Nation institutional infrastructure as opposed to others building it for us. REPORT CONTINUED ON PAGE 13

ONA Executive Director Report ~ Pauline Terbasket

Page 3 Fall Edition 2005

L-R ~ Andrew McGinnis, Pauline Terbasket and Leon Louis at the Annual Salmon Feast in September 2005

~Photo Courtesy of Frank Falkus

Congratulations

Congratulations to William D. Smallwood and Fanny Thomas Smallwood. The couple had a baby girl on September 22, 2005. Kiera Jeannine Smallwood was 6 lbs 4 oz. And 20 inches long. William and Fanny were married on September 25, 2005. William is a mem-ber of the Lower Simil-kameen Indian Band, his parents are Dave (Gabe) Qualtier and Jenny Smallwood. Fanny is from

Ahousat and her parents are Richard and Roberta Tho-mas. William is currently serving a 3 year term in the United States Army, He is an Infantry Specialist. He recently served one year in Afghanistan and is sched-uled to deploy to Iraq in March of 2006, where he will serve one year of active war duty. William is sta-tioned in Honolulu, Hawaii, where he hopes to have his wife and daughter join him

in December. Gabe and Jenny would like to say thank you to everyone who supported them during their fundraising events. Thanks to those who bought pies, and at the Salmon Feast on O K Falls. Bought either a raffle ticket for the quilt or an item from the craft table. We were able to make the trip and enjoy our mini va-cation. ~Submitted by Dave (Gabe) Qualtier

William Smallwood

Leon Louis and Made-line Gregoire brining in eagle staffs for the UBC-0 Welcoming Ceremony Photo Courtesy of Lyle Mueller

The welcoming of UBC-O into Okanagan Nation terri-tory was a historical event. Bernie Marchand-Brown and Leon Louis traveled to the different community’s to let the Elder’s know what the ceremony was about and also to invite them to come and be apart of this histori-cal event. We would like to thank the Elders that came to help celebrate this event, Lim Limt. The Welcoming ceremony happened on September 1st at the University of British Columbia-Okanagan campus in Kelowna, previously the OUC north campus. The ceremony started off with a procession of flags. In the front was a eagle staff that was made during the summer by Okanagan youth. Next, the unity ride staff was carried in by Eric Mitchell which was followed by the canoe trek staff. The En’Owkin centre blanket came

next with the flags of the Okanagan Nation, province of BC, Canadian, American, UBC and OUC flags following. Behind the flags, Okanagan Nation Elders, Chiefs of the Okanagan Nation, community members, and representatives from UBC-O and Okanagan College were present proceeded into the gym. The gym was set up to form a circle where the Eagle staffs were put in the middle. The opening prayer was said by Okanagan band Elder, Victor Antoine. Representatives from UBC said they enjoyed the being apart of the ceremony and felt the spirituality of it. I would like to say Lim Limt to all who came to be apart of this welcoming ceremony. ~ Leon Louis

UBC - Okanagan Welcoming Ceremony

Page 4

The ONA continues to seek opportunities to secure resources that will restart our Natural Resource and Research Depart-ment. These areas are critical to how we move forward. We need the discretionary revenues that allow us to continue build-ing capacity and provide us with the ability to respond to op-portunity. The Economic Development Strategy continues to evolve. We are building momentum as we simultaneously de-velop in three areas: the individual/entrepreneur, the commu-nity and the Region. And it is these Federal and Provincial political processes that should support this local momentum. Of course with such activity and momentum we must all re-main committed to a unified approach. This will see us through the challenges. We have to remain patient; everything will not be done yesterday. It can not happen soon enough. Govern-ments move slowly and one election can change direction com-pletely. We must work cautiously, so that “piece meal” pro-jects can be integrated into an overall community plan and

don’t result in actions that outright undermine local and collec-tive achievement. I can only hope that within the next few months, years, and during this time of constant change that we manage our local, provincial and federal governments in a man-ner that honors our ancestors. Remember it was their stamina, perseverance and faith to Okanagan traditional values which were central to all that they did. This is the only way we can ensure that we do not fail to remember our purpose: to live fully, to provide for our families and for seven generations and enduring as a proud Nation. Please keep posted to all the events and up coming meetings. I encourage you all to participate and provide the feedback. Let your voice be heard and recognized so that the ONA can re-main - your Tribal office, your Tribal government. Lim Limpt

Executive Director Report Cont’d from page 2

better understanding of global is-sues (social, political, economic and environmental) in the broad community and an understanding that transitional cooperation is needed to resolve many of them. It is hoped the one-week series of

events will become an annual occurrence in Kelowna. This would not preclude speakers be-ing invited and/or other events taking place during the year.

Prospera Credit Union in conjunction with Okanagan Nation Alliance pre-sented An Evening of Inspiration, on Monday October 24, 2004 at Manteo Resort in Kelowna. The Gala Dinner featured awe-inspiring philanthropist and 2005 Nobel Peace Prize nominee Doreen Spence as guest speaker. The event was occurred in conjunc-tion with the Okanagan’s first ­Global Citizenship Week on October 24-29, 2005. The objective of the one week festival was to appeal to all ages who are interested in bringing awareness to Canada’s role and the individual’s role towards global citizenship. The idea for such an event came after the highly successful inaugural Cana-dian Non-Government Organizations-United Nations (NGO-UN) Forum that was held in Kelowna during Feb-ruary 2004. The UN representatives described this event as the “blue print” for how the UN-NGO network around the world should develop, The focus of the week is to develop a

Page 13 Fall Edition 2005

Evening of Inspiration

Guest Speaker Doreen Spence with CBC Reporter ~ Photo Courtesy of Jamie Albrecht

New Relationship Document The document entitled “A New Relationship” was agreed to by the First Na-tions Summit, Union of BC Indian Chiefs, the BC As-sembly of First Nations and BC Premier Gordon Camp-bell. This document is a result of senior political dis-cussions on how to establish a new government to gov-ernment relationship that is based on respect, recogni-tion, and accommodation of Aboriginal title and rights.

The document contains a vision statement, goals, prin-ciples and some action plans. These action items contain steps to move for-ward this new relationship and common vision. The vision of this document includes a relationship that is based on the commitment to the reconciliation of Abo-riginal and Crown titles and jurisdictions. To make this “new relation-ship” work, the parties in-

volved will establish a joint management committee to work towards current issues that are of high concern and developing short and long term steps to find a solution. For more information or to view the “New Relation-ship” document in it’s en-tirety please visit these web-sites:

www.ubcic.bc.ca www.bcafn.ca www.fns.bc.ca

As we continue our journey along the path to economic self-sufficiency, we face both great opportunities and great challenges. Our responsibility now is to come to-gether to ensure that our plans for economic growth are the result of a comprehensive process that reflects what we desire for our families and our communities, and sup-ports our goal of economic self-sufficiency by intercon-necting profitable business opportunities with other inter-ests and traditional values. This event will be highly informative and interactive. We invite you to bring your ideas and your voices to this proc-ess and to help us galvanize a shared plan of action for community and Nation building. To receive further updates about this conference please direct your inquiries to: Christina Rowland Cell: (250) 470-2139

Email: ona_edo@syilx.org Charlotte Armstrong Phone: (250) 707-0095

Email: carstrong@syilx.org

On November 11, we would like to pause in a moment of silence to honor the sacrifices and achievements of veterans who served

our country during wartime.

Lest We Forget ~ November ll

Unity Principle #3 ~ Building Sustainable Aboriginal Communities Building upon the success of the prior conferences in the Unity Principle series, we continue our emphasis on building capacity for collaborative working, both across the Okanagan Nation and across cultures, par-ticularly concerning integrated Socio-Economic De-velopment. Unity Principle #3 will serve as the launch event for our Regional CED (Community Eco-nomic Development) Assessment process, which promises to provide us with a contemporary needs and opportunities analysis as the basis for further skills and business development. This will also help inform a future regional planning initiative which we will be participating in, as equal partners in the future of the Okanagan region. Regional cooperation is needed to address common concerns. Everyone wants to live in a community where the quality of life is high. If we cooperate across all communities and plan carefully and purposefully for the future, we can achieve this goal. A cornerstone of sustainable development is the in-volvement of people in the decision-making process.

Page 12

The Aboriginal Peoples Family Accord (APFA) is en-couraging Okanagan Nation members to attend the ‘One Day for Our Children’ gathering on Monday, Nov. 28 in Westbank. Each band office, from OKIB to OIB, have been invited to attend the one-day event at the Sensisyusten House of Learning gymnasium, 1920 Quail Lane, on Monday, Nov. 28 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. “All Okanagan Nation Alliance bands have been sent an invitation to attend this event,” said Gathering Coordi-nator Amanda Montgomery. “While everyone is invited, the APFA will pay travel, at 46 cents a kilometre, for an elder and a youth from each community to attend. “In order to get the word out, each community is being mailed more than 50 ‘One Day for Our Children’ post-

ers. We will pay $25 to a youth organization or band member to distribute these posters in their commu-nity.” ‘One Day for Our Children’ will feature an update from APFA Transition Coordinator Eliza Terbasket and then participants will be broken off into discus-sion groups to take part in a cafe-style format. “We are looking for feedback from community mem-bers on how to improve family services in their area,” said Terbasket. “At our first gathering in Creston, we heard how there has to be support, not only to the child, but to the family and the role of elders in fami-lies and the community.” Following a 66 percent budget cut, the board of direc-tors withdrew the services of their zone facilitators and therefore it’s been more than 20 months since the APFA has been out in community. Despite limited resources, the board has flagged community engage-ment as a priority. Other ‘One Day for Our Children’ gatherings include Williams Lake Nov. 8, Cache Creek Nov. 17 and Kamloops Nov. 18. This is the next step following the APFA’s Regional Child & Family Service Plan which was released about a year ago. User-friendly condensed versions of the Okanagan Nation submissions to the service plan will be available at the Sensisyusten gathering. Participants will also be served a catered lunch and given the opportunity to win a collector travel blanket. “When it came to coming up with a door prize, we leaned towards a blanket because it’s culturally appro-priate,” sad APFA Communication Coordinator Dan Odenbach. “These polar fleece blankets come with a travel bag and are perfect to throw into your truck for emergency situations or for outdoor community events.” For more information on ‘One Day for Our Children,’ contact APFA at (250) 707-0095.

Assembly of First Nations National Chief Phil Fontaine looks over newsletters from the APFA while attending the WFN AGA this summer. ~ Photo by Dan Odenbach

X’ ast Sputa?

The ONA Chief’s Executive and Staff wish Everyone A Healthy and Joyous

Holiday Season

Aboriginal Peoples Family Accord

Page 5 Fall Edition 2005

Above: Fisheries Technician, Charlene Pierre, doing catch and release work on Okanagan River

Collection of sockeye eggs for the hatchery

To the right: Biologist Kari long with technicians Mason Squakin and Lori Snow

Reintroduction of Sockeye into Skaha Lake - Summary of Project

Egg Collection Fry Release Smolt Survival Adult return

2003 Broodyear—460,000 eggs col-lected

352,500 fry survived to be released into Skaha Lake in June 2004

Estimate that 162,000 sockeye smolts left Skaha Lake between April-June 2005 and migrated to Pacific Ocean

To Be Determined in 2007 Projected adult return of 1,600 sockeye from the fry released into Skaha Lake in 2004

2004 Broodyear— 1.57 million eggs col-lected

1.2 million fry to be released into Skaha Lake in May 2005

To Be Determined Estimate that 600,000 sockeye smolts will leave Skaha Lake between April-June 2006 and migrate to Pacific Ocean

To Be Determined in 2008 Projected adult return of 6,000 sockeye from the fry released into Skaha Lake in 2005

2005 Broodyear— 1.7 million eggs collect

To Be Determined Project that 1.3 million fry will be released into Skaha Lake in 2006

To Be Determined To be determined in 2009

Over 30,000 sockeye returned to the Okanagan River this year. As part of the Reintro-duction of Sockeye Salmon

into Skaha Lake project, ONA crews col-lected eggs from 710 sockeye females. These eggs will be fertilized and raised over the winter at the Shuswap River Hatchery. We expect that over one-million fry will survive the winter to be released into Skaha Lake in May 2006. The ONA has continued to monitor the survival of sockeye fry that were released into Skaha Lake in June 2004 and May 2005. The fry released into Skaha Lake in 2004 have migrated to the Pacific Ocean and surviving adults will return in October 2007. The fry released into Skaha Lake in 2005 are completing their juvenile life-history stage and will be ready to leave Skaha Lake for the Pacific Ocean in the spring of 2006. Below is a summary table of results to date and estimates for the fu-ture return of these Skaha Lake sockeye. If you have any questions please contact Kari Long, ONA Biologist at (250) 707-0095 or at klong@syilx.org

Okanagan River Sockeye

Page 6

Okanagan Nation Economic Development

Drummers singing the Okanagan song before the feast begins

A special thank you to all the volunteers who helped to make the Annual Salmon Feast suc-cessful. Sorry to any of the volunteers whose names were omitted.

• Drummers • Dina Brown • Len Lindstrom • Gloria Alexis • Monika Alexis • Darcie Alexis • Sarah Alexis • Dominique Alexis • Carmella Alexis • Stephanie Wilson • Dakota Jack • Amanda Montgomery • Tara Montgomery

• Bernie Marchand-Brown • Stacey Bonneau • Lee John • Stephanie Wilson • Trish Manuel • Les Louis • Dale Clarke • Sandy Terbasket • Ken Carmichael • Dixon Terbasket • Duane Garfield Funders: • TD Bank • Big White • Silver Star • Columbia Power Corp. • Gorman Bros. • ONA Member Bands

Under the direction of the Economic Development Officer as team leader for the project, consultants experienced in the development of CED process in Aboriginal communi-ties will undertake: 1. Establishment of a project baseline through analysis of

supporting documents and input from each member community regarding their local economic develop-ment aspirations, and issues and opportunities

2. Using Unity Principle #3 conduct community specific workshops for key streams of development (eg. Tour-ism, manufacturing, agriculture, natural resources, for-estry and value-added forestry)

3. Deliver an individual, brief report of recommendations to support a CED update for each community, as part of a Final Report to be used as a strategic planning tool from which a business plan may be drawn down to guide the operations of the ONDC.

The development of the Okanagan Nation Development Corporation is making steady and rapid progress. Two representatives from each band will be appointed by their respective Chief and Council to sit on the Eco-nomic Development Working Group and the Tourism Committee. As a cornerstone for the economic and social develop-ment of the Okanagan Nation communities, the research and development to be undertaken through this project will provide the foundation of the Okanagan Nation De-velopment Corporation. Our Economic Development program has been cognizant of the three levels of eco-nomic development (Individual/entrepreneur, Local/Band, and Regional/Nation) in all applications of effort, and this process is no different. Respecting that com-munity economic development processes need to be driven from the grass roots up our process will unfold in three stages:

Salmon Feast ~ Lim limpt

Page 11 Fall Edition 2005

Way` Hello, I hope all of you are doing well. I was happy to see some of you at the Salmon Feast. I had a great time. Congratulations everyone at Okanagan Nation Alliance on a job well done! Currently, I am working as the Cultural Coordinator for Westbank First Na-tion. The past year we have developed a web based language site on the internet for our nsyilxc ?n lan-guage. We have recorded over 200 words and it is accessible by logging on to www.firstvoices.ca and then choosing our nysilxc ?n language. We are the first of the Okanagan communities to have undertaken this project, although it is available to all. We may be in-terested in other communities adding their own re-cordings to our site as well. Eventually it may become an Okanagan Nation web based language site instead

of a Westbank First Nation site. This site may be used as an additional resource for the communities to learn the language It can assist the learner who lives away from the nation or for those that do not have access to a language class. Additionally, the language font/keyboard is available to download from our site at First Voices to your computer to enable you to use the language in its written form. If you have any questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at Westbank First Nation 769-4999 or Sensisiyusten School 769-2802. Way’ Líml?mt. Corinne Derrickson Cultural Coordinator

Nysilcn Language on the Internet

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Logo History ~ Westbank First Nation

In this feature it is interesting to find out the history behind the logos used by the different Okanagan bands. The logo used by Westbank First Nation was developed in 1992. Chief Robert Louie and Councillors Ted Clough, Larry Derrickson, Gary Swite, and Pat Fosbery initi-ated a contest for Westbank First Nation members to design a new band logo. Several submissions were considered, but Elder Mary Derrickson’s logo was chosen. Her initial design incorporated grizzly bear, ogopogo, moon, and mountains. Sherry Hamilton also submitted her artistic rendition which included sen’klip (coyote) and Council felt it was important to incorporate it into the winning logo because of the prominent role sen’klip plays in our Okanagan leg-ends and teachings. WFN’s logo was designed through the combination of two creative talents and is a depiction of na’ha-a-itk (Ogopogo), Okanagan Lake, sen’klip (coyote), and the bear claw. It aptly captures the essence of our legends, culture, and history. Once received, other community logos will be fea-tured in future editions.

Fisheries Technicians, Ethan Baptiste and Clay-ton Gabriel, counting endangered Okanagan River Chinook

OKANAGAN LAKE KOKANEE SPAWNER POPULATION ESTIMATE

Total Okanagan Lake Shore Spawners 166,200

Total Okanagan Lake Creek Spawners (17 Creeks) 61,000

Six-Mile Creek (Equesis Creek) 8,356

Nashwito Creek 3,651

Whiteman Creek 4,439

SKAHA LAKE KOKANEE SPAWNER POPULATION ESTIMATE

Shingle Creek 2,550

Okanagan River Channel in Penticton 106,500

In May 2005, the Committee on the Status of Endangered W i l d l i f e i n C a n a d a (COSEWIC) has recom-mended that the Okanagan River Chinook be listed as an endangered species under Canada’s Species at Risk Act. The Mister of Environ-ment Canada is expected to make his decisions on the endangered species ruling within the next few weeks. During October 2005 the ONA and Fisheries and Oceans Canada, collabo-rated on chinook assess-ments in the Okanagan River. Important informa-tion gathered this year will

begin to fill some of the information gaps that have been recorded for this spe-cies. This fall, 30 chinook (18 females and 12 males) were observed in the Okanagan River. This fish were trapped, sampled and released back into the river. The sex and length of each fish were recorded, and scale and genetic samples were collected. Of the 30 fish, only one displayed markings that identified it as a Washington State hatchery origin chinook – this means that the vast majority of chi-nook we continue to see in the Okanagan River are wild chinook that continue to

spawn successfully. The ONA will be working with the Osoyoos Indian Band over the winter and spring to continue with chi-nook assessments, to apply for funding for future chi-nook research and surveys and to raise public aware-ness of chinook and salmon issues in the Okanagan River. If you have any questions, please contact Howie Wright, ONA Senior Bi-ologist at 250-707-0095 or hwright@syilx.org

Okanagan River Chinook

Okanagan and Skaha Lake Kokanee Lake creek and shore-spawner data. The 2005 return of 227,000 kokanee spawners in the Okanagan lake system is the highest it has been since 1988. Re-sults are summarized below. The ONA worked with Pen-ticton Indian Band to enu-

merate kokanee in Shingle Creek and the Okanagan River channel, which make up the total Skaha Lake ko-kanee population. The 2005 return of 109,050 Skaha Lake kokanee spawner population of is the highest it has been since 2002.

The ONA worked with Okanagan Indian Band to enumerate kokanee spawn-ers in three creeks within the OKIB reserve boundaries. These kokanee contribute to the overall kokanee popula-tion in Okanagan Lake. The BC Ministry of Environment provided the total Okanagan

Page 7 Fall Edition 2005

BACKGROUIND

The Carrier Sekani Tribal Council and the BC First Nations Leadership Council organized an emergency forum in Prince George on September 19-20 for First Nations affected by the mountain pine beetle (MPB) epidemic. Their aim was to bring together First Nation representa-tives to have them inform an action plan that would deal with the various impacts and opportunities. Some 69 First Nations and 8 First Nation organizations attended the forum, which resulted in a 72 point BC First Nations Mountain Pine Beetle Action Plan. This action plan was imme-diately approved in principle by the fo-rum’s attending delegates and within weeks was approved by resolution by the Union of BC Indian Chiefs, First Nations Summit and the BC AFN. The Leader-ship Council has since appointed three Chiefs to carry out the task of rolling out the action plan’s most immediate items under terms of reference which expires on December 1, 2005, subject to renewal.

THE WORKING GROUP

The First Nations Mountain Pine Beetle Interim Working Group is: 1) Chief David Walkem, Cook’s Ferry First Na-tion 2) Chief Lynda Price, Ulkatcho First Nation and 3) Chief Leonard Thomas, Nak’azdli First Nation. They are sup-ported by a small technical team, lead by Paul Bloom, RPF, RPBio. The working group activities are supported by the Car-rier Sekani Tribal Council, host agency for the group.

The working group’s primary mandate is to:

1. Draft two budgets (2005/06 and 2006/07) based on the action plan’s immediate priorities, which will then be submitted to the provincial govern-ment by the Leadership Council;

2. Draft recommendations for an ongo-ing structure that can address the ac-

tion plan’s longer term goals;

3. Carry out tasks related to the ac-tion plan under the direction of the Leadership Council (e.g. overseeing the appointment of persons to the Province’s Moun-tain Pine Beetle Emergency Re-sponse Team);

4. Undertake communication activi-ties in order to inform communi-ties of the working group’s pro-gress

IMPACTS & OPPORTUNTIES

As a result of the beetle epidemic there will be known and unknown impacts and opportunities. Here are a few important examples:

Expected Impacts

• 80% of BC’s lodge pole pine for-ests will be destroyed by 2014, approximately 960,000,000 cubic meters

• Beetle control activities have minimal effects on the epidemics spread in the interior

• Forestry based communities will suffer significant economic losses as timber supply decreases over time

• Log milling is starting to concen-trate into fewer high volume mills

• Huge increases in the allowable cuts are being issued by the Prov-ince - consultation and accommo-dation (C & A) obligations with First Nations remain outstanding

• Negotiations around the Forest and Range Agreements based on the New Relationship document & MPB epidemic remain unresolved at this time

• Some communities face a greater risk of wild fires

Unknown Impacts

• Pine forest cover will be lost in riparian zones, affecting fish habitat. To what extent isn’t known at this point

• Sensitive wildlife habitat will be impacted but to which ex-tent is not clear

• Long term community stability and viability will be affected but which ones and to what extent is not certain

• Short and long term, new for-estry enterprises will face in-creased risk, thus affecting the investor confidence. To what extent is not yet certain

Known Opportunities

• The federal government has provided BC $100 million dol-lars - impacted or potentially affected First Nations will be able to access some of this money over the next 3 years (2005-2007) to address the beetle’s impacts. The expecta-tion is for BC and First Nations to jointly request a further $900 million over 10 years

• The Leadership Council may appoint members to the Prov-ince’s pine beetle emergency response team so that First Na-tions interests are addressed at a high level

• Fist Nations can collaborate on economic development oppor-tunities in a number of areas: tourism, wood products, mar-keting, habitat restoration and so on.

Continued on Next Page

BC First Nations and the Mountain Pine Beetle

Page 8

Areas affected by the Moun-tain Pine Bee-

Mobile Family Group Case Conferencing Pilot Project

ONA has taken an important step to attend to the needs of aboriginal children. There are three parts to this project: a timeline; providing information on the Children and Families Services Act; also presenting information on the Risk Assessment model for Child Protection in BC. From this project it is hoped that the capacity of our communities to look after our chil-dren will be realized. Objectives of Family group case conferences: • Prevent the occurrence or re-occurrence of child

abuse and neglect • Strengthen and extend the support networks within

and around the family • Reduce the number of and/or length of stay for

children in and out of family homes • Divert cases from courts

• Include families in the creation of case plans • Promote partnership between the family,

community and government with respect to planning for children

Each community and local friendship centers will also be presented the Gift of Self-Esteem series, a documentary by Film West Associates. Topics include: • Achieving balance in life • Five principles to high performance • Unlocking your potential • Taking charge of your life • Managing your emotions • Releasing your brakes • New mental diet • Rapid learning techniques • Five keys to goal setting • Seven steps to goal achievement • Developing a successful personality • The worry buster • Parenting For more information please contact : Elizabeth Bent, Family Group Conferencing Coordinator at (250) 707-0095

faxed and emailed out to First Nations in order to update communities on important developments.

COMMUNICATION

ACTIVITIES

The working group will soon be establishing a web-site at:

www.fnmpb.ca

which will act as a central repository for information on the action plan’s roll out and on the working group’s activities. Please visit it. The working group will also produce a News Bulletin in November which will be

Mountain Pine Beetle Continued from page 8

Page 9 Fall Edition 2005