; Metis News and Stuff

Monday, May 05, 2008

Belhumeur Granted Two Week Delay

During a phone conversation last week, one of the defendants in the MMF et al vs. Terry Belhumeur et al Queen's Bench File No. CI 05-01-41955, told MN&S that he appeared in court and was granted a two week delay to come up with some affadavits the MMF's lawyer had requested. Belhumeur also said that hiring a lawyer would cost thousands of dollars that he doesn't have, so at this point, he is going to continue to represent himself.
The Manitoba Metis Federation has been suing Belhumeur and others for alleged defamation, in a court case that has dragged on for over two years.
The lawsuit has reportedly cost the government funded corporation in excess of $ 100,000.

Could Trevor Gladue Be Next ?

Metis politics.....wow, what a tangled web. We here in Manitoba have been following the complicated and interesting battle between the Metis Nation of Alberta and Rick Boucher. Boucher had been earlier suspended due to his region's and the Metis National Councils decision to funnel Health training funds to a private company, not the MNA. The now former MNA region 1 vice president appealed that suspension through the provincial courts. Here is the judges decision, that sided with the MNA's position ;
Now that the courts have found the MNA's judiciary council did the right thing in kicking Boucher out of the MNA until 2010, a few Alberta blogs are also calling for further heads to roll, specifically a few members of the renowned "group of seven".
I wonder if MNA vice president Trevor Gladue will continue to back Boucher ? Ken Bourque also must be held accountable....hey guy's where's the Metis National council health minister David Chartrand when you need him ? Why he's safely back in Manitoba watching you guys take the Metco fall.
This situation, will only get more interesting as the MNA is in an election year. The Alberta blogsites are popping up like crazy !!!
The Metis of British Columbia are also in an election year. Four months away for them
Should be good times for the blogs.

Thursday, May 01, 2008

Winnipeg Region Creating New Affordable Housing Plan

This message was sent from the good people on MacGregor ;
Winnipeg Metis Association Inc. is partnering with Habitat For Humanity Winnipeg, and plans to build several homes for Metis families (with MMF Winnipeg Region membership in good standing) in the next several years. Habitat for Humanity Winnipeg builds new homes for qualified applicants, with a zero percent interest mortgage, and no down payment!
Manitoba Metis Federation :: Winnipeg Region
Winnipeg Metis Association, Inc
With this announcement, I would encourage any families wishing to participate in this great opportunity to contact the association directly.
Click here for details. pdf

Monday, April 28, 2008

Monday Musings

What a great day weather-wise here in Manitoba and I do believe(knock wood) that we have seen the last of the cold garbage......My humble apologies for being away from the blogging scene but times being as they are, there sometimes is no time to get to the site. I do keep up with e mails and phone calls tho'..........So, the President of the Manitoba Metis federation tells the people in his weekly address that the Metis national Council is having a board of governors meeting this week. The Métis Provincial Council of British Columbia is still not ready to play ball with the laughable excuse for a national Metis political rep. Chartrand is still minister of all, MNC President Clement Chartier still has not responded adequately to the MNBC's request for answers to some very basic questions and although the Chartier/Chartrand combo have patted themselves on the back for their recent meeting with Minister Chuck Strahl ( April 8th,Ottawa), the governemnt has yet to announce reinstatement of the multi-million dollar health agreement. The new leader of the Metis Nation of Ontario (Gary Lipinski Honoured to be Elected as Métis Nation of Ontario President) , is known to not take a liking to Chartrand's political style. Audrey Poitras must still feel the back-stabbing sting from the recently held MNC election and her disdain for Chartrand has been displayed in the past. That again leaves Saskatchewan and Manitoba as possibly the provincial political allies for team Chartrand/Chartier. After what has transpired with the finances and program funding at the MNC, hopefully Saskatchewan is a little more up to speed for this week's meeting in Ottawa............Chartrand also indicated this weekend, that he has met with the editorial people from the Winnipeg Free Press . Darrell Deslauriers, the deposed MMF board member from Northwest region, has also been talking to the same newspaper. I can't wait to read whatever comes from the interviews. Chartrand didn't take a shine to one reporters query regarding Metis nationhood........continuing with the
Northwest region, MMF insiders report that the much ballyhooed full house that was in attendance at their regional meeting was comprised mainly of MMF/Northwest staffers, friends and family members...that bit of info came from some people very closely associated and, in attendance at the meeting. The caller went on to say there was trouble reaching quorum.......interestingly, David also announced a new initiative that will be run by Rosemarie Macpherson.........I admit that I have changed governments in the past. I voted Liberal on a few occasions and last election I voted Conservative. Sorry to say, but I am getting a little tired of the apparent need for total power by Prime Minister Stephan Harper. News on this alleged election spending shell game brings me back to the last MMF election.....the only differences are that there are no election spending rules currently in place at the MMF, thereby nullifying the need to hide campaign finance spending....are you a bit jealous Steve ? You should have gotten Glorian to run your campaign dude !! The Conservatives and Harper have still done enough for me and to continue supporting them ; for now............The Toronto Raptors just lost the game and are out of the playoffs after five games. My only observation on the this edition of the Raptors is that if that damn T'J' Ford didn't continually paint himself into a corner where he usually ends up having to take a goofy shot or, just outright turning the ball over, the Raps might have met a better fate. That, and where the hell was Bargnani ? The NFL held it's annual college football draft this weekend and as silly as it may sound, the mere sight of highlights and other media adverts for the upcoming season has got me pumped. (Those TSN commercials featuring the Saskatchewan Roughriders hoisting the Grey Cup get me really pissed !!)...............I notice in the newspaper on that local Metis artist Darren Lavallee has become a monthly regular on the Thursday night slot at Jaguars Dance Club at the Club Regent casino. Way to go buddy !!!............I am looking for some volunteers for an Indigenous Games fundraising event that is in the works. All entertainers interested in volunteering their services can also give me a call or e mail. The kids who have earned the right to represent their province in these games that are to be held in Cowichan, British Columbia unbelievably need $ 1,200 just to get there to participate. My nephew Donovan(Congratulations Donovan !!) has made the baseball team and my sister has to raise the same but thanks to some sponsors, should have no trouble raising the necessary cash, but i wonder how many kids might have to miss out due to no cash. The good people at the Manitoba Aboriginal Sport and Recreation Council are doing all they can and would probably be happy to accept any donations that readers can give to help these kids get the chance of lifetime........
Head Office
Manitoba Aboriginal Sport & Recreation Council

Head Office Sandy Bay First Nation
P.O. Box 107
Marius, Manitoba
R0H 0T0
or
Manitoba Aboriginal Sport & Recreation Council Winnipeg
Sub-Office 404-200 Main StreetWinnipeg, Manitoba
R3C 4M2
Phone (204) 925-5622
Fax (204) 925-5624
E-Mail

masrc@sport.mb.ca ...give to this worthy cause.......and have a great week !!!

MNBC Receives $ 450,000

Seems the Métis Provincial Council of British Columbia does just fine without the beleaguered Métis National Council ;
VANCOUVER — A $450,000 grant from the province will fund two years of a five-year plan to improve the lives of Metis people living in British Columbia.
Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Michael de Jong says the grant will improve health, housing, education and economic development opportunities, as set out in the Metis Nation Relationship Accord.
The accord, signed in May 2006, outlines social and economic priority areas for Metis people living in British Columbia.
Those priorities were developed following extensive community consultations by the Metis Nation British Columbia.
There are about 60,000 Metis people in British Columbia.
The Metis are recognized as aboriginal peoples in Canada, along with First Nations and Inuit. CP

Sunday, April 20, 2008

Muriel Parker Next Metis Woman's Rep ?

I am placing two anonymous comments on the main page. ....one from Manitoba and one from British Columbia.
Anonymous has left a new comment on your post
"Macpherson Feuding With CEO Chartrand":
The real fight between David, CEO and Rosemarie McPherson is Muriel Parker. Muriel Parker and David Chartrand believe they can not control Rosemarie and David is promoting Muriel as Rosemarie’s replacement.
Muriel is paid for. Her friendship at minimum equates to the following money being paid out monthly to Muriel. (David has placed her or manipulated her appointments on most of these.)On an average month:
Cedar Lake Lending Institute 2 days @ $300/day = $600
Chair, Swan River Friendship Centre and the Provincial Friendship Centre Board 2 days @ $300/day = $600MMF Finance Committee 3-4 days @$300/day=$900
LRCC Chair 5 days @ $300/day= $1,500
$3,600/month in honorariums.
$43,200/year in honorariums.
She then receives a Disability Pension from Canada Post, allegedly is 50% owner of husband’s logging business – which has received loans from LRCC. David and Glorian have a loyal friend in Muriel and can count on her to undermine everyone and bully them to protect David. She sits with Elbert Chartrand on many of these boards and is effectively his employer at the Friendship Centre. If David could get the Métis women to support Muriel – she would then sit on the Provincial MMF Board and would be a more effective David pitbull.
Not bad wages and benefits to be a loyal friend of David Chartrand.
How the hell can someone get paid so much and yet qualify for disability ?......and this one from a long time MN&S reader ;
Anonymous has left a new comment on your post
"Terry Belhumuer Distances Himself From Anti-Metis ...":
HI DARRYL
THIS MESSAGE FOR FRANK GODON. I was ask to let you know that our BC veteran got axe by the present MNBC Regime and they started a new vet group with a new pres.
You don't do what the leader says, your history.
A caller tells the story that the former BC rep merely wanted to know where the vet's cash was.

Friday, April 18, 2008

Friday Fiddlin' and Square Dancin'

Michael "Slick" Harris, Arnold Asham, The Asham Stompers and J.J Lavallee show Grand Forks how to party Metis style !! These clips were shot during the world curling championships.


Macpherson Feuding With CEO Chartrand

This news item has been previously confirmed with a former MMF BOD. Deposed Manitoba Metis Federation board of director Darrell Deslauriers was saying earlier this year that the Metis womans representative (MNC :: Métis Women) was on the outs with the MMF pooh bah.
Anonymous has left a new comment on your post
"Terry Belhumuer Distances Himself From Anti-Metis ...":
David Chartrand and Rosemarie McPherson are feuding because her daughter answered a telephone call for David Chartrand she shouldn't have. Check it out!

Thursday, April 17, 2008

Terry Belhumuer Distances Himself From Anti-Metis Advocate Clare Pieuk

Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "Couple of Quick Hits":
Good Morning Derryl
I have to write this to you to correct something on Clare Pieuk's web site. He is announcing that CCS is back in business. That is not entirely true.
I have again be receiving correspondence from Murray Trachtenberg regarding the upcoming trial by judge and jury. Not sure when it will happen but as soon as I know I will inform all media so they can prepare to cover it.
I plan to publish all aspects of the proceedings on my site as they happen. I am not going to get involved in day to day happenings of the MMF in any way shape or form since I have long ago given that up as a dead issue.
As for Clare declaring that people can send money for my defense fund to him, please be advised that I have not been associated with Clare in over a year and have no plans to do so.
“Please do not send money for my defence to him or anybody including me.
“Your voice and encouragement as well as emails to the appropriate government sources will suffice. As a great grandson of Louis Riel,(his wife, Margret Belhumeur, was my great grandfathers sister) I plan to show the world how vindictive these people who sue me really are. Those Metis in power stand up and praise Louis Riel, declaring the new holiday a positive event while frivolously suing a direct relative of his family.
I personally had no responsibility in alleged litigious material other than to own/co-own CSS.
I was not pre-informed of the postings, so what I am guilty of is simply owning the site.
I also would like to know how many of those people whose names still appear on the suit still want their names there?I still need a lawyer to defend the case but can not afford one. I have received at least a 100 letters from Murray Trachtenberg to date. Can you believe how much it would have cost to have a lawyer answer each one. Totally ridiculous.
In closing I will keep everyone informed about this case. And once again I am not and have not been associated with Clare Pieuk in any way for more a year. He is defending himself in the best way he knows how and I respect that but it is not the way I plan to defend myself.
Terry Belhumeur
Thanks for the update Terry.

Thursday, April 10, 2008

Couple of Quick Hits

This is great news for this talented Metis fiddling legend ;
John Arcand

------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Metis National Council President Clem Chartier and Manitoba Metis Federation CEO David Chartrand, are also reaching legendary status....that of world class magicians. Chriss Angel has nothing on these guys.

The quote I found so telling is from the Minister ; First quote is from Chartier ;
"The outcome of the meeting was very encouraging,’’ Chartier said. "And I am hoping for a successful partnership with the federal government."

And here's the kicker from Strahl ;
Added Strahl: "I know the MNC has come through a difficult period. I am pleased that we are now moving forward on a new relationship together.’’
After all that Metismama has shared with the blogs....what the heck happened ? Rod Bruinooge's request for forensic audit of the MNC does not look too promising.....that's I'm beat. Worked physically hard for the last two days and my bones hurt lol. Have a great Friday !!
Folklorama news in three days. !!

Wednesday, April 09, 2008

MNO's Tony Belcourt Still Working Hard

Tony Belcourt is still making inroads with the government, on behalf of the Metis in Ontario. Belcourt had announced earlier this year he is not going to seek reelection for the top Ontario Metis political post. The MNO will be electing a new leader May 5th
Forty years after his first involvement; this "watershed moment" for Ontario Metis;
Ontario ending centuries of discrimination with historic agreement ... The Canadian Press
Tony Belcourt not seeking another term as MNO President - Métis Nation of Ontario Elections are upcoming on May 5, 2008
Tributes
February 24, 2008 - Métis National Council Assembly Listen to tributes to MNO President Tony Belcourt by PCMNO Chair Gary Lipinski; MMF President David Chartrand; MNBC President Bruce Dumont; MN-S President Robert Doucette: MNA President Audrey Poitras and MNC President Clem Chartier. Also includes comments by Tony Belcourt ... Belcourt Tributes (mp3, 18mins)
Congratulations to Tony Belcourt, and to the entire MNO .

Tuesday, April 08, 2008

Families That Play Together, Tend To Make Great Music

Talented Metis family from Alberta ;
C.J. Shurter School brought some world class talent to town, and then worked them hard all day long. The school is big on the extracurricular activity of jigging and all things Métis and on March 31, the kids were treated to some real professionals.The musical Poitras family of St. Paul, Alberta performed several times throughout the day for different classes of C.J. Shurter, proving that they have energy to spare.
When The Leader stopped by to visit, they were jigging their way into the second performance.
Keeping it in the family is nothing new for the Poitras’. Mom Shelley is the most vocal of the four members, which is worth mentioning because she is the one member of the family that wasn’t performing when we visited. But mom Shelley was the quickest to speak on behalf of the family, which includes daughter Kelsey, 13, son Cory, 18, and husband and father Eddie Poitras.
For the Poitras’, she explained, having Métis blood means having Métis music in their veins, evidenced by the multiple talents of each of them.
The family members trade off duties on guitar, fiddle, keyboards and singing, all the while jigging to the music.
The Poitras’ family has the benefit of four extremely talented members that all work well together. They have released group and solo CDs as well as won many accolades for their work in traditional Métis music. Centred on the fiddle and guitar, the family has self-produced five CD’s, performed at many events in B.C., Alberta, the North West Territories and more. They have won countless awards for their craft.
Dad Eddie Poitras was raised near the Kehewin reserve in Alberta and has played guitar his whole life. At an early age, he traded a guitar for his first violin, and like the title of his award-winning CD, he has been “keeping the tradition alive” ever since.
At 18, Cory Poitras has been performing for 10 years. He’s an accomplished fiddle and guitar player and producer of the families albums. He might be considered the star of this Métis Partridge Family. Judging by his quiet demeanor, he would prefer to let the music speak for itself. Either that, or he is content to let his 13-year-old sister bring her talents into the spotlight next.
At age three, Kelsey Poitras won first prize in a vocal stylings competition, and has not looked back since. Now 13, Kelsey has a solo CD that showcases her vocal and fiddling talents, and she has been winning contests all over western Canada.
The three musical members, including mom’s management, make up the band “24 Seven”.
“Eddie and I used to go to shows and leave the kids with a baby sitter. After a while we thought, let’s get them involved too! It’s great to be able travel and perform with your family,” said mom Shelly.
Turns out, it’s great for the audiences also.
Musical families are great. The harmonies and just the plain ability to mesh musically seems to come easier in a family band. Here in Manitoba we have the excellent harmonies and talents of the Dutiaume and Lavallee families. The Gaudry Boys are also beginning to make their mark.
Here's a quick video featuring Kelsey and Cory Poitras. Good stuff !! ;

Monday, April 07, 2008

Late Monday Musings

Hope you all had a good weekend. I'm sooooo glad to see the weather getting a bit on the warmer side..........Due to time constraints and such, I wasn't able to comment on the Manitoba government's decision to suspend talks on devolution of probation services of Aboriginal inmates to various Aboriginal corporations. NDP suspends talks on handing off probation services . The government said over $3,000,000 has been spent sitting around tables discussing how the devolution was to be handled, with the meetings deciding nothing to this point. The N.D.P. has now said they will turn the focus to crime prevention. With the track record of the Manitoba Metis federation and their involvement with child services in this province, I feel this time for the Democrats to reflect on its' priorities and crime prevention is one of many "must do" items that the government has to deal with.....handing over the cash and programming to a quasi-political/cultural organization, wont work.......I read somewhere on another blog, that the blogger felt there were no Metis out east. Well, tell that to Chris Montague and his members. He has been very active this past year, fighting for the Metis cause. The aforementioned Metis blogger might have to eat his words. There are indeed Metis in eastern Canada; Métis accuse N.L. Tories of using landslide to pressure for Lower Churchill I have some cousins who would also disagree with the no Metis out east theory that live in Halifax. We were a nomadic bunch as well.......This very interesting/entertaining/enlightening debate that is occurring in Alberta Metis political circles, has reached a feverish level with some name-calling sometimes taking place. I can't wait to see who is "right" in this argument. It does appear as tho Metismama and her crew have things under control. I personally don't agree with the handing over of hundreds of thousands of health dollars to Metco Ventures......I'm sure getting antsy waiting for any news from the feds regarding the requested forensic audit of the Metis National Council by Manitoba Member of Parliament Rod Bruinooge..........anybody listen to David Chartrand's Metis Hour address this weekend ? If so, please share what was reported by Chartrand. I had to work and missed it.........important announcement regarding the Metis pavilion for this years Folklorama installment. I'm pumped !!..........here's video clip of my buddy, Aboriginal fiddling champion, the Mighty Metis, Darren Lavallee ;


Friday, April 04, 2008

Local 845 President Is Wrong, States MNA Member

Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "Some Stuff":

Don't Believe Everything you read!!! Especially it seems when in regards to Local 845 and Metismamas(yes it is plural because theres more then one)
I came across this on Novametis news links;
Hothook : I called a few contacts and had the text of the e-mail I think relating what transpired, I can not attest to the truth of this, but I do know a meeting was held to try to remove Trevor and Joe.
I am not sure about Trevor, but the crime Joe is guilty of is writing a letter to the President of the M.N.A. asking for her resignation. I gather that this is very serious in the M.N.A.
As a former director of a active organization years back I was disappointed in not receiving a letter demanding my resignation every month at least, I regarded the demands a sign that I did not have yes people working with me and at least they had convictions and principals.
I handled it as a method of resolving the issues we were dealing with and we got together and worked together on a solution. I guess this has never occurred to the top brass in the M.N.A.
Here is the text;
Rocky Mountain House Métis Local President kicks out Métis Youth
By Mark Nystrom
Métis Citizen
At a special meeting called in Rocky Mountain House on February 19, 2008; Métis citizens were appalled at the outright bizarre actions of local President Bev Webber. The meeting, which was carried out more as a one sided propaganda session, was called in an attempt to give a vote of non confidence of Joe Chodzicki and Trevor Gladue, who have been vocal on bringing accountability to the Métis Nation of Alberta.
At the beginning of the meeting Ms. Webber would
not allow certain members of the Métis community to enter without proof of membership. She also decided arbitrarily that the Vice President of Region 3 and the Vice President of the Province would not be allowed to speak in their own defense at a meeting that was questioning their integrity and performance. She however, did finally concede after much pressure from the people, that if they were asked a direct question by individuals that were selected by the board that Joe and Trevor would be permitted to answer that question. But how would a handful of people that had been given one side of a story know which questions to ask to find the truth? They would not think to ask Joe why he wrote that letter to Audrey or ask Trevor why he feels so strongly that the health program be continued, or why the letters that have been leaked to the public are written by Trevor to Audrey but not the other way around, or even why if these men are guilty as accused why they would come all the way to Rocky on their own time and money to present to this local? The local president seemed to feel free to present to the people what she felt was relevant and her interpretation of the facts but they were not given this opportunity! The fact that they had traveled several hours to attend this meeting and present evidence that would defend themselves and clarify the reasons for their behaviors further indicates that she did not want this to be a fair process. These gentlemen have been elected by a lot larger group of people than Local 845 and the fact that Local 845 would disrespect them and the Métis Nation by not allowing them to speak is unbelievable.
Bev spoke of the grass roots people making a statement, and this particular group has by their actions, however, I do not believe that they are speaking for all of or representing the grass roots people of the Métis Nation. How does this behavior draw the people together and encourage people to be a part of the Nation. How can one feel safe and stand up for what they believe in if they are going to be persecuted in a kangaroo court?
At one point, Bev
indicated that if people were in the process of getting a card they could vote. Then, when it was evident that Bev was facing scrutiny on the process of the meeting she then proceeded to kick out a handful of Métis youth and Métis citizens revoking their right to vote. The people that were asked to leave were horrified at such an injustice.
Not only were these youth interested enough to come to the meeting and expressing their desire to be a part of the Nation after waiting 3 years for their memberships they were once again excluded. How will our youth learn if they are excluded from the process and not allowed to make decisions based on a fair representation of facts? The Rocky Local, at least the board and a few others, seemed to feel that persecuting their elected officials was more important than finding out the truth, conducting a fair and democratic meeting and providing an environment for the young adults to learn, feel included and be proud to be a part of.
Of great concern is the fact that one
of the more outspoken board members works with young people and should have known the importance of allowing our young adults to be present and be proud of their Nation, not feel frustrated and excluded.
There was no membership list on hand to verify those in attendance.
It
should also be noted that she allowed people from outside of the community to stay in the meeting and one minor, the grandchild of the elder, was taken into the meeting after the other youth had been asked to leave. At least one life time member that has been involved with the local for many years was so discouraged by the proceedings that they left at this point without voting.
At this time, another Métis citizen was physically pushed out of the building, which ended up with the local RCMP members to be called in. Charges are pending against one of the local board members.
"Our leaders talk about getting the youth involved, and the moment I speak up, I am kicked out!" stated Shylo, a local Métis youth. "I am embarrassed by Bev's actions. She literally jumped all over me and my cousins. Why would I want to get involved with leaders like that?" questioned Shylo. My family and I have long historical connections to this community, long before Bev moved here. She said I could stay, but kicked out all of my children. What kind of leader is that? We couldn't even ask questions on the process of the meeting.
One local Métis Elder asked Bev directly about her involvement with improper cheques signed by her, and he too was told that this wasn't the place to talk about it. "I asked her if she was being taken to the judiciary council and she said no. Bev lied right to my face" said the local Elder. "I had the proof in my hands, and she still did not want to go there".
It is time that our Métis citizens stand up and say enough is enough! We should be trying to get our Métis citizens involved, not trying to kick them out.
Mark Nystrom
Concerned Métis citizen"
So be it, Sic Transit Gloria Mundy

Thursday, April 03, 2008

Some Stuff

Now that a few days have passed and more facts have been coming to light on the tragic triple homicide that occurred here in Winnipeg over the weekend, I was very surprised to know that many of my acquaintances including myself, knew a few of the victims. Without going into much detail, I just would like to offer my condolences to the families involved. The violence that has been plaguing our city recently is truly saddening. Innocent children are now left without a parent, mothers are now without their kids. From experience, I don't see this stuff ending anytime soon. Here are a few links to what occurred at this after party ;
Might be tough for the Weston areas bars/clubs for the next few months............Got a call from a long time MMF employee last week who was particularly upset that the Manitoba Metis federation are donating $ 1,000,000 to the Friends of Fort Garry. His beef was that many employees at MMF Inc. have apparently not gotten raises in two years or more. I think with all the consulting contracts and whatever else David and his girlfriend Glorian Yakiwchuk have been able to set up, the raises won't be coming anytime soon. Many feel that privilege is held for the inner circle. With the price of food and gas at stupid levels these days, the caller was saying that the employees are feeling the inflation pinch..........To the commentor who is concerned about the Indigenous games funding being affected by the Fort hand-out ; The Manitoba Aboriginal Sport and Recreation Council along with the Manitoba Metis Federation :: Winnipeg Region are on top of fundraising events and other possible funding sources for kids participating and their parent/s to attend these games. Creating sport and recreational opportunities for youth is one of Vice president Ron Chartrand's strong points. To all athletes and parents, contact the MASRC office for further information regarding the Cowichan 2008 - North American Indigenous Games..........Rocky Mountain House Local845 have released documents pertaining to the current political battle between Métis Provincial Council of British Columbia President Bruce Dumont and Manitoba Metis Federation pooh bah David Chartrand. MNBC had previously chosen to withdraw from the Métis National Council amid allegations from Dumont of misspending and lack of accountability/transparency shown by tweedle dee and his kin, tweedle dum(Chartier/Chartrand) I'm going to place the link to the many documents that Bev Weber from local 845 has uncovered. Take note that the MNC is over $ 3,000,000 in the hole and the personal pot shots between Chartrand and Dumont have taken quite a comedic tone. David is blaming Bruce for the MNC not getting $ 250,000 in core funding while calling the B.C. leaders actions "misguided" and "detrimental to the well being of the MNC". Bruce Dumont says hold on there bubba Louie; it is David that has shown himself to be "unprofessional, "side stepping issues" and has repeatedly and incorrectly, misstated facts. Here is the link to the 13 page insight into the current messy state of affairs at the MNC. pr_news19_8.pdf
The link also provides financial information regarding the MNC.......The Metis Nation of Alberta - Home is not without its' challenges as well. The "group of seven' missed an important framework meeting that apparently has resulted in the provincial government pulling $ 500,000 in funding.......F.Y.I. ; a MN&S contributor and MMF local rep, asked me to inform people to apply directly to The Business Development Bank of Canada to access their Aboriginal Business Development Fund (ABDF) She states that for aspiring entrepreneurs of aboriginal descent, under the age of thirty five, $ 75,000 dollars is available and you only have to pay back 10% of the loan !! She went on to say that the MMF's Louis Riel Capital Corporation charges much more.......Great band at Teddy Bob's Country bar this weekend. local Metis performer J.J. Lavallee is fronting an all star Aboriginal band that consists of Ryan and Clayton Daoust of Highway 373 from Norway house, Shawn Parenteau, and honorary Aboriginal guitar playing wizard Kevin Cockill. I haven't played anywhere for awhile so I'm going to jam witht the boys on Saturday.....Redboine local of the MMF, is hosting another coffee house next weekend at the Metis Club, 406 McGregor. The entertainment starts at 7;30 pm........Take the time to comment ohn the Upper Fort Garry article..... gotta go clean the yard on my day off.

Tuesday, April 01, 2008

David Chartrand, Protester

Manitoba Metis Federation President David Chartrand, in action ;

I guess this protest might have not been in his favor when a certain Conservative Party of Canada MP decided to ask for a forensic audit of the Métis National Council .

Sunday, March 30, 2008

Grassroots News No Friend To The Friends Of Fort Garry

I like when I get to research a bit. I ran across this article in latest issue of Grassroots News. In the article, Grassroots writer Marty Gold takes aim at the Manitoba Club, Winnipeg Free Press writer Gord Sinclair and the efforts of the Friends of Fort Garry. He decries the Friend's spin doctors and the use of taxpayer money for this project.
Here are a few excerpts ;
Especially ask the Friends who belong to the Manitoba Club. Ask them if they think the people of Spence or Magnus or Elmwood would be ‘insulted’ by a ‘stingy’ $1.5 million offer by Doer to support their projects. While community centres closed and neighborhoods were told there was no money for foot patrols, the Friends insisted the provincial and federal government fork over $9 Million tax dollars to preserve the view out the back door of their private club.
more ;
No one believed a word in the Free Press afterwards, as the paper tried to pressure Councillors while keeping the name of one of the 37 Friends — the man who signs their paycheques, owner Bob Silver — out of the stories. Finally even Freep city hall reporter Bartley Kives couldn’t stand it and wrote a column critical of the Friends’ tactics and distortions, which was wielded against the Friends cause in the debate.
Sinclair whined “I can forgive the mayor and city councillors who voted against the Friends… The divisive vote wouldn’t have been necessary if Premier Gary Doer had come up with the $4.5 million the Friends said they needed, instead of a stingy, insulting $1.5 million… ”Winnipeg has always been about the money.” Regrettably, that’s never been truer than today. Just ask the Friends.”
I'll bet you money that the next issue of grassroots will not be as unfriendly towards the Upper Fort Garry plan, now that a major Grassroots advertiser (MMF) has thrown their money and support behind the deal. Manitoba Metis Federation CEO David Chartrand would not tolerate this type of insubordination.
I'm up to something with these last few posts. ; )
Here's the grassroots news article in its' entirety ;
City Hall rejects media spin of Millionaires’ pet project
Marty, what say you know ?
The MMF is not only using tax dollars, but also money that could conceivably go towards Magnus and Spence Street Metis members.
You and Grassroots News still feel this way about the Upper Fort Garry plan ? I thought not.

Saturday, March 29, 2008

MMF Donation Puts Upper Fort Garry Over The Top and Other Metis Tidbits

Well, I don't know where he manages to come up with the cash, but Manitoba Metis Federation CEO David Chartrand and the board of directors have given the Friends of Upper Fort Garry a $1,000,000 dollar donation towards the preservation and development of the historic site. During his weekly address, the CEO has indicated the agreement has not yet been finalized but he said something to the effect that now that this partnership has been set, the MMF can now go after the resources to meet the financial obligations. Metis Bare Facts has been doing some posting about the Fort Garry issue, much of which begs the question "where is he getting the cash ? I would surmise that the donation is a multi-year deal and the CEO stated during his address that no MMF programs will be affected financially through this new initiative. So what's to say ? I guess we could just say kudos to the MMF President and his board. So I will. Congratulations on helping to preserve this historic site that means so much to all Metis and indeed, all Manitobans. This is the kind of stuff that has to be applauded. The President also said that part of this agreement with the Friends will include an interpretive centre that had already been talked about, but now with the MMF's involvement, there will now be a Metis Museum on the site. Today he also announced an increase of $ 50,000 to the bursary/scholarship funds from the Human Resources Development dept., bringing the annual total to $ 550,000. Universities also match those funds dollar for dollar bringing the total to lofty $ 1,100,000..........The Jack Park (MMF board of director) story has apparently been put to rest. To give you a little background, Park is an MMF board member who was recently from first hand reports sent packing by the owner of the Selkirk Tavern, Michael Bruneau(MMF member and owner of the Westbrook Inn). In a conversation I had with the manager of the Westbrook (terrific night spot) Robin Hewitt confirmed that Park has been fired and she was making a application to become a Metis so she could access Louis Riel Capital Corporation funds as she was buying the Westbrook. She stated Mike was aiding her in the purchase. An MMF employee stated awhile back that Jack looked very stressed out around headquarters when the story broke here. He now says that all appears well with Park. Wonder if LRCC cash had anything to do with that....anyways, the Park firing and theft from the Selkirk Tavern is history. He will not be charged with the misappropriation of $ 40,000. Mike is apparently now offering through an NCI fm radio advertising spot, $ 75,000 available in available financing(through LRCC?) to buy one or more of his clubs ; I'm just bringing up the questions that have arisen with the Park issue. Knowing Bruneau the way I do, nobody steals money from him and gets away with it..........Way to go Ron Chartrand, vice President of the MMF Winnipeg Region for the affordable housing initiatives announced during the region's annual meeting ;
Affordable-housing plan launched for Metis families. Low-income Métis families may soon be able to apply for affordable housing in Winnipeg, the Manitoba Métis Federation announced Saturday. . I think my kids might be a little too old for my family too apply for the houses, but any movement towards more affordable housing for we lower income families is a good thing......anything going on with the requested audit of the Métis National Council by Winnipeg MP Rod Bruinooge ?....a reliable MN&S source phoned this week to say that a lady named Grace says there is money missing all over the place at the MMF. Prove it I say.
I swear, David is kicking the crap out of any dissent, here or anywhere across Metis country right now. I know he has family and friends are employed in every area area of the MMF; he and Clem run the MNC according to Metismama, and yet we can't do a damn thing about it.
Oh well, back to the same old drawing board again.

Thursday, March 27, 2008

Big Spring Tea & Craft Sale

Métis Club of Winnipeg

&
Dumont Local Presents
Spring into Spring Tea & Craft Sale

Saturday, March 29th, 2008
Métis Club of Winnipeg 406 McGregor Street
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Fun for everyone, Cake Walk, Crafts, Silent Auction, Penny Auction, Hourly Prizes and Live Entertainment
Craft tables available
Admission: Silver Collection for live entertainment
Contact: Beryl Bouvette @ 233-5377

Tuesday, March 25, 2008

Appropriate Video For This Post


Thanks to all those who asked where the hell I was.
We're back. With the new gig I have, research time is very limited so I have no freakin' clue as to what the hell is going on in Metisland, but I'll catch up. The google alerts as most are aware, are only a smidgen of the news that's out there(gotta check out all the Metis blogs tonite).
There has been some event listings that have been sent that I will post later.
It's good to be back.

Thursday, March 13, 2008

This Is Getting Nauseating

The Chief Executive officer of the Manitoba Metis Federation David Chartrand , has again released a Louis Riel referenced, Paul Martin praising, hide the head in the sand "President's message".
Check out the message unusually high on rhetoric and as usual, short on substance. Read where he mentions the failed Aboriginal Health and Human Resources Initiative and how the MNC is undergoing a much needed forensic audit. J/K
Here's the link : President's Message

Urban Metis Issues To Be Discussed

MANITOBA METIS FEDERATION INC
WINNIPEG REGION ANNUAL GENERAL METING

MARCH 15, 2008
Registration
: 8:00AM
Meeting: 9:00AM – 5:00PM
St. Boniface College, 200 rue de la Cathedrale
West Gym – Room 1553
Let Your Voice Be Heard
Seeking all members of the Manitoba Metis Federation Inc. Winnipeg Region to attend !!
Issues
-Housing, education and training
-North American Indigenous Games
-Metis youth involvement
-Strengthening locals
-Local Management Board elections
Lunch provided
Free Parking
Art Auction
No entrance fee

EVENING ENTERTAINMENT
7:00PM – 11:00pm In Theatre Room
featuring local talent from across the province'
All proceeds raised will benefit Metis athletes attending the North American Indigenous Games hosted by the Cowichin Tribes, Duncan, British Columbia August 2 – 10, 2008. $10 entrance fee.
For more information contact Deidre, at 589-4327 ext 222 or send us an email at
wpgregion@mmf.mb.ca
Winnipeg Region Office
412 McGregor Street
Winnipeg, Manitoba
R2W 4X5
Web:
http://www.winnipegmetis.ca/

Randy's Back