Kaniatarak`ta Receives Certification

Kentenhkó:wa • November ✰ Iotór:ha • December 2012
Karihwi:ios
Contents
Local Clinic List
2
Kaniatarak’ta Receives Certification
Photo: Susan Oke
Elders Center Update 4
Dokis Nation Visit
5
School Update
8
Softball & Lacrosse
9
New Horizon Grant
12
Mothering Across
the Generations
13
Local Field Biology
14
Did You Know
15
Youth Forum
16
And Much Much More!
by Susan Oke
with assistance from
Marie Josée Martin
T
he Kaniatarak’ta Riverside Elders
Home has received its “Certificat
de conformité de residence
privée pour aînés.” At the forefront of
the certification effort are interim director
Marie Josée Martin, Head Nurse Carolie
Brassard, who have been in their respective
positions for about a year and Jackie Hebert
LPN, and they have had a lot of learning
to do on the job, which included some 70hour weeks for Marie Josée. Marie Josée
has been working in the health field as a
Licensed Practical Nurse for 10 years and
she also has a background in accounting.
All three make a strong and mutually
supportive team, and a team that clearly has
their residents best interests at heart. Marie
Josée thinks the residence is the heart of
Kanesatake; filled with people who have
lived their whole lives in this community.
The certification from the ministry of social
services attests to the fact that riverside has
met all the standards of care to ensure, says
Carolie, “that our elders are safe, protected,
and respected without compromise.” After
all, “it’s their home first and foremost” adds
Marie Josée.
Marie Josée is quick to point out
that a lot of the progress they’ve made is
the result of teamwork, including the help
of Nathalie Gélinas, Grand Chief, Serge
Simon, and Chiefs Clarence Simon and
John Canatonquin.
To get the certification, many modifi-
cations to the home had to be made; among
them, a central fire alarm system that works
with the new doors, so that if the fire alarm
goes off, the doors automatically unlock to
aid workers getting patients out while allowing fire crews in. At all other times the
doors are locked and visitors need to be
buzzed in.
They also had to get new beds to
comply with new standards. The beds
have guardrails that go half the length of
the bed instead of the full length, so as not
to restrain the residents; they also have
wheels to make evacuation faster in the
event of an emergency. The staff doesn’t
have to take the extra time to place people
in wheelchairs before they evacuate the
building. Because the bed is 40-inches
wide and the room door was 32-inches the
Continued on page 4
www.kanesatakehealthcenter.ca
Walk-in Clinic Information
Polyclinique Saint-Eustache
75, rue Grignon
Saint-Eustache (Québec)
J7P 4J2
Tel.: 450 473-6777
Fax : 450 473-1916
Clinique Médicale Laval-Ouest
3400, boul. Sainte-Rose
Laval (Québec) H7R 5E8
For a SAME DAY clinic appointment
Starting at 5:00 am
Call (450) 323-6237
Clinique Médicale Boisbriand
877, chemin de la Grande-Allée
Boisbriand (Québec) J7G 1W6
Clinique des Gerations
(formerly Centre Médical 25)
465 Bibeau (behind the hospital)
Saint-Eustache (Québec) J7P 2V1
Tel.: 450 472-1955
Fax 450 472-1905
Tel. : 450 437-4600
For a SAME DAY appointment
Starting at 7 :00 am
Call (450) 323-6211
Clinique Médicale de l’Avenir
1150, boul. de l’Avenir bureau 200
Laval (Québec) H7N 6L9
Clinique JMG Montée de la baie
St. Joseph-du-lac
Tel.: 450 680-1150
Fax.: 450 680-1151
For an appointment the NEXT DAY
starting at 11 :30 PM
Call (450) 323-6239
Clinique Médicale Deux-Montagnes
201, 9e Avenue
Deux-Montagnes (Québec) J7R 3M1
Tel.: 450 472-7520
Fax: 450 472-0886
For an appointment the NEXT DAY
Starting at 10 :00 pm
Call (450) 323-6247
Polyclinique Urgence 640
2000, Cours le Corbusier
Boisbriand (Québec) J7G 3E8
Tel.: 450 434-3434
Fax.: 450 434-6494
For a SAME DAY appointment
starting at 3:30 am
Call (450) 970-2419
2
Tel. : 450 627-2651
Fax. : 450 627-0072
Clinique Blainville
519, boul. Curé-Labelle
Blainville (Québec) J7C 2H6
Tel. : 450 430-2222
Clinique Medicale Sans Rendez-vous.com
136 rue Saint-Louis
St.-Eustache, QC
(514) 370-2112
Make your appointment online/Prenez votre
rendez-vous sur internet
www.cliniqueSRV.com
For a more complete list of area clinics (including private clinics), go to the health center’s website:
www.kanesatakehealthcenter.ca
If you aren’t sure if you should go to a clinic or the
emergency ward, you can call info sante at: 811. The
services offered and the operating days and hours of
these clinics may vary, so you may want to call the
general phone number for this information.
www.kanesatakehealthcenter.ca
Kaniatarak’ta Certification continued from front page
doorways in the patients’ rooms and two of the exits had to be expanded
to 48-inches wide so the beds would fit through. The funds for these
renovations had been secured during the term of the previous council.
The home also requires that two PABs are on the floor for all shifts,
for the safety of the residents, (for transferring, good care, and in case
of emergency). They have regular fire drills; during the last fire drill the
evacuation took 45-sec. for 5 residents. There will also be a code of ethics
implemented, including a code of professional conduct. The PABs are
also required to get their training upgraded, even if they have been doing
the job for years. They are attending the 630-hour upgrade course, on
site at the elder’s home and on their own time; no one gets paid to be
there. The course is costing $15,000.00 and although some of the cost has
been funded through MCK, KHRO and some of it donated, including a
contribution from Pierre Belisle’s pharmacy in the village, the staff have
also been fund raising to help cover part of the cost and are paying a
portion out of their own pockets. The French speaking preposées’ are also
being trained at the CLSC to administer inhalers and in drug distribution
to be in compliance with Law-90, the Preposée Act. The English speaking
preposées’ will get the same instruction in English, from Carolie Brassard,
who has been trained by the CLSC.
Marie Josée says on behalf of the riverside team,“All staff played
an important part for the acquisition of certification: the head nurse,
LPN, the cook, the PABs, and the janitor. I want to emphasize all the
community members who participated in different ways to improve the
home and the well-being of elders. Derek and Russell Denis and many
long-time employees doing the ground maintenance. The list is long and
we don’t want to forget anyone. We would like to thank everyone who
helped us monetarily, materially, physically, and morally. ”
Recently, Kaniatarak’ta Riverside Elders Home has seen a big
increase in their resident population, going from a low of two, to a total
of seven, “soon to be eight,” Marie Josée says. They still have room for
four more residents. She and Carolie are proud of the quality of care
at the facility and encourage people in the community to call her with
any questions they may have about it or visit themselves to see the kind
of care they can provide. They are planning an open house in the near
future. They still offer respite care for families who may need a break
from looking after a relative who is not as autonomous as they used to be.
They still offer 2.5 hours of care per patient per day. They would
like to be able to increase it to 3 hours and also offer palliative care in the
future, but this would require hiring a doctor, another nurse, and more
preposées’ and they don’t currently have the resources to do this. The
certification they’ve received means that they are in compliance with the
standards and can stay open. It doesn’t mean that Marie Josée is not going
to push for something better in the future, “But right now it’s one step at
a time.”
4
www.kanesatakehealthcenter.ca
Elder’s Center News
by Noreen Cree
Oct. 15, 2012. Greetings! I hope everyone is doing well.
On September 5th we enjoyed a delicious roast beef dinner
with our visitors from the Dokis Nation. Their community
is situated near Lake Nipissing, Ontario. The visitors were
the grand chief, a councillor, a professor, and an elder. They
were accompanied by Mandy Simon, who was their guide
around the community. See Amanda Simon’s story on page
5 and 6.
They visited different points of interest in the
community. They gave our elders gifts; special candles for
the ladies and for the men, native caps, books of their history
and their nation’s maps. Then I gave the grand chief a hand
made rug made by Charlene Lange and I gave the men native
caps. They really appreciated meeting the elders along with
the gifts and the food. They said that they would like to come
back and interact with our community. I told them we would
enjoy that.
On Sept. 26th, we enjoyed having lunch with the elders
from Akwesasne. Our cook made chicken pot pie. They
shared stories of days gone by and they said that they always
enjoy coming to our center for luncheons and visiting. Until
the next update, please stay well.
Please Note the phone number for Kanesatake Home and Community Care is now
the same as the health center:
(450) 479-6000
Please also note that the new fax number
for the Kanesatake Home and Community
Care Number is now:
(450) 479-1863
www.kanesatakehealthcenter.ca
Visit from the Dokis First Nation
September 5th and 6th 2012
by Amanda Simon,
Lands Manager MCK
I
n late August I was contacted by
Gerry Duquette Jr., a gentlemen I
met about five years ago through the
National Aboriginal Lands Management
Association of Canada. He told me that
a community member and Professor of
the Nipissing University of North Bay
had discovered information connecting
Kanehsatake and Dokis during the fur trade.
The Dokis wanted to have the opportunity
to meet Kanehsatakeron:non to confirm our
connection and ask permission to include
these findings in their future heritage center.
Dokis First Nation is a community located
on the boundaries that separate the Districts
of Parry Sound, Sudbury and Nipissing,
approximately 16-kilometers South-West
of Lake Nipissing on the French River. The
community is accessed by a 25 kilometer
gravel road from Highway 64 leading to
the two nearest urban centers of North Bay,
via Highway 17 and Sudbury via Highway
69. Both centers are approximately 120
kilometers from the community.
The total membership of the community is steadily climbing with over 1071
members with a residential population of
approximately 200. In the summer months,
the population increases. The community
has a growing population and a commitment to sustain and improve the quality of
life for all its members, both on and offreserve.
Languages: Ojibway, English and French
Spirituality: Roman Catholic and Native Culture
Families: Majority of Dokis First Nation
residents are “Dokis” and
“Restoule”.
On Wednesday September
5th 2012, I arranged to have the
Dokis Nation visit Kanehsatake.
Our honoured guests were: Grand
Chief Denise Resotoule, Deputy
Chief and elder Leonard Dokis,
Professor Terry Dokis of the University of Nipissing, and Gerry Duquette Jr., Dokis Councillor, Consultation Coordinator.
We started our day with
a warm greeting from Hilda
Nicholas,
Program
Manager
and Ellen Gabriel, Cultural Coordinator
of the Language and Cultural Center
of Kanehsatake. Hilda and Ellen made
our guests feel welcome with a warm
cup of coffee and discussions about our
rich Kanehsatake Mohawk Culture. A
connection of our cultures were discussed
and embraced with a promise to keep the
connection alive. This was surely the basis
for future discussions and meetings.
Following our visit to the Language
and Cultural Center we were welcomed at
the Elders Lodge by Noreen Cree Simon
her tireless volunteers and our very own
elders! The food was excellent! A feast of
corn soup, Roast beef and all the trimmings
were graciously served. Our guest from the
Dokis Nation gifted all of our elders with
gifts from their first nation. A great time
was had by all and my sincerest thanks to
Noreen and the Elders Lodge.(See Noreen’s
story on page 3.)
At the Elders Lodge we received a
gracious invitation, from Mavis Etienne,
to visit the Onen’to:kon Treatment Center.
She shared some stories and enlightened
our visitors about our rich culture and
the sometimes difficult times we have
survived.
Next on the agenda was a visit to
Moccasin Joe Coffee Roasters. Walter
David greeted our group with a hot cup of
his finest coffee and warm conversation.
Niá:wen Walter!
Our day ended with a meeting at the
Mohawk Council of Kanehsatake Chiefs;
John Canatonquin, Sonya Gagnier and
Shannon Nicholas. Niá:wen to our Chiefs!
Finally to cap off the day I prepared a dinner
at my house for our visitors. Chiefs Sonya
Gagnier, Shannon Nicholas, and Hilda
Nicholas were invited guests. Following a
good meal our visitors gifted our Language
and Cultural Center with some wonderful
gifts from Dokis. I invite community
members to visit the Center to view our
new gifts from our new friends.
The following day I took our visitors
for a tour of our community. A great
time was had by all, and I wish to thank
everyone who helped me in welcoming our
new friends to Kanehsatake!
The Mohawk Council of Kanehsatake
Chief, Shannon Nicholas, will be working
with the Dokis Nation to bring our youth to
their territory to learn how to hunt, fish and
trap. We are hoping to have this organized
between the two communities as soon as
we can. I have taken a few pictures to share
with the community.
5
www.kanesatakehealthcenter.ca
Elders visit from
Akwesasne
by Amanda Simon, Lands Manager MCK
C
hief Sonya Gagnier asked for me to accompany the
District Tribe Elders of Akwesasne on Wednesday
September 26th 2012 due to a conflicting engagement.
Although only four of the District Tribe Elders (Margie Thompson,
coordinator, Betty Swamp, Bessie Mitchell and Yvonne Chump)
made it to Kanehsatake, we certainly enjoyed our time together.
Unfortunately, a second van of Akwesasne elders got lost and did
not make it for the visit. They were missed at the visit, but are safe
and sound.
The ladies arrived at the Elders Lodge at about 1:30 p.m.,
unfortunately many of our elders had already left the luncheon.
The ladies were well received as usual by Noreen Simon and her
volunteers.
Following a great lunch at the Elders Lodge we went over the
Jude Pomme apple orchard. We were met there by our fellow elder
Agnes McDonald. We enjoyed an apple tasting with an employee
of Jude pomme. She explained the different varieties of apples, and
other fruit grown at the orchard. Needless to say, we all purchased
apples and loaded our vehicles with the fresh harvest of fall.
Niá:wen to The Kanehsatake Elders Lodge and Jude Pomme.
In closing we include the following quote from “My Heart Soars”
by Chief Dan George
as inspiration to us
all:“There is a longing in the heart of my
people to reach out
and grasp that which
is needed for our survival. There is a longing among youth of
my nation to secure
for themselves and
their people the skills that will provide them with a sense of worth
and purpose. They will be our new warriors. Their training will be
much longer and more demanding than it was in the older days.
The long years of study will demand more determination; separation from home and family will demand endurance. But they will
emerge with their hand held forward, not to receive welfare, but to
grasp the place in society that is rightly ours.”
Joe-Anna’s Restaurant is now an official distributor
of Kahnawake’s K103 Radio Bingo Packages!
Not only that, you can also play the game at the restaurant every
Friday in a friendly and familiar spot. And be eligible to win door prizes
on site. Bingo dabbers are also available for sale.
Don’t want to drive to Kahnawake to pick up your winnings? No problem,
Joe-Anna’s will pick it up for you when they pick up the card packages.
Games begin at 8:00 PM every Friday, but if you are playing at the
restaurant you are asked to get there for 7:30 PM. Want more info: Call
(450) 479 1054
6
www.kanesatakehealthcenter.ca
NEW!
Free support group For cancer patients
and their caregivers, in english.
every 4th thursday of the month
Beginning thursday, october 25, 2012
united church hall, 240 st-Martin in oka
From 7:00 p.m. until 8:30 p.m.
The Canadian Cancer Society, in cooperation with 4 Korners Family Resource Center, is pleased
to offer a free support group for cancer patients and their caregivers, in English. A healthcare
professional and a trained volunteer who has personal experience dealing with cancer facilitate
the meetings. The group provides a welcoming environment where people can share their own
experiences and obtain practical information on all aspects of the disease.
Canadian Cancer Society . Laval / Lanaudière / Laurentides Regional Office, 1419 Michelin Street, Laval (Québec) H7L 4S2 . 450 668-1013 | 1 888 668-1013
7
www.kanesatakehealthcenter.ca
Aronhiatekha/Rotiwennakehte Update
by Angela Gabriel
A
s usual the school is planning a Remembrance Day
Ceremony for Friday, November 9th. Community members
are welcome to meet us at the Pine Hill Cemetery on this
day at 11:00 a.m.
The teachers and staff at Rotiwennakehte/Aronhiatekha
School are currently preparing for the Christmas holidays. The
teachers and staff always make gift baskets to raffle at our Christmas
concert. We all buy or donate what we can for each basket and we
donate the proceeds from these baskets to charity. In the past, we’ve
donated to the Montreal Children’s Hospital and to our own elder’s
home. We’ve yet to decide whom we will donate to this year but we
will be donating it to a worthy cause.
8
Once before, we were successful collecting Canadian Tire
money to help fill the baskets. We would like to try this again;
we are therefore asking members of the community to donate
any Canadian Tire money they may have that’s collecting dust in
between the car seats, stuffed in the glove compartments, in junk
drawers, etc., etc. We will happily take any amount off your hands.
We are collecting now and right up until Dec. 10th. Please send it in
or drop it off at the school as soon as you can. Nia:wen.
www.kanesatakehealthcenter.ca
Hibou’s Sports Update
by Brandon “Hibou” Etienne
Hibou’s 6th Annual Softball Tournament,
Already it’s the 6th year of my tournament, and another success
it was. With 40 players signed up to play, it looked to be another
competitive year. Four teams were made, each with designated
colors. TEAM RED consisted of Eddy Gabriel, Mark Tolley,
Terry Zwicker, Pat Filippelli, Pat Gelinas, Michel Lemieux, J.C.
Lemieux, Zach Toohey, and Jesse Rice. TEAM ORANGE/BLACK
had Brandon Etienne, Will Gareau, Chester Nelson, Shawn Nelson,
Jonathan Daoust, Mike Andreozzi, Bridgette Beauvais, Crystal
Diabo, and Joanne Etienne. TEAM WHITE had Travis Etienne,
Randy Etienne, Brandon Bonspiel, Mike Gabriel, Jason Nelson,
Jansen Nicholas, Kyle Canatonquin, Susan Oke, and Stephanie
Lacroix. And finally TEAM GREY were Kevin Simon, Matt
Simon, Tim Cree, Greg Cree, Nevada Baker, Andrea Nelson,
Selena Beauvais, and Ashley Oke.
The Tournament format was a round robin, which means
every team faced each other once. After 6 round robin games and
two semi final games, which had some terrific catches, plays and
hits, there was only two teams remaining, TEAM RED VS. TEAM
GREY! In the end TEAM RED was just too strong to beat with the
final ending with a 15-7 score in REDS favor. Congratulations to
the RED TEAM!
During the tournament we also held a home run derby for both
males and females/ 14 and under boys. The winner of the female/
14 and under boys was Teha Diabo with 3 home runs. The men
needed a second round to decide the winner with Eddy Gabriel
turning on the jets and smashing 3 out of the park to be named 2013
HRK (Home-run-king).
Finally I would like to thank all the players who played, the
crowd who came out to watch, any volunteer umpires and ground
crew who helped out, maintenance for keeping the field in good
condition, and the biggest thank you to the Ringuette fund raisers
who kept the players fed and hydrated throughout the tournament.
Niá:wen.
2nd Annual 4 on 4 Lacrosse Tournament
On October 20th I held, for the second time, a 4 vs. 4 lacrosse tournament. I do this to give everybody one last chance to get together and
play the Creators game in the pines. A total of 23 players came out to play. Four teams were made.
TEAM 1
Kevin Simon
Brandon Etienne
Will Gareau
Sterling Mallette
Randy Etienne
TEAM 2
TEAM 3
Smokey Richard
Tathe Nelson
Stevie Gabriel
Leo (Akwesasne) Nevada Baker
Vincent Cree
Joeseph Beauvais
G.P. Carbonell
Jeff Nelson
Shawn Nelson
LIL’ GUY
TEAM 4
Jansen Nicholas
Michael Harding
Teki Albany
Mike Gabriel
Bobby White
Frank Hannaburg and Greg Cree played goalie throughout the tournament, which consisted
of 9 games! It was great to see the mixture of youth and adults playing together. There were
great plays, awesome goals, and even better saves throughout the day but in the end there has
to be a winner. In the final TEAM 2 played TEAM 3 for the championship. In a great game
with stellar goaltending TEAM 3 scored with 2 minutes left in the game to take the lead for
good in a 2-1 final. Good job TEAM 3 for putting together a great game and winning. I hope
to see more people out next year as I plan to make this a yearly thing. Niá:wen
9
www.kanesatakehealthcenter.ca
2013 Calendar
Photo Contest
Theme: Photos must relate to the theme of health: healthy community, healthy activites (sports,
gardening, traditional activities etc.), healthy places (nature, peaceful surroundings), photographed in
and around Kanesatake.
This contest is open to all Kanesatake community members.
Rules:
1st prize $100 2nd prize $50 3rd prize $25
All photos must be original and submitted by the photographer.
All photos submitted become the property of the Kanesatake Health Center Inc. and winning photos
will be featured in the 2013 Solvent Abuse Prevention Calendar. Other non-winning photos may also be
featured.
Photos submitted digitally must be of high quality (300 dpi in jpeg or tif format).
Printed photo submissions must be on high quality photo paper.
Each photo submitted must be accompanied by a single paragraph (Maximum 75 words) about why the
photo was chosen, where and when it was taken, and how it relates to the contest theme. You need to
also include name and contact number. Any submission that does not meet criteria will be disqualified.
DEADLINE: Friday, November 16, 2012
Bring entries to the Kanesatake Health Center or email digital photos to:
[email protected] or [email protected]
10
www.kanesatakehealthcenter.ca
Winter Driving
taken from: http://www.getprepared.gc.ca/cnt/rsrcs/sfttps/tp201002-eng.aspx
A
long with colder temperatures, snow, and ice, winter also
brings potentially dangerous driving conditions. Slippery
roads and decreased visibility can make driving in Canadian winters a challenge. Get prepared by following a few simple
tips, provided by Public Safety Canada in collaboration with the
Canadian Automobile Association.
Slow down – Fog, black ice, slush or snow-covered roads can make
driving dangerous. Drive slowly and leave plenty of distance between vehicles.
Get winter tires – Traction is the key to good movement, turning
• Small shovel, scraper and snowbrush
and stopping on wet, slushy or icy surfaces. Check tires and tire
• Candle in a deep can and matches
pressure at least once a month when tires are cold and remember
• Crank/solar flashlight
that tire air pressure decreases in colder weather. Winter tires
• Whistle – in case you need to attract attention
provide additional traction in colder weather.
• Roadmaps
Top-up windshield fluid - Fill up on winter washer fluid and
• Copy of your emergency plan
replace wiper blades that streak. Make sure there is enough
• Also keep these inside your trunk:
windshield washer fluid in the reservoir and that it is rated in the
• Sand, salt or cat litter (non clumping)
-40C temperature range. Carry an extra jug in the vehicle.
• Antifreeze/windshield washer fluid
Keep the gas tank topped up - When driving in bad weather,
• Tow rope
think caution, plan ahead and make sure you have enough fuel.
• Jumper cables
Keep the fuel tank at least half full.
• Fire extinguisher
See and be seen - clear all snow from the hood, roof, windows and
lights. Clear all windows of fog or ice. If visibility becomes poor,
find a place to safely pull off the road as soon as possible.
• Warning light or road flares
Print or download the Emergency car kit checklist. Check off the
items for your car emergency kit as you accumulate them.
Get an emergency car kit – Have the appropriate safety and
Learn more about road safety and winter driving by visiting the
emergency winter equipment always stored in your car. The basic
Transport Canada website.
emergency kit for cars should include the following items:
• Food – that won’t spoil, such as energy bars
• Water – in plastic bottles so they won’t break if frozen (change every six months)
• Blanket
• Extra clothing and shoes
• First aid kit – with seatbelt cutter
11
www.kanesatakehealthcenter.ca
New Horizon Seniors Project
by Jocelyn “Kitty” Bonspille
T
he Kanesatake Health Center is coordinating activities
sponsored by Service Canada’s seniors initiative the “New
Horizons.” This came about when Julie Boileau, RN, Community Health Nurse, developed a proposal and was funded. The
Elders were consulted on several occasions on what their interests
were. They spoke about passing on the richness of our history and
culture, not losing our language and sharing and teaching the youth.
This is the reason the elders have extended the invitation to the
community and for the youth especially, to get involved. Through
efforts of Julie Boileau, Noreen Cree, and myself Kitty Bonspille,
several activities have started:
Ribbon Shirt Making at the United Church Hall from September
2012 until December 2012. Karennahawi (Hawi) McComber is
sharing her skills in teaching this course: Monday’s at the United
Church Hall. There was overwhelming response to this activity, so
there are now two sessions; one Monday afternoon from 1:30 p.m.
to 3:30 p.m. and Monday evenings 6:30 pm. to 8:30 pm. In total
there are 16 participants. Mostly all the participants have cut their
pattern materials and overlocked. The fun part has begun; getting
creative and designing and mastering the art of designs on the
shirts. I am excited to see the end results of the designs.
Mavis Etienne, along with her sister Noreen Cree is facilitating
a Mohawk Hymn Group: Monday’s Kaniatarak’ta Riverside
Elders Home: Every Monday evening from 6:00 pm. to 7:00 pm.
There are approximately 14 participants attending and the group
is growing each week. The Residents at the home participate and
appreciate hearing hymns in their language. It brings them back to
their youth!! There was a tradition where families and community
members came together, rotating homes, to host hymn singing
in the language, to socialize, share baked goods and drink tea &
coffee.
Tiffany McGregor, is teaching Moccasin Making on Tuesday
evenings at the United Church Hall from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm, Tiffany
is sharing her skills in making decorative miniature moccasins ( for
rear view mirror car display or just a decorative piece to hang to
enjoy our culture). There are 9 participants and it’s growing with
new persons wanting to join each week so call: (450) 479 6000
ask for Kitty. Everyone is welcome to join at anytime to learn how
to bead and assemble the moccasins.
If you are interested in continuing or mastering any of the crafts,
and in passing down this important cultural heritage come and
join us, in any of the events mentioned in this article, learn and
share, tell stories. To continue singing hymns in our language
or to make traditional arts continue after the Christmas Holiday
Call us 450 479 6000 and join. If interested we are also looking
for story tellers for the Oral History Group call Noreen Cree:
(450) 479 6328 or Kitty Bonspille (450) 479 6000.
12
www.kanesatakehealthcenter.ca
Mothering Across the Generations:
Honoring Breastfeeding
By Karennaha:wi McComber
O
n November 1st we held a small
gathering through the Baby Friendly
Initiative at the KYOT Youth Center. An
invitation went out to include expectant mothers,
new mothers, as well as, our breastfeeding/
peer support women. The invitation was also
extended to their mothers, grandmothers, or
any women they feel are a part of their support
system. This resulted in a gathering of women
from all stages of motherhood, new mothers,
experienced mothers, grandmothers and even
a soon to be great-grandmother! The gathering
focused on breastfeeding and how it has changed
throughout our generations. We tackled some of
the truths & myths surrounding breastfeeding,
the importance of bonding, as well as, its health
and the nutritional benefits. We shared our
struggles, our triumphs and most importantly our
common bond. It was so empowering to see the
amount of strength and support shared amongst
our mothers. I would like to thank everyone for
attending and for sharing your experiences, you
are all truly inspiring!
13
Field Biology in Kanesatake
by Jasmin Gunn
F
or the past two months PierreAlexandre, a field biologist
from the Eco Museum Zoo in
Montreal, accompanied by myself, a
herpetology enthusiast, have been doing
research on the many varied reptiles and
amphibians in the Kanesatake area. A
reptile in Quebec is a turtle or snake, they
are called reptiles because they can lay
their hard-shell eggs on land, and are not
tied to the water in that way. Amphibians
on the other hand need the water to lay
their eggs and they also have permeable
skin, not scales. Locally, amphibians
are salamanders and frogs or toads.
This project was developed by Chief
Sonya Gagnier and Chief Shannon
Nicholas of the Environmental portfolio
for Mohawk Council of Kanesatake.
After receiving permission from the
Council to scour the land, we were able
to find such beautiful creatures as the
painted turtle, wood frog, garter snake,
and many more. A beautiful jewel from
these is the blue spotted salamander,
its blue spots were dazzling and it also
seemed to have a charming smile.
Growing up in Kanesatake, and having
worked with animals before, this project
excited my interest in wildlife, my
intrigue over reptiles and amphibians
was especially peaked. During the
project I found Kanesatake was home
to some great surprises, like the spotted
newt, and red-bellied snake. There were
other great finds as well, including the
bullfrog, the green frog, the map turtle,
the two lined salamander, the milk snake,
and a plethora of others! To find some
of these herps we used a technique to
14
search under natural and other cover
objects called flipping, other times we
used patience and binoculars, or just
being at the right place at the right time,
and we still haven’t found them all!
Our goal was to create an inventory of
what species Kanesatake has, and to map
out on the Global Positioning System the
places where we found certain reptiles
on our many hikes through the swamps,
shores, and mountains of Kanesatake.
The points we collect create a general
guideline for future reference of species
population and locations. With this project
completed, in the spring we will visit
places we found around the community
called “hot spots” and we will also be
checking up on our shingles we placed to
attract snakes. The shingles attract them
because they act as flat rocks, holding
the heat of the day at a good temperature.
We also hope to discover new species,
and breeding grounds for the reptiles and
amphibians we share our habitat with.
We did not remove or harm any of our
local species, and were very respectful
of the land. We just want to help with
research and conservation of our home
land reptiles and amphibians. If you have
any information or stories you would like
to share with us about your experiences
with frogs, snakes, salamanders, or
turtles please send them to Chief
Sonya Gagnier at gagnier.sonya@
kanesatake.ca or call (450) 479-8373.
We would like send out a big Nia:wen
to those who were cooperative in letting
us discover reptiles and amphibians in
Kanesatake, and hope to hear from you
& see you again in the spring.
www.kanesatakehealthcenter.ca
Photos: Pierre Alexandre
Jasmin holding a salamander
red bellied snake
Wood Frog
Photo: Jasmin Gunn. Blue spotted salamander
www.kanesatakehealthcenter.ca
Did You Know?
by Julie Boileau, Community Health Nurse
• In the Gazette from October 29, 2012, it’s stated that a new
research found that :”flu shot ,may cut heart attack risk”. 1
Get the facts –
then get the flu vaccine
• The flu is different from a cold. The flu causes fever, cough,
fatigue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and a general feeling of illness.
• Influenza is a highly contagious disease that infects millions
of Canadians every year. Around 8 000 people WILL DIE due to
related complications like pneumonia.
• The flu vaccine CANNOT GIVE YOU THE FLU. This vaccine
does not contain any live virus. The influenza vaccine contains part
of the three most common strands of viruses in order to prompt your
immune system to create the right antibodies to fight the real virus.
• Possible complications are: ear infections2, sinusitis, bronchitis,
pneumonia, death.3
(Endnotes)
1 The Gazette, montrealgazette.com, Monday, October 29, 2012, page A8
2. Santé et ser vices sociaux, 10-278-22A, Gouvernement du Québec, 2011
3 http :www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/chn-rcs/flufacts-eng.php
• It is a myth that the flu shot doesn’t work. Getting vaccinated
is the most effective means to reduce the impact of influenza. The
vaccine against the right strains of influenza will prevent the illness
in approximately 70 to 90% of healthy children and adults.
flu bug taken from mycutegraphics.com
National Aboriginal Addictions Awareness Week
November 18th – 24th, 2012
by Leo Parent, NNADAP Worker
treatment.
We will have information offered from a representative from
Upcoming Event!
the SQ about the different Laws and legal fines that can be handed
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! The leaves are turning
a motorized vehicle. As always we will be enjoying a wonderful
beautiful colors, the wood stoves are a crackling and of course the
meal and cake to help us celebrate sobriety!! Stay tuned for more
Keep the Circle Strong event is right around the corner!
information regarding this event and remember to check the mail
This year the event will be held on Wednesday November
21st at the Ratihente High school Gymnasium. We will be featuring
down to a person when they are under the influence and operating
for our flyers, or you may miss out on some fantastic events that are
happening in and around Kanesatake!!!!
guest speakers who will share their journey into addictions and
their battle for sobriety. We will also have information booths from
the Kanesatake Health Center staff that will explain how alcohol
and drugs affect a person’s health in the areas of Prenatal health,
Diabetes, Mental Health, and Addictions. We will also have info
from our friends, the Onen’to:kon Outreach Team who will share
their expertise on their services they provide and for those seeking
15
www.kanesatakehealthcenter.ca
Report on the 2nd Youth Forum: August 2012
by Pamela Gabriel-Ferland
T
The forum inspired me and left me feeling hopeful for
our Nation, but it also left me feeling heavy hearted as I thought
his past August I had the opportunity to attend the 2nd
of my own community and the challenges we are facing. Despite
Youth Forum hosted by the Assembly of First Nations
the good intentions of our elected officials for the past 20 years,
of Quebec and Labrador. This 3-day conference, set
very little has changed for Kanesatake, and in fact, I fear it may
in scenic and beautiful Mont St. Anne in Beaupré just outside
Quebec City, was open to all youth and meant to not only inspire
but also mobilize youth to improve situations for young people.
have deteriorated.
I always hope that our leaders will work together, respect
each other, but I am often let down. All this said, I do not blame
Thanks to the efforts of Chief Sonya Gagnier— who is
nor judge, but observe and feel sadness at the lack of collaboration
always trying to get youth to attend these gatherings, and the
and the lack of accountability to the people of Kanesatake.
Regional Youth Coordinator Serge Rock, I was able to attend. A
I know in my heart of hearts that there is hope. There is hope
major goal of this conference is Mr. Rock’s work towards creating
within me because I want to change things for the better in our
a youth network, as he believes change and the future for our
community. Watching my own children grow I cannot help but
people can come from our youth. Using the latest in technology,
feel responsible to try and make Kanesatake better. I contribute
he even launched a Twitter account during the conference that
where and when I can. I do not know how, or who else will bring
aims to reach out to Aboriginal youth all over.
about change in this community but I too believe our future rests
I attended and participated in two and a half days of
with the Youth. No one is going to come save us. People may
workshops facilitated by various presenters who imparted their
help but it is the people of Kanesatake that should make it better.
knowledge, experience, and hope on a range of topics. These
If no one cares to, then we are lost and so are our children, and
topics included leadership and involvement, the multiple aspects
their children.
of communication, Aboriginal people: fact or fiction, the web and
I invite all Kanesatakehró:non to ask themselves “What
social media, goal development, entrepreneurship among First
are we doing today that will help the future of Kanesatake, it’s
Nations youth, employment measures and careers of the future
community members, it’s families and it’s children?” I personally
in our communities, and finally, First Nations youth mobilization.
have had enough of being a bystander, reacting and feeling
I witnessed stories shared by other youth and their challenges
hopeless, and counting on Council to do something for us. The
in their communities. One particularly touching story, presented
youth are the future and that future lies in our hands. Outside
in a short film was the Innu’s battle against “Le Projet du Nord”
of Kanesatake, there is a whole movement aimed at improving
which is exploiting Quebec’s Northern resources. Sadly, the
our lives, and our communities. Gatherings take place often, and
Innu were completely left out of negotiations. I even enjoyed a
organizations exist to help at many levels. I ask all those with
barbeque at the summit of Mont St. Anne. Best of all was that I
even a slight interest to get involved. I also ask that if anyone is
attended the conference with Emily, my little 10-month-old girl
interested in bettering this very community or is just tired of the
who was welcomed by the forum staff and youth alike to be in
way things are, or has any great ideas or would like to contribute
the workshops too.
to contact me. Together perhaps we can make a difference J
16
www.kanesatakehealthcenter.ca
Holiday Safety
taken from the Health Canada website: Healthy Living Section
Minimizing Your Risk
Here are some tips to help you enjoy a safe and happy holiday.
Toys and gifts
Choose toys that are right for the child’s age. Be sure to read and
follow all warnings and instructions that come with the toy.
• Toys with small loose parts can be dangerous for children under
three years of age. Keep them out of reach.
• Make sure batteries in toys are properly installed and not
accessible to the child. Do not let children take battery-operated
toys to bed.
• Throw out all packing materials like Styrofoam pellets, ties,
plastic bags and wrapping as soon as possible. Children can choke
or suffocate on them.
• For fire safety, loose-fitting sleepwear (including nightgowns,
bathrobes, baby-doll pyjamas and loose pyjamas) must be made
from polyester, nylon, or polyester/nylon blends. Tight-fitting
styles (such as sleepers or polo pyjamas) may be made from cotton
or cotton blends.
Candles
• Never leave burning candles unattended.
• Keep burning candles out of the reach of children and away
from pets, tree decorations or wrapping paper.
• Cut candle wicks short to prevent a high flame.
• If candles are used in a centre piece, make sure they don’t burn
low enough to ignite decoration.
• Use sturdy candle holders that won’t easily tip over.
Holiday trees
• When buying a real tree, check that it is fresh (needles are hard to
pull off). Water the tree daily. Trees can consume up to four litres
of water a day.
• Store the tree in a cool, sheltered area until it is brought indoors
for decorating. If it will be several days before it is brought indoors,
store it outdoors or on a cool porch or patio. Protect the tree from
wind and sun to help it retain its moisture.
• Make sure the tree is well secured in a sturdy stand.
• Place the tree away
from high traffic areas,
doorways, heating vents,
radiators, stoves, fireplaces
and burning candles.
• Keep
metal
tree
ornaments and decorations
away from young children.
Metal decorations may
contain lead that can be
harmful to young children
if they put them in their
mouths.
• If young children are around, avoid decorations that are sharp,
breakable or have small removable parts, or put those decorations
out of reach at the top of the tree.
• Remove the tree right after the holidays or as soon as the needles
start to fall to avoid a potential fire hazard. Dispose of it according
to local regulations. Many municipalities have tree recycling
programs.
Holiday lights
• When decorating your home, only use lights that have been
certified by a recognized organization such as CSA, ULC or C-UL.
• Make sure you use indoor lights inside your home and outdoor
lights outside.
• Check all light bulbs before use up and replace broken or burnedout bulbs with those recommended by the manufacturer.
• Check the light strings and extension cords you use, throwing
out any that are frayed or have exposed wires, loose connections or
broken light sockets. Never run electrical cords through doorways
or under carpets.
• Do not overload electrical outlets. Use more than one outlet or
power bar if the wattage of your lights is more than the outlet can
handle.
• Keep bubbling lights away from children. They contain a
hazardous chemical that can cause irritation or chemical burns if
the bulb breaks and the chemical is released.
• Turn off all holiday lights before you go to bed or leave your
home.
17
www.kanesatakehealthcenter.ca
Mini-Mohawk Lesson
Courtesy of Tsi Ronterihwanónhnha ne Kanien’kéha Language and Culture Center
Frozen ground
Iaonhará:ien
Winter
Akohserà:ke
Snow storm is coming
Tekanien’kwataséhe
Near Christmas
Atonniahkwákta
Christmas
Rotón:ni
Announcements
Adryan
October 27
Happy elated 6th birthday to our Tiny
Dancer! You’re going to be a star
Adryan-River!
Love mommy, Daddy, Hank and
Teionata’a!
&
Happy birthday Hailey!
November 28th
Have a great day!
From your BFF Adryan!
18
Hank
December 23
Happy 9th birthday to our boy!!! We want
the world for you! Keep your dreams in
sight and you’ll have no problem getting
there!
Love you forever!
Mom, Dad & your sisters
Mark
October 28th
Happy belated birthday to an amazing
husband and father! Who always puts his
family first! You are our everything! We
love! Love! Love you!!! Always and forever...your wife and children xox
The Kanesatake Health Center wishes the community a joyous
and safe Christmas and New Year! Please don’t drink and drive!
www.kanesatakehealthcenter.ca
Thanks
I wanted to take a few minutes to express
my heartfelt gratitude and give a huge pat
on the back and community high five to
Kanesatakehro:non’s Paramedic technician Steve Simon.
Thanksgiving weekend our family called
on the help of the ambulance services to
respond to a family emergency, upon arrival Steve emerged from the ambulance
and immediately took action to help a
family member get the urgent care that
was needed.
Steve was calm, friendly; he showed
compassion to our family member and
was professional and very understanding.
Once at the hospital he helped us with
triage and ensured our family member
was “taken care of” by their staff. I
cannot express to you how reassuring
and comforting it was to have one of
our people respond to an emergency
situation and offer care the way he did.
My family member wasn’t treated as
“another patient” or “another number to
enter”, and we greatly appreciate that
from our professional service.
So Steve, good job! “high five” and
Niá:wen for serving and protecting our
family and community members. Your
work ethic doesn’t go unnoticed.
Niá:wen
Myrna and family
KHC Birthdays
Jocelyn “Kitty” Bonspille
November 4
Connie Nicholas
November 15
Shirrillean Nelson
December 25
David Belisle
December 30
Happy Birthday! Hope you all
have a great day!
Niá:wen, M&M’s from KHRO.
To:ta
Happy Birthday
Happy belated birthday to my handsome
son Mark! You are the bestest in the
westest. Proud of you and honored you’re
my boy.
Mom
Happy Birthday
Happy belated birthday Jeff! You are a
great addition, honored to have you in the
family.
Mom
Happy Birthday
to the following people:
Shyann Nelson Baker
November 23
Thanks
Doda John
December 6
I would like to take this opportunity to
thank everyone that helped me complete
my Masters Lacrosse season.
Hank Tolley
December 23
On behalf of the Kanesatake Human
Resources Office, Martha and I would like
to extend happy holidays and best wishes
for 2013 to you and your loved ones.
Happy belated birthday to my beautiful,
colorful, girl!
Noreen Cree
November 16
Donivan Diabo
December 20
Season’s Greetings
Adryan Ionheonhwe
October 27
Bubba (Ronnie Gabriel)
December 25
Valerie Gabriel
December 28, 2012
Best wishes for a great birthday!
Myrna, Nicky, Iehente & Raiden!
I really appreciate all the kind generosity.
This is a game I love, a game that represents “our” people.
The Creators game should always be
played with knowledge and respect.
I play for the people that have passed in
the spirit world, loved ones’ that are in the
present, and hope for “our” future players.
Niawenhkó:wa
Akwirente Victor Bonspille
19
www.kanesatakehealthcenter.ca
November
December
Movember: Prostate Cancer
Awareness Month
Lung Association’s Christmas Seal Campaign
Diabetes Month
Lung Cancer Awareness Month
Remembrance Day
November 11
National Seniors Safety Week
November 6-12
National Home Fire Safety Week
November 24-30
KHC Seasonal Flu Vaccination Clinic
November 10
World AIDS Day
December 1
National Day of Remembrance and Action
on Violence Against Women
December 6
Human Rights Day
December 10
Christmas Day
December 25
New Year’s Eve
December 31
World Diabetes Day
November 14
Dec. 4, 18
Nov. 2, 16, 30
December 14, 28
Nov. 5, 8, 12, 15
If you have questions or
comments regarding Karihwi:ios,
please email the editor:
[email protected]
Karihwi:ios Deadline
For January/February
DECEMBER 21, 2012
Nov. 6, 20
Leaves will be picked up
on the following days in November:
Karihwi:ios Proofreading:
Susan Oke, Diane Harding,
Leo Parent
Emergency Phone Numbers
Fire and Ambulance:
911
Police Emergency:
310-4141
*4141 (cell)
Police Non-emergency
(SQ office) (450) 479-1313
More photos
from Halloween
on page 8