From the Chief's Desk
January 2012
I hope want to wish all Citizens of Sagamok a belated Happy New Year. I am extremely happy to report that after six years, negotiations with Vale have concluded. At a Community Forum on January 6th we reviewed the final Sagamok Vale Impacts and Benefits Agreement. The IBA contains benefits that will provide employment and economic opportunities for our Citizens, especially the young people. The agreement also addresses our involvement in monitoring and protecting the environment. I am very pleased that the members present at the meeting on January 6th supported the agreement. Those wanting a copy of the IBA can receive one at the Administration Office, please contact Jackie Toulouse.
The planning of the Little NHL is well underway and we are confident that it will be a very memorable and exciting event for everyone attending. The opening ceremonies will get underway at 6 pm on March 11th and will feature R&B recording artist Shawn Desman. The evening agenda will also show case other performers. A unique aspect of the LNHL is the involvement of Right to Play. Young people will have the opportunity to participate in leadership programs. Anthony Pettis has also confirmed his attendance for the event. We are also working on providing daily transportation to the LNHL from Sagamok this will ensure that all Citizens of Sagamok have the opportunity to attend this wonderful event.
At the Council Meeting on January 11th support was given to the One Match Stem Cell and Marrow Network. One Match requires First Nation donors in order to help First Nations patients suffering from illnesses like leukemia and other life-threatening diseases. One Match Stem Cell and Marrow Network is working alongside Sagamok to recruit young, healthy, First Nations stem cell registrants to the Network. One Match and Sagamok believe The Little NHL is an ideal venue to bring attention to this important health issue and to register eligible donors as it will attract more than 5000 First Nations people to Sudbury for the event. Registering with One Match is simple and only takes about 10 minutes. By registering with One Match you are providing hope to all First Nations patients in need of a stem cell transplant and you might actually be the One Match to save a life. First Nations people are severely under-represented on the Network - and more are desperately needed to join. Sagamok Anishnawbek will work with One Match at the LNHL to bring more attention to this need and encourage more people to join. People can find out more about One Match at the LNHL and by going to www.onematch.ca.
Finally, I want to extend my deepest condolences to the Owl and Buswa families on the passing of Pastor Bernard Buswa. Pastor Buswa made many contributions to the community and assisted community members in need of spiritual uplifting. Bernard will be missed.
Baamaapii.