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www.nbifc.orgNEWSLETTERJULY 2024NORTH BAY INDIGENOUS FRIENDSHIP CENTREMiin Giizis (Berry Moon)ᐅ ᐸ ᐢ ᑯ ᐧᐃ ᐱ ᓯ ᒼ Opaskowiwi-piisim(moulting moon) Photo Credit: Victorian Tomagatick
Executive Director’s MessagePow Wow & PhotosAnnual General MeetingIndigenous Peoples DayStudents from SSLCBeading NightNipissing University GalaBannock MondayLLC ProgramSSLC GraduatesCommunity Beading CircleNBIFC Resource CentreYLP & CWP / Youth CouncilJob PostingsWild Rice & Berries RecipeWeekly Men’s Group PosterFamily Support ProgramSinging, Drumming, & DancingWaaban Paint WorkshopsWellness Wednesday’sOpen MicMoon of the Turning LeavesStaff Directory34679101112131516171819202122232425262728CONTENTSIf your organization wishes to feature Indigenous-relatedevents or activities in our newsletter, we would bedelighted to share them. Kindly send us an email atinquire@nbifc.org
Aniin Boozhoo, Wachey! Phew! We made it through June! Every year, June is by far our most hectic month, withso many events and important dates, yet it's also our most enjoyable month when we allget to gather as a community more than once! Kudos to all the staff for really pulling together and making each event, meeting, andgathering the wonderful things they are. This year, I had many compliments on the pow-wow; this had to be one of our best yet. To the record number of volunteers and donorsstepping forward and the support of community members, we couldn’t do it without you.The energy of the event was what we always hoped it would be: positive, happy and anexperience to remember. Chi Miigwetch to everyone who helped and attended with us. Iwas so happy to see a young drum group once again, and to see so many young dancerstaking to the dance circle, it shows our traditions are being passed on, and our youth arepicking it up. Executive Director, Sean Longboat from the OFIFC came to see the pow-wow for himselfand participate in the Grand Entry. He had no idea our event was so big, despite hearingabout it, it really is something that you have to come and see to appreciate. It really isenjoyable seeing someone’s first time reaction to our event. Our AGM had record attendance, and our Board members who were up for re-electionwere once again voted in. Maurice Switzer is our President, and I am so happy to beworking with him and the rest of our Board Amanda Mathias, Aaron St.Pierre, JoyceShortt-Lavigne, and Ken Brown. Chi-Miigwetch for your continued support. Indigenous Peoples Day is always a great event, and once again, it didn’t disappoint.Every time I see our community together, whether it be a big event like the pow wow, or asmaller event like Indigenous Peoples Day, I’m reminded that we truly have a greatcommunity, and we are so fortunate that our founders started the Centre for us to enjoy.Have a safe and enjoyable July! 3NBIFC NEWSLETTER JULY 2024Kathy Fortin
The Maamwi Kindaaswin Pow Wow was once again a greatsuccess, depite the occasional rainshower. Elders tell us thatrain during a gathering cleanses the grounds to give us agood celebration, and this year was no exception. Shortlyafter Sunrise ceremony, the numerous vendors startedsetting up, with an incredible array of products to sell. TheNBIFC Canteen was busy and lined up for ages, a testamentto the deliciousness of Trina’s secret recipe frybread. TheCommunity supper Saturday night got rained on, but thosethat held out to take part were rewarded with a nice bigmeal. Leftovers were distributed amongst communityseniors so they didn’t have to cook a meal or two. The Long Hair Special was hosted by Neebin Nakogee andJoe Ogle of Ottawa. Neebin started the Special years agowhen experiencing issues at school with bullying because ofhis hair. Both men shared the challenges of growing longhair, and how difficult yet rewarding it has been for both ofthem. Joe is an active member of the Air Force and has facedhis own challenges in growing his hair and created hairproducts specifically for Indigenous people, all made withIndigenous sourced products, as much as possible. Joe’scompany Sage for Hair will be on the pow wow trail for thesummer, supporting our young men and boys in their hairgrowing, and helping them reclaim this part of their heritage. KindaaswinKindaaswinpow-wowpow-wowTHE 16THTHE 16THANNUALANNUALMaamwiMaamwiThis year there were more youth dancers than adult. Its an excitingtime for our peoples as we see our ways gaining ground within ourown communities and our children learning to live in a good way. The drums were somehow extra special this year, as some of thesongs created such a great feeling on the grounds, you reallycouldn’t keep your feet still. We’d like to thank all the drummers,dancers, Eagle Staff carriers, Veterans, dignitaries, volunteers,vendors and attendees for making this event a special one. Thisevent has grown, just like the Friendship Centre has, and we lookforward to another 50 years of Friendship and celebrations like theMaamwi Kindaaswin Pow Wow. 4NBIFC NEWSLETTER JULY 2024
NBIFCPowWow2024Singing SpiritDrum Group
6NBIFC NEWSLETTER JULY 2024ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGThe North Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre had its AnnualGeneral Meeting on June 19th, 2024. We had 37 members attendthe meeting, followed by a wonderful dinner. The memberturnout has increased since last year, and we hope to have evengreater attendance next year. Richard Assinewai provided ouropening prayer and smudging. Draws and prizes were provided,along with presentations from our current President, MauriceSwitzer, and Executive Director, Kathy Fortin. Kathy acknowledgedthe talented work of our past and present Board of Directors forour current successes. A recognition award was presented to LeoDeLoyde for his dedicated service and contributions to ourcentre’s growth and incredible projects over the past 10 years,including the Suswin Village Transitional House, our land projectsand the now completed Miskwaadesi (‘Painted Turtle’) along theChippewa Creek EcoPath. Another accomplishment is the newNiizhwaas Asiniik Skoonweh Kahn - Seven Stones Learning Centrewhich held student graduations the day after our Annual GeneralMeeting (AGM). The NBIFC also maintained an excellent financialyear again as has been trending over the years.The membership nominated this year’s board members and theelection results are as follows:Maurice Switzer – President Ken Brown – Vice PresidentAmanda Mathias – SecretaryAaron St. Pierre – DirectorJoyce Shortt-Lavigne – TreasurerMiigwetch to all our members, Board of Directors and staff whomake our ongoing progress and success possible.
June 21st started out with a few drops of rain, butbefore you knew it, the rain stopped and it was asunny, beautiful day for gathering and enjoyingIndigenous Peoples Day. The North Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre (NBIFC)once again hosted an unforgettable IndigenousPeoples Day event that started with welcoming wordsfrom our Executive Director, Kathy Fortin, and ourrenewed President, Maurice Switzer. After theopening, the drumming and singing began, and theywere wonderful, filling the parking lot and surroundingarea with great energy. The event, inside and outsidethe Centre was packed with good times, great music,and lots of activities for all ages. Attendees of all ages participated in crafting, painting,and enjoying a delicious BBQ. The face paintingstation was busy putting their creative chops to work,making feathers, Minecraft, butterflies and even a fishskeleton or two parts of their repertoire of designs. The photo booth was a great touch, families andfriends taking the time to get a nice picture toremember the event by. Sweet treats like cotton candy, popcorn, and snowcones were a hit, as were the BBQ and salads. Thecake made by One More Bite Bakery was a drum,complete with drum kit. A drum never tasted so good! Thank you to everyone who participated and madethis day special. Here's to many more celebrations ofculture and community at the NBIFC!7NBIFC NEWSLETTER JULY 2024INDIGENOUS PEOPLESDAY
NBIFCIndigenous Peoples Day2024-Bernice & KimWhose bannock is better?
The students of Seven Stones LearningCentre spent some time out at the landon Riding Stable Road. Activities includedarchery, fire making and cooking over afire. Everyone had a great time, but moreimportantly had a chance to connect withthe land and spend time with each otherin a healthy outdoor setting. 99NBIFC NEWSLETTER JULY 2024NBIFC NEWSLETTER JULY 2024S T U D E N T S F R O M S S L CS T U D E N T S F R O M S S L C
BEADING NIGHTSBEADING NIGHTS10NBIFC NEWSLETTER JULY 2024Kim Stephen and Lynn Pearce are hostingbeading nights weekly on Tuesday eveningsfrom June to August.Beading nights are open to all levels ofbeaders! Whether you are just starting out or haveyears of experience, there's something foreveryone to enjoy. Participants can learnnew techniques, share tips, and createbeautiful pieces in a supportive and creativeenvironment.All necessary materials can be provided forsmall projects, but attendees are welcometo bring their own beads and tools if theyprefer. Refreshments will be available, and therewill be plenty of time to socialize and makenew friends who share a passion forbeading. Come join us for an evening ofcreativity, learning, and fun!If you’d like to participate, be sure to get intouch with Kim Steven, at daw@nbifc.org orcall (705)472-2811 ext. 217.We look forward to seeing you there!See poster for Julydates
Nipissing University Fundraiser agreat successAn Evening at Nipissing University: Together for Students, was held on Thursday, June 13, 2024,benefitting the Nipissing University Student Support Fund. This marquee event represents the startof an annual tradition for members of the community to gather in support of a critical area of needat the University. The funds raised is intended to support students when they encounter crisis, andthe fund will support them through it. It is designed to be non-specific as there can be any numberof emergencies for students, who are often on a very restricted budget when attending University. Kathy, Bertha, Sandra, Traci, Pearl, and Ruthattended the event, which featured an elegant 3course meal, and were treated to an inspiringconversation among a panel of high-profile,women leaders discussing their career trajectoriesand leadership expertise. Hosted by Global TVbroadcaster and Nipissing University honorarydegree recipient, Dr. Susan Hay. Panelistsincluded: Dr. Penny McIntyre, Corina Moore,Victoria Paine-Mantha, Cheryl Sutton, and theHonourable Jody Wilson-Raybould. 11NBIFC NEWSLETTER JULY 2024During the discussion, all the women in the panel had no plans of ending up where they now are, or assuccessful as they are. They all followed opportunities as they arose, even if they weren’t sure it wouldwork out.
For More Information:Kim Stephen(705) 472-2811 ext 217daw@nbifc.orgNorth Bay IndigenousFriendship CentreNorth Bay IndigenousFriendship CentreJust Just Another Another Bannock Bannock Monday !Monday !bannocktea coffeebannocktea coffeeJuly 8, 15, & 29from 1-3 pmJuly 8, 15, & 29from 1-3 pmIndigenous Mental Health and Wellness ProgramIndigenous Mental Health and Wellness Program
NBIFC NEWSLETTER JULY 202413LLC program treated the fathers from the program to a Father’s DayLuncheon at Beef n’ Brand Bar and Grill. These are the fathers that came outto our luncheon and each enjoyed their meal and company.Happy Father’s Day!The Tote Bag making session with the second group was a success. We welcomed two new clients toour sewing group, and the session went well. We hope they will continue to participate in the program.Another session is needed to finish the project.First Group Session Picture← Second Group sewing still in processLIFE LONG CARE PROGRAM
14NBIFC NEWSLETTER JULY 2024ISLAND QUEEN CRUISEISLAND QUEEN CRUISELLC program took some clients out to Parry Sound to ride the Cruise ship. The weather was perfect, withclear skies and a gentle breeze that carried the fresh scent of the lake. As the cruise ship glided smoothlyover the sparkling waters, the clients were treated to breathtaking views of the rugged shoreline, dottedwith lush pine trees and the occasional charming cottage.LLC program took some clients out to Parry Sound to ride the Cruise ship. The weather was perfect, withclear skies and a gentle breeze that carried the fresh scent of the lake. As the cruise ship glided smoothlyover the sparkling waters, the clients were treated to breathtaking views of the rugged shoreline, dottedwith lush pine trees and the occasional charming cottage.Bernice Celebrated her 45th Birthday once again,and she enjoyed some nice flowers and adelicious cupcake from her officemate LynnPearce. Her family then took her out for dinner,so it was a day of good wishes, and NO dishes!
Our school year is coming to an end here at Niizhwaas AsiniikSkoonweh Kahn – Seven Stones Learning Centre. Feelings ofsadness as well as happiness surface because we are sayinggoodbye to our students for the summer. For some, they will becoming back next fall. Our graduates will be leaving us to moveon to improved things. We wish them all well in their futureendeavours.On Thursday, June 20th, 2024, students from Seven StonesLearning Centre had a graduation ceremony for the threegraduates. Grandmother Mary Morneau gifted beaded eaglefeathers with a case to each graduate. Grandmother Mary hasbeen helping out at Seven Stones, teaching the youth how to sewleather, and much more.The main event was the graduation of our students. We did anofficial presentation of their diplomas and took lots of photos.The staff are super proud of these people. They worked hard andaccomplished their goals.Our school year is coming to an end here at Niizhwaas AsiniikSkoonweh Kahn – Seven Stones Learning Centre. Feelings ofsadness as well as happiness surface because we are sayinggoodbye to our students for the summer. For some, they will becoming back next fall. Our graduates will be leaving us to moveon to improved things. We wish them all well in their futureendeavours.On Thursday, June 20th, 2024, students from Seven StonesLearning Centre had a graduation ceremony for the threegraduates. Grandmother Mary Morneau gifted beaded eaglefeathers with a case to each graduate. Grandmother Mary hasbeen helping out at Seven Stones, teaching the youth how to sewleather, and much more.The main event was the graduation of our students. We did anofficial presentation of their diplomas and took lots of photos.The staff are super proud of these people. They worked hard andaccomplished their goals.15NBIFC NEWSLETTER JULY 2024Congratulations GraduatesCongratulations GraduatesYou did it!You did it!Class of 2024!Class of 2024!
Register with Kim Stephendaw@nbifc.org(705)472-2811 ext. 217North Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre, 980 Cassells St, North Bay P1B 4A8North Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre, 980 Cassells St, North Bay P1B 4A8Indigenous Mental Health & Wellness Program & Life Long Care Program PresentsIndigenous Mental Health & Wellness Program & Life Long Care Program PresentsTuesdays 6:00 - 8:00pmJuly 2, 9, 16, 23, & 30*Please Register! A fewspots are available!*Workshop limited to 10participants at a timeAll skill levels welcome!Start a new beading project or bring your own.Supplies can be provided.CommunityBeadingBeadingCircle
17NBIFC NEWSLETTER JULY 2024Soft Opening for ResourceCentre at the NBIFC The Apatisiwin Program is pleased to announce that they once againhave a resource space available for anyone looking to access a computerand the internet for job searching, submitting forms, workshops, andapplying for positions. New and improved from the old resource area inthe rec room, this space includes a job board available to view, which haslocal agencies and services information as well, new computers anddesks with privacy dividers, as well as a quieter space for folks toconcentrate on what they’re doing. Job search support andresume/cover letter assistance is available by appointment. This Resource Room is available to the public, so be sure to come checkit out! The Grand Opening of the space is going to be a special event sometimein August, so be sure to look for more updates soon. To access the space, email apatisiwin@nbifc.org or call Steve at(705)472-2811 ext. 202
18NBIFC NEWSLETTER JULY 2024Our CWP worker Melissa and YLP worker Mike have been busy hauling our Youth Council around todifferent events in the community to sell ice cold drinks, raising money for their Canada’s Wonderlandtrip. The one Saturday at the Drag Races in Bonfield was a fun adventure, and a successful one! Y O U T H C O U N C I L F U N D R A I S I N G E F F O R T SC O N T I N U E !Y O U T H C O U N C I L F U N D R A I S I N G E F F O R T SC O N T I N U E !Niska (Goose) Flock at NBIFC GymYLP recently organized a WoodCarving workshop led byJames Koosees fromKashechewan First Nation.During the workshop,participants not only learnedabout carving variousmaterials, wood, and tools butalso had the opportunity toexplore handmade tools.James shared stories about hisjourney as a carver, includingthe dos and don'ts of the craft.
(705) 472-2811 Ext. 228(705) 472-2811 Ext. 228https://nbifc.org/employment-opportunities/https://nbifc.org/employment-opportunities/For more information on these postings, go to:For more information on these postings, go to:Please send a cover letter,resume, and 3 references to:Human Resources CoordinatorEmail: hrc@nbifc.orgPlease send a cover letter,resume, and 3 references to:Human Resources CoordinatorEmail: hrc@nbifc.orgWE AREWE AREHIRING!HIRING!Open PositionsOpen Positions Prenatal NutritionProgram WorkerCultural ResourceCoordinatorFASD Family Nutrition WorkerCasual Part Time Relief Workers- Suswin Transitional House(ongoing)Find our job postings on Facebook! NBIFC HumanResources
Ingredients1 cup traditional wild rice8 cups of water1 pint mixed organic blueberries,raspberries, and blackberries1 pint organic strawberries, sliced1 cup pecans or walnuts (optional)1 cup real maple syrup20NBIFC NEWSLETTER JULY 2024WILD RICE & BERRIESRecipe !Directions1. Rinse wild rice. Add to a large pot and fill with the 8cups of water. Bring to a boil.2. Once boiling, lower heat to maintain a simmer.Occasionally, I add berry juice to the water as it boils.This is optional.3. Cook the rice until it starts puffing out. The timedepends on the type of rice you use; it's generallyaround 40 minutes. (See picture on side for reference).The longer you cook the rice, the puffier and softer it willbe. If you prefer softer rice, the final dish will be closer toa pudding than a salad. I like it both ways.4. Once the rice is cooked, strain. Add maple syrup to therice and mix thoroughly. Let cool. Add in your berriesand gently mix together. Sprinkle nuts on top (optional).Chill and serve.
Join us for a Men’s Open TalkingCircleevery Wednesday from2:00pm - 3:00pmFor more information contactKris: kizhaay@nbifc.org (705)472-2811 x 216980 Cassells StreetNorth Bay, ON P1B 4A8Light snacks andrefreshments will be providedN O R T H B A Y I N D I G E N O U S F R I E N D S H I P C E N T R EN O R T H B A Y I N D I G E N O U S F R I E N D S H I P C E N T R EEEYYLLKKEEWWRRGGOOUUPPSSMMEENN‘‘REGISTER HEREREGISTER HERE
FAMILYPROGRAMThe Family Support team would like to take thismoment to express our heartfelt Chi-Miigwetchto all our participants. Your contributions arewhat keep this program running for families,and we're truly grateful. We're committed toincorporating native teachings and knowledgeinto every program, as we believe it's ourresponsibility to keep these traditions alive.The NBIFC Family Support Program has hostedseveral great programs including but notlimited to, parent relief, traditional crafts,shake rattle and stroll, and family drop-ins.Picky Eaters Presentation, Nutrition Bingo,Shaker Making, Lee Park, Tie Blankets (withHealthy Babies Program) and our Teddy BearPicnic. Thank you to everyone who attendedour Mother’s Day Tea, it was a great event. Wealso hosted Father’s Day Bowling; thank you tothe dads who came out. It was a lot of fun.Please keep an eye out in your emails for somefun activities that are planned for the monthsof July and August. We will be sending out thecalendars soon as well as posting the events onour Family Support Facebook Page. Theseprograms are for registered clients, we arecurrently accepting new registrations, so besure to sign your family up. We could notcreate and host these great programs withoutyour support.Yours in community service, Cindy & Kayla.22NBIFC NEWSLETTER JULY 2024
NBIFC Gymnasium980 Cassells St, North Bay, ON P1B 4A8SINGINGDRUMMINGDANCINGEvery TuesdayNORTH BAY INDIGENOUS FRIENDSHIP CENTREFor more info,please contactNodin Sutherlandahws@nbifc.org orMelissa Lafrancecwp@nbifc.orgFor more info,please contactNodin Sutherlandahws@nbifc.org orMelissa Lafrancecwp@nbifc.org6:00 - 8:00 PMSNACKS ANDDRINKS WILLBE PROVIDED.BRING YOURREGALIA TOPRACTICEDANCING ANDDRUMMING!&
Art Workshops with Waaban!These workshops offer a uniqueopportunity to explore and celebratediverse artistic traditions. Participants willhave the chance to engage with skilledartisans, learn traditional techniques, andcreate their own masterpieces. Whetheryou're an experienced artist or a curiousbeginner, there's something for everyone.Woodland, westcoast, andinuit art workshops duringthe summer!please register with Josiahour Waaban Worker!To secure your spot, please register with Josiah,our dedicated Waaban Worker. Josiah ispassionate about fostering creativity andcultural appreciation, and he will be more thanhappy to assist you with any questions orconcerns. Don't miss out on this enrichingexperience—register today and embark on ajourney of artistic discovery!
Moon of the Turning Leaves27NBIFC NEWSLETTER JULY 2024Back in April, some of the NBIFC staff and Boardmembers had the honour of attending Lefebvres 7thAnnual Earth Day Book Talk highlighting local authorWaubgeshig Rice. He discussed his second novelMoon of the Turning Leaves, then ended with areading and book signing. Waub is from WasauksingFirst Nation near Parry Sound and resides inSudbury with his family.Back in April, some of the NBIFC staff and Boardmembers had the honour of attending Lefebvres 7thAnnual Earth Day Book Talk highlighting local authorWaubgeshig Rice. He discussed his second novelMoon of the Turning Leaves, then ended with areading and book signing. Waub is from WasauksingFirst Nation near Parry Sound and resides inSudbury with his family.