Premier Alison Redford’s decision to fold Aboriginal Relations with two high-profile portfolios into a single government department under a rookie minister has raised concerns with First Nations.

“It’s kind of a slap in the face. It was that way at one point and then they separated our people into a ministry of our own and now we’re back to where we used to be,” said Richard Kappo, Grand Chief for Treaty 8.

Kappo blamed the move on both cost-saving measures and the lack of importance the Redford-led government has placed on Aboriginal issues.

A comment meant to address the diversity of students attending Edmonton public schools has raised red flags with the Aboriginal Commission on Human Rights and Justice.

“We were upset and concerned about the mentioning of Aboriginal students for the reason for the lower mark for Edmonton Public,” said Muriel Stanley Venne, chair of the Aboriginal commission.

Michael Hudkins was one of 12 Aboriginal youth to be recognized for his accomplishments in a special ceremony held late September.

It may not be a surprise for Cpl. Mel Calahasen to have received his 25 year medal with the RCMP, but it is an accomplishment.

“My initial response was, ‘I did it,’” said Calahasen. “Unfortunately a lot of members that are First Nations in the RCMP don’t reach their 25 years.”

There are many reasons why Aboriginal members find it hard to stick out the quarter century milestone, he said, ranging from family commitments to personal issues to work concerns.

A family from the Blood First Nation is making creative waves in the jewelry community.

The Iron Shirts, mother Bessie, her daughters Jessie and Doris, and Jessie’s son Tico, are making a name for themselves through their family business.

Building relationships is what Aboriginal culture is about and that is why it is important that the federal government continue to fund the Urban Aboriginal Strategy initiative.

“We’re in the final stages of developing a community strategic plan,” said Karen McCarthy, executive director with Wicihitowin Circle.

Artist Roland Rollinmud is nearing completion of his 90-inch by 130-inch oil-based mural at the Cave and Basic Historical Site in Banff.

The Stony Nakoda First Nation man was commissioned to do the work in March 2010 to help mark the 100th anniversary of Parks Canada. The Cave and Basin, along with 16 miles around Sulphur Mountain, were the first pieces of land set aside by Parks Canada to be enjoyed by all Canadians.

 The mural reflects the history of the discovery of the mineral springs.

Ryan Bilinsky and Kelly Risley were two of 113 recipients to receive education funding from the 2011 Belcourt Brosseau Métis Awards.

In October, Nicholas Howells’ piece, Crowfoot, was performed at the Canadian Embassy in Tokyo. Milton Schlosser, Howells’ former instructor, gave the solo performance comprised of piano, drums and speaking voice.

“Milton had approached me just over a year ago, and he wanted me to write a piece . . . that explored my Métis background. He had come across the quote from Chief Crowfoot. As soon as (I finished) reading it, I thought yes, I have to use this. I find it very reflective of my own life,” said Howells.

Since changing its mission four years ago, officials with Calgary’s Awo Taan Healing Lodge have discovered its services are required as much as ever.

The facility, which opened in 1993, used to serve as a shelter for Native women. But in 2007 it became a healing lodge providing services and programs for all cultures.

Though it is open to all, Josie Nepinak, who is Awo Taan’s executive director, said about 90 per cent of those who do seek services from the lodge are Aboriginal.
“Family violence is a very, very serious issue for Aboriginal communities,” Nepinak said.