by Tom Sasvari

MANITOWANING - The Manitoulin Tourism Association and Nature and Outdoor Tourism in Ontario are recommending to the provincial government that all water testing for small water providers/commercial operators be done by public health units.

Both the Manitoulin Tourism Association (MTA) and Nature and Outdoor Tourism in Ontario (NOTO) had representatives at a Manitoulin Municipal Association (MMA) meeting last week where postion papers on the provincial government's new water regulations were presented. The two tourism organizations were looking for support on their recommendations for improvements and changes to the Ontario Drinking Water Regulations. The MMA ultimately did extend its support to the MTA and NOTO.

"These water regulations were specifically put in place because two people in Walkerton went  off the edge and the rest of us have been caught in the web," stated Richard Stevens, chair of the Manitoulin Municipal Association (MMA). "I think we should be supporting our local businesses. There has been no cases of someone getting sick from drinking water supplied by any of our commercial business operators on the Island. We should support measures that continue to provide good water, at affordable costs."

Bill Ferguson, president of the MTA, and Doug Reynolds, executive director of NOTO made presentations during the MMA meeting on concerns faced by the tourism industry as a whole.

"We are trying to get support for modifications to the Water Treatment Act for small water providers. These regulations affect almost all our tourist resorts, bed and breakfast businesses, and other operators," stated Mr. Ferguson.

He pointed out the Act is under review by the provincial government. If the current requirements are retained, it could cost operators as much as $25,000 for installation of systems to meet those requirements. Adding to the costs are ongoing engineers reports.

Mr. Reynolds said in presentations to the province, including the Minister of Environment  (MOE), "We explained we have kind of inherited the problem. Not only will the folks who are involved in the tourism industry be affected, but so will municipalities who run community halls and buildings. I can say from my meetings with government senior policy people they understand we have a problem with the Act."

"The challenge is to lobby the government on how to fix the problems," said Mr. Reynolds. "We need to provide specific recommendations to address the concerns of the government and put in place something we can live with , while continuing to operate our businesses. There are a couple of things we can do to enhance water safety. One of the proposals in the package we have sent to the ministry included a letter, "If It Ain't Broke Don't Fix It." A good start towards such a system is to move jurisdiction back to the Ministry of Health, instead of the MOE. "

Mr. Reynolds pointed out communities already have a network of water testing labs. Those labs are not going to go away, since they are still needed to test water from private residences.

"They are simply not allowed to test our water under the new regulations, requiring us to use expensive, distant and often unavailable private testing labs instead. Our health units also have inspectors who visit many of our operations periodically to inspect our food facilities, and can (and did) look at water systems and take their own samples. Let's let the Ministry of Health regulate health issues like drinking water. Maybe then, MOE can get back to dealing with environmental issues."

"The most prominent solution is to put this testing back where it belongs in the hands of the Ministry of Health, and specifically our health units, who do a good job of inspecting our water, to local public health labs," continued Mr. Reynolds. "Furthermore, public health units can do on site checks on a periodical basis."

Mr. Reynolds further pointed out the extension of the July 2004 deadline for larger systems is appreciated by the tourism industry, but NOTO is urging that this be immediately lengthened and a similar extension be granted to the systems slated for compliance in July 2005.

"One of the simple ways to make the system workable is as we suggested, whatever system the minister puts in place, to write a set of standards and approvals certifiable, and designate local inspectors to do the work. The regulations will make for an onerous approval process on the businesses, and the North doesn't have the infrastructure to pay these costs. What needs to be done is the creation of a set of minimum standards and inspections through health units."

"We don't mind paying for these services but we need these testing in labs done in our communities, not sent 500 miles away. We need to have this put back in the hands of our public health labs," said Mr. Reynolds. "Hopefully, your municipalities will do what many others are doing and contact the environment minister on these concerns."

"Several municipal organizations across Ontario have taken the same position. The answer the government gives for the regulations is that each health unit makes its own rules, and this is why the Walkerton incident happened," said Austin Hunt, reeve of Billings township.

Some of the areas that will be faced with the same problems with costs and testing, along with tourist and municipal facilities, "is churches, which will have a huge problem with the new regulations. Tourism is only one component. The regulations are very restrictive. The regulations are making so many non-compliant it is virtually impossible to operate businesses."

In his presentation to the MOE, Mr. Reynolds said the tourism industry had typically submitted samples twice per operating season to a local health unit laboratory at a fee to the order of $5 per sample. A seasonal business that operates for 26 weeks per year would now require as many as 26 samples at a cost of $20-$30 per sample, increasing their annual cost to about $780.

As well, transportation is an even more significant concern. "The limited number of private labs, the need to transport samples within 24 hours and the lack of transportation facilities in many areas will make compliance impossible. In other cases, such as a remote, fly-in camp, a special flight for each sample may be required. Transportation could easily cost several hundred dollars per sample," said Mr. Reynolds.

In relation to the costs of water samples being taken at $20-$30 per sample, Mr. Ferguson noted, "Even  with the samples being taken we still could be sitting with bad water for a week after the tests have been done and are analyzed, so this isn't an improvement. And none of our operators can spend $25,000 on a water system."

"My request on behalf of the MTA is to send a letter of support for our submission to the minister," said Mr. Ferguson. He presented the position and four recommendations of the MTA. One recommendation is that "all water be served by our members should be chlorinated. Secondly, water should be tested daily by the owner/operator with results logged for public records. This allows the operator to do the daily tests. Monthly testing should be done by the health unit, and additional funds should be made available to them to cover the costs. As well, standard contact times should be observed and the level of free chlorine should be maintained at not less than 1.5 ppm in the water."

"No case of viral or bacterial infection from people drinking water supplied by any of the commercial properties has even been reported on Manitoulin Island," said Mr. Ferguson.

Mr. Hunt pointed out public meetings on the entire issue will be held this fall, as indicated by the government officials.

"We want to make sure we have a lot of documentation to help in our case for action and changes to be made in the Act," said Mr. Ferguson.

"I think the intent of the ministry is to revisit what has been set down. I would be in favour of the recommendations you have made, and as for the specific stipulations I don't know if they are the answer, but certainly we need to get the province to revisit the regulations," said Ruby Croft.

She pointed out some businesses and community buildings in some areas may be lost with the new regulations. "Gordon Township lost a community hall, and I'm hearing the new water regulations were one of the reasons for this."

"I know the bed and breakfast operators are concerned the regulations may become too onerous on them to continue to operate," said Mr. Ferguson.

Mr. Reynolds said, "An informal survey was taken of the bed and breakfast industry in the province and 30 percent of the business operators intend to close with the new regulations in place. This is significant."

"It makes sense to support the recommendations being made," said Les Fields, reeve of Assiginack.

The MMA passed two motions, supporting the NOTO and MTA positions, to have the province revisit the regulations with considerations to the cost and risk benefits, and for the ministry to authorize the water sampling for non-municipal systems back to the Ministry of Health, rather than the Ministry of Environment. The MTA letter will be included in the submission to the ministry and supporting the position, from the MMA.

by Neil Zacharjewicz

LITTLE CURRENT - With the crack of the last firework, Manitoulin's largest homecoming festival drew to a close last weekend, leaving many with fond memories of the 37th Annual Little Current Lions Club's Haweater Weekend.

"It went great. The numbers were down some, but overall, we felt we had a very prosperous weekend," stated Bruce Burnett, co-chair of the Haweater Weekend Committee.

The weekend kicked off with the Miss Manitoulin Pageant on Thursday evening, which proved to be a major success, he said. He pointed out the NEMI Recreation Centre was packed.

"The pageant was unbelievable," Mr. Burnett stated. "It was great to see that there were 12 contestants considering this was the first time the pageant has been run since 1995."

He said the softball tournament was "unreal" this year, with 16 teams taking part.

"Low Island was well attended (in general)," he said, noting that he was blown away by the number of teams that signed up to participate in the three-on-three volleyball tournament. Another popular event was the children's activities put on by the Children's Aid Society at Low Island park, Mr. Burnett said.

"They must have had at least 100 kids take part," he stated.

The Haweater 5K Classic Run proved to be quite popular, with over 50 entrants, Mr. Burnett indicated. He said that, after talking with organizers Kristin Farquhar and Greg Sutherland, they were really happy with how things went. This was also true of the Nutrition Mission, where organizer Tammy Albers indicated to Mr. Burnett she was pleased with the turn out. He said there was a lot of work by all of the community volunteers at this year's Haweater.

"The waterslide was attended by hundreds of kids," said Mr. Burnett.

This year's event also boasted one of the most impressive fireworks displays to date, the handiwork of former Island resident Ken Leavoy.

"He did a bang-up job last year, and he told us he was going to do an even better job this year. He had some new shells he wanted to try this year," Mr. Burnett said. "He outdid himself."

He noted that, in the past, the flaming waterfall has been saved for the finale, but this year Mr. Leavoy surprised many when he set it off mid-way through the display. His efforts were made all the easier by the clear skies on Sunday evening.

Despite the fact that storm clouds loomed on many an occasion this weekend, the sun seemed to break out frequently and very little rain ever fell, a big change from the torrential downpour that followed last year's event. Mr. Burnett said that, after last year, the Lions figured any good weather that they got had to be better.

by Michael Erskine

WIKWEMIKONG---The swirling whirling antics of Woodpecker (Greg Odjig) set the pace in 'Your Dream is Mine,' the second summer theatre production offering from De-ba-jeh-mu-jig Theatre Group, and an event that should definitely be added to everyone's summer itinerary.

This three-person play sprang from the creative minds of sisters Shirley and Greta Cheechoo, developing out of an inspiration Greta had in 1994, when she decided to write plays like her famous sister Shirley (therein lies the title, 'Your Dream Was Mine').

The main storyline follows the relationship between Dawn (Tina Louise Bomberry) and Susan (Gloria May Eshkibok) two sisters travelling to a wedding in Northern Ontario, and their odd encounter with an omen, Woodpecker (Gregory Dominic Odjig) who takes them on a journey of discovery and reminiscence.

The script was workshopped extensively before coming to the stage, and the result is a highly professional, smooth flowing and realistic dialogue containing an earthy, yet witty humour that kept the audience in stitches.

Directed by Kate Lushington, the action and dialogue go together with the smooth, professional style that would be expected of seasoned members of the Canadian Actors Equity Association. Ms. Lushington has directed Ms. Cheechoo's works before, having sat in the director's chair for the 1994 production of 'Tangled Sheets.' She has garnered a long line of directing credits to her name since then, and most recently her first short film, 'Subway Transfer,' won the Mouche d'Or at the August 4th 'On the Fly Festival.'

Ms. Eshkibok, who along with Ms. Cheechoo is a founding member of the company, returns to the Debaj stage bringing her powerful presence and voice to the challenging role of Dawn, the elder sister in the play. Ms. Eshkibok's impressive line of stage credits still does not do justice to her immense talent, and it was a distinct pleasure to see her back on the Debaj stage once again. Her capture of the personality and struggle of a Native woman recently elevated to the role of family matriarch is sublime.

Ms. Bomberry brings her own considerable talents to the party as Susan, the younger sister, and soon-bride-to-be. Ms. Bomberry is a familiar face, having played 'Rosie,' in a recurring role on the hit series 'North of 60.' The lilting Cree-cadence in her voice as she flawlessly delivers her lines, works incredibly well in bringing an authenticity to the role of the sometimes wayward younger sibling who desperately longs for the status and respect of an established married mother.

By far the most energetic role in the production falls to stage veteran Gregory Dominic Odjig, whose magical woodpecker would have completely stolen the show beside lesser talents. The poise, acrobatics and sleight-of-hand moves that Mr. Odjig brings to 'Your Dream was Mine' are breathtaking. Mr. Odjig is returning to Debaj after a five-year walk-about that took him to the august stages of the Stratford Festival during their 50th Anniversary production, 'Bereav'd of Light. He dedicated his performance to the late Wikwemikong athlete and friend Logan Eshkawkogan, and the energy and professional perfection he brought to the role of Woodpecker was truly a fine tribute.

Music for the production fit the tone of the play perfectly, and included both well-known tunes and original works by the multi-talented recording and visual artist Leland Bell.

Bill Shawanda outdid himself once again with simple, yet incredibly well-executed and chosen costume and makeup designs. His work is vital to the establishment of an effective suspension of belief in a stage production, and it does its job to perfection.

'Your Dream was Mine' will be running at the Holy Cross Mission Ruins in Wikwemikong through to August 8. Although reservations are not required for the remaining 8 pm shows in the run, it would be best to get out there a little early to ensure a good seat. You won't want to miss this one, but be warned, coarse language and adult situations may not be appropriate for all age groups.

by Michael Erskine

WIKWEMIKONG---Dark clouds parted and the sun came out to shine over 300 dancers and eight drums as they prepared for the Grand Entry at the grandmother of all Pow Wows in Wikwemikong.

Although the official title of the event is the Wikwemikong Annual Cultural Festival, the August long weekend event is acknowledged as the place where the traditional celebration of Anishinaabek culture and welcome began its resurgence.

For over 45 years, dancers, singers and venders of First Nations crafts and food have gathered at Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve to honour that tradition, and this year saw a great resurgence as competing events in Wisconsin and Minnesota moved to different weekends this summer.

With veteran masters of ceremony Vince Beyl, of Minnesota and local favourite Alex Fox at the microphone, the festivities began in a multicoloured cavalcade of colours and song.

Head dancers, two-time world champion hoop dancer Lisa Odjig and Frankie Jackson, both of Wikwemikong, brought the procession in behind the veterans carrying the Eagle Staffs, memorial banners and national flags under which veterans served.

Arena director Deke Peltier stood ready to keep order in the circle as some of the finest First Nation dancers in the world came together to compete, and share their dance with one and all.

Whitefish River Elder and Grandmother Violet McGregor spoke an invocation in the language of the Three Fires, and Wikwemikong Chief Walter Manitowabi welcomed everyone into the community.

"Anii, Boo Zhoo," greeted Chief Manitowabi, as he spoke in his opening remarks of the pride his community has in hosting this event. Chief Manitowabi is himself the son of Josephine Manitowabi, one of the original founders of the event. He acknowledged the many months of hard work and dedication by an army of volunteers who come together, under the guidance of the Wikwemikong Heritage Organization, to make this event a reality.

"This Pow Wow is big business for our community," said Chief Manitowabi, "stop by and visit our local businesses who can supply your every need."

As the staffs and flags were posted, dozens of late registrants were lined up in front of WHO Committee member Sandra Peltier and WHO Chair Annette Peltier, as they entered each registrant's number and category into the computer.

In the audience were members of dozens of First Nations, community members and thousands of tourists and other visitors, who had come to honour the memory of the fallen, and to partake in the celebration of First Nation heritage.

One member of the audience, Charles Versteeg comes as often as he can, in memory of the First Nation veterans who, as members of the Canadian Forces, fought to free his country, the Netherlands, from the yoke of Nazi oppression.

Mr. Versteeg, who was attending with his wife Rita, is a veteran himself, having fought as a commander in the Dutch Underground.

Host drum Battle River, of Red Lake Minnesota led Red Wind, of Sagkeeng, Manitoba, Red Stone, of Batchawana, Cumberland, of Wisconsin, Spirit Wind of Thunder Bay, Eagle Flight, of London, Bear Creek of Batchawana and Snake Island, from Sarnia, in providing a steady stream of song and drum for the dancers.

Bear Creek, which hails from the neighbourhood of Sault Ste. Marie, has surpassed the status of up and coming drum group to take a premiere position in the field of Aboriginal singers. With two Cds, and a busy schedule that takes them all across Turtle Island, these young men have been a powerful force on the scene since their debut in 1998.

This Pow Wow was particularly special this year as they were also hosting the World Men's Fancy Dance Championships.

Tiny tot exhibitions highlighted the debt owed by the community to the Elders who nurtured the dance and regalia of the Anishinaabek heritage, even through the darkest days of its suppression.

"We owe a great deal of respect for our Elders," said MC Fox. "They have carried the dance down to us through the years so that we could be here today."

There were plenty of intertribal dances for everyone to partake, including tourists and other visitors, who were encouraged to come out and help celebrate the dance.

A Women's Fancy Shawl Special was sponsored by Head Dancer, Lisa Odjig and each category of dance, from the traditional Pow Wow openers, the Grass Dancers, to the stately dance of the Women's Traditional, the Healing sound of the Jingle Dancers and the hunting dance of the keeper's of the stories, the Men's Traditional Dancers.

Karen Kalpin, of Newmarket, Ontario, has been coming to the Wiky Pow Wow for seven years, and her daughter Sarah and friend Courtney have joined her this year,

"My mom first told me about the camp at Timberlane Lodge," said Ms. Kalpin. "We came along one year and we have kept coming back."

She describes Newmarket as "strictly white bread," and said that she wants her daughter to be exposed to the multi-cultural mosaic that is the heart of Canada.

For the past few years Ms. Kalpin has another motive for her yearly pilgrimage to Wikwemikong. She tilts her head and places her hand behind her ear, displaying one of Bruno Peltier's handmade earrings. Mr. Peltier is one of Wikwemikong's fine Native artisans who sets up a vendor's booth each year.

"She stops in every year," said Mr. Peltier. "She is usually one of my first customers."

Other vendors come from as close as Sheguiandah First Nation, or as far away as Puno, Peru, such as Carlos Manuel. Mr. Manuel's handmade flutes can be heard playing hauntingly across the vendor's market.

Author Basil Johnston has many of his 20 books on display, 15 written in English, five in the language of the Anishinaabek. Mr. Johnston was at the first Pow Wow over 40 years ago, where he met Don (Scotty) Fisher and his wife Mary Lou.

From dancers, to musicians, to vendors and the thousands of visitors walking the grounds, there are a thousand fascinating facets to the Wikwemikong Cultural Festival, each shining like a well-polished diamond, thanks to the hard work of the community's willing volunteers.