KWAASKAAYAU PIPUN Newsletter Winter 2013-2014

KWAASKAAYAU!
PIPUN 2014
Regional Tourism Partnership Agreement
It is with a great sense of accomplishment that we inform you of the first regional partnership agreement
between Eeyou Istchee Tourism, Tourisme Quebec, Cree Regional Authority and Societe de developpement de la
Baie-James (SDBJ) where the amount of $1,425,000 will be invested in tourism development in Eeyou Istchee.
This regional partnership agreement will benefit the Cree Nation immensely in the areas of sustainable tourism
product development while keeping Cree fundamental values strong and protected.
Eeyou Istchee and the Eeyouch/Eenouch have the necessary resources to develop products in the areas of
cultural tourism, adventure tourism and ecotourism.
On August 19, 2013, the community of Ouje-Bougoumou (where COTA/EIT offices are located) welcomed the
Minister of Tourism, Pascal Berube, as well as other Cree and non-Cree representatives for the official signing
ceremony, which was held at the beautiful Aanischaakamikw (Cree Cultural Institute).
Mark your calendars! Tickets on sale soon…
Eeyou-Istchee Baie-James
Grand Prix du Tourisme - Gala & Awards Evening
Lebel-sur-Quevillon
Thursday, March 27, 2014
KWAASKAAYAU! NEWSLETTER - PIPUN 2014
MEMBERSHIP
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To renew your COTA membership
To refer someone or a business to become a member of COTA/EIT
To obtain a password to access the “Member’s Only” section of the website and you would like to benefit from
the tools designed to help you grow your business
Please contact our Coordinator, Communications and Membership Services – John Boudrias by email
[email protected] or by phone at 418.745.2220 ext.23 or by fax at 418.745.2240
Benefits of Being an Active Member of COTA/EIT
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Presence on COTA/EIT’s tourism web site (www.creetourism.ca) which includes a full page profile of your
business and a link to your own business website;
Access to COTA/EIT’s members-only section of our web site, which houses the Tourism Development
Business Resources Centre (TDRC) offering important and up-to-date information about training opportunities,
funding, product development , business development and more;
Invitations to participate in special activities and events, for example COTA/EIT’s Annual General Meeting;
Training workshops to help further your business skills and train your staff;
Networking opportunities to share views and perspectives with other tourism professionals;
Access to professionally produced photographs to use in your own marketing materials;
Listing in the James Bay/Eeyou Istchee Tourism Guide;
Eligible to have your business included on Provincial Blue Signs. These signs are installed along highways or
main roads and will help direct visitors to your tourism business;
Access to Cree GeoPortal (www.creegeoportal.ca) an online map database that supports tourism planning
and development at the regional and community level;
Special discount rates on co-op advertising campaigns organized by COTA/EIT to introduce you to new
audiences and attract new clients;
Members' newsletter and periodic email updates to keep our members current on the latest tourism
developments in Eeyou Istchee, across Canada and around the world.
Active Members Include:
Any Cree individual or any partnership or organization controlled by a majority of Cree beneficiaries engaged in
outfitting or tourism activities with traditional territory of Eeyou Istchee is eligible for active membership. Partnerships
and organizations need to appoint an individual to represent them and notify COTA/EIT of identity of their
representative. Active members are eligible to vote at member meetings.
Fees for Active Members:
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Small Business (1 – 5 employees):
$ 150.00
Medium Business (6 – 39 employees):
$ 350.00
Large Business (40 employees and above):
$ 550.00
Government (band councils, regional organizations): $ 121.00 + population X $0.54
KWAASKAAYAU! NEWSLETTER - PIPUN 2014
COTA/EIT Annual General Meeting 2013 -Mistissini
On November 5, 2013, we held our annual general meeting at the impressive Mistissini Lodge.
Community delegations, members, and staff/board gathered for a full day of discussions surrounding
the organization, highlighted by a review of the annual report.
The participants also selected the Cree Nation of Eastmain to host the next annual general meeting in
the summer of 2014.
TOURISM SYMPOSIUM 2014
In the two days following the annual general meeting, staying in the
community of Mistissini, however moving over to their excellent multidisciplinary Neoskweskau Complex, Eeyou Istchee Tourism, in
partnership with Tourisme Baie-James, organized and presented the
2014 Symposium, under the theme – Northern Tourism.
Just over one hundred participants gathered to network, to exchange
ideas, and to listen to a variety of guest speakers, who were involved
with the tourism industry in some way. Two stand-outs were definitely
-Cyril Chauquet, a world-class sports-fisherman, and host of his own
television productions, and -Lennart Pitja, a representative of the Sami
aboriginal Nation of northern Sweden, whose insight and story-telling
methods captivated the crowd.
SNOWMOBILE GUIDE TRAINING
(Mistissini) On January 26-27-28 of this year, COTA was part of organizing a Snowmobile Guide Training Course. A
total of six people completed the course, including COTA Board Director and COTA Member – Anna Bosum, who was
the only female participant. Another training will be held in March. For more information, please contact
Dorothy Stewart at [email protected] or by contacting the COTA office.
Congratulations to those who completed this training!
KWAASKAAYAU! NEWSLETTER - PIPUN 2014
CAPE HOPE ISLAND VIDEO LAUNCH
In the summer of 2012, as part of our Coastal Route Project development (maximizing the tourism potential for the
coastal area of Eyou Istchee), COTA organized a reconnaissance trip to the Twin and Cape Hope Islands and
surrounding area. The trip clearly established the incredible beauty, ecological diversity and cultural vitality of the
region. Cape Hope Islands could be of great interest for visitors particularly in association with other community
gathering areas such as the mouth of Old Factory River where the former trading post was located.
Of particular interest is the unique history of Cape Hope Islands. In the early 1930s Inuit from the north moved into
the region likely drawn by the trading post at Old Factory. The area is rich in marine life, including beluga whales,
making it possible for Inuit to continue their typical hunting practices. The historic story is largely associated with the
name of one man, George Weetaltuk. The Cape Hope Island community consisted, for the most part, of Weetaltuk's
descendants and they enjoyed harmonious relations with adjacent James Bay Cree communities.
Nunaaluk: A forgotten story is a short documentary video about the only two Inuit living who actually resided on the
islands. One is George Kudlu now in Wemindji and another is Minnie Aodla Freeman, living in Edmonton, Alberta.
George’s wife Louisa was part of the original Weetaltuk family and it would seem that her relatives still possess
extensive oral histories. There is an urgency attached to this work. Minnie is elderly and George is in his 60s and is
very keen in participating in the development of eco and cultural tourism associated with the island and the region.
Cultural tourism is aimed at emphasizing the special character of local people and places and to ensure that tourism
supports and enhances the unique features of historic and natural sites. The Cape Hope Islands are one of those
special places.
The official launch of this short documentary took place in December at the McCord Museum in Montreal. Plans
are underway to present the video at other locations in Eeyou Istchee in the coming months.
KWAASKAAYAU! NEWSLETTER - PIPUN 2014
EEYOU ISTCHEE COFFEE TABLE BOOK AND OTHER PROMOTIONAL ITEMS
We remind you that our Eeyou Istchee Land of the Cree
coffee table books are on sale and make a wonderful
addition to any home and gifts. To purchase, please
contact Timothy Wapachee (contact information on last
page of this newsletter).
We also have other promotional items for sale, such as polo
sweaters, baseball caps, etc… and new items will be on
sale soon that will include the new brand image.
NEW STAFF COTA/EIT
In the recent months, YOUR Cree Outfitting & Tourism Association / Eeyou Istchee Tourism hired four new staff members to
assist with our goal of offering world-class sustainable tourism destinations throughout Eeyou Istchee.
We are happy to offer this brief profile of our new staff…
JULIE SIMARD (Ouje-Bougoumou) – Assistant to the Executive-Director
Although not new to COTA/EIT, having been with the organization on a contractual basis, Julie has recently officially taken
on the role of Assistant to the Executive-Director. Originally from Quebec City, she now calls Ouje-Bougoumou her home
and has thus taken on many of the local cultural practices in her recreation time, such as fishing, boating and enjoying other
outdoor activities. She has studied in Tourism at the collegiate level.
DOROTHY STEWART (Wemindji) – Cree Product Development Officer
She speaks her Cree language fluently as well English and French. She has a B.A. History, B.A. Education –
Primary/Junior from York University, Toronto, Ontario. She received a Role Model Incentive Award from the Cree School
Board and completed the Aboriginal Training for Museum Practices at the Museum of Civilization. She developed and
taught a Cree Language Studies course, and was liaison for the Protected Project with Wemindji for McGill University. She
worked in television as a Writer/Broadcaster for a weekly CBC Television Program and as a CBC Radio Freelance/Reporter
for the Toronto International Aboriginal Festival. She is a translator and published author and former Economic Development
Officer for the Cree Nation of Wemindji and a Community Health Representative for the Cree Board of Health and Social
Services of James Bay. Over 17 years of experience in various capacities in the federal government. Dorothy currently
lives a healthy active life style in fitness, running, cooking and reading.
JOHN BOUDRIAS (Long Point First Nation) – Coordinator, Communications & Membership Services
With over 25 years of work experience within the Cree Nation, in various contractual capacities, John is very enthusiastic
about this new endeavour and looks forward to applying his experience, education and ambition to working for the Cree
Nation in this capacity. John has studied Communications, Business Administration, and Native Studies along with other
specialized courses. He remains open and very approachable. He continues to participate at various events organized by
other organizations, in and outside Eeyou Istchee as an entertainer/emcee, a talent for which he is very appreciative.
STEPHANE GUNNER (Mistissini) – Special Projects Officer (contractual)
Stephane is fluent in Cree and English. He recently graduated and received his diploma in Tourism & Travel from Algonquin
College. Stephane practices and is active in a healthy lifestyle, as he participates in marathons, triathlons and regional
fitness challenges. He also enjoys swimming and cross-country skiing.
KWAASKAAYAU! NEWSLETTER - PIPUN 2014
Eeyou Istchee Baie-James brand image
Cree Outfitting and Tourism Association, Eeyou Istchee Tourism, and Tourisme Baie-James were
pleased to announce the official launch of the new Eeyou Istchee Baie-James brand image, including a
new logo, signature line, shared web portal, and promotional video.
In 2012, the three organizations adopted a joint tourism-development and marketing plan, which
included the creation of a new brand image for the destination as a priority objective. A brand image is
a crucial differentiating asset as it helps to shape people’s perceptions, thoughts, and feelings about the
destination. We will use the new brand image to orchestrate messages and experiences to showcase
the destination as distinctive, evocative, and memorable.
The region’s great challenge was to find a unique and powerful brand image to sell the destination and
the tourism experience it offers. In that spirit, the three organizations decided to unite their vision and
align their distinctive identities in order to position the region as an attractive destination for tourism
customers.
• The logo: the new visual signature represented by the Canada Goose evokes a spirit of opening out to
the world, migration, freedom, and mutual aid. As a symbol of travel and the cycle of seasons, the
Canada Goose is a unique and distinctive icon for the Eeyou Istchee Baie-James region. The circle,
which is ever-present in Native culture and represents continuity, fairness, and Cree writing, is the
graphic component that completes the logo.
• The signature line: to reinforce their brand image, the three organizations have also adopted a new
signature line: “Escape Like Never Before” This is a promise made to visitors in the region. This is a
true opportunity for them to let go and enjoy a stimulating travel experience like never before.
• New portal: the main objective of the new portal is to allow visitors to access a site that is shared by
all three organizations. Using the portal, visitors can access each association’s web site or view a
promotional video about the Eeyou Istchee Baie-James region. You can visit the portal at
www.escapelikeneverbefore.com.
• Promotional video: finally, in order to promote the destination and publicize the new brand image, a
promotional video about the region was produced. This dynamic and representative video can be used
to showcase the destination to tourism customers.
United in our efforts to achieve a common goal – to make Eeyou Istchee Baie-James a world-class
tourism destination – we hope that all organizations and associations in the region will adopt the new
brand image and use it in their communications whenever they address external clients. If everyone
takes ownership of the brand image and uses it proudly, the region will certainly benefit since it
promotes us as a unique destination.
KWAASKAAYAU! NEWSLETTER - PIPUN 2014
TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES
We will try to keep you informed of all related training opportunities, however your input, as always is welcome, should
you know of other opportunities happening in or outside our region…
The Universite du Quebec en Abitibi-Temiscamingue (UQAT) is offering a micro-program in tourism. For m
ore information visit http://www.uqat.ca/en/services/firstpeoples/
Many short training sessions are offered in French by Le Centre d’Entrepreuneurship Nordique. For more information
visit http://www.entrepreneurshipnordique.ca/
Cegep de Chicoutimi offers a course in tourism at its Chibougamau campus. For more information visit
http://www.cegep-chicoutimi.qc.ca/
UPCOMING EVENTS
March 27, 2014 – GRAND PRIX DU TOURISME REGIONAL AWARDS GALA. LEBEL-SUR-QUEVILLON.
Information regarding this event will be sent out soon. This year’s candidates from Eeyou Istchee are from
communities of Wemindji, Waswanipi, Ouje-Bougoumou and Mistissini, however they represent our entire region and
we look forward to including attendance from all communities and interested representatives from different entities and
organizations. It is an evening that includes dinner, entertainment and an excellent opportunity for networking. Tickets
on sale soon!
April 15-16, 2014 – Aboriginal International Tourism Conference, Whistler, BC. This conference is being
organized by Aboriginal Tourism British Columbia (ATBC). For more information on this event, visit:
http://www.aboriginalbc.com/corporate/events/2014-international-aboriginal-tourism-conference
June, 2014 – Next COTA/EIT Board Meeting (details TBA)
COTA/EIT IN THE COMMUNITY!
As a regional organization, COTA/EIT receives many invitations to participate in events and activities, fundraising
efforts, and numerous sponsorship requests. As you know, it is literally impossible to respond favourably to all
requests, however, we remain committed to participating when and where we can and generously make donations
when possible, and whenever requests are in line with our mission and values, and meet visibility objectives.
We also value the importance of being visible, and maintain a presence in the community, as we are extremely proud
to be working within Eeyou Istchee and we want to remain in direct contact with the Eeyouch/Eenouch…
For instance, we held community visits and made presentations to local councils AND community assemblies in:
Wemindji, Chisasibi, Eastmain, Nemaska, Mistissini, Washaw Sibi, and Whapmagoostui. We have also been to the
communities of Waswanipi,Waskaganish and of course Ouje-Bougoumou, our head office location.
We have explored the islands off the James Bay coast, and have held countless meetings with representatives of
countless organizations from areas to the south all in an effort to reach our goal for sustainable world-class tourism in
Eeyou Istchee!
COTA participated in many of the fundraising golf tournaments organized by communities and entities alike, and other
events, and we look forward to continuing our efforts in being a part of the community, YOURS AND OURS!
KWAASKAAYAU! NEWSLETTER - PIPUN 2014
Board of Directors
COTA Executive
Julie-Ann Cooper, President, Waswanipi
Raymond Blackned, Vice-President, Waskaganish
Titus Shecapio, Mistissini
Board Members
Joseph Fireman, Chisasibi
Anna Bosum, Ouje-Bougoumou
Staff
Robin McGinley, Executive Director -Ext 22
Karen St-Cyr, Treasurer -Ext 21
Anne Nguyen, Marketing Officer -418.748.8140
Angel Mianscum, Digital Animator -Ext 24
Timothy Wapachee, Admin Assistant/Bookkeeper -Ext 29
Julie Simard, Assistant to the Executive Director -Ext 25
Stephane Gunner, Special Projects Officer –Ext 26
Dorothy Stewart, Cree Product Officer –Ext 27
John Boudrias, Communications & Membership –Ext 23
Joanik Linteau, Coordinator, Network Host 418.748.8140
CONTACT US
Roy Mamianskum, Whapmagoostui
Redfern Mark-Stewart, Eastmain
Anderson Jolly, Nemaska
EEYOU ISTCHEE TOURISM
Raymond Blackned, President, Waskaganish
Titus Shecapio, Vice-President, Mistissini
Dianne Reid, CRA Representative
COTA is always glad to hear from you. If you have any
questions or comments please do not hesitate to contact
us at:
Cree Outfitting and Tourism Association (COTA)
Eeyou Istchee Tourism (EIT)
203 Opemiska Meskino
P.O Box 1167
Ouje-Bougoumou, Québec G0W 3C0
[email protected]
T: 418.745.2220 F: 418.745.2240
Photobank
The Photobank is now available to the public; the link can be found on our website www.creetourism.ca. Contact us to
access many photos for your marketing needs
2014 Tourism Guide for James Bay & Eeyou Istchee
The planning of the Eeyou Istchee Baie-James Tourism Guide 2014 is over, the new guide will be coming out in the
coming months. Be sure to renew your membership so that you can benefit from being listed in future guides. Members
are also offered discounted rates for advertising. Copies are available from our office and boxes will be shipped to each
community. Please let us know if you require additional copies.
Val D’Or parking permit
Next time you visit Val D’Or be sure to stop by the tourism information center across the road from the Forestel Hotel to
pick up your free parking permit. You will be asked for your license plate number and point of origin and then you will be
able to park for free on the public meters downtown.
Cree Geoportal
The Cree Geoportal is up and running. We invite everyone to visit the link on our website www.creetourism.ca to check it
out. If you have any comments or suggestions please fill out the on-line survey available on the site.
KWAASKAAYAU! NEWSLETTER - PIPUN 2014

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