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First Nations nursing student at U of A has a dream for the future – APTN News

Jul 09, 2025

A nursing student from Behchokǫ̀ First Nation in Treaty 11 territory is forging a path she hopes other Indigenous youth can follow.

Makayla Mantla, 31, was personally selected by the president of the Canadian Federation of Nurses Unions (CFNU) to sit on its Indigenous Nursing Health Advisory Committee. The committee also includes an Elder and cultural advisor and had input on what to include in an apology to Indigenous peoples.

She also travelled to the federation’s annual convention as it delivered the apology on behalf of its members on June 3 as a step towards reconciliation.

Read More: https://www.aptnnews.ca/national-news/first-nations-nursing-student-at-university-of-alberta-has-a-dream-for-the-future/

ELM and WLMG: Partners to Strengthen Industry Through Collaboration

Dear Partners and Colleagues,

ELM Inc. is proud to announce a strategic partnership with Willow Lake Métis Group (WLMG) -an Indigenous-owned organization widely recognized for its leadership in energy services, infrastructure support, and community-driven business development.

Established by the Willow Lake Métis Nation, WLMG delivers a range of industrial services, including workforce solutions, pipeline integrity, logistics, and environmental support. Their deep regional insight, Indigenous workforce model, and strong community presence make them an invaluable partner in advancing sustainable, inclusive project delivery.

ELM brings decades of experience in end of asset lifecycle management; and helps Energy companies assess and effectively retire their assets including wellbores, facilities and pipelines.

This collaboration is founded on a shared commitment to doing business differently—by integrating Indigenous values and leadership into every stage of execution. WLMG brings regional expertise and cultural connection; ELM contributes specialized technical capacity and a strong track record of performance in managing environmental liabilities. Together, we are shaping a delivery model that is practical, responsible, and built for lasting impact.

“This partnership reflects the kind of collaboration we want to see more of in industry,” says Jessica McKenzie, Manager of Partnerships & Business Development at WLMG. “It opens the door for Indigenous participation in ways that are practical, meaningful, and grounded in shared success.”

Our teams are already aligned and actively pursuing upcoming opportunities—offering clients enhanced environmental and operational services, rooted in integrity and cultural understanding.

“WLMG is proud to align with ELM in this step forward,” adds Andy Harnett, CEO of WLMG. “This collaboration enables us to deliver stronger solutions to industry while advancing our Nation’s goals of prosperity, capacity-building, and reconciliation.”

With shared values and complementary strengths, this partnership lays the foundation for long-term success. We look forward to the opportunities ahead—for our clients, our teams, and the communities we serve.

To explore more about ELM and WLMG, we invite you to visit www.elminc.ca and www.wlmg.ca.

Sincerely,

Andy Harnett
Chief Executive Officer, Willow Lake Métis Group

Jessica McKenzie
Manager of Partnerships & Business Development, Willow Lake Métis Group

NT4

Ontario and Alberta collude to put profits ahead of Indigenous clean water rights – Indigenous Watchdog

July 9, 2025

Canada’s National Observer: How do Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith really feel about Indigenous rights? Look no further than last week’s snub — a deplorable letter asking the federal government to bury the clean water act along with other environmental protections.

The First Nations Clean Water Act or Bill C-61 was designed to mandate safe water supply in First Nation communities, but died on the order paper before April’s federal election. Clean drinking water is a basic human necessity that — need we even say it? — almost all non-Indigenous people in Canada take for granted. The federal government pointed out that inequity in its rationale for the bill. “Currently, First Nations communities do not have legally enforceable safe drinking water protections similar to what is in place in provinces and territories.”

Read More: https://www.indigenouswatchdog.org/update/ontario-and-alberta-collude-to-put-profits-ahead-of-indigenous-clean-water-rights/

Black Diamond Group Limited Announces Timing for Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results and Conference Call

July 08, 2025

CALGARY, Alberta, July 08, 2025 Black Diamond Group Limited (“Black Diamond” or the “Company”) (TSX: BDI, OTCQX:BDIMF), a leading provider of space rental and workforce accommodation solutions, today announces the timing of its 2025 second quarter earnings release and conference call/webcast.

Black Diamond intends to release its 2025 second quarter results after markets close on Thursday, August 7, 2025, and hold a conference call and webcast at 9:00 a.m. MT (11:00 a.m. ET) on Friday, August 8, 2025.

CEO Trevor Haynes and CFO Toby LaBrie will discuss Black Diamond’s financial results for the quarter and then take questions from analysts and investors.

To access the conference call by telephone, dial toll free 1-833-821-2994. International callers should use 1-647-846-2491. Please connect approximately 10 minutes prior to the beginning of the call and ask to join the Black Diamond Group conference call.

To access the call via webcast, please log into the webcast link 10 minutes before the start time at: https://www.gowebcasting.com/14097

Following the conference call, a replay will be available in the Investor Centre section of the Company’s website at www.blackdiamondgroup.com, under Presentations & Events.

About Black Diamond

Black Diamond is a specialty rentals and industrial services Company with two operating business units – Modular Space Solutions (MSS) and Workforce Solutions (WFS). We operate in Canada, the United States, and Australia.

MSS through its principal brands, BOXX Modular, CLM, MPA Systems and Schiavi, owns a large rental fleet of modular buildings of various types and sizes. Its network of local branches rent, sell, service, and provide ancillary products and services to a diverse customer base in the construction, industrial, education, financial, and government sectors.

WFS, through its principal brands, owns a large rental fleet of modular accommodation assets of various types. Its regional operating terminals rent, sell, service, and provide ancillary products and services including turn-key operated camps to a wide array of customers in the resource, infrastructure, construction, disaster recovery, and education sectors.

In addition, WFS includes LodgeLink, which operates a digital marketplace for business-to-business crew accommodation, travel, and logistics in North America. The LodgeLink proprietary digital platform enables customers to efficiently find, book, and manage their crew travel and accommodation needs through a rapidly growing network of hotel, remote lodge, and travel partners. LodgeLink exists to solve the unique challenges associated with crew travel and applies technology to eliminate inefficiencies at every step of the crew travel process from booking, to management, to payments, to cost reporting.

Learn more at www.blackdiamondgroup.com.

Investor and Media Inquiries
Emma Covenden at 403-888-1666 or investor@blackdiamondgroup.com

To sign up for news alerts please go to https://www.blackdiamondgroup.com/investor/subscription/

NT4

Pembina Hills Students Participate in Land-Based Learning Camp at Métis Crossing – ENC

July 9, 2025

Nineteen high school students from Swan Hills School, Barrhead Composite High School, Barrhead Outreach School, Westlock Outreach School, and R.F. Staples Secondary School spent three days learning on the land at Métis Crossing near Smoky Lake.

Students had the opportunity to learn from Elders and Knowledge Holders about traditional medicines, fish filleting and fish scale art, trapping and trapper’s tents, Métis music and dance, and oral storytelling. Staying warm in the trappers’ tents proved to be challenging, but will be an experience not soon forgotten.

Overarching themes of responsibility, reciprocity, and relationship were explored throughout this unique division-wide experience. Students were able to demonstrate their learning and knowing (kishkayhta) and earn high school credits.

Read More: https://educationnewscanada.com/article/education/level/k12/3/1150799/pembina-hills-students-participate-in-land-based-learning-camp-at-metis-crossing.html

Update 11: Alberta wildfire update (July 8, 3 p.m.)

Jul 08, 2025

Warm, windy weather is expected to be followed by a cool-down later this week, which could help in the ongoing fire fight.

Current situation (as of 3 p.m., July 8)

  • There are 41 wildfires currently burning across Alberta in the Forest Protection Area, and four mutual aid fires.
    • 10 are classified as out of control, seven are being held and 24 are under control.
    • There have been three new wildfires since yesterday.
  • Since Jan. 1, there have been 723 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area, burning more than 662,000 hectares.
  • More than 1,500 Alberta firefighters, contract firefighters and imported firefighters are currently battling wildfires across the province.
  • Resources currently being used include heavy equipment, air tankers, helicopters and night vision helicopters.
  • Alberta has imported firefighters and aircraft from Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, Australia, Costa Rica and the United States Forest Service.
  • Information about wildfires can be found by visiting the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.

Orders and alerts

  • Updates on evacuation orders are available on www.alberta.ca/emergency.
  • On July 7, Saddle Hills County lifted its evacuation alert for the Blueberry Mountain area.
  • The Kee Tas Kee Now Tribal Council’s evacuation orders for Peerless Lake and Trout Lake remain in effect.
    • Registration centre at 10451 170 Street, Edmonton.
  • The Municipal District of Opportunity No. 17’s evacuation order for Chipewyan Lake also remains in effect.
    • Reception centre at Lakeview Sports Centre, 102 Opportunity Drive, Wabasca-Desmarais.
  • The Kee Tas Kee Now Tribal Council’s evacuation alert for the Loon River First Nation (Loon Lake) remains in effect.
  • The Municipal District of Opportunity No. 17’s evacuation alert for Red Earth Creek remains in effect.
  • Alberta Emergency Alerts are issued by local authorities and are updated at their discretion. For the best source of information on the status of evacuation orders and alerts, residents are encouraged to follow their local authorities’ preferred communication channels for updates.
  • People living in Alberta are encouraged to download the Alberta Emergency Alert mobile app, which immediately pushes all alerts out to subscribers.

Fire bans

  • A fire advisory is in place for the Grande Prairie Forest Area, due to strong winds.
    • Under the advisory, fire permits will only be considered on a case-by-case basis.
    • Safe campfires are still permitted.
  • Please confirm advisories, restrictions or bans for your area at alberta.ca/fire-bans.
  • Fire bans outside the Forest Protection Area are the responsibility of municipalities and counties.
  • Everyone has a role to play in wildfire prevention. Follow all fire bans and restrictions to avoid new fire starts. If you see smoke or flames in the forest, call 310-FIRE to report it.
  • Applying FireSmart principles to homes and property can mitigate the risk of wildfire damage. Removing flammable materials and vegetation around the property and preventing embers from accumulating can help protect your home from wildfires. To learn more, visit FireSmart Alberta.

Air quality

  • Visit Wildfire Smoke Information for air quality monitoring information to make informed decisions about outdoor activities to protect your health. While wildfire smoke is affecting air quality in parts of Alberta, the presence of smoke does not necessarily mean there is fire near your community. Find information about the status of active wildfires and wildfire updates at Alberta Wildfire.

Roads and highways

  • Highway 686 between Red Earth Creek and Trout Lake is closed due to a wildfire.
  • 511 Alberta is the best source of real time information as conditions change on our highways. Follow on X (formerly known as Twitter) @511alberta.
  • Alberta highways that are affected by the wildfires will open and close frequently depending on safety and weather conditions. Be patient and respect the staff at the closure/detour sites – they are there with your safety in mind.

Health

Child care

  • One child-care centre is currently closed in response to community evacuations:

o    Opportunity Childcare, in Red Earth Creek.

  • Licensed child-care programs are required to notify Child Care Connect if they close unexpectedly.
  • Parents and guardians should reach out to their child-care provider for information on closures.

Justice and court services

  • Court sittings will resume in person at the Red Earth Creek courthouse on July 15.

Related information

NT4

MSDC Announces a New Partnership building for the future.

Metis Settlements Development Corporation adn Duz Cho Group Construction LPare proud to announce their new partnership.

Duz Cho Group Construction LP, a leading construction services provider in British Columbia, which is wholly owned by the McLeod Lake Indian Band is a leader in heavy civil construction, environmental management, and resource development.

For over three decades, Duz Cho has have built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality, sustainable solutions across diverse sectors, including mining, forestry and energy. What sets them apart is their unwavering commitment to safety, sustainability, and community engagement. Their partnership-driven approach ensures that Indigenous perspectives remain at the forefront of land and resource development initiatives, aligning their work with the values and aspirations of the McLeod Lake Indian Band.

“Partnering with Metis Settlements Development Corporation is an exciting milestone for Duz Cho as it amplifies our shared vision of building resilient communities through collaborative and sustainable initiatives,” Jacob Albertson, CEO of Duz Cho Group of Companies.

“MSDC is proud to announce this partnership as part of its ongoing work to build economic opportunity for the Metis Settlements of Alberta.  We are excited about partnering with First Nations company to continue to advance our mandate.” Barbara McKenzie, CEO, Metis Settlements Development Corporation.

About Duz Cho

At Duz Cho, we take immense pride in our role as a leader in heavy civil construction, environmental management, and resource development. At Duz Cho, we strive to balance business objectives with the well-being of the environment and the communities we serve. Whether we are building critical infrastructure, managing natural resources, or restoring habitats, we approach each project with integrity, accountability, and respect.We are proud to demonstrate what is possible when Indigenous knowledge, collaboration, and innovation come together. As we continue to grow, our focus remains on empowering our people and creating long-term value for future generations. This is more than our mission; it is our legacy

About Métis Settlements Development Corporation (MSDC):

MSDC’s primary mission is to advance the economic interests of the Métis Settlements in Alberta. The Corporation manages investments on behalf of the Métis Settlements Limited Partnership.  MSDC blends social purpose with diversified investment strategies, reflecting a commitment to long-term revenue generation for Alberta’s Métis Settlements. MSDC recently launched the first Métis led Impact Investment Fund in Canada and is currently raising $50M in capital to fuel Indigenous investments into clean technology, food security, health and well being for indigenous communities as well as supporting Indigenous led businesses.

Learn more about MSDC and our other partnerships.

NT5

3 First Nations teams compete on new season of The Amazing Race Canada – CBC

Jul 08, 2025

Season 11 has more Indigenous teams racing than ever before in the show’s history

In the new season of The Amazing Race Canada, three of the 11 teams racing for the win are made up of First Nations competitors.

One of those teams is husband and wife duo Blair and Skylene Gladue.

Despite the intensity of the race, Blair said the best part of the experience was connecting with so many other First Nations teams.

Read More: https://www.cbc.ca/news/indigenous/first-nations-teams-amazing-race-canada-1.7579587

ASIRT investigations continue on two files

Jul 08, 2025

The Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) continues its investigations into two separate incidents.

Investigation ongoing into injury during Whitehorse arrest

On June 24, 2025, the Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) was directed to investigate a Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) arrest causing injury that occurred the previous day.

On June 23, Whitehorse RCMP received multiple complaints of a male entering people’s yards without permission. While patrolling the area, RCMP officers located a male matching the description and attempted to apprehend him. The male attempted to flee from the officers and was combative when apprehended. During the arrest, the male suffered injuries including a broken bone. Four officers were involved in the arrest and two have been designated subject officers. Body-worn camera footage of the arrest was provided to ASIRT by the RCMP.

As part of its ongoing investigation, ASIRT is continuing efforts to identify people who may have witnessed aspects of the confrontation between the man and police. ASIRT is asking anyone who may have been in the area and may have witnessed these events and/or may have cell phone or dash cam video to contact investigators at 780-644-1483.

Investigation continues into officer-involved shooting on Ermineskin Cree Nation

On June 24, the Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) was directed to investigate an officer-involved shooting that occurred on the Ermineskin Cree Nation.

At 2:28 p.m., plain clothes and uniformed RCMP officers attended a residence in response to a complaint of a male brandishing what appeared to be an improvised firearm. When officers arrived, the male was outside of the residence and in possession of the device. Commands were given for the male to drop the device, but he did not comply. The male engaged the officers near their vehicle and multiple officers discharged their firearms, striking the male. The male was provided medical assistance and then transported to hospital. Video from the incident from both the vehicle-based Watchguard systems as well as body-worn camera was provided to ASIRT by the RCMP.

As this matter is now under investigation, no further information will be released until the conclusion of the matter.

ASIRT’s mandate is to effectively, independently and objectively investigate incidents involving Alberta’s police that have resulted in serious injury or death to any person, as well as serious or sensitive allegations of police misconduct.

This release is distributed by the Government of Alberta on behalf of the Alberta Serious Incident Response Team.

NT5

Why the Canada Strong Pass Makes Métis Crossing More Accessible Than Ever

July 7, 2025

Canada is vast, breathtaking, and filled with cultural gems waiting to be explored. Now, a new initiative is making it easier than ever to explore those places. The Canada Strong Pass, a national rail pass, is opening doors to affordable, flexible travel across the country—and it’s a game-changer for access to destinations like Métis Crossing.

“A new national initiative is making cultural travel more accessible—and Métis Crossing is proud to be part of the journey.”

As domestic tourism continues to grow, more Canadians are seeking meaningful ways to connect with the land and its stories. Métis Crossing, Alberta’s premier Métis cultural destination, is now more reachable than ever thanks to this innovative travel solution.

What Is the Canada Strong Pass?

The Canada Strong Pass is a national rail pass developed in partnership with VIA Rail that connects major Canadian cities by train. It’s designed to make travel not only affordable, but also incredibly convenient for those exploring the country.

With this pass, travellers can hop on and off trains across Canada, opening up new ways to experience the country from coast to coast. It offers:

  • Affordability: Flat-rate pricing makes it easier to plan multi-city trips without breaking the bank.
  • Flexibility: You choose your destinations and timeline.
  • Ease of Travel: Say goodbye to airport hassles and hello to scenic, comfortable rail journeys.

Whether you’re searching for the best Canada travel deals, looking to explore Indigenous destinations, or simply want a stress-free way to see more of the country, the rail pass Canada travellers have been waiting for has arrived.

How It Supports Cultural and Heritage Tourism

While major cities are often top of mind for travellers, the Canada Strong Pass is uniquely positioned to promote cultural tourism in Alberta and beyond. It encourages travellers to go beyond the typical tourist hubs and engage with communities that offer deep, meaningful experiences.

Heritage travel has seen a surge in popularity, with Canadians looking to connect with the stories, landscapes, and cultures that shape this country. Indigenous tourism in Canada is also gaining momentum as travellers seek authentic and respectful experiences.

Métis Crossing, just 90 minutes from Edmonton, is ideally situated for those venturing off the beaten path. With the Canada Strong Pass bringing travellers as far as Edmonton with ease, it’s never been simpler to extend your journey to include a visit to our cultural destination rooted in Métis history.

Visiting Métis Crossing with the Canada Strong Pass

Once you’ve arrived in Edmonton via VIA Rail, you’re just a short scenic drive away from Métis Crossing. Here’s a sample itinerary for a trip from Eastern Canada:

  • Day 1-2: Depart from Toronto or Montreal and travel westward, enjoying Canada’s landscapes from the comfort of the train.
  • Day 3: Arrive in Edmonton. Rent a car or arrange transportation to Métis Crossing.
  • Day 4-5: Stay at the Lodge at Métis Crossing or in one of our Sky Watching Domes. Enjoy hands-on workshops, traditional arts, and explore the Visions, Hopes and Dreams Wildlife Park.
  • Day 6: Return to Edmonton and continue your rail journey or head home.

Visitors often describe Métis Crossing as “transformative,” praising the immersive cultural experiences, warm hospitality, and sense of connection to the land. Whether you’re trying your hand at beading, learning traditional harvesting techniques, or dining on Indigenous-inspired cuisine, there’s a unique sense of place that stays with you.

Why This Matters for Métis Communities and Cultural Preservation

For Métis communities, initiatives like the Canada Strong Pass are about more than just travel. They represent opportunities for Canadians to engage with and better understand Métis culture in ways that are immersive and grounded in community.

As more visitors seek Indigenous experiences in Alberta, Métis Crossing stands out as a place of learning, connection, and preservation. Located on ancestral lands, our site is a living, breathing testament to the contributions, resilience, and traditions of the Métis people.

Bringing more Canadians to these spaces helps sustain cultural programming and supports the broader goal of cultural revitalization. Every visit helps ensure that these stories, crafts, and traditions are not only shared but carried forward.

How to Plan Your Visit

Booking your Canada Strong Pass is simple through VIA Rail’s website or authorized partners. Once you’ve mapped out your journey and planned your stop in Edmonton, it’s time to book your Métis Crossing experience.

Accommodation options include:

  • The Lodge at Métis Crossing, offering boutique rooms steeped in culture.
  • Sky Watching Domes, perfect for stargazing in fall or winter.
  • Trapper’s tents and camping for those seeking a rustic experience.

Seasonal highlights to consider:

  • Summer: Cultural events, hands-on workshops, wildlife park visits.
  • Fall: Stargazing, storytelling, and the changing colours of the North Saskatchewan River valley.
  • Winter: Cosy up in the Lodge, enjoy snowshoeing, and learn winter survival skills the Métis way.

No matter when you visit, the atmosphere at Métis Crossing is one of warmth, respect, and welcome.

Make your Journey Meaningful

With the Canada Strong Pass, travel is no longer a barrier to connecting with the heart of this country. It brings you not just across distances, but closer to the stories and cultures that define us.

At Métis Crossing, we invite you to experience the journey in every sense of the word. From train tracks to riverbanks, let your travels deepen your understanding of who we are.

Book your stay today and let your travels bring you closer to Canada’s heart.

NT4

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