Referring to the change of venue and timing of the AGA, President Lipinski said: “I want MNO citizens to know, their new leadership did not make this decision lightly…. However, in considering the logistical, administrative and fiscal challenges holding the MNO AGA in July would create this year, we believe this new direction for this year is the right decision for the Métis nation….” In another interview Gary stated that the PCMNO had taken a great deal of time and considered all the factors and knew the consequences and disappointment some would have in delaying the AGA.

“The MNO’s new leadership is committed to a ‘new way of doing business’…. As a part of the transparent, frank and two-way dialogue, I want to continue to reassure MNO citizens that we will consult with them over the next year on how they would like to proceed with respect to future MNO AGAs.” To this end, when citizens receive their “kits” at the Special President's Assembly/AGA 2008 they will also receive a questionnaire seeking individual and family input on a preferred time frame for AGA 2009. Please note however, that this will not be discussed at the assembly. There will be opportunities to respond online and further information will be available in subsequent Voyageurs.

Day 1 - November 16, 2008:

What better way to start this special three-day event than on Riel Day, November 16th. Although Riel Day occurs on the anniversary of the day Louis Riel was hung in 1885, we come together to celebrate his heroic life.

For those wanting transportation, shuttle buses will be available at the host venue, the Days Hotel & Conference Centre, Toronto Airport East to take people to Queen's Park where everyone will assemble by 10:40 A.M. for the raising of the Métis flag. Led by Aboriginal veterans, Elders and a Legion Honour Guard, participants will march to the Northwest Rebellion Monument, where the opening prayer will be delivered. This year’s MC, PCMNO Chair France Picotte, will open the ceremonies and make introductions and Vice-chair Sharon McBride will speak on behalf of the Women’s Secretariat of the Métis Nation of Ontario. Other speakers will include representatives from First Nations; the federal government; Ontario Government; the Ontario Conservative Party; the Ontario New Democratic Party, and Métis Youth. Finally, Gary Lipinski, President of the Métis Nation of Ontario, and Jean Teillet, representing the Riel family will lay a wreath. A moment of silence will follow before the closing remarks.

Bus shuttles will be available to return participants to the Days Hotel & Conference Centre. The day will culminate in the Lady Hilton Ballroom around 6:00 P.M. with a dinner feast, the swearing in of the new PCMNO and the Senators, and live entertainment.

Beginning at 9:00 A.M. on November 17th, the nation’s business will get underway. A draft of agenda items is provided below. The final agenda will be available soon.

Day 2 – November 17, 2008, will include:

• The signing of the MNO/Ontario Framework Agreement;
• Reports from Finance and Administration (including):
  • Report by MNO Secretary/Treasurer (Tim Pile),
  • Report by MNO Chief Operating Officer (Doug Wilson),
  • Presentation on 2007/08 audit by MNO Director of Finance (Steve Berry) and MNO auditor (Collin Barrows LLP)
  • Approval of 2007/08 audit and appointment of auditor for 2008/09.
• Workshop on Duty to Consult and Accommodate including:
  • Update on Métis rights developments (Jean Teillet);
  • Presentation on developing an Ontario Métis Consultation Framework (Jason Madden and Bob Waldon);
  • Question and Discussion;
  • Update on Ipperwash Report implementation and New Relationship Fund (Jason Madden and Joanne Meyer);
  • Question and Discussion;
• Resolutions from workshop on Métis Rights and Crown’s Duty to Consult

Day 3 – November 18, 2008, highlights will include:

• Strategic Planning Workshop on Building a Stronger Métis Nation and Empowering Métis Communities and Métis Citizens:
  • Presentation and facilitated open discussion on developing a strategic plan for the MNO (Institute on Governance) presentation on accessing economic opportunities and building wealth and self-sustainability with Métis communities and Métis nation.
  • Resolutions and by-law amendments.
  • Winding up the third day is the presentation of the Volunteer of the Year Award, which will take place during the evening meal.

Our Venue: As people are preparing to attend this event, the MNO has negotiated a special corporate rate at the Days Hotel & Conference Centre, Toronto Airport East, 1677 Wilson Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M3L 1A5. Our MNO Special Rate is $87/night/room (double occupancy) plus taxes

Hotel Overview: The Days Hotel & Conference Centre, Toronto Airport East is located where Highways 401 and 400 intersect. Guests can access the sunlit indoor swimming pool, sauna, whirlpool and fitness room; free on-site parking and complimentary airport shuttle service. Spacious guest rooms all come equipped with coffee maker, complimentary coffee/tea, iron and ironing board, hair dryer, data port voice mail and free high speed internet access. The lobby features two restaurants, lounge, gift shop and a car rental agency. In the immediate neighbourhood, is the 75 store North York Sheridan Mall, several plazas featuring restaurants, banks, pharmacies, beer and liquor stores and numerous other services. The hotel is situated five miles from Toronto's Lester B. Pearson International airport, close to the Yorkdale Mall and only eight miles from the CN Tower. Web site: http://www.daysto.com/

DIRECTIONS TO THE HOTEL:

From Highway 400: Exit on Collectors for Black Creek Drive. Exit at Jane Street and turn left (North). Follow Jane Street to Wilson Avenue and turn left (West). Follow Wilson to the Hotel.

From Highway 401 (East or Westbound): Exit on Collectors for Black Creek Drive. Exit at Jane Street and turn left (north). Follow Jane Street to Wilson Avenue and turn left (West). Follow Wilson to the Hotel.

From Queen Elizabeth Way: Follow QEW and exit on Highway 427 North. Follow Highway 427 to Highway 401 East. Follow Highway 401 and exit on Black Creek Drive. Exit at Jane Street and turn let (north). Follow Jane Street to Wilson Avenue and turn left (west). Follow Wilson to the Hotel.

Reservations: To reserve your room and secure our special corporate rate please contact Loma Rowlinson directly at the MNO Head Office 1-800-263-4889 extension 113. Please reserve soon to avoid disappointment as rooms are limited.

Métis Vendors: Be sure to watch for and support our Métis vendors who can be found in the Trafalgar Room next to our large meeting room. Interested vendors are also required to contact Loma as soon as possible to ensure that a spot is secured and available for you.

As always, we welcome you and your family and hope that you can join us as we continue to look to the future, together.