Friday, March 31, 2006

What does the constitution say about the timing of our next election?

Dear Webmaster:

According to our constitution when does President Chartrand have to announce the date of the next election?

Concerned Metis
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Dear Concerned:

Funny you should ask. Was talking with a very reliable source the other day who seemed quite certain the MMF must announce the date no later than April 26, 2006. The vote would then have to take place on or before June 26, 2006.

There has been speculation David Chartrand my try to delay it on the basis he has to be involved in the land claims trial. Problem for him is, the Federation has two or three well paid lawyers on the payroll to look after that sort of thing. Word on the street is the President doesn't want you going to the polls until after the Yvon Dumont and CyberSmokeSignals lawsuits have been resolved. Besides, everyone knows the current administration has already violated your constitution on numerous occasions.

A heads up!

Friday March 31, 2006

Tansi/Good Day Readers:

Tomorrow there will be a lengthy article about the Metis land claims case by Winnipeg Free Press reporter Leah Janzen (leah.janzen@freepress.mb.ca).

Sincerely,
Clare L. Pieuk

Case file housekeeping!

Tansi/Good Day Folks:

The following information was provided upon request and as a courtesy by Mr. Jeffrey J. Niederhoffer.

Sincerely,
Clare L. Pieuk
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JEFFREY J. NIEDERHOFFER, LL.B., CCL
Attorney-at-Law
Campbell, Marr LLP
10 Donald StreetWinnipeg, Manitoba
R3C 1L5
Telephone: (204) 942-3311
Fax: (204) 943-7997
jniederhoffer@campbellmarr.comhttp://www.campbellmarr.com/

----- Original Message -----
From: Jeff Niederhoffer
To: Murray Trachtenberg
Sent: Thursday, March 30, 2006 3:23 PM
Subject: MMF et al v.Belhumeur

Murray,

On Wednesday, our Office received confirmation from Kelly Legere that both sets of Orders - not only the set of two to be submitted to Senior Master Lee, but also the set for submission to Master Cooper - were submitted to the respective Master's Offices on Tuesday.

JN

-----Original Message-----
From: Murray Trachtenberg <mtrachtenberg@ptlaw.mb.ca>
Sent: Thursday, March 30, 2006 3:16 PM
To: Jeff Niederhoffer
Subject: MMF et al v.Belhumeur

Have you submitted Master Lee`s Order to the Court?

MNT/

Thursday, March 30, 2006

CNN's Nancy Grace (well sort of) coming to Winnipeg!

Tansi/Good Day Folks:

Earlier today I was in Manitoba Court of Queen's Bench representing myself while Mr. Murray N. Trachtenberg attended on behalf of the Plaintiffs (Manitoba Metis Federation). Since this site is attracting more and more visitors from around the world, we'll take a moment to explain. The MMF is alleging two of us formerly associated with Winnipeg based www.CyberSmokeSignals.com and it's current domain name owner defamed the organization in an online petition posted in late January 2004. The Federation is publicly funded (approximately $20 million annually - Government of Canada 95% the Province the remainder).

Like many of you, prior to this litigation I had never set foot in a courtroom while my knowledge of the law was limited to watching old black and white Perry Mason episodes growing up as a boy in London, Ontario. Later I graduated to Judge Joe Brown (He's my favourite - great sense of humour!) and Judge Judy. One experience I can share with you is the deep and profound respect I have acquired for the knowledge, professionalism and fairness of Manitoba's judiciary. To date an astounding ninety-two (92) documents have been filed in this case the vast preponderance by Counselor Trachtenberg. By the time we're trial ready there could well be over two hundred (200)!

Until recently I didn't know a Master is an experienced lawyer who rules on pre-trial Motions. To date we've been before Senior Master Lee (twice), as well as, Masters Cooper and Sharp. The way it's going I'll probably have encountered everyone at the Provincial Law Courts Building. Rest assured if you should find yourself facing them you will be treated with the utmost respect, dignity, professionalism and above all fairness. This morning it was The Honourable Justice McCawley. Also, a special thank you to the Court Clerk who upon learning I'd be self-representing qrickly briefed me on proper protocol before Justice McCawley entered, however, I do not know her name. Fortuately, I was granted an adjournment about which I'll have more to say very shortly.

There's another trial scheduled to begin soon (April 24, 2006 - unless there's an postponement) we'll be tracking very closely on this site - that of former Manitoba Lieutenant Governor The Honourable Yvon Dumont. For better or worse, depending upon your perspective, cameras and video equipment are not allowed in Canadian courtrooms otherwise we'd find a way to webcam every proceeding.

So where does this leave us? I'll be your court reporter for both cases. Although not as knowledgeable and certainly not as attractive as CNN's Nancy Grace I'll do my best. Trust us Ms Grace you have nothing to worry about from your fans in Canada - please don't sue us!

Sincerely,
Clare L. Pieuk

Wednesday, March 29, 2006

I'm really hard to find - hiding out in the Witness Protection Program everybody!

----- Original Message -----
From: Murray Trachtenberg
To: Jeffrey J. Niederhoffer
Cc: CLARE PIEUK
Sent: Wednesday, March 15, 2006 9:01 AM
Subject: MMF et al v. Belhumeur et al

Attention: Jeffrey J. Niederhoffer
Attention: Clare L. Pieuk

Mr. Pieuk attended at my office on March 14, 2006 and left a Notice of Intention to Act in Person with my assistant.

I draw your attention to Queen's Bench Rule 15.02(3). A Notice of Intention to Act in Person must provide the address for service and telephone number of the party acting in person.

The document prepared and served by Mr. Pieuk does not satisfy this requirement.

I am requesting Mr. Pieuk serve an appropriate Notice of Intention to Act in Person forthwith.

Yours truly,
MNT/

Northwest Region's Annual General Meeting!

Dear Webmaster:

Recently a group of us attended the MMF Northwest Region's Annual General Meeting held in Swan River on March 18, 2006. Thought your readers might be interested in a few highlights:

  • Close to 400 members attended and about another 50 or so non members - a lot of Bill C-31's in attendance for the voting of 3 Local Management Board Members
  • David Chartrand arrived after lunch and hee-hawed about the CyberSmokeSignals court case saying Metis Mom was now going to him for help because she realized she needed their assistance
  • No one got up to ask President Chartrand questions - it seemed everyone was scared
  • Denise Thomas read from and spoke about the 14 page Board of Directors Report on CyberSmokeSignals. Once again, no one asked questions
  • David Chartrand said Directors Richard DeLaRonde and Bonnie McIntyre who removed themselves as Plaintiffs could not re-enter the lawsuit
  • Bonnie McIntyre left the meeting before Denise Thomas arrived to address the group. Some members talked with her later that evening and were told had she stayed she may have been asked about the CSS lawsuit and would have had to tell the truth probably losing her job as a result
  • Ms McIntyre said there was a lot of truth posted on CyberSmokeSignals and didn't like the way David Chartrand and his inner circle were managing the damage control situation
  • Later in the afternoon several members were overhead joking outside about getting their $50 cheques for attending and having a drink on the Chartrands (Elbert and David)

Parkland Métis
(Descendants of Louis Riel's Right-Hand Man)

"The committee to free Metis Mom, Clare and Terry?"

Dear Webmaster Pieuk:

I was checking Manitoba's Metis specific blogs and came upon the following in the "Comments" section of www.derrylsanderson.blogspot.com and www.randydelaronde.blogspot.com. Sounds like you guys have friends out there. Great site!

Winnipeg MMF Member
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Anonymous said ...

Regarding the MMF's lawsuit against CyberSmokeSignals.com, here's a list of the Plaintiffs' cellular telephones (paid for by the membership), fax numbers plus e-mail addresses we've obtained so far. "The Committee" is working on acquiring the remainder. Since there's an election just around the corner, why not let them know voters what you think of all the money they're giving Murray Trachtenberg?

"The Committee To Free Metis Mom, Clare And Terry!"

Home Office: www.mmf.mb.ca
Telephone: (204) 586-8474
Fax: (204) 947-1816

Plaintiff President David Chartrand
Cellular: (204) 791-4746
ca@mmf.mb.ca
dchartra@mmf.mb.ca

Board of Directors
bdirectr@mmf.mb.ca

Counsel for the Plaintiffs
Murray N. Trachtenberg
www.ptlaw.mb.ca
mtrachtenberg@ptlaw.mb.ca
Direct Line: (204) 940-9602

Plaintiff Director Anita Campbell
Cellular: (204) 679-0857
Fax: (204) 677-0970

Plaintiff Director Elbert Chartrand
Cellular: (204) 734-8704/3090
Fax: (204) 734-3090

Plaintiff Director Rita Cullen
Cellular: (204) 761-5634
Fax: (204) 727-2168

Plaintiff Director Darrel Deslauriers
Cellular: (202) 793-0447
Fax: (204) 447-3407

Plaintiff Director Jean Desrosiers
Cellular: (204) 479-1929
Fax: (204) 347-5819

Plaintiff Director William Flett
Cellular: (204) 785-0649
Fax: (204) 482-7431

Plaintiff: Director John Fleury
Cellular: (204) 794-9916

Plaintiff Director Laura Hyrich
mlhyrich@mb.sympatico.ca
hyrich@hotmail.com
Cellular: (204) 471-4414
Fax: (204) 623-2825

Plaintiff Director Julyda Lagimodiere
Cellular: (204) 679-0465
Fax: (204) 677-6439

Plaintiff Director Joyce Langan
Cellular: (204) 281-1430

Plaintiff Director Leah LaPlante
manmetis@mts.net
Cellular: (204) 724-0110

Plaintiff Director Judy Mayer
Cellular: (204) 781-1347

Plaintiff Director Rosemarie McPherson
Cellular: (204) 793-2313

Plaintiff Director Derryl Montgomery
Cellular: (204) 679-6016

Plaintiff Director Marilee Nault
Cellular: (204) 799-2587
Fax: (204) 429-2074

Plaintiff Director Jack Park
Cellular: (204) 785-0359

Plaintiff Director Claire Riddle
Cellular: (204) 794-8054
Fax: (204) 586-9695

Plaintiff Director Denise Thomas
semetis@granite.mb.ca
Cellular: (204) 771-0554

We love it - Thank you "Committee To Free Metis Mom, Clare And Terry!"

It should be noted Directors/Plaintiffs Richard DeLaRonde and Bonnie McIntyre had Counselor Trachtenberg sign a Notice of Discontinuance a couple months ago meaning they withdrew from the case. Of the twenty-three Member Provincial Board, Winnipeg Regional Vice-President Ron Chartrand was the only one who had the cojones not to join the lawsuit. Thank you Sir - that was a very wise decision indeed!

Tuesday, March 28, 2006

Yvon Dumont goes on trial April 24, 2006!

Tansi/Good Day Readers:

We have obtained the complete trial "pleadings" for The Honourable Yvon Dumont Canada and Manitoba's first Metis Lieutenant Governor.

By way of brief explanation, this simply means we have accessed every public legal document registered to date in the case - there have been 11. Compare that with A WHOPPING 91 AND GROWING! - the vast preponderance of which have been entered into the official Court record by Federation lawyer Murray Trachtenberg - in the MMF Leadership defamation suit against CyberSmokeSignals.com. Anyone can visit the Court of Queen's Bench File Registry (Provincial Law Courts Building) and for the princely sum of $5 (assuming you're not one of the litigants otherwise it's free) read the material and photocopy your face off! Pleadings generally include pre-trial documents such as: Statements of Claim and Defence; Affidavits; Notice of Motions, as well as, Motion Briefs.

So where do we go from here? Easy:

(1) The lawsuit alleges Mr. Dumont owes the Metis National Council Secretariat approximately $47,000 worth of salary because he left his position as a Goodwill Ambassador to run for President in the 2003 MMF election. The Plaintiffs' further claim by so doing he violated an agreement not to become involved in Metis politics for two years affer leaving Office

(2) Very shortly we will be posting the Statement of Claim Mr. Murray N. Trachtenberg prepared and filed on behalf of the Metis National Council Secretariat. This will be followed by Mr. Dumont's Statement of Defence plus other Court documents of significance

(3) The trial is set to open Monday April 24, 2006 and is scheduled to last four days. ISN'T THAT IRONIC RIGHT IN THE MIDDLE OF THE LAND CLAIMS CASE OF WHICH THE HONOURABLE YVON DUMONT IS ONE OF THE ORIGINAL SIGNATORIES! Please stay tuned, we have a lot more in the pipeline regarding this lawsuit.

Sincerely,
Clare L. Pieuk

Amused and amusing - the joy of working with Murray!

----- Original Message -----
From: "Jeffrey J. Niederhoffer" <jjn@luk-law.com>
To: <pieuk@shaw.ca>
Sent: Saturday, March 04, 2006 9:05 AM
Subject: Re: MMF et al v. Belhumeur et al / CI 05-01-41955

From: "Murray Trachtenberg" <mtrachtenberg@ptlaw.mb.ca>
Date: 2006/03/03 Fri PM 05:09:30 CST
To: "Jeffrey J. Niederhoffer" <jjn@luk-law.com>
CC: "Terry Belhumeur" <oakhammock101@yahoo.ca>
Subject: Re: MMF et al v. Belhumeur et al / CI 05-01-41955

I am pleased that you are amused. In December you told me that Mr. Belhumeur wanted to cross-examine Mr. Boulette. I waited for that to be set up. It never happened. You also told me that you were going to file an affidavit in opposition to the motion but that you needed approximately 30 days. You have yet to file any affidavit.

While I originally intended to bring the matter back before the court to establish timelines it became obvious that that would not be productive. I offered you a number of days in March for this motion and you called this morning telling me to wait until Monday or Tuesday before you would respond. Only when I insisted that there be a response today did you pick a day and of course it is at the very end of the month.

I`m not sure why you are amused given the above. Please do not talk about inaction by the plaintiffs in moving this matter ahead.

MNT/

----- Original Message -----
From: "Jeffrey J. Niederhoffer" <jjn@luk-law.com>
To: "Murray Trachtenberg" <mtrachtenberg@ptlaw.mb.ca>; "Terry Belhumeur"> oakhammock101@yahoo.ca
Sent: Friday, March 03, 2006 1:06 PM
Subject: MMF et al v. Belhumeur et al / CI 05-01-41955

March 3, 2006

Posner & Trachtenberg
Barristers, Solicitors & Notaries Public
710-491 Portage Avenue
Winnipeg, MB R3B 2E4

Attention: Murray N. Trachtenberg
VIA EMAIL

Dear Sirs:

RE: MMF et al v. Belhumeur et al / CI 05-01-41955

Further to the above-captioned matter, and to your email of even date, we note with some amusement your wish for no further delay in respect of your Motion as referenced in said email, as the plaintiffs' own inaction for several months has been the sole source of any "delay" in relation to said Motion. As a courtesy, to accommodate your request, we advise that we are willing to accept the last date you have providrf as the date for a contested hearing .

Yours truly,
JEFFREY J. NIEDERHOFFER
JJN/

From: "Murray Trachtenberg" <mtrachtenberg@ptlaw.mb.ca>
Date: 2006/03/03 Fri AM 10:23:25 CST
To: "Terry Belhumeur" <oakhammock101@yahoo.ca>, <"Jeffrey J. Niederhoffer">, <jjn@luk-law.com>
Subject: MMF et al v. Belhumeur at al

Attention: Jeff Niederhoffer

This is a follow-up to our exchange of telephone messages this morning. Whatever developments are taking place that you refer to in your message, I do not see how these can possibly impact on an agreement on dates for the setting down of my Motion. I am not prepared to wait until Monday or Tuesday as you suggested. I have given you specific available dates in March. As counsel, I expect the courtesy back from you to be advised which of those dates work for you. I am then setting down my Motion. I am also sending a copy of this email to Mr. Belhumeur. I expect to hear from him today as well. I am not willing to accept any further delay in getting this Motion heard.

MNT/

Monday, March 27, 2006

To cyberparents - watch what you say to your children!

Daughter Gets Cyber-Revenge After Family Feud Goes On-line
By Sam Jones, London
The Globe And Mail
March 20, 2006
Page A10

An exasperated father has discovered that cyberspace in not the ideal arena for family feuds. Two weeks ago, Steve Williams became so fed up with his darughter's messy bedroom that he built a website featuring pictures of his slothful offspring's lair in an attempt to shame her ito action.

But the public humiliation proved a short-lived victory. While it did spur his daughter, Claire, into tidying up her room, it also whet her appetite for revenge. With the help of her daughter's friends, the 20-year old business student has now set up a rival website that displays photos of him in a variety of compromising situations.

"All my friends feel sorry for Claire so they're ganging up on me," said Mr. Williams, of Whitehaven, Cumbria, in northern England. They've managed to dig out photos of me drunk and dancing round with a handbag at a party, and also put pictures of my garage on to show it's not just Claire who's untidy.

"The boot's on the other foot now, but I suppose I deserve it."

Despite the embarrassment, Mr. Williams, said he has no regrets.

"It started off as a flippant remark, with me saying to Claire: "If you don't sort your room out I am going to put that pic on the internet," he said.

"It had the desired effect. Her bedroom is not immaculate, but it's a hundred times better. My son has started keeping his tidy too. He's living in fear of being outed!

"Claire is absolutely mortified. She has only just started speaking to me again."

Mr. Williams's site, www.shameit.com has proved popular with disgruntled families from all over the world. Nearly 40,000 people have visited the site in its first fortnight.

"I can't believe it," said Mr. Williams, a computer programmer." I certainly wasn't expecting this kind of response. We've had people from as far as New Zealand, Japan and South Africa. I had to do an interview with a radio station in Brisbane the other day.

"But it obviously works, because we've had lots of shameful pictures going up one day and taken down the next!"

Gardian News Service

Sunday, March 26, 2006

Another new feature, "Follow The Green!"

Tansi/Good Day Folks:

The comments shown below arrived via our "Comments" link in response to the article, "Let's start another posting!" Since a couple very interesting points were raised, thought it warranted main page coverage. To save time I'll add my two cents in green. Why that colour:

(1) My sister's code name for me is "Deep Tortoise"

(2) At almost 62 I've lost a step or two although I can still give it ladies!

(3) She remembers "Deep Throat" from the Watergate scandal

(4) I seem to know so much about the internal operations of the Manitoba Metis Federation - wonder why/how?

(5) I'm a Boston Celtics fan

Sincerely,
Clare L. Pieuk
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Anonymous said ...

(i) "Is currently involved in litigation against the owner and the operator of the internet website known as Cybersmokesignals.com."

You will have to re-word the part above. You should make it "former webmaster." By stating it that way Terry was the owner and operator - it suggests that you as one of the defendants are saying you had nothing to with the postings made on CSS.

Oh, but I did! The allegedly defamatory words were the idea of Lionel Chartrand who then wrote them and gave us permission to post. I have three e-mail (actually I have a lot more!) which clearly demonstrate this statement to be true.

Terry Belhumeur as domain name owner (although as a courtesy I paid half the $56 U.S. annual fee to re-register it - have the cancelled cheques) often chose not to get involved in the daily operations of CSS.com. Therefore, for significant periods I would not hear from him either by e-mail or telephone. Whether, for example, he was monitoring the site from his home computer you'll have to ask him. The posting of the petition took place during one of these times.

(ii) "At least two of our Members are being sued for statements made and published on said internet site."

This part should say "two Members in good standing with the MMF are being sued." By the "at least" you bring into question there are more than those stated above in the legal action."

Metis_mom@hotmail.com (Vanessa Everton) and Terry Belhumeur are MMF Members. Are they both in good standing? Don't know although I assume so - they've never told me otherwise, however, Terry at least in the eyes of President Chartrand may not be given he dared criticize the current administration. I'm the third Co-defendant and non-Aboriginal.

Let's start another petition!

Tansi/Good Evening Folks:

A couple months ago "The Metis Hunter" contacted CyberSmokeSignals.com while I was webmaster. Over the years, I'd grown to repect this contributor for their insightful, well expressed and written articles. In going through my Archives I came across the following and thought why not? One group has already sent two lists of particulars of those taxpayers opposed to the Manitoba Metis Federation spending more public money suing CSS.com.

The instructions for getting involved and participating are really easy:

(i) If you're opposed to the defamation lawsuit send me (pieuk@shaw.ca) your name, address, telephone, telephone and if an MMF Member your Local/card number. Your particulars will only be made available to those receiving the master list (i.e. Permier Doer/Prime Minister Harper)

(ii) The MMF has an annual budget of approximately $20 million about 95% of which comes from Ottawa the rest Manitoba. Therefore, if you're a Canadian taxpayer you can participate whether Aboriginal or not

In light of recent events at the Winnipeg Region's Annual General Meeting, we'd like to dedicate this posting to PLAINTIFF and MMF Southeast Vice-President DENISE THOMAS! So what say you readers? Here's "Metis Hunter's" Petition.

Sincerely,
Clare L. Pieuk
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Hi Clare,

Here is a sample petition that I think would convey the sentiment out there and perhaps help you in your court case. It's just an idea but I think if you can show the Members of the MMF don't feel the organization itself has suffered harm to its reputation by reason of the statements made, then there is no reason for it being involved in a litigation. Anyway, run it by your lawyer for his opinion and dressing up of the wording.

Take Care,
The Metis Hunter
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PETITION

We, the undersigned, being voting members of the Manitoba Metis Federation Inc., do hereby make request and say that:

(1) Whereas the Manitoba Metis Federation Inc. is governed by a Board of Directors elected by its Members and

(2) Whereas we believe that all Members of theManitoba Metis Federation Inc. have the democratic right to speak to any issue(s) relating to our representation by the Mantioba Metis Federation Inc.

(3) Whereas the Board of Directors of the Manitoba Metis Federation:

(i) Is currently involved in litigation against the owner and the operator of the internet website known as Cybersmokesignals.com

(ii) At least two of our Members are being sued for statements made and published on said internet site

(iii) That a majority of theManitoba Metis Federation Board of Directors feel the wording of the petition to be insulting and/or deemed injurious to their reputations and that of the organization they purportedly represent

(iv) Whereas in our estimation the esteemed reputation of the Manitoba Metis Federation Inc. is intact and has not been diminished in any way by statements made and published on CSS.com at anytime in the past

(v) Whereas we are of the opinion that if any of the Members of the Board of Directors feel their reputation(s) have been negatively impacted upon in any way by statements made and published on Cybersmokesignals.com, then those Directors should be advancing litigation on their own using personal funds and taxpayer dollars

Therefore we request and make known to all citizens that we protest the involvement of our organization, the Manitoba Metis Federation Inc. in the litigation against CSS.com, its owners, operators and contributors in any way whatsoever.

Strictly Private/Confidential
Name:
Address:
Local (if applicable):
Card Number (if applicable):
Telephone:
E-mail:

Saturday, March 25, 2006

"The Metis Hour Times Two Report" - sponsored by your "ABC Committee!"

Tansi/Good Day Folks:

This is being written as the MHX2 is in progress. By the way, the ABC is "Anyone But Chartrand." Highlights so far:

(1) David Chartrand has arrived from the Winnipeg Region's Annual General Meeting and taken over the program from host Ray ("I cut Derryl Sanderson off on the radio!") St. Germain. Co-defendant Terry Behumeur was asked by WRO Vice-President Ron Chartrand to Chair it, however, that decision is by vote so if Mr. Chartrand turned up with enough of his supporters someone else could have been appointed. Not doubt webmaster Belhumeur will file his report shortly on www.CyberSmokeSignals.com

(2) President Chartrand had breakfast this morning with Winnipeg South Member of Parliament Rod Bruinooge (Parliamentary Secretary to Indian Affairs And Northern Development Canada Minister Jim Prentice) raising his concerns about commercial/recreational fishing in Manitoba. Mr. Chartrand's commercial fishing license number is W51

(3) Mr. Chartrand expressed his concern to Dan Vandal, Member of a Partnership Committee which allocates money to Winnipeg Metis, that not enough funding was being made available. For example, of the 27 Winnipeg Locals only one received $10,000 last year. The only other recipient was The Metis Club ($26,000) which Yvon Dumont was instrumental in establishing and which has met with great success

(4) The land claims case opens in Manitoba Court of Queen's Bench Monday April 3, 2006 and is expected to last six months. The President estimated the trial will cost $500,000. The good news is there will be a mortgage burning ceremony shortly to celebtate ownership of the $5 million Home Office located at 150 Henry Avenue, Winnipeg. According to Mr. Chartrand, that will provide collateral to pay the legal fees. What he conveniently forgets to mention is the hundreds and hundreds of thousands of dollars already spent under his Presidency to date on this litigation. However, he did offer Dr. Tom Flanagan (Professor, University of Calgary), and Senior Advisor to Prime Minister Harper, who accordingly to David Chartrand advocates Metis have no rights or entitlement to land, may be called to testify for the Defendants (Attorney Generals of Canada and Manitoba)

(5) Sunday evening (5:30) April 2, 2006 there will be a gathering at The Forks behind the Johnston Terminal Building (funded by the Metis National Council) to celebrate the trial's opening. Lots of entertainers including Ray St. Germain and Dave Lavallee from the MHX2 - sorry Derryl (Sanderson) no mention made of you. Wonder why? There will be food (pig roasting), refreshments and fireworks

(6) Monday morning (8:00) there will be a gathering at the Louis Riel Statue behind the Legislature from where a procession will leave for the Provincial Law Courts in time for the opening arguments (10:00 a.m.)

(7) The Metis National Council will be staying over in Winnipeg for their Assembly. The MNC will be honouring John Morriseau a recently born again David Chartrand supporter. He's being recognized as one of the Plaintiffs who triggered this case back in 1981. Nothing about Yvon Dumont's who was also involved!

(8) It's now 1:00 p.m. all's quiet - zzzzzzzzzz. Yikes! David Alert! David Alert! He just left the NCI Studio and was spotted heading back to the Winnipeg Region's Annual General Meeting. Quick guys get all those resolutions/motions passed before he returns to take over!

Friday, March 24, 2006

Stay away from my computer Mr. Murray N. Trachtenberg!

Tansi/Good Day Readers:

Murray Trachtenberg is constantly monitoring this site as he no doubt also does cybersmokesignals.com, derrylsanderson.blogspot.com, randydelaronde.blogspot.com, dustmybroom.com and metisvoices.com so he'll be sure to see the posting. So I say to you Mr. Trachtenberg, I do not want you communicating with me via e-mail until or until you can guarantee your system is virus free! If you must deliver you can bloody well use Canada Post! My decision is based on the following information from CyberSmokeSignals' Webmaster and Co-defendant Terry Belhumeur.

Sincerely,
Clare L. Pieuk
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
From: "Oakhammock101" oakhammock101@yahoo.ca
To: "Clare Pieuk" pieuk@shaw.ca
Sent: March 23, 2006 6:30 PM
Subject: Re: Virus

POSNER & TRACHTENBERG
Barristers, Solicitors & Notaries Public
Winnipeg, MB R3B 2E4

Gerald S. Posner
Manitoba & Ontario Bars

Murray N. Trachtenberg
B.A., LL.B.
Direct Line: (204) 940-9602
e-mail: mtrachtenberg@ptlaw.mb.ca

March 23, 2006

Court of Queen's Bench
Law Courts Building
Room 226 - 408 York Avenue
Winnipeg, Manitoba R3C 0P9

Attention: Honourable Master Sharp

Dear Master Sharp:

Re: Manitoba Metis Federation Inc. et al vs. Terry Belhumeur et al

Queen's Bench File No. CI-01-41955
My File No. 2003-20

We appeared before your Honor on February 13, 2006 on the motions made by the defendant Pieuk. Thereafter, Mr. Niederhoffer and I agreed on the form of Order.

On February 22, 2006, I signed the Order in duplicate and forwarded same to Mr. Belhumeur for signature (copy of my letter to him enclosed). On March 2, 2006, I sent an email to Mr. Belhumeur (copy enclosed) requesting that he sign the Order and return the copies to Mr. Niederhoffer.

Enclosed please find a copy of Mr. Niederhoffer's email to me of March 22, 2006 confirming that although he has attempted to contact Mr. Belhumeur to obtain the documents, he has been unable to do so.

Murray Trachtenberg
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
From: "Terry Belhumeur" <oakhammock101@yahoo.ca>
To: "Clare Pieuk" pieuk@shaw.ca
Subject: Computer Virus From MT

March 23, 2006

Mr. Trachtenberg:

I am sending this e-mail back to you since it did contain a virus which is stated in this message. I do not appreciate you attempting to contaminate my computer and will be sending a hard copy to this message to Master Sharp.

On another note, I did send the signed hard copy of the papers your sent me to Jeff. He has changed his place of employ and perhaps he is just slow at picking them up. In any event, I do request a service of any Court papers that go out from your Office involving this case.

Terry Belhumeur

Thursday, March 23, 2006

Quote of the year - Touche!

Tansi/Good Day Folks:

A special thank you to the person who anonymously sent the following comment to derrylsanderson.blogspot.com. Then there's the other case of a prominent Manitoba Metis leader being sued by Mr. Murray N. Trachtenberg on behalf of his clients. Wonder how much that's costing? Ca-Ching! Ca-Ching! Ca-Ching!

Sincerely,
Clare L. Pieuk
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
anonymous said...

Anybody remember this quote from the Winnipeg Free Press dated October 20 ,2004:

"The Metis President was harshly critical of Dumont for taking the Federation to court. Legal costs could amount to about $50,000 which Chartrand said could have been better spent helping people."

When I read this article I could not help but feel contempt for a two faced leader who criticizes others, then goes and spends over $100,000 of your money suing his own members. How can anybody possibly have confidence in this person or his Board of Directors?

Urgent! Please help me find my sister Janelle missing from Carnduff, Saskatchewan!

Hello, my name is Melissa Woloshyn. My sister Janelle has disappeared and we don't know what has happened. She is:

15 years old
5' 9" around 130-140 lbs
Wears glasses/contacts
Blonde chin length hair
Blue eyes
Scar under her chin
Nose pierced

She was last seen (we think) wearing a black hoodie, jeans along with a blue school bag and black Point Zero Purse. We are worried sick, miss her very much and are unsure of what kind of danger she could be in. So please send this to as many people as you can. I beg you to help me find my sister. Janelle was last seen with 3 men in a red/wine 2000 Grand Am license 101-EPM.

Please if anyone has any information on her whereabouts call me at (306) 482-3269 or 7842. Alternatively, e-mail meliscious1@hotmail.com or notify the Carnduff RCMP Detatchment at (306) 482-4400. Do not delete this message - pass it along.

Thank You,
Melissa Woloshyn And Family
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
You are such a sweetheart Melissa - your parents must be so proud. Good Luck little love!

New features!

Tansi/Good Day Readers:

The next election may very well be decided on the internet. When Terry Belhumeur launched www.manitobametisfederation.com (May 6, 2000 - evolved into cybersmokesignals.com as you know it today), other than the Home Office's site it was the province's only Metis specific web page. Now there are at least eight:

derrylsanderson.blogspot.com
randydelaronde.blogspot.com
cybersmokesmokesignals.com
cybersmokesignalscanada.com
cybersmokesignalsinternational.com
dustmybroom.com/metisvoices.com*

The newest kid on the block is www.cybersmokeblog.blogspot.com. Recognizing how important the internet will be, we've started wiring our site. The latest feature can be found on the right-hand side of the main page. Click "Manitoba Legislature" under "EMAIL ADDRESSES - MLAS" to access particulars for your fifty-seven Members:

Name
Constituency
Party Affiliation
Telephone Number
Facsimile
E-mail Address
Surface Mail

Also, if you click on the world map (right side) which updates every twenty-four hours, you'll notice since yesterday we've added visitors from Mexico, South America, India and now mainland China. As many of you know, the Chinese government attempts to monitor and control what their people read on the internet. However, much like the current MMF leadership and their Chief Litigator Mr. Murray N. Trachtenberg are quickly finding out, you can't control a global communications network.

But it just keeps getting better. Within the past couple days we've registered with what's called the "Blog Flux Directory." Find the retangular orange and blue icon ("BF MAPSTATS" - lower right). Click on it to get more information about the location of our visitors. Hi: Selkirk; Brandon; Santa Clara, California; Richmond, Virgina; London, Onatrio (Probably my brother-in-law/sister!); New York, New Your; etc., etc., etc. The software is jam packed with features - I'm still playing with it.

In the days and weeks ahead, we'll be providing you with other key electronic linkages in preparation for the next Federation election.

Sincerely,
Clare L. Pieuk

* Alberta based with extensive Manitoba coverage

Wednesday, March 22, 2006

The world premiere of "The MurrayGate Tapes!" - Part III. Good use of our taxpayer dollars? Not! Ca-Ching! Ca-Ching! Ca-Ching!

71. Q: No. I am asking you if you understand. It's not a trick question, Mr. Pieuk.

A: Of course not.

72. Q: The Motion was brought so that the court would grant permission for Mr. Niederhoffer to withdraw as solicitor of record. That's what the Notice of Motion says. And your Motion hasn't been heard yet, has it?

Mr. Niederhoffer: If I can interject. This is not an objection but he is a layman and I'm not sure he would understand the court process.

Mr. Trachtenberg: I just want him to tell me if he understands that the Motion is brought because you are solicitor of record for this person or persons.

By Mr. Trachtenberg:

73. Q: Do you understand that?

The Witness: Are you the solicitor of record for metis_mom@hotmail.com?

By Mr. Trachtenberg:

74. Q: Are you saying you don't know if he is or not today? Don't ask him, just answer my question. Do you understand he is or is not?

A: My understanding is that he is not.

75. Q: He is not. So why is this Motion being brought?

A: Well, didn't Mr. Niederhoffer attempt to withdraw as counsel for metis_mom@hotmail.com?

76. Q: There is a Motion before the court for that. That's what you swore your affidavit in support of.

A: You'll have to excuse me, Mr. Trachtenberg if my memory isn't 100 per cent accurate because there have been well over 60 court documents filed in this case. So sometimes it's hard keeping track.

77. Q: Let me show you the Notice of Motion. Do you want to see that? Would that assist you?

A: It may.

78. Q: Here it is. The Notice of Motion, uncontested Notice of Motion filed by your counsel. It's dated August 26, 2005 page 2 where it says what the Motion is for. And I'm showing you number 1. And there is a reference to Mr. Niederhoffer being the solicitor of record for the person or persons as metis_mom." An Order that Jeffrey J. Niederhoffer be granted permission to withdraw as solicitor of record for the defendants Terry Belhumeur and the person or persons using the e-mail address metis_mom@hotmail.com."

79. Q: Right. So you understand that this Motion is asking the court for permission as set out in the paragraph you just read.

A: That's right. That's what it says.

80. Q: Right. And in support of that, all those affidavits that we identified earlier have been filed, including your affidavit, correct?

A: To the best of my knowledge, yes.

81. Q: Okay, all right.

A: Although didn't we go to a hearing on November 9th, was it, where six documents couldn't be found, had been temporarily misplaced in the court system?

82. Q: That was an earlier one and those documents were found and they were the affidavits including yours, Mr. Charette's, Mr. Dumont's that we identified, parts of which have now been struck out by Master Cooper. Remember that? You were in the courtroom.

A: Yes, I remember six documents.

83. Q: Yes.

A: There was an adjournment because they had temporarily been misplaced.

84. Q: That was before Master Ring at an earlier date, Sir.

A: That could be. There's been so much filed in this case by counsel for the plaintiffs that I have trouble keeping up with it at times.

85. Q: Well, so be it. But I think we've got your evidence now. Your Motion that we're dealing with here deals with several things, and we've gone over it at the start of the cross-examination. We've just gone over one of them again. That is the request that you are making for Mr. Niederhoffer be allowed to withdraw as solicitor of record for the person or persons at metis_mom@hotmail.com correct?

A: Correct.

86. Q: All right, good. Now you identified for me the person using this hotmail address metis_mom@hotmail.com. Would you confirm for me that your co-defendant Mr. Belhumeur, he has been aware since January 28, 2004, maybe even at an earlier date, but certainly that date, he is aware that person acting as a petition coordinator using the e-mail address metis_mom@hotmail.com was in fact the lady you've already just identified a moment ago, Ms Vanessa Everton; is that correct?

Mr. Niederhoffer: I object. What Mr. Belhumeur knows is not part of this cross-examination.

Mr. Trachtenberg: Sure it is.

Mr. Niederhoffer: It's simply in relation to Mr. Pieuk's affidavit and what he knows.

By Mr. Trachtenberg:

87. Q: You refuse to answer? Your counsel is nodding to you so you should say yes.

88. Q: Okay. At one point, you posted on cybersmokesignals an article indicating that the only way you and Mr. Belhumeur would provide the identity of metis_mom@hotmail.com would be if the court ordered you to do so. Do you remember doing that?

A: Our website has been online since - well, it first came on May 6, 2000. and during that time, we have had literally thousands of postings. So honestly I can't remember.

89. Q: Let me see if I can assist you. I'm showing you two pages with dates from April 15th, April 16th, 2005. Are you able to identify these articles as they appear on these two pages as articles that appeared on cybersmokesignals.com on or about those dates, Sir?

A: It certainly appears to be someone has downloaded directly from our website.

Mr. Trachtenberg: Let's mark this then, please, as the next Exhibit.

(Exhibit 5: Articles that appeared on cybersmokesignals.com April 15, 2005 and April 16, 2005).

By Mr. Trachtenberg:

90. Q: Now if you turn to page 2 of Exhibit 5, Sir, at the top, "Dear Wondering," and then there's a paragraph that concludes, "this is the only way we would provide such." Am I correct that's a response to the inquiry from this person using the e-mail or name "Wondering Metis" that appears right above that, correct?

A: Correct. It should also be placed on the record when we made that statement -

91. Q: Well, I haven't asked you about the statement, I just asked you if that's the response.

A: It clearly states that we have no legal training.

92. Q: I understand that. But this response under "Dear Wondering" down to the words "provides such" that we just identified, that's a response that - firstly, is it you, Sir, who prepared that, and then posted it?

A: The "Dear Wondering?"

93. Q: Yes. The response that starts off, "Neither Terry Belhumeur nor I," and concludes with the words "provides such," that paragraph?

A: It's a response to "Wondering Metis."

94. Q: Right. It's a response that you drafted and you posted on the website?

A: Correct.

95. Q: Correct, good, thank you.

A: You're welcome.

96. Q: I'm showing you again the Notice of Cross-Examination, Sir. And in paragraph 7, this made reference to copies of all written communications including but not limited to e-mails, letters, faxes between yourself and/or cybersmokesignals.com and the person or persons using the e-mail address metis_mom@hotmail.com as at January 29, 2004 with respect to Jeffrey J. Niederhoffer acting as counsel of record for such person or persons in this action and with respect to your Motion seeking permission for Jeffrey J. Niederhoffer to withdraw as solicitor of record for such person or persons. And you've indicated that no such materials have ever existed, correct?

A: Correct.

97. Q: Have you had any verbal communications with Ms Everton with respect to Mr. Niederhoffer withdrawing as solicitor of record?

A: No, Sir.

98. Q: Let me show you four pages starting with the date Friday, November 11, 2005. And I'm wondering if you are able to confirm that these four pages refer to or reflect postings on the cybersmokesignals.com website as at that date?

A: On cursory examination, it certainly looks like someone has downloaded directly from cybersmokesignals.com this material.

Mr. Trachtenberg: Okay. Let's mark that as the next Exhibit, please.

(Exhibit 6: Four pages of postings on the cybersmokesignals.com website dated November 11, 2005)

99. Q: Now if you want to just keep that in front of you, Sir, what we've marked as Exhibit 6.

A: And Exhibit 6 is this document before me?

100. Q: That's right. Here, you can have the original marked Exhibit 6.

A: Thank you.

Stay tuned for riveting Part IV of "The MurrayGate Tapes!" coming to a website near you. Watch as the Plaintiffs allow Murray to burn more taxpayer dollars which could be put to much better use improving your people's housing, health care, youth opportunities and employment creation!

Yet another affidavit from Oliver Boulette - good use of our taxpayer dollars?

Posner & Trachtenberg
Barristers, Solicitors & Notaries Public
710-491 Portage Avenue
Winnipeg, MB R3B 2E4

Gerald S. Posner
Manitoba & Ontario Bars

Murray N. Trachtenberg
B.A., LL.B.
Direct Line: (204) 940-9602
e-mail: mtrachtenberg@ptlaw.mb.ca

March 21, 2006

Mr. Clare L. Pieuk
2 - 371 Des Meurons Street
Winnipeg, Manitoba
R2H 2N6

Re: MMF et al vs. Clare L. Pieuk et al Queen's Bench File No. CI 05-01-41955
My File No. 2003-20

Enclosed please find a copy of the affidavit of Oliver Boulette sworn March 21, 2006 which is being filed with the Court.

Yours Truly,
(Signature - Unintelligible)
MURRAY N. TRACHTENBERG
MNT/lec
Enc.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
File No. CI 05-01-41955
The Queen's Bench
Winnipeg Centre

Between:

Manitoba Metis Federation Inc., Anita Campbell, David Chartrand, Elbert Chartrand, Rita Cullen, Richard DeLaRonde, Darrel Deslauriers, Jean Desrosiers, William Flett, John Fleury, Laura Hyrich, Julyda Lagimodiere, Joyce Langan, Leah LaPlante, Judy Mayer, Bonnie McIntyre, Rosemarie McPherson, Darryl Montgomery, Marilee Nault, Jack Park, Claire Riddle and Denise Thomas

Planitiffs

- and -

Terry Belhumeur, Clare L. Pieuk and the person or persons using the email address metis_mom@hotmail.com

Defendants
____________________________________________________________
Affidavit Of Oliver Boulette Sworn The 21st Day Of March, 2006
Hearing Date: Thursday March 30th, 2006 At 10:00 A.M.
Before The Presiding Judge
____________________________________________________________

Posner & Trachtenberg
Barristers, Solicitors and Notaries Public
Suite 710 - 491 Portage Avenue
Winnipeg, Manitoba
R3B 2E4

Murray N. Trachtenberg
Phone No. (204) 940-9602
Fax No. (204) 944-8878
File No. 2003-20

AFFIDAVIT OF OLIVER BOULETTE

I, Oliver Boulette, of the City of Winnipeg, in the Province of Manitoba, Executive Director, MAKE OATH AND SAY THAT:

1. I am the Executive Director of the Manitoba Metis Federation Inc. ("MMF") and as such have personal knowledge of the matters hereinafter deposed to by me save and except where same are stated to be based upon information and belief in which case I do verily believe same to be true.

2. I am informed by Murray Trachtenberg, counsel for the plaintiffs and do verily believe that according to information posted on cybersmokesignals.com, the defendant Clare L. Pieuk no longer serves as web master for that internet site.

3. I am further informed by Murray Trachtenberg and do verily believe that Mr. Pieuk now operates an internet site known as CyberSmokeBlog.blogsopt.com.

4. Attached hereto and marked as Exhibit "A" to this my affidavit is a copy of a posting from CyberSmokeBlog.com printed on March 10, 2006.

5. Attached hereto and marked as Exhibit "B" to this my affidavit is a copy of a posting from CyberSmokeBlog.blogspot.com parinted on March 20, 2006.

SWORN BEFORE ME at)
the City of Winnipeg, in the)
Province of Manitoba, this)
21 day of March, 2006.)

Signature (Unintelligible)
____________________
A Commissioner for Oaths in and
for the Province of Manitoba.
My commission expires 2007/05/24

Signature (Unintelligible)
____________________
OLIVER BOULETTE

Please Note: There are several issues associated with this affidavit:

(1) Richard DeLaRonde and Bonnie McIntyre are once again listed as Plaintiffs even though several weeks ago Counselor Trachtenberg sent my then attorney Mr. Jeff Niederhoffer a Notice of Discontinuance which, in fact, removed them as litigants. It would appear Queen's Bench Rules no longer apply

(2) Item 4 of Mr. Boulette's affidavit states, "Attached hereto and marked as Exhibit "A" to this my affidavit is a copy of a posting from CyberSmokeBlog.blogspot.com printed on March 10, 2006." Problem is, Exhibit "A" contains three postings - one from March 10 and two for March 9, 2006

(3) Item 5 of Mr. Boulette's affidavit states, "Attached hereto and marked as Exhibit "B" to this my affidavit is a copy of a posting from CyberSmokeBlog.blogspot.com printed on March 20, 2006." Once again, Exhibit "B" shows a March 15 and March 16, 2006 posting from
CyberSmokeBlog but nothing dated March 20, 2006

(4) To date a truly amazing ninety-one (91!) documents (the vast preponderance by Counselor Trachtenberg) have been filed with the Court in this case which is nowhere near trial ready

(5) Because of the aforementioned errors and inaccuracies, on March 30, 2006 I will be asking the Master to throw out Mr. Boulette's sworn affidavit of March 21, 2006

Tuesday, March 21, 2006

What's that about?

Dear Webmaster:

I was just reading the March 21, 2006 posting on www.CyberSmokeSignals.com. Reference was made to another Manitoba case of a Metis suing a Metis. Federation lawyer Murray Trachtenberg was also mentioned. Do you know what that's about? Love your new site!

MMF Member - Flin Flon, Manitoba
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dear Flin Flon Member:

Thank you. Not wishing to steal Webmaster Terry Bellhumeur's thunder, here's a subtle hint. Go to www.jus.gov.mb.ca. At the upper left side of the main page is the title, "Court Registry System." Click on the second link ("File Number Search") and enter "CI05-01-42919). Press "Search."

Now tell us what you see? That would be our educated guess.

Sincerely,
Clare L. Pieuk

Monday, March 20, 2006

We're getting ready for the next MMF election - go ahead "click" make our day!

Tansi/Good Day Folks:

If you scroll down the right-hand side of our main page you'll see the heading, "Email Addresses - Federal." That's where we're building a repository of electronic links from where you'll be able to directly contact Manitoba's Members of Parliament and soon all MLAs. After that it will be the province's rural newspapers then God only knows what else!

Go ahead, make our day contact your elected provincial/federal representatives - let them know what you think of the MMF's silly, frivolous taxpayer funded lawsuit against CyberSmokeSignals.com.

Sincerely,
Clare L. Pieuk

Coming tomorrow - the exciting world premiere of "The MurrayGate Tapes!" - Part III

Tansi/Good Day Readers:

Just a reminder tomorrow we'll be publishing Part III of MMF lawyer Murray Trachtenberg's January 24, 2006 cross-examination of me. As you read it ask yourself, "If this the best use of our public money?"

Sincerely,
Clare L. Pieuk

More jigging!

----- Original Message -----
From: Clare Pieuk
Date: March 20, 2006 1:36 PM
To: Murray Trachtenberg
Cc: Louise Coulombe
Subject: Re Your March 30, 2006 Notice Hearing

Monday March 20, 2006

Mr. Murray N. Trachtenberg
Posner & Trachtenberg
Barristers, Solicitors & Notaries Public
710-491 Portage Avenue
Winnipeg, MB R3B 2E4
mtrachtenberg@ptlaw.mb.ca

Dear Mr. Trachtenberg:

Thank you for your reply albeit short and polite.

Respectfully,
Clare L. Pieuk

Electronic Copy:
www.cybersmokeblog.blogspot.com
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
----- Original Message -----
From: Murray Trachtenberg
To: Clare Pieuk
Sent: Monday, March 20, 2006 8:12 AM
Subject: Re: Your March 30, 2006 Motion Hearing

My instructions are to oppose any request for an adjournment.

MNT//

"Dancing with Murray and the plaintiffs!" - An intimate, fascinating behind the scenes look!

Tansi/Good Day Folks:

As you can see, we're starting a new series. It is our belief you have every expectation and right to know how the MMF Leadership, Plaintiffs and their Counsel are spending OUR public money to sue www.CyberSmokeSignals.com. Much like Nancy Grace on CNN, I'll be your regular courtroom reporter for this case.

Sincerely,
Clare L. Pieuk
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
----- Original Message -----
From: Murray Trachtenberg
To: Clare Pieuk
Sent: Monday, March 20, 2006 8:12 AM
Subject: Re: Your March 30, 2006 Motion Hearing

My instructions are to oppose any request for an adjournment.

MNT//

---------------------------------------------------------------------------
----- Original Message -----
From: Clare Pieuk
To: Murray Trachtenberg
Sent: Saturday, March 18, 2006 12:26 PM
Subject: Your March 30, 2006 Motion Hearing
Friday March 17, 2006

Mr. Murray N. Trachtenberg
Posner & Trachtenberg
Barristers, Solicitors & Notaries Public
710-491 Portage Avenue
Winnipeg, MB
Fax: (204) 944-8878
Direct Line: (204) 940-9602
E-mail: mtrachtenberg@ptlaw.mb.ca

Dear Mr. Trachtenberg:

Please be advised on the morning of March 30, 2006 I will attend the Hearing you scheduled before a Master to debate your Motion all Manitoba Metis Federation documents allegedly in my possession be turned over to the Courts.

However, I fully intend to vehemently argue the Master rule I be given a minimum of one month to research and prepare my Motion Brief in response to your document. As you are well aware, Sir, Mr. Niederhoffer has agreed to join Winnipeg law firm Campbell, Marr. Unfortunately, he is not prepared to assist in drafting my Motion Brief. Therefore, I will require an adjournment to:

(1) Research applicable Manitoba Court of Queen's Bench Rules at the University of Manitoba's Faculty of Law Library

(2) Identify relevant case law precedent I can cite in my Motion Brief

(3) Organize and write the final detailed document

As a true gentleman, Sir, given your deep respect for our judicial system and its procedures, coupled with the profound sense of fair play, equity and honour you obviously possess, I'm sure you will agree with my request for an adjournment. However, should you still insist on moving forward on March 30, 2006 I fully intend to press my case for a postponement before the presiding Master. I feel most confident they will see the reasonableness of my request.

I would also point out Mr. Trachtenberg, your Motion was filed approximately five months ago. For reasons known only to you, now you are insisting it be heard yesterday. If it is so critical to your case why have you delayed so long?

Please understand Mr. Trachtenberg while you are paid at least $250/hour by the MMF and can, therefore, devote unlimited time and resources to the file, I must work to earn a living while taking on this added responsibility.

Please govern yourself accordingly.

Respectfully,
Clare L. Pieuk
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Exhibit A
----- Original Message -----
From: Murray Trachtenberg
To: CLARE PIEUK
Cc: Jeffrey J. Niederhoffer
Sent: Wednesday, March 15, 2006 6:05 AM
Subject: MMF et al v. Belhumeur et al
Attention: Clare L. Pieuk
cc. J. Neiderhoffer

This is in response to your email sent to me yesterday evening.

I have today sent you a copy of my email to Mr. Niederhoffer dealing with the form of your Notice of Intention to Act in Person. It does not comply with the requirements of the Queen's Bench Rules and I ask that you serve me with a proper Notice of Intention to Act in Person forthwith.

With regard to your adjournment request, I am not prepared to agree.

While it is not my position to give you any advice in this matter, I do draw to both your attention and that of Mr. Niederhoffer the provision of the Law Society of Manitoba Practice Direction 88 - 02 entitled "Enforcement of Solicitors' Liens." That Practice Direction makes reference in turn to the Code of Professional Conduct. In part, it states -

"The Code of Professional Conduct places an ethical limitation on this right (solicitor lien) ... which provides that generally speaking a lawyer should not enforce his lien if the result would be to materially prejudice the client's position in any uncompleted matter."

The present action is uncompleted and a motion is pending to be heard on March 30, 2006. Mr. Niederhoffer may wish to consider whether in fact he is in a position to enforce his lien and you may wish to take advice as you see fit.

You are contesting the motion. To date, you have filed no material in opposition. My clients have had to wait over a month just to get the March 30, 2006 date. They are not prepared to grant you an adjournment of "a minimum of at least one month" or any other amount of time.

Finally, Mr. Niederhoffer has agreed to the form of the Orders to be issued by Master Lee. Whether you have served a Notice of Intention to Act in Person or not, those Orders were sent to him for signature prior to you dropping the document off yesterday and I fully expect that he will sign same and submit them to the Court forthwith.

Yours truly,
MNT/
-----------------------------------
Exhibit B
----- Original Message -----
From: Murray Trachtenberg
To: Jeffrey J. Niederhoffer
Cc: CLARE PIEUK
Sent: Wednesday, March 15, 2006 9:01 AM
Subject: Fw:MMF et al v. Belhumeur
Subject: MMF et al v. Belhumeur et al
Attention: Jeffrey J. Niederhoffer
Attention: Clare L. Pieuk

Mr. Pieuk attended at my office on March 14, 2006 and left a Notice of Intention to Act in Person with my assistant.

I draw your attention to Queen's Bench Rule 15.02(3). A Notice of Intention to Act in Person must provide the address for service and telephone number of the party acting in person.

The document prepared and served by Mr. Pieuk does not satisfy this requirement.

I am requesting that Mr.Pieuk himself serve an appropriate Notice of Intention to Act in Person forthwith.

Yours truly,
MNT/
-----------------------------------
Exhibit C
----- Original Message -----
From: "Jeffrey J. Niederhoffer" <jjn@luk-law.com>
To: "Murray Trachtenberg" <mtrachtenberg@ptlaw.mb.ca>; "Clare L. Pieuk" <pieuk@shaw.ca>
Sent: Thursday, March 16, 2006 5:39 PM
Subject: Re: MMF et al. v. Belhumeur et al./Adjournment Request

March 16, 2006
Posner & TrachtenbergBarristers, Solicitors & Notaries Public
710-491 Portage AvenueWinnipeg, MB
R3B 2E4

Attention: Murray N. Trachtenberg
VIA EMAIL

Dear Sirs: Re: MMF et al v. Belhumeur et al / CI 05-01-41955

Further to the above-captioned matter, to your two emails to the writer of March 15, 2006, and to the email of March 14, 2006 sent by Mr. Pieuk to you, which was forwarded to me by you in an email of even date, the writer is in a position to confirm that he has spoken with Mr. Pieuk to clarify certain matters, among them:

(1) Mr. Pieuk has advised the writer that he has hand-delivered to your office an amended Notice of Intention to Act in Person, which he has served on the writer and further advises that, on even date, he has filed same with the court and served same on Mr. Belhumeur via postal delivery

(2) The writer has no comment in terms of the request made of you by Mr. Pieuk in relation to an adjournment of the motion hearing currently set for March 30, 2005. In the writer's view, given the uniqueness of the circumstances, the request made by Mr. Pieuk is reasonable and there is little to be lost from the standpoint of the plaintiffs in terms of consenting to an adjournment of said hearing. Nevertheless, said matter is now solely a concern between the plaintiffs and Mr. Pieuk acting on his own behalf

(3) The decision of Mr. Pieuk to act in person for the remainder of the above-captioned action will not affect the willingness of the writer to sign the three orders yet to be filed with the court

(4) Mr. Pieuk has requested that the writer not directly address the content of his aforementioned email to you, but suffice it to say the writer has confirmed with Mr. Pieuk that he has no intention of enforcing a solicitor's lien, ie. withholding from him the writer's file, in relation to those portions of said file which directly relate to the motion of the plaintiffs currently set for March 30, 2006. To both you and to Mr. Pieuk, the writer apologizes if he was initially unclear as to his intentions in his conversations with Mr. Pieuk. It is the understanding of the writer that, even though the file will be turned over to Mr. Pieuk in a timely fashion, Mr. Pieuk has unresolved concerns involving the amount of time that will be available for him to prepare a motion brief for the hearing of the plaintiffs' motion as aforesaid. The writer will leave it to Mr. Pieuk to communicate with you regarding said concerns

(5) Further to the email to Mr. Pieuk to you as aforesaid, it is true that the writer has been offered and has accepted a position with the firm of Campbell Marr, which arrangement will be effective as of March 20, 2006.

At your request, the writer is willing to provide you his contact information at Campbell Marr should you feel the need to contact him for any reason. Although it is premature to provide a definitive confirmation, it appears the writer's email address at Campbell Marr will be jjni@campbellmarr.com.

Yours truly,
Jeffrey J. Niederhoffer
cc: Clare L. Pieuk

Sunday, March 19, 2006

What will they think of next?

Drug Bust Yields Breakfast Of Champions: Pot Tarts, Budtella And Toka-Cola

The National Post
March 18, 2006
Page A3

U.S. federal agents who busted a marijuana ring on Thursday were disturbed to find pot-laced candy and soft drinks potentially tempting to children, officials said. Marijuana-infused treats and beverages were seized during a sereies of raids at indoor pot farms that netted 12 arrests, according to Javier Pena, a special agent with the Drug Enforcement Administration.

Confiscated items reportedly bore labels including Stoney Ranchers, Munchy Way, Rasta Reece's, Buddafingers, Pot Tarts, Double Puff Oreo, Keef Kat, Twixed Budtella, Puff-A-Mint Pattie, Puffsi, Bong's Root Beer and Toka-Cola. "What so many people don't realize is that innocent children will somehow get their hands on these products," Mr. Pena said.

Agence France-Presse

Hope springs eternal!

Dear Webmaster:

In the past whenever I've tried to talk with David Chartrand to tell him what I think of the MMF's ridiculous lawsuit against CyberSmokeSignals.com my messages are never returned. Maybe now an election is just around the corner he'll change. Great website!

MMF Member (Winnipeg)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dear Winnipeg Member:

Hope springs eternal. You can try President Chartrand at dchartra@mmf.mb.ca and his Board of Directors at bdirectr@mmf.mb.ca. Of course there's always Murray Trachtenberg (mtrachtenberg@ptlaw.mb.ca). Thank you and Good Luck!

Sincerely,
Clare L. Pieuk

C-31s and the MMF election!

Tansi/Good Day Readers:

Very interesting article published on CyberSmokeSignals.com (reproduced below). Couple quick points:

(1) It's common knowledge the accuracy of MMF voters lists have been seriously called into question for a long time. Simply go to the Manitoba Appeals Court file regarding Yvon Dumont's 2004 trial challenging the results of the last Federation election (March 26, 2003). There you will find post mortem reports (as required under the bylaws) authored by former Chief Electoral Officer Alvin Hamilton decrying this very fact

(2) While associated with CSS.com, I wrote to then Indian Affairs And Northern Development Canada Minister Andy Scott asking for the names of all Manitoba C-31s registered with his Department. Essentially he replied, "Sorry that's privileged information you'll have to make application using the federal government's Access To Information Act. And one more thing - Good Luck!" So this initiative was never pursued

(3) There are reportedly something in the order of 270 plus C-31s living in the Duck Bay Federation's polling district. However, this time around it should be different. Sources tell us Yvon Dumont supporters have obtained a membership list from the Pine Creek First Nations (A stone's throw down the road from Duck Bay!) Band Council. It will now be possible to cross-reference them against the voters list

(4) BillyjoDeLaRonde, Richard DeLaRonde's uncle, is the Pine Creek First Nations' Chief. If his nephew does run against David Chartrand, he'll likely split the Duck Bay vote down the middle which can only help candidate Dumont

Here's the CyberSmokeSignals.com article.

Sincerely,
Clare L. Pieuk
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Saturday March 18, 2006

A note about being Indian!

It is important to remember that whether or not you are defined as a "status" or "registered" Indian for the purposes of the Indian Act, if you are of Aboriginal descent and identify as an Indian person you are an Indian under the Constitution Act of 1982 - the basic law that determines what the federal and provincial governments can legally do.

Whatever the Indian Act says now or in the future, if you were born of Indian descent and identify yourself as an Indian, you are an Indian. No federal or provincial law can legitimately deny your identity as an Aboriginal person, whether you are an Indian, Metis or Inuit. Also, take a gander at this site: www.gov.mb.ca/ana/apm2000/1/i.html. Read, research, conclude. My conclusion ... Bill C-31s cannot vote in MMF elections.

Sign Me,
Looking For Answers

Corporate lessons - your Sunday smile!

Corporate Lesson 1

A man is getting into the shower just as his wife is finishing up her shower, when the doorbell rings. The wife quickly wraps herself in a towel and runs downstairs. When she opens the door, there stands Bob, the next-door neighbour. Before she says a word, Bob says, "I'll give you $800 to drop that towel." After thinking for a moment, the woman drops her towel and stands naked in front of Bob. After a few seconds, Bob hands her $800 and leaves. The woman wraps back up in the towel and goes upstairs.

When she gets to the bathroom, her husband asks, "Who was that?" "It was Bob the next door neighbor," she replies. "Great!" the husband says, "did he say anything about the $800 he owes me?"

Moral of the story: If you share critical information pertaining to credit and risk with your shareholders in time, you may be in a position to prevent avoidable exposure.

Corporate Lesson 2

A priest offered a lift to a Nun. She got in and crossed her legs, forcing her gown to reveal a leg. The priest nearly had an accident. After controlling the car, he stealthily slid his hand up her leg. The nun said, "Father, remember Psalm 129?" The priest removed his hand. But, changing gears, he let it slide up her leg again. The nun once again said, "Father, remember Psalm 129?" The priest apologized. "Sorry, sister but the flesh is weak."

Arriving at the convent, the nun went on her way. On his arrival at the church, the priest rushed to look up Psalm 129. It said, "Go forth and seek, further up, you will find glory."

Moral of the story: If you are not well informed in your job, you might miss a great opportunity.

Corporate Lesson 3

A sales representative, an administration clerk and the manager are walking to lunch when they find an antique oil lamp. They rub it and a Genie comes out. The Genie says, "I'll give each of you just one wish." "Me first! Me first!" says the admin clerk. "I want to be in the Bahamas, driving a speedboat, without a care in the world." Poof! She's gone.

"Me next! Me next!" says the sales rep. "I want to be in Hawaii, relaxing on the beach with my personal masseuse, an endless supply of Pina Coladas and the love of my life." Poof! He's gone.

"OK, you're up," the Genie says to the manager. The manager says, "I want those two back in the office after lunch."

Moral of the story: Always let your boss have the first say.

Corporate Lesson 4

A crow was sitting on a tree, doing nothing all day. A rabbit asked him, "Can I also sit like you and do nothing all day long?" The crow answered: "Sure, why not." So, the rabbit sat on the ground below the crow, and rested. A fox jumped on the rabbit and ate it.

Moral of the story: To be sitting and doing nothing, you must be sitting very high up.

Corporate Lesson 5

A turkey was chatting with a bull. "I would love to be able to get to the top of that tree, sighed the turkey, but I haven't got the energy." "Well, why don't you nibble on my droppings?" replied the bull. "They're packed with nutrients." The turkey pecked at a lump of dung and found that it gave him enough strength to reach the lowest branch of the tree. The next day, after eating some more dung, he reached the second branch. Finally after a fourth night, there he was proudly perched at the top of the tree. Soon he was spotted by a farmer, who shot the turkey out of the tree.

Moral of the story: Bullshit might get you to the top, but it won't keep you there.

Vote Judith!

Agree with our reader's comment - I too have had several dealings with Judith. She's a very principled, high energy lady with a platinum value system which will stand her in very good stead. The Riverton & District Friendship Centre's loss will be the Gimli Municipal Council's gain. But then again, the R&DFC's Board of Directors has a history of not being able to retain talented individuals.

Sincerely,
Clare L. Pieuk

Saturday, March 18, 2006

You go girl!

Cameron First Out Of The Gate For Gimli Fall Election
By John Coward
The Interlake Spectator
Friday March 3, 2006

Cameron: Focusses On planning And Policy Development.

Interlake Spectator — With municipal elections just seven months away Judith Cameron feels it’s never too early to begin getting her message out in a bid to capture one of four Gimli Council seats that will be up for grabs in the fall. Cameron, along with her husband Scott and three children, Michael, Daniel and Katie, chose Gimli as their home when Scott, an Air Force Reservist, was transferred from Yellowknife more than five years ago. Since her arrival, Cameron has been actively involved with the Interlake Women’s Resource Centre at the Board level and is currently on a Committee looking to build a spray pool at Gimli Park.

A strong believer in transparency, Cameron feels the current Council has been less than upfront on many of the issues that have arisen over the last few years.“ I object to the many in-camera sessions that take place with this Council. We’re not getting the whole picture,” she said. Cameron says her interest in policy development and governance comes from her background in human resource administration and her experience dealing with people.

“This Council seems to be in reaction mode,” Cameron said, referring to a lack of long-term planning and policy development. Cameron cites the on-going sewage issue as an example of Council’s lack of long-term planning.“ We’ve had a lot of forewarning of the sewage problems but we haven’t dealt with them,” she said. The issues in the Fall election, Cameron feels, will revolve around open and transparent governance, leadership, strategic planning and community involvement.

Friday, March 17, 2006

An Irish Tale!

Taking a wee break from the golf circuit, Tiger Woods drove his new Ford Excursion into an Irish gas station. An attendant greeted him in typical Irish manner, unaware who the golf pro was. "Top of the mornin' to ya!" the Irishman smiled, doffing his cap. As Tiger got out of the mammoth vehicle, two tees fell out of his pocket.

"So what are those, lad?" asked the attendant. They're called tees," replied Tiger."And what would ya be usin' em for, now?" inquired the Irishman. "Well, they are for resting my balls on when I drive,"said Tiger. "AW! Jaysus, Mary an' Joseph," exclaimed the Irish attendant. "Those fellas at FORD think of everything!"

Thursday, March 16, 2006

Mornin' everyone from our global headquarters in Winnipeg, Manitoba - Canada!

Tansi/Good Day Folks:

If you click on the map (right-hand side, main page) you'll notice we've added more readers in Australia, Europe and especially along the Eastern United States. Soon the world will know of the MMF's beyond asinine lawsuit against CyberSmokeSignals.com - wonder whose brilliant idea that was? What the hell were they thinking at the time or were they? The identities of each Plaintiff, David Chartrand and Counselor Murray N. ("Unhappy!") Trachtenberg will soon be household names in the global village. I'm starting to appreciate how the President must feel when he power trips at 150 Henry Avenue. Problem for him is we're now international - everybody is watching!

Sincerely,
Clare L. Pieuk

Executive Director Position

Dear Webmaster:

Would you please post the following information. We appreciate your help in getting this message out.

Thank You,
Judith Cameron
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IALA Executive Director

The Interlake Adult Learning Association Inc. a non-profit organization seeks an Executive Director to oversee the management and administration of IALA programs and services. Candidates must possess:

  • Knowledge of Adult, Family, ESL, workplace literacy programs, practices, delivery methods and assessment tools
  • Sound financial management skills and experience with budgets, fund development, proposal writing and reporting processes also required

Other selection criteria include:

  • The ability to assess programs, services, proposals, instructor skills and delivery methods
  • The ability to network and work effectively with various government level representatives, community groups, learners, volunteers, staff and non-profit Boards
  • Strong time management and organizational skills
  • Flexibility and adaptability
  • Superior communication skills, both oral and written with high level computer proficiency
  • A strong passion and vision for the ideals of the organization and
  • A post-secondary degree in a related discipline or a combination of experience and education

Start Date: September 1, 2006

Salary is commensurate with experience and funding availability. Please submit resume with a cover letter and salary expectations to:

Personnel Committee
Box 434, Gimli MB R0C 1B0
(204) 642-9648
E-mail: camfam5@mts.net; Fax: (204) 642-5680

Deadline for applications: March 24, 2006

Wednesday, March 15, 2006

The Chief Electoral Officer?

Tansi/Good Day Readers:

We may know who the next CEO will be, however, we're not going to publish their name until we have confirmation. Rest assured our sources are working on it.

Sincerely,
Clare L. Pieuk

Coming soon - "The Rogues Gallery!"

Tansi/Good Day Folks:

Shortly we will permanently display at the top of our main page the photographs and names of each Plaintiff in the MMF's defamation lawsuit against CyberSmokeSignals along with that of their Counsel Murray Trachtenberg. With an election coming soon, we think it's time all voters knew what they looked like so you can ask them the tough questions during the campaign before casting your ballot:

  • How much is this litigation costing? If they don't know, why?
  • From which program(s) is the money being taken?
  • How were each of the plaintiffs personally defamed/injured?
  • Why aren't they paying for their own lawyer(s)?
  • Is this the best use of your Metis public money?
  • Etc.

We're sure you can come up with several more queries.

Sincerely, Clare L. Pieuk

New feature - we've still mastering the technology!

Tansi/Good Day Readers:

If you scroll down the right-hand side of our main page you will find a new Link called "Important E-mail Addresses." There you see Harper.S@parl.gc.ca. Go ahead click on - make his day send Prime Minister Harper your thoughts on the MMF's defamation lawsuit against CyberSmokeSignals.com, as well as, any other Metis issues of concern to you.

Shortly we will be adding many, many more direct e-mail links - every Manitoba Member of Parliament, your MLAs, etc., etc., etc. With a Federation election looming on the horizon, we thought what better way to perfect our technique than by starting with the Prime Minister. Now that we've succeeded the sky's the limit.

Sincerely,
Clare L. Pieuk

Tuesday, March 14, 2006

For the record - what was said!

Tansi/Good Day Readers:

Below is an affidavit sworn on January 23, 2006 by Lionel Chartrand. At the time, it was posted on CyberSmokeSignals.com. I would particularly draw your attention to Paragraph 3 of Mr. Chartrand's document.
For the first time on the internet, I am publishing my sworn affidavit of February 7, 2006 along with its e-mail attachments. They speak for themselves - you be the judge.

Sincerely,
Clare L. Pieuk
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File No. CI 05-01-41955
The Queen's Bench
Winnipeg Centre

Between:

Manitoba Metis Federation Inc., Anita Campbell, David Chartrand, Elbert Chartrand, Rita Cullen, Richard DeLaRonde, Darrel Deslauriers, Jean Desrosiers, William Flett, John Fleury, Laura Hyrich, Julyda Lagimodiere, Joyce Langan, Leah LaPlante, Judy Mayer, Bonnie McIntyre, Rosemarie McPherson, Derryl Montgonery, Marilee Nault, Jack Park, Claire Riddle and Denise Thomas

Plaintiffs

- and -

Terry Belhumeur, Clare L. Pieuk and the person or persons using the email address metis_mom@hotmail.com

Defendants
_______________________________________________________
Affidavit Of Lionel Richard Robert Chartrand
Sworn The 23rd Day Of January, 2006
_______________________________________________________

Posner & Trachtenberg
Barristers, Solicitors and Notaries Public
Suite 710 - 491 Portage Avenue
Winnipeg Manitoba
R3B 2E4

Murray N. Trachtenberg
Phone No. (204) 940-9602
Fax No. (204) 944-8878
File No. 2003-20

Affidavit Of LIONEL RICHARD CHARTRAND, of the City of Winnipeg, in the Province of Manitoba MAKE OATH AND SAY THAT:

1. I am a lawyer practicing in the City of Winnipeg in the Province of Manitoba and as such have personal knowledge of the matters hereinafter deposed to by me.

2. I have read paragraph 4 of the Affidavit of Clare L. Pieuk sworn September 9, 2005 and filed in this matter.

3. I did provide legal advice and drafting assistance to Mr. Pieuk and the website CyberSmokeSignals.com for a period of time prior to February 12, 2004. On or about February, 2004 I notified Mr. Pieuk and CyberSmokeSignals that I would no longer act as counsel to them in any capacity. I have not acted as counsel to CyberSmokeSignals.com or Clare L. Pieuk since that time.

4. I make this affidavit bona fide.

SWORN BEFORE ME at)
the City of Winnipeg, in the)
Province of Manitoba, this)
23rd day of January, 2006.)

(Signature)
__________________________
Lionel Richard Robert Chartrand

(Signature)
__________________________
A Barrister & Solicitor in and for
the Province of Manitoba

Note: Both signings appear to be that of a L. Chartrand. I have requested clarification from The Law Society of Manitoba as to the appropriateness of a lawyer witnessing their own signature.
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File No. CI 05-01-41955
The Queen's Bench
Winnipeg Centre

Between:

Manitoba Metis Federation Inc., Anita Campbell, David Chartrand , Elbert Chartrand, Rita Cullen, William Flett, John Fleury, Laura Hyrich, Julyda Lagimodiere, Joyce Langan, Leah LaPlante, Judy Mayer, Rosemarie McPherson, Darryl Montgomery, Marilee Nault, Jack Park, Claire Riddle and Denise Thomas

Plaintiffs

- and -

Terry Belhumeur, Clare L. Pieuk, and the person or persons using the e-mail address metis_mom@hotmail.com

Defendants
_______________________________________________________
Affidavit Of Clare L. Pieuk
Sworn February 7, 2006
Hearing Date: Adjourned Sine Die
_______________________________________________________

Jeffrey J. Niederhoffer
Barrister and Solicitor
P.O. Box 48081 RPO Lakewood
Winnipeg, MB R2J 4A3
Telephone: (204) 471-8682
Email: jjn@niederlaw.com

Affidavit of Clare L. Pieuk
Sworn the 7th day of February, 2006

I, CLARE L. PIEUK, of the City of Winnipeg, in the Province of Manitoba, MAKE OATH AND SAY THAT:
1. I am one of the Defendants herein, and as such have personal knowledge of the matters hereinafter deposed to by me, except where same is indicated to be based upon information and belief, in which case I verily believe same to be true.

2. I have read paragraph 3 of the Affidavit of Lionel Richard Robert Chartrand sworn January 23, 2006, and subsequently filed with the court.

3. On or about February 12, 2004, although Mr. Chartrand advised me to retain separate litigation counsel in anticipation of potential legal action by the Manitoba Metis Federation, he did not indicate to me any intention or desire on his part to discontinue his services as General Counsel for the website http://www.cybersmokesignals.com (hereafter "the website") or as informal legal advisor to Mr. Belhumeur and myself in our respective capacities as owner and webmaster of the website.

4. From February 12, 2004, or about this date, to the date I have sworn this my Affidavit, Mr. Chartrand has not indicated to me any intention or desire on his part to discontinue his services as General Legal Counsel for the website or as informal legal advisor to Mr. Belhumeur and myself in our respective capacities as owner and webmaster of the website.

5. From February 12, 2004, or about this date, to May 28, 2005, or about this date, Mr. Chartrand continued to provide advice to me in my capacity as webmaster of the website.

6. Attached hereto and marked as Exhibits "A", "B" and "C" to this my Affidavit are copies of a series of emails exchanged between Mr. Chartrand and myself on various dates subsequent to February 12, 2004 in which Mr. Chartrand and I discussed various legal questions broadly relating to or arising from my role as webmaster of the website.

7. Attached hereto and marked as Exhibits "D", "E", "F", "G", "H" and "I" to this my Affidavit are copies of a series of emails exchanged between Mr. Chartrand and myself on various dates subsequent to February 12, 2004 in which Mr. Chartrand and I discussed general questions of legal strategy concerning the action commenced by the Plaintiffs herein.

8. On or about May 28, 2005, after receiving the Statement of Claim of the Plaintiffs herein (hereinafter "the Statement of Claim"), I telephoned Mr. Chartrand and requested his advice as to how to draft a Statement of Defence. Mr. Chartrand advised me to precede my Statement of Defence with a "General Response" in which I provided admissions or denials, or indicated my lack of knowledge in respect of the various allegations in the Statement of Claim. Mr. Chartrand further recommended I include a number of specific provisions in my Statement of Defence, the wording of which he subsequently dictated to me. Toward the end of the telephone conversation, Mr. Chartrand suggested I fax the Statement of Defence to his office for his review and comment. For reasons which are not relevant here, I ultimately decided not to seek further advice or counsel from Mr. Chartrand in relation to the Statement of Claim.

9. I make this Affidavit bona fide and for no improper purpose or motive.

SWORN before me at the City)
of Winnipeg, in the Province of)
Manitoba, this 7th day of)
February, 2006

(Signature)
____________________
Jeffrey J. Niederhoffer
A Notary Public in and for the Province of Manitoba

(Signature)
____________________
Clare L. Pieuk
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Exhibit "A"

From: "Lionel Chartrand" lrc@shaw.ca
To: "Clare Pieuk" pieuk@shaw.ca
Sent: February 16, 2004 10:08 AM
Subject: Re: Any revisions?

I would reconsider this one. I have to rush out to court. Maybe we can talk later today.

----- Original Message -----
From: Clare Pieuk
To: Lionel Chartrand
Cc: ........@yahoo.com
Sent: Monday, February 16, 2004 1:45 AM
Subject: Any revisions?

Sunday February 15, 2004

Hi Lionel, any suggestions for changes before it goes up. It's from ..... ......... .

Thanks,
Clare

Note: The individual's name appears in my original affidavit which is a public legal document available at Manitoba Court of Queen's Bench File Registry. It has been deleted to protect their identity on the internet.

Dear CyberSmokeSignals:

I for one don't like to see our Metis people struggle. It's bad enough that we have a leader that doesn't care. I'm very concerned about our Metis people being so brain washed by one dictator that heads the Federation, namely David Chartrand. David doesn't know the meaning of unity and would care less of over half of the Metis Nation in Manitoba.

Over one half of of the Metis people have been separated from our present leadership. We are not unity people and their's no doubt about it. We need a president that could bring unity back to our organization, a person with a strong desire to work with all people, not just a select few. I'm totally confident, if Mr. Dumont becomes president he won't turn people away, even those that won't vote for him in this upcoming election. Mr. Dumont is no stranger to the Metis people of Manitoba, he is indeed a person of honesty, pride, compassion, caring and above all, unity for all Metis people in Manitoba and he comes with years of experience, more so then David Chartrand. I would like to say to the Metis people of Manitoba, come on board with us, even David's present and past supporters are welcome with open arms. Let's show both the Federal and Provincial government's and David that we really mean business and that we are going to be united and very strong. And David, we are indeed a very caring people, and we won't forget about you like you did to us as a united Metis Nation. United and strong we stand Metis people. What are your thought's?

Marsee/Megwitch/Thank you
and Best wishes to you all

From a Very Concerned MMF Member
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Exhibit "B"

From: "Lionel Chartrand" lrc@shaw.ca
To: "Clare Pieuk" pieuk@shaw.ca
Sent: February 26, 2004 11:37 PM
Subject: Re: And David's suing us?

I found it in my jeans at home! I was VERY relieved. Thanks.

You would not know about similar stories I have heard like this but I am bound to secrecy. She is not alone.

Hopefully, victims will work the nerve to disclose. You may consider advising such people to seek counselling from a social worker (but not thru MCFS LOL!)

----- Original Message -----
From: Clare Pieuk
To: Lionel Chartrand
Sent: Thursday, February 26, 2004 10:30 PM
Subject: And David's suing us?

Thursday February 26, 2004

Hi Lionel, it was nice seeing you today - hope your found your wallet. Below is an e-mail I received today from ....... ........ who used to work for the MMF. Her first statement, "ouch ....." is in reference to an earlier letter I had sent her responding to her question why I didn't like David Chartrand which I proceeded to lay out for her.

Please keep this confidential as I know you will.

Regards,
Clare

Note: The individual's name appears in my original affidavit which is a public legal document available at Manitoba Court of Queen's Bench File Registry. It has been deleted to protect their identity on the internet.

Outch! Talk about getting stabbed in the back!

The original e-mail which followed (195 words) contained serious unproven allegations which could be viewed as defamatory and, therefore, have been deleted. However, it appears in my original public affidavit filed with the courts.
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Exhibit "C"

From: "Lionel Chartrand" lrc@shaw.ca
To: "Clare Pieuk" pieuk@shaw.ca
Sent: April 13, 2004 10:03 PM
Subject: Re: Some background information for you!

Hi Clare,

I just got back from a trip to Saskatoon for 5 days - won the Canadina Aboriginal Curling Championship. Running out for 2 days tomorrow at 8 a.m. Maybe we can chat next week - real busy these days. This .... .... letter will just get a polite political reaponse - see a civil law lawyer etc., etc. Gannon will know enough not to bite on this. The letter actually does not do a good job of framing questions. Too bad.

Lionel

Note: The "Gannon" referred to is Pat Gannon who at the time was Deputy Minister of Corporate Affairs, Province of Manitoba.

----- Original Message -----
From: Clare Pieuk
To: Lionel Chartrand
Sent: Tuesday, April 13, 2004 6:23 PM
Subject: Some background information for you!

Tuesday April 13, 2004

Hi again Lionel. I've figured out the significance of the May 4, 2004 date in relation to the appeal of Yvon Dumont's successful election court challenge - a hearing is pending to consider "fresh evidence" - that's all the online registry said. In looking at the electronic file it also makes reference to an Appeal Book (2 volumes) that was introduced March 22 and a Book of Authorities of the Apppellant (March 26).

I was going to update CyberSmokeSignals readers on what's happening with this case. What is an Appeal Book and a Book of Authorities? Not to worry, your name will not appear anywhere in the posting.

On another matter, I thought you might be interested in the following letter written by .... .... - sounds like they may have some compelling arguments. Please keep it confidential as they are not aware I'm sharing it with anyone - the last thing in the world I'd want to see happen is Rosemarie McPherson and Muriel Parker getting wind of this. You once told me if you could keep a secret in The Pas you could keep it anywhere.

Regards,
Clare

Note: Because of limitations of space and time I have not re-produced the twenty-two paragraph letter (and its three attachments) from .... .... to Pat Gannon which was also copied to Manitoba Finance Minister Greg Selinger. Suffice it to say its author was very concerned whether the Metis Women of Manitoba Inc. at the time was a defaulted Corporation and if it was abiding by its Articles of Incorporation.
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Exhibit "D"
To be continued.