“Sharing Is The Law Of The Land” ‑ Dr. George Clutesi

An Announcement

Tseshaht First Nation’s Newsletter

Volume 4 Issue 5 May 2008

Inside this IssueSockeye Fishery Closed ......................................2 Kids’ Corner ....................................................12B.C. Lt. Governor Steven Point ..........................3 Tseshaht, Ehattesaht, and AhousahtJob Fair ..............................................................3 Narrowing Wish Lists ......................................13Tseshaht Council Elections .................................4 Healthy Recipe ................................................14National Day of Action ......................................9 Well Baby & Child Drop-In Clinic ....................14Spirit Pole ........................................................10 Language Classes ............................................15Floor Hockey Tournament ................................11 Kathy’s Korner ................................................15National Aboriginal Day ...................................11 Work Placement Program ...............................16June Calendar of Events ...................................12 Upgrading Classes ..........................................16

Hiikwis (hiikwis) Archaeological ProjectSubmitted by Denis St. Claire

Continued on page 2

From 1999 to 2001, the Tseshaht Archaeological project at the ancient village site of Ts’ishaa (c`is^aa) on Benson Island recovered much data that stretched human occupation of the Broken Group Islands back over 5,000 years. We learned much of Tseshaht history from these three summers of excavation. However, there are 165 archaeological sites presently known in the Broken Group alone. Each site is another unique page of Tseshaht’s (c`is^aa%ath)= history book waiting to be opened and read. Each site contains a portion of the long and rich history and culture of the Tseshaht (c`is^aa%ath)= people. No one site can inform us of the full Tseshaht (c`is^aa%ath)= story as different sites were occupied for different specific resources and/or at different times of the year. To fully understand ancient Tseshaht (c`is^aa%ath)= history and

culture, a number of different sites must be scientifically and respectfully examined.

The two sites were chosen for the different information that they potentially can provide us. The respected elder, Sayaach’apis ( s a y a a c ^ ’ a p i s ) principal informant/

consultant for famed anthropologist Edward Sapir, passed on much detailed information about life at Equis [Hiikwis] (hiik#is), which will be very helpful when analyzing the materials that we will recover this summer. Dicebox Island has been described as the jewel of the Broken Group because of its impressive Defensive site [fort] on top of a very steep sided hill overlooking the main village below. Very little is known about defensive sites, although many exist

within Nuu chah nulth (nuuc^aan`u>) territory.

Page 2

SockeyeFishery Closed

The Tseshaht Chief and Council, with the support of the Fisheries Committee, had decided to close the 2008 sockeye fishery until the actual run size can be determined.

The pre-season prediction is 150,000 Sockeye. The minimum escapement to keep the run productive is 200,000.

In 2007, the prediction of a 210,000 return was an over-estimation by 70,000 fish. The 2007 escapement was 140,000. The 2007 catch was 10,000, which, under average conditions will reduce the future returns by 40,000. Given Tseshaht’s concern for the long-term productivity of the sockeye run, the risk of repeating the scenario is too great.

Tseshaht elders are lending their voices to the issue, recognizing the dire importance of closing the fishery.

Elder Fred Gus wrote a letter to Tseshaht Band Council warning against fishing this season.

”We are living in very dangerous times. If we don’t protect our fish today, our river is going to end up like other rivers up and down the coast.”

Gus has lived on Tseshaht territory for 89 years and has been fishing its waters for most of that time.

“This is what I am asking you young fishermen – we have to leave all the fish go up to spawn. We can’t be catching these fish.”

The Tseshaht Chief and Council wish to inform anyone who ignores this closure that they will not be supported in any ensuing court actions and that their access to the Chinook fishery may be in jeopardy.

Full Tseshaht cooperation of this directive has been requested and is anticipated.

The sports and commercial fisheries have both been closed.

Only one, at the site of the former village of T’ukw’aa, (t’uk`#aa) has been extensively excavated. In many ways, Dicebox is much more impressive than other Nuu-chah-nulth (nuuc^aan`u>) defensive sites, and potentially will provide key documentation of important economic and cultural changes in Nuu-chah-nulth (nuuc^aan`u>) history many generations ago.

Very broad partnerships/associations have been formed with a number of institutions to enable us to carry out this project. Parks Canada, the University of Victoria, the University of British Columbia, and Coast Heritage Consulting have all made significant in-kind contributions to ensure our success. As an example of the sort of important donations these institutions are providing our project, UVic is sending 15 students and two instructors who will work for us at no cost. This will allow us to do a great deal of additional work. They will even pay for their own food and bring their own equipment!

Our campsite will be at the Tseshaht (c`is^aa%ath)= reserve of Tl’ihuwa (+`ihuuwa) on Nettle Island. This will be an ideal spot for our eight-week stay in the Broken Group as the wharf will be key for our mini fleet of boats necessary to transport crew members and equipment back and forth from work. One of the cabins will be our kitchen and the other will be our in-field faunal lab. The crew members will live in tents in behind the tree line. Depending upon the amount of funding obtained, up to 10 Tseshaht trainees will be hired. During their eight-week participation, they will learn basic archaeological excavation techniques, faunal identification, and large group working skills as well as experience living co-operatively and effectively in a large group.

Hiikwis (hiikwis) Archaeological Project... continued from page 1

Page 3

Conference Opened by B.C. Lt. Governor Steven Point

An educational conference focused on staying in school was highlighted by a visit from B.C.’s 28th Lieutenant Governor Steven Point at the end of April. The conference, Inspiring Students to Success, took place at Maht Mas gym on April 28. Students from the Alberni Valley, Bamfield and the West Coast took part.

Point was the guest of honour and delivered the conference address to a rapt audience. He encouraged students to stick with their studies because he sees the province as a changing place – one with “open doors” for anyone wishing to persevere.

“The face of BC is not the same as it was only 20 or 30 years ago,” he said.

Students from Tseshaht and Ahousaht performed Kelly John’s Chief Song, as well as two dinner songs for Point. Although it had been planned, no dancing was done out of respect of Louisa Watts’ passing on April 25.

The conference was well attended by local educators and politicians. Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council vice-president Dr. Michelle Corfield presented a hard-hitting message of hope

for those gathered, offering personal anecdotes about her own struggle to stay in school when she was younger.

“The choices you make now,” she said, “Greatly affect your opportunities for the future.”

Tseshaht councilor Willard Gallic also spoke at the conference, offering alternative ways to look at education. He said that as well as institutionalized schooling he believes traditional First Nations’ teachings to be very important. He advised to obtain as much information as possible from elders because they are the information holders of the community.

“My sister doesn’t have the degree on the wall,” he said. “But if I need to learn anything about our culture, I go to her.”

The conference offered students the opportunity to ask questions of the keynote speakers after they delivered their speeches.

One child asked Point how he defines success. “Success is what you bring to what you’re doing,” he said,

thoughtfully. “Success isn’t what you collect, it’s what you share with others.”

Job Fair Coming to TownThe Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council, in cooperation with Human Resources Development Canada, is proud to announce the Second Annual Career Education Conference for all Nuu-chah-nulth people.

“Your Future is Always in Motion” takes place at the Alberni Valley Multiplex on June 3-4, 2008. It runs from 9 am to 4:30 pm both days. Organizer Luke George promises that it is going to be huge.

“There are more vendors than last year taking part – 90 in total – and lots of engaging workshops,” he says.

Universities, colleges and businesses will all be on hand to woo youth with their wares. Some of the confirmed vendors are: BC Corrections, RCMP, Victoria Police, DFO, North Island College, University of Victoria, BC Ferries, Bank of Montreal and many others.

Canada’s top employers and post-secondary

institutions will be represented, featuring guest speakers, cultural entertainment, door prizes and seminar rooms to learn in-depth information about certain companies, interview techniques, resume building and more.

“We are hoping to expose Nuu-chah-nulth people of all ages to other options out there,” George says of the Fair. “We want people to know that they can follow their dreams if they really want to.”

Confirmed keynote speakers are Severen Suzuki, Duane Howard, Suzette Amaya and Kamalla Todd.

There will be lots of give-aways, including the Main Door Prize, which is a new laptop, provided by the NTC Nursing Department.

“Take that first step,” George says. “Come to the Fair.”To volunteer at the Fair, contact: Luke George at 724-5656.

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Tseshaht Council Elections

2008 Tseshaht Band Council: back (l. to r.): Luke George, Richard Sam, Sr., Les Sam; front (l to r): Erma Robinson, Leisa Fred, Dennis Bill and Boyd Gallic. Missing are Willard Gallic, Sr. and Mike Watts.

On May 8, the Great Room at the Administration Building opened wide its doors for its second-ever Tseshaht Band Council elections. Poll stations were open by 9 am and closed at 8 pm, giving everyone ample opportunity to cast their votes.

Absentee ballots were available in advance for those unable to vote in person.

The community voted in a new Tseshaht First Nations’ council comprised of Dennis Bill, Leisa Fred, Boyd Gallic, Willard Gallic Sr., Luke George, Erma Robinson, Les Sam, Richard Sam Sr., and Mike Watts.

Standard criminal record checks have been done and a traditional swearing-in ceremony was completed on May 26, paving the way for the new council to start its term in earnest.

TseshahT Band CounCil 2008

BOyd GALLiCBoyd is the fifth of six children born to Marion Gallic and

the late Richard Gallic. His grandparents are the late Jacob and Lizzie Gallic and the late Mac and Mary Robinson. Married to Valerie Gallic for 24 years, they have four grown children together: Shannon (Matt Auerbach), Tyrone, Bonnie and Michelle – all who have graduated from Alberni District Secondary School.

Boyd graduated from ADSS in 1980 and for the past 24 years has been employed as a courtworker for the Native Courtworkers and Counseling Association – providing services to First Nations

Page 5

people in Port Alberni, Tofino and Ucluelet. For the past 18 years, he has mentored Nuu-chah-nulth youth as a childcare worker through the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council’s USMA Program.

Boyd enjoys playing fastball, basketball, slow pitch and ice hockey. He has also coached minor softball and basketball for several years.

Boyd recognizes that children are the future and that education is very important to Tseshaht. He also sees elders as a key to the future of children; their wisdom an important part of that education. Boyd would like to see us living in a clean and healthy environment.

LEiSA FrEdLeisa Fred’s Nuu-chah-nulth name is Cahapiih. She has

recently turned 19 years old and is a life-long resident of Port Alberni. Her parents are Lillian and Jason Jensen. Her biological father is Boyd Fred. Her grandparents are Ron and Marlene Dick, and Emma Fred.

Leisa is currently a student at North Island College in Port Alberni. She is working on completing her English and Math courses in order to enroll in the Business Administration program, majoring in accounting. She hopes to reach her goal of successfully completing the Business Administration course, returning to live with Tseshaht and work within the community as an accountant. Leisa also aspires to own her own business in the next 10-12 years.

Leisa is no stranger to leadership. She sat on the Tseshaht Youth Council for two years. She was also elected Head Representative serving her last year on the

youth council. Leisa was elected as Female Representative for the BC Assembly of First Nations in May 2007.

Some of Leisa’s hobbies include crafting, dancing and the great outdoors. Hiking, walking, swimming or just sitting outside are all activities that relax Leisa. She says that being outdoors makes her realize how precious life truly is.

She is also an avid sporty, and considers her love of sport an unequalled passion in her life. She plays hockey, basketball and softball.

WiLLArd GALLiC, Sr.Willard Gallic, Sr. is an experienced leader in and out of the

Tseshaht community. He has served as

president of Local 503 International Longshore Workers Union, as well as second vice-president for two four-year terms in the Canadian area. His terms of service lasted well over 20 years.

Willard has also held a seat on Tseshaht Band Council since it became an elected body, and was appointed to chief councilor

New council signs their Tseshaht First Nations’ Oaths of Office, May 21, 2008

“Boyd recognizes that

children are the future

and that education is

very important to

Tseshaht.”

“She hopes to reach her

goal of successfully

completing the Business

Administration course,

returning to live with

Tseshaht…”

“Willard has been serving his

community his whole life.”

Page 6

by Tyee Chief, the late Adam Shewish of the Tseshaht First Nation. At that time, the band was under the hereditary system of governance.

Willard has been serving his community his whole life.

LukE GEOrGELuke George’s parents are the late Sandra Amos, and Phil

George. His grandparents were the late Rose Tatoosh (Bill) and Norm Johnston. Luke’s great grandparents were the late Lucy Bill and Tommy Bill, linking him to many Nuu-chah-nulth bands, namely Tseshaht, Hupacasath, Hesquiaht, Mowachath and Huu-ay-ath.

Luke obtained a Bachelor’s degree in 2005 and is currently working a contract position for the NTC. With the assistance of three others, he is planning a career fair for the Nuu-chah-nulth people. Also having worked for Parks Canada in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve for six seasons, he has developed a unique blend of expertise in planning, program development and leadership.

Luke believes that his past military experience has taught him the useful skills of teamwork, loyalty and discipline.

He lives by the motto: I am a leader, not a follower.

ErmA rOBinSOnShe says about herself: “Like many others, I come from

a family whose father and grandfathers have been a part of the council for our people. I remember my grandfather Hawkey as a very happy man who worked hard physically for both his family and for our people, filling potholes, repairing roofs, anything that needed to be done to help our people, he didn’t get paid for this job.

I remember my father Doug attending meetings late into the night, going on long trips and coming home tired, but talking about what they were going to show our people at the next meeting. I remember Uncle Adam and how he would work hard to help anyone who came to see him no matter what time of the day or night. This respect for my people I learned very well.

As you all know, I was gone from home for many years, for those years, I was in school. And

while I was in school, I was involved in the community both socially and politically. As a student organizer, I was most often the grassroots worker, the person who maintained contact with the students we represented. In taking this position, I learned how to listen not just to what is being said, but what the meaning is behind the words. This I believe is the most important thing to remember when speaking for someone else, which is what a council does.

Though my position was generally grassroots, it wasn’t the only thing I did. I also worked very hard as a organizer and coordinator, attending meetings with other organizations, the SFU administration, lobbying for better access and better accommodations for the First Nations students on campus. And we did secure many benefits for the students.”

LES SAmLes Sam was born and raised on Tseshaht IR#1 for the past 50

years. Les is the eldest son born to the late Charlie (Chuck) Sam and Sylvia.

Les met Colleen (Gus), they married and have three boys together – Terry (Lisa), Glen and Chevy. They also have two grandchildren, Bailey and Hannah (children of Terry and Lisa).

Les was taught traditional and cultural values throughout his

“Luke believes his past

military experence has

taught him the useful

skills of teamwork,

loyalty and discipline.”

“I learned how to

listen not just to what

is being said, but

what the meaning is

behind the words.”

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childhood and has always exercised his aboriginal rights as part of everyday life.

Hunting, fishing and gathering have played a large part in Les’ life and he continues these practices today (Les was taught to hunt and fish by his father and uncles).

Les has learned many traditional values from his grandmother, the late Agnes Sam (Salis), which included cultural gathering and fish processing, as well as further teachings of traditional title areas (Broken Group) from the late Jake Gallic and others.

Active from a very young age, Les still occasionally enjoys playing sport, particularly soccer, fastball, ball hockey and basketball. He sponsors and promotes the Thunder Sports Club.

Les had a passion for building and at a young age became a Red Seal Journeyman carpenter. Les

worked for the Tseshaht Band as the first Housing Coordinator in the mid-80s, creating and implementing the first social housing units and developing the Sayatchapis subdivision.

Les formed Les Sam Construction in 1986 and has been successfully self-employed since.

Les has been responsible for managing and supervising many large projects over the past 20 years. These include the NTC Building, Bank of Montreal, Tseshaht Market, Nanaimo First Nations’ Office, Haa-Huu-Payek School and over 100 private house construction projects.

In 2004, Les was elected Chief Councillor of the Tseshaht Band Council. In that time, Les has contributed to Tseshaht by having a first-hand contribution to the state-of-the-art House of Tseshaht Administration Building, which has won several prestigious national awards. He has also built 36 new housing units for Tseshaht members, including a new subdivision. Les has helped to expand forestry programs and financial control over forestry in First Nations’ interest, as well as assisted in the acquisition of 300 acres from Catalyst, located adjacent to the Tseshaht reserve.

riCHArd JAmES, Sr.Richard James, Sr. is one of 11 children born to the late Agnes

(Watts) and Charlie Sam. Richard married twice. From his first marriage, he has four children: Richard, Tina, Ron and Barbara

Rose. He and wife Maria Jimmy have a daughter, Alicia.

Richard passed his GED test a few years after leaving high school. He then became a logger for a few years and then went through the phase of working on six-month “make work” projects. That was when he realized that he was not going anywhere without more education.

Richard took a Computer Applications in Business Management course at North Island College and received a “Book” award for finishing with the second highest marks in all administration courses at NIC. He then went to work for Richard Watts as a sales clerk until the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council, learning of his computer accomplishments, hired him as a data processor.

Today, he is the NTC Network Supervisor.

mikE WATTSMike Watts’ parents are the late Edward “Teddy” Watts and

Millie Watts (Harris). His paternal grandparents are the late Hughie Watts and the late Grace Watts (Hamilton). His maternal grandparents are the late Jeffery Harris and the late Emma Harris (Muldoe) from Gitxsan. He is the youngest of three children; his brother is Teddy and his sister is Millie. Mike is the proud father of three children of his own, as well – Paula, Hughie and Adrianna. His common-law spouse is Renee Perpick (Morgan) from Kitwango (Gitxsan).

“Les has been responsible for

managing and supervising

many large projects over

the past 20 years.”“…received a “Book”

award for finishing with

the second highest marks

in all administration

courses at NIC.”

Page 8

Mike graduated from ADSS in 1988. He has worked full-time since 1986, but actually started earning his own spending money

at the age of 12 by delivering newspapers. He currently works for the NTC as an audio-video technician and has held this job since 1992.

He also owns and operates his own small business, Kaw-T-shirts, which saw its inception in 1992.

Mike has held a seat on the Tseshaht Band Council since his election in 2004. His term helped

to build the new Administration Building, build new residential homes for the community, acquire a large parcel of land adjacent to the reserve, and purchase a Tree Farm License.

Mike sits on the volunteer Board of Directors for Haa-huu-payuk School.

He lives by the quote: The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.

dEnniS BiLLDennis has been re-elected for another four-year term as a

councilor for the Tseshaht First Nations. He says about himself: “As a councilor, I have been a part

of the team that: built a new administration building that is a

“He lives by the quote:

The future belongs to

those who believe in the

beauty of their dreams.”

showpiece on our reserve; has done away with a lot of the negative feelings surrounding the old residential school site and created several construction jobs; built much-needed homes on our reserve that is overcrowded with people living in less than acceptable conditions; developed and planned a newsletter for the members and community at large to better-understand what is happening in our growing community; worked to create more funds to help Tseshaht forestry with a better-managed contract and growth in forestry operations; and furthermore, I served as the Chair of the Education Committee whose goals are to help promote education and support students financially and academically whenever possible.

I have also been a part of the Haa-huu-payuk School Board and continue to see our school improving and growing to meet the needs of our students.

I see communication as a big part of my newly elected term. This last month has shown me what good communication can look like. It can be respectful and constructive. As a community, we need to keep each other informed and it is the responsibility of leaders to maintain communication.”

“I see communication as

a big part of my newly

elected term.”

Page 9

On May 29, Canada celebrates National Day of Action from coast to coast. The annual event sees national demonstrations calling for public and government attention to First Nations’ issues.

There will be an organized demonstration in front of the parliament building in Victoria (10 am - noon). Tseshaht is participating by sending a bus from the community down to stand for the demonstration.

Other demonstrations will take place across Canada, with the largest expected on Parliament Hill in Ottawa.

According to the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), it, along with all Canadian First Nations, is calling the government to action in three areas with this year’s National Day of Action. The protection of First Nation children, investing in First Nations’ future, and respecting the responsibility between the government and First Nations are key to the future success of First Nations everywhere, says AFN.

The AFN website details the underlying reasons for the this year’s National Day of Action:

PrOTECT Our CHiLdrEn• First Nations children receive less funding for education than

other Canadian children. We are calling for fairness in funding to First Nations children.

• First Nations’ Child Welfare Systems are under-funded compared to provincial child welfare systems. This discrimination leaves our children vulnerable and places them at risk. We are calling for fairness in funding for First Nations child welfare.

invEST in Our FuTurE• More than half of the First Nations population is under the

age of 25. That is Canada’s future workforce and the key to a productive and prosperous Canada.

• We must end the shameful conditions that exist in too many First Nations communities, conditions like over-crowded and unsafe housing, dangerous drinking water and crumbling infrastructure.

• We must invest in healthy environments for our children and all our people. Canada is a rich nation – investing now is the responsible thing to do for all Canadians.

national day of Action

rESPECT Our rESPOnSiBiLiTy TO OnE AnOTHEr:• Set aside the colonial Indian Act and dismantle the Department

of Indian Affairs in favour of a new approach that provides First Nations with the right and responsibility to make the decisions that affect their lives.

• Recognize that First Nation governments must be responsible and accountable to their own people first.

• Show respect for First Nations by implementing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

• Work with First Nations to bring honour to the Treaties, to resolve long-standing lands claims and work together to share in the riches of this land.”

For more information on the National Day of Action, please visit www.afn.ca.

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the opportunity to be a piece of history.

In Port Alberni, both Tseshaht and Hupacasath had the chance to contribute to it for five hours at the Friendship Centre on May 4. George Clutesi, Jr. and Irene Robinson both lent their elbow grease and expertise to the project, along with about 100 others.

At the end of the three-month journey, carver Carey Newman will finish it off. Newman was responsible for designing and roughing-in the pole’s artistic design.

The pole will be presented to Team BC prior to the Games on August 3. The pole will be erected in the Cowichan Valley as “a legacy of understanding, respect and appreciation of Aboriginal arts and culture”.

Spirit Pole Leaves its Home on the island

The mammoth province-wide totem-carving project, aptly named The Spirit Pole, hit Port Alberni on May 4 en route to the mainland.

Cowichan 2008 North American Indigenous Games organizers originally conceived the idea for the pole sometime ago and have been supported by BC150, the celebration of the 150th anniversary of the province of British Columbia, in its implementation.

The Spirit Pole is an ancient 20-foot red cedar that was blown down in Stanley Park during the storms of November 2006. It is being slowly transformed into a majestic totem, carved by 47 First Nations communities across the province. The project will be completed by July 28.

The pole is moving from community to community, giving all First Nations

“Victory In Spirit, A Story In Wood”

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Maht Mahs – At the 15th annual Thunder floor hockey tournament held on May 2 to the 4 at Maht Mahs in Port Alberni the Thunder stormed back to win the men’s floor hockey tournament. They played and defeated the Hesquiaht squad in an exciting final. The final score was Thunder 9 - 5 over the previously undefeated Hesquiaht team. Thunder had to come back through the back door after losing an earlier match to Hesquiaht in the semi-final game with the winner advancing to the final.

On Saturday evening during the tournament, Thunder had initiated inducting twenty four members into their hall of fame. This included players from the past, coaches, as well as a fan/supporter. Larry Swan from Ahousaht, Duane Nookemus from Huu-ah-aht, and Patty Jones from Tla-o-qui-aht were inducted along with Louie Joseph. Ann Barker was also inducted from North Shore. Tom Curley from Tla-o-qui-aht also was acknowledged as a fan/supporter.

Receiving hall of fame honors from the Tseshaht hosts were Moby Dick as a coach, Richard Watts, Ron Dick Sr., James Dick, Sid Dick, Andy Dick, Chuck Doiron, Charlie Sam, Richard Sam, Les Sam, Reg Gus, Darrel Ross, and Gerald Fred.

Other Tseshaht members included Trich Little (nee Gallic), Nancy Gallic, and Doreen Charleson (nee Gallic), three very athletic and talented athletes. Margaret Fred and Rachael Bos were the inductees to the Tseshaht Floor Hockey Hall of Fame. It was also announced that at next year’s annual floor hockey tournament for Thunder there would be more participants honored more participants will be honoured next year.

Les Sam, a key organizer for Thunder’s annual floor hockey and fastball tournaments, spoke at the trophy presentations.

“We have been hosting tournaments for the last fifteen years for both floor hockey and fastball. It is good to compete with each other in a healthy and friendly way,” said Sam. He also thanked Martin Watts for doing a good job during the induction of the Hall of Fame.

Sam also said that Nuu-chah-nulth need to start having tournaments for the younger generations.

“It is important to give the younger generation an opportunity to play amongst each other and to develop their athletic skills with their own peers and not against the older

more experienced players,” Sam said. At the trophy presentations, several people were honoured.

In the women’s division, TFN took first place, while Huu-ah-aht was second place. They each received trophies and cash. Lisa Fred, Catlyn Fred and Shawnee Thomas from Tseshaht all received all-star trophies.

Thunder was awarded the first place trophy in the form of cash, and Hesquaiht was also awarded a trophy and cash for second place. TFN received a third place trophy. Wes Price and Ernie Cartlidge received all-star trophies.. Cartlidge was also the Most Valuable Player and Chris Lambert from Thunder was named the Top Goalie.

Thunder Wins Own Floor Hockey TournamentSubmitted by Jack F. Little, Ha-Shilth-Sa Reporter

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Vancouver Island Marmots are an endangered species, according to the Canadian Species at Risk list. They are chocolate brown with a white muzzle and white streaks along the chest and belly. They growth up to 71 cm. in length and can weigh up to 3.5 kg. They live in lush sub-alpine meadows with scattered boulders near steep slopes. They come out of their burrows to feed on grasses and wildflowers. The hibernate from mid-September to May.

Did You Know?Populations dropped when marmots started dispersing to nearby logged areas, instead of going farther to avalanche chutes and meadows. Recent clear cuts have large openings with lots of food, but before long, the trees grow back. They shade out the grass and wildflowers, and allow predators to sneak up close without being seen.

Predation by wolves, cougars and golden eagles is the highest cause of death.

A captive breeding program is in place, and marmots are being reintroduced to the wild.

➜

➜

➜

Vancouver Island MarmotKids’Corner

Information used with the kind permission of Uu-a-thlukPhoto credit: Oli Gardner

June Calendar of Events Happening at Tseshaht

multiplexJune 12, 13 ............................Sewing with Betty

June 9 ..........................................“The Secret” (Creating your Vision Board)

June 4, 11, 18, 25 ............Community Healing Group

June 26 ......................................Family Night

TBA ..............................................Photo Albums with Native Designs

Ongoing EventsTseshaht Rescue Unit Survival Team

Tuesdays • Port AlberniT.R.U.S.T. meetings are held every Tuesday at 7p.m. at Ron Dick Sr.’s home at 6310 Old Logging Road, Port Alberni. Always looking for new members. If interested, a First Aid ticket is preferred. If not you can be trained. Contact Ron Dick Sr. at 723-8340 or 731-5118.

Weaving Our VoicesWednesdays • Port Alberni

Twelve week open drop-in group for women survivors of childhood trauma. In this group we will share wisdom, information and support rather than personal stories. Held every Wednesday starting April 2 from 10 a.m to 12 p.m. at 4259 6th Avenue Port Alberni. For more information please call Alanna at 724-7111.

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Kids’CornerTseshaht is preparing to work on two Community Action Projects to address pressing social and economic issues through an initiative known as Ahp-cii-uk (“going the right way”). Ahp-cii-uk brings partners from the outside to consult with community members, helping them to achieve their priority goals.

Tseshaht gathered on May 12 at Somass Hall to hear from four band members about research conducted for a fitness centre, drug rehabilitation program/retreat, campground, and an artists’ market.

Lillian Jensen shared her ideas with the group about working with youth on a fitness centre. Many of the youth she works with are keen to have a facility where they can work out, take fitness classes and play sport.

Jacqui Watts presented a slide show explaining why she feels so strongly about the need for a safe house, a detox centre, community education and support, as well as a residential wilderness rehabilitation centre for hard drug users. Research on community education, cultural development in rehabilitation, retreat options and costs, detoxification and safe house options and costs, and community volunteer support will be researched further for the next meeting by a group of community and non-community members.

Anne Robinson presented some ideas around developing an artists’ market. This group plans to survey local artists to establish if they would use something like this. They also plan to use the Tall Ships event in July to bring tourists and local artists together.

Keith Hunter took members on a tour of the agricultural land beside the river where a campground might be built with cultural activities and other amenities to draw tourists and raise funds for the band.

After the presentations, Working Groups formed around the drug rehabilitation and artists’ market ideas to determine the next steps of research to establish what need be done to develop them.

Any Tseshaht member who would like to volunteer on these projects can call local coordinator Anne Robinson at 720-8907. At this time, other project ideas will still be considered and the Working Groups are always open to new members.

On June 16 -17, all partners and community members on the Working Groups will gather in Tseshaht to discuss their ideas and choose which projects to develop in each community. Anyone from any of the three communities involved in Ahp-cii-uk (Tseshaht, Ahousaht, and Ehattesaht) is welcome to join the Working Groups.

Ahp-cii-uk is funded and supported by Health Canada and the BC Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation. In Tseshaht, active partnership is provided by Dr. Michelle Corfield of the NTC, Lee Davis of VanCity Capital Corporation, Ruth Selentich of Terasen Gas, Clifford Anderson of NEDC, Tim Low of INAC, Gord Curry of DFO, Alixe Knighton of Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation, and Judith Stein of Health Canada.

Tseshaht, Ehattesaht, and Ahousaht narrowing Wish Lists down to Action Steps

Submitted by Christine Schlattner

Page 14

Poaching the salmon in tea is a great way to add flavour and colour without the fat and salt.

INGREDIENTS1/3 cup pineapple, finely diced1/3 cup orange, finely diced1/3 cup red plum, finely diced¼ cup red onion, finely diced¼ tsp fresh ginger, mincedJuice of ½ a limePinch of chili flakes (or to taste)Pepper to taste4 6oz portions of fresh salmon4 tea bags of herbal citrus tea (ie: Rooibos citrus blend or lemon ginger)

DIRECTIONS

◗ In a small bowl mix together all ingredients for the salsa. This can be made 1 day ahead and kept in the fridge.

◗ In a deep fry pan or pot add enough water to measure 1 inch in depth. Simmer the 4 tea bags until a very strong tea has brewed. About 5-10 minutes. Remove the tea bags.

◗ Place salmon, skin side up, in the pan. Simmer for 15 minutes on medium heat. Turn the fish over and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

◗ Add milk and parsley. Cook for 10 minutes over low to medium heat stirring often.

◗ Place fish on a plate and top with fruit salsa.

Makes 4 servings. Tem

ptin

g Te

a Po

ache

d Sa

lmon

& F

ruit

Sal

sa

Tseshaht Well Baby & Child drop-in Clinic

Every Tuesday afternoon, there is a Well Baby & Child Drop-in Clinic from 1 – 4 pm (last immunization visit at 3:30 pm) at the Tseshaht Multiplex.

A community health nurse offers:• Weighing babies and toddlers• Immunizations• Breastfeeding support and information• Age-appropriate Nipissing Developmental Screen• Questions about your child’s growth and development• Post Partum Depression information • Nutrition and parenting information• Referrals as required

Please feel free to drop in at anytime between these hours for service or information. No appointment is necessary.

Everyone welcome. For further information, please contact Erin

Sinclair, NTC Community Health Nurse: 724.5757 (ext: 331).

Health Ability FairThis year’s Health Ability Fair, hosted by the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council Disability Access Committee, takes place on June 5 & 6, 2008 (9 am start each day) at Maht Mas Gym. The theme is Ihk-moot (what always was) and everyone is encouraged to attend.

Page 15

Language Classes

Barklay dialect language classes continue on at the Tseshaht Administration Building every Tuesday evening. Lena Ross and Linda Williams (Watts) are the teachers, and Kathy Robinson is an invaluable resource.

The volunteer-driven classes have been a community staple since February.

Ross is encouraged by the good and consistently solid turn-outs on Tuesdays, although she wants to encourage more people to come out and learn. She says that 10-15 people have been coming out to learn the Nuu-chah-nulth language.

“Those with passion for the language will learn it and keep it alive,” she says. “Those of us who have some knowledge of the language have a responsibility to the community to share what we know with those who want to learn.”

Ross teaches the Barklay dialect using three routes: phonetics, conversation and grammar. The phonetic system is considered a key to documentation, so is important to learn in order to help preserve the language, historically. Ross teaches conversation through the use of oral exercises. Grammar is generally taught via the example of sentence structure because the Barklay dialect is constructed by adding suffixes to root words, as in Latin.

“The language and the culture late Carrie Little and Kathy Robinson

taught me empowered me, therefore, I truly believe language and cultural teachings strengthen us. This is what I want for our community.”

She adds, “I like the idea of cisaa%ath people= speaking, singing and praying in our own language; understanding it and feeling it.”

Classes are every Tuesday evening at the Administration Building, from 7 - 9 p.m. All are welcome.

Kathy’s (%u%aa>uk#is)Korner

@atiqs^i+meh=saamah (I want to recognize) all of the participants of the language class. Our language is in a very critical state. If we do not make an effort to learn it; it may become extinct. The class that is held every Tuesday night is a doorway to anyone wanting to learn and hold on to this precious piece of who we are. This month’s phrases come from a CD Kathy and Lena created for the Band Office staff. If you would like a copy of this CD, contact Lena Ross at (250) 731-1205.

huuxs%ataaq+ah= c^aani I am going to rest for awhile.h=aawaass^i+h=ak Are you going for lunch?%am`iikh=%aaq+ah= nac^i+’as suw`a I will see you tomorrow.

Just a reminder.... Language classes take place every Tuesday evening from 7-9pm. We have a dedicated group of about 10 that attend every available class. %uus^y`aks^i+e%icuu (Thank you all) for coming out and learning the language.

Produced by:White Raven Consultingwhiteravenconsulting@shaw.cawww.whiteravenconsulting.caPh: 250.723-6565Front page: Serpent design © the late Jim Bob Mack Please Recycle

Tseshaht First nation’s Community office

5091 Mission RoadPO Box 1218

Port Alberni, BCV9Y 8X9

Phone: (250) 724-1225Fax: (250) 724-4385

www.tseshaht.com

We want your updates!If you have news and information that the

Tseshaht membership should know about...

Please send submissions to:newsletter@tseshaht.com or

fax: (250) 724‑4385

submission deadline for the next issue is June 15th

Work Placement ProgramThe Tseshaht Work Placement Program scored another one for the good guys this month by finding employment for 11 people locally at places like Capelli’s, t’aat’nee?is Daycare, and Haahuupayek School.

Community Development manager Gail Gus sees the momentum of the social assistance program accelerating in the past few months and is excited about the progress.

Considering that work placements over the past few years total approximately 40 people, the recent flurry of placements is encouraging.

“It helps people get off Social Assistance, get out there, and look for their own economic incentive,” she says.

The program aims at engaging people in meaningful work that enhances independence and employability. Another positive offshoot of the program is the skillsets it gives its participants.

The only criteria necessary is that people must currently be collecting social assistance and interested in not. Work placements can last up to one full year and typically lead to permanent employment. Earnings are subsidized by the government, and add up to more money than is collected via social

assistance payments. Gus sees this as a win-win

situation that can do nothing but further Tseshaht and get people out of negative cycles.

“Nuu-chah-nulth haven’t really tapped into the potential of the program yet,” Gus believes. She says that this is unfortunate because it offers people varied skills, making them more employable than when they enter the program.

“Starting the program is a life-changing point for most

people,” Gus says. “It opens doors that they didn’t even know existed, let alone know how to open.”

For more information about the Work Placement Program, please contact Gail Gus at the Tseshaht Administration Building: 724.1225.

do you want to upgrade your Math and english?

Upgrading classes are being offered at the Tseshaht Multiplex.

English • Mondays & Wednesdays • 9:30 – noonMath • Tuesdays & Thursdays • 9:30 – noon

Call Lena Ross for more information.