Deslin Neek The Voice of the Teslin Tlingit Council

Issue 62 April 2021

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

2 Chief’s Message 4 BC Negotiations Update 6 WCLCM Update 8 GC Resolutions 12 FN Arts Program 18 Announcements

Migrating Swans Thank-you to those who A sign of Spring! submitted articles amd photos for this issue of the Often seen gliding across lakes and rivers, the swan has long represented elegance and beauty. Neek.

Take a drive to Johnsons Crossing or Swan Haven to take in the sights and sounds of the returning of spring! Chief’s message

Photo: Courtesy of: Teresa Ward Slippers made by Arts & Culture Students

Message from Naa Shaade Hani Máa sá iyatee, on the Executive Council. Through truly looking forward to a successful his help we have infrastructure in spring, summer and fall work season. Greetings to everyone, our community that relies Biomass capacity for heat. He’s helped to We’ve had a higher than normal We say ‘Gunalcheesh’ to our General snowfall this past winter and we Council for their support of our create a way forward for us to have even more of these types of are monitoring the melt and are Annual Operating budget for Teslin hoping for no flooding issues in our Tlingit Council for the fiscal year Green Energy opportunities in our community. The knowledge that community. If the melt is gradual 2021-2022. This support signifies and the ground freeze isn’t too deep the confidence and trust you have in Gunta has related to economic development has worked its way and is able to absorb some off the the work to be done this year. The runoff than we may be safe. We take biggest take away we have from the in to the various areas within our work over the years. The this opportunity to thank all those work in presenting the budget and that have helped over the winter workplans was the request to have work done on Reviving Our Economy, establishment of Desleen to manage snow removal, plowing greater involvement with our citizens roads, keeping walkways clear and in the development of the budget. We Development Corporation, and making Biomass a viable economic helping Santa get his vehicle unstuck fully agree with this and we will put in Smarchville this past Christmas. in place a plan that will reflect that opportunity have benefited from Gunta’s involvement. At our March We have not seen this much snow in participation. There are definitely over 40 years. We just ask everyone some required expenditures that 31st General Council the Ishkitan announced that Gunta would be to stand ready if we are to have any we have to meet and where we have problems with the spring runoff. discretionary funding available we stepping down as Executive Council can plan how we may be able to member and Leslie McMillan would There were instances where prayers utilize those resources on activities be stepping forward as their new were being requested for community or projects we’d like to see happen. Executive Council member. We members who were having health Having citizen involvement in the welcome Leslie to the Executive or family challenges and we development of our annual operating Council and we looking forward acknowledge and say Gunalcheesh budgets will create an opportunity to working with her and we all will to all of you for offering up your to have a greater understanding and benefit from the knowledge and positive thoughts and prayers during awareness of what financial resources experience she brings to our work. those difficult times. we have available to work with and We say Gunalcheesh to our Ishkitan where we’d like to see some of those Clan for their work for this smooth Naa Sháade Háni - Eric transition. resources utilized. “It’s not what you have; it’s what you do with what you have.” We want to say ‘Gunalcheesh’ to We are embarking on a new fiscal Gunta - Bair Hogan for his service year and we are excited about all the work that’s being planned and are

2 Deslin Neek • Issue 62 March/April 2021 Deslin Neek • Issue 62 March/April 2021 TTC Trans-boundary update

Treaty related issues To frustrate matters further, BC has attention. Our November 26, 2019 still not assigned a chief negotiator request for the province to engage The (BC) and nor a full-time legal representative with us in developing a Strategic Canada governments’ responses to their team which stalls the Decision-Making Agreement to our term sheets have been process and progress since their (SDMA) continues to be met with sluggish in coming and inadequate. lead negotiator has to always go resistance. In the meantime, our When TTC-C/TFN teams met with back for instruction. rights continue to be eroded from the provincial and federal teams 3rd parties’ pressure, whether for a main table session on March The province, through their lead it be mining exploration, grazing 11-12, 2021, it became clear early negotiator, acknowledged the leases or land alienation. on that both governments were in Nations forward thinking and no way prepared for a discussion committed to relay a call to action BC Summit Participation at any level other than to continue to their senior officials to get with the concept of Constructive the right people at the table to TTC continues to participate at disengagement. negotiate and implement the term every level of the Summit through sheets to their full potential in a the development of joint political, The TTC and /Tagish First timely manner. We expect their negotiating and communication Nation (C/TFN) negotiating teams response at the June negotiation strategies. explained clearly what the intent session. and purpose of the draft term Schedule sheets are. We have included a Recognition and Reconciliation of The next negotiation session is term sheet on ‘Governance’ to Rights Policy (RRR’s) scheduled for June 16 & 17. make sure that Canada and BC are aware of the importance The Province, Canada and the First A chief negotiators forum with the of our traditional concepts of Nations Summit hosted a forum BC Summit is scheduled for April governance. It also ensures that of chief negotiators on March 29 & 30. governance is an essential and a 29, 30 & 31 to discuss ways to TTC Caucus meetings are currently part of the whole concept of co- fully implement the spirit of the scheduled on a monthly basis with governance. RRR’s policy. Our Term Sheets are consistent and within the scope of the next one on April 14th. Public The agenda was structured to move the RRR’s policy. What is missing meetings are currently scheduled us forward in our discussions. The from the process is BC’s political quarterly with the next one team carefully and methodically will to provide the direction and scheduled for April 27th. walked both governments through capacity to engage in meaningful Taku River Tlingit First Nation has our term sheets and explained negotiations. As a participant, extended an invitation to TTC for our concept of co-governance I asked 3 questions that reflect a small delegation to visit Atlin on and the steps we are prepared to the core of TTC’s mandate April 21 to discuss TTC interests in take to ensure our stewardship to ensure our treaty & self- BC. This is a preliminary meeting of the lands, water and resources government rights are respected leading up to a larger gathering continues. To that end, Lands, and incorporated to the extent with leadership involvement later Heritage and Resources Director, practical. My questions were this spring. Bess Cooley, Madeline Emmie Fairclough, presented to acknowledged by the Assistant Jackson, Michael Campbell and the governments TTC’s existing Deputy Minister of negotiations myself will attend this initial legislation and its legislative and dismissed as a capacity issue. meeting. agenda. Next steps Elders meetings scheduled for It soon became clear that the April 30th. BC government was in no way We’re just not a priority for BC at prepared for a real discussion. this time and are given minimal 4 Deslin Neek • Issue 62 March/April 2021 con’t

Dakh Ka Nation event strong cultural identity, which will On February 24, 2021, the Dakh • Building trails together ensure protection and the wellness Ka Nation held a Nation Rebuilding • Develop a healing strategy of our future generations, the land, Virtual Community Engagement •Host camps to be together and the water and our environment. Event. Two sessions were held - learn one in the morning and one during Presently, we continue to develop the afternoon to ensure that we This event was the continuation our Dahk Ka Nation workplan gave Citizens the opportunity to of our journey together. In 1986, based on the resolution of February participate. the Elders met to discuss bringing 1, 2021 signed by our respective A all three First Nations together, to leaders. The workplan will focus on ll three communities of Teslin, speak with a unified voice, as one these areas: Carcross and Atlin were connected - a unified voice of Dakhka Tlingit • Wildlife virtually and participated. We’re Nation. • Boundaries proud to say that many did engage T • Economic Development from our Elders to our youth. Over hrough the project process, we • Language and Culture and 75 Citizens joined us and shared have reaffirmed the importance • Legislation their ideas of how we could come of our Dakhka Mission Statement together as a Nation. We heard a which is to reunite for all time the Contact info wide range of Ideas. Here a few of Dakhka as one self-reliant and self- [email protected] them: governing Nation based on healthy • A storytelling and spoken word Citizens who believe and practice a Gunalcheesh - Dave

TTC welcomes Community Safety Officer!

In the spirit of Community Safety, home in the north. Teslin Tlingit Council (TTC) would Recently retired from the RCMP, like to welcome Jeff Myke as our and taking up permanent residence Community Safety Officer (CSO) here in Teslin, both Jeff and his wife Manager. Jeff brings a wealth of Alicia feel truly at home. He enjoys experience with his education in hiking, camping, canoeing and law enforcement, conflict resolution spending time on the land. One of training, and work experience. Jeff’s most memorable experiences A First Nations Mohawk from since moving to Teslin, was taking Six Nations, Jeff possesses a great part in the TTC canoe journey understanding and personal from Atlin to Carcross for the Haa knowledge of First Nations, Kusteeyi Celebrations in 2019. particularly TTC’s Culture & Jeff will be working closely with traditions. With an almost 20 year the Teslin Justice Council as he career working for the RCMP implements the CSO program. in northern Yukon and NWT communities, Jeff truly feels at

Deslin Neek • Issue 62 March/April 2021 Update from the WCLCM

Working Committee on Legal and Our Committee is made up of seven We had a positive meeting with Constitutional Matters (WCLCM) members and me as an independent Management Board and Executive Chair. We use modern technology Council to provide our budget On behalf of our Committee, to meet. We use Cisco WebEx which estimates for this fiscal year. All I would like to thank the TTC allows us to combine in-person of our information was provided Communications for inviting me to and virtual participation by our provide an update on our activities to General Council on March 31st members. This way we can involve and approved. to date. our citizens from as far away as We are the Working Committee on Ontario and Vancouver. We have We have reported to the General Legal and Constitutional matters, three members on this Committee Council regularly and have had or the WCLCM for short. We are who don’t live in Yukon, but who can three consultations with the established and mandated by the participate from afar. It is wonderful Elders Council. The work of this General Council. This Committee to have our people participate in Committee will be guided by the was created at the General Assembly General Council business and the Elders Council all the way through. in 2020 and is tasked with three work of our government, no matter We reviewed our Work Plan with major jobs: First, we are to develop a where they live in the world. them and have their approval Teslin Tlingit Nation Charter based We are fortunate to have to move forward. We will work on the principles of Haa Kusteeyi citizens with skills from various closely with them and all Clans which in our language means “the backgrounds available to help with going forward. It is important that way we live”. The second major task this important work. Committee the work be community based is to review the elections process members bring working experience so that citizens have a sense of of 2020 and the TTC Elections Act in TTC governance, justice, ownership of this Charter when to see where improvements can be it is completed. It has to be made if needed. Finally, we will look law, traditional Haa Kusteeyi knowledge, Tlingit language and meaningful to them. The Charter at the TTC Constitution to see what has to come from the citizens. we can do to strengthen our Clan culture among other things. We based government. All of this work have the perspective of our Elders We are currently at the beginning will strengthen our Nation of people and our Youth as part of our circle. stage of a research project on the and our government. The entire committee is aware of principles of Haa Kusteeyi. What Our committee is Clan based the huge workload placed before have our Elders said about the way we live… about Haa Kusteeyi in with a representative from each them and all are willing to fully the past and what do our Elders say Clan. The Elders and Youth participate. We are proud that the work of this Committee is one today. Many Elders have left us, but Council also have a member we have recordings of interviews appointed to the Committee. hundred percent done by Teslin Tlingit. The Committee is not aided with them that we can draw on. We by outside consultants. We have can’t forget what our Elders had Chair – Bob Magill the knowledge and skill within to say in regard to Haa Kusteeyi Elders Council – George M. the Committee to accomplish the and this is a way of ensuring their Henry mandate work. To support our knowledge is never lost and will Youth Council – Savana Kremer work, we are currently looking for be passed on to future generations. Kookhitaan – Sandy Smarch an office assistant. This will be an These Haa Kusteeyi principles will Ishkitaan – Anne Turner opportunity for another one of our form the foundation of our modern Yanyeidi – Duane Aucoin Teslin Citizens to gain some part Teslin Tlingit Nation Charter. It will be a work of the people. Deisheetaan – Marian Sheldon time work in office administration. Dakl’aweidi – Sheila Clark We have established our Terms of Reference, Work Plan and budget.

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A lot of research has been done Kusteeyi as a way to guide our daily by TTC over the years and we will lives. Our Ancestors walked this Did you know? be reviewing all of this material way and we haven’t lost this way of to see how it can help us with our living. We just need to breathe life Some of the largest spe- work. The Committee does not into it again. cies of swans, including want to duplicate any work that has already been completed, we want to On behalf of our Committee, the mute swan, trumpeter breathe life back into what we have thank you for taking the time to swan, and whooper swan, in our records and archives as well read our update and giving me can reach a length of over the opportunity to introduce our as the living voice of our current 1.5 meters (59 inches) Elders Council. This research will Committee. We look forward to future discussions with everyone. and weigh over 15 kilo- be done by our committee and we grams (33 pounds). Their have asked our Naa Shaade Hani Have a great spring and coming and Executive Council to facilitate summer. wingspans can be over 3.1 access to the valuable documents Gunalcheesh - Bob Magill meters (10 feet). and historic tapings of our Elders and citizens. We will reach out to Chair, WCLCM the Sealaska Heritage Foundation and to organizations within Yukon like CYFN and Yukon Archives. Northern Native Broadcasting Yukon, Haa Shagoon and CHON FM will have valuable records we can access. Internally, TTC had undertaken research in the areas of language and culture, administration of justice, BC Claims negotiations, etc. which can support the work of the Committee. We are developing a research framework so we don’t get lost in the ocean of research available to us. This work is both exciting and at times overwhelming when we think about the large task we have been assigned. We will continue to give updates in the Deslin Neek and to General Council. Clan consultation is also a priority so please come out to our meetings. We want to hear your voice. This is your Charter, and it has to be an expression of what you want. The reason TTC has initiated author: inknown this work is to help our citizens return to the principles of Haa Deslin Neek • Issue 62 March/April 2021 General Council Resolutions

Non-Governmental Assets GC $348,994.00 and Virtual) Resolutions Whereas The TTC Trust issued the Whereas Teslin Tlingit Council is NGA GC – February 18th, 2021 TTC a grid promissory note dated exercising protective measures, November 29, 2006 in the amount informed by the Yukon Chief Medical Resolution # 002 - passed of $30,000,000.00 (‘the promissory Officer’s directives, to safeguard NGA General Council Procedures (in note’) and which currently has a the health of Teslin Tlingit, staff and person and virtual) balance owing of approximately contractors in response to the Covid $21,514,149.00 as of December 19 pandemic. The GC is scheduled Whereas Teslin Tlingit Council is 31, 2020. The promissory note is to meet, with some members and exercising protective measures, evidence of a debt the Trust owes support staff attending the Heritage informed by the Yukon Chief Medical to TTC. The Executive Council is Centre and others located in other Officer’s directives, to safeguard requesting that the General Council TTC facilities, supported with the the health of Teslin Tlingit, staff and approve a demand notice to the use of video and teleconferencing contractors in response to the COVID Trust to issue payment on the measures. 19 pandemic. promissory note in maximum amount $348,994.00 to address the following Therefore be it resolved that the Therefore be it resolved that the TTC anticipated expenditures: a) General Council authorizes the General Council authorizes the $248,994.00 to provide TTC with meeting procedures be conducted in meeting procedures of February 18, resources to provide monthly person and virtually with the support 2021 be conducted in person and payments to TTC Elders as described of video or teleconferencing methods virtually with the support of video or in the TTC 2021/22 Budget. And; b) provided that a)all GC members teleconferencing methods provided $100,000.00 to enable TTC to provide and the Speaker participating in that a) all GC members and the additional programs and services as the meeting can communicate with Speaker participating in the meeting described in the TTC 2021/22 Budget one another, and b) GC members can communicate with one another, (including Back to the Land, Arts & participating in the meeting in and b) a GC member participating Culture, Executive Donation, Artist accordance with this resolution be in the meeting in accordance with Assistance Grants and Elders Wood). deemed present at the meeting, this resolution will be deemed to to have so consented, counted be present at GC, deemed to have Therefore be it resolved that the in quorum and entitled to speak so consented, counted in quorum, General Council approve that a and vote in accordance with the entitled to speak and vote in demand notice be issued to the Constitution, as if they were in the accordance with the Constitution and Trust to issue payment on the same location. rules of procedures as if they were in promissory note in maximum amount the same location. 4348,994.00 to be applied to the Resolution #003 - passed TTC 2021/22 Specified Expenditures. Approval of Annual General Council Resolution #003 - passed Be it further resolved that when Assembly Minutes: November 19-20, the Executive Council seeks access Approval of NGA Minutes (February 2020. 2019) to the $348,994.00 to provide a written notice to the TTC Trust at Whereas the GC received, and Whereas the General Council received least 8 weeks in advance in order to reviewed the GC minutes for and reviewed the NGA GC minutes convert assets required to respond to November 2020, there are no for February 19, 2019. There were no the financial request and avoid any corrections, omissions or changes to additions, deletions or qualifications negative impacts to the return on GC minutes. added. Therefore be it resolved that investment to the NGA Asset people. the GC approves the NGA GC minutes Therefore be it resolved that the GC as was presented. General Council Resolutions approves the GC minutes as revised/ presented. Resolution #004 - passed February 19, 2021 Payment on Teslin Tlingit Council Trust Resolution #002 - passed grid Promissory Note: Request for General Council Procedures (in Person 8 Deslin Neek • Issue 62 March/April 2021 Resolution #005 - passed Covid 19 pandemic. The General Resolution # 003 – Withdrawn & Council holds regular meetings to Incorporated into resolution # 004 – TTC Community Services Building: conduct government business with March 31, 2021 - passed Class C Budget Approval members that support staff attending at TTC facilities and other locations, Resolution #004 – passed Whereas the GC mandated Executive supported with the use of video and Council to begin preparations and TTC Annual Operating Budget teleconferencing measures. The TTC identify financial resources to Estimates 2021-2022 Fiscal Year Constitution is silent on the use of construct a new administration and Future TTC Budgetary and electronic or virtual measures for the building (TTC community services Consultation Processes purpose of conducting GC business. building). The GC authorized the Section 10.9(g) of the TTC Constitution Executive Council to access an The budget of TTC belongs to its confirms that GC has the authority existing TTC line of credit to fund the citizens. All funds received by TTC to make rules and regulations in architectural design and planning whether from our FTA, the Trust, a respect of any matter affecting good costs of the TTC administration Contribution Agreement or our Own government and well-being of TTC. building, up to a maximum of Source Revenue, is funding provided Executive Council recommends that $2.2M plus interest. TTC retained for governance and program and the TTC General Council: Rules of professional services of DNA/KZA as services for the benefit of all Teslin Procedures (July 2016)(GC Rules) be the architects to design the proposed Tlingit Citizens. Section 10.9(c) amended to include provisions that TTC community services building. of the Teslin Tlingit Constitution authorize GC meeting procedures DNA/KZA provided GC with a states that GC has the power to to be conducted in person and presentation on the projected budget provide for management systems, virtually with support of video or to construct the community services including financial management, teleconferencing methods. building. audits and publications of reports by all governing bodies to show Therefore be it resolved that the GC Therefore be it resolved A) GC their accountability to TTC citizens. approves the following provisions to approves the class C Estimates as GC members must be provided be incorporated as the new section 5 presented by DNA/KZA and authorizes the details of the TTC fiscal budget of the GC Rules titled ‘General Council the DNA/KZA continue the design in a timely fashion, to review and Procedures (Virtual Participation)’. work and prepare the drawings for provide information to Clan members tender purposes. B) DNA/KZA provide A) GC Meetings can be to obtain informed consent, the final Class A cost estimates to the conducted with the assistance of GC members are unable to be general Council at the Annual General video or teleconferencing methods; accountable to their Clan members Council Assembly scheduled for July based on the current budget 2021. B) A GC member, confirmed by timelines. The Executive Council their respective Clan and recognized presented an Operational Budget Therefore be it further resolved that by the Speaker, participating by estimate for 2021-22 in the amount of Executive Council provide financial way of video or teleconference will $21,342,047.00 to the GC on Feb.19, proposal to General Council at the be considered to be present at the 2021;and the EC has identified that AGA scheduled for July 2021 to GC meeting, be counted as part of there are confirmed revenues for the confirm how TTC’s contribution of quorum and be entitled to speak and 2021-22 fiscal year ($19,513,280.00) $11.5M will be funded. vote in the meeting as authorized by resulting in a budget shortfall in Constitution; and the amount 0f $1,828,767.00. TTC March 31st, 2021 Resolutions experienced a shortfall in revenues C) GC members participating by Resolution # 002 - passed for the 2020-21 fiscal year because way of video or teleconference are the monies that were intended to be Whereas Teslin Tlingit Council is bound by the rules of procedures. withdrawn from the Trust were not exercising protective measures, Therefore, be it further resolved that authorized by GC as the NGA GC was informed by the Yukon Chief Medical the GC adopts these rules effective cancelled due to Covid considerations. Officer’s directives, to safeguard March 31, 2021 and that the rules be con’t the health of Teslin Tlingit, staff cited as TTC: General Council Rules of and contractors in response to the Procedures, March 31, 2021. Deslin Neek • Issue 62 March/April 2021 Resolutions con’t

The EC is requesting GC approve a Whereas on September 24, 2020, the beginning stages of developing demand notice to the Trust to issue in accordance with Resolution #009 the legal draft of Haa Kusteeyi ans payment on the promissory note to (2020.09.24) the GC established the will not have enough time to submit TTC; and EC recommends that monies Working Committee on legislation the proposed act to Executive be applied to the 2021-22 Operational and constitutional matters consisting Council. The WCLCM has met with Budget estimates thereby eliminating of five clan representatives, and the Elders Council in which the Elders the budget shortfall. The EC is also representatives from Elders Council unanimously support the WCLCM recommending the GC approve the and Youth Council. The Elders seat has request to GC to extend timeline for Operational Budget in the amount become vacant and the Elders Council completion of the Haa Kusteeyi work. $21,342,047.00. The GC has the identified George Henry to serve as a Therefore be it resolved that the authority to approve the budget representative for the duration of the GC accepts the WCLCM Terms of expenditures; GC requested additional term. George Henry acknowledges the Reference (draft – March 25, 2021) time to consider the Operational appointment and consents to serve on and GC extends the mandate timeline Budget and deferred final review and the committee. for the Haa Kussteey work. approval. The EC office held a public Therefore be it resolved that the GC Resolution #007 – passed consultation on the Budget on March confirms George henry as the Elders 8, 2021. Council representative on the working Working Committee on Legislation Therefore be it resolved that the committee to serve until July 2023. and Constitutional Matters EC is mandated by the GC to do the Honorarium Rate Resolution #006 – passed following work and report its progress Whereas the honorarium rates to the Annual General Assembly Working Committee on Legislation for Committees created by GC are (2021); and Constitutional Matters Terms of established by the GC honorarium Reference and Mandate Amendment - Prepare and recommend rate schedule. The April 1, 2020 GC to GC a budgeting process which Whereas the Working Committee rate schedule assigns rates for GC provides openness, accountability, on Legislation and Constitutional members, full or half days, and based transparency, and fairness to all TTC Matters (WCLCM) was on members with or without the First citizens. created and mandated by GC Nation Leadership Training, which Resolutions (res#2020.07.00.004, has 3 modules(terms) of training. The - Review the current citizenship res#2020.09.24.009 and WCLCM currently receives the rate consultation processes employed by #2020.12.14.003). The WCLCM available for first term GC members TTC with a view to recommending a mandate includes these objectives; who have not received the FN process which encourages maximum Complete the legal and technical Leadership training. The honorarium citizen input, combining various drafting of Haa Kusteeyi and present for this status is $307.20-#372.20 consultation initiatives and consulting it to the 2021 AGA; Complete a depending on terms served. The FN in a TTC citizen’s forum. comprehensive legislative review leadership training is not accessible GC authorizes that a demand notice of the Naa Shaade Hani awe kaa to WCLCM members who live outside be issued to the TTC Trust to issue wudsageedi (election of a leader) and Yukon. Current WCLCM members have payment on the promissory note in review of the 2020 leadership election well developed professional skills, amount of 4327,370.00 be applied process; develop recommendations extensive working histories in areas of as provided in the TTC 2020/21 to govern the 2024 selection process Haa Kusteeyi traditional knowledge, operating Budget. GC also authorizes and provide recommendations to corporate knowledge, Indigenous legal the application of the monies as set 2023 AGA; Review the Constitution rights, communications, research/ out above, to eliminate the projected with a purpose to provide writing, education, Administrative shortfall and hereby approves the recommendations to strengthen law, archival work and Council/Board Operational Budget in the amount of the clan-based government; and experience. The GC mandated the $21,342,047.00. participate in briefings to the TTC, EC WCLCM to work on three high level on TTC’s application to intervene In priorities of the TTC. The WCLCM feel Resolution #005 – passed the VGFN appeal. GC resolution #009 an honorarium rate of $400.00 per Working Committee on Legislation (2020.09.24) requires the WCLCM day is a reasonable and justifiable and Constitutional Matters: Elder to develop and present Terms of rate for its members for the fiscal year Council Representative Reference (TOR). The WCLCM is at 2021/22. 10 Deslin Neek • Issue 62 March/April 2021 Residency Grant Information

Therefore be it resolved that the GC approves the WCLCM honorarium rate WHAT: HOW at $400.00 perday and will be payable TTC takes great pride in providing Apply for the Residency Grant at to the WCLCM retroactive to its first programs and services to its TTC Finance Department before meeting in November 2020 and citizens and the community September 30. onward for 2021/22 ofTeslin. Running an effective and Once you receive your Revenue Resolution #008 - Withdrawn efficient government takes funds. One way that TTC obtains funds is Canada Tax Assessment, provide Mandate for a TTC Projects through Personal Income Tax (PIT). this to TTC Finance Department, Contractors Coordination Manager – TTC has an Income Tax sharing with your application for the Teslin Based Opportunities agreement with both Canada Residency grant, on or before September 30th. Your tax Therefore be it resolved that GC and Government of Yukon. This supports the creation of the TTC means that 95% of the income tax assessment identifies the amount Projects Contractor Coordination paid to the federal or territorial of income tax you paid for the First Manager position and approves the government by individuals, both Nation Tax. TTC Projects Contractor Coordination Citizens and non-Citizens, living Manager Mandate. You will receive a Residency Grant on TTC Settlement Land will be cheque from TTC by December 21. Resolution #009 – passed collected by TTC. ANYONE living on TTC Settle- Justice Council Appointments TTC in turn, will give individuals ment Land. They need to let residing on settlement land and their Tax Preparers know to Whereas the GC amended the TT having paid income tax, 10% of Constitution to increase the size of check the “ yes” box on their their Yukon First Nation portion of Justice Council to seven members, five 2020 Income Tax Returns and their income tax payment th rough clan members, one Elder Council and enter TTC’s #11011. one Youth Council member. Currently the Residency Grant Initiative. the Elders and Youth Councils are vacant. The Youth has nominated Billy WHO This will result in some of Smarch and the Elders Council has their Tax money coming back nominated Darcy Kerr to serve on the •Have your primary residence on Justice Council. TTC Settlement Land on December to TTC of which they’ll get 31st, 10%. If there is an amount Therefore be it resolved that Billy recorded on line 432 of their Smarch and Darcy Kerr have both • Have taxable income, confirmed their interests and are in tax return. This info will be agreement to serve. Both Billy Smarch •Complete and submit your tax NEEDED for the Sept 30th and Darcy Kerr understand their return to CRA (Canada Revenue Residency Grant Application obligations to uphold their duties, Agency) indicating that you live on later in the year. responsibilities and authorities. TTC Settlement Land, Therefore be it further resolved that • To indicate to CRA you live on NOT sure if you’re on settle- Bill Smarch and Darcy Kerr are hereby TTC Settlement Land you must confirmed as the Youth Council and ment land? To see if you’re on complete the Yukon First Nation Elders Council representatives on the the list of entitled applicants? Justice Council, respectively. information box on your income tax return form and enter TTC’s For more information Contact identification number 11011. Bernie Morris @ Ext: 341 OR Darryl Kremer @ Ext:343.

Deslin Neek • Issue 62 March/April 2021 First Nation Arts Program - Yukon University

Photos Courtesy of: Teresa Ward and Minne Clark.

Crafts and displays created by the Arts & Culture Students Yukon University

12 Deslin Neek • Issue 62 March/April 2021 Deslin Neek • Issue 62 March/April 2021 2021 62 March/April • Issue Deslin Neek

Absolutely beautiful creations! Congratulations Class! Coloring Page - Sunday May 9th

14 Deslin Neek • Issue 62 March/April 2021 Covid - Moderna Vaccine - What to know!

Sleeves up, Yukon. The future is procedures. In the study, side effects included looking bright. one or more of the following: Your health-care provider may A safe and effective COVID-19 recommend that you receive the pain, redness or swelling where vaccine has arrived in Yukon and vaccine lying down to prevent the needle was given, tiredness, suddenly there’s light on the fainting. headache, muscle pain, joint pain, horizon. nausea/vomitting, chills, fever or • You have a bleeding disorder or enlarges lymph nodes (swollen Vaccine clinics have now begun are taking medication that could glands) in the underarm. in some rural Yukon communities affect blood clotting. and limited clinics have started in Allergic reactions can rarely . This information will help the occur after receiving a vaccine. health-care provider prevent Symptoms of an allergic reaction COVID-19 Vaccine Information bleeding or bruising from the include hives (bumps on the skin needle. Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine that are often very itchy), swelling * Polyethylene glycol (PEG) can of your face, tongue or throat, (mRNA-1273 SARS-CoV-2 vaccine) rarely cause allergic reactions or difficulty breathing. The clinic staff are prepared to manage an How does the Moderna vaccine and is found in products such as medications, bowel preparation allergic reaction should it occur. protect against COVID-19? products for colonoscopy, laxatives, Seek immediate medical care if you cough syrups, cosmetics, skin develop any of these symptoms. • The vaccine causes our body creams, medical products used on to produce protection (such as What should I do before the skin and during operations, antibodies) to help keep us from coming to the clinic? toothpaste, contact lenses and becoming sick if we are exposed • Wear a short-sleeve shirt or top contact lens solution. PEG also tothe COVID-19 virus. The with sleeves that are easy to roll can be found in foods or drinks, vaccine uses a new method called up. • To prevent feeling faint while but is not known to cause allergic messenger RNA (mRNA) to help being vaccinated, have something reactions from foods or drinks. our body protect itself from the to eat before coming to the clinic. virus. What are the risks of the vaccine? • Bring your mask. • Bring any In a large study, half of the people identification required by the Who can and cannot receive the who received the Moderna vaccine clinic, such as your health card. COVID-19 vaccine at this time? were monitored for at least two • Bring your immunization record months and no serious side effects with you and/or download the • If you have any symptoms that have been found to date. People CANImmunize app to keep track of could be due to COVID-19, you who have received the vaccine in this and other vaccines.• You will should not go out to get vaccinated studies continue to be monitored be provided with a paper COVID-19 because you could spread the for any longer-term side effects. Immunization Record. infection to others. Talk with your Side effects can develop within To learn more, visit: health-care provider, or call 811 a day or two after receiving the about your symptoms and getting vaccine. Although these side https://yukon.ca/en/moderna- a COVID-19 test. Your health-care effects are not serious to your vaccine-information provider will advise you if and health, they may make you feel when you are able to receive the unwell for about one to three vaccine. days; they will go away on their Tell the health-care provider if: own. These types of side effects are expected and can indicate • You have fainted or felt faint after the vaccine is working to produce receiving past vaccines or medical protection. Deslin Neek • Issue 62 March/April 2021 Coming Programming

Shakaat Artist Residency Program Are you interested in becoming an Artist-in-Residence this summer at the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre?

The Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre is proud to once again invite Indigenous artists to apply to our annual Artist-in-Residence Program. This is a paid, community-based program that encourages, supports and showcases Indigenous art and provides opportunity for the visiting public to engage with Indigenous artists. The program will take place during the 2021 summer season in the KDCC’s Culture Cabins.

Artists will be required to set up their studio for a three-week period, and throughout this time, demonstrate their art form at the KDCC. During their time at the Centre, the artist will also deliver a workshop that is open to the public, participate in a social media takeover and create a piece for a Fall opening exhibit at KDCC.

Who Should Apply? Application is open to traditional, contemporary, emerging and master Indigenous artists that practice visual arts, fashion, traditional crafts, dancing, drumming or other art forms.

Application Deadline: Friday, April 23, 2021 To apply online, please visit our website at www.kdcc.ca/shakaat For more information, call 867-456-5322 or email [email protected]

Student Education Financial Assistance Deadline For all eligible Teslin Tlingit Council Citizens new applicants or returning students interested in attending a Fall & Winter semester beginning in September at a recognized post-secondary institution Applications will be accepted no later than 5:00pm Yukon Time on May 15, 2021 Late applications will be deferred to the next intake in November 2021 APPLY EARLY! Applications will be marked “pending” if acceptance letter unavailable Please email, mail, or fax applications to: TTC Community Skills Development Manager Teslin Tlingit Council Box 133, Teslin YT, Y0A 1B0 Phone: 867-390-2532 ext: 318/Fax: 867-390-2176 Email: [email protected] 16 Deslin Neek • Issue 62 March/April 2021 Yukon University

Teslin Campus

The Teslin Campus is hosting a series of safety courses this winter and spring. For more information and to register, contact the Teslin Campus at 867 390 8800 or [email protected].

To reduce the cost of the course to participants, the Teslin Community Campus Committee and Teslin Training Fund have subsidized many of the courses.

March 30 WHMIS | $95 +gst 8:30am-Noon March 30 Transportation of Dangerous Goods | $95 +gst 1-5:30pm Greenhouse Design for Northern March 31 Fall Protection | $195 +gst 9am - 5pm Climates (with Bob Sharp) April 1 Bobcat Operator Training | $249 +gst 8:30am-12:30pm May 2|10am-2:00pm

April 1 Bobcat Operator Training | $249 +gst Sunday 1:30-5:30pm Free course! The Teslin Community Campus April 7 & 8 Standard First Aid/CPR-C | $195 (no gst) Committee (TCCC) is sponsoring this course. 9am-6pm April 27 & 28 Yukon Traffic Control Person | $365 +gst 9am-5pm This course covers the range of greenhouse structures you can build or buy, and examines some of the drawbacks and May 4-6 Chainsaw Operations, Safety, & Maintenance | $500 +gst 9am-5pm advantages of each. Also included are how to orient the beds, choice of watering systems, glazing materials and preferred greenhouse locations. The course will look at a number of Other Standard First Aid - May (if there is enough interest) methods of regulating heat through low-cost passive systems, courses: Food Safe - Contact the campus for options heat storage systems and air circulation processes. Types of construction, ventilation, heating, and materials to use for covering will also be discussed in this information-rich workshop.

PHONE 867 390 8800 For more information and to register, EMAIL [email protected] contact the Teslin Campus at 867 390 8800 or WEB YukonU.ca/teslin [email protected]

TTC Citizenship Registrar

Hello Citizens, new born babies or and com my work contact is I am currently the Acting children that have been 1-867-390-2532 ext. 324 Citizenship Registrar for born in the past 4 years. It Gunalcheesh to all of our Teslin Tlingit Council. I am is very important that we citizens, take care and working on updating our get all our citizens enrolled be safe always use hand system and would like all and keep our records in sanitizer and your mask. good standing order and citizens who have moved Martina Baker recently to please contact all updates will be greatly Acting Citizenship Registrar me and give me their appreciated. If there or any current addresses. There questions, comments or Teslin Tlingit Council is Citizenship forms that concerns please contact me (867) 390-2532 Ext:324 can be filled out for any at any time my work email is martina.baker@ttc-teslin. Deslin Neek • Issue 62 March/April 2021 Announcements

18 Deslin Neek • Issue 62 March/April 2021 Deslin Neek • Issue 62 March/April 2021 Congratulations

Congratulations to Winston Daniel Albert Jackson for becoming a Member of the Canadian Armed Forces For the Navy! He filled out an application and was accepted for the Armed Forces Meet the new DDC Board! then COVID 19 hit just when he was getting ready to start his basic Teslin Tlingit Council training for the Army, therefore his Executive Council has elected the start date kept being pushed back. current DDC Board members: Kathryn Porter – Chair He then changes his mind about Dave Hett – Vice Chair the Army and filled out an Danielle Sheldon – Secretary/Trea- application and was accepted for surer the Navy. John Burdek In December 2020, he signed a Riel Sidney letter of employment with the Gus Jules Canadian Armed Forces for the Ben Clark Navy, for the nextfour years. Karen Keenan January 15, 2021, TTC’s Executive Tim Dewhurst Council and Management Board wished him well and gave him what monies was collected to help him while being in Calgary, Alberta. From the bottom of our hearts, we want to say thank you and Winston Save the Dates appreciated just how much Teslin cares for its citizens. Elders Council In January, Winston received an Meetings: email stating his enrollment date is in February2021! Winston soon • April 30, 2021 was sworn into and is certified into • May 18 - 19, 2021 the Armed Forces, in which he had to go to Victoria, BC. After two • June 23 - 24, 2021 weeks isolation, Winston started Confirmation notices will his 10 weeks of training. be sent as we get closer Congradulations Bud! I am so to dates. proud and extremely happy for For further information, you! You wanted to do this, you contact: are and you made it all on your own. Every step that needed to be taken, you took and now your efforts are paying off! Love you always....xoxo Mom

20 Deslin Neek • Issue 62 March/April 2021 Custom Hats for sale! Pick your colors!!

Please contact Dalyce for orders,

867-332-0356

Deslin Neek • Issue 62 March/April 2021 Obituary

SLANG: Lena. It is with great sadness motel with rooms, restaurant, cocktail that we share the passing of our lounge, gift shop and a gas station for extraordinary Mother Lena Slang (nee 7 years. It was here that Lena became Rudolf )on February 7, 2021. At the known all along the age of 91 Mom passed away peacefully for her delicious homemade pies. She at Kelowna General Hospital with her would be awake and baking by 4:30 am family by her side. to ensure that those fresh pies were out Predeceased by the love of her life, in time for the tourists to enjoy while Rolf (1923-2004), Lena is survived travelling through Teslin. by her daughter Gale (Tom) and two Besides taking great pride in being a brothers Gary and Hans (Laura). cook, Lena was a skilled knitter, oil Mom has gone to join her family who painter and cake decorator. She won went before her including her beloved several cake decorating contests and parents Mabel and Herman Rudolf, her sold a number of her paintings of the stepfather Ingmund Johnson, brother Northern landscapes and wildlife. into Cottonwoods Care Centre and Charley and sisters Lillyan, Laura and Her character traits such as patience remained there for the past two years. Olga. She will be forever missed by , selflessness, generosity and warmth Her amazing life should be celebrated her sisters Liz and Ingrid, her brother shone through in everything she did. and remembered as one filled with Albert, her 6 grandchildren Shauntel, Dad and Mom enjoyed travelling, love and compassion. Lena was a Danielle, Tommy, Lucas, Corbin, camping, fishing and dancing together remarkable woman. Wherever she Shelby. Remembering her are family . They travelled to Norway 7 times went, her kindness left an everlasting in Canada and Norway and lifelong and also ventured across Canada impression on you. Her faith in God friends in the Yukon, BC and Costa and throughout the United States. was strong and she always believed Rica. Hawaii and Reno were among some in being a good person. It’s truly an Lena was born on the Nisutlin River, of their favorite places to visit. No honour to call her our Mother. seventy miles from Teslin,Yukon on matter where they went together they Our family would like to give our May 24,1929. She grew up in the home were always seen smiling and holding sincere thanks to all the staff at cabin and later lived in Atlin, Teslin, hands. Cottonwoods for all the wonderful Gladys lake and Whitehorse. After Rolf and Lena sold the motel in care they gave her during the last two finishing school , Mom worked for 1973, retired and moved our family years of her life. Thank you also to the many years in a grocery store in Atlin to Kelowna. Three years later Dad special friends who took time over and eventually opened up her own cafe decided to take us on an adventure. the years to bring her coffee and her called “Lena’s Place”. He bought a motor home and drove favorite donuts. Your thoughtfulness Mom had the most beautiful soul. our family south to Costa Rica where brought the biggest smiles to her sweet You just couldn’t help but love her. we lived for three wonderful years. In face. Dad came to the Yukon from Norway 1979 we moved back to Kelowna and If flowers grow in heaven, Lord please in 1954 in search of gold. Instead he lived in the Okanagan Mission area pick a bunch for us. found Lena, his greatest treasure who until 1997. Mom and Dad bought had a true heart of gold. Mom and a condominium downtown where Place them in our Mother’s arms and Dad were married on December 15, they lived together for 7 years until tell her they’re from us. 1961 at Teslin Anglican Church. They Dad passed away at the age of 80. For Tell her we love her and miss her and lived the first years of their married life the next 14 years Mom lived alone, when she turns to smile, in Atlin and then Whitehorse where however she was always surrounded Place a kiss on her cheek and hold her they owned a gas station and tire shop. by family and friends. A few times for awhile. Twin babies Gale and Gary were born each year she would venture down to in 1962. Two years later they were Vancouver to stay for extended visits We have a Guardian Angel in Heaven, blessed with another son, Hans. In with Gale and Gary. In 2016 Lena we call her Mom. 1965, Rolf and Lena moved the family moved into a seniors home where she Condolences may be sent to to Teslin, where Dad built the Yukon lived for the next three years. After an the family by visiting www. Motel. Together they operated the unfortunate fall, Mom was moved firstmemorialfuneralkelowna.com

22 Deslin Neek • Issue 62 March/April 2021 Announcements

Birthday/Anniversaries

March 30th, “Happy Birthday Tom, Lordy, Lordy looks who is 40! lots of love, Mom!” Happy Birthday Tammy and many Happy Birthday Ben Clark, wishing more! you all the BEST and many more Happy 19th birthdays to Tamika from your friends and family. and Savana!! xox

A huge thank you for the Elders Wood Program!

Thank you to these two gentleman for all their time and work!

Deslin Neek • Issue 62 March/April 2021 Deslin Neek The voice of the Teslin Tlingit Council Issue 62 April 2021

Deslin Neek welcomes comments, submissions, letters and photographs. We are also available for community announcements Attention and promotions through free advertising. Please note, we reserve TTC Citizens the right to edit submissions for accuracy, length and relevance. TTC continues to update its This newsletter aims to inform Citizens about what is happening Citizen Mailing Addresses, Email Addresses and phone numbers. in your Government. Get in touch, let us know what you would like to see included. If any of your contact information has changed and you would like Editor: TTC to have it, please email Communications Coordinator [email protected] or call 867-390-2532 ext 300 Jade McGinty & Charles Jules Communications Unit 867.390.2532 ext 306/309 [email protected] • [email protected]

Deslin Neek is published in house and bi-monthly by the Teslin Tlingit Council. © Teslin Tlingit Council Thanks to all those who submitted photos for this issue. As there PO Box 133 Teslin, YT Y0A were too many to name we would still like to Thank you all. Please 1B0 keep them coming in. 867.390.2532 ttc-teslin.com