Choo-kwa Ventures holds grand opening

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Hupacasath Chief Judith Sayers thanked everyone for coming to the official opening of Choo-kwa Ventures early this summer, and she stated their support and interest is appreciated.

The reason "Choo-kwa" was chosen as the name for the canoe adventures business is because it means, "come here."

Sayers said, "We want everyone to learn about Hupacasath First Nation."

Ed Tattoosh said the opening prayer, and then he and Robert Dennis Jr. blessed two new canoes.

Rodney Sayers designed the beautiful artwork on them. The black canoe has a sea serpent design on its bow, and the white canoe has an eagle design gracing its bow.

Each canoe's capacity is 14 people, which will include the two or three canoe guides who accompany tours.

Guest speaker Ken McRae, mayor of Port Alberni, stated that it has been a long time since canoes were seen on the river. It has been more than 50 years since he saw canoes racing during Labour Day weekend.

The First Nation figures that as more than one million people travel to Long Beach each year, this is an excellent opportunity to attract tourists to learn about Hupacasath culture. As well, this is one way to boost economic development for First Nation's people.

Clatilda Roberts, Rose Tatoosh, and Jessie Hamilton cut the cedar bark ribbon to officially open the gift shop.

One can purchase items designed by Nuu-chah-nulth artists there - items such as tee-shirts, dreamcatchers, necklaces or carvings. The gift shop is located near the Hupacasath band office.

Joy Hamilton and Aaron Hamilton are the two friendly clerks who work there.

Nelson Keitlah put forward congratulations on behalf of the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council and extended very best wishes on this venture. He said, "We're very proud to hear Hupacasath young men sing their songs so proudly. We are proud of this special day."

Chief Sayers thanked the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council, its employment and training board, the Nuu-chah-nulth Economic Development Corporation and the Port Alberni Chamber of Commerce for setting up the business venture.

She encouraged audience members to participate in the paddle song as the canoes were carried to the river.

They could stand on the dock where Robin Williams and Al Pacino filmed Insomnia last year.

After the canoes were in the river and everyone had lunch, guests could enjoy a canoe tour that was free only for opening day. People eagerly lined up and waited their turn. They were outfitted with vests and canoe guides explained what to do and not do while they were in the canoe.

For information regarding tours, phone 250-724-4006.