Six Nations Polytechnic (SNP) is pleased to announce another historic milestone for SNP with the accreditation of the advanced diploma in Ǫgwehǫweh Language (ADOL) through the Indigenous Advanced Education and Skills Council (IAESC).
This milestone marks the first time a standalone advanced diploma in Ǫgwehǫweh language has been granted by an Indigenous institution.
“Language acquisition remains a goal within the Six Nations of the Grand River community,” Six Nations Polytechnic said in a press release. “To revitalize these languages, many institutes within the community, including Six Nations Polytechnic, are currently offering programs that immerse learners in the culture and knowledge carried through our languages. This program’s existence is in response to the
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community’s need and demand for opportunities to continue language learning at a more advanced level.”
The Advanced Diploma in Ǫgwehǫweh Language Program offers learners two years of study and over 2400 hours of immersion language instruction.
The program is offered at the Six Nations Campus, in a cohort delivery
that focuses on one of the Ǫgwehǫweh languages in each cohort program cycle.
Upon successful completion of the program, students will obtain an advanced diploma in an Ǫgwehǫweh Language, in one of the following streams:
-Cayuga Language – Gayogo̱hǫ́:nǫ’ Gawęnǫdahgǫh -Onondaga Language –Onoda’gega’
-Mohawk Language –Kanienke:ha -Oneida Language –On^yota’a:ka -Seneca Language –Onödowa’ga: Gawë:no’ -Tuscarora Language –Skarò˙rə̨ˀ
“SNP’s vision is to achieve international distinction for excellence in Indigenous education, Indigenous language revitalization, and continuance of Indigenous
knowledge,” said Robin Staats, Dean of Language, Culture and Lifelong Learning. “The Advanced Diploma in Ǫgwehǫweh Language is one more step that SNP is taking towards the critical development of quality assured Ǫgwehǫweh language programs and language revitalization.”
Rebecca Jamieson, President and CEO of Six Nations Polytechnic, said, “The Advanced Diploma in Ǫgwehǫweh Language adds to the growing suite of language programs at SNP and has been intentionally designed to support advanced language proficiency. Many community members have contributed to the development and accreditation of the ADOL, so on behalf of SNP, I extend our sincere gratitude.”
In the fall of 2026, the Gayogo̱hǫ́:nǫ’ Gawęnǫdahgǫh (Cayuga language stream) will be offered full-time, incorporating suggestions from the community, students, and instructors.
Six Nations Polytechnic has a vision to achieve international distinction for excellence in Indigenous education, language revitalization and knowledge. FILE
National Chief and First Nations leaders gather for annual general assembly
The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) Annual General Assembly (AGA) will be held from September 3 to 5, at the RBC Convention Centre in Winnipeg, located on Treaty One lands, the original territories of the Anishinaabe, Cree, Anisininew, Dakota, Lakota, Dene peoples.
National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak, alongside regional chiefs and other leadership, held a press conference on September 2 in advance of the AGA opening. Topics included First Nations priorities, expectations for the AGA and comments on Bill C-5, the Major Projects Office, and the One Canadian Economy Act.
The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is a national advocacy organization that works to advance the collective aspirations of First Nations individuals
and communities across Canada on matters of national or international nature and concern.
Woodhouse Nepinak was born and raised in Pinaymootang First Nation, Man. Her ancestor, Chief Richard Woodhouse, was an original signatory of Treaty No.2. She began her term as National
al Leaders program. In 2021, she was elected as the Regional Chief for the AFN Manitoba Region. During her tenure, she was the lead negotiator for the First Nations Child and Family Services and Jordan’s Principle class action lawsuit, which resulted in over $40 billion compensation for First Nations children and families.
Chief of the Assembly of First Nations on December 7, 2023, becoming the youngest woman and mother to hold the position.
Woodhouse Nepinak holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Winnipeg and has completed Harvard Business School’s Trib-
Throughout her career, National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak has accumulated a wealth of experience lobbying the Senate, House of Commons, Cabinet Ministers, and the Prime Minister’s Office to fulfill mandates from Chiefs. She continues to advocate for First Nations priorities, as directed by the First Nations-in-Assembly collaboratively with First Nations leadership, to protect collective rights–Treaty, inherent rights, title and jurisdiction, the right to self-determination, and all human rights.
The Assembly of First Nations is a national advocacy organization that seeks to advance Indigenous communities acrosss Canada. FILE
Sixth Line at Onondaga locked down over active shooter incident
DONNA DURIC
Community members on Sixth Line Road near Onondaga Road were told to shelter in place on Saturday as they investigated reports of an armed person in the area.
The shelter-in-place order was initiated early Saturday morning as both Six Nations Police and OPP responded to reports of an armed person in the area.
Canine and aviation resources were deployed during the lock down.
OPP said in a statement that a “higher-than-normal police presence remains in the area. We will advise when it has been lifted. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as officers work to resolve this situation.”
The incident started before 8 a.m. in the area of Onondaga Road and Sixth Line where police said they were responding to a public disturbance at a residence in the area.
Area residents were asked to lock their windows and doors and shelter-in-place, as an armed suspect was in the area.
Drivers were also to avoid the area and to expect a higher-than-normal police presence.
As a precaution, police had advised that those outside take shelter immediately in a nearby building or another secure location.
Residents were asked to lock their doors and windows if they were in a building and to close their curtains to avoid drawing attention to themselves or their family.
The public was advised if they encountered the individual not to engage
or approach and to call police immediately.
Drivers were told to stay away from the area and not to engage with anyone suspicious, as well as follow all directions from the officers on site.
People not in the immediate area were asked not to drive to the area.
“We recognize the significant emotional impact that receiving a shelter-in-place advisory can cause,” the OPP said.
“The OPP is taking every precaution necessary to resolve this situation. We ask all members of the public to take actions to protect their safety while police work to apprehend the individual.”
The shelter-in-place was lifted just after 10 a.m.
Six Nations Police Service and the OPP continued to investigate the incident throughout the day.
Paris Legion 29 Anniversary Committee member Cheryl Humphrey discusses Donna Campbell's fibre art quilt with Paris Fair visitors on Monday September 1, 2025. The Paris Royal Canadian Legion Branch 29 is preparing to mark a milestone of
Fall art classes at Glenhyrst
Glenhyrst Art Gallery of Brant is pleased to announce their Fall Classes and Workshops for Adults, Youth and Children.
“We are excited to offer another season of exciting classes. Many mediums and instructors to choose from. Try something new at Glenhyrst today!” says Ana Olson, Gallery Director.
Please go to www.glenhyrst.ca for a FULL listing of classes and more info about classes. Get a glimpse of what we offer below.
Teen Classes: Figure
Drawing for Teens
New Dates! Tuesdays Sept 23 to Oct 28
Duration: 6 weeks
Time: 6 pm -8 pm
Ages: 13-17
New Price: Non-Member
$90, Member: $80
Instructor: Morgan Kazi
Location: Coach House
Join us for our new figure drawing class for teens. This program is designed to inspire and develop artistic skills in young people, with a new focus each week— eg: gesture, proportion, contour, form. Our supportive environment encour-
ages teens to explore and refine their unique style while experimenting with various mediums like pencils, pens, charcoal, and pastels. The grand finale includes drawing a live (clothed) model. It’s a fantastic chance for students to grow artistically and have fun!
Adult Classes: New! Needle Felting Landscapes, a 4-week class with Kate Wyatt
Wednesdays Sept 10 –Oct 8th (no class Sept 17)
Duration: 4 weeks
Time: 7pm to 9pm
Fees: Non-Mem $120, Mem: $100
Come learn and practice the therapeutic and rewarding art of Needle Felting a landscape. You can follow along with the instructor's example (may vary from pictured image) or create your own design.* New and returning participants welcome! All skill levels welcome. Life Drawing Studio (Clothed/Costumed)
Mondays Oct 6 - Nov 24 (no class Oct 13th - Thanksgiving Monday)
Time: 9am - 11:30am
Duration: 7 weeks
Fees: Sign up for all 7 weeks for the price of 6!
Non-member: $130, Member: $120. (Members save $10 overall)
Life drawing is back with style this fall! Join us in the coach house studio for 7 weeks of life drawing with live clothed models. Can't make all 7 weeks? Sign up by the week for a limited time. A variety of models will have the chance to express themselves with their own choice of costume. In this self-directed studio time, artists will have the opportunity to sketch from life with models in various poses - a mix of short and longer poses.
Mentored Painting, with Linda Blakney MBA MA (By the Week or all 6 weeks)
Mondays Oct 20th – Nov 24th
Duration: 6 weeks
Time: 1 pm – 3:30 pm
Location: Coach House at Glenhyrst
Regular Fees: Non-mem $150, Mem $140 (+HST)
CONTINUED ON PAGE 13
Former Six Nations school mate remembers Graham Greene
By Thohahoken
OHSWEKEN--Academy
Award-nominated Onkwehonwe actor Graham Greene died at age 73 on September 2, in Stratford, Ont., after a long illness. Born in Ohsweken, Greene starred in film, television and theatre projects from the late 1970s onward. This was the frontier in Native show-biz
We were students at Cayuga’s Secondary School where I knew Graham as an accomplished blues harp-player and singer. A natural entertainer Graham left Cayuga for a career in the arts beginning as a roadie working for Canadian bands. After working behind the scenes, Graham became the front-man on stage.
Greene was the son of John, a paramedic and maintenance man and Lillian Greene. Before moving into acting, Greene worked in construction as
a draftsman, welder, and steelworker in Hamilton, Ont. before moving into theatre.
As noted in one report, in the 1970s he was executive director of the Toronto-based Native Theatre School program now known as the Centre for Indigenous Theatre. By the 1970s he performed in professional theatre in Toronto and England and in 1976 he had a part in the University of Western Ontario's touring performance of James Reaney's Wacousta. He debuted in an episode of The Great Detective in 1979, and his film debut was in 1983 in Running Brave. On viewing his first TV work, Graham said that it was "awful", and that it prompted him to start learning acting as a profession.
Graham’s career was on the frontier of Native audio-visual arts. As a writer and on the production
Oh Is
(HIGH-PITCHED VOICE)
team, I was eyewitness as Graham’s career rose on CBC TV’s 1980s “Spirit Bay” series. This series was one the first to focus
on rural contemporary life on a northern Canadian Indian-reserve. After “Spirit Bay” in 1988 on the frontier of Canada’s apol-
ogy for Indian Residential Schools (IRS) he played a student’s father in the Gemini Award winning film “Where the Spirit Lives”.
Filmed at the Waterton Lakes resort in southern Alberta by the same “Spirit Bay” team, Graham told me his career slowed down. We talked late into the night. “It is a tough time being an Indian actor,” he said.
I remembered what Graham said. At that time I was working as a behindthe-scenes producer. I got calls from producers for casting roles in movies like “Revolution” and “Divided Loyalties”. One call came from Toronto by the casting-team for a movie with the title “Dances With Wolves”. I told the agents that an actor named Graham Greene “has a fire that would be good for the film.”
His role in “Where the Spirit Lives” was a
reason for being cast in the supporting role of “Kicking Bird” in the 1990 film “Dances With Wolves” that earned him an Oscar nomination.
Greene’s credits also include the action classic “Die Hard: With a Vengeance”, the Tom Hanks prison drama “The Green Mile”, and the western comedy “Maverick.” On stage, he appeared in Tomson Highway’s “Dry Lips Oughta Move to Kapuskasking”, appeared in “Of Mice and Men”, and “The Merchant of Venice” at Stratford Festival. And many more.
Greene was awarded the Governor General’s award for lifetime artistic achievement in June 2025. Greene joined the Order of Canada in 2015.
Thohahoken Michael Doxtater, Six Nations writer and educator.
It? Film, entertainment and social media
Six Nations Actor Graham Greene passed away at the age of 73 on September 2, 2025. FILE
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Indigenous businesses halt exports to U.S. despite long-standing free-trade ties
Some small Indigenous businesses are halting shipments to the U.S. in the wake of U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff regime, even though trade ties exist that predate the founding of both Canada and the United States.
“There needs to be a resolution to allow Indigenous Peoples to continue to undergo the trade routes that they have established and practised, and the treaties that have been signed in the past have suggested that these would be honoured,” said Matthew Foss, who serves as the vice president of research and public policy at the Canadian Council for Indigenous Businesses.
“It’s up to the federal governments in Canada and the United States to figure out how to honour those.”
Trump announced last month his government was going to suspend duty-free de minimus imports from all countries, with the new rules set to come into effect last Friday — part of his government’s larger push to promote domestic business development.
Purchases that previously entered the U.S. valued under $800 without needing to clear customs will require vetting and be subject to their origin country’s applicable tariff rate, which can range from 10 to 50 per cent. For the next six months, carriers handling orders sent through the global mail network also can choose a flat duty of $80 to $200 per package instead of the value-based rate.
Foss said Indigenous craftworks are exempt from tariffs under the current Canada-U.S.-Mexico trade agreement, but the documentation needed to secure that exemption may be too cumbersome for a small business to handle. He is lobbying the federal government to address those administrative burdens, but “it’s not moving quickly.”
Stevi Riley, who lives in Walpole Island First Nation and operates The Beaded Hero, said around half of her orders come
from the U.S. She made the decision to stop all sales in that country due to the new import rules, but worries about the impact that cutting her business off from that market will have.
“I just felt discouraged,” Riley said of the changes that could see a 35-percent increase in the cost to ship across the border.
“If you (the U.S.) don’t want Canadian products going over, I don’t want to deal with it. I don’t want things getting destroyed or things getting sent back, and I feel like that’s going to happen.”
Tribal Spirit Drums and Music, based in Ivry-surle-Lac, Que., posted on social media they would be halting U.S.-based sales as of Aug. 27, citing the de minimus changes, as did Dominique O’Bonsawin,
who runs Cedarlilie Beads.
“It definitely means less reach, which is a bummer because the U.S. would be a huge opportunity for growth,” said O’Bonsawin.
“Not being able to trade freely creates more distance and barriers for rebuilding relationships with communities in the U.S. We are related and connected, and this is frustrating.”
The Trump administration says the exemption has become a loophole that foreign businesses exploit to evade tariffs and criminals use to get drugs, counterfeit products and other contraband into the U.S.
Former U.S. President Joe Biden and members of Congress also discussed the issue.
Jack Royal, who serves as the chairman and CEO
of the Indigenous Businesses Corporation, said in an interview there is a lot of uncertainty in the U.S.-Canada relationship, and that it’s causing instability for Indigenous businesses and Canadians alike.
“Like other small businesses, what First Nations are looking for is some certainty and to look for support on how we can maximize our other options,” he said.
Twenty-five countries have already suspended postal services to the U.S., according to the Universal Postal Union.
“These suspensions will remain in place pending further information on how U.S. authorities will operationalize these measures as well as actual implementation of the required operational
changes,” the UN agency said in a news release last week.
Canada Post has not suspended exports, but has informed some business owners it is working to “understand the order, assess options, and secure solutions that will ensure we can maintain continuity for your business.”
Foss said the Canadian Council for Indigenous Businesses has been regularly engaging with the Canada Trade Commissioner Service to work on solutions to cross-border trade with Indigenous businesses, and is encouraging Indigenous leaders to advocate for the re-establishment of rights.
The Assembly of First Nations annual general meeting in Winnipeg this week has a series of resolutions up for debate,
including on cross-border trade.
One resolution, brought forward by Chief Roger Redman of Standing Buffalo First Nation, is calling for the advocacy body to help fund a legal opinion on Aboriginal and treaty rights to cross-border trade, and for the AFN to urge the federal government to include First Nations in all negotiations related to tariffs and trade policies.
O’Bonsawin said the U.S. and Canada have historically had strong trade agreements, and hopes things can “go back to normal” soon.
“I don’t see anything being done in the near future unfortunately, but I’m hopeful the next U.S. administration will do better for Canada and the U.S.”
ONKWEHÓN:WE HEALTH CHECK-IN
Interested in participating in a Community
Carney’s major projects office under fire from First Nations groups
By 2RT Staff
First Nations and civil society organizations are slamming the Major Federal Projects Office as a continuation of a failed strategy that risks sidelining Indigenous rights, weakening environmental protections, and putting corporate timelines ahead of communities.
While Ottawa claims the office will accelerate approvals and create jobs, according to an August 29 press release, Indigenous leaders and NGOs warn that the approach cuts corners on Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) and undermines Canada’s commitments to climate action and reconciliation. Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, President, Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs:
“The opening of the Major Federal Projects Office under the guise of national interest is nothing short of the government deliberately sidestepping its duty to consult and co-operate with First
Nations," said Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs president. "The messaging from the Prime Minister has felt less like an invitation to partnership and more like an ultimatum: get on board or get out of the way. First Nations aren’t opposed to responsible development—we’re opposed to having our inherent and constitutional rights ignored. We continue to demand that the Federal government honour its reconciliation and environmental promises and withdraw these major project bills so that proper, principled solutions can be built together.”
Janelle Lapointe, senior advisor of Indigenous Strategic Approach at the David Suzuki Foundation added, “When governments call propping up extractive corporations 'economic reconciliation,' they truly mean shifting risk onto Indigenous Nations while raking in profit for industry. True
reconciliation is about investing in land restitution, community power, and a just transition. Resourcing this new office is investing in the economy of yesterday instead of investing in a future that would prioritize Indigenous rights, a safe climate future and well-being for everyday Canadians.”
The Major Federal Projects Office, announced by Prime Minister Mark Carney has a goal of cutting approval timelines from five years to two.
Critics warn the plan prioritizes speed and industry pressure over Indigenous rights, environmental safeguards, and community well-being.
The federal government’s C-5 and various provincial pieces of legislation risk over-riding Indigenous decision making, despite a constitutional duty to consult and the adoption of the UN Declaration on the rights of Indigenous Peoples which requires Free, Prior and Informed Consent.
Fall art classes at Glenhyrst
for all 6 weeks.
Join Our Monday Afternoon Mentored Painting Class and experience expert advice, guidance, and inspiring art activities designed to ignite your creativity in a community of like-minded creators ready to inspire and be inspired.
What to Expect
You can work in your preferred paint medium, whether it’s acrylics, oils, watercolours, or more. (Some experience recommended)
Optional exercises and activities to refresh or enhance your understanding of art elements and principles and get you into the flow of creating.
Freedom to focus on your artistic projects.
Expert personalized guidance to help you reach your artistic goals.
New! Mixed Media Fusion, with Linda Blakney MBA MA
Mondays Oct 20th – Nov 24th
Duration: 6 weeks
Time: 6:30-8:30 pm
Location: Coach House at Glenhyrst
Fees: Non-mem $150, Mem $130 (+HST) (some materials provided)
In this class, you will learn how to combine watercolours, inks, pastels, pens, pencils, collage and acrylic paint. You will also discover how one painting can become an idea generator, inspiring new trains of thought and ultimately new paintings. Throughout the projects, we will apply techniques that use intention and techniques that will incorporate your intuition.
New! Drawing for Beginners (Adult) with Lindsay Liboiron
Thursdays Oct 23 - Nov 20
5 weeks
Time: 7 – 8:30pm
Fees: Non-mem: $120, Mem: $100
In this workshop, students will explore the fundamentals of drawing through learning values, blending techniques, and practice drawing a variety of smaller projects to build confidence.
Students will work
towards completing a finished artwork in the second half of the course, with guided instruction by Lindsay.
Children’s Classes: New! Craft Corner with Kate Wyatt
Wednesdays Sept 10 –Oct 8th (no class Sept 17)
Duration: 4 weeks
Time 4:30pm to 6pm
Ages: 8 - 12
Fees: Non-mem: $65, Mem: $55
Creative young makers are welcome to come and get crafty in our 4-week Wednesday Makers’ Club. Each week will bring another hands-on project (projects may include: string art, wool gnomes, Origami mobile, paper quilling etc). Materials provided. Drawing for Beginners (Ages 5-6) at 11:30am
Dates: Sundays Sept 14 to Nov 2 (no class Sept 21 or Oct 12 Thanksgiving weekend)
Duration: 6 weeks
Ages: 5-6
New Time: 11:30pm –12:30pm
Fees: Non-mem: $55, Mem: $45
By Jim Windle
The Six Nations Rivermen will have to settle for Bronze at the 2025 Presidents Cup Championships hosted by the Brooklin Merchants at the Meaford Arena.
The Edmonton Miners were up for the Bronze Medal Game, Sunday, evening. One the one hand, the Miners were happy to get to the medal round while the Rivermen seemed to have lost interest entirely and fell 12-2, virtually handing the miners the medal.
Tyler Brown tried to start the Rivermen’s engine with the first goal of the game from Danton Miller and David Anderson, but it did not work. Edmonton would score the next four to take a 4-1 first period lead.
The Rivermen didn’t show up in the second while the Miners were were digging up another four goals for the 8-1, two period total. By this time the arena was tilted in Edmonton’s favour. The Rivermen had a huge mountain to climb, while the Merchants costed to for more goals and a 12-2 final to win the Bronze Medal. David Anderson accounted for the River-
know the score.
Six Nations Rivermen miss the medals
men’s second goal from Davin Bomberry and Aiden Fearn.
After playing a great preliminary series they were up against the host Merchants for a chance at all the marbles. What the Rivermen expected was a normally strong and determined Merchants team, but now on steroids, bulked up with a little extra talent, as host teams are known to do.
Semi-finals between two of the favourites to win this year’s chalice.
The Merchants laid down the gauntlet with a 4-1 first period lead.
Brooklin’s Will McLeod, Alex Mariner, Parker Pipher scored for Brooklin before Thunder Hill put Six Nations in the game. That wouldn’t stop Brooklin however and Jacob Hickey closed the period.
The Rivermen delivered a much better showing in the second, outscoring the Merchants 5-3 for a two-period score of 7-6, but still back by one. Zach Herreweyers score two within the first minute and a half of the period to come within one. McLeod restored the Merchants’ two goal advantage. But then David Anderson exploded with a natural hat trick and it appeared the
Chiefs ready to defend the Cup
By Jim Windle
The Six Nations Chiefs have been waiting, we don’t know how patiently, for the trip out to BC and a showdown with the Western Champs, the New Westminster Salmonbellies to the most prestigious trophy in the game of lacrosse, the Mann Cup. It will be the Chiefs attempt at their third Mann Cup in a row. The Chiefs came out of the Easter playoffs on top of all contenders and punched their card to represent the OLA for the prize.
The New Westminster Salmonbellies earned the right to host and compete in this year’s national
championship by beating the Victoria Shamrocks in the semi-finals and defeating the Coquitlam Adanacs in a hard-fought five-game final series. In the East, the Six Nations Chiefs are leading their final series 2 - 0 against the Peterborough Lakers to determine who will represent Major Series Lacrosse to contest the ultimate box lacrosse trophy – the Mann Cup.
All games in the bestof-seven series will be played at Queen’s Park Arena in New Westminster on the Salmonbellies iconic wooden floor and streamed live.
The schedule is as follows:
Game #1 – Friday, Sep-
tember 5th 7:30 pm
Game #2 – Saturday, September 6th 7:00 pm
Game #3 – Monday, September 8th 7:30 pm
Game #4 – Tuesday, September 9th 7:30 pm
Game #5 – Wednesday, September 10th 7:30 pm
Game #6 – Friday, September 12th 7:30 pm
Game #7 – Saturday, September 13th 7:00 pm
Rivermen had found their mojo. Brooklin’s Pipher stopped the bleeding before the end of the period.
If they thought the Merchants were on the ropes, they would have been wrong. As the Merchants stoked the furnace in the third period, the Rivermen began to fade.
Liam Osborne restored Brooklin’s two-goal advantage but Chris Courtney erased that and it was a one-goal game again. That’s when the Merchants dealt the Rivermen a decisive blow by scoring the next three goals to put it out of reach.
Gregory Elijah-Brown gave Six Nations fans hope with a powerplay goal with four minutes left. It would be hard, but not impossible for the Rivermen, who have been known to score in bunches. But not this time.
The Merchants took charge late in the period with the last goal scored in the empty net for the 12-8 final.
The loss relegated the Rivermen to the Bronze Medal game against the Edmonton Miners while the Merchants took on the Snake Island Muskies for the Silver and Gold standings and the 2025 Presidents Cup.
Wile most Ontario eyes were watching the Merchants and the Rivermen, the Snake Island Muskies were quietly chewing up the competition. In their first game of the series, the beat Six Nations 12-9, then eat up the Saskatchewan Roadrunners 21-5. The Miners fell 10-3, the Winnipeg Blizzard lost 203, and 8-7 against Edmonton where it took scoring the last three goals of the game secured the win. It was now down to two teams, the host Brooklin Merchants and the Snake Island Muskies.
The Muskies were hungry for their first Presidents Cup while the Merchants looked banged up and not putting forth their usual energy. The first period set the tone for the rest of the game as Snake Island barged their way to a 7-1 first period lead.
Brooklin had a better second period but not a great one as the Muskies held an 8-4 second period lead.
Brooklin opened the third period but the Muskies slammed it shut with three more markers for the 11-5 win and the 2025 Presidents Cup.
Most Valuable Player went to Thunder Hill and Most Valuable Defensive player was won by Ty Logan. PHOTO BY X
Hockey’s unsung Indigenous players of the past
JIM WINDLE jim@tworowtimes.com
TWO ROW TIMES
As the new hockey season is set to begin, all Six Nations eyes will be on Brandon Montour when he suits up for Team Canada, and his NHL home with the Seattle Kraken. He is having a remarkable career and, barring injury, still has a number of seasons before him. He is known to be the first Six Nations, Haudenosaunee to put his name on the Stanley Cup and deserves the honour. But is he the first?
There were others before him who blazed Montour’s pathway as an Indigenous athlete and as a man.
Most people have heard of Fred “Chief Thunderstick” Sasakamoose. He is rightfully credited as the first Indigenous player to make, and stay, in the NHL in his relatively long hockey career.
But even Sasakamoose had others who tried before him with varying levels of success which he
in Ayr North Dumfries, on the traditional territory of the Six Nations of the Grand River and died at the age of 53 in 1958.
Maracle was not only a fine athlete which opened normally closed doors for him, he also became somewhat of a local hero while playing with the Springfield Indians of the Can-Am League.
Is was reported in the news that severe floods invaded the exhibition ground where the Indians’ rink is located, and the waters endangered the Springfield equipment in the dressing room.
stood on the shoulders of. Henry Elmer ‘Buddy’ Maracle Henry Elmer ‘Buddy’ Maracle holds the distinction of being the first Indigenous person to appear in an NHL game during the 1930-31 season.”
Maracle, an Oneida Mohawk was born in 1904
“Maracle was rowed to the building in a boat, dived underneath a door, swam through the chilly waters, and effected the rescue of the equipment. As a reward for this act, he was given a public presentation on the occasion of the Indians’ first home game of the season, the management giving him a substantial bonus.”
Maracle is seen here, when he played for the Springfield (Massachusetts) Indians of the Can-Am League. FILE
Although Maracle was a big man, he was first branded by the local media as being “yellow”.
During one intermission, the story continues, the manager of Maracle’s team backed him up against the dressing-room wall, stuck a pistol against his chest and threatened to shoot him if he showed lack of courage in the future. From then on, concludes the tale, Maracle has “played like a demon all the time.”
Maracle took that threat to heart and a few games later, a local sports reporter wrote, “Maracle is so big, that still body checks hurt the checker more than they do him. Players just bounce off him.”
“(He) Comes at you
Hockey’s unsung Indigenous players of the past
from all directions,” advised one opponent who faced him when Maracle was skating for the Springfield Indians in the Can-Am League.
A review of the records indicates that, beyond the big leagues, he played all over the North America in a career that lasted nearly 20 years.
A Sudbury Star newspaper article dated May 22, 1923, had the following head-line: “North Bay gets Maracle. Much sought after Haileybury Indian hockey star locates in railway town.” It goes on to read: “Albert Maracle star Indian centre of Haileybury High School team, left this weekend for North Bay, where he will play ball this summer and hockey this winter.”But
even he was not alone. Clarence “Taffy” Abel
Taffy Able was a member of two Stanley Cup championship teams. On November 16, 1926, he became the first United States–born Native American player to become an NHL regular, with the New York Rangers. He is a member of the United States Hockey Hall of Fame.
He caught the eye of Con Smith for the new New York Rangers, largely based upon his strong performance at the Winter Olympics in 1924.
After the 1929 season, Abel's rights were sold to the Chicago Black Hawks where he played five more years. Abel was a member of the Cup-winning Black Hawks in 1933-34in, his last NHL season.
Paul Jacobs
James "Jimmy" Jamieson (March 21, 1921 –December 26, 1985) was a defenseman. He played in one game in the National Hockey League for the New York Rangers during the 1943-44 season, on January 13, 1944 against the Chicago Black Hawks. The rest of his career, which lasted from 1940 to 1952, was spent in the minor leagues.
Rene Boileau aka Rainy Drinkwater
James Milks wrote an extensively researched book entitled “Was NHL History Made in 1918” a biography of Paul Jacobs. In it he says, “Paul Jacobs disappeared from a lineup without explanation. For whatever reason, he did not finish the season with the Montreal Stars in early 1919. The following season he reappeared in the MCHL, this time with the Laval University team. In 1920–21, he apparently did not play, and after a brief six-game stint in Quebec City, he emerged in Cleveland, Ohio in 1922 to play 16 games with the Indians of the USAHA. This was the most games he is known to have put in with a team in a single season. Could there have been a large bridge or high rise project there at the time? After one more season in Montreal, his last known season of hockey was again played in Cleveland in 1924–25 with the same team. That is the last trace of Paul Jacobs I am aware of. A trip through the Kahnawake Cemetery turned up many Jacobs, but none named Paul. I do not know either his dates of birth or death.”
James Jamieson
Rene Boileau was given a Mohawk heritage and the name Rainy Drinkwaterby his team owner who thought an “Indian” would attract an audience.
Then there’s the imposter, Rainy Drinkwater who was used by money hungry owners exclusively as a publicity stunt. Boileau knew it and went right along with the hoax. In 1925, very few non-natives knew much of anything about “Indians” and rarely came in contact with them, but there was a curiosity about them that drew crowds and put butts in the seats and money in the pocket the for the owners.
That was the year New York launched its first NHL franchise, the Americans.
“While considering promotion ideas, someone, maybe Manager Tommy Gorman, came up with an idea. They would pretending that a non-Indigenous Montreal-born centreman, Rene Boileau, was in fact a Mohawk star by the name of Rainy Drinkwater. Later it was alleged that it was owner Tom Duggan’s idea; either way, it didn’t work.”
Much of this information comes from the wonderful book, “Puckstruck” by Stephen Smith.
Clarence “Taffy” Abel, of Chippewa blood, played defence for the 1924, U.S. Olympic team. He was born in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan in 1900. played in the National Hockey League with the New York Rangers and Chicago Black Hawks between 1926 and 1934. FILE
Paul Jacobs was a high-rigger from Kahnawake (Caughnawaga) Territory when he lined up for the Toronto Arenas for a single game in the league’s second season in 1918. He was a two-sport athlete, baseball in the summer, lacrosse in the winter and easily transitioned from one to the other. FILE
Canadian ice hockey player James Jamieson as a member of the Pasadena Panthers. FILE
Rene Boileau, was in fact a Mohawk star by the name of Rainy Drinkwater. FILE
SIX NATIONS COUNCIL
SIX NATIONS AND NEW CREDIT
VanEvery: Punkin (Justine Carol)
December 6, 1966 - August 27, 2025
Age 58
Peacefully at home on August 27, 2025, Punkin (Justine Carol) VanEvery age 58, beloved wife of Tony. Survived by her children Ryan (Colbie), Misty, Shelaina, Tinky, Shantel, Brennan, Kev in, Kody. Special mom to Bella, Keenan, Johnna, and many others. Punkin is also survived by her grandchildren Ryan Jr., Riley, Ryanna, Ryder, Bravyn, Reese, Braelynn, Scarlett, Riya, Everley, Cailey, Chelsea, Keionna, Keiandra, Kayde, Bry er, Kyra, Kyle, Alicia, and Destiny. She also leaves behind her great-grandchild Alaia, with more great-grandchildren to come. Predeceased by her parents Patricia (brownie) and Dunny, and her father-in-law Steve. She will be lovingly re membered by her mother-in-law Wilma, sib lings Reta, Henry (Jordie), Sonya, and the late Ira. Remembered by her brothers-in-law Lanny (Rachel), Chuck, Dennis, and Josh (deceased) and by her sisters-in-law Marcy, Kari (Logan), and Krystal. She shared a special bond with dear friends Joyce, Carol, Kari B, Molly, and Barb (deceased). Punkin will be remembered by many aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, and cousins that she loved dearly. Visi tation will be held at 496 Third Line on Saturday at 2 pm, followed by Evening Prayers at 7pm. Funeral Service will take place on Sunday August 31 at the family Homestead.
CLUES ACROSS
1. Fairly large
6. Barrels per day (abbr.)
9. Cover the entirety of 13. Leafy appetizer
14. Showy ornament
15. Norse personification of old age 16. Athletes
17. Closes tightly
18. Attack via hurling items
19. Where the reserves stand
21. Sword
22. Begat
23. Damage another’s reputation
24. Northeast
25. Turf
28. For each
29. Hours (Spanish)
31. Western state
33. One who offers help
36. Flanks
38. A woolen cap of Scottish origin
39. Free from drink or drugs
41. Tunnels
44. Mature
45. More dried-up
46. News organization
48. Steal something
49. Forms one’s public persona(abbr.)
51. Female fish eggs
52. Small petrel of southern seas
54. Edible starches
56. Historical
60. In a place to sleep
61. Horse grooms
62. Off-Broadway theater award
63. Chinese dynasty
64. Resembling a wing
65. Small projection on a bird’s wing
66. Of the Isle of Man
67. Derived unit of force (abbr.)
68. Plate for Eucharist
CLUES DOWN
1. Vipers
2. Ancient city in Syria
3. Slog
4. Emits coherent radiation
5. “Pollock” actor Harris
6. Bleated
7. Monetary units of Afghanistan
8. Tooth doctor
9. One who takes apart
10. Commoner
11. Beat poet Ginsberg
12. Cave deposit material
14. Home energy backup
17. Begets
20. Face part
21. Frocks
23. Hill or rocky peak
25. Giving the impression of dishonesty
26. About ear
27. Male parents
29. Popular grilled food
30. Vaccine developer
32. Not conforming
34. Polite address for women
35. 1970 U.S. environmental law
37. Astronomical period of 18 years
40. One who fights the government
42. Center for Excellence in Education
43. Watches discreetly
47. An electrically charged atom
49. Hymn
50. Arabic given name
52. Popular pie nut
53. City in Zambia
55. Species of cherry
56. John __, British writer
57. Be next to
58. Make angry
59. Give birth to a lamb or kid
61. Unhappy
SUDOKU Answers
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
You’re feeling bold this week, Aries. Use a surge of energy to speak out about something that needs to be said. Be mindful of how others may receive it.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
Stability and home life are in the spotlight, Taurus. You may be called to handle something domestic or financial. Use your natural patience to avoid impulsive decisions.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
Gemini, conversations will flow with ease this week, and you’ll be a magnet for interesting ideas. If you have been waiting to pitch an idea, do it right now.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
Cancer, you may assess your value right now, both financially and emotionally. An important decision requires you to have a level head. It’s a great week to update a budget.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
This week invites you to step into the spotlight, Leo. This is just where you like to be. Don’t be afraid to own your power and reveal something personal to friends and family.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
Virgo, you are more introspective than usual. Take time to reflect and recharge this week. Old memories or unfinished business might resurface and you have to face it head on.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
Your social life picks up, and someone in your network may present a useful opportunity. Be open to collaboration, Libra. Just don’t say yes to too many things at once.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
Currently your ambition is in focus and others are noticing, Scorpio. A professional opportunity may come your way, but don’t rush the details. Trust your intuition when negotiating.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
You are craving inspiration and something new, Sagittarius. This is the week to explore new ideas, travel or study something interesting. A philosophical discussion might come up.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
Capricorn, change is in the air whether you invite it or it finds you. Emotional matters may require some extra attention right now.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
Aquarius, all of your partnerships are going smoothly right now. You may need to readjust your expectations to reflect your productivity. A turning point comes into play midweek.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
Think about looking at your daily habits, Pisces. Figure out if anything needs to be tweaked. You need to take care of yourself and prioritize your health.
