Summer program for Pechanga culture

Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians hands down traditions to their youth

By Jeff HorsemanA summer program run by the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians teaches ancient skills and customs to tribal youth.

Besides making kiichas--houses made from brush--and arrowheads, those in the Traditional Knowledge Summer Youth Program say they learn to value each other as well as their culture.

"It's like a special bond they have with each other," said Art Masiel, the tribe's youth director. "You don't see that outside in the general public."

Started seven years ago by the tribe's cultural committee, the program geared toward teenagers runs for six hours a day, five days a week for six weeks.Comment:  For some pictures of the Pechanga rez, see:

Pix of Pechanga golf course
Luiseño village reconstructed

Below:  "From left, Delia Villalobos, 21, Darla Morreo, 15, and Girl Munoa, 20, show off their kiicha shelters." (Frank Bellino/Special to The Press-Enterprise)