PAULATUK - When Angik school celebrated three students' graduations on May 26, the gymnasium was host to some very special guests.

Included was IRC leader Nellie Cournoyer, and Nunakput MLA Calvin Pokiak.

Sam Green is a longtime resident of Paulatuk who will celebrate his 90th birthday June 17. He has lived long enough to see his daughters through retirement and is widely known for his traditional knowledge. - Philippe Morin/NNSL photo

Also among the audience were some other guests of honour, such as elders from the community.

One of these elders was Sam Green, who is celebrating his 90th birthday this month.

"I've been around quite a while," is how Green chose to describe himself, with a low laugh.

Green said he originally came from Alaska, but has been living in Paulatuk for more than 70 years.

Green's daughter, Liz Kuptana, introduced her father to News/North, and said she was thankful for his good health and humour.

"It's very special," she said, adding her father witnessed the Grade 12 graduation of students the year of her retirement.

Green's grandson Aiden said his grandfather was very respected in the community of about 300 people.

"He's very nice, and he's good out on the land," he said.

Green has been a hunter all his life, and amazingly, continued his trips until earlier this year.

"He's been hunting and trapping for a living, and last fall was his last trip," Kuptana said.

Surely, everyone in the community will be wishing him a happy birthday.