Blog March 28, 2008
So I just got back from Ceremony and its Saturday night. Honestly, I don’t know what the rules or protocol is on blogging or speaking publicly about ceremonies. So first of all, I am not the authority on my cultural practices. I’m not anyone special like a medicine person or anything along those lines. I’m just someone who gets the privilege to be a part of ceremonies because I was born Dakota/Lakota.
So if anyone with cultural authority wants to chew me out, I’m open to it. But I also have to speak my mind, somehow.
Originally it was planned that I would go on a date for a couple hours this afternoon, but unfortunately it didn’t work out that way. Circumstances, that were out of our control, so to speak. “It just wasn’t meant to be,” is definelty a phrase you get used to around these parts, and mostly in my life.
But it worked out that I could help my Aunt make the frybread for ceremony and some other traditional food. She had already prepared the dough last night. So I got to fry it. At first it wasn’t uniform, by that I mean it wasn’t the same color on both sides. Toward the last 20 pieces they all looked professional. It’s too bad you can’t eat any food before the ceremony cause I was dying to eat just one frybread. My aunt’s recipe is so good. I told someone the other day, it’s so good, it inspired the scene from Smoke Signals. Hahaha
By the time the last pieces were done, I was drenched in Frybread perfume. Good thing, there wasn’t any guys around I would have attracted them like a moth to a flame. But at least I knew, everyone would want to hug me after that.
So now that everything is said and done, I’ve prayed, cried and ate with my family. A true blessing , as I look back on it.
Lately, I’ve had these thoughts lingering in my head about our spirituality.
What can I talk about?
More importantly, the real question I have is: Would Non-native people understand?
I offended Adam on the way to Canada when I said, you guys come from more of headspace and my people come from more of a heartspace.
In all fairness, I know how messed up that sounded to him, and never meant it to hurt him in anyway. I was just trying to put it as simple as I could. Maybe it wasn’t the best way to put it, but it’s all I could verbalize at that time.
I’m new at fully putting my energy into walking this Red Road “Canku Duta.” Which basically means I’ve made the commitment to my spirituality and all that encompasses. Not new to the practices, both my parents are pipecarriers and have been since before I was born and it goes back to their parents, etc. So I’m new to making this my life everyday.
I guess the biggest lesson, I’m learning is patience and JB re-iterated that to me, today. We took a ride to the store and we talked about it, meaning our ways, our spirituality. His words were you don’t learn everything at once, and you may not find out the meaning of your dreams for years, you just have to be patient. You’ll understand certain things when you are suppose to. And the past couple months, it has been that way. The things I worked on –my bag, my dresses, my shawls, all took time. I never completed one of those projects in a day. Those are all things we use in various ceremonies. For once, of all the past conversations, we’ve had over the years, I finally knew what he meant, when he said that.
We talked about other things, too. Why we’re here. I know exactly what he means. But then I worry, how come other people don’t know. And mine is more specific, why is the Dakota/Lakota/Nakota nation still here? Knowing what I know now, which is that our ways are so beautiful and healing, why do my people struggle so much now in 2009?
Our prayers are always for each other and everyone else. One basic asking is for the Buffalo. Because through him, we got everything we needed. Today, it’s not like that. We live in houses, shop at the mall and are pretty much like everyone else in America. We don’t ask for materialistic things. It’s not a part of our prayer. Materialistic things are not really a staple in our way of life anyway. We are always giving stuff away. One teaching is that you have to be the poorest person in the village to practice these ways. So we are always giving stuff away. That is pretty common among most tribes anyway. We all know giving beautiful gifts away is an awesome feeling.
Back to the subject, why we’re here. In a nutshell, I was taught to believe we are spiritual beings on a human journey. Written along the same lines was an email forwarded to me the other day. It was written by a Pastor. He said we are only here a short time on earth to practice how we will be in the eternity with God. In life, all of triumphs and tragedies are not one or the other. Good things will always be in your life as well as the Bad. The true way to Master it, is to see both and be ok. Being centered, I thought, that’s one of our teachings. Now I see why my Aunt forwarded it to me.
It’s so much more than that. Then again, it’s not really more than that. Most of what I’ve learned is really about energy. In those terms, I totally get. It makes so much more sense than when I hear the word spirituality. In energy there is no good or bad, it’s with negative energy or positive. Both are always present and you must walk in balance. I know this is where my ancestors have really mastered this way of life. They knew energy like no one’s business.
Thinking back on the horse-ride, we rode 330 miles. Across two states, in the middle of winter. We basically moved energy 330 miles. It was good energy, it was healing, it was the most beautiful experience of my life. At the same time, yeah, it was balanced, we definetly met that healing energy with some rough spots. For all the healing tears, there were some intensely frustrating moments. In the end it was worth it. We could NOT have done it without all the Spiritual advisors (AKA Medicine) people that lead the horse-ride. It was their knowledge and their experience, it was their prayers, their presence and love that got us through that horse-ride.
I know why my family is here and other tribal families. Our ancestors prayed for us. We were their prayer. My family being alive today is testament to their prayer.
It just makes me sad that nowadays non-native contemporary America isn’t taught that. They aren’t taught to consider the next seven generations. They aren’t taught to look past their kids and maybe their grandkids.
Maybe my question was too vague, would Non-native people understand?
Like I said, I don’t know what I’m allowed to talk about. But I know I have to be honest. In one ceremony, they said, “We won’t tell the wasicu, they aren’t ready yet.”
And yeah, Ok, their race tried to exterminate ours, and continues to do so, today. Mostly the government, but the American people are just as much to blame because they accept the information put in front of them. They don’t question it. And I am so tired of educating people, I mean c’mon have some respect for yourself and do some real research, it’s 2009, people!
It’s a little frustrating, because there isn’t anything that I am saying that hasn’t been said by my parents’ generations.
Lately, I’ve noticed the masses are genuinely interested in spirituality. Somehow it got out there, that we (Native Americans) have the key, we are the masters of it. That’s kind of funny to me. It’s still the idealistic, mystical Native American image. That puts us on platform, a stage and is idolizing. All of which I am against. There’s nothing human about being an idol. It gives us no room, to be human and make human mistakes or even live as human beings who deserve their rights respected like everyone else.
I will say this, there is a genuine distrust toward Non-natives. Some of the elders say it’s because Non-natives weren’t raised like us. They say, they will walk this way for awhile, but in the end they will always turn their backs on us. I can see both points. I’m 25 and I’ve seen this happen a few times. People come in and get what they want and leave. By what “they want,” I mean, healing, - whether it be physical, mental, emotional, spiritually, whatever. And really that’s fine. I hope all people get healing, but I should elaborate more on where a lot of people get upset. My relative helps out this Non-native person, who comes to sweat all the time. He’s really a good guy, brings wood and helps out just as much as anyone else. It is clear he loves this way of life. When this non-native is out in public with my relative, he totally denies having any spiritual connection or help to my relative in front of his peers. When it came down to it, for this man to go ahead and say, yes, I pray with this guy. He denied it, for fear of rejection from his peers. This guy is 50 years old. I guess age doesn’t make a difference. Niether does having his cancer being removed either. My relative isn’t a medicine man never has been. He just helped this guy with his prayers to get better, like everyone else.
That made me feel sad to hear that. Does it answer my questions? Would non-native people understand this way of life? But more importantly, are non-native people ready for this way of life?
The world is in tough shape, that story didn’t answer my questions, it simply verified certain people’s distrust and fears of Non-Native people.
It’s hard for me when my relatives tell me disheartening stories about Non-native people who are disrespectful to our way of life. Then again, I can see why they are so protective of it.
Not only that, we (Native Americans), were not allowed to practice our own spirituality LEGALLY until 1978! Yes, it was illegal for Indians to pray in their own religion in AMERICA until 1978! The country that built it’s constitution on Freedom of Religion, denied it’s original people their religion until 1978. For a lot of elders, that was like yesterday. My oldest brother was 3 when the president passed that. So I can see why it’s hard for elders to trust non-native people.
It’s so sad. After making my own commitment, I understand that it has to be protected. They kept it safe all these years. Through everything; genocide, verbal, emotional, spiritual, physical and sexual abuse against my people. Through all that, they kept our spirituality, our ways alive.
After all that, I’m still torn. This way of life is awesome, I can’t say enough good things about it. This spirituality is of the highest frequencies. But what do I do? So many people want know about it. I mean look at Eckhart Tolle’s books all spiritual. I’ve read them, good stuff, pretty much in alignment with our teachings, but more of headspace thing. Ours is from the heart, always, always being honest about how you feel, everyday all day. Yes, that means telling people you love them even when you’re scared too. With us, it’s not what you think,… it’s how you feel. Get it? Headspace, thinking -Heartspace, feeling. Gotta get your mind out of the way, let your heart and your spirit lead. The rest of your life will be spent trying to get your mind to follow.
In conclusion, I will end saying another famous quote “Everything happens for a reason.” What started out as wondering if I should even mention anything about our ceremonies, turned into a question of would people understand our spirituality? And now after realizing my internal conflict, can finally share what I was trying to get out all along, a simple point : Headspace/heartspace. “Get you’re mind out of the way, let your heart and your spirit lead. The rest of your life will be spent trying to get your mind to follow.” Universal advice, but now comes the real challenge for actually living from your heart. Helping everytime someone asks, giving away your last dollar to help someone else. Putting everyone else’s needs before your own is truly being Lakota/Dakota –Heartspace<3. There’s nothing mystical about that.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Blog it out!!!
This morning I was going through all my old bills and mail shredding and getting rid of a couple trash bags full old mail. I am so neurotic about making sure my identity isn't stolen, especially in the trash. I hold onto my mail, until I can sit down and shred every piece that has my address on it.
And here it is, what got me to blog today because I can't channel it anywhere else.
I was going through and found some remenants of my three most heartbreaking relationships.
Like, I wasn't already stressed out!
Ok, let's go in order. I found a letter from my son's Dad. We'll call him Bill. It said he would really like my support and blah, blah, blah. He was my first love. In the letter he recollects how we were best friends. This guy is dragging it out. We haven't said two words to each other in two years! The nerve of this guy. So I'm like whatever, lies all lies, and I rip it up and throw it in the trash. He left, when my son was three weeks old. I was young, so was he. But he did pay child support up until last year. Even then, we had to go to court over that. Then changing my son's last name to mine. We had to go court over that, too. I won each time, but I didn't see the point in why we had to be there in the first place. I'm the full-time parent, he should just agree with what I have to say. And that's it. I think finding this letter is what fired me up the most. Parenting stuff definetly strikes a chord. But after about five minutes I got over it.
So I'm going through some more old mail and I find an old medical bill for my second relationship. We'll call him Jack. Hehehe, I did totally wanna add something to that name, but in fairness I'll move on. Anyway, it brought me back to why he was billed. One night when we were living together, he woke up with chest pains. We went to the hospital, and they kept him over night. He and I were, (and probably still are) smokers, so it was a little scary. But even at that time we were in our very early twenties. He was also like my best friend. We spent a tremendous amount of time together, and both loved and lived our spirituality. It was a good a match, but we fought all the time. Looking back I think we were just too young, with nothing in common. After two years we broke up, but to my surprise was not as devastating as I thought it would be. I felt relief when it was over.
Which brings me to my third relationship. We'll call him Todd. Todd and I had been best friends for 5 years. Very nuetral, in the beginning I think. Well, I'll admit it there was an attraction there. The first time I ever saw him in passing, I thought Wow, I could marry a guy like that. I mean really who thinks like that? We never formally met until a few years later. We became close after I shared some hurtful events in my life and he helped me through it, by helping me find my spiritual belief again. He was awesome. As long as we were friends. So anyways after me and Jack broke up a few months later me and Todd decided to take our friendship to the next level. It was nice, I liked it. We could talk about anything, and I knew he loved me more than life itself. But like life, I wasn't perfect. I had deep sexual abuse and rape issues that I was confronting and had internal tissues inside my body that were cancerous. What a combination. To this day I believe the two are linked the physical cancer and the emotional cancer. So he was very supportive and loving. At the same time he was going through some abandonment issues. As was I. During my counseling, my psychologist informed that I would need a support team during my counseling treatment. My abandonment issue rose-up when I asked my mother to support me and she flat out turned me down said I needed to ask one of my aunties to support me. (Later on, I did, and my Aunt was awesome support). At that time, I was pissed and hurt. All this stuff was going on and me and Todd were trying to have a relationship. It was sticky and I knew he was ready for marriage. I thought I was, but then I changed my mind. It was too much for me, the counseling and cancer stuff. He ultimately needed my support, and by all means, I should have supported him. But I've come to understand, like my mother, I couldn't give what I didn't have. And at that time I had nothing to give.
So maybe the moral of the story isn't that my boyfriends were a__holes. Cause they aren't. Bill is very intelligent and I know he loves his son more than anything, he just can't be what he never had, -a good father. And Jack, he, however is a good father and was to my son. I'll always love him for that. We were just so young, we really didn't have much in common at all. Our spirituality, our prayers, our way of life. -We both love, to this day, so much, and still run into each other at those events. But like I said on daily basis, we had nothing in common. And lastly Todd, who I thought was my biggest regret, actually turns out to be a neutral regret. Later on I contacted him and apologized for everything that happened the way it did. Probably hoping for some romantic reunion. Never happened. He said he was over it. That was a couple years ago.
I'm past the point in my life, where I have to cut people down to feel better about the decisions I made, it doesn't work. In each of those relationships, there were two of us. Today I can truthfully say, I might be ok, if this so called Mr. Right came along. But if there's anything I've learned, it's that relationships take work. That means working on yourself, first, because you can't change anyone. And most importantly, you can't give what you don't have, and that means -love.
Here it comes, the moral of the story. Dunnn, Dunnn, Dunn...If you don't love yourself completely, How can you even begin to think you can honestly love another person?
That's my Jedi knowledge for today.
And here it is, what got me to blog today because I can't channel it anywhere else.
I was going through and found some remenants of my three most heartbreaking relationships.
Like, I wasn't already stressed out!
Ok, let's go in order. I found a letter from my son's Dad. We'll call him Bill. It said he would really like my support and blah, blah, blah. He was my first love. In the letter he recollects how we were best friends. This guy is dragging it out. We haven't said two words to each other in two years! The nerve of this guy. So I'm like whatever, lies all lies, and I rip it up and throw it in the trash. He left, when my son was three weeks old. I was young, so was he. But he did pay child support up until last year. Even then, we had to go to court over that. Then changing my son's last name to mine. We had to go court over that, too. I won each time, but I didn't see the point in why we had to be there in the first place. I'm the full-time parent, he should just agree with what I have to say. And that's it. I think finding this letter is what fired me up the most. Parenting stuff definetly strikes a chord. But after about five minutes I got over it.
So I'm going through some more old mail and I find an old medical bill for my second relationship. We'll call him Jack. Hehehe, I did totally wanna add something to that name, but in fairness I'll move on. Anyway, it brought me back to why he was billed. One night when we were living together, he woke up with chest pains. We went to the hospital, and they kept him over night. He and I were, (and probably still are) smokers, so it was a little scary. But even at that time we were in our very early twenties. He was also like my best friend. We spent a tremendous amount of time together, and both loved and lived our spirituality. It was a good a match, but we fought all the time. Looking back I think we were just too young, with nothing in common. After two years we broke up, but to my surprise was not as devastating as I thought it would be. I felt relief when it was over.
Which brings me to my third relationship. We'll call him Todd. Todd and I had been best friends for 5 years. Very nuetral, in the beginning I think. Well, I'll admit it there was an attraction there. The first time I ever saw him in passing, I thought Wow, I could marry a guy like that. I mean really who thinks like that? We never formally met until a few years later. We became close after I shared some hurtful events in my life and he helped me through it, by helping me find my spiritual belief again. He was awesome. As long as we were friends. So anyways after me and Jack broke up a few months later me and Todd decided to take our friendship to the next level. It was nice, I liked it. We could talk about anything, and I knew he loved me more than life itself. But like life, I wasn't perfect. I had deep sexual abuse and rape issues that I was confronting and had internal tissues inside my body that were cancerous. What a combination. To this day I believe the two are linked the physical cancer and the emotional cancer. So he was very supportive and loving. At the same time he was going through some abandonment issues. As was I. During my counseling, my psychologist informed that I would need a support team during my counseling treatment. My abandonment issue rose-up when I asked my mother to support me and she flat out turned me down said I needed to ask one of my aunties to support me. (Later on, I did, and my Aunt was awesome support). At that time, I was pissed and hurt. All this stuff was going on and me and Todd were trying to have a relationship. It was sticky and I knew he was ready for marriage. I thought I was, but then I changed my mind. It was too much for me, the counseling and cancer stuff. He ultimately needed my support, and by all means, I should have supported him. But I've come to understand, like my mother, I couldn't give what I didn't have. And at that time I had nothing to give.
So maybe the moral of the story isn't that my boyfriends were a__holes. Cause they aren't. Bill is very intelligent and I know he loves his son more than anything, he just can't be what he never had, -a good father. And Jack, he, however is a good father and was to my son. I'll always love him for that. We were just so young, we really didn't have much in common at all. Our spirituality, our prayers, our way of life. -We both love, to this day, so much, and still run into each other at those events. But like I said on daily basis, we had nothing in common. And lastly Todd, who I thought was my biggest regret, actually turns out to be a neutral regret. Later on I contacted him and apologized for everything that happened the way it did. Probably hoping for some romantic reunion. Never happened. He said he was over it. That was a couple years ago.
I'm past the point in my life, where I have to cut people down to feel better about the decisions I made, it doesn't work. In each of those relationships, there were two of us. Today I can truthfully say, I might be ok, if this so called Mr. Right came along. But if there's anything I've learned, it's that relationships take work. That means working on yourself, first, because you can't change anyone. And most importantly, you can't give what you don't have, and that means -love.
Here it comes, the moral of the story. Dunnn, Dunnn, Dunn...If you don't love yourself completely, How can you even begin to think you can honestly love another person?
That's my Jedi knowledge for today.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
OMG, its True.
Hello World.
I'm a little reluctant to put my thoughts and opinions out there for the simple fact that; once I say it, I can't take it back.
Thinking about what how something I write, could hurt another person's feelings really bothers me, along with the fact that it's going to be forever in cyberspace doesn't help my anxiety either.
I'll say this in advance, sorry if anyone's feelings got hurt. This is my way of expressing myself, for my own sanity. This blog was not my intention to use to hurt anyone through; thought, word or deed.
But here goes, wish me luck. Purely and ONLY *my opinions in this blog. (Crossies)
All My best,
~Sarah
I'm a little reluctant to put my thoughts and opinions out there for the simple fact that; once I say it, I can't take it back.
Thinking about what how something I write, could hurt another person's feelings really bothers me, along with the fact that it's going to be forever in cyberspace doesn't help my anxiety either.
I'll say this in advance, sorry if anyone's feelings got hurt. This is my way of expressing myself, for my own sanity. This blog was not my intention to use to hurt anyone through; thought, word or deed.
But here goes, wish me luck. Purely and ONLY *my opinions in this blog. (Crossies)
All My best,
~Sarah
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Past Newspaper Articles I've written.
Sisseton Revives Forgotten AIM Chapter ..:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" />
By Sarah A. Weston
HANKINSON, ND – "I've been asked to come here by local members of the community, to assist them in the establishment of an AIM chapter," said Dennis Banks (Anishinabe), Native American Activist and Co-Founder of AIM (American Indian Movement)"
A group a approximately 50 or more Native people met on Friday, January 11, 2007 in the Red Iron room at the Dakota Magic Casino to revive a their Chapter of AIM.
Originally the meeting was scheduled and held the night before, Thursday, January 10, 2007.
Banks said, "We didn't have enough time to finish. I said, we'll come tonight and have this meeting."
"They're talking about the misuse of police power, misuse of authority. They're talking about discriminatory practices at public school against Native students. They're also talking about homelessness," says Banks.
Milton Eastman an elder and member of the Sisseton Wahpeton Tribe, says that, "We have limited success in trying to talk to our community."
The discussions were lead by Darren Redday and each person in attendance was given a chance to stand up and voice their opinions and declare their issues.
It became apparent racism was the group's most pressing issue in the Community of Sisseton, SD.
One elder woman, Rose Max sat down and spoke through the microphone, "A lot of racism, it's almost like you can't do a thing. So many times I hung my head and felt like I was defeated."
According to Banks the Sisseton Wahpeton Chapter of AIM has been inactive for 25 years.
Presently Banks says the only active chapter of AIM is in Pine Ridge, SD.
The consensus of the group was the court system in their community is bias in racism to the Native community.
"They say it's a cash crop from our children, we used to leave the court system holding our heads crying because there wasn't a thing we could do," said Max.
During the various discussions the group voted on a name for their chapter. Out of four traditional
names, the group voted on "Tate Yutokca" which means, "Winds of Change."
Max said, "Unite, unite to help our children. We can't back down, we have to keep going. There has to be a way to stand up here and start fighting back. 'Wocekiya Nina Washakiya' -Prayer is Powerful."
Banks encouraged the group, "Because of the racist attitude in Sisseton to shut her down."
He added, "Can we boycott the town of Sisseton?"
Having conducted a successful boycott in the past, Banks offered his direction on how to make it possible.
According to http://www.city-data.com/city/Sisseton-South-Dakota.html the population of Sisseton is estimated at 2,522. The website says the races that make up the population are as follows; White non-Hispanic 55.8%, American Indian 43.2%, Two or more races 2.6%, Hispanic 1.1%.
After forming subcommittees the group draws an outline for a course of action for each issue addressed at the meeting.
As the meeting was coming to a close Max said, "We want to hear what the young people have to say, because we never give them a chance."
Kathryn Akipa, a member of the Community and instructor at the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate College said. "It's time to pass that over to next generation."
When the meeting adjourned the group scheduled another meeting the following Friday.
9th Annual Native American Music Awards
Sarah A. Weston
Journal Editorial Assistant
Niagara Falls, NY – "I'm the stage announcer; I've been the stage announcer since its inception at the Fox theater at Foxwoods in Mashantucket, Connecticut, the very first year. At that time they had me co-hosting. My co-host at that time was Wayne Newton. I shared a dressing room with and I think that was the highlight of my life," said Dale Oldhorn, Stage Announcer at this year's Ninth Annual Native American Music Awards.
The Native American Music Awards, held on October 6th, 2007, and is commonly known as the "NAMMY's" or "NAMA." Which ever way it gets labeled, Native people understand that the prestige behind the name remains.
This year's ninth annual show was held at the Seneca Niagara Casino and Hotel in the events center.
People showed up in ticket lines wearing their best clothes, some women were in ball gowns and the men in their tuxes. To add that "Native flair," some of the men wore bolo ties with their tuxes, while others completed their look with their long hair pulled back.
Before the show, the lobby was packed. There wasn't much room to move about, but the excitement, associated with the event's pageantry, was in the air.
At 8pm, the show started-right on time. Two video screens served as bookends for a stage background that doubled as an embedded light display.
The show was professional with all the glamour of the Grammy's. Upon entering the event center, ushers waited to assist the audience members in finding their seats.
The show kicked off with dancers from the Iroquois nation, who performed their nation's social dances. They, along with a grassdancer and a fancyshawl dancer, provided visual entertainment with artists performing on stage.
Tonemah wowed the audience with his own song dubbed "Powwow Snag."
He captivated the audience with his catchy lyrics and stage presence. Later that evening, he was bestowed with the NAMMY for Best Folk Recording, for his CD titled, "Welcome to your Rainy Day."
The newest act, hailing from Canada's First Nation's people, was Digging Roots.
The band's website describes them as "New leaders of the old school of rebel music. From the first listen, the songs about culture, freedom, and identity are undeniably hard-hitting, hopeful and honest."
Digging Roots played its song "Wake up and Rise," which was about positive empowerment within our native culture. Along with the message, the band mates' charismatic personalities made this group a favorite amongst the audience.
South Dakota's own Gabriel Nightshield won for Best Rap/Hip-Hop Recording. In his acceptance speech he dedicated his award to his daughter.
NightShield said, "It's Crazy, I was not expecting to win. It was a total shock."
Marco Frucht, Stage Manager and Veteran Volunteer for the NAMMY's said the show sold out of tickets and they ended up adding more rows within the fire code.
Frucht also said, "This is the best venue we've ever been too. The show was phenomenal!"
James Bordeaux, Producer and Coordinator for the show said, "Because of a lot of people's time and effort, there's no other way the show would happen."
Bordeaux also adds, "I wish a lot more of our Indian people across the country would be able to see the show. We want more of our native people to see it."
Ellen Bello, Founder and CEO of the Annual Native American Music Awards added, "Shakopee was a Silver sponsor and we are very grateful for their support. We could not do produce a show of this magnitude without them."
Glen Ahhaitty of Canyon Records was nominated for Songwriter of the Year for "True Lies from the Road".
Ahhaitty describes music and his fellow artists, "It's a gift from the creator, a gift from god to be able to take emotions and put them out into music that people listen to and take something away from it. Whether I listen to a really good Powwow song, or a good Religious Native American song, or I listen to a Jimi Hendrix song, you can tell it's god given talent, god given gifts. -That move people and evoke emotion. To me that's music. Music is Music. It transcends ethnic lines and different genres."
BLUEDOG nominated for NAMMY
By Sarah A. Weston
MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. – For the second time and as many years, blues rock band, Bluedog has been nominated for a Native American Grammy Award. The group's latest Album "A Little White Lie" is up for Best Blues/Jazz Recording at this year's Ninth Annual Native American Grammy Awards
"They were nominated for the first time last year…Rita Coolidge won the category," says Ellen Bello, Founder and CEO of the Native American Grammy Awards.
The Native American blues rock band was established in 2002 by co-founders, Eric Buffalohead, Ponca and his wife, Joni Buffalohead, Sisseton-Wahpeton.
Eric Buffalohead is the lead guitarist. Joni Buffalohead is the lead vocalist for the Band.
Their three children are included in the band, daughter, Alexandra Buffalohead, 16, plays the keys and sings background vocals for the band. Their two youngest twin boys, Eli and Ira, 10, play percussions.
Completing the group are; Chuck Davis, Oglala, percussions and background vocals, Tom Suess, on the bass, and Jeremy Claymore, Cheyenne River Sioux, keeps time on the drums.
Chuck Davis said, "We're very honored and fortunate to be nominated for a second year."
"We're totally excited, totally honored. We feel really lucky, because there's so many really good Native artists out there. It's just a huge honor," said Joni Buffalohead.
"I'm pretty excited about it," says Tom Suess
Jeremy Claymore, the group's drummer was left speechless, "I don't know what to say, I really don't."
Bluedog is known for it's "rock the house" sound that leaves the audience wanting more. At a recent event taking place at Minneapolis Indian Center, reactions from the crowd were nothing but "wow."
A spectator from the crowd said, "they totally rocked."
Their sound is reminiscent of the great blues artists before them with large doses of Jimi Hendrix and Stevie Ray Vaughn all mixed in the with Bluedog's own unique style.
Although the group is only in its toddler years, co-founders, Eric and Joni Buffalohead say they would like to accrue Lakota/ Dakota support and commence a mini tour around the Dakotas.
When asked how the band came up with its name, Joni Buffalohead replied, "Blackdog was taken, reddog was inappropriate, but I wanted to name it something that Indian people would recognize."
"I asked one of my Grandmothers about Bluedog, she said it was a lake in Sisseton, and that's the name we went with."
Aside from their love of music, the group sets their standards high in life.
Eric Buffalohead, co-founder and lead guitarist, is a Professor and Chair of the American Indian Studies Program at Augsburg College in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Joni Buffalohead, co-founder and lead vocalist, recently completed her Ph. D in pharmaceutical care and clinical pharmacy, and now works as the Pharmacy Administrator for the
Fond du lac Lake Superior Band of Chippewa.
Their three children all attend college preparatory school in Minneapolis.
Chuck Davis, percussionist is a youth group coordinator for the Ho-Chunk Nation.
A former United States Marine, Tom Suess is an electrician and EOE member.
"We wish all the other people the best of luck, we had a great year, and
I've had a great time playing with Bluedog," said Chuck Davis
Bluedog's first CD "From All Directions" was nominated twice in the 2006 Native American Music Awards for Debut Artist and Best Blues Recording.
The group was also nominated in 2006 for the Indian Summer Music Awards for Best Blues Recording.
The group consists of three generations with ages ranging from 10 to 50 years old. Joni Buffalohead says, "Our music reflects the past, present and future experiences for Indian people. Bluedog accepts the responsibility to provide a positive image."
The following Native Artists are also NAMMY nominees for the Best Blues/Jazz recording; Bluedog, "A Little White Lie," Corn-Bred, "Corn-Bred," Cocoa Creppel & Cannes, "Brulees Raising Cane," Slidin Clyde Roulette Band, "Let's Take A Ride," South Thunderbird, "Tough Go," and The Plateros for "The Plateros."
To vote for your favorite NAMMY nominated artist or group go to http://www.votenative.com. Public voting closes September 30, 2007.
Ellen Bello, CEO of the Native American Grammy Awards Show says. "Half the categories are announced throughout the show with presenters and a trophy."
She explains that because of the time constraints the other half are announced at the beginning of the second half of the show.
The show is bound keep the audience and especially the artists at the edge of their seats because Ellen Bello says, "No one knows they've won until the Awards show, when all the winners are announced."
Paying Tribute to Vietname Veterans
By Sarah A. Weston
Journal Editorial Assistant
SIOUX FALLS – "Said goodbye to his mamma, as he left South Dakota, to fight for the Red, White, and Blue. He was nineteen and green with a new M-16, just doing what he had to do."
These were the lyrics from a song, The 8th of November, by Big & Rich, that inspired event planners Beth and Roxanne to have The Vietnam Veteran's Reunion on August 7th, 2007, opening day of the Sioux Empire fair in Sioux Falls.
"When we heard Big & Rich was coming to town, we knew a number of Vietnam Veterans would be attending the concert because of the performance of the song, It was the perfect opportunity to provide a place and time for them to get together again!" said Bethany Erck, Co-coordinator of the Reunion, and owner of E-commerce Store, Vet's Wear.com.
Last September was a Dedication to the Vietnam Veterans of South Dakota, that event took place in Pierre alongside the Moving Wall, a traveling half size replica of the Vietnam Veteran's Memorial Wall in Washington D.C.
"The event in Pierre was a dedication the South Dakota Vietnam Veterans, not a reunion," said Roxann Zenobi, Co-coordinator of the Vietnam Veterans Reunion and Owner of ABN Army Surplus.
"I attended a Vietnam Veterans memorial event in Pierre last summer. I was able to coordinate that for the VA. Also my son served a tour of duty in Iraq. Ironically, he was medic at a clinic in Iraq and I was medic in Vietnam," added Bryan Wallon. A Vietnam Veteran, medic with a reconnaissance unit 196 brigade Americal Division in Vietnam from 1971-1972, and team leader at Sioux Falls VA center.
The program was emceed by Doug Lund of Keloland TV, who spoke of his service in the military, but added much to his sadness, that he wasn't sent to Vietnam.
Jerry Hoff, of the Tea American Legion paid tribute to the POW's and MIA soldiers.
Tea American Legion Honor Guard presented the colors of the flags representing different branches of the military.
And a young Ms. Brandy Ramm sang the National Anthem, while the veterans saluted the flag. Afterward a moment of silence was observed.
A man by the name of Rich Crawford, 1st Lieutenant of the 9th Infantry Division 1969-1968, lead the roll call.
Mayor Dave Munson of Sioux Falls welcomed the Veterans and gave warm speech addressing the Vietnam Veterans of South Dakota. This was followed by the County Commissioner's welcome.
Closing of the program was a prayer of the meal, by Chaplain, Steven Corum.
Over 40 staff members from the V.A. volunteered their time throughout the 3-hour event.
"I think it's important to publicly recognize the contribution of all military veterans and Vietnam veterans and Native American Veterans for the contribution given that they're a warrior society. I think white society can take stalk from the Native American culture and how they treat warriors," said Wallon.
Mark St. Pierre, author of Of Uncommon Birth, who also attended the event says, "I think it's important for people to realize that South Dakota sent more men to Vietnam than any other state per capita. We know that Native people served in larger numbers than any other ethnic group and South Dakota served in large numbers compared to a lot of other states."
Roxann Zenobi says, "Thirty years ago when the vets were coming home, they were not treated as heroes. There were no parades, no yellow ribbons and certainly no support groups."<>
Bethany Erck is the daughter of a Vietnam Veteran and says, "I was born in 1974, so all I know is what vets have told me and their 'welcome' ranged from unpleasant to nearly deadly."
She goes on to explain that at that time the war was unaccepted by the public and it was popular to protest the war in college campuses.
"They had their reasons to protest, but it didn't do any favors for my dad or any other soldiers, who hadn't chosen to go, but did so because their country asked them to go, only to return home and be labeled as 'baby killers' and worse," said Erck.
Dennis Quigley, an Iraqi Freedom Veteran, said this is the first event for him.
"I think events like this where it's involving our Vietnam Veterans, I would really like to see more of our Indian Veterans attending these functions because they rightfully have just as much importance as everyone else. And in time hopefully they'll understand they deserve to represented at functions like this."
"We have a lot of well decorated Veterans from the Vietnam era that are struggling with a lot of anger and mental health issues that affects their day to day living. It's important that they also learn how to go through the healing process. The whole country has just began to address the Vietnam Veterans and start welcoming them home they way should've done years ago," says Quigley.
Wallon said, "It's important for Vietnam Veterans to publicly acknowledge their contribution. And interact with each other and share some of their experiences, I really think that helps with the healing process."
Shirley Redmond, a Public Affairs Officer at the VA Medical Center said, "I've been working with Beth and Roxanne to encourage vets to get together. It's always healing when they get together. The camaraderie that they share. And we're honored to be a part of it."
"My husband is a combat Vietnam veteran, 101st Airborne Division, served in Vietnam 67-68. He says you can never do enough to repay veterans of any war or conflict for putting their lives on the line 24/7, these soldiers are hero's and without them where would this country be?" Zenobi said.
Erck says, "Now America has learned from the Vietnam veterans and we treat our young soldiers with more gratitude and more respect. The Vietnam veterans paved the way for the Parades. They were the ones that taught America that you can hate the war all you want, but don't hate the ones who were doing what country asked them to do."
Zenobi finishes saying, "Our suggestion to all citizens of South Dakota is to talk, but most of all listen to our vets and let them know we respect them and are proud to know them.
Clean-up Begins on Collapsed Bridge
By Sarah A. Weston
Journal Editorial Assistant
MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. – It was a clear hot muggy day when city workers began clean-up ..math of the infamous 35W bridge collapse, this past Friday, August 10, 2007.
One of the cranes positioned itself above a vehicle preparing to move it off the deformed bridge.
Most of the media and spectators were blocked off from attempting to get to close to the
wreckage. Officials onsite weren't commenting to any of the press.
For safety reasons, a highway patrolman was posted on the fenced on top of the bridge to insure the public viewers' safety.
"We can't go down by the water, out of respect for the families, whose bodies they're still pulling out, but we can see the wreckage from here, said Briana Stamper, 20, of Minneapolis.
Over a week later and Minneapolis residents' are still in shock and disbelief what happened.
Stamper says, "It really scares me, cause what if I would have been on there with my son?"
Reports says routine maintance was already underway when the bridge collapsed, but no major contruction work.
Stamper says, "They were working on it, I think, when it happened."
Yolee Ortiz 11, a member of the Red Lake Chippewa, said, "It was really scary, my cousin said we rode that bridge a lot. Imagine if I was on there, what I do?"
From an ariel view the bridge is broken in several places, not just over the river but inland on both sides of the bridge.
A.J. Beaulieau, 22, Red Lake Chippewa, said, "They only had two lanes open, just think if they had all four lanes open, there might have been four-hundred people on that bridge when it collapsed."
Article -Powwow Comedy Jam Tours S.D.
By Sarah A. Weston
Journal Editorial Assistant
FLANDREAU – Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe's Royal River Casino was the stomping ground for the Powwow Comedy Jam Monday June 11, 2007.
"This is my very first time in Flandreau. I love this place, beautiful town," said Vaughn
EagleBear.
EagleBear opened the event with off-set Native humor and hosted throughout the night. He describes his comedic style as ADHD, one-liner, wannabe rockstar wasn't good enough to be rockstar turned comedian.
"I know a diabetic named Candy…she hates it when I call her sugar," EagleBear jokes.
"I'm from Spokane, Washington. Representin'! My dad's from Rosebud and my mom is from the Colville Tribe in Washington. I was raised a little bit back and forth."
Caught in one of his serious moments, EagleBear says one of his goals is to encourage the youth stay strong, and follow your dreams. He also added that he would like to bring attention to Diabetes.
"Everyone in my family has diabetes, I don't have diabetes, yet. And I don't want diabetes. So diabetes, get off your butt and get out there and exercise and put down those Cheetos and Doritos and start drinking water!"
EagleBear is known as the Frybread Assassin, and wrote the infamous song on Smoke Signals –John Wayne's Teeth. He took home 1st place for the 2003 Spokane Comedy Competition.
Also being in high demand in clubs, casinos, and corporate and tribal events around the Pacific Northwest, EagleBear hopes to expand his humor around the world.
The interview process didn't put the brakes on Marc Yaffee, who is a born comedian.
"I'm originally from Los Angeles, I was born in LA. Adopted at birth by a Mexican mother and Jewish father, I call myself an adoptaho. I didn't find out I was Navajo 'til I was twenty-five. All those years of playing cowboys and Indians, I was suiting up for the wrong team."
By Sarah A. Weston
HANKINSON, ND – "I've been asked to come here by local members of the community, to assist them in the establishment of an AIM chapter," said Dennis Banks (Anishinabe), Native American Activist and Co-Founder of AIM (American Indian Movement)"
A group a approximately 50 or more Native people met on Friday, January 11, 2007 in the Red Iron room at the Dakota Magic Casino to revive a their Chapter of AIM.
Originally the meeting was scheduled and held the night before, Thursday, January 10, 2007.
Banks said, "We didn't have enough time to finish. I said, we'll come tonight and have this meeting."
"They're talking about the misuse of police power, misuse of authority. They're talking about discriminatory practices at public school against Native students. They're also talking about homelessness," says Banks.
Milton Eastman an elder and member of the Sisseton Wahpeton Tribe, says that, "We have limited success in trying to talk to our community."
The discussions were lead by Darren Redday and each person in attendance was given a chance to stand up and voice their opinions and declare their issues.
It became apparent racism was the group's most pressing issue in the Community of Sisseton, SD.
One elder woman, Rose Max sat down and spoke through the microphone, "A lot of racism, it's almost like you can't do a thing. So many times I hung my head and felt like I was defeated."
According to Banks the Sisseton Wahpeton Chapter of AIM has been inactive for 25 years.
Presently Banks says the only active chapter of AIM is in Pine Ridge, SD.
The consensus of the group was the court system in their community is bias in racism to the Native community.
"They say it's a cash crop from our children, we used to leave the court system holding our heads crying because there wasn't a thing we could do," said Max.
During the various discussions the group voted on a name for their chapter. Out of four traditional
names, the group voted on "Tate Yutokca" which means, "Winds of Change."
Max said, "Unite, unite to help our children. We can't back down, we have to keep going. There has to be a way to stand up here and start fighting back. 'Wocekiya Nina Washakiya' -Prayer is Powerful."
Banks encouraged the group, "Because of the racist attitude in Sisseton to shut her down."
He added, "Can we boycott the town of Sisseton?"
Having conducted a successful boycott in the past, Banks offered his direction on how to make it possible.
According to http://www.city-data.com/city/Sisseton-South-Dakota.html the population of Sisseton is estimated at 2,522. The website says the races that make up the population are as follows; White non-Hispanic 55.8%, American Indian 43.2%, Two or more races 2.6%, Hispanic 1.1%.
After forming subcommittees the group draws an outline for a course of action for each issue addressed at the meeting.
As the meeting was coming to a close Max said, "We want to hear what the young people have to say, because we never give them a chance."
Kathryn Akipa, a member of the Community and instructor at the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate College said. "It's time to pass that over to next generation."
When the meeting adjourned the group scheduled another meeting the following Friday.
9th Annual Native American Music Awards
Sarah A. Weston
Journal Editorial Assistant
Niagara Falls, NY – "I'm the stage announcer; I've been the stage announcer since its inception at the Fox theater at Foxwoods in Mashantucket, Connecticut, the very first year. At that time they had me co-hosting. My co-host at that time was Wayne Newton. I shared a dressing room with and I think that was the highlight of my life," said Dale Oldhorn, Stage Announcer at this year's Ninth Annual Native American Music Awards.
The Native American Music Awards, held on October 6th, 2007, and is commonly known as the "NAMMY's" or "NAMA." Which ever way it gets labeled, Native people understand that the prestige behind the name remains.
This year's ninth annual show was held at the Seneca Niagara Casino and Hotel in the events center.
People showed up in ticket lines wearing their best clothes, some women were in ball gowns and the men in their tuxes. To add that "Native flair," some of the men wore bolo ties with their tuxes, while others completed their look with their long hair pulled back.
Before the show, the lobby was packed. There wasn't much room to move about, but the excitement, associated with the event's pageantry, was in the air.
At 8pm, the show started-right on time. Two video screens served as bookends for a stage background that doubled as an embedded light display.
The show was professional with all the glamour of the Grammy's. Upon entering the event center, ushers waited to assist the audience members in finding their seats.
The show kicked off with dancers from the Iroquois nation, who performed their nation's social dances. They, along with a grassdancer and a fancyshawl dancer, provided visual entertainment with artists performing on stage.
Tonemah wowed the audience with his own song dubbed "Powwow Snag."
He captivated the audience with his catchy lyrics and stage presence. Later that evening, he was bestowed with the NAMMY for Best Folk Recording, for his CD titled, "Welcome to your Rainy Day."
The newest act, hailing from Canada's First Nation's people, was Digging Roots.
The band's website describes them as "New leaders of the old school of rebel music. From the first listen, the songs about culture, freedom, and identity are undeniably hard-hitting, hopeful and honest."
Digging Roots played its song "Wake up and Rise," which was about positive empowerment within our native culture. Along with the message, the band mates' charismatic personalities made this group a favorite amongst the audience.
South Dakota's own Gabriel Nightshield won for Best Rap/Hip-Hop Recording. In his acceptance speech he dedicated his award to his daughter.
NightShield said, "It's Crazy, I was not expecting to win. It was a total shock."
Marco Frucht, Stage Manager and Veteran Volunteer for the NAMMY's said the show sold out of tickets and they ended up adding more rows within the fire code.
Frucht also said, "This is the best venue we've ever been too. The show was phenomenal!"
James Bordeaux, Producer and Coordinator for the show said, "Because of a lot of people's time and effort, there's no other way the show would happen."
Bordeaux also adds, "I wish a lot more of our Indian people across the country would be able to see the show. We want more of our native people to see it."
Ellen Bello, Founder and CEO of the Annual Native American Music Awards added, "Shakopee was a Silver sponsor and we are very grateful for their support. We could not do produce a show of this magnitude without them."
Glen Ahhaitty of Canyon Records was nominated for Songwriter of the Year for "True Lies from the Road".
Ahhaitty describes music and his fellow artists, "It's a gift from the creator, a gift from god to be able to take emotions and put them out into music that people listen to and take something away from it. Whether I listen to a really good Powwow song, or a good Religious Native American song, or I listen to a Jimi Hendrix song, you can tell it's god given talent, god given gifts. -That move people and evoke emotion. To me that's music. Music is Music. It transcends ethnic lines and different genres."
BLUEDOG nominated for NAMMY
By Sarah A. Weston
MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. – For the second time and as many years, blues rock band, Bluedog has been nominated for a Native American Grammy Award. The group's latest Album "A Little White Lie" is up for Best Blues/Jazz Recording at this year's Ninth Annual Native American Grammy Awards
"They were nominated for the first time last year…Rita Coolidge won the category," says Ellen Bello, Founder and CEO of the Native American Grammy Awards.
The Native American blues rock band was established in 2002 by co-founders, Eric Buffalohead, Ponca and his wife, Joni Buffalohead, Sisseton-Wahpeton.
Eric Buffalohead is the lead guitarist. Joni Buffalohead is the lead vocalist for the Band.
Their three children are included in the band, daughter, Alexandra Buffalohead, 16, plays the keys and sings background vocals for the band. Their two youngest twin boys, Eli and Ira, 10, play percussions.
Completing the group are; Chuck Davis, Oglala, percussions and background vocals, Tom Suess, on the bass, and Jeremy Claymore, Cheyenne River Sioux, keeps time on the drums.
Chuck Davis said, "We're very honored and fortunate to be nominated for a second year."
"We're totally excited, totally honored. We feel really lucky, because there's so many really good Native artists out there. It's just a huge honor," said Joni Buffalohead.
"I'm pretty excited about it," says Tom Suess
Jeremy Claymore, the group's drummer was left speechless, "I don't know what to say, I really don't."
Bluedog is known for it's "rock the house" sound that leaves the audience wanting more. At a recent event taking place at Minneapolis Indian Center, reactions from the crowd were nothing but "wow."
A spectator from the crowd said, "they totally rocked."
Their sound is reminiscent of the great blues artists before them with large doses of Jimi Hendrix and Stevie Ray Vaughn all mixed in the with Bluedog's own unique style.
Although the group is only in its toddler years, co-founders, Eric and Joni Buffalohead say they would like to accrue Lakota/ Dakota support and commence a mini tour around the Dakotas.
When asked how the band came up with its name, Joni Buffalohead replied, "Blackdog was taken, reddog was inappropriate, but I wanted to name it something that Indian people would recognize."
"I asked one of my Grandmothers about Bluedog, she said it was a lake in Sisseton, and that's the name we went with."
Aside from their love of music, the group sets their standards high in life.
Eric Buffalohead, co-founder and lead guitarist, is a Professor and Chair of the American Indian Studies Program at Augsburg College in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Joni Buffalohead, co-founder and lead vocalist, recently completed her Ph. D in pharmaceutical care and clinical pharmacy, and now works as the Pharmacy Administrator for the
Fond du lac Lake Superior Band of Chippewa.
Their three children all attend college preparatory school in Minneapolis.
Chuck Davis, percussionist is a youth group coordinator for the Ho-Chunk Nation.
A former United States Marine, Tom Suess is an electrician and EOE member.
"We wish all the other people the best of luck, we had a great year, and
I've had a great time playing with Bluedog," said Chuck Davis
Bluedog's first CD "From All Directions" was nominated twice in the 2006 Native American Music Awards for Debut Artist and Best Blues Recording.
The group was also nominated in 2006 for the Indian Summer Music Awards for Best Blues Recording.
The group consists of three generations with ages ranging from 10 to 50 years old. Joni Buffalohead says, "Our music reflects the past, present and future experiences for Indian people. Bluedog accepts the responsibility to provide a positive image."
The following Native Artists are also NAMMY nominees for the Best Blues/Jazz recording; Bluedog, "A Little White Lie," Corn-Bred, "Corn-Bred," Cocoa Creppel & Cannes, "Brulees Raising Cane," Slidin Clyde Roulette Band, "Let's Take A Ride," South Thunderbird, "Tough Go," and The Plateros for "The Plateros."
To vote for your favorite NAMMY nominated artist or group go to http://www.votenative.com. Public voting closes September 30, 2007.
Ellen Bello, CEO of the Native American Grammy Awards Show says. "Half the categories are announced throughout the show with presenters and a trophy."
She explains that because of the time constraints the other half are announced at the beginning of the second half of the show.
The show is bound keep the audience and especially the artists at the edge of their seats because Ellen Bello says, "No one knows they've won until the Awards show, when all the winners are announced."
Paying Tribute to Vietname Veterans
By Sarah A. Weston
Journal Editorial Assistant
SIOUX FALLS – "Said goodbye to his mamma, as he left South Dakota, to fight for the Red, White, and Blue. He was nineteen and green with a new M-16, just doing what he had to do."
These were the lyrics from a song, The 8th of November, by Big & Rich, that inspired event planners Beth and Roxanne to have The Vietnam Veteran's Reunion on August 7th, 2007, opening day of the Sioux Empire fair in Sioux Falls.
"When we heard Big & Rich was coming to town, we knew a number of Vietnam Veterans would be attending the concert because of the performance of the song, It was the perfect opportunity to provide a place and time for them to get together again!" said Bethany Erck, Co-coordinator of the Reunion, and owner of E-commerce Store, Vet's Wear.com.
Last September was a Dedication to the Vietnam Veterans of South Dakota, that event took place in Pierre alongside the Moving Wall, a traveling half size replica of the Vietnam Veteran's Memorial Wall in Washington D.C.
"The event in Pierre was a dedication the South Dakota Vietnam Veterans, not a reunion," said Roxann Zenobi, Co-coordinator of the Vietnam Veterans Reunion and Owner of ABN Army Surplus.
"I attended a Vietnam Veterans memorial event in Pierre last summer. I was able to coordinate that for the VA. Also my son served a tour of duty in Iraq. Ironically, he was medic at a clinic in Iraq and I was medic in Vietnam," added Bryan Wallon. A Vietnam Veteran, medic with a reconnaissance unit 196 brigade Americal Division in Vietnam from 1971-1972, and team leader at Sioux Falls VA center.
The program was emceed by Doug Lund of Keloland TV, who spoke of his service in the military, but added much to his sadness, that he wasn't sent to Vietnam.
Jerry Hoff, of the Tea American Legion paid tribute to the POW's and MIA soldiers.
Tea American Legion Honor Guard presented the colors of the flags representing different branches of the military.
And a young Ms. Brandy Ramm sang the National Anthem, while the veterans saluted the flag. Afterward a moment of silence was observed.
A man by the name of Rich Crawford, 1st Lieutenant of the 9th Infantry Division 1969-1968, lead the roll call.
Mayor Dave Munson of Sioux Falls welcomed the Veterans and gave warm speech addressing the Vietnam Veterans of South Dakota. This was followed by the County Commissioner's welcome.
Closing of the program was a prayer of the meal, by Chaplain, Steven Corum.
Over 40 staff members from the V.A. volunteered their time throughout the 3-hour event.
"I think it's important to publicly recognize the contribution of all military veterans and Vietnam veterans and Native American Veterans for the contribution given that they're a warrior society. I think white society can take stalk from the Native American culture and how they treat warriors," said Wallon.
Mark St. Pierre, author of Of Uncommon Birth, who also attended the event says, "I think it's important for people to realize that South Dakota sent more men to Vietnam than any other state per capita. We know that Native people served in larger numbers than any other ethnic group and South Dakota served in large numbers compared to a lot of other states."
Roxann Zenobi says, "Thirty years ago when the vets were coming home, they were not treated as heroes. There were no parades, no yellow ribbons and certainly no support groups."<>
Bethany Erck is the daughter of a Vietnam Veteran and says, "I was born in 1974, so all I know is what vets have told me and their 'welcome' ranged from unpleasant to nearly deadly."
She goes on to explain that at that time the war was unaccepted by the public and it was popular to protest the war in college campuses.
"They had their reasons to protest, but it didn't do any favors for my dad or any other soldiers, who hadn't chosen to go, but did so because their country asked them to go, only to return home and be labeled as 'baby killers' and worse," said Erck.
Dennis Quigley, an Iraqi Freedom Veteran, said this is the first event for him.
"I think events like this where it's involving our Vietnam Veterans, I would really like to see more of our Indian Veterans attending these functions because they rightfully have just as much importance as everyone else. And in time hopefully they'll understand they deserve to represented at functions like this."
"We have a lot of well decorated Veterans from the Vietnam era that are struggling with a lot of anger and mental health issues that affects their day to day living. It's important that they also learn how to go through the healing process. The whole country has just began to address the Vietnam Veterans and start welcoming them home they way should've done years ago," says Quigley.
Wallon said, "It's important for Vietnam Veterans to publicly acknowledge their contribution. And interact with each other and share some of their experiences, I really think that helps with the healing process."
Shirley Redmond, a Public Affairs Officer at the VA Medical Center said, "I've been working with Beth and Roxanne to encourage vets to get together. It's always healing when they get together. The camaraderie that they share. And we're honored to be a part of it."
"My husband is a combat Vietnam veteran, 101st Airborne Division, served in Vietnam 67-68. He says you can never do enough to repay veterans of any war or conflict for putting their lives on the line 24/7, these soldiers are hero's and without them where would this country be?" Zenobi said.
Erck says, "Now America has learned from the Vietnam veterans and we treat our young soldiers with more gratitude and more respect. The Vietnam veterans paved the way for the Parades. They were the ones that taught America that you can hate the war all you want, but don't hate the ones who were doing what country asked them to do."
Zenobi finishes saying, "Our suggestion to all citizens of South Dakota is to talk, but most of all listen to our vets and let them know we respect them and are proud to know them.
Clean-up Begins on Collapsed Bridge
By Sarah A. Weston
Journal Editorial Assistant
MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. – It was a clear hot muggy day when city workers began clean-up ..math of the infamous 35W bridge collapse, this past Friday, August 10, 2007.
One of the cranes positioned itself above a vehicle preparing to move it off the deformed bridge.
Most of the media and spectators were blocked off from attempting to get to close to the
wreckage. Officials onsite weren't commenting to any of the press.
For safety reasons, a highway patrolman was posted on the fenced on top of the bridge to insure the public viewers' safety.
"We can't go down by the water, out of respect for the families, whose bodies they're still pulling out, but we can see the wreckage from here, said Briana Stamper, 20, of Minneapolis.
Over a week later and Minneapolis residents' are still in shock and disbelief what happened.
Stamper says, "It really scares me, cause what if I would have been on there with my son?"
Reports says routine maintance was already underway when the bridge collapsed, but no major contruction work.
Stamper says, "They were working on it, I think, when it happened."
Yolee Ortiz 11, a member of the Red Lake Chippewa, said, "It was really scary, my cousin said we rode that bridge a lot. Imagine if I was on there, what I do?"
From an ariel view the bridge is broken in several places, not just over the river but inland on both sides of the bridge.
A.J. Beaulieau, 22, Red Lake Chippewa, said, "They only had two lanes open, just think if they had all four lanes open, there might have been four-hundred people on that bridge when it collapsed."
Article -Powwow Comedy Jam Tours S.D.
By Sarah A. Weston
Journal Editorial Assistant
FLANDREAU – Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe's Royal River Casino was the stomping ground for the Powwow Comedy Jam Monday June 11, 2007.
"This is my very first time in Flandreau. I love this place, beautiful town," said Vaughn
EagleBear.
EagleBear opened the event with off-set Native humor and hosted throughout the night. He describes his comedic style as ADHD, one-liner, wannabe rockstar wasn't good enough to be rockstar turned comedian.
"I know a diabetic named Candy…she hates it when I call her sugar," EagleBear jokes.
"I'm from Spokane, Washington. Representin'! My dad's from Rosebud and my mom is from the Colville Tribe in Washington. I was raised a little bit back and forth."
Caught in one of his serious moments, EagleBear says one of his goals is to encourage the youth stay strong, and follow your dreams. He also added that he would like to bring attention to Diabetes.
"Everyone in my family has diabetes, I don't have diabetes, yet. And I don't want diabetes. So diabetes, get off your butt and get out there and exercise and put down those Cheetos and Doritos and start drinking water!"
EagleBear is known as the Frybread Assassin, and wrote the infamous song on Smoke Signals –John Wayne's Teeth. He took home 1st place for the 2003 Spokane Comedy Competition.
Also being in high demand in clubs, casinos, and corporate and tribal events around the Pacific Northwest, EagleBear hopes to expand his humor around the world.
The interview process didn't put the brakes on Marc Yaffee, who is a born comedian.
"I'm originally from Los Angeles, I was born in LA. Adopted at birth by a Mexican mother and Jewish father, I call myself an adoptaho. I didn't find out I was Navajo 'til I was twenty-five. All those years of playing cowboys and Indians, I was suiting up for the wrong team."
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