Indian Voices - Current Issue

Community Comes Together to Honor the
American Indian Veterans at Viejas Pow Wow

Many tribes were involved in the War of 1812, and Indians fought for both sides as auxiliary troops in the Civil War. Scouting the enemy was recognized as a particular skill of the Native American soldier. In 1866, the U.S. Army established its Indian Scouts to exploit this aptitude. It is estimated that more than 12,000 American Indians served in the United States military in World War I. Approximately 600 Oklahoma Indians, mostly Choctaw and Cherokee, were assigned to the 142nd Infantry of the 36th Texas-Oklahoma National Guard Division. The 142nd saw action in France and its soldiers were widely recognized for their contributions in battle. Four men from this unit were awarded the Croix de Guerre, while others received the Church War Cross for gallantry.

It is with this knowledge and historical perspective that a first of its kind in the San Diego area Veterans Pow Wow took place in Alpine CA at the Viejas Reservation. November 7th and 8th American Indian Resource Center Board Members Vera Tucker and Richard Van Dyke are resourceful and committed to the preservation of their community and culture.

While traveling to reservations around the county Vera Tucker was impressed with the way Veterans were honored at their reservations. She had the desire to the same thing in San Diego. Richard Van Dyke a community organizer is from the Omaha Tribe of Nebraska who is now living in the San Diego area.

As a veteran he has strong ties to his military past, the two board members were soon in league and working toward their goal, while enlisting the interest and support of other community members. What followed was an organizational campaign executed with military precision. In order for the Paw Wow to be successful support and assistance was required from Viejas Executive Director of the Indian Resource Center Juan Castellanos said that the help and coordination from Viejas was exceptional, well planned and organized The success of the event goes out to many people including Chairman Bobby Barrett, Viejas,Tribal Council, Viejas Contributions Committee, Viejas Recreation Committee, Councilman Greybuck Espinoza, Charlotte Ochiqui, Director of Community Services, Melanie Jones, Recreation Services Bobette Brown and Robert Scheid, Public Relations… and all the Viejas Governmental employees and special event staff who worked so hard to make this event possible.

In addition to the seasoned dancers, those breaking into the Pow Wow Culture. such as the Soaring Eagles had a chance to participate and contribute to the cultural, life enhancing experience. As if to bring attention to the fragile and significant Circle of Life the brother of Vera Tucker passed away after watching his two grand daughters dance at the Pow Wow honoring Military Veterans. Vera Tucker said of the former Marine. "Then he went home, went to sleep and never woke up." About 35 veterans were honored each given an Eagle Feather engraved with the insignia of their respective branch of service, Five veterans in positions of tribal leadership spoke at the event. They included Hank Murphy, a Sycuan tribal member, Shirley Murphy, Lakota tribal member, Kenny Meza, of the Jamul Indian Village, Viejas tribal member Anthony Pico and Ron Christman, a spiritual leader for the Kumeyaay.

Being both African American and Native American, the duo express the struggles and advantages of being born between races. The music of Dago Braves reflect their life experiences by fusing the original native rhythms of the Kumeyaay Band of Sycuan Indians with the distinct hip hop beats of the San Diego rap scene. The songs on KUMEYAAY COOL GUYZ hit on every part of cousins Terence “Poodeezy” Brown and Mike “Odoe” Allen, who make up Dago Braves, lives. Tracks like FLY CASINO and IMA BRAVE give Dago Braves’ perspective on the pride of the Tribe’s success and the celebrity of Casino life amidst the San Diego community.

“Everyone has their hustle,” says Terence “Poodeezy” Brown, one half of Dago Braves, “the casino is our hustle. It’s what’s bringing the tribal family back together. Until we had the casino the tribal family was spread in every direction just trying to get by. Now we’re together and we’re doing alright.” Then, songs like TOO SOON get more personal, talking about the trials and tribulations of new relationships and the need to take a step back.

Dago Braves recently won the Native American Music Award for Best Rap Hip Hop Recording for their debut album NATIVE AMERICAN HUSTLE, which was released in 2007. “Having the respect of our community means more to us than anything. It is a huge honor for us and we’re so thankful for the acknowledgement,” says Mike “Odeo” Allen. Dago Braves worked with local producers including Da Batkave, Grimmie Recs, Steve Vicious and Dave Moss on NATIVE AMERICAN HUSTLE. Podeezy and Odoe want to continue to create music to represent San Diego and the Sycuan proudly, which is why they

The Age of Transition to begin!
This is a time of transition from one World Age into another

"The Hopi and Mayan elders do not prophesy that everything will come to an end. Rather, this is a time of transition from one World Age into another. The message they give concerns our making a choice of how we enter the future ahead. Our moving through with either resistance or acceptance will determine whether the transition will happen with cataclysmic changes or gradual peace and tranquility. The same theme can be found reflected in the prophecies of many other Native American visionaries from Black Elk to Sun Bear."

We are living today in the cusp of the Mayan end times, the end of a galactic day or time period spanning thousands of years. One galactic day of 25,625 years is divided into five cycles of 5,125 years. The Great Cycle of the Mayan Long Count calendar ends on the winter solstice of 2012 A.D. Following Mayan concepts of cyclic time and World Age transitions, this is as much about beginnings as endings. In fact, it was considered by the ancient Mayans to signify the creation of a new World Age. We are almost at the end of the fifth and final 5,125 year cycle!

Entering Our Galactic Day Many of us are aware of the Mayan calendar but not many people truly understand what it means and how it works. Yes the calendar does end on December 21, 2012, but what does that mean? How does it come to that? What is their calendar based off of? The Mayans had a very precise understanding of our solar system's cycles and believed that these cycles coincided with our spiritual and collective consciousness. The most significant of which has much to do with the 2012 prophecies.

In the following writing, we will walk through the main details of their prophecies surrounding the 2012 transition. How the transition takes place (from an astronomical perspective), what it means for us, and when the cycles take place. We'll start with the basic prophecies and later move deeper into the explanation of the cycles. The Mayans prophesied that from 1999 we have 13 years to realize the changes in our conscious attitude to stray from the path of self-destruction and instead move onto a path that opens our consciousness to integrate us with all that exists. The Mayans knew that our Sun, or Kinich-Ahau, every so often synchronized with the enormous central galaxy. And from this central galaxy received a 'spark' of light which causes the Sun to shine more intensely producing what our scientists call 'solar flares' as well as changes in the Sun's magnetic field.

The Mayans say that this happens every 5,125 years. But also that this causes a displacement in the earths rotation, and because of this movement great catastrophes would be produced. The Mayans believed the universal processes, like the 'breathing' of the galaxy, are cycles that never change. What changes is the consciousness of man that passes through it. Always in a process toward more perfection. Based on their observations, the Mayans predicted that from the initial date of the start of their civilization, 4 Ahau, 8 Cumku which is 3113 B.C., after one cycle being completed 5,125 years in their future, December 21st, 2012. The Sun, having received a powerful ray of synchronizing light from the center of the galaxy, would change its polarity which would produce a great cosmic event that would propel human kind to be ready to cross into a new era, The Golden Age.

It is after this, that the Mayans say we will be ready to go through the door that was left by them, transforming our civilization based on fear to a vibration much higher in harmony. Only from our individual efforts could we avoid the path to great cataclysm that our planet will suffer to start a new era, the sixth cycle of the Sun. The Mayan civilization was in the fifth cycle of the Sun, and there were four other great civilizations before them that were destroyed by great natural disasters. They believed that each cycle was just one stage in the collective consciousness of humanity. In the last cataclysm of the Mayans, the civilization was destroyed by a great flood that left little survivors of which were their descendants. They believed that having known the end of their cycle, mankind would prepare for what is to come in the future and it is because of this that they would have preserved the dominant species; the human race.

They say that coming changes will permit us to make a quantum leap forward in the evolution of our consciousness to create a new civilization that would manifest great harmony and compassion to all humankind. Their first prophecy talks about 'The Time of No-Time'. A period of 20 years, which they call a Katún. The last 20 years of the Sun's cycle of 5,125 years. This cycle is from 1992 - 2012. I'll explain this in greater detail later. They predicted that during these times, solar winds would become more intense and could be seen on the Sun. This would be a time of great realization and great change for mankind. And it would be our own lack of preservation and contamination of the planet that would contribute to these changes.

According to the Mayans, these changes would happen so that mankind comprehends how the universe works so we could advance to superior levels, leaving behind superficial materialism and liberating ourselves from suffering. The Mayans say, that seven years after the start of Katún, which is to say 1999, we would enter a time of darkness which would force us to confront our own conduct. The say that this is the time when mankind will enter 'The Sacred Hall of Mirrors'. Where we will look at ourselves and analyze our behaviors with ourselves, with others, with nature and with the planet in which we live. A time in which all of humanity, by individual conscious decisions, decides to change and eliminate fear and lack of respect from all of our relationships.

The Mayans prophesied that the start of this period would be marked by a solar eclipse on August 11, 1999, known to them as 13 Ahau, 8 Cauac. And would coincide with an unprecedented planetary alignment, the 'Grand Cross' alignment. This would be the last 13 years of the Katón period. The last opportunity for our civilization to realize the changes that are coming at the moment of our spiritual regeneration. For the Mayans, everything is numbers and the time of the 13 sacred numbers started in August 1999.

They predicted that along with the eclipse, the forces of nature would act like a catalyst of changes so accelerated and with such magnitude that mankind would be powerless against them. Also, that our technologies in which we rely on so much would begin to fail us. We would no longer be able to learn from our civilization in the way that we are organized as a society. They said that our internal, spiritual development would require a better place along with a better way to interact with more respect and compassion.

The first prophecies were attained by their study of our Sun. The Mayans discovered that the entire solar system moved. That even our universe has its own cycles. Repetitive periods which begin and end like our day and night. These discoveries lead to the understanding that our solar system rotates on an ellipse that brings our solar system closer and further from the center of the galaxy. In other words, according to the Mayans, our Sun and all of its planets rotate in cycles in relation to the center of the galaxy or Hunab-Kú, the central light of the galaxy.

It takes 25,625 years for our solar system to make one cycle on this ellipse. One complete cycle is called a galactic day. The cycle is divided into two halves similar to our day and night. The half closest to the central light, is our solar system's 'day' and the half furthest away is its 'night'. Each day and each night lasts 12,800 years. Which is to say, the central galaxy is the Sun for our entire solar system. The Mayans discovered that every grand cycle has its minor cycles, that carry the same characteristics.

One galactic day of 25,625 years is divided into five cycles of 5,125 years. The first cycle is the galactic morning. When our solar system is just coming out of the darkness to enter the light. The second cycle is the mid-day. When our solar system is closest to the central light. The third cycle is the afternoon. When our solar system begins to come out of the light. The fourth cycle is the late-night. When our solar system has entered its furthest cycle from the central light. And the fifth and last cycle is night before dawn. When are solar system is in its last cycle of darkness before starting again. This is the cycle we are currently coming out of.

The Mayan prophecy tells us that in 1999, our solar system began to leave the end of the fifth cycle which started in 3113 B.C. and that we find ourselves in the morning of our galactic day, exiting darkness and on the verge of being in plain day of our central galaxy in 2012. They say that at the beginning and end of these cycles, which is to say, every 5,125 years, the central sun or light of the galaxy emits a ray of light so intense and so brilliant that it illuminates the entire universe. It is from this burst of light that all of the Suns and planets sync.

The Mayans compare this burst to the pulse of the universe, beating once every 5,125 years. It is these pulses that mark the end of one cycle and the beginning of the next. Each pulse lasting 20 years, a Katún. So we come back to what they call 'The Time of No Time'. It is an evolutionary period, short but intense, inside the grand cycles where great changes take place to thrust us into a new age of evolution as individuals and as mankind. As individuals we will have to make decisions that will affect us all. If we continue on this negative path of hate, an eye for an eye, destruction of nature, of fear and egoism, we will enter straight into the time of destruction and chaos, and we will disappear as the dominant race of this planet. If we become conscious and realize that we all form part of a great organism, and that we should respect one another and be grateful to our planet, then we will move directly into positive growth, our Golden Age.

Our planet, the Sun and the Galaxy are awaiting our decision. It is up to us what will happen in this time of change. Whether we go through a time of suffering and destruction or we find ourselves united in one positive consciousness moving closer to our next stage. Please notice the events of our planet as evidence that the Mayan prophecies are worth listening to and learning from. Share this information and help us all move toward a better future, where we can thrive in a new era of positivity. It has never been so important.

Winona's house had an electrical fire and the house burnt to the ground. No one was hurt. While the house and its contents are gone, the blessing is that all five kids and three grandchildren are safe., She really needs our support. Winona bought her house about 20 years ago and it was filled with art, books, music, photos and other collectibles that reflected her story and the story of her family.

Gone is Winona's amazing collection of posters and art from decades past. She would appreciate any no-nukes, safe energy, anti-colonial, no-GMO and Native activist art books.

Lastly, Winona and the kids are renting an apartment in Detroit Lakes and will be staying there over the winter while envisioning building a new home. Right now, the best shipping address is: White Earth Land Recovery/Honor the Earth office up in Callaway: Winona LaDuke White Earth Land Recovery Project 607 Main Avenue, Callaway, MN 56521

As President-elect Barack Obama appoints a new team of cabinet members and fills other key federal work posts, he's named six Native people to his transition team - half of them assigned to assist in Interior Department policy, budget and personnel changes. "We're lucky to have such stellar representatives with people with whom Indian Country has really good relationships, " said Jacqueline Johnson-Pata, executive director of the National Congress of American Indians, a nonprofit organization that represents more than 250 tribes. So far, Mary Smith, Mary McNeil and Yvette Robideaux have been assigned to work on justice, agriculture and health issues, while three current and former attorneys with the Native American Rights Fund - John Echohawk, Keith Harper and Robert Anderson - will advise Obama on changes proposed within the Interior Department.

As advisers to the Interior transition team, the Indian law experts could inspire a significant transformation within the department's Indian trust fund system, an organizational debacle that has been subject to 12 years of litigation during the Cobell vs. Kempthorne suit. "This is our last big chance to get a lot of things done," said Elouise Cobell, the lead plaintiff from Montana's Blackfeet Nation in the class action lawsuit. "It's like a broken record every time we have a hearing. Nothing really happens. Maybe if we get the right people in these positions, we can all work together: the tribes, Congress and the administration." The Native American Rights Fund, a tribal justice and legal rights organization based in Boulder, Colo., has helped represent a half- million Native landowners in the Cobell suit. Landowners claim Interior Department agency officials - including the Office of Special Trustee, Bureau of Land Management, Minerals Management Service and Bureau of Indian Affairs - have mismanaged billions of dollars of their income earned from sales of timber, oil and gas, and grazing leases. Echohawk, NARF's executive director of more than 30 years, also served as a transition adviser for former President Bill Clinton. Harper was the lead NARF attorney in the Cobell case. He remains the only Native representative assigned to the highest ranks of the Obama transition, where he has been named a "team lead"

for the Interior Department. Harper also served as the Native policy adviser during the Obama campaign. He currently heads up Native affairs for the Washington, D.C., law firm Kilpatrick Stockton. He was named as one of the 50 "Most Influential Minority Lawyers in America" by the 2008 National Law Journal. And he is a lead attorney in the Cobell suit. Rounding out the Interior advisers to the Obama transition team, Anderson worked 12 years as a senior staff attorney for NARF, where he litigated state, tribal and federal jurisdiction cases, including water, hunting and fishing rights cases. Transition team updates are being made at www.change.gov.

"President-elect Obama has set a high bar for the transition team to execute the most efficient, organized and transparent transfer of power in American history," said John Podesta, co-chairman of the presidential transition team, in a news release. "First, we adopted the strictest ethics guidelines ever applied to any transition team. President-elect Obama pledged to change the way Washington works, and that begins with shifting influence away from special interests and restoring it to the everyday Americans who are passionate about fixing the problems facing our country." Job seekers are being encouraged to submit their resumes, and many Native people have already done so. "The team expands constantly as they look for gaps and bring in other people, said Johnson-Pata. "Every time I look at the list, I see new names on it. We're lucky. We have several Native Americans in a variety of different places."

FCC Chairman's Seat Up for Grabs
Julius Genachowski, Larry Strickling among handful of contenders to succeed oft-embattled FCC Chairman Kevin Martin

Major departmental shifts are coming left and right in Washington, but one change is of primary interest to broadcasters: the new chairmanship of the FCC. A handful of contenders have emerged to succeed oft-embattled Chairman Kevin Martin, whose exit is likely by early January. Among those atop the list are a pair of Barack Obama insiders (Julius Genachowski and Larry Strickling) and two more figures with FCC experience (Don Gips and Blair Levin). Martin has not said when he will depart, and he could technically remain on as a commissioner after a new chairman— an interim chairman at first—is named after President-elect Obama takes the oath Jan. 20.

While being non-committal, Martin joked a couple of weeks ago that possible career moves included being a wardrobe consultant for Janet Jackson and installing DTV-to-analog converter boxes. Then there was the crack about becoming a NASCAR driver. The FCC sponsored DTV Transition race car crashed in two of the three races that the commission sponsored. Now, however, Washington has shifted its focus to who will sit behind the wheel of the FCC itself. Whoever gets the seat, look for that person to put a premium on Internet access, broadband rollout and no more loosening of media ownership rules. Genachowski, an Obama campaign adviser and friend of the president-elect from Harvard days, is also in line for the new technology czar post Obama plans to create. He was a top staffer to former FCC Chairman Reed Hundt, who is close to the Obama team. Hundt served as a debate surrogate on telecom policy during the campaign, and his son also worked for Obama.

In addition, Genachowski has Internet chops, having both launched an Internet startup and worked for Barry Diller's IAG Interactive collection of Websites. Genachowski would be a natural choice since he helped draft the Obama campaign's tech policy plan, which some have boiled down to “open government, open networks, open markets,” very likely in that order. But the Obama campaign is expected to invest the tech czar job with real power, which is why Genachowski may opt for that role instead. Gips is another strong candidate for FCC chairman, according to several FCCwatchers in Washington. He is co-chair of the general agency review process and is a one-time chief of the FCC's International bureau, where he helped oversee spectrum policy. HUNDT'S PROTÉGÉ Joining them in the pool of possible candidates is Levin, another Reed Hundt protégé.

His odds went up two weeks ago when he, along with Genachowski, was named a team leader on a tech policy working group charged with making policy recommendations for the Obama administration. “I think it's his if he wants it,” said one veteran broadcast lobbyist, who added he thought Levin would make a great chairman. “He knows his stuff.” And Strickling, another Obama campaign adviser, also helped draft his tech policy plan. He was formerly an FCC bureau chief under Chairman Bill Kennard—yet another Obama media policy adviser. At least one veteran observer of the comings and goings at the FCC, however, FCC Chairman's Seat Up for Grabs Julius Genachowski, Larry Strickling among handful of contenders to succeed oft-embattled FCC Chairman Kevin Martin points out that Obama may instead take this opportunity to appoint a minority to the post. One name being floated is Danny Sepulveda, an Hispanic Obama adviser who used to counsel Commerce Committee member Sen. Barbara Boxer on telecom and media issues. Another Hispanic Obama backer is Henry Rivera, an experienced communications attorney and former FCC commissioner. Rivera was thought to be in line for the tech policy czar post or perhaps the FCC chairmanship, but he may be swept up in the Obama campaign's lobbying crackdown. Rivera has had businesses before the commission in the past couple of years and therefore may not pass muster with the Obama team's guidelines about who can be named to various agency positions. This has created something of an issue in Washington. Some have complained that the prohibition on folks who have advocated for clients before the commission disqualifies some candidates with the most experience. But Obama advisers have said they will take that risk to remain true to their code.

Karen Kornbluth, policy director for Obama, has also been floated as a possible name. She is former director of legal and intergovernmental affairs at the FCC and also worked on the Senate Commerce Committee staff of Sen. John Kerry, an early backer of the President elect. The Commerce Committee has oversight of the FCC. The Obama camp is said to want to put academics in high government places, according to one former top FCC official, which would argue for the two professors the team named to vet the FCC as part of the transition process. They are Susan Crawford, a law professor at the University of Michigan and former partner at D.C. communications firm Wilmer, Cutler Pickering (WilmerHale); and Kevin Werbach, an assistant professor of legal studies and business ethics at The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania.

As we know, has the face of Global Business changed it’s directions heavily over the past 5 years, more and more Companies are finding their way to reaching into what indigenous cultures understood all along, Green Companies and Eco Sustainable ventures are setting the benchmarks for global growth. Art, Media, Culture, and Financial aspects of all relative business ethics are slowly merging into a oneness, finally realizing that as a Global Community we can succeed, by re-creating means to cherish individual beliefs and ethnic diversities, accepting these models into everyday practices streamlines the future of how business will be done, and how economies, and educational values will grow paying it forward. More and more are understanding this undeniable flow of emerging consciousness, so with trendsetters such as Gaia Global Marketing, Cultural Fusion ( a partner to Gaia Global Marketing ) , and Origin TV, setting new trends and goals as to positively fueling the courses, that had been set, and synchronizing a new structure of fabrication to allow for company growth and expansion.

Gaia Global Marketing was birthed by the mind of a woman that always allowed for complete freedom of existing within her life, coming from a multi cultural family and always having lived in multi cultural settings she found it easy, normal as a fact to see that transcending the status quo is a matter of simple choice. Cherrie Richardson Collazo, was born in the mid 60’s to a Native American father stationed in Germany and German mother, in post war Germany…this background shaped her existence into the type of person that would always openly embrace people from all walks of life, and later brought her to adopt three African American children. Cherrie’s belief that cultural boundaries are only an extension of different thought patterns, eventually brought her to a point where she wanted to not only continue to actively change but shape the world she is living in…out of this want Gaia Global Marketing was born, a unique blend of fused marketing and public relation skills, that Cherrie incorporates in ways that leave no room for guessing, as a New Paradigm had been set in motion.

Gaia Global Marketing does it’s name justice as Gaia means Earth and Cherries spiritual linage is that of her Native American root, understanding that Earth is the only true life giver in Global existence, and it’s inhabitants all need the same things to flourish. This model was quickly made part of Gaia Global Marketing as it’s fundamental root, and it’s main goal is to bring about the shifts needed to co-create abundance for those that are lacking…lacking in all aspects of life.

Gaia Global Marketing’s main objective is to show that Independent Collaborations can fuel a more precise and meaningful journey to a certain goal. Within this resonance has Gaia Global Marketing attrac ted partners & clients such as Red Feather Woman the 2006 Native American Music Award Winner, Antonia B.Silver Jewelry Designer to Stars such as Jennifer Lopez & Britney Spears, RJ Joseph Native American Film Producer and Director and Pony Vigil to name a few. Gaia Global Marketing has also benchmarked Collaborations with the likes such as Cultural Fusion and it’s Owner Yvette Dubel, and of course Indian Voices working in close friendship with the Editor Rose Davis.

Cherrie explains that by exchanging positive energy within business expertise, companies, partners and their project can find greater exposure, a higher sense of trust worthiness and a more amiable approach to reach results overall, changing the direction of conventional business measures! When we asked Cherrie where she feels the next turn will lead her, she simply said…to the Origins of things meaning Origin TV which will put a whole new meaning on how people will express “Original” especially those that are Native American ( as they are the Original people of this Country or all Indigenous people for that matter ) it will be the platform that will birth opportunity upon opportunity for not only Indian Country, but for all that are living in less desirable circumstances, it will accumulate necessary funding to be put back into poor communities, eventually worldwide but definitely starting here at home first!

Cherrie ended her conversation by stating that “it is my very personal dream to continue to form strong methods of unconditional understanding and love for children and elders, within this to incorporate means to educate the importance of taking care of each other, uplifting each other and of creating fair and equal means whenever…wherever and however we can. There are but few strong virtues, one that is true to be left on all of us…is an old Sioux Proverb… We Will Be Remembered By The Tracks That We Leave… To learn more about Cherrie Richardson Collazo her work, vision and partnerships please visit: www.gaiaglobalmarketing.com

It is a lot of hard work, and sometimes uncomfortable situations, bad food, illness, noisy hotels, crowded airports, and sometimes current events that one has no control over. All of these has to be overcome in order for the famous cliché “the show must go on” to do so. Putting all the difficulties aside, when the curtain goes up and the stories begin, I transform from Rose Red Elk and become Red Feather Woman, the storyteller/ singer songwriter. Afterward, when I greet my audience and answer questions or just get to know as much as I can in the short period I have, I realize we have connected through our spirits. They have listened with their minds and hearts, awakening to more than just a story. I am reminded that everyone is connected, everyone has a story and everyone that has come to visit me, loves to listen to a storyteller. They are reminded of their own grandmothers, and grandfathers, aunts, uncles, those who have touched their earth walk in some significant way through the stories they tell of the details of their lives.

It is true even in the days of my ancestors, we had no written word and used symbols and the oral art of storytelling was used to communicate. We used the stories to teach lessons and to learn. Through the art of storytelling, we can hear and use our imaginations to bring the lesson to life. Sometimes I am gifted with the opportunity to visit tribal schools or schools that have a significant population of Native Americans. While I’m on stage I can only feel the energy in the air as I transport visually to the place the story is taking place. I don’t always see the look in someone eyes as I tell the story. My husband pointed out to me on a particular occasion where the audience was over half Native children. He noticed how they sat up with pride as I came on stage, and how they appeared to have a wonderful sense of identity of being Native. I am only a tool. It is important to me as a Native American storyteller, to help maintain the oral art of storytelling. We live in a fast pace, high tech society that is rapidly losing site of the most important Keeping the Storyteller Within part of being on this earth, we have to touch each other in spiritual ways. And one of those spiritual ways is telling stories. All people must do this in order to pass down the best part of ourselves to one another.

The essence of live storytelling is remarkable. I’m not speaking of myself necessarily. We all tell stories, whether being in a large stage, or simply in a car or on a walk or taking the time with our children, even if they are grown. It doesn’t matter who or how old. We are never too old to learn from each other. We are still making history, and developing stories of our people. These are new stories for future generations. But, it is important to bring back the old stories as well. We can learn our old stories and pass them on, we must. I trust if you seek, you will find. I would ask that this holiday season, lets remind ourselves as we gather with relatives, friends and loved ones, to ask questions about the family. Find the stories from the elderly before they pass on to the other side. Let us all become aware of the storyteller within to continue our histories.
Blessings to you all Red Feather Woman www.redfeatherwoman.com

The San Diego tribal community came together on November 15th for a traditional American Thanksgiving Day feast in Southern California...

If there is a term we Indian people are familiar with in the urban setting it is Relocation. Sometimes a move is a good thing. For some years that last place had been too crowded for the Indian communities needs. The parking situation is vastly improved, too. The Barrio Station Auditorium 2175 Newton Ave, 92113, with reservations, can accommodate a larger number of happy faces to our community events. We hear that 2008 is the year for change. What has not changed is the need to bring the Indian community together, in a safe setting. To provide an opportunity for them to enjoy the time together with family and friends. Indian food, songs by Spiritual Storm,

Vicki Gambala estimated over 500 people received traditional American Thanksgiving Day meals during the event. Vickie said the event has ran for some 15 years now and has become a popular holiday tradition for many local San Diego County community members in Indian country.

The Native American group Spiritual Storm provided traditional Indian songs, including singing, flute, drum, and gourd rattle.

Sponsors provided meat for the feast, many families provided pot luck and there was plenty of food for everyone. Here, volunteers are pictured preparing the feast.

games and gifts some might say it cannot get better than this. But a chance to hear our elders and smile at the Indian children having good fun in the Children’s
corner will add to the warm glow that that turkey and dressing full feeling we
bring away from the gathering. Each year many groups and organizations
step up to make it happen. It still requires a driving force to see it through to the success that each year has produced. SPECIAL THANKS This year we need to recognize Juan Castellanos of the Indian Human Resource Center and his staff for their constant attention to detail and responsible diplomacy. Additionally, we appreciate the financial support of: the Barona Band of Mission Indians, Rincon
Luiseno Band of Indians, Southern California American Indian Resource Center-SCAIR, Tonkawa Seniors Council, Citizen Potawatomi Nation and the San Diego American Indian Warriors Association-AIWA. We hope to see you at the next
Traditional; Winter Gathering Saturday December 13, 2008 from 2pm to 4pm.
It will be at the same ‘new’ place Barrio Station.

Jerry Kien, Diné, hosted a Peace and Dignity Journeys table with two of his young female colleagues. Left is Sylvia Romo-Lara. Sylvia and her husband, Joe, are the San Diego area coordinators for P&DJ 2008. Right is Patty Mejorado. Patty also contributed a lot of time and effort and ran as well.

Organizers mingled with the guests and kept their fingers on the heartbeat and health of the local San Diego County Indian community.

VOLUNTEERS & DONATIONS NEEDED
The Holiday gathering committee can always use more financial support, wrapped gifts, prizes for games and warm bodies to help setting up, serving and
cleaning up. Volunteer, you will feel good about it!

The San Diego Tribal TANF programs help support Native American families
and actively work to instill a sense of belonging to a stable Indian community
within urban Indians by providing drug and alcohol-free family events and social
services for Indian families. The event was sponsored by Southern California Tribal Chairmen's Association SCTCA Urban Tribal TANF Program.

There is much respect for Preston Arrow-Weed from the Kumeyaay people. I know with Santa Ysabel he and his grandson have always attended our Traditional Gatherings and have shared stories and songs with us. I know they have done the same for the neighboring Tribes. Imperial County sheriff's officials are investigating the death. The body was found early Wednesday morning next to railroad tracks near Yuma.

According to Charles Lucas, supervising deputy coroner with the Imperial County Sheriff's Office, the cause of the death is pending an autopsy, but the body has been identified as 21-year-old Lewis Jefferson of Bard. "Preliminary information indicates he was struck by a train. The incident is still under investigation," Lucas said.

Quechan elder Preston Arrow-Weed stated that his grandson, was a young traditional singer and aspiring spiritual leader. Arrow-Weed said that his grandson, who went by his traditional name "Mucaw," had filed to run for a seat on the tribal council in the upcoming election. Lucas said the the incident happened at about 4:30 a.m. on the Quechan Reservation next to the tracks by the old agriculture inspection station, near the Ocean-to-Ocean Bridge.

Jefferson was known in the Quechan Tribe for his traditional singing, as well as for taking part in long walks supporting various issues. He walked from here to Gila Bend in support of the Peace and Dignity Project, according to Arrow-Weed. More recently Jefferson made local headlines for walking from Flagstaff to Washington, D.C., with The Longest Walk 2. Arrow-Weed said Jefferson participated to bring attention to preservation of American Indian sacred sites.

In loving memory of Prysma Mejia, age 15, who died November 29th, 2008 at 12:04 p.m. when the car she was riding in lost control on a curve. The driver Claudia Cueva, age 22, also died at the scene of the accident. Prysma’s brother Ray, age 15 survived the accident but lost a leg. This was a great loss. Prysma Mejia was a great person and friend. She was a beautiful, loud, proud, wonderful and funny young lady! She had a lot going for her, now all we have is love for her and her family. She is in a great place watching over friends and family. We love you Prysma!

Thanksgiving the “Cortez”Way
U.S. Ignores Western Shoshone Objections – Barrick Gold Readies Itself to Carve up Mount Tenabo Spiritual Area

November 20, 2008 Reno and Crescent Valley, NV Last week, after years of determined opposition from Western Shoshone, the U.S. Department of Interior, through its Bureau of Land Management (BLM), approved one of the largest open pit cyanide heap leach gold mines in the United States on the flank of Mount Tenabo – an area well-known for its spiritual and cultural importance to the Western Shoshone. The area is home to local Shoshone creation stories, spirit life, medicinal, food and ceremonial plants and items and continues to be used to this day by Shoshone for spiritual and cultural practices. Over the years, tens of thousands of individuals and organizations from across the United States and around the world have joined with the Shoshone and voiced their opposition to this mine. The mine has been referred to as one of the most opposed mines in the world and indeed the level of public opposition is unprecedented for the BLM.

With the threat of mine construction beginning as early as this week, the South Fork Band Council of Western Shoshone, the Timbisha Shoshone Tribe, the Western Shoshone Defense Project, and Great Basin Resource Watch, today filed a complaint in the Reno Federal District Court seeking declaratory and injunctive relief to stop the mine. Barrick Gold Corporation, the world’s largest gold mining company, headquartered in Toronto, Canada, plans to construct and operate the mine, known as the Cortez Hills Expansion Project.

The Project area is located entirely within the territory of the Western Shoshone Nation, recognized in the 1863 Treaty of Ruby Valley. The Mine would blast and excavate a new massive open pit on Mount Tenabo over 900 acres in size, with a depth of over 2,000 feet. It would include several new waste disposal and processing facilities (including a cyanide heap-leaching facility), consisting of approximately 1,577 million tons of waste rock, 53 million tons of tailings material, and 112 million tons of spent heap leach material.

The Mine would include an extensive groundwater pumping system to dewater Mount Tenabo (in order to keep the open pit and mine workings dry during mining) and associated water pipelines that will transport the pumped water away from Mount Tenabo. In total, the mine would permanently destroy approximately 6,800 acres land on and around Mount Tenabo, over 90% of which is classified as federal “public” land. “How are we, as a nation, showing our values, if we allow a transnational corporation to destroy this ‘church’ for all time, just to get 10 years worth of gold.” Says Larson Bill, Vice- Chairman of the South Fork Band Council. “There are dozens of active gold mines on Western Shoshone lands already, there is no need for this one, which is clearly immoral and irresponsible.

The public should be aware that Nevada is not a waste land, but is the home of ranchers, sportsmen, fishermen and homesteaders that have enjoyed the lands alongside the Shoshone people for generations. We have been clear in our opposition to this mine and while Barrick tries to cloud the real issues with gifts and money, we continue to oppose this project – they have not bought our people, the traditions nor the lands of the Shoshone.” he adds. The proposed mine area has been found by the BLM, in repeated ethnographic studies, as being of extreme spiritual and cultural importance to the Western Shoshone.

One report says: “Mt. Tenabo is … considered a traditional locus of power and source of life, and figures in creation stories and world renewal. As the tallest mountain in the area – the most likely to capture snow and generate water to grow piñon and nourish life – it is literally a life-giver. Water is to earth what blood is to the body, and these subterranean waterways are likened to the earth’s arteries and veins.” Carrie Dann, a world renowned Western Shoshone elder, and recipient of the Right Livelihood Award (known as the “alternative Nobel Peace Prize”) has been among those to lead the fight to protect Mount Tenabo from mining for over 15 years.

“Mount Tenabo should be left alone – no further disturbance. This mine will drain the water from Mount Tenabo. They will be sucking the water out of the mountain forever. The destruction of the water is like the destruction of the blood of the earth; you are destroying life of the earth and the people and wildlife that depend on it. Dewatering is taking the life of future generations. Water is sacred, all life depends on it,” says Carrie Dann.

“Next week we celebrate Thanksgiving - The question that the courts and the people of this country need to ask themselves is will we continue to tolerate these violations against the First Peoples of this land or will we finally turn the tide of injustice and protect these sacred areas?” Says Julie Cavanaugh-Bill, Consultant to the Western Shoshone Defense Project. “None of us are opposed to mining, if it is done responsibly, however this project is as irresponsible as it gets. The BLM has a legal responsibility to protect the air, water, and ecological values of the area as well as the religious freedom of Western Shoshone, and to fully analyze the impacts of a proposed project.

In each case, this mine would clearly violate the law.” Says Dan Randolph, Executive Director of Great Basin Resource Watch. “This is an example of how the Bush Administration is rushing to protect their corporate friends in their last few months in power. The BLM denied requests to extend the comment period on the Environmental Impact Statement not only from us, but also from several Western Shoshone tribal governments. Therefore, we are forced to now turn to the courts to stop this project. We know that Barrick will begin work on the mine as soon as they can, to cause enough harm in an attempt to make the religious rights arguments moot, and the BLM and Bush Administration appear to be more than willing to help them in every way possible.” The plaintiffs are being represented in court by Roger Flynn of the nonprofit legal firm, the Western Mining Action Project, which specializes in mining, public land, and environmental law.

For more information on the Cortez Hills Project, Mount Tenabo, and the legal challenge go to www.gbrw.org and www.wsdp.org

Community Announcements

Applications for Home Repairs Now Being Accepted For Our 2009 Home Renovation Program Deadline extended to Dec. 10, 2008

WHO: Applications are now being accepted from low-income families, who own their own home and need assistance with home repairs.

WHAT: Rebuilding Together San Diego, is a non-profit and affiliate of the largest national volunteer home rehabilitation and affordable housing preservationist organization in America. This grassroots non-profit aids the elderly, disabled and low-income families throughout San Diego who own and live in their own home, but because of age, physical limitation and low and/or fixed incomes, are not able to address their housing repairs themselves. All work is performed at no cost to the recipients accepted into our program. Community non-profit facilities struggling between program costs and deferred maintenance are also welcome to apply. Now in our 14th year we have completed over 350 projects vesting more than $8 million dollars in market value into the San Diego community.

HOW: Volunteers team together with sponsors, who join forces to renovate homes in communities in and around San Diego, performs such tasks as interior and exterior painting, general clean-up, landscaping, plumbing, carpentry and electrical repairs that benefit qualified recipients. Applications and income guidelines can be found on our website at: www.rebuildingtogethersd.org or by calling (619) 231-7873 If you or someone you know could benefit from our home renovation, neighborhood revitalization program, please contact us immediately.

Please note that an application does not guarantee acceptance into our program. Get Involved! There are sponsorship, volunteer (general and skilled tradesmen), in-kind material donation and financial tax deductible contribution opportunities available.

Call: Pamela Thorsch, Executive Director at (619) 231-7873 or e-mail: rtsd(at)rebuildingtogethersd.org for more information. _________________________________

OPPORTUNITIES is compiled by the Harvard University Native American Program and includes internship, scholarship, fellowship, grant, and career opportunities as well as announcements for conferences, workshops and symposia. The Harvard University Native American Program provides "Opportunities" as a free information service and is not affiliated with or responsible for any non- Harvard events, programs, or organizations listed. If you would like to include a listing for distribution, e-mail the information (2 paragraphs ONLY) to hunap(at)harvard.edu , subject heading "Opportunities Announcement". Microsoft Word attachment ONLY accepted (nongraphics attachments). Your listing should consist of a brief description of the position or event and sources to contact for further details and application instructions.

TO: Harvard University Native American Program 14 Story St, 4th Floor, Suite 400 Cambridge, MA 02138 617-495-4923/FAX: 617-496-3312 Email: hunap(at)harvard.edu WEB: http://ksg.harvard.edu/hunap _________________________________

“Bringing our communities together through Culture.” Traditional Kumeyaay Singing and Dancing. Tuesday, December 16th, 2008 at 5:00 pm at the Barona Community Center Gymnasium.

Special guest: Ples Felix of the Tariq Khamisa Foundation (TKF) Thursday, Jan 15, 2009 at 7pm. Come hear a powerful presentation by Ples Felix about youth violence, and how TKF is “breaking the cycle of youth violence by empowering kids, saving lives, and teaching peace.” TKF was founded by Azim Khamisa to "stop kids from killing kids " after the 1995 shooting death of his 20-year-old son Tariq by a 14- year-old gang member, Tony Hicks. Seeing victims on both sides of the gun, Azim reached out in forgiveness to the grandfather and guardian of Tony Hicks, Ples Felix.

Over the last 13 years, TKF has been providing its powerful and proven school-based violence prevention education programs to inspire and empower students to say "no" to gangs, guns and violence. They teach about the realities of gangs, violence, revenge, and the importance of becoming “peacemakers”. “Homicide is the leading cause of death in California for youth ages 15-19” First Unitarian Universalist Church of San Diego 4190 Front St, Hillcrest, San Diego (opposite UCSD Medical Center) donation requested Sponsor:

The Peace and Democracy Action Group of the First UU Church.
For more information call 858-459-4650 · www.tkf.org

March 12, 2009. Deadline for ADs is January 30, 2009. We hope you will join us to enjoy some great fun and Entertainment. For underwriter, sponsorship & table reservations contact:

Rachael Ortiz, Executive Director - Barrio Station 2175 Newton Ave. SD, CA 92113 (619) 238-0314

Cultural Workshops offered at the San Diego American Indian Health Center,
corner of 1st and Maple Sts. in San Diego , Tuesdays, 2-4pm and 6:30-8:30pm . The workshops are facilitated by Charley Muscogee / Pottawatomi) and Sparrow (Tsalagi) Narcomey. Both have worked within the Native community for 20 years promoting Wellbriety. For the past 3 years community members have been meeting at SDAIHC taking part in cultural classes supportive of traditional lifestyles.

Workshops include Medicine Wheel Philosophy, talking circles, making gourd rattles, Medicine pouches, dream catchers and various types of beading, including loom work and rosettes, peyote stitch, etc. Currently we are making beautiful dance shawls. At the end of each 12 week session we have a community pot-luck for those that have attended and finish the night with songs and drumming. You can join in the workshops at any time. Classes are offered at no cost. Children 11 years old and over may attend with parent. For info: please call Sparrow at 760-803-1165 or e-mail healingthecircle(at)yahoo.com

The Odyssey Masters 8th Annual Dinner outdid itself at its black-tie event at the BELLAGIO. The Gala presented culinary excellence from 10 of Las Vegas' most prized chefs along with incomparable wines. Guests enjoyed world-class art, and entertainment by Grammy award-winner and lead singer of Kool & The Gang, Skip Martin and his band. Celebrity host, John Daly served as Master of Ceremonies A Silent Auction display was beautifully fashioned by Sandy Peltyn and her team. An original art piece created by Odyssey's 2008 Artist-In-Residence, Barbara Reynolds was part of the Live Auction. Other Live Auctions were for Chef teams to create a five-course gourmet dinner for 10 guests in the home of the auction winner.

Proceeds from the Silent and Live Auction benefit the Odyssey Foundation Scholarship program for Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts Las Vegas and The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

Four distinguished guests of honor who have contributed significantly to our community were: Brad Friedmutter, Greg and Dana Lee, Roger Peltyn (in memorium).

I am so honored to have known Roger Peltyn whose profound contributions embellish the heart and soul of Las Vegas. Roger was born in Brooklyn, New York to a father who was a prominent musician and orchestra leader for famed actress and singer Judy Garland. However, Roger aspired to a different form of art, earning a degree in civil and structural engineering from Penn State University. In 1980 Roger moved to Las Vegas and became president of Martin and Peltyn Structural Engineering. His first project was the expansion of the Golden Nugget. Excelling in his craft, combined with a dynamic and charismatic persona, his company was responsible for participating in the building of a number of hotels including: The Mirage, Bellagio, Caesars Palace, The Venetian, Paris Las Vegas and Wynn Resort, as well as major office buildings, convention centers, entertainment complexes and Elementary and High Schools. Roger served on the UNLV President's Council, the Nevada Development Authority, the Clark County Public Education Foundation, the Desert Research Institute, Opportunity Village and many other charities.

Roger met his wife of 33 years Sandy Colon in New York when he was employed by an engineering firm. Sandy was under contract to the Hilton Hotel chain performing as the star of a musical revue. Sandy Colon Peltyn who worked along with Roger has continued in the engineering field of DESIMONE Consulting Engineers. Roger and Sandy's prodigious contributions to community services are too numerous to mention and Sandy continues their legendary work Sandy and their son RJ Peltyn accepted the distinguished SKYLINE MASTER AWARD to Roger Peltyn. (in memoriam).

Brad Friedmutter received the SKYLINE MASTER AWARD. He too was born in New York. Brad is the founder and president of The Friedmutter group, an architecture and interior design firm specializing in Casino Resorts. His clients include: Station Casinos, Harrah's Entertainment, Cosmopolitan Borrowers LLC. Foxwood's Resort and International clients in United Arab Emirates, Australia, Europe, Asia and New Zealand. Brad has personally assembled one of the most dynamic and experienced teams of design professionals in the industry. A winner of numerous industry awards, Brad Friedmutter recently received the 2008 Hospitality Industry Network (HOSPY) Lifetime Achievement Award. Many local and national philanthropic and charitable organizations benefit from the significant contributions of Brad Friedmutter.

The BENEVOLENCE MASTERS AWARD was awarded to Dana & Gregory Lee. Gregory is the president of Eureka Casinos, a family-owned company in Las Vegas and Mesquite. Dana is a past trustee of The Meadows School and a former board member of the Nevada Ballet Theatre. Dana and Gregory were honored for their philanthropic work and say their aim is to give back in gratitude for what they have been given.

A beautiful gold booklet enclosed the menu. As the unusual five-course dinner was served, large screens showed the Chefs preparing their own special course. Each course was paired with exceptional wines.

First course: Salmon & Lobster Rillette Toasted Baguette - Paired with Sartori Pinot Grigio Prepared by Chef Matt Thompson, Mon Ami Gabi and Chef Tina Rodus, Le Cordon Bleu

Second Course: Moroccan Spiced Albacore tuna, Preserved Lemon, Black Olives and Cous Cous - Paired with Talley Oliver's Vineyard Chardonnay, Talley Vineyards Arroyo Grand CA 2000 -Prepared by Chef Tim Beres, Joe's Stone Crab and Chef Ryan Carson, Le Cordon Bleu

Third Course: Five Spiced Roasted Pork Belly and Chicken Potsticker, Pan Fried Dumpling, Sweet and Sour Sliced Belly with Hoisin Sauce - Paired with Selene Chesler Cabernet Franc Selene Wines, Napa Valley 2003 - Prepared by Chef Patrick Lee, Noodles and Chef Chanh Boupha, Le Cordon Bleu

Entrée: Braised Prime Short Rib Favo Bean, Wild Mushrooms, Sweet Potato Puree, Red Wine Butter - Paired with Renteria Brenda's Cabernet Stag's Leap District, Renteria Vineyards Napa Valley 2000 - Prepared by Chef Edmund Wong, Bellagio and James McParlanc, Le Cordon Bleu

Dessert: Chocolate Pudding, Red Velvet Cake, Beet Chips Dentelle, Cocoa Nib Ice Cream - Paired with R.L. Buller Rare Calliope Tokay, Australia, Non Vintage.
After dinner, guests danced the night away to the great music of Skip Martin and his band.

KENA ADAMS
Citizen Journalist...
shaping the future
of community news and information.

LeRoy Spotted Eagle with dancer

5th Annual Inter Tribal Veteran’s Pow Wow

November 14th, 15th, and 16th kicked off the 5th Annual Inter Tribal Pow Wow. The weather was mild and the smell of Indian Tacos filled the air.
Frank Bernard and Herb McCabe have worked relentlessly in making sure this Pow Wow happens each year. Hualapai Color Guard Veterans of Peach Springs Arizona led our Grand Entry Friday evening. Saturday was quite a special day for the veterans as they were presented the E2Medal of Valor.” David Rivers, the first Native American to pass the State Bar, presented our veterans with this medal in great pride. Head judge, Candice Herrera-Dineh certainly had her hands full in choosing the best dancers. The Pow Wow was a great success again this year with honor given to some of our greatest hero’s, our soldiers. For more information go to www.nvnacs.com or call 702.369.8642

Budget Cuts and the Clark County School District

November 18th 2008, the Clark County School District Board of Trustee’s
set up a town hall meeting at Western High School to discuss the current budget crisis facing our local schools. A proposed $32 million within administration which would cut up to 250 positions, $22 million from “fund balance” and $9 million district wide which would jeopardize teachers and school employee’s retirement.

The toughest by far will be the “school based” cut, $57 million. As voiced by a concerned parent, “Why didn’t you (school board trustees) prepare for this? The gaming capitol of the world and we cannot even fund our schools?” Chief Financial Officer Jeff Weiler had a look of dismay as he urged all resident’s to talk to their local and state representatives about this serious
situation.

The Clark County School District has been audited 50 times in the last five years and no wrong doing has been proven. The funds are just limited, which in turn limits the growth of our students. Per capita Nevada receives the least amount of funding per student; $6,000 compared to Florida which receives more than $12,000. Other states usually get no less than $10,000 per student, yet we still have more than a 30% drop - out rate nationwide. Not only did the public get the chance to speak but also to vote. In the back of the gymnasium were boxes where parents, students and residents could vote on what they want to keep or cut for 2009.

The bottom line is if we want changes as residents we need to make the people that we put in office understand that we are not taking this and we are wiling to stand up and fight for the future of our children. Please attend these meetings and contact your local and state representatives by mail, telephone, e-mail and any other correspondence possible. No decision on what will be cut has been made at this time recommendations will be presented to the board in December.

Moapa Band of Paiutes Water and Land Blessing

Map to Moapa Travel Plaza

Friday November 21st Juanita Kinlichimie, Moapa Band of Paiutes Elder, blessed the land and water at the Moapa Travel Plaza Casino located on the Moapa Indian Reservation. A celebration and blessing was definitely in order considering the Moapa Band of Paiutes have been waiting over 30 years for running water. No longer will the Moapa Band of Paiutes have to truck water to their reservation.

The Paiute Travel Plaza was no more than an 8’ by 10’ fireworks stand when it started as explained by Tribal Business Council Chairman, Phil Swain. From the outside looking in you would never have imagined. A casino, beautiful gift shop, smoke shop, café and gas station are just a few of the amenities the Moapa Travel Plaza and Casino offer. Fireworks are the travel plaza’s specialty. Traditionally many Las Vegas residents frequent this travel plaza each July for some of the best fireworks in Nevada.

Ward 5 Chamber Office Burns Due to Alleged Bomb

Cleaning up after fire

Twin Lakes Shopping Center located at the corner of Rancho and Washington burned early Friday (11-21-08) morning. The fire, which caused more than 1 million in damage, has been ruled as arson. Some of the business owners stated that it was much more than that. They say it was a bomb, which makes sense after seeing the area. The parking lot was filled with shreds of glass more than a hundred feet from where the blaze started (a tuxedo shop).

One of the businesses damaged was the Ward 5 Chamber of Commerce office. Katherine Duncan, Ward 5 Chamber of Commerce President stated, “The whole shopping center feels like a warzone!” A handful of businesses, as well as the W5CC, have been forced to relocate. The Ward 5 Chamber of Commerce is doing business as usual thanks to The Urban Voice Magazine, which is allowing the W5CC to utilize some of their space until things can be figured out. No injuries were reported.

Dubai World-MGM Mirage investment gets final OK

Thu, Nov 20, 2008 (11:54 a.m.)
The Nevada Gaming Commission will allow the investment arm of Dubai
to acquire a bigger stake in MGM Mirage Inc. The plan given final approval on Thursday authorizes Dubai World to acquire up to a 20 percent stake in the Las Vegas-based casino company. That's up from its current 9.4 percent stake. Dubai World, the investment arm of the Persian Gulf state, already has invested about $6 billion in MGM Mirage. Dubai World and MGM Mirage are equal partners in the $9.3 billion CityCenter casino complex under construction on the Las Vegas Strip.

Las Vegas — Country music legend Reba McEntire is scheduled to perform at the Orleans Arena on Saturday, January 17 at 8 p.m. The concert will feature popular songs from her most recent album, “Duets,” which debuted atop the Billboard 200, along with hits that span her award-winning career. Reba McEntire is one of the most successful female recording artists in history, selling more than 55 million albums worldwide and boasting 33 No. 1 hits including “Does He Love You,” “How Was I To Know,” and “Somebody”. McEntire is the winner of multiple awards including two Grammy Awards, 7 Country Music Association Awards, 9 People’s Choice Awards, 12 Academy of Country Music Awards and 15 American Music Awards. She is also an acclaimed film, television and Broadway actress whose primetime comedy, “Reba,” was a top-rated sitcom for six seasons. In addition, McEntire is a celebrated author and designer of the REBA brand, which includes clothing, footwear, home collections, and other products. Tickets went on sale Friday, Nov. 21 and are priced at $60

WORD ON THE STREET......

How does it feel to have Obama as President?

A former veteran, middle-aged Caucasian, attending the 5th Annual Inter Tribal Pow Wow stated that we are in big trouble because Obama isn’t military minded enough.

A middle aged African American female and business owner stated that Obama can bring change and that is what America needs.

A Cuban American attending the Veteran’s Day Parade said he is very proud to see Obama in office and see’s great things for America.

A student and ROTC member from Valley High School said he see’s a future with Obama being in office.

A Moapa Band of Paiute’s Elder in her Golden Age professed that she likes Obama being President and says it’s about time a minority held the position .

A middle-aged, 1⁄2 Choctaw and 1⁄2 Cherokee lead case managers at Native American Community Services stated that Obama will change poison into medicine. “He brings hope to the people because he listens to us.”

PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENTS

The Uptown Jewels Lady Motorcycle Club is now collecting gently used
clothes and blankets, hygiene items, and non perishable food. Items can be
dropped off at 814 West Bonanza at Family MC on Tuesday’s between 7-10 p.m. For more info please call 702.787.6365 Indian Taco Wednesday’s at Moapa Travel Plaza located on the Moapa Indian Reservation (15N exit 75) Advertise in your local Las Vegas section for pennies on the dollar or sponsor a public announcement with a full listing of your business starting at $25.00. For more information please email kenaadams(at)indianvoices.net or call 702.787.6365/619.234.4753

Our deepest condolences to the family and club members of Kevin James aka ”Fat Cat” of Family MC. Our prayers are with you!

Country Music Superstar Reba McEntire Coming to the Orleans Arena January 17

Las Vegas — Country music legend Reba McEntire is scheduled
to perform at the Orleans Arena on Saturday, January 17
at 8 p.m. The concert will feature popular songs from her most
recent album, “Duets,” which debuted atop the Billboard 200,
along with hits that span her award-winning career.
Reba McEntire is one of the most successful female recording
artists in history, selling more than 55 million albums
worldwide and boasting 33 No. 1 hits including “Does He
Love You,” “How Was I To Know,” and “Somebody”. McEntire
is the winner of multiple awards including two Grammy
Awards, 7 Country Music Association Awards, 9 People’s
Choice Awards, 12 Academy of Country Music Awards and 15
American Music Awards. She is also an acclaimed film, television
and Broadway actress whose primetime comedy, “Reba,” was a
top-rated sitcom for six seasons. In addition, McEntire is a celebrated
author and designer of the REBA brand, which includes
clothing, footwear, home collections, and other products.

Tickets went on sale Friday, Nov. 21 and are priced at $60
and $75, including all taxes and fees. From now until
December 31, buyers will receive a free ticket to the Sam’s
Town 300—scheduled for February 28, 2009 at the Las Vegas
Motor Speedway—for each Reba McEntire ticket purchased.
Tickets can be purchased at the Orleans Arena Box Office
by calling 702.284.7777 or by visiting www.orleansarena.com .
Buyers should use code NASCAR to receive free Sam’s Town
300 tickets.

The Orleans Arena, a Boyd Gaming facility, located just off
the Strip is host to more than 200 events each year, including
top concerts such as Van Halen, Black Eyed Peas, Akon,
Rihanna, Brooks & Dunn, and Panic at the Disco; family
favorites Disney on Ice, Harlem Globetrotters, and Ringling
Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus; and a variety of sporting
events including the Las Vegas Wranglers professional ECHL
hockey team, NCAA basketball tournaments, the West Coast
Conference Tournament, plus three major motorsports events
each year. For information on booking events call 702-365-
7469 or visit to www.orleansarena.com .

• Cash Assistance
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