Tribal Observer Issue: August 15, 2000

Elder Smith's Generosity, Compassion is for All

Tribal Elder Sandy Smith has sewn free baby blankets for Native American newborns for the last seven years.

Smith, who is housekeeper for the Behavioral Health Department, often gives her creations away at the semiannual Baby Celebrations which take place at the Elijah Elk Cultural Center.

1st Native American Rap Artist Performs at Soaring Eagle

Native American rap artist Litefoot made music his tool to motivate minors at a recent concert.

“Have you asked the creator what he wants you to do?” asked Litefoot to the few dozen Native youth he invited up on stage with him during a motivational segment of his performance. “If you haven’t asked him what he wants you to do, you’re wasting your time.”

Junior Miss Saginaw Ojibwe Princess Speech

[Editor’s note: Joelle Peters was crowned Junior Miss Saginaw Ojibwe Princess on Aug. 6. One criteria used to judge the candidates was their public speaking ability. However, due to weather and time constraints, the candidates were not able to do their presentations on stage in front of the majority of the powwow participants. The following is Joelle’s speech in its entirety]:

Boozhoo Anishnaabek and welcome to everyone attending the 16th Annual Little Elk’s Retreat “Honoring the Eagle” Powwow.

Pow Wow Committee Still Needs More Participants

Although plans are well underway, the 16th Annual Little Elks Retreat Powwow Committee is still looking for volunteers, dancers, drummers and even a princess or two.

Volunteers are needed in a variety of areas. The committee needs people to help set up the arbor about a week before the powwow. They also need people to help collect cedar which will be set up just before the event.

People can also help with registration, setting up chairs and collecting trash. “On behalf of the committee, I’d like to say thanks to all the volunteers and hope they return next year,” stated committee member Darcy Sprague.

Drums Provide Heartbeat of Little Elk Retreat Powwow

The heartbeat of the Tribal Nations pulsated through host drum “Bear Creek Singers” and special invite “Eyabay” at the 16th Annual Little Elk’s Retreat “Honoring the Eagle” Powwow.

Bear Creek won last year’s contest therefore receiving the honor of being this year’s host drum.

Local Ojibwe Speakers Tapped at Recent Language Camp

A recent language camp helped local cultural representatives tap one of the community’s rare resources — Ojibwe speakers. The event took place Aug. 13 to 18 at the Saginaw Chippewa Campgrounds. Attendees were encouraged to camp on site and to bring their tape recorders. The “Ojibwe Mowin Gawbayshiwin” or Ojibwe Language Camp is an annual event. The Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe volunteered to host this year’s activities.

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