| June 26, 2007 |
| Arriving in Pine Ridge felt more like Arizona then South Dakota. Temperatures were soaring into the triple digits, with a hot wind whipping across the plains. As Tuesday arrived, the temps dropped into the 80's and the breeze turned to something more like South Dakota air. As we gathered at the cemetery, and began our yearly greetings of friends, family and supporters, a spirit bird flew over us and remained with the walkers through much of the walk. Prayers were lead by Fred Cedar Face, with the Elk Nation Drum singing the honor songs. JD and Mark Silent Bear lent a hand on the drum. The OST Police and the County Sheriff provided an escort for the walkers on the Memorial Walk. Our security crew ensured that the walkers making their small sacrifice, remainded safe from traffic on their journey to the Jumping Bull property. There, more prayers were said, more honor songs sang, and a message from Leonard was presented. Leonard updated us on his effort to bring 4,000 new homes to the Oglala Nation, as well as his support for this annual event on his behalf. With the names read from the Memorial Blanket read by Gary Christison, words and memorial cakes were shared. The event at the Jumping Bull property concluded with the committee's annual give-away. Honored were the children, grandmothers and grandfathers. |
| A great fried chicken dinner was served at the Br. Rene Hall at the Our Lady of the Sioux parish in Oglala, once again people visited as the youth concert began. After opening words by JD Nash, he performed songs from his new NAMMY nominated album with band member Brian McGuire. Following JD's energizing performance, the Arrow Space Band from Rosebud soon rocked us in a blues way, with special guest musicians coming all the way from Orlando, FL.. Mark Silent Bear from Boulder, CO. performed a touching song honoring Peltier. Local NAMMY nominated group Native Era took stage singing some of their soulful nominated songs. Wrapping up the showcase of talented musicans, was the local hard rockers, Spyderzback. It was great to see more local talent this year, and hope this trend continues. We wish the best for JD Nash & Red CIrcle and Native Era on their road to the NAMMY's and encourage all to vote. We missed the presence of Wayquay, Julian B and Dale Alan this year. With everyone pitching in on clean up, including the sheriff, our awesome security crew and supporters, we made our 10 pm curfew. |
| We would like to thank the following: The Families of : Jumping Bull, Cross, Little, Cedar Face, Good Voice Elk, Janis and Loud Hawk. Security Crew: Galeson Eagle Star, Nick Wounded, Chris Lone Elk, Marty Lone Elk, Danny Arrow and Paula Wahwasuck Special Thanks to: LPDC, Leonard Peltier, OST Police, Shannon County Sheriff, KILI Radio, Oasis Sound, Sister Connie, Karen Red Ear Horse, Candy Wahwasuck, Camille and Deanna. Owen Black Elk, Tom Poor Bear, Keith Rabin, Harvey Arden, Parchcorn Family, Fay Brings Them, NAICCO, AIMNC, KOLA, Tamra, LPSG- SWMO, all our sponsors who help make this event happen. All those who could attend. We also like to thank those who donated the school supplies for this year's school drive. We look forward to seeing you all again next year. The Committee |
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| WALK |
| NATIVE ERA |
| ARROW SPACE |
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| SPYDERZBACK |
| JD NASH RED CIRCLE |
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| grandmothers |
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| OGLALA COMMEMORATION |