Midwest SOARRING Foundation (MSF) Logo
Ojibwey Calendar

Ojibwe Calendar
By Nick Hockings -
Ojibwe Elder

< Previous | Next >

 

PAST EVENTS

 

WINTER SOLSTICE CELEBRATION & LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Saturday, December 18, 2021 11am
Churchhill Woods Forest Preserve
900 West St. Charles Road
Lombard, IL. 60148

Join Midwest SOARRING members to celebrate the winter solstice followed by a land acknowledgement. Your presence is greatly appreciated. Come enjoy beautiful Churchill Woods, the historic McKee House, and the scenic DuPage River with it's island. All are welcome.

Joseph Standing Bear will lead the ceremony. Dress for the weather. Ample parking is available near the shelter. Following the solstice celebration, DuPage County Forest Preserve will hold a land acknowledgement ceremony honoring the original Native peoples of the land.

Bring your friends and family and join our winter gathering. We look forward to seeing you there.

 

SOARRING VIRTUAL ANNUAL MEMBERS MEETING & OPEN HOUSE

Sunday, December 12, 2021 11am Members Meeting - 1-5pm Open House
Midwest SOARRING Cultural Center
133 W. 13th Street
Lockport, IL. 60441

Midwest SOARRING Foundation invites you to attend our annual virtual members meeting on Saturday, December 12 at 11am CT. During the meeting SOARRING's 2021 activities and events will be reviewed, the election of officers will be held, and proposed plans for the next year will be covered.

Now is an excellent time to renew your annual membership. You can pay with a credit card online through PayPal, or snail mail your check to Midwest SOARRING Foundation, P.O. Box 275, Lyons, IL 60534. Your membership supports our many events and speakers.

If you have not already received the Zoom link and you want to attend our annual members meeting sign up for our email newsletter and the Zoom link will be emailed to you. You do need to pre-register to attend the virtual members meeting.

Stop by our Native American Cultural Center that afternoon from 1 to 5pm and enjoy the holiday season at SOARRING's Holiday Open House. Bring a friend. It's an opportunity to shop for holiday gifts at our gift shop, enjoy our exhibits and share each other's good company. Refreshments will be served.

 

VIRTUAL TALK: NO WORD FOR ART: EXPLORING THE INDIGENOUS ROOTS OF CREATIVITY

Friday, November 19, 2021 7pm CST

Indigenous languages in the Great Lakes region of North America did not have a word for art. Visual expression through object and adornment linked people together while accentuating the individuality within indigenous communities. Traditional patterns and designs evolved into a language of its own and in some cases embellishing objects was considered a sacred practice.

Together we will explore the creative process from an indigenous perspective contemporary approaches to indigenous expression and demonstrations of Indigenous techniques will be examined. Traditional teachings will be shared where appropriate.

Naomi Smith is an Indigenous Artist and Educator. She has for over 25 years shared traditional teachings with various communities and groups. Her work focuses on the ways of the Indigenous people of the Great Lakes region from a historical and contemporary perspective often through the story of beads. Naomi’s artwork embraces ancestral designs using quillwork, beadwork and other indigenous methods and materials. She has exhibited her work across Canada and internationally.

“Honouring our traditions is my voice within and beyond my Culture and Community. Traditionally there is no word for “art” in Native languages yet artistry and visual expression are critical in defining who we are as Indigenous people. It is this path I wish to exemplify through my teachings and my work."

This is a Virtual meeting using ZOOM. While we do not charge for our Zoom presentations, we do encourage attendees to consider making a small donation to Midwest SOARRING Foundation. If you have registered for the original offering of this virtual talk, you do not need to reregister. Otherwise, please register for this event here. Zoom details will be mailed to registered attendees a few days prior to the presentation.

 

MIDWEST SOARRING FOUNDATION CALL TO ACTION PRAYER VIGIL FOR ANCIENT MOUND

Saturday, November 13, 2021 3:30pm - 5pm CT
Original Gougar Homestead
Gougar Road and Rte. 30
New Lenox, IL.

We will gather at 3:30pm and at dusk begin a short ceremony of protection for our ancestors. Parking in a park district parking lot is available just north of Gougar Road and at Trinity Services, east side of Gougar Road. We ask you to be respectful, dress for the weather, and bring a candle. (Note: Your candle should be 1/2" in diameter. Please bring a paper cup with an x in the bottom to catch the candle wax drips.)

Our purpose is to bring awareness to this ancient mound prevent it from being disturbed for a proposed widening of Gougar Road. The mound was partially disturbed during the road's initial construction.

The Gougar family wants to protect the mound from any further disturbance. They are our strong allies.

We invite you to join our sacred circle of protection.

 

VIRTUAL TALK: BILLY CALDWELL AND THE CHICAGO GREAT LAKES TRAIL - Co-sponsored by College of Dupage Native American Studies Committee

Saturday, November 13, 2021 1pm CST

Author Susan Kelsey will share the story of Billy Caldwell and his journey after leaving the Chicago area after signing treaties to cede over 5,000,000 acres of land to a growing white settlement. His legacy tribe is the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation, and she will provide an update on their story. Her book may be purchased on Amazon.

Susan L. Kelsey is an author of four historical books, including Billy Caldwell (1780-1841) Chicago and the Great Lakes Trail. She lived on the Caldwell Reserve in Chicago and in 1993 became interested in why her Sauganash neighborhood was named after an Indian Chief. Since that time, she has been researching over 28 years and has travelled thousands of miles through Canada and the U.S. to follow the trail of Caldwell. Today, she is producing a documentary film with the Caldwell legacy tribe, the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation. The film will be released early 2023.

This is a Virtual meeting using ZOOM. While we do not charge for our Zoom presentations, we do encourage attendees to consider making a small donation to Midwest SOARRING Foundation. Please register for this event here. Zoom details will be mailed to registered attendees a few days prior to the presentation. A replay of this talk can be viewed on youtube at: youtu.be/IliU1i_dBUA.

 

VIRTUAL TALK: LAKE SUPERIOR OJIBWE TREATIES - THE TREATIES THAT BUILT AMERICA

Saturday, October 23, 2021 1pm CST

In 1837, 1842, and 1854 Ojibwe Bands in northern Wisconsin, northeast Minnesota, and Upper Michigan ceded their lands to the U.S. government. While white settlers were slow to move into the region, these treaties provided essential natural resources for the growth and expansion of the United States. Lumber built the near treeless Great Plains, copper was used in telephone and electrical wires, and iron ore built trains and later cars that allowed for movement of people and goods across the country. Using Ojibwe language and other sources, we will explore why Ojibwe leaders agreed to them as well as the obligations the United States agreed to and what that means for us today.

Erik Martin Redix (Misko-anang) is a member of the Eagle clan from the Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe Reservation in Wisconsin. He is the author of The Murder of Joe White: Ojibwe Leadership and Colonialism in Wisconsin (Michigan State University Press, 2014). He received his Ph.d in History from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities in 2012. He has taught at Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe Community College, Macalester College, and the University of Minnesota-Duluth. He resides on the Grand Portage Ojibwe Reservation in Minnesota and is the Anishinaabe Language Director at Oshki Ogimaag Community School.

This is a Virtual meeting using ZOOM. While we do not charge for our Zoom presentations, we do encourage attendees to consider making a small donation to Midwest SOARRING Foundation. Please register for this event here. Zoom details will be mailed to registered attendees a few days prior to the presentation.

 

NATIVE AMERICAN FALL GATHERING

Sunday, October 3, 2021 10am-5pm CT
I & M Lincoln Landing
9th & Canal Street, Lockport, IL

Everyone is invited to attend the Native American Fall Gathering at the beautiful Lincoln Landing in Lockport. Highlights include Native American dancing and drumming, Aztec dancers Ocelotl-Cihuacoatl, Native musicians, children's activities, craft and food vendors, and a book signing by author Susan Kelsey with her book titled Billy Caldwell: Chicago and the Great Lakes Trail.

Admission: 18 & over $5, Children 8-18 $3, under 8 free.

Event takes place rain or shine. No drugs, alcohol or weapons. Sorry, no pets. Bring lawn chairs. Event subject to change. Face coverings are recommended for everyone's safety.

View the flyer.

PHOTOGRAPHY DISCLAIMER

Notice to all Fall Gathering attendees and participants: There will be professional photographers taking pictures and video recording during the event. With your entrance to the I & M Lincoln Landing, you are giving permission for Midwest SOARRING Foundation to use any photos of you which might appear in future promotional materials or advertising used in conjunction with future events.

 

DOWNERS GROVE PUBLIC LIBRARY LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Saturday, Oct. 2, 2021 10-11:15am CT
Downers Grove Public Library
Fischel Park, Downers Grove, IL.

The library invites the Downers Grove community to join in the formal announcement of its Land Acknowledgment. Joseph Standing Bear Schranz, founder and President of the Midwest SOARRING Foundation, will comment on the library’s acknowledgment and its significance. Native dancers will perform a traditional healing dance. After the event, patrons are invited to explore an art exhibit of the Midwest SOARRING Foundation’s photographs and artifacts at the library, join in on a beaded necklace craft and crayon artifact rubbings for kids, and learn more about The REDress Project and The Orange Shirt Society. Additionally, Native Experience Book Bundles will be raffled off and include titles for all ages.

To read the land acknowledgement and learn more visit dglibrary.org/land/

 

PIONEER DAY at STACY'S TAVERN

Sunday, Sept. 26, 2021 1-4:30pm CT
Stacy's Tavern History Center
800 N. Main St., Glen Ellyn, IL 60137

Come see what life was like for the early settlers of Glen Ellyn, on the same spot where early residents lived! Try your hand at 1840's life. There will be live farm animals, craft-making for kids, candle making, corn shelling, apple peeling, pioneer games and toys, learn how to rope a bed, do laundry 1840’s style, experience 1840's school in an outdoor classroom, make rope, tour the Tavern, and much, much more! Adults $8, GEHS Members $6; Children (3-17) $4, GEHS Members Children $3; children under 3 are free.

Chief Joseph Standing Bear will open the event with a blessing at 1 p.m. Native American dancers will be performing at 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. Also new this year: Tim Botts will offer bookmarks with your name written in 19th century style, and artist Wes Douglas will be doing sketches. (This event was previously known as Tavern Day.)

In the event of inclement weather, a decision will be made by 10 a.m. on Sept. 26 if the event will have to be cancelled. Visit gehs.org/calendar-of-events.html or The Glen Ellyn Historical Society Facebook page for weather guidance.

 

FALL EQUINOX CELEBRATION

Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2021 11am CT
Heritage Pioneer Village
Lockport, IL

Join Midwest SOARRING members for a fall equinox celebration led by Joseph Standing Bear Schranz. The event is free and open to the public.

We will meet at the Heritage Pioneer Village, 249 W. 2nd Street, Lockport, IL., near the Medicine Wheel Garden. In the interest of keeping everyone healthy, please wear an appropriate face covering. Stay home if you have been experiencing any flu symptoms in the last two weeks.

 

SOARRING COMMUNITY PICNIC

Saturday, June 26, 2021 11am CT
Dellwood Park, Cardinal Pavillion
Lockport, IL

Mark your calendars! We're going to go outside and spend an afternoon in the sun. We have reserved the Cardinal Pavilion at the top of the hill at Dellwood Park in Lockport for a happy community gathering! This large, hilly and green park is good for hikes, frisbee golf, and we have a nice pavilion to hang out under should the sun shine too bright!

To minimize germs, we will break from our potluck tradition and ask everyone to bring or arrange for your own food. Also, to avoid musical park-benches, bringing your own lawn chair is recommended.

This will be a MASK-OPTIONAL event. If you want to maintain distance, keep your mask on. If you are vaccinated and want to share smiles and hugs, take your mask off! If you're afraid, we understand and will miss you - and look forward to seeing you again when you feel safe to join us! If you have had any symptoms in the 2 weeks before the picnic, please stay home. Masks will be on the honor system.

Everyone is welcome, the event is free, and if you're not sure that includes you, I assure you it does!

This will be a family friendly, drug and alcohol free event.

SUMMER SOLSTICE CELEBRATION

Sunday, June 20, 2021 11am CT

Join Midwest SOARRING members for a summer solstice celebration led by Joseph Standing Bear Schranz. The event is free and open to the public.

We will meet at the Heritage Pioneer Village, 249 W. 2nd Street, Lockport, IL., near the Medicine Wheel Garden. Following the ceremony the Miles Goddard Scholarship will be awarded to two worthy applicants. Coffee and desert will follow. All are welcome.

 

VIRTUAL TALK: BEARS EARS NATIONAL MONUMENT AND IT'S PLACE IN UTAH'S WILDERNESS

Sunday, June 20, 2021 11am CT

Bears Ears National Monument was established by President Obama at in December of 2016 at the urging of the Bears Ears Intertribal Coalition -- Hope, Navajo, Ute, Ute Mountain Ute, and Zuni. In addition to protecting a spectacular natural and cultural landscape it set a first of its kind precedent of co-management between the United States and tribal governments. In December of 2017 President Trump slashed its land area by 85%, carved the remaining portion into two pieces, and eliminated the co-management provision. President Biden has promised to restore the original monument and has created a review process which, hopefully, will bring that about - possibly by the time of our program.

Bears Ears has also served as a model for alliance of Tribes with regional and national conservation organizations who stepped up in support of Intertribal Coalition's proposal. The region is central to a larger network of remaining wild lands within the boundaries of the state of Utah. The largest network of unprotected wilderness in the lower 48 states of the U.S. There is a vigorous national campaign to protect those places as well --preserving the wild lands and ancient sacred places while helping the land to help humanity in our struggles with climate change.

Our speaker is Clayton Daughenbaugh, Organizing Director for the Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance. SUWA is a close ally of the Intertribal Coalition and a central player in the Utah wilderness protection effort.

If you missed the April presentation on the Bears Ears National Monument it was recorded. Please visit this link to watch it..

 

VIRTUAL TALK: BIRD FEEDING WITHOUT BIRDFEEDERS

Tuesday, April 6, 2021 7pm CT

How did seed-eating birds eat before bird feeders? This presentation on restoring native landscaping in your yard reveals how valuable native plants are to our native birds. Kate will showcase Forest Preserve native landscapes as well as her own suburban yard to give you plenty of inspiration. She will also discuss which native plants attract the insects needed for our birds to feed their young. Even seed-eating birds feed insects to their young. And the birds agree - it’s not too early to be planning your native garden. Information will be provided on native plant sources, upcoming native plant sales, and on sites that help you identify and track the birds in your landscape. There will be a presentation for approximately 45 minutes followed by a question and answer period.

Not from Northern Illinois? No problem! Although the places she lives and works are used as examples, Kate can discuss and direct you to native plant resources appropriate for your part of the country.

Kate Caldwell is an Interpretive Naturalist at Plum Creek Nature Center near Beecher, IL, one of the jewels managed by the Forest Preserve District of Will County. She extends the use of native landscaping to her own suburban yard.

This is a Virtual meeting using ZOOM. While we do not charge for our Zoom presentations, we do encourage attendees to consider making a small donation to Midwest SOARRING Foundation. Please register for this event here. Zoom details will be mailed to registered attendees a few days prior to the presentation.

 

VIRTUAL TALK: BUFFALO FIELD CAMPAIGN:
Restoring wild, migratory bison to the Yellowstone Ecosystem

Saturday, March 27, 2021 1pm CT

Midwest SOARRING Foundation invites you to attend an online Zoom presentation given by James Holt, Executive Director of the Buffalo Field Campaign. James was raised on the Nez Perce Reservation in Lapwai, Idaho where he lives today. His family lifestyle is one of tradition. James was taught to hunt and fish early on, to help pick berries and dig roots, to be a provider. He was given the belief that his relationship with the natural world is sacred, and was given the responsibility of being a warrior for Mother Earth. James childhood background compliments his education as he holds a B.S. in Environmental Science and a Certificate in Diversity and Stratification.

This presentation will explore the ecosystem services of wild, migratory bison in the Yellowstone Ecosystem, the issues surrounding bison management, the influence of tribes on management, and the Buffalo Field Campaign's grassroots, science-based solutions for these issues.

A brief overview will be provided of the history of the Buffalo Field Campaign along with a description of the ecological services provided by wild bison as a keystone species in the Yellowstone region. This will be followed by adiscussion of the current hurdles the Campaign is working to overcome in advocating for Brother Buffalo as our National Mammal, and the only continuously-wild herd of bison in the lower 48 states.

Indigenous goals for Yellowstone bison are founded in culture, subsistence, and on-reservation health and wellbeing. Tribal actions are facilitated by treaty-reserved hunting rights and on-reservation bison restoration. As such, an overview of how the Campaign interacts with tribes and supports their efforts will also be provided. The Campaign supports tribal sovereignty, while prioritizing wild, migratory bison and the environment. The Buffalo Field Campaign envisions a management structure where Yellowstone bison are free to roam the region naturally fulfilling their ecological niche, and building resilience against climate change and habitat degradation.

This is a Virtual meeting using ZOOM. While we do not charge for our Zoom presentations, we do encourage attendees to consider making a small donation to Midwest SOARRING Foundation. Please register for this event here. Zoom details will be mailed to registered attendees a few days prior to the presentation.

 

NATIVE ADVOCACY ROUNDTABLE:
Native Americans of Glen Ellyn - Past, Present, and Future

Tuesday, March 23, 2021 from 6:30-8:00pm CT

College of DuPage Native American Studies Committee, Glen Ellyn Library, and Glen Ellyn Historical Society are presenting a program to address the strong Native presence in the DuPage region and how to be an active ally for the local Native American community. The 4 part agenda includes:

For more information and the zoom link, download the flier.

 

VIRTUAL TALK: CULTURAL BURNING

Saturday, March 6, 2021 1pm CT

Midwest SOARRING Foundation invites you to attend an online zoom presentation given by Margo Robbins, co-founder and Executive Director of the Cultural Fire Management Council (CFMC). Margo is one of the key planners and organizers of the Cultural Burn Training Exchange (TREX) that takes place on the Yurok Reservation in Northern California twice a year. She is also a co-lead and advisor for the Indigenous People's Burn Network. Margo comes from the traditional Yurok village of Morek, and is an enrolled member of the Yurok Tribe. She gathers and prepares traditional food and medicine, and is a basket weaver and regalia maker. She is the Indian Education Director for the Klamath-Trinity Joint Unified School district, a mom, and a grandma.

Margo Robbins talk will cover the traditional and contemporary uses of fire, the benefits of fire, as well as the challenges and solutions.

This is a Virtual meeting using ZOOM. While we do not charge for our Zoom presentations, we do encourage attendees to consider making a small donation to Midwest SOARRING Foundation. Please register for this event here. Zoom details will be mailed to registered attendees a few days prior to the presentation.

 

VIRTUAL WATER LEGACY TALK: SULFIDE MINING IN MINNESOTA

Saturday, Jan. 16, 2021 1pm

Midwest SOARRING Foundation invites you to attend an online zoom presentation given by Don Arnosti, Conservation Leader and Board Member of Water Legacy, an award-winning 501(c)(3) non-profit grassroots organization founded in 2009 to protect Minnesota waters and the communities that rely on them, particularly from sulfide mining pollution. Don is a talented and informative speaker you won't want to miss. Arnosti's talk will cover the threat of sulfide ore mining to four major watersheds in northern Minnesota. This will include impacts to fish, wild rice, and the people who depend on them.

Don Arnosti is a Minnesota conservation leader working over the years as a Policy Director and Executive Director for the National Audubon Society, the Izaak Walton League, Clean Water Action and several other local groups. He's been involved in protecting Minnesota's resources from the threats of sulfide mining since the 1980's, when he led the environmental team participating in a state and industry-sponsored Mining Simulation Study. Presently, he is an environmental consultant, and serves on the Board of Water Legacy, a non-profit focused on using litigation and organizing to protect Minnesota's waters from the toxic threat of sulfide mining.

This is a virtual meeting using Zoom. While we do not charge for our Zoom presentations, we do encourage attendees to consider making a small donation to Water Legacy and Midwest SOARRING Foundation. Please register for this event here. Zoom details will be emailed registered attendees prior to the meeting.

 

ANNUAL 2020 MEMBERS MEETING

Sunday, December 27, 2020 - 2pm

Midwest SOARRING Foundation invites everyone to join our 2020 Annual Members Meeting. This is a virtual meeting using Zoom. Please register for this event here. Zoom details will be emailed registered attendees prior to the meeting.

 

SUMMER SOLTICE CELEBRATION & TALKING CIRCLE

Saturday, June 20, 2020 - 11am
Will County Heritage Village
249 W. 2nd Street
Lockport, IL. 60441

Midwest SOARRING Foundation invites everyone to celebrate the summer solstice with a blessing followed by a talking circle led by Joseph Standing Bear Schranz.

The event will be held outside. Participants are asked to wear masks and practise social distancing. In the event of rain the event will be cancelled due to COVID-19.

Everyone is welcome! The event is free and no registration is required.

 

OUR PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY TO COVID-19 GLOBAL PRAYER

Sunday, March 29, 2020 - Noon-1pm, Eastern Daylight Time
Wherever You Are

Joseph Standing Bear Schranz invites all pipe carriers and people of different faiths and beliefs to unite in a global prayer from the heart. Wherever we happen to be, let us each pray in our own manner for one hour.

Now it is time for a global shift and a time for action. We must protect the Red Bloods and the Green Bloods from further destruction and begin a healing towards all.

 

BEAT THE DRUM PHOTOGRAPHY RECEPTION AND TALK

Sunday, March 1, 2020 - 1pm-3pm
Opening Reception: 1-3pm
Dear Earth Talk: 2-3pm Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods
21850 Riverwoods Road
Riverwoods, IL. 60015

Beat The Drum-A Glimpse of Native American Pow Wow Culture features the photography of Tom and Lynn Anderson taken at Midwest SOARRING Foundation's intertribal Harvest Pow Wow. This family friendly event held in the western suburbs of Chicago is an annual celebration of Native American culture featuring drumming, singing, and Native American and Indigenous dancers in colorful regalia. Experience an authentic and rich educational gathering with descendants of America’s First People.The exhibition runs through Sunday, April 12, 2020.

This exhibition is coupled with a Dear Earth talk, featuring Joseph Standing Bear. Joseph is the Founder and President of Midwest SOARRING Foundation.

Tickets for the Dear Earth Talk are $10 for members/$15 for non-members. To register visit the Brushwood Center.

 

WINTER STORYTELLING

Saturday, February 22, 2020 - Noon-3pm
Pilcher Park Nature Center
2501 Highland Park Dr.
Joliet, IL. 60432

Midwest SOARRING Foundation and Pilcher Park Nature Center welcomes you to an afternoon of hot chocolate and Native American Storytelling.

In the days of our ancestors, bundled up in our little houses trying to stay warm, stories were told to pass the time. This is the source of the oral tradition that all cultures once shared, when stories were passed down from one generation to the next.

We will present a variety of traditional stories from around ancient North America, along with some artifacts with their own tales to tell. Hot chocolate will be available, and if you'd like to bring cookies or a snack to share, that would be welcome. Our stories are appropriate for all ages.

Everyone is welcome! The event is free and no registration is required.

 

VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION DINNER & ANNUAL MEMBERS HOLIDAY PARTY & MEETING

Saturday, December 14, 2019, 4:00-9pm
Pilcher Park Nature Center
2501 Highland Park Drive
Joliet, IL. 60432

This gathering is a celebration of the community we build by the work we do. Please bring a side dish to share. Main entries, rolls, and beverages will be provided.

The annual members meeting will be held at 4pm. This will be followed by a candlelit walk and the holiday party with dinner and fellowship after the walk. At 7pm we will take turns decorating the Christmas tree with your special ornament. Later, we will hold a holiday split-the-pot raffle.

Every year we ask members to bring a gift for those in need. For the children please bring hats, mittens, or a new toy. For adults please bring a non-perishable food item, toiletries, or household goods.

We ask each family or individual attending the party to make one holiday ornament to decorate our Christmas tree. We will take turns sharing the special meaning of each ornament and then hang them on our tree. The tree will stay decorated until after the holidays, on display at the Nature Center.

This event is free and open to all 2019 Midwest SOARRING volunteers and current members. Memberships can be renewed at the event. All others will be charged a nominal fee of $15 pp. This is a drug and alcohol free event.

 

INTERFAITH PRAYER CEREMONY

Sunday, November 24, 2019 - 3pm
St. Dennis Church
1214 S. Hamilton St.
Lockport, IL. 60441

Everyone is invited to an enriching interfaith prayer service which includes a Native American prayer to the seven directions. Representatives from other faiths will also share prayers from their respective traditions. Social gathering to follow.

 

ANNUAL TREE SEED PLANTING

Saturday, November 23, 2019 - 10am-1pm
Scout Cabin
417 Fairbanks Road
Riverside, IL. 60546

We invite all to join SOARRING for our 15,000th tree seed planting. Everyone is invited to gather at the Scout Cabin located along the Des Plaines River at 10am. The hardwood seed planting will begin at 11am followed by food, talk, and teachings. The cabin has a fireplace and parking is available along Fairbanks Ave. Potluck items are welcome. Hot chili, coffee and hot chocolate will be served. Dress for the weather!

 

FILM SHOWING: WHAT WAS OURS

Saturday, November 16,2019 - 6pm-9:30pm
Universalist Unitarian Church of Joliet
3401 W Jefferson St.
Joliet, Illinois 60431

In honor of Native American Heritage Month, the Universalist Unitarian Church of Joliet and Midwest Soarring Foundation are working together to show the documentary What Was Ours along with a short slideshow of SOARRING's trip to Standing Rock. This will be followed by a discussion by Joe Standing Bear about repatriation and reburial. After the movie, there will be a pot luck, so bring along a dish to share. The event is free and open to the public.

What Was Ours is a film that touches on the lives of three individuals from the Wind River Indian Reservation and their journey to The Field Museum in Chicago, Illinois. They each take this trip with hopes to bring home artifacts stored within the walls of the museum.

“Arapaho and Shoshone people have always wanted a museum on the reservation. When people hear that we ask to borrow our artifacts, they wonder why we have to ask. They’re ours.”
— Jordan Dresser, Northern Arapaho Tribal Member

For more info on the film visit Facebook event link.

 

MIDWEST SOARRING 25th ANNUAL HARVEST POW WOW

Saturday & Sunday, Sept. 21 & 22 2019
Naper Settlement
523 S. Webster St.
Naperville, IL 60540

For more info visit www.harvestpowwow.com

 

2019 COMCAST CARES VOLUNTEER WORK DAY

Saturday, May 4, 2019 - 8am-2pm
Heritage Village
249 West 2nd Street
Lockport, IL. 60441
RSVP by April 18, 2019 at Comcast Cares

Midwest SOARRING cordially invites all volunteers to join Comcast employees for a volunteer work spring cleanup day. We will work together and assist in land clean-up and preparation for spring, clearing out and preparing areas for sacred planting along with building cleaning and organization in Heritage Village in the Village of Lockport.

Volunteer projects will also involve working along the I & M Canal and restoring Monarch butterfly habitat by planting milkweed. Lunch and drinks and a T shirt will be provided. Entertainment will follow lunch.

There is work for all ages and interests, and we always have such a great day working on the land together! Event takes place rain or shine. Please check the weather and dress accordingly.

For more information please call 224.229.5950 or email Sharisse Sheridan. Please register by April 18, 2019.

 

FILM SHOWING: OUR SPIRITS DON'T SPEAK ENGLISH: INDIAN BOARDING SCHOOL

Saturday, April 27, 2019 - 1:30-3pm
Midwest SOARRING Cultural Center

In April, viewers will learn about the Indian Boarding Schools of the 19th and 20th century in the monthly film screening of Our Spirits Don't Speak English. Each month, guests can enjoy a different 30-40 minute film with discussion about an aspect of Native American culture. These films are produced by Native American filmmakers such as Rich-Heape films, and presented in cooperation with various tribes. All film screenings are offered by Midwest SOARING as a service to the community, and there is no charge to attend.

After the film visit our Native American Cultural Center Gift Shop and enjoy our photo exhibition gallery The Repatriation of Iron Tail's Possessions: The Face on the Indian Nickel and the collection donated by Dr. Clifford Knapp.

Meet and greet other Midwest SOARRING members. We welcome new members.

 

FILM SHOWING: HOW TO TRACE YOUR NATIVE AMERICAN ANCESTRY

Saturday, March 30, 2019 - 1:30-3pm
Midwest SOARRING Cultural Center

March will kick off Midwest SOARRING’s monthly film screenings at its cultural center. Each month, guests can enjoy a different 30-40 minute film with discussion about an aspect of Native American culture. These films are produced by Native American filmmakers such as Rich-Heape films, and presented in cooperation with various tribes. All film screenings are offered by Midwest SOARING as a service to the community, and there is no charge to attend. March’s film will be the award-winning “How to Trace Your Native American Heritage”. Does your family share a legend about a Native American ancestor? This film can teach how to search for your Native American ancestors, discover your heritage, and perhaps qualify for tribal membership.

After the film visit our Native American Cultural Center Gift Shop and enjoy our photo exhibition gallery The Repatriation of Iron Tail's Possessions: The Face on the Indian Nickel and the collection donated by Dr. Clifford Knapp.

Meet and greet other Midwest SOARRING members. We welcome new members.

 

SPRING EQUINOX CEREMONY

Wednesday, March 20th, 2019 - 11am
Midwest SOARRING Cultural Center

Midwest SOARRING invites you to join in a short traditional ceremony celebrating the spring equinox led by Joseph Standing Bear Schrantz. The event will focus on health and balance for the new season.

 

TALKING CIRCLE

Saturday, January 12, 2019 - 11:30 pm
Midwest SOARRING Native American Cultural Center

Talking circles provide an opportunity for individuals to connect with our community over many issues of daily life as well share their spiritual concerns. For those who have not participated in a talking circle we encourage you to get involved. No politics are discussed. Everyone has an opportunity to talk and be heard.

Following each circle there is ample opportunity for fellowship, as we enjoy a feast. We have a tradition of each member bringing a dish to share with others. While we do not have an oven, crock pots, casseroles, salads, and desserts are welcome. Please bring enough to share with others. This is also a time to share each other’s favorite recipes.

 

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE & NATIVE AMERICAN MARKET

Two Saturdays, December 1st & 15th, 2018 - 11am-5pm
Midwest SOARRING Cultural Center

Shop our specialty vendors displaying unique, handmade Native themed arts and crafts. Find that perfect gift for everyone on your list.

Visit our Native American Cultural Center Gift Shop and enjoy our photo exhibition gallery The Repatriation of Iron Tail's Possessions: The Face on the Indian Nickel and the collection donated by Dr. Clifford Knapp.

Meet and greet other Midwest SOARRING members and share a cup of coffee or hot chocolate. We welcome new members.

 

VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION DINNER & ANNUAL MEMBERS HOLIDAY PARTY & MEETING

Saturday, December 8, 2018 - 5:30pm-9pm
Pilcher Park Nature Center
2501 Highland Park Drive
Joliet, IL. 60432
RSVP by December 3, 2018 Call 708.257.4300

This gathering is a celebration of the community we build by the work we do. Please bring a side dish to share. Main entries, rolls, and beverages will be provided.

The annual members meeting will be held at 5pm. This will be followed by a candlelit walk and the holiday party with dinner and fellowship after the walk. At 7pm we will take turns decorating the Christmas tree with your special ornament. Later, we will hold a holiday split-the-pot raffle.

Every year we ask members to bring a gift for those in need. For the children please bring hats, mittens, or a new toy. For adults please bring a non-perishable food item, toiletries, or household goods.

We ask each family or individual attending the party to make one holiday ornament to decorate our Christmas tree. We will take turns sharing the special meaning of each ornament and then hang them on our tree. The tree will stay decorated until after the holidays, on display at the Nature Center.

This event is free and open to all 2018 Midwest SOARRING volunteers and current members. Memberships can be renewed at the event. All others will be charged a nominal fee of $10 pp. This is a drug and alcohol free event.

 

TRADITIONAL TEACHINGS with RON KANUTSKI

Sunday October 28, 2018 - 1pm
Midwest SOARRING Cultural Center

Join Ron Kanutski for his popular and engaging traditional teachings.Ron Kanutski is a tribal member of the Lake Helen Reserve/Red Rock Band (Obijiwanong). He currently resides in Thunder Bay,Ontario, Canada with his family of seven and is the sole proprietor of With Care Consulting for the past 18 years. Ron actively works in the mental health and addictions field as a consultant, group facilitator, counselor, college professor, trainer, healer and cultural teacher.

As a cultural teacher and facilitator, he has worked actively in the United States and Canada. Ron has spent time with Elders of the Woodland tradition and enjoys sharing those teachings to people of all cultures. Light refreshments will follow.

Advance ticket price $20 per event, $30 for both events Saturday and Sunday. Tickets at the door $25 for each event. Sorry no refunds. Limited seats. For more info call 708.257.4300.

 

DRUM CIRCLE with RON KANUTSKI

Saturday October 27, 2018 - 1pm
First United Methodist Church of LaGrange
100 W. Cossitt, (East Door Entrance)
LaGrange, IL 60525

Bring your drum or rattle the last weekend in October to join Ron Kanutski for his popular drum social and traditional teachings. Two different events, one Saturday, one Sunday, held at two differnt locations.

Ron Kanutski is a tribal member of the Lake Helen Reserve/Red Rock Band (Obijiwanong). He currently resides in Thunder Bay,Ontario, Canada with his family of seven and is the sole proprietor of With Care Consulting for the past 18 years. Ron actively works in the mental health and addictions field as a consultant, group facilitator, counselor, college professor, trainer, healer and cultural teacher.

As a cultural teacher and facilitator, he has worked actively in the United States and Canada. Ron has spent time with Elders of the Woodland tradition and enjoys sharing those teachings to people of all cultures. Light refreshments will follow.

Advance ticket price $20 per event, $30 for both events Saturday and Sunday. Tickets at the door $25 for each event. Sorry no refunds. Limited seats.For more info call 708.257.4300.

 

MOVIE OUTING - NEITHER WOLF NOR DOG

Sunday, October 7, 2018 - 9:30am
Randall 15 IMAX
550 N. Randall Road
Batavia, IL. 60510

Join us to see the movie Neither Wolf Nor Dog at 9:30am Sunday, October 7, 2018. Afterwards, those interested can gather for a bit to eat. Call 630.761.0601 for ticket information.

 

BISON BLESSING

Saturday October 6, 2018 at Noon
Lords Park
255 Grand
Elgin, IL.

The Join Joseph Standing Bear as he gives his annual blessing of the bison located at Lords Park. Ceremony will start promptly at noon. There is never a charge for the ceremony.

 

MSF 24th ANNUAL HARVEST POW WOW

September 22 and 23, 2018
SATURDAY 11AM - 10PM, SUNDAY 11AM - 5PM
Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster Street, Naperville, IL 60540

POW WOW HIGHLIGHTS

 

Note: all events/exhibits are subject to change.

Gate Admission:

Adults $12, Seniors 62+ $9, Children 3-12 $7. Kids under 3 free. Purchase advance tickets at a discount by September 15, 2018 at www.harvestpowwow.com/tickets.html. Tickets purchased online are not combinable with any other discounts. Pow Wow admission includes access to Naper Settlement during regular hours.

Bring lawn chairs. Pow Wow takes place rain or shine. No alcohol or drugs allowed. Sorry, no pets. Your admission fee supports MSF and its programs. Event subject to change. For up to date info call MSF 708-257-4300. The Harvest Pow Wow is partially supported by a grant from the city of Naperville.

Programs and exhibits are subject to change. Check back for current updates.

PHOTOGRAPHY DISCLAIMER

Notice to all Pow Wow attendees and participants: There will be professional photographers taking pictures and video recording during the Harvest Pow Wow. With your entrance to the Naper Settlement, you are giving permission for Midwest SOARRING Foundation to use any photos of you which might appear in future promotional materials or advertising used in conjunction with future Pow Wow's.

 

MONTHLY TALKING CIRCLE

Saturday, April 28, 2018 at Noon
Midwest SOARRING Cultural Center

Joseph Standing Bear will lead a talking circle at Noon on March 31, 2018. Doors will open around 11:30AM. Following the talking circle will be a feast. Everyone should bring a dish to pass. Enjoy fellowship during and after the feast. Everyone is invited!

 

INTRO TO OILS - FREE WORKSHOP

Sunday, April 22, 2018 from 1PM-2:30PM
Midwest SOARRING Cultural Center

Seats are limited. Call 708-257-4300 or email soarring@aol.com to reserve your seat!

Join Misty and Jackie to learn about the powerful health benefits of essential oils! In this workshop with Young Living essential oils, Misty and Jackie will talk about uses and benefits of commonly used oils and oil-infused products. They also will have several oils and oil-infused products on hand for you to smell. In this informative workshop, Misty and Jackie will address these questions:

After the presentation, every attendee will have the opportunity to do an iTOVi scan for a special $10 Midwest SOARRING rate. With this hand held scan, in less than 2 minutes, you get a personalized report of essential oils that would support your body!

For flyer click here!

 

COMCAST CARES VOLUNTEER WORK DAY

Saturday, April 21, 2018, 8am-2pm
Heritage Village
Native American Cultural Center
249 West 2nd Street
Lockport Illinois, 60441

For the sixth year in a row, Comcast employees will be working with the Midwest SOARRING Foundation members on the Heritage Village property in Lockport, IL. We will assist in land clean-up and preparation for spring, clearing out and preparing areas for sacred planting along with building cleaning and organization.

There is work for all ages and interests and we always have such a great day working on the land together! This event will be rain or shine and will have some outside work. Please check the weather and plan accordingly. Lunch and a t shirt will be provided.

Please register online at:
www.comcastinthecommunity.com/Project/Detail?projectID=9854

Your yard tools and cleaning supplies are welcome.

Thank you,
Joseph Standing Bear
Sharisse Sheridan Project Lead

 

SOARRING POW WOW PHOTOGRAPHY

Friday, April 13, 2018, 6-8pm
ARTIST RECEPTION
Lisle Library
777 Front Street
Lisle, IL. 60532

The Midwest SOARRING Foundation Pow Wow photography exhibit featuring images from Midwest SOARRING Pow Wows will be on display at the Lisle Library from April 5 until May 31st. Through this work, we seek to inspire appreciation for Native American culture alive today.

An artist reception is scheduled for Friday evening, April 13th from 6-8pm. Special guest, Abby Lyons will attend as the Midwest SOARRING Princess. All are welcome.

 

MONTHLY TALKING CIRCLE

Saturday, March 31, 2018 at Noon
Midwest SOARRING Cultural Center

Joseph Standing Bear will lead a talking circle at Noon on March 31, 2018. Doors will open at 11:30AM. Following the talking circle will be a feast. Everyone should bring a dish to pass. Enjoy fellowship during and after the feast. Everyone is invited!

 

SPRING EQUINOX CEREMONY

Tuesday, March 20, 2018 at 11AM
Heritage Village, 2nd and State Street, Lockport, IL 60441

Come celebrate the Spring Equinox with Joseph Standing Bear. He will have a ceremony on Tuesday, March 20 at 11AM. The ceremony will be held at Heritage Village, 2nd and State Street, Lockport, IL 60441. For more info call 773-585-8613 or email soarring@aol.com.

 

OUR FIRST 2018 POW WOW MEETING!

Saturday, March 17, 2018 at 1PM
Midwest SOARRING Cultural Center

EVERYONE is invited. We are ready to take off! We are in need of Area Coordinators for area's such as:

Of course, if you have held one of these positions before, we would love to have you volunteer again! Just please contact us to advise of your commitment by calling 708-257-4300 or email: msfpowwow@aol.com.

If you do not have the time to run an Area, but want to volunteer, please attend the meeting! We would love to hear from you.

Save the date: The 24th Annual Harvest Pow Wow will take place on September 22 and 23, 2018!

 

SECOND SATURDAY

Saturday, March 10, 2018
Midwest SOARRING Cultural Center

Stop by the Cultural Center this Saturday, March 10, as we will be open from 11AM to 3PM. Visit with Joseph Standing Bear and other MSF members and friends. We have some new items for sale, so be sure to browse our gallery. If you make a purchase from a local business that is a member of Lockport's Chamber of Commerce (which SOARRING is..) on the second Saturday of the month, you can submit your purchase to the chamber and get in on this month's raffle prize in celebration of the event called SECOND SATURDAY! Coffee is always available! Looking forward to seeing you there!

For more info call 708-257-4300.

 

SEE THE MOVIE "HOSTILES"

Friday, January 26, 2018
AMC Showplace Naperville 16 Theater

We are planning a trip to see the new movie Hostiles. The show time will be announced by Friday, January 26, 2018.

We will meet at the:

AMC Showplace Naperville 16 Theater
2825 Showplace Drive
Naperville, IL 60564

Everyone will purchase their own tickets.Those interested in going out for pizza or something to eat afterwards, can enjoy a meal together.

Come, let's start the New Year with our first fun activity!

Any questions please call 708.257.4300.

Janet and Joseph

< Previous | Next >

 


Copyright - Midwest SOARRING Foundation