April 2015 Comcast Cares Day
Comcast Cares day held on the grounds of the Midwest SOARRING Native American Cultural Center on Saturday, April 25, 2015 was a great success, despite the intermittent rain. Everyone worked hard to clean up, cut, and burn brush and fallen limbs. All enjoyed a hearty lunch which Comcast supplied all volunteers. Many Comcast employees participated for the first time in a Native American talking circle and were amazed to experience the spiritual context of the talk. Midwest SOARRING Foundation is indebted to Comcast for their continued interest and support.
Black Ash Basket Making with Kelly Church
Black Ash Baskets by Kelly Church
On May 3rd, participants enjoyed a fascinating Black Ash basket making class led by Kelly Church of Odawa heritage. Kelly hails from generations of Black Ash basket makers from Michigan, and is a member of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Nations. As an artist and activist she shares her knowledge of working with Black Ash trees as well as educating the public on the effects of the Emerald Ash Borer on cultural traditions. In the workshop Kelly discussed what is being done to save seeds which will sustain the traditions for future generations. Each participant helped weave a group Black Ash basket.
Naperville Elementary School Around the World Celebration
Midwest SOARRING Foundation participated in the Around The World celebration at May Watts Elementary School in Naperville on May 12, 2015. SOARRING brought their artifacts table with hides, dream catchers, and Native tools which generated much interest and curiosity for the children. Two high school age Native dance performers danced in full regalia on stage to tribal drum music. Their performance was received.
Midwest SOARRING Foundation Photography Exhibit
The Midwest SOARRING Foundation Pow Wow photography exhibit has been on display for the months of April and May at the Wheaton Public Library. It will move to the Eola Branch of the Aurora Public Library for July and August. Librarians are happy to sponsor the exhibit and say library patrons respond positively to the display.
Your Membership Matters
Midwest SOARRING Foundation welcomes your involvement and membership in our organization. To become a member sign up online. Anyone who wants to volunteer at the 2015 Harvest Pow Wow, to be held September 26 & 27, 2015 at the Naper Settlement, please contact 708.257.4300.
Pepsico as New Sponsor at Harvest Pow Wow
Pepsico will be a brand new sponsor at the Midwest SOARRING Harvest Pow Wow this year. Their participation will bring a focus to the green movement with a bottle recycling machine and handbags made from recycled bottles. Learn more about the 2015 Harvest Pow Wow.
