Friends of Native America

Zip Up Your Wallet!...Until You Read This

2011-03-12T20:22:00.016-07:00

Zip Up Your Wallet! ... Until You Read This

Recently a non-profit association called my studio, NativeStock Pictures, to inquire about licensing 3 of my photos for a fund raising campaign. I was honored to assist them yet at the same time I wanted to do a bit of research to find out if they were a reputable foundation. In the past I’d donated funds to them without giving any thought as I had receive a large amount of direct mail that describe conditions of poverty, hunger and despair in Indian country.

So, out of curiosity, I decided to use google and find out what causes these organizations supported on reservations. Besides, I’m asked quite often what Native American cause I can recommend for their donations.

What I found out just might make you zip your wallet shut! Donors need to be wary of a growing number of charities that claim to alleviate poverty in American Indian communities but instead use donated funds to stuff their own coffers.

"There are many, many non-Indian operations that use Indians as a way of garnering revenue," says Jerry Reynolds of the First Nations Development Institute. The number of Indian-themed charities has been increasing steadily over the past 10 years, and the money has been flowing to non-Indian organizations in record amounts.

Charitable organizations are latching on to Native American causes because they are an easy sell. Americans feel guilty about the US government's treatment of Native peoples, and they give money with the intention of correcting history's wrongdoings. These unethical charities exploit the tremendous reservoir of goodwill that exists worldwide for First Nations people.

Locations of most reservations are in America's rural outposts which helps keep shoddy charity programs hidden from scrutiny. American Indian communities are among the nation's poorest, so donated goods and services are usually welcomed regardless of how they are obtained. Any kind of assistance is looked at as very beneficial yet the inner-workings of two-thirds of American charities remain a mystery.

When the Christmas season approaches, charities gear up for a holiday push in fund raising and American households are bombarded with direct mail and telephone solicitations asking them to donate dollars to various causes. But donors should be wary of a growing number of charities that purport to alleviate poverty in Native American communities. Instead they use donated funds to stuff their own stockings.

There are scores of non-Indian operations that use Indians as a way of garnering revenue. These charities exploit the tremendous reservoir of goodwill that exists worldwide for American Indian people.

The inner workings of some Native American charities are a mystery because of federal laws that protect church-related organizations from government meddling. Southwest Indian Foundation is not a church but still doesn't have to make its financial statements available because it was founded by a Catholic priest.

Another charity enjoying similar anonymity is the Don Stewart Foundation, an evangelist group that runs several charities including the Southwest Indian Children's Fund (SWICF). Supposedly the charity works primarily with the Gila River tribe in Arizona, which is an unusual pick for a relief recipient. The tribe is well provided with money after it developed two gaming operations, a golf course and a five-star resort hotel. SWICF representatives in the charity's headquarters admit that only 15 percent of donations go to programs. So, what happens to the other 85 percent?

Although a charity's policies may seem unethical, surprisingly they're not illegal. Tucking money back into charity operations by shifting fund raising overhead costs into program expenditures is a common practice and does not violate any accounting guidelines.

Before selecting a charity to support consider how well it will spend your money. The percentages of donations spent on program services should be 60% or more. Most highly efficient charities are able to spend 75% or more on programs. Watch dog sites, see listed below, can help donors seek out a reputable organization. Charity Ratings indicate a charity's grade based on percent spent on program services and cost to raise $100, which the target is $35 or less. In most watchdog charitable guides each organization is listed with its phone number, financial performance measurement and an overall grade.

Before donors turn a cold shoulder to solicitors that come knocking, they should remember there are plenty of charitable operations doing important and much needed work on reservations.

One of the first things to look for is whether the charity makes outlandish claims about the dire situation of Native peoples. If they're claiming that Indian people and Indian kids are starving or without food, they're probably not legitimate. There's a great deal of dignity on reservations, and a Native American-controlled organization would not be able to retain the support of its constituents by making claims like these. Donors can also weed out charities by looking at the organizations spending habits, which are listed online by charity watchdogs.

In fact, it's precisely because some charities don't serve the interests of Native Americans that bona fide programs need all the more help. There's a tremendous need out there by legitimate programs that are run by Native people and respectful organizations.

NativeStock recommends that you consider donating to a tribe located within your State. Google: Native American tribes along with your state of residence and you will find a list of tribal headquarters and their phone numbers. Call the tribal office and inquire about the tribes museum/cultural center, elderly programs, school/college funds or food drives that are in need of donations. On occasion tribal officials have called NativeStock directly to request silent auction items or specific items like books, school supplies, winter coats and canned foods.

So unzip your wallet and write a check but only after you’ve done your homework and found reputable Native run organizations that can help spread your donations to many worthy projects throughout Indian Country.

Charity Watchdog Groups:

www.GuideStar.org

American Institute of Philanthropy
www.charitywatch.org

National Charities Information Bureau
www.bbb.org/us/Charity-Reviews

My Favorite Organizations:

American Indian College Fund score: A-

Futures for Children score: B+

Native American Rights Fund score: B-

American Indian Tourism Conference

2010-10-30T06:42:00.019-06:00

Photos and Story by Marilyn Angel Wynn/Nativestock.com

Nearly 57 million international travelers are expected to visit the USA in 2011. Why shouldn’t Indian Country locations compete for a slice of the pie with destinations like Disneyland, Las Vegas and Niagara Falls. Tourism brings economic development to many communities, creating new jobs and extra revenue. Through culture, history, recreation and landscapes Native American Tourism has so much to offer guests.

Located in the misty cedar forest along the Pacific Northwest are the homelands of the Tulalip Tribe who hosted the 12^th annual American Indian & Alaska Native Tourism (AIANTA) conference. Over 230 tribal members and travel specialists showed-up to be introduced to Coast Salish culture and hospitality. The AIANTA event was held at Tulalip Casino Resort Hotel and Convention Center, voted as Washington State’s favorite casino.

AIANTA is a nonprofit association of Native American tribes and tribal businesses organized in 1999 to promote Indian Country tourism. The Association is made up of member tribes from six regions: Eastern, Plains, Midwest, Southwest, Pacific Northwest, and Alaska. The purpose of the Association is to serve as the voice and resource for it’s constituents in marketing tourism, providing training and educational resources to Tribal members, and serving as the liaison between Indian Country and governmental and private entities for the development, growth, and sustenance of Indian Country tourism.

The theme of this years AIANTA conference was “Voices and Visions of Indian Country”. Attendees were there to absorb all that was offered like keynote addresses, breakout sessions and mobile workshops. Conference gatherers also spent a good deal of time consulting one-on-one with representatives from government offices of Secretary of State, Federal Parks, Bureau of Indian Affairs and Small Business Association. Evening entertainment included a dessert reception with hip-hop artist Casper, a welcome reception with traditional Coast Salish songs and an after hours Karaoke session.

Visitors to the Tulalip tribe’s exclusive resort are emerged into a pleasing environment that strongly displays Coast Salish culture. Eye-catching artwork of totem poles, wood-carvings, glasswork and well displayed artifacts have been installed everywhere. During a speech, Derrick Jones representing the Yavapai Nation, described the amazing showers as, "the water spraying out from the wall made me feel like a salmon swimming through a strong ocean current.”

Artisan and vendor booths that specialize on Indian Country travel and destinations were set up throughout the hotel's convention area. The Suquamish tribe sponsored an Internet zone available for attendees to stay in contact with associates, clients and family. Small groups converged in quiet sitting areas that offered privacy for extended discussion and exchange contact information in-between break out sessions that ran simultaneously throughout each day.

Next year’s AIANTA conference on American Indian tourism will be hosted by the Yavapai Apache from the Southwest Region in Fountain Hills Arizona. For more information go to www.aianta.org

Native Wisdom Beauty Products

2010-06-22T19:50:00.006-06:00

Story and Photography by Marilyn Angel Wynn

Generally I don't endorse products, especially on my blog. Except for now, I'll make an exception and mention Native Wisdom Beauty. I'm using some of their products and have been delighted to see real results.

Last fall I was in Denver for a family reunion. Through Facebook, I connected with FB friend Jennifer Wolf, a Ponca tribal member and Herbal Research Chemist. At that time my company, Native Stock Pictures, was interested in photographing Native American business owners. She volunteered as her profession was a research chemist who had been employed with the FDA (Food & Drug Administration). She also owned a small home-based business with a line of beauty products.

After we wrapped up our photo shoot, Jennifer gave me a few samples of her skincare products. She placed inside my camera bag a nice sized tin of Honeysuckle Body Butter and a bottle of her Blueberry Body Wash. It wasn't until I flew back home, unpacked when I began using her gifts daily. A few weeks later, I realized how my dry skin was improving. Scented with lovely flowery fragrances, I craved healthy living each time I used the delicious smelling cream or soap.

Jennifer's story is a familiar one today. Even though she had a prestigious career with the FDA, Jennifer dreamed to be a 'stay at home' mom. To financially help with the transition, Jennifer teamed up with her sisters to create Native Wisdom products. "As Native Americans, it was important to us to look to Mother Earth for answers on how to create natural products safe enough for a baby, but exquisite enough for the whole family" explained Wolf. All three sisters agreed to only use the finest potions used by indigenous cultures around the world.

Native Wisdom skincare products are all formulated with ingredients such as acai and blueberry extract, shea butter with honey and chamomile. Basically, anything that is good enough to eat! Native Wisdom Beauty combines traditional indigenous herbalogy with the latest in break-through technology to create sumptuous products. Did I mention my own itchy dry crepe skin? It's starting to take on the look of it's plump youthful self again. After summer, my feet resemble #1 sandpaper and feel like that of a bristle pad. When I started to rub them with Native Wisdom's non-greasy body butter each night I was surprised at the outcome.

You are probably as skeptical as I would be reading this. It's just that these results are for real. The products work. BTW, except for the first gift samples during our photo shoot, I've not received any endorsements what-so-ever! I just think that a wonderful natural product should be shared with other consumers. Another plus is that a portion of online sales benefit the American Indian College Fund.

I'd be interested to know if any of you are already using these fabulous skincare products. Or if you start using any of the lotions or soaps by Native Wisdom then fill me in on your results. I know that I'll be ordering more from Native Wisdom soon.

Children: Keepers of Tradition

2010-05-20T10:31:00.008-06:00

Here's a 5 minute multimedia video titled " Children: Keepers of Tradition" produced by Angel Wynn of NativeStock Pictures.
Native Stock Pictures is now a full service multimedia provider. Using colorful Native American Indian photographs and stock footage with quality sound to create short productions for websites, business and education needs. "Because of recent web content demands and my original background in the film industry," comments Wynn, "it's a real natural to produce programs using stock photos and footage from my archives."
NativeStock's specialty niche is documenting America's First Nations. NativeStock's summer shooting schedule has a heavy lineup of events that include traditions, demonstrations, languages and more. Share your ideas and suggestions with Wynn by contacting her at angel@nativestock.com. In the meantime, enjoy this latest slide show "Children: Keepers of Tradition."

VIEW VIDEO HERE:

The Rainbow Boy

2010-03-07T10:30:00.015-07:00

Here's a film project that I feel and care deeply about. I'm a backer and hope that you will donate a little something too once you watch this trailer.

THE RAINBOW BOY MOVIE INTRO TRAILER

Norman Patrick Brown is an independent Navajo filmmaker making a movie about his people with a universal message about the human relationship to Mother Earth. What began as a "short video story" has blossomed into an independent feature film with inspiring acting performances by new Navajo actors, and wonderful technical production values. This movie is a co-production between Brown's company REZWOOD ENTERTAINMENT and 220-PRODUCTIONS.

With your help we can make this feature film a reality. I hope you will join me in contributing to THE RAINBOW BOY film project. Donations start at $15. If you make one for $25 then you will receive a film credit. For a $50 or more donation you will receive a DVD, location tours and much more, depending on how high you contribute.

The Rainbow Boy is an allegorical tale about the consequences of loss of culture and human devastation of planet earth. The story tells about an ancient Navajo warrior, Eagle Catcher, who enters a sacred cave despite an ancient prophecy that warns against entering the cave. Eagle Catcher is transported to the future, which is our own present day USA, where he sees and lives the prophetic devastation of modern humans. His arrival profoundly affects young Ozzie Yazzie, a modern Navajo punk kid struggling to understand his own identity and culture.

As of March 2010, there are five more days of principle photography to be completed, which includes locations in Gallup, New Mexico and the Navajo Nation. Funds derived through Kickstarter will pay for the final five days, and also go towards the final editing and completion of the original score and soundtrack of The Rainbow Boy.

The goal of the producers of THE RAINBOW BOY is to seek and acquire distribution for the International European and American audiences. As of this writing the film has one American and two international distribution companies interested in distributing THE RAINBOW BOY, but first the producers must finish the film. The movie will be premiered in the five different agencies of the Navajo Nation, and Gallup, New Mexico. Other plans include a grassroots tour of Europe, Native American communities, and film festivals.

2010 Census Important For Native Americans

2010-02-06T17:54:00.008-07:00

WHY THE 2010 CENSUS IS IMPORTANT TO ALL AMERICAN INDIANS

Photographs by:

Marilyn Angel Wynn / Nativestock.com

Should I Identify as Native American in the 2010 Census?

Any US citizen can. Even if you are of another race.

It is absolutely critical that all “non-enrolled” Native Americans, and those people that can prove lineal descent from a Native American ancestor, self-identify as “Native American in Combination with One or More Races” when completing their 2010 Census questionnaires! Get the message out – pass this along to your family members and other Indian friends.

Results of the 2000 Census
For the first time ever, the 2000 Census measured “Native Americans in Combination with One or More Races,” That number totaled 4,119,301. The number of Americans that reported themselves “Native Alone” was 2,475,956 (these are considered predominantly enrolled members of a federally recognized tribe. The difference between these two numbers equals 1,643,345. This is significant because this 1,643,345 represents the number of persons that self-identified as “mixed-blood”

It must be pointed out that the 2000 Census was “flawed” - in that it did not provide a method to distinguish what percentage of the 1,643,345 were enrolled members of a federally recognized Indian tribe that chose to identify using this category only. However, it is generally accepted that the vast majority of these (perhaps exceeding 90%) are “non-enrolled” members of a federally recognized Indian tribe.

Many of them are likely to be direct lineal descendents of an “enrolled” member that do not qualify under tribal membership policies that impose a “Content of Degree of Indian Blood” (CDIB) requirement, yet they feel strongly tied to their Indian ancestral heritage. (Example: The great-grandchildren of a ‘full-blood’ Indian will not meet a 25% CDIB).

The 2010 Census will correct this flaw to obtain accurate measures. This is due to the importance these numbers have related to funding formulas directly linked to the federally recognized tribes.

Reasons for Self-Identifying as Mixed Blood Indian in 2010
There are several reasons why “non-enrolled” Native Americans, and those people that can prove lineal descent from a Native American ancestor, should self-identify as Mixed Blood Indians:

1. The 2010 Census can accurately enumerate the number of mixed blood Indians in America that still feel strongly linked to their Native American ancestry.

2. It can be used as an indicator that identifies “unmet need” for the Native American population that is “not served” or “underserved.”

How will this benefit Mixed Blood Indians in the United States? The Census is the single most important event in America that drives all Federal “Formula” and “Need-Based” funding decisions for the next 10-year period. Mixed bloods must not miss this opportunity to document the need! Various American Indian organizations will use these Census 2010 figures over the next 10 years to apply for charitable services and grant programs to meet the needs of non-enrolled Mixed blood Indians. While most federal dollars are earmarked only for use by ‘federally recognized’ tribes – there remains millions of dollars that are “set-aside” to serve Native American Indians that live off reservations. These funding opportunities are made available to “organizations that serve Native Americans.”

· Housing, housing assistance, and homeless programs.
· Education and education assistance projects.
· Economic assistance and employment assistance programs.
· Scholarly cultural and heritage research about the Metis Nation.
· Health and wellness, substance abuse, and social justice funding.
· Financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and business financing loans.

IT ALL BEGINS WITH THE 2010 CENSUS

· Identify as Native American in Combination with One or More Races
· Get the word out quickly – pass this website link along

PLEASE SIGN OUR PETITIONS:
www.thepetitionsite.com/1/help-stop-native-american-discrimination
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/federal-recognition-for-chickamauga-cherokee-indian-creek-band

http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/cherokeeheritageNA?e

Photography: ©Nativestock.com/Marilyn Angel Wynn

Origins of Native American Beadwork

2010-01-09T20:58:00.005-07:00

Before contact with European civilization, Native Americans were making beautiful objects decorated with natural materials obtained from their own area or through trade. Trade routes crossed the Americas and extended to the Caribbean Islands, giving access to a variety of material: shell, metals, semi-precious stones, bone, ivory, porcupine quills and feathers, to name some of the most common trade items. Beads, painstakingly made from bone and shell, had many uses including breastplates and wampum.

The arrival of explorers and traders from Europe changed the materials Native Americans used, as well as influencing traditional patterns. The Spanish, English, Dutch and French offered glass beads as gifts and used as currency in trade. Native Americans quickly adopted the new material, incorporating glass beads into traditional patterns. Although the first traders offered the finest beads they could get, including amber, glass and faceted chevron beads, soon the Native Americans were asking for beads in specific materials, colors and shapes.

Most of these early beads came from the glass factories of Murano near Venice Italy and a few came from France and the Netherlands. Venetian beads had softer colors than the brighter glass beads made in Bohemia (Czech Republic) that were introduced to the American Indians in the 19th Century. Both the new colors and the more uniform size of the Czech beads appealed to Native American beaders. This resulted in a decline in the use of Venetian beads.

Because the dominant European culture and religion discouraged traditional practices and beliefs, Native Americans began to incorporate traditional concepts into their beadwork. For example, Arctic tribes transformed tattoo patterns into elaborately beaded parkas; Northeast tribes replicated their wampum designs; across the Great Plains certain colors and patterns came to have significant meanings.

As glass beads spread across North America, each tribe used them to express their own patterns and traditions. Today, bead artists borrow beading techniques and patterns from each other. Many create new beadwork patterns based on tribal culture and traditions. Many examples of old style beadwork can be found in museums. While many contemporary designs can be found on ceremonial regalia adorned on traditional dancers attending pow wows today.

Photography by: Marilyn Angel Wynn/Nativestock.com

Happy New Year

2009-12-31T12:34:00.001-07:00

Sacred Season Greetings

2009-12-24T21:35:00.001-07:00

Wanted: Native Models, Arizona

2009-12-19T22:52:00.006-07:00

Photographer in Arizona hiring Native Americans to model for various photo shoots.

Photos of traditional and contemporary models previously hired by Nativestock Pictures

For the winter season I'm moving the Nativestock Pictures office and studio to Arizona. In the next few months (January, February and March) I'll be hiring Native American models. There's no experience neccesary. If you are interested then kindly contact Angel Wynn by sending a comment with this blog or you can email her directly at angel@nativestock.com. A current photo of model is appreciated.

Here is a list of some of the scenarios being planned so far:

Ages 19-29, slender or athletic and outgoing: Eagle Dancer, Hoop Dancer, Man and Woman as Couple, Native Flute Player
Family of Four: Mother, Father, sister, brother (children ages 6 thru 13)
Pottery maker from molding clay, firing and painting.
Traditional Storyteller (elder preferred) in coyote cape or similar outfit, rattle or drum with small group of 2-4 children
Any large wind powered turbines with one parent and child or grandparent and child
Historic Native re-enactors on horseback
Other suggestions will be appreciated

More Model Photos from Previous Shoots:

All photos by ©Nativestock.com/Marilyn Angel Wynn

First Thanksgiving in the New World

2009-11-25T09:04:00.005-07:00

First Thanksgiving In The New World

The Pilgrims were not in good shape. Nearly half died their first brutal winter. They were without survival skills, lived in dirt covered shelters and there was a shortage of food. They needed help.

The Powhatan Indians brought food to the Pilgrims of Jamestown Colony, located in today's state of Virginia. The indigenous people taught the newcomer's how to hunt, farm the land and shared their ancestral knowledge of medicinal plants. They were also taught to preserve berries, teas and other foods to help them through the cold winter months.

Harvest was a time of sharing. Together, the Wampanoag Indians and the English Pilgrims of Plymouth Colony (what we now know as Plymouth Massachusetts) celebrated the year's bountiful harvest with a feast. Today Americans continue to give thanks through a day of feasting with family and friends.

The First Thanksgiving in the New World.

photos by: ©Marilyn Angel Wynn/Nativestock.com

Home Decorating with Native American Style

2009-11-21T21:16:00.008-07:00

Photography by: ©Marilyn Angel Wynn/Nativestock.com

Do you like earth tone colors and Native American style products? Are you considering decorating your home with these items and patterns? Or is your home decor already there? Using Native American Style decor is a great way to help add a sense of peace and harmony to your home while also helping to keep the Native American culture alive. It will transform your house into a sanctuary where you can feel relaxed and at peace. Some of the Native American décor items are simply stunning and can’t be matched by anything else. Most of these designs use the basic colors red, brown, black, green and yellow for the items made.

Many Native American cultures and tribes sell their hand crafted items to make money for the reservation and to help share their culture with the rest of the world. For many, this is the only way to keep their traditions and hand-created artisan items alive in today’s society. Collectable items that truly identify with a specific tribe are Navajo rugs, Northwest cedar carvings and Santa Clara pottery.

From taking many trips throughout Indian Country, I've accumulated hundreds of one-of-a-kind American Indian objects from artifacts to contemporary artwork. Finding places to display the items is my biggest challenge. Keeping clutter down is key to any decorating style. Use enclosed shelf units with glass front doors and hang artifacts on interior walls. This will help with storage and add to the charm of Native culture in your home. Many of my beadwork pieces that are large are placed inside shadow box frames and displayed on walls.

Bold ethnic patterns for sofas and drapes can become too busy. After living with them for awhile can become tiring with too many busy designs. Living room furniture looks best if covered in leather. Instead of drapes windows are covered with woven reed blinds or wood shades. Fabric with tribal designs should be used as accent items such as throw pillows, bedding, place mats, candles and towels. One of my favorite items to decorate with are Pendleton blankets draped over a leather chair or used as a bedspread.

You can find great Native American themed décor items at cultural centers, Native American art shows, directly through artists and even on ebay. Visiting the online gallery at Nativestock Pictures, you can find photographic wall art that represents a little of the mystery found in Native American culture. Simple items can make a big difference in any room.

Framed photographic prints and canvas giclees of well known artwork help fill up large wall space. Frames look best if a victorian style wood or rustic antique frame is used to display the artwork. Antique sepia prints, colorful photographs or litho prints of days gone past can put you in a trance while looking at them. Remember, artwork should resonate and move you personally.

There are many sculptures available that can simply take your breath away when you see them. These are great pieces of art that details everything so perfectly. Bronze sculptures not only look beautiful but they will have a meaningful story that is part of the design. I prefer statues of warriors on horses or wooden carvings of busts to add character to a room. In a corner of my dining there's a full length warbonnet made with imitation eagle feathers displayed on a stand.

Learning about Native American style décor is just as exciting as redecorating your home a few fine pieces. The items all have a special meaning that has an interesting story to tell. This makes this type of décor even more stimulating. You can enjoy sharing the history, story and culture behind each of your Native American pieces with visitors that come to your home. My home? I call it "19th Century Trading Post".

Indian arts of basketry, pottery, blanket weaving, rug making for collecting
Drums, sculpture, dream catchers, masks and rattles add mystery
Indian and Kachina dolls, beadwork, blankets, jewelry and clothing add a woman's touch
Buffalo skulls, bones, and longhorns bleached by the desert sun
Animal hides, stone carvings, arrowheads, bow and arrows for the male

Photography by: ©Marilyn Angel Wynn/Nativestock.com

Sedona Sweatlodge Deaths

2009-10-24T11:14:00.005-06:00

For the past week I've received numerous calls from friends and clients regarding the recent deaths of the 3 people involved using a sweatlodge at a spiritual retreat in Sedona Arizona. I'm sure you've heard or read about this news by now.

First of all, the operation was commercially run. These people paid $9,000 each to be part of a weekend called "Spiritual Warrior" run by self made spiritual guru, millionaire and non-native James Ray.

Native American people do not charge for sweatlodges. You have to be invited by a tribal member before you can partake of the sweat. Throughout all my time traveling through Indian Country, I've been invited twice and have only participated in one sweat along with seven female tribal members of the Crow Nation. Of course there was no charge.

Of all the dozens of constructed sweat houses that I've come across and photographed, I've never seen as large a one used that is 415 square feet and holds 50 people! The general size of a REAL Native American sweatlodge would hold between 4-10 men or women, depending on size of structure and participants. Also, sweatlodge ceremonies are not of mixed sexes. Men most commonly will sweat first and then afterwards, while the rocks are still hot, the women will have their own time inside. Obviously I'm not a sweatlodge enthusiast. But 2 hours inside the dome-shaped sauna with no breaks or water? The number 4 is very sacred to all tribes and the ceremonies are broken up into 4 sessions so you can remain inside the sweat or come out to drink or drench yourself with water. Or, like my ladies group of sweatlodge participants, have a cigarette.

Sedona Arizona is the laughing stock of spiritual guru hopefuls who make considerable incomes by offering bogus American Indian ceremonies. How come when white's get involved with anything that may help others it's always centered around greed and money? Especially in the spiritual arena that tends to offer non-tangible products.

Ray's recent postings on his Twitter account said he was "shocked and saddened" by the tragedy.
"My deep heartfelt condolences to family and friends of those who lost their lives," he wrote. "I am spending the weekend in prayer and meditation for all involved in this difficult time; and I ask you to join me in doing the same." Great words for a self centered guru trying to cover his ass.

Ray claims to help people achieve both spiritual and financial wealth through his corporation called Harmonic Wealth®. His wisdom and promise is that after one of his retreats "You simply will make more money and become more successful" and "will double, triple, even multiply by ten the size of your business."

One promise of Ray's that was made absolutely true on October 9th was "My five-day "Spiritual Warrior" retreat promises to "absolutely change your life." It did change the lives of three people including their families.

Photos courtesy of Nativestock Pictures

Winners: 2009 Native American Music Awards

2009-10-07T20:47:00.007-06:00

ELEVENTH ANNUAL
NATIVE AMERICAN MUSIC AWARDS
2009

Photo By: ©Marilyn Angel Wynn/Nativestock.com

WINNERS

Listen To Winning Songs and Artists

ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Jan Michael Looking Wolf
The Looking Wolf Project

BEST BLUES RECORDING
Dancing In The Rain
Graywolf Blues Band

BEST COMPILATION RECORDING
Bitter Tears Sacred Ground
Joanne Shenandoah & Michael Bucher

BEST COUNTRY RECORDING
Life Is Calling My Name
Shane Yellowbird

DEBUT ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Skylar Wolf
Devil’s Son

DEBUT DUO / GROUP OF THE YEAR
Will & Lil Jess
Reservation Nights

BEST FEMALE ARTIST
Joy Harjo
Winding Through The Milky Way

BEST FOLK RECORDING
Four Wolves Prophecy
Atsiaktonkie

FLUTIST OF THE YEAR
JJ Kent
Ta Te’ Topa Win

BEST GOSPEL/INSPIRATIONAL RECORDING
Amazing Grace
Lenape Spirits
Wind Spirit Drum

GROUP OF THE YEAR
Brule’
Lakota Piano II

BEST HISTORICAL RECORDING
Native Pride
Thunder Hawk Singers

BEST INSTRUMENTAL RECORDING
Tango!
Gabriel Ayala

BEST MALE ARTIST
Bryan Akipa
Songs From The Black Hills

BEST NATIVE AMERICAN CHURCH RECORDING
Peyote Ways
Primeaux & Mike

BEST NEW AGE RECORDING
Deep Within
Tony Redhouse

BEST POP RECORDING
Na Unu Nahai (Shape Shifter)
Apryl Allen

BEST POW WOW RECORDING
Band of Brothers
Midnite Express

BEST PRODUCER
Kelly Parker
Out Of The Blue

BEST RAP / HIP HOP RECORDING
All Day All Night
Rezhogs

RECORD OF THE YEAR
Earth Gift
Kevin Locke

BEST ROCK RECORDING
Sirensong
Eagle & Hawk

SONG/SINGLE OF THE YEAR
A Change Is Gonna Come
Jana Mashonee

SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR
Samantha Crain
The Confiscation: A Musical Novella

BEST SPOKEN WORD RECORDING
The Great Story From The Sacred Book
Rain Song/Terry & Darlene Wildman

BEST TRADITIONAL RECORDING
It Is A New Day
Oshkii Giizhik Singers

BEST VIDEO
Movin On
Charly Lowry & Aaron Locklear

BEST WORLD MUSIC RECORDING
Ceremony
Michael Searching Bear

NATIVE HEART
Michael Brant DeMaria
Siyotanka

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT
Stevie Salas

LIVING LEGEND
Tommy Allsup

HALL OF FAME
Ritchie Valens

Listen To Winning Songs and Artists

BlogTalk Radio Link

2009-10-04T08:38:00.005-06:00

with Judy Lopez Tonight!

Call-in Number: (347) 215-8333

Upcoming Show: 10/4/2009 7:00 PM

(6 PM Pacific/9 PM Eastern)

BLOGTALK RADIO LINK TO INTERVIEW

Host Name:	Judy Lopez
Show Name:	Marilyn Angel Wynn - Native Stock Pictures
Length:	1 hr
Description: h:9752 s:720693	Indian Country Traveler and leading supplier of Native American stock pictures to the who's who in publishing. Collection of over 150,000 images of tribal homelands, the people, ancient artifacts, traditional ceremonies and more. Represented by agency giants such as Corbis, Getty, DanitaDelimont, PhotoEdit and more. Wholesale and retail of gallery prints and Native American postcards Marilyn Angel Wynn’s Specialties: The world's leading supplier of Native American Indian imagery with a collection of over 150,000 images. Passionate about indigenous culture and promotes cultural tourism through stories, features, blogs and of course photography. Both traditional and contemporary lifestyles are documented. Free photo research, available for assignments, professional photo/story packages. Author of photo-book "Voice of the Spirit: Words of Wisdom From Indian Country USA" available at Amazon.com Freelance photographer specializing in Native American stock imagery from Indian Country USA. Added new this year are world Indigenous cultures such as the New Zealand Maori, Meso America's Maya and Canada's Northwest Coast tribes.

Radio Interview

2009-10-02T09:11:00.003-06:00

Judy Lopez of BlogTalk Radio will be interviewing photographer Marilyn Angel Wynn who specializes in Native American Indian Culture. The program will be live on Sunday evening October 4th at 7PM Mountain Time, 6PM Pacific and 9PM Eastern Standard time. Hope you can join us. You will also be able to call in with your questions.
This is a Podcast so you will also be able to access the interview afterwards at any time or day.

Native American Music Awards

2009-10-01T20:44:00.004-06:00

©Marilyn Angel Wynn/Nativestock.com

After tomorrow night we will know the winners of the Native American Music Awards. The winners for this year will be posted on this blog after the event that will be held in Niagara Falls, NY.

Nominees Announced for Native American Music Awards

2009-09-11T10:19:00.008-06:00

Nominees Announced for the Eleventh Annual

Native American Music Awards (NAMA)
To Be Held On October 3rd, 2009
In Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls Photo by ©Marilyn Angel Wynn/Nativestock.com

A. ARTIST OF THE YEAR
1. Arvel Bird Tribal Music Suite, Journey of a Paiute (Southern Paiute)
2. Jan Michael Looking Wolf The Looking Wolf Project (Kalapuya – Grand Ronde Tribes)
3. Jana Mashonee New Moon Born (Lumbee)
4. Jim Boyd Harley High (Colville Confederated Tribes)
5. Kevin Locke Earth Gift (Lakota/Hunkpapa Sioux & Anishinaabe)
6. Tony Redhouse Deep Within (Dine)

B. BEST BLUES RECORDING
1. Dancing In The Rain Graywolf Blues Band (Intertribal)
2. Devil’s Son Skylar Wolf (Navajo)
3. Having A Good Time Now Pappy Johns Band (Iroquois)
4. I Don’t Play By The Rules Gary Small & the Coyote Bros (Northern Cheyenne)
5. I’ve Been Driftin From Door to Door Jimmy Wolf (Mohawk)

C BEST COMPILATION RECORDING
1. Bitter Tears Sacred Ground Joanne Shenandoah & Michael Bucher (Oneida/Cherokee)
2. Clear Water Reflections Various Artists (Ute/N Cheyenne/Lakota/Huichol/Ojibwe)
3. Come To Me Great Mystery Various Artists (Intertribal)
4. First Light Golana (Cherokee)
5. NBA Vol 1 JSK Presents (Warm Springs/Wasco/Modoc)
6. Sacred Place Mary Youngblood (Seminole/Aleut)

D BEST COUNTRY RECORDING
1. Live At Totah Theater Desert West (Navajo)
2. Life Aint Hard Ray St Germain (Metis)
3. Out of the Blue Out of the Blue (Cree)
4. Rattle Snake Bruce Hamana (Hopi)
5. Life Is Calling My Name Shane Yellowbird (Cree)

E DEBUT ARTIST OF THE YEAR
1. Apryl Allen Na Unu Nahai (Shape Shifter) (Comanche)
2. Benjamin Grimes Truth (Dine)
3. Dawn Avery Tulpe (Mohawk Haudenosaunee)
4. Jace Martin Jace Martin (Mohawk)
5. Samantha Crain The Confiscation: A Musical Novella (Choctaw)
6. Skylar Wolf Devil’s Son (Navajo)

F DEBUT DUO OR GROUP OF THE YEAR
1. Desert West Live At Totah Theater (Navajo)
2. Jimmy Shendo & Moiety Walking The Life Road (Jemez Pueblo)
3. Lietsoiitah Ye’ii Bi Cheii Singers Lietsoiitah Ye’ii Bi Cheii (Navajo)
4. Out of the Blue Out of the Blue (Cree)
5. Red Hand/White Hand Soothing Spirits (Apache)
6. Will & Lil Jess Reservation Nights (Oglala Lakota)

G BEST FEMALE ARTIST
1. Annie Humphrey-Jimenez The Sound of Ribbons (Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe)
2. Jackie Tice Morningsky Drum Song (Cherokee)
3. Joanne Shenandoah Bitter Tears Sacred Ground (Oneida/Cherokee)
4. Joy Harjo Winding Through The Milky Way (Muskogee)
5. Tagaq Auk/Blood (Inuit)
6. Tinesha Begaye Night of The Northern Lights (Dine’ Navajo)

H BEST FOLK RECORDING
1. Christmas On Turtle Island Jonathon Maracle (Mohawk)
2. Four Wolves Prophecy Atsiaktonkie (St Regis Mohawk)
3. Ink Blots and Random Thoughts Tonemah (Kiowa/Comanche/Tuscarora)
4. Papago Warrior P-dub Style Papago Warrior (Tohono O’odham)
5. The Confiscation: A Musical Novella Samantha Crain (Choctaw)
6. The Sound of Ribbons Annie Humphrey-Jimenez (Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe)

I FLUTIST OF THE YEAR
1. Bryan Akipa Songs From The Black Hills (Dakota Sioux)
2. Douglas Blue Feather Sacred Space (Cherokee)
3. JJ Kent Ta Te’ Topa Win (Lakota)
4. Kevin Locke Earth Gift (Lakota/Hunkpapa Sioux & Anishinaabe)
5. Mary Youngblood Sacred Place (Seminole/Aleut)
6. R. Carlos Nakai Talisman (Navajo Dine’)

J BEST GOSPEL/INSPIRATIONAL RECORDING
1. Amazing Grace Lenape Spirits (Cherokee/Mic Mac/Lenape)
2. For Our Future Cherokee National Youth Choir (Cherokee)
3. Hand of Jesus Yvonne St. Germaine (Cree)
4. Old Country Church Darrell “Boots” McCallum (Cree)
5. The Father’s Dance Broken Walls (Mohawk)
6. The Great Story From The Sacred Book Rain Song/Terry & Darlene Wildman (Ojibwe/Yaqui)

K DUO OR GROUP OF THE YEAR
1. Black Lodge Spo Mo Tiin Nan (Blackfeet)
2. Brule’ Lakota Piano II (Lower Brule’ Sioux)
3. Eagle & Hawk Sirensong (Ojibway)
4. Primeaux & Mike Peyote Ways (Sioux/Navajo)
5. Rezhogs All Day All Night (Yakama)
6. Tha Tribe Tha Quiet Storm (Navajo/Menominee / Assinaboine/Pima)

L BEST HISTORICAL RECORDING
1. Blackfeet Legends of Glacier National Park Jack Gladstone (Blackfeet)
2. For The Love of Music Wabs Whitebird (Paq’tn Kek)
3. For Our Future Cherokee National Youth Choir (Cherokee)
4. Molly of the Mohawks Augusta Cecconi Bates (Willow Wind)
5. Native Pride Thunder Hawk Singers (Micmaq/Cree)
6. The Cheyenne Dog Soldiers Red Hawk (United Cherokee)

M BEST INSTRUMENTAL RECORDING
1. Dusk To Dawn – Gvwi (Cherokee)
2. Something About The Awakening (Dine)
3. Tango! Gabriel Ayala (Yaqui)
4. The Looking Wolf Project Jan Michael Looking Wolf (Kalapuya – Grand Ronde Tribes)
5. Warriors Last Breath Mike Serna (Apache/Gabrileno)
6. Works By Jerod Impichchaachaaha’ Tate Jerod Tate & San Francisco Symphony & Chorus (Chickasaw)

N BEST MALE ARTIST
1. Bryan Akipa Songs From The Black Hills (Dakota Sioux)
2. Eli Secody Sunrise Love – Happiness with Wifey Over Coffee (Navajo)
3. Gabriel Ayala Portraits (Yaqui)
4. Golana First Light (Cherokee)
5. JJ Kent Ta Te’ Topa Win (Lakota)
6. Michael Bucher Bitter Tears Sacred Ground (Oneida/Cherokee)

O. BEST NATIVE AMERICAN CHURCH RECORDING
1. Faith Kevin Yazzie (Navajo Dine’)
2. Humbly We Pray Delbert Blackhorse (Navajo)
3. Peyote Ways Primeaux & Mike (Sioux/Navajo)
4. Songs of Strength & Beauty Monroe/ByJoe/Turtle/Egawa (Navajo/S Cheyenne/Lummi)
5. The Gift of Life Nikki Begay (Navajo)
6. Thoughts & Prayers Maxine & Guy Tishie (Navajo)

P BEST NEW AGE RECORDING
1. Deep Within Tony Redhouse (Dine)
2. Generations Brian Hammill (HoChunk)
3. Lakota Piano II Brule’ (Lower Brule’ Sioux)
4. Sacred Space Douglas Blue Feather (Cherokee)
5. Songs From The Black Hills Bryan Akipa (Dakota Sioux)
6. Talisman R. Carlos Nakai (Navajo Dine’)

Q BEST POP RECORDING
1. A Change Is Gonna Come Jana Mashonee (Lumbee)
2. Anywhere Leanne Goose (Dene/Inuvialuit)
3. Jace Martin Jace Martin (Mohawk)
4. Na Unu Nahai (Shape Shifter) Apryl Allen (Comanche)
5. No Rez—Ervations Matthew S. Montour (Mohawk-Kahnawake)
6. To Walk In Beauty Spirit Wing (Munsee)

R BEST POW WOW RECORDING
1. Band of Brothers Midnite Express (Ojibway, Sioux, Menominee, Ho-Chunk, Taos Pueblo, Algonquin)
2. Bring Your Feathers In Black Stone (Cree)
3. Faith, Loyalty & Love Youngbird (Pawnee)
4. November Winds Northern Wind (Ojibway)
5. Red Rock Northern Cree (Cree)
6. Spo Mo Tiin Nan Black Lodge (Blackfeet)

S BEST PRODUCER
1. Charles Button & Will Clipman Here & Now
2. Eddie Weber Songs of Strength & Beauty
3. Kelly Parker Out Of The Blue
4. Robert Doyle Talisman
5. Stevie Salas Be What It Is
6. Wolf’s Robe aka Flute Man Ancient Dreams

T BEST RAP / HIP HOP RECORDING
1. All Day All Night Rezhogs (Yakama)
2. The Backside Chase Manhattan (Muscogee Creek, Ojibwe)
3. Native Anthem (Yall Aint Know) Sandy & Chris Hunt, Kash Kow, Lou Nice, Chief, Stoney Creek, Charly Lowry, Aaron Locklear
4. Bluelight Quese Imc (Pawnee/Seminole)
5. The World & Everything In It Team Rezofficial (Cree)
6. Talisman Wasted Talent N8 (Yakama)

U RECORD OF THE YEAR
1. Bitter Tears Sacred Ground Joanne Shenandoah Michael Bucher (Oneida/Cherokee)
2. Earth Gift Kevin Locke (Lakota/Hunkpapa & Anishinaabe)
3. Na Unu Nahai (Shape Shifter) Apryl Allen (Comanche)
4. Songs From The Black Hills Bryan Akipa (Dakota Sioux)
5. Songs of the Navajo James Peshlaka (Navajo)
6. The Looking Wolf Project Jan Michael Looking Wolf (Kalapuya)

V BEST ROCK RECORDING
1. Be What It Is Stevie Salas (Apache)
2. Harley High Jim Boyd (Colville Confedeated Tribes)
3. Just Another Show Tritt Smith (Navajo)
4. Sirensong Eagle & Hawk (Ojibway)
5. Trial By Design Thirtyseven featuring Gregg Analla (Isleta/Laguna Pueblo)
6. Walking The Life Road Jimmy Shendo & Moiety (Jemez Pueblo)

W SONG/SINGLE OF THE YEAR
1. A Change Is Gonna Come Jana Mashonee & Derek Miller (Lumbee)
2. Indian Reservation Michael Searching Bear (Cherokee)
3. Native Americana Keith Secola (Ojibway/Anishnabe)
4. Na Unu Nahai (Shape Shifter) Apryl Allen (Comanche)
5. Riding Free Joanne Shenandoah (Oneida)
6. Witchi Tai To – Joy Harjo (Muskoke)

X SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR
1. Chris Tomes & John Lone Eagle Soothing Spirits (Apache)
2. Darryl Tonemah Ink Blots and Random Thoughts (Kiowa/Comanche/Tuscarora)
3. Jace Martin Jace Martin (Mohawk)
4. Gary Small I Don’t Play By The Rules (Northern Cheyenne)
5. Kris DeLorenzi & Jonathan Maracle The Father’s Dance
6. Samantha Crain The Confiscation: A Musical Novella (Choctaw)

Y BEST SPOKEN WORD RECORDING
1. Gift of the Grandchildren Mac Lopez & Grandaughter Kendra Muro (Shoshone/Cherokee)
2. Now Is The Time Sapokniona Whitefeather (Apache)
3. Songs of the Navajo James Peshlaka (Navajo)
4. The Great Story From The Sacred Book Rain Song/Terry & Darlene Wildman (Ojibwe/Yaqui)
5. The Story Tellers Ancient Wisdom (Abnaki)
6. These Were Their Words Red Hawk (United Cherokee)

Z BEST TRADITIONAL RECORDING
1. It Is A New Day Oshkii Giizhik Singers (Intertribal)
2. Kontiwennenháwi(Carriers of Words) Ratirista Kehronon – Skywalkers (Awkesasne Mohawk)
3. Lenape Spirits Wind Spirit Drum (Cherokee/Mic Mac/Lenape)
4. Lietsoiitah Ye’ii Bi Cheii Lietsoiitah Ye’ii Bi Cheii Singers (Navajo)
5. Okeymow Maskiki II Shanise (Cree)
6. Traditional Shoe Game Songs Porcupine Singers (Navajo)

AA BEST SHORT OR LONG FORM MUSIC VIDEO
1. A Change Is Gonna Come Jana Mashonee (Lumbee)
2. Don’t Forget About Me Michael Bucher (Cherokee)
3. I Am Donna Kay (Mètis)
4. Movin On Charly Lowry/Aaron Locklear (Lumbee)
5. Life Is Calling My Name Shane Yellowbird (Cree)
6. The Legend of Tillamook’s Gold Jan Michael Looking Wolf & Floyd Westerman

BB BEST WORLD MUSIC RECORDING
1. Allegro Gabriel Ayala (Yoeme)
2. Ceremony Michael Searching Bear (Cherokee)
3. Portraits Gabriel Ayala (Yaqui)
4. Tango! Gabriel Ayala (Yoeme)
5. Tribal Music Suite, Journey of a Paiute Arvel Bird (Southern Paiute)
6. Winding Through The Milky Way Joy Harjo (Muskoke)

CC NATIVE HEART (Non-Native Artist)
1. Gary F. Leatham Resonance Ancient Sounds
2. Colby Thomas Colby Thomas Sings Molly Brant
3. Jan Seiden Memory Of Time
4. Jonny Lipford Cross Roads: The Beginning of a Brand New Day
5. Michael Brant DeMaria Siyotanka
6. Scott Tweedie Seeking Vision

Maine Indian Scalps Offered On Craigslist

2009-09-04T07:07:00.010-06:00

Just when we feel that American's horrifyingly wicked history has been somewhat smoothed over is when we have some complete idiot remind us of our true heritage. As Friends of Native America group, I feel that you need to hear this Associated Press release that was published in the latest Cherokee Phoenix newspaper. The American Indian Wars are still taking place today, but without bullets. Let's hope that this seller called Whitely Bradford is found, tried and penalized!

'Maine Indian scalps' offered on Craigslist

By The Associated Press

PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — The FBI is investigating craigslist.com posts selling "Maine Indian scalps" to "white people only" after the leader of the Penobscot Indian Nation reported the matter to state and federal officials.

The Portland Press Herald reports the postings discussed six scalps and related artifacts obtained by bounty hunters in the 1700s and came from a private family collection.

The posts, no longer accessible, included a Maine cell phone number and the name, "Whitely Bradford." The phone was not accepting calls.

Federal investigators and Penobscot leaders have proceeded under the assumption that the scalps are legitimate. Penobscot Chief Kirk Francis says it's a hard time for the tribe to look back on, and to be reminded of it so blatantly — and then see someone profit from it — doesn't sit well.

Smithsonian Institute's Between Fences Museum Exhibit

2009-09-01T21:19:00.015-06:00

Photography Courtesy of ©Nativestock Pictures

Communities across America will be hosts to the Smithsonian's traveling exhibit "Between Fences" as a part of the institutes Museum on Main Street series.

We live between fences. We may hardly notice them, but they are dominant features in our lives and in our history. Thousands of types have been invented, millions of miles have been produced, and countless rivals have seized post, rail, panel, and wire to stake their claims. In 1871, the Department of Agriculture estimated the total value of fences in the United States at 1.7 billion, a sum almost equal to the national debt. Our past is defined by the cutting point of barbed steel and the staccato rhythm of the white picket. Built of hedge, concrete, wood and metal, the fence skirts our properties and is central to the American landscape.

One of these hosting sites in Idaho will be the Ketchum Community Library who will be featuring an assortment of speakers. One presentation in particular, titled "Red Earth, White Fences" is a multimedia slide show by award winning photographer Angel Wynn. Documenting Native American communities is her passion and business. Wynn's focus is to reveal how fencing the west nearly destroyed America's First Nations and how tribal communities are managing today. "Generally, I'm trying to avoid fences and other objects while taking pictures", says Wynn, "so trying to dig up any buried images was way more difficult than expected." Wynn also added, "Historically, American Indians did have boundary markers. Traditionally they used the mountains, rivers and distinct landmarks that acted as fences to marked their territory."

The United States as we know it could not have been settled and built without fences; they continue to be an integral part of the nation. Fences stand for security: we use them to enclose our houses and neighborhoods. They are decorative structures that are as much part of the landscape as trees and flowers. Industry and agriculture without fences would be difficult to imagine. Private ownership of land would be an abstract concept. But fences are more than functional objects. They are powerful symbols. The way we define ourselves as individuals and as a nation becomes concrete in how we build fences.

It examines human relationships on an expanding scale: neighbor to neighbor.

Between Fences is about defining ourselves as Americans- our philosophies, our lifestyles, our values and beliefs.

Wanted: Ghost Writer

2009-07-30T08:20:00.000-06:00

Great opportunity for a writer of novels who is interested in collaborating on a book project. I'm a freelance photographer who has an extensive image collection of Native American Tribal Communities and lifestyles. I have an idea for a unique storyline of my photographic adventures while traveling and documenting throughout Indian Country. The story also features a historic photographer who lived 100 years ago. Two photographers, living a century apart, who's lives and passions run parallel. Since my major was filmmaking, I've written an outline for a narrative screenplay. Old and new photographs could also be made available for this unique book. Hush on the title as it's a secret for now.

My contact info is:

Angel Wynn
NativeStock Pictures
208 720-0999
angel@nativestock.com

I look forward to discuss this project's possibilities with any writer, published or unpublished, who is serious and interested . Call or email me soon.

Monday PBS: Trail of Tears

2009-04-25T18:23:00.000-06:00

Photography by: Marilyn Angel Wynn of NativeStock Pictures

WE SHALL REMAIN: Trail of Tears

Monday, April 27, 2009 at 9pm on PBS (check local listings)

"The most historically accurate, I think, of any documentaries or telling of this story that I've seen in my lifetime." Actor Wes Studi (Cherokee)

Trail of Tears explores the resolve and resilience of the Cherokee Nation, who resisted removal from their homelands in the Southeast in every way they knew: assimilating, adopting a European-style government and legal system, accepting Christianity, and even taking their case all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court.

From director Chris Eyre (Smoke Signals, Skinwalkers) Trail of Tears, the third episode in AMERICAN EXPERIENCE's five-part miniseries, WE SHALL REMAIN, premieres Monday, April 27, 2009 on PBS.

If you missed episodes one or two watch online or on the PBS World digital channel.

Every person has a story. Share yours!

“With 560 federally recognized tribes in the US, it was impossible for us to tell everyone’s story,” says WE SHALL REMAIN executive producer Sharon Grimberg.

If you have Native roots, now it’s your turn to share your experiences through WE SHALL REMAIN's Online Story Sharing tool. It allows Native people across the country to publish video, audio, or written pieces on the Web sites of public media broadcasters in their communities.

Check your local public television station website for details on the WE SHALL REMAIN Story Sharing tool, and help WE SHALL REMAIN to create a more diverse portrait of Native history and contemporary Indian life.

Coming Up Next Week
WE SHALL REMAIN: Geronimo
Monday, May 4, 2009 at 9pm on PBS (check your local listings)

Geronimo takes place at the end of the Indian Wars, near the close of the nineteenth century. Here, desperate times catapulted a controversial character to the leadership of an Apache band. To angry whites, Geronimo was an archenemy, the perpetrator of unspeakable savage cruelties. To some Apaches, he was a stubborn troublemaker whose actions needlessly brought the enemy's wrath upon them. To his supporters, he remained the embodiment of proud resistance, leading the last Native American fighting force to surrender to the United States government.

Native Now: WE SHALL REMAIN on Public Radio

On Monday, April 27, tune in to NPR's Morning Edition a new installment from WE SHALL REMAIN's companion radio series. Hear how, in spite of the horrific suffering inflicted by theTrail of Tears, displaced tribes did survive, and some flourished. Today the Chickasaw Nation confounds the "reservation" stereotype, with good healthcare, education, a strong sense of cultural independence and a thriving economy based only partly on gaming.

Photography by: Marilyn Angel Wynn of NativeStock Pictures

PBS: WE SHALL REMAIN

2009-04-19T19:32:00.000-06:00

PBS: WE SHALL REMAIN

This is a bulletin to let all the "Friends of Native America" know about a special TV series that started last Monday evening. Astounding accounts, part documentary and part re-enactments, of significant American Indian History across our nation. As an expert on photographing Native America, Marilyn Angel Wynn of Nativestock Pictures said, "so far from what I have seen from this first episode along with other programing clips, the films are all extraordinary and accurate. I highly recommend this series if you have any interest at all in US history and America's First Nations".

This remarkable television premiere on PBS titled "WE SHALL REMAIN" on the American Heritage program. This special 5 part series titled of WE SHALL REMAIN is a provocative multi-media project that establishes Native history as an essential part of American history. The not-to-be-missed episodes and show dates are:

Episode 1 April 13 After the Mayflower
In 1621, the Wampanoag of New England negotiated a treaty with Pilgrim settlers. A half-century later, as a brutal war flared between the English and a confederation of Indians, this diplomatic gamble seemed to have been a grave miscalculation

Episode 2 April 20 Tecumseh's Vision
In the course of his brief and meteoric career, Tecumseh would become one of the greatest Native American leaders of all time, orchestrating the most ambitious pan-Indian resistance movement ever mounted on the North American continent.

Episode 3 April 27 Trail of Tears
Though the Cherokee embraced “civilization” and won recognition of tribal sovereignty in the U.S. Supreme Court, their resistance to removal from their homeland failed. Thousands were forced on a perilous march to Oklahoma.

Episode 4 May 4 Geronimo
As the leader of the last Native American fighting force to capitulate to the U.S. government, Geronimo was seen by some as the perpetrator of unspeakable savage cruelties, while to others he was the embodiment of proud resistance.

Episode 5 May 11 Wounded Knee
In 1973, American Indian Movement activists and residents of the Pine Ridge Reservation occupied the town of Wounded Knee, demanding redress for grievances. As a result of the siege, Indians across the country forged a new path into the future.

CROW CREEK UPDATE

2009-04-01T16:18:00.000-06:00

ALERT!!!!

Please watch this video update about the power utility cut-offs of families, elders and vets living on Crow Creek Reservation in South Dakota. This week's weather: low winter temperatures, wind chills and blizzards have been reported

CROW CREEK VIDEO REPORT

2009-03-09T20:37:00.000-06:00

Left to right: Photo-assistant Julie Teton, model Leo Teton, photographer Marilyn Angel Wynn, model James Tone

After spending years to photograph hundreds of American Indian tribes throughout North America, it takes dedication, focus and lots of travel. These pictures make up a large photo archive called the Nativestock Collection. Each year I pack up my camera gear and head out to tribal communities. Through research and some scouting, I look for individuals that know their culture, special events, historic exhibits and any other unique photo opportunity found on reservations and traditional homelands. You may have a suggestion about a special event, tourism in your area, people willing to model or for any other reason that I should come to your area. How about being hired as my photo-assistant? I pay individuals a day-rate and models by the hour. No experience necessary. You only need to be familiar with locations in your neck of the woods and know a handful of tribal members that are artisans, elders, leaders and traditionalists of any age. Maybe you have a family member that would like to be hired as a model or assistant. Post a message in the comment area or email me at nativestock@mac.com with your contact info and why you think I should come to your area for a photo-shoot. For some individuals, this opportunity could turn into a career in location scouting, assisting other photographers or a job on local film production. A few States that are on my wish list to photograph a tribal community or reservation are with an assistant for a few days are Kansas, Minnesota, Maine, Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, Washington and Colorado. I'm open for all areas in Indian Country and I plan to hire an assistant for a few days at each location. If you are a tribal member and interested to work with me as an assistant on one of my photo shoots, or know anyone else that would like this paid opportunity, then send me a note. Tell me a little about your homelands and why you feel it needs to be documented with pictures. Oh and by the way, those interested need to have a good sense of humor to apply for this position.

Target areas and events planned for 2009:

Seneca, Niagara Falls NY
Mohawk territory, Canada
Ojibwe Tribe, Land of Lakes
Spirit Journey, West Coast
Mescalero Apache, NM
Cayuse, Umatilla, Oregon
Klamath Rez, Oregon
Sioux Artist Ride, South Dakota

Join Native American Network: ORIGINS TV

2009-03-01T11:16:00.000-07:00

You can join THE ORIGINS TV by clicking on this link:

Indian Country Travel & News

Our members include Russell Means, Native American Music Awards executives, Shinning Elk Entertainment, NativeStock Pictures, On Native Ground Radio and many more...

The Origins TV is a prophesy of Indigenous proportion, a meeting place, where content developers of Native American and Indigenous media vent.

Native American NEWSPAPERS

2009-02-12T08:53:00.000-07:00

Research Tribal Newspapers and The Web Before You Go

Photography By: ©Marilyn Angel Wynn/Nativestock Pictures

Before visiting an area to photograph, in Indian Country USA, I do the research. One of my main tools for information are tribal newspapers for stories of annual events, new developments and interesting people. I to be a subscriber of many of these weekly's and monthly's. On occasion I've even placed ads in some to hire models or look for an assistant. Now, instead of the printed versions, I go straight to a tribal newspaper's website to search through a wealth of information. Their stories vary from governmental issues to special events all the way down to local gossip on the rez. Photo researchers that call my office looking for images of specific current happenings, which I generally do not have at the time of their request, are directed to a tribal community paper or one of the National Native American circulations. Here's a list with links to many of my favorite websites to gather information.

Let me know your favorite newspapers or websites that you use. I'd like to hear from you.

The Cherokee Phoenix was one of the first tribal newspapers published in the early 1800's using both english and the Cherokee syllabary language. The Phoenix press was located in New Echota Georgia and began distribution several years before the infamous Trail Of Tears.

Hollywood Movies Indian Style

2009-01-23T09:02:00.000-07:00

photography by: Marilyn Angel Wynn

As part of my business of Indian Country travel and photography, I'm always in search of historic and contemporary films for entertainment that are primarily based on tribal cultures. Most of the stories are drama based but you will find some genuine Indian humor scattered throughout a couple of scripts. Here's a list I made up of 16 movies (Hollywood-style) that, to various extents, present Native Americans where the script content is realistic and somewhat accurate. They range from feature films where the narrative genre involves reservation life today, historic periods, specific events and includes documentary films. These are movies that I've personally watched and feel that they all, on the most part, provide a respectful image of Native Americans and other Indigenous cultures around the world. This list is in no special order. Many of these films are available at BlockBusters.com where you can view detailed information on each film, such as actors, directors, etc. Sometimes an included plot summary is provided. Suggestions to include other films are welcome.

MOVIES:

Whale Rider
Rabbit Proof Fence
A Man Called Horse
Last Of The Mohicans
The Last Of His Tribe: Ishi
Skins
Dreamkeeper
Wardance
Thief of Time
Water
Little Big Man
Dances With Wolves
Edge Of America
Smoke Signals
End Of The Spear
Pow Wow Highway

YouTube - "I Support NATV"

2009-01-16T09:14:00.000-07:00

YouTube - "I Support NATV"

Native Americans Participate in Obama's Inauguration

2009-01-15T13:39:00.000-07:00

Indian participation in Obama’s inauguration takes shape

Photography by: Marilyn Angel Wynn
More pictures at: Nativestock Pictures

The UTTC (United Tribes Technical College) delegation will join a total of 10 American Indian and Alaska Native groups that have been announced so far to appear in the inaugural parade. The parade is one of many inauguration-related activities that will happen Jan. 20 after Obama and Vice President-elect Joe Biden are sworn in to their new positions. American Indian groups and individuals also plan to have their own inaugural ball and pow wow in Washington, during which they hope to see an appearance by Obama himself.

“I am honored to invite these talented groups and individuals to participate in the inaugural parade,” the incoming president said in a statement. “These organizations embody the best of our nation’s history, diversity and commitment to service. Vice President-elect Biden and I are proud to have them join us in the parade.”

Indigenous groups scheduled to march include members of the Crow Nation of Montana, veteran members of the

Oneida Nation of Wisconsin, the Suurimmanitchuat Eskimo dance group, and members of the Coeur d’Alene and Nez Perce Tribes. The UTTC delegation will feature members from five more tribes, including the Three Affiliated Tribes of Fort Berthold, the Spirit Lake Tribe, the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate, the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe and the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians. UTTC’s participants will include employees and students who have served in the Armed Forces, as well as singers and dancers using traditional hoop drums. David Gipp, president of the institution, also plans to take part in the historic event. He gave an address focused on tribal colleges and Indian issues at the Democratic National Convention in August.

Presidential Inaugural Committee officials said that invitations were extended to the Native groups in keeping with a

commitment to hold inaugural events that celebrate the country’s common values and reflect the diversity and history of the nation.

Longfeather, who served in Operation Desert Storm, is not only coordinating UTTC’s participation, he’s also going to be in the parade. “I’ve been trying to wrap my mind around all this,” said Longfeather, who is looking forward to seeing progress on Indian issues under Obama’s leadership. “It’s just such an honor.”

Robert Old Horn, executive assistant to the Crow Nation Chairman Carl Venne, said that tribal members had long been interested in being part of the parade, especially after the Crow’s adopted Obama into the tribe when he visited the reservation on May 19. During that campaign visit, he was given a Crow name, which translates to “One who helps people throughout the land.” Members of the family that adopted Obama were special guests of his at the DNC. Old Horn said that Crow Nation parade participants will ride painted horses single file, while wearing special traditional regalia. “We want to celebrate and support not only the President of the United States of America, but also celebrate with one of our own,” Old Horn said. “We feel very humbled, but also proud that we will be able to come forward with our support.” “The chairman would like to take everybody he can,” Old Horn added. “But we can only take so many, and that’s the hard part.” Twenty-four members are currently scheduled to be part of the Crow contingent.

The Oneida Nation Veterans Color Guard of Wisconsin, which hosted members of the Medal of Honor Association in 2007, plans to feature a five-person group of veteran members marching in the parade. “We’re looking forward to this,” Kerry Metoxen, director of the Oneida Nation veterans department, told local media outlets after learning of the tribe’s invitation to march. “This is great news.”

The parade is open to the public, and will take place down Pennsylvania Avenue following Obama’s swearing-in ceremony on the steps of the Capitol. Tickets are not required to attend the celebration, which will also be televised. More information about attending is available at http://dc.about.com/od/specialevents/a/InaugParade.htm.

An Inheritance Of Arrowheads

2009-01-03T07:42:00.000-07:00

A Purpose in Life...To Photograph Tribal Nations

It all began when I inherited a few ancient stone tools and arrowheads. That was when the moment when I dreamed up this awesome career, at least for me anyway. This self-created job description was to "specialize and photograph American Indian culture's for the who's who in publishing".

Now after several years of travel to document Native America, reading hundreds of books and speaking with a variety of tribal elders, I dreamed of another project. Through much research, I came across many inspirational speeches from tribal members past and present who eloquently spoke of their spiritual philosophy on living.

In fact, this obsession with photographing American Indian tribes and to read their leaders quotes, inspired me so deeply that I set out to self-published a book. Titled 'Voice of the Spirit: Words of Wisdom From Indian Country USA' this photo book was designed to include my own personal selection of 100 of my favorite photographs I've had the honor to capture along with snippets of meaningful quotes so eloquently spoken by Native people recorded throughout post-contact.

Here is a small sample of photographs and exerpts from my book 'Voice of the Spirit'.

"Knowledge is inherent in all things. The world is a library" -Chief Standing Bear

"When you see a new trail, or a footprint you do not know, follow it to the point of knowing" -Uncheedah

"Whatever befalls the earth befalls the sons of the earth. Man did not weave the web of life; he is merely a strand in it. Whatever he does to the web, he does to himself" -Chief Seattle

NEW YEARS '09 GOAL #1

2009-01-02T16:38:00.000-07:00

Friends of Native America Group members list has surprisingly grown in the last few months. A big THANK YOU to all of you and your caring. This group is for people of tribal heritage and for those who are passionate to learn about Native American culture. We are here to network together to help protect sacred sites, promote economic development and recommend travel destinations throughout Indian Country through photography and stories. My big goal this year is to keep you members up-to-date on tribal culture, people and up-coming events. This will enable all of us to help out in some way or another, small or large. Through our networking, donations to coat drives, food drives, emergency aid, voluntary contributions or even just your time to write the odd letter are all very helpful. If any of you hear of any specific news from Indian Country that may be of interest to other members then I invite you to leave a comment. May our networking through Friends of Native America bring us all new and exciting opportunities for 2009. Kindly share any meaningful goals that you are hoping to achieve this year.

Friends of Native America

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Photography by: ©Marilyn Angel Wynn/Nativestock.com

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An Inheritance Of Arrowheads

A Purpose in Life...To Photograph Tribal Nations

NEW YEARS '09 GOAL #1