By Roy Cook

The South Bayfront Artists, Soaring Eagle two day success of the 2nd annual Native American pow wow is a colorful page in the history book of life. This location is, on many levels, better than last years and the weather is gorgeous! We thank our title sponsor, the Port District of San Diego.

The American Warriors Association, AIWA, is honored to be invited to participate on many levels in this event. We are also honored that Richard Garcia, Lipan Apache and USMC veteran is our Staff carrier this year. The improved pow wow committee has made every effort to be traditional to our Native American culture and followed every protocol in a respectful manner.

Both days built on positive achievements and brought forth many more surprises to entertain the huge turnout of dancers and audience. Honored was Elder Ella Jean Demontiney Morales. We received reports of rewards and success from the many vendors and the wide variety of art and food choices. Mr. Richard Orvedal, William Buchannan, Vickie Gambala, Randy Edmonds, Omar Quintero and Don Johnson have organized a fine expression of Native pride and entertainment for the entire Chula Vista community and have invited Native American, Kumeyaay, active military, students, artists and many visitors to enjoy the richness of our cultures.

The Head staff: Randy Edmonds Emcee, Robert Gastelum Arena Director, Richard Van Dyke (Parker), Sandra Rivera head dancers, Robert Solis Head boy, Jeanette Hamilton Head girl, Yumiko Nizhoni Cambridge Young girl, Ricky Garcia Young boy, were fine examples of tribal regalia and pow wow competing categories. Our Head Drums were: Green River singers and Red Warriors, guest drums Dancing Cloud and California Ramblers. Special features were the Viejas Asha Tukuk led by Ral Christman, Mac Lopez Native American flute and the Calpuli Mexihca Danza Azteca. Enjoy these images by professional photographer Gary Ballard and Josie Molo.

I am Roy Cook, Opata-O’odham a member of the AIWA Honor Color Guard and US Army Special Forces Airborne, Green Beret, Vietnam era veteran and very happy to have been there this past weekend.