Jack Madden said:
Jennie
I live on the rez --- on the 4th of July we have one of the largest pow wows in the nation. One of my nearest neighbors is the guy who puts together the schedule for the four days of dancing (he is on cloud nine right now - his son just got back from Iraq). The hand done bead work on the dresses and shirts is awesome. The women doing the bead work receive very little for the months of work. Just like cues, it is a status thing to have your bead work done by "Szamboti" or "MadPlumme" (yes, MadPlumme is a real name).
Jack
www.johnmaddencues.com
I am full of envy, Jack. That sounds like one cool happening! Maybe if I can retire soon, we can come pay a visit. It sure does look nice out your way!
When we drove out to Vegas last year, I stopped at just about every single Native American store en route, coming and going. My ancestors are Cherokee, but not from Oklahoma. They settled in the Oconaluftee Mountains in North Carolina and later moved to southern Virginia.
One has to really inspect some of the artwork that are being passed off as Native American today. Sometimes, upon inspection, the items are not really Native American and are produced overseas.
Though today, there are several Native American Tribes who enjoy a handsome income from casinos, there are MANY Native American Tribes who are living in poverty, their children not afforded a decent education and health care, and sadly there still exists some prejudice in some parts of the United States against Native Americans.
On a good note, there are currently entities, mostly Native American Tribes themselves, who are trying to change this. The Department of Interior blunders in the past have thwarted the efforts of some Tribes, but that's a topic for another thread.
Last February at Turning Stone, Keith was fortunate enough to bring his game with him to Verona, NY, and he came in second place. It was my birthday that weekend, and so I celebrated with his winnings (LOL) and got me an absolutely BEAUTIFUL authentic hand-made Native American purse at the Turning Stone Casino. I love it, love it, love it!
Jack, wish you and yours the best for the new year up ahead! Talk to you soon!
Jennie