Storytelling Conference Reflections, 2013

Our 8th Annual Native Storytelling Conference was a wonderful, magical success last weekend. When we gather once a year for these sacred, sweet, and often very funny stories, we allow ourselves an afternoon to step back into the important tradition of listening, learning and appreciating life lessons from stories of time immemorial. Each one has a significant and crucial role in the sharing of history--both cultural and physical, from the First Peoples of this continent. To read more, scroll down to bottom of photos to "read more!"

We, as R.E.D., feel honored and blessed that Native traditionalists are willing to share these precious stories with our inter-tribal community. These are gifts we never want to take for granted.

We are very grateful to the following people and places who helped bring our community together in warmth and happiness to share these indigenous stories:

~ McKenzie River Gathering Foundation for grant funds.
~ City of Ashland for Pioneer Hall.
~ Carefree Buffalo Store for the raffled Pendleton.
~ Paddington Station for the giveaway items.
~ Greenleaf Restaurant for the food donation.
~ Jackson County Fuel Committee for wood donations.
~ Tom Smith for the Eagle Staff.
~ Dan Wahpepah for his stories.
~ Russell Beebe for his stories.
~ Wylie for his acorn processing demonstration.
~ Whistling Elk Singers for their songs.
~ Christine Leonard for the Warmth Project.
~ Helpers for set-up, clean-up and kitchen detail.
~ Jane A. for the raffle and giveaway logistics.
~ Our community for a delicious potluck feast.
~ Our vendors for adding to the festivities.

Also, a special thank you to our featured Storyteller, Esther Stutzman, Kalapuya Tribe of Oregon, AND her granddaughter, Aiyanna, following in her grandmother's footsteps and learning the stories. What a treat to see the family art of passing stories down from generation to generation!

Blessings to you all in these winter holidays. Thank you for being part of our tradition~