VANCOUVER — The Water Resources Education Center and Vancouver’s diverse native community will showcase native regalia, song, dance and other activities at a special joint Second Saturday event from 1 to 4 p.m., Sat., Nov. 12, at 4600 S.E. Columbia Way.
The public is invited to celebrate and recognize the many contributions of Native Americans to the larger American cultural mosaic at this free community event, which begins at 1 p.m. with native crafts and games.
At 1:45 p.m., join us for a Chinook blessing and presentations about the Canoe Journeys and the native community. Traditional music and song will follow, with dancers walking a ‘red’ runway in native regalia — clothing and adornment unique to each dancer and his or her heritage. The native dancers will share their personal stories and invite the entire audience to participate in a friendship dance. Celebrate the day with cake after the runway presentation.
This year, kids and families will also have the opportunity to:
- Hear about the Urban Native Community Network
- View a 30-foot Chinook cedar canoe, called Itsxut, the Bear
- Listen to stories of recent Canoe Journeys
- Play native games of skill and chance
- Paint feathers and enjoy other hands-on activities
Also in recognition of Native American Heritage, through the remainder of 2016, the Water Center will feature displays showcasing the Cathlapotle Plankhouse at the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge and other native artwork. Community members are also invited to attend a Pow Wow from 5 to 10 p.m., Fri., Nov 4, at Clark College’s Gaiser Hall Student Center, highlighting traditions and customs that practice living in harmony with all things.
For more information, please visit the Water Center website at www.cityofvancouver.us/watercenter or contact Cory Samia at 360-487-7111.
Overlooking the Columbia River, the city of Vancouver’s Water Resources Education Center offers exhibits, events and educational programs designed to teach us all how to be excellent stewards of water resources and how to use water wisely. The Water Center, a division of the City’s Department of Public Works, is also caretaker of one of the metropolitan area’s few remaining natural Columbia River riparian areas, nearly 50 protected acres of adjacent wetlands providing feeding, nesting and resting habitat for more than 120 species of fish and wildlife. The Water Center is part of the Vancouver National Historic Reserve.
The Water Center’s general hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, and noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday. From Interstate 5 or Interstate 205, take state Highway 14 to Exit 1. Turn south under the highway, then east at the Columbia Shores intersection onto Columbia Way and head east about 3 miles to the Water Center.
More information is available on the Internet at www.cityofvancouver.us/watercenter or by calling 360-487-7111.
