WOTN3 by WOTN

THE SUMMER EDITION • • • • • • •

Freddie Bitsoi: Native Food Anthropologist Tasia Thompson: Men’s Calendar Brian Young: Movie Review Victoria Blackie: Singing Country Selena Watchman: Living A Dream Photos by LT: Desert Nights Deidre Greyeyes: 2nd Time Is The Charm

HARRISON DEHIYA Broadcasting Sports in Navajo

Tanya Lister â&#x20AC;˘ 2012 Model - Women of the Navajo

From the publisher... I recently attended a graduation picnic in New Mexico and after everyone ate, things got serious. For an entire hour, aunts, uncles, friends, siblings, grandparents told the new graduate to continue on with her education. “Don’t stop, Don’t Stop, Keep Going”, “You must...”. During this session, some family members confessed how they got side-tracked with bad things. Others said they could’ve, should’ve, would’ve done more with their education. Those with college degrees, said they are always learning. It was obvious, they wanted the best for their graduate. So what was their point? Is that, if you want to wish from the sidelines, it’s your choice. On the other hand, if you want certainty in your life, it will involve education. It also makes publishing an “independent” magazine intriguing, you can select whatever topic you want and there will be someone waiting to discuss their field. Someone who chose certainty in their life. We enjoy featuring individuals who wanted certainty and satisfaction in their life. Some maybe still young and have a ways to go, but someone told them, “Don’t stop, Don’t Stop, Keep Going”, “You must...”. Because people choose “certainty”, WOTN wins too. We may never become wealthy, but featuring “creative and productive” articles is exciting to us, and we get to know all types of people and have fun at the same time. This is proof that we’re not a one-dimensional group of people. We are quite diverse doing everything under the sun. In the last issue, we mentioned the idea of improving our marketing for this publication, so the stats would double. I think we did a decent job because we watched the “hits” for the second quarter surpass the stats for the first quarter. Overall, we’re satisfied with our pursuit. It will get even better. For writers, photographers and graphic designers, (amateur or professionals), this a great platform to display their work. Drop us a note at wotn@rocketmail.com. If you’re interested in submitting a story, or want to know more about us, feel free to contact us. The “harvest” season is almost here already, be safe as you attend the upcoming fairs.

Publisher: Larry Thompson Associate Publisher: Krista Thompson Art Director: Larry Thompson Contributors:

Bonnie Kline Brian Young

We’re on Facebook: WOTN-Online Magazine

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An Arts & Entertainment Publication

On the Cover: Natasha K. Johnson (Model â&#x20AC;˘ Actress â&#x20AC;˘ Writer)

06 Brian Young: Native Movie Review 08 Men of the Navajo Creator: Tasia Thompson 12 Harrison Dehiya: Annoucing Sports in Navajo 16 Freddie Bitsoi: Food Anthropologist 18 Selena Watchman: Navajo Modeling 22 Victoria Blackie: Country Singer 30 Photos By LT: Desert Evening 39 How To Please Your Partner 40 Jumbo Creations

Crystal Begay Thinn and Sheila Hollowhorn

Native Americans of the Civil War 2007, Run Time 75 minutes, Rated G Written and directed by Stan Armstrong, a Desert Rose Production

By Brian Young

Winner of Best Documentary Mercury Films Festival 2003 When considering the Civil War, history pays most attention towards the warring Union and Confederacy. This leaves little understanding of the Native American population whose homeland hosted the battles. Stan Armstrong’s ambitious documentary, “Native Americans of the Civil War,” seeks to shed some light upon an overlooked and often ignored page of history. Examining key figures of the first Native American veterans, “Native Americans of the Civil War” narrates an important and informative topic. “Native Americans” uncovers encyclopedic amounts of information and facts, truly its greatest achievement. The documentary’s attention not only surveys the eastern United States but also southwestern territories during which massive relocations occurred. “Native Americans” focuses mainly on the Five Civilized Tribes (Cherokee, Choctaw, Muskogee Creek, Chickasaw, and Seminole) and their involvement in both the Union and the Confederacy. Like their white counterparts, Native Americans were divided and fought on both sides. We begin with Stand Watie (Cherokee), the only Native American individual to attain general brigadier ranking in 1864. Fighting for the Confederacy, Watie captured a Union steamboat and also had been the last Confederate general to surrender. Next on the roster is Chief Opothle Yahola (Muskogee Creek) who refused alliance with Confederacy. Indian Agent General Douglas H. Cooper who had been determined to enlist the chief for the Confederacy, confronted the Creek leader and his warriors. Chief Opothle Yahola was able to successfully drive Cooper back. From there, the documentary mentions Ely S. Parker (Iroquois) a member of the Union who was the first individual to serve as Commissioner of Indian Affairs and the completely Native American unit Company K of the Missouri Sharpshooters. Events unrelated to the Civil War itself also make appearances. During 1862, the Santee Sioux revolted and killed approximately 800 settlers in Minnesota. Massive relocations, such as the infamous “Long Walk,” occurred in the southwest forcing Navajos and Mescalero Apaches to Bosque Redondo. “Native Americans” presents its information in a variety of ways. Most often, the two narrators, Maurice Showers and Krystle Plafero, guide the audience through this unbeaten path while black and white photographs from that time frame depict Native Americans. Dramatic reenactments shot in sephia, star the Associate Producer Leon Yazzie (Navajo) and showcase the battles. Historians, Cherokee ancestors, and a plethora of professors divulge detailed explanations of the time, settings, and Native Americans in their respective interviews. The biggest problem in this film is the pacing. It is one constant stream of regurgitated information. It never slows down for a second. There is no down time to let the information settle into your brain. After one story completes, the next one begins immediately. If you don’t own the DVD, good luck trying to fully comprehend the entire tale without the ability to rewind. Given the lack of 06 - WOTN-The Magazine

any map, or any visual references for that matter, it also leaves the audience guessing at to where it’ll land next. One moment the film discuses the Five Civilized Tribes and their removal from Kansas to Oklahoma and the next moment it accounts the Navajos and Mescalero Apaches relocation from Arizona to eastern New Mexico. The writing, by Marc May and Stan Armstrong, also confuses. Four minutes into the film, a narrator dictates: “Veterans of the Confederate service who saw action along the Missouri-Arkansas frontier have complained in past years that military operations in and around Virginia during the war between the states received historically so much attention that as a consequence the [study starting] west beyond the Mississippi river is either totally ignored or at best cast into dim obscurity.” Native Americans of the Civil War, 2007

I can’t accurately quote what is being said in between the brackets, [study starting]. That’s the best guess I can muster. In combination with pronunciation and articulation of the narrators, it can be quite the challenge understanding what is being told. In summation, technicalities trip this ambitious project. “Native Americans of the Civil War” presents an amazing topic with ample research. The information that is articulated well enough for comprehension just staggers the mind. Even more astounding than the Native American individuals who fought in the war is their reasons and what occurs afterwards. Most tribes fought as a political statement to show their loyalty and to improve their political standing. Those that fought in the confederacy were forced to renegotiate treaties with the United States. Even those that remained loyal to the Union also found their reservations diminished. Yes, this information is extremely tasty but hard to digest with the speed at which it is delivered. Unfortunately, it’s the audience responsibility to construct coherency. Given the lack of repeating what has been told, a map, and a timeline, it’s hard to completely grasp the first time through. This documentary is like a college lecture. You need to devote your entire attention and have a pen and paper handy to fully understand this narration of the first Native American veterans. ABOUT BRIAN YOUNG Brian was born and raised on the Navajo Reservation. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Film Studies from Yale University in 2010. This column reviews movies that portray or are constructed by Native Americans. Each issue, Brian will review a recently released film or a critically acclaimed film. On his spare time, Brian enjoys reading, video games, and has modeled for the 2011 Men of the Navajo Calendar. If you or someone you know has a film that portrays or is made by Native Americans feel free to email Brian at blyoung05@yahoo.com.

An Arts & Entertainment Publication

DOCUMENTARY” Mercury Films Festival The American Civil War has been called the war that divided brother against brother, friend against friend and race against race. The best indication of the latter is how the Native Americans chose sides. Stand Watie led his confederate braves against fellow Cherokee and other Indians; while Ely Parker (Iroquois) and 3,600 Native Americans fought for the Union. An Arts & Entertainment Publication

The third installment of Stan Armstrong’s Civil War Trilogy, focuses on the five civilized tribes and their contributions to both sides as well as the Northern Chippewas and Iroquois who were led and tutored by the northern abolitionist during the war. This documentary also focuses on Brigadier General Stand Watie, most noted for being the last general to surrender during the Civil War. He is portrayed on film by Las Vegas local and Desert Rose Production Associate Producer, Leon Yazzie (Navajo) and Harry GoodWolf Kindness (Sioux) portrays his adjutant.

For More Info:

“ BEST

yellowtail3030@gmail.com

A Desert Rose Production

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Tasia Thompson, 19 year old ASU student says her second “Men of the Navajo” calendar will be released in September 2011 to fans. With many calendars becoming available, she plans to work hard to win customer support.

MOTN2012 IS HEADED TO A FAIR NEAR YOU! What is ‘Men of the Navajo’? “Men of the Navajo” is a calendar that features a young generation of Navajo men. We’ve seen many calendars showcasing Native women, but not many on men and a result MOTN was developed in 2010. It’s a great way for our guys to represent themselves, their families and hometowns. To our surprise, the first edition of MOTN calendar was a hit on the rez. We’re working hard to prevent it from being a one-hit wonder. MOTN is now going for round two! What was the public’s reaction on your first edition? The 2011 MOTN models were quite a sight to see as they walked parade routes, mingled with fair go-ers, and taking pictures with fans. Everyone’s first reaction was pure curiosity because there’s never been a calendar like this on the rez before. After introducing the six and the actual calendar product, the public’s reaction grew from curiosity to support. With the announcement of a second edition, people can’t wait to get their second helping of MOTN.

You said earlier, that we’re going for round two, what does that mean? We were unsure if the public could handle 12 handsome Navajo guys in the first edition, so we experimented with just six. It turns out the public wanted to see more guys in the upcoming calendar. And that’s what is planned for the second edition. The calendar will be featuring twelve guys for the second edition, 12 for 2012! With more native calendars becoming available, what must you do to set yours apart from them? That would be to maintain a competitive mindset. You have to assume that there are ten other male calendars, so you have to stay dedicated and hungry. Although MOTN was a successful in its first year, it doesn’t mean the result will be the same. MOTN will continue to work hard for customer support by featuring the guys in a modest, yet modern way. You can always expect MOTN to be on the cutting edge of creativity and quality. Your 2011 models were very visible with the public, do you have plans for the models to meet their new fans again? Yes! The new 12 will be attending all fair events this coming season, so please find the MOTN booth and meet Patrick, Derek, Lance, Craig, Verlin, Lex, Henry, Buu, Asa, Brian, Jerad, and Milford! Everyone can meet them at the Window Rock Fair in September. Witness the second edition for yourself!

What is the most challenging task in putting on a project like How does it feel to be around 12 this together? handsome models? It’s deciding which ideas to carry I, not only wanted to feature goodBRIAN YOUNG • FT. DEFIANCE, AZ out, because there’s so much that looking Navajo men, but to show more 2010 YALE UNIVERSITY GRADUATE 2011 MOTN MODEL we want to do with this calendar. than just their looks. They are college We can see it becoming a household name like ‘Women of students, former military, athletes, musicians, artists, and the Navajo’ within the next year. When I say we, I mean They all met the requirements for a ‘Men of the Navajo”. my father and boyfriend, who helped me get the first Their good looks is merely a bonus. I look forward to MOTN calendar off the ground. I can’t thank them working them this year! We’ll you posted on their enough! Their support made the entire process easier appearance schedule. But most likely, they will be at a fair opposed to doing it on my own. near you. They are excited to meet you as well. An Arts & Entertainment Publication

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Harrison Dehiya Broadcasting in Navajo

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An Arts & Entertainment Publication

Harrison Dehiya, Navajo Broadcaster Receives International Recognition For Doing What Comes Naturally By Bonnie Kline When Harrison Dehiya was growing up in Coolidge, New Mexico, he never expected to receive national recognition. Although he played basketball and ran track and cross country, he never thought he would be featured in Sports Illustrated Magazine, especially for his voice and native tongue. He was just doing his job, in January of this year, when a reporter Sports Illustrated Magazine reporter approached and asked to interview him. She asked questions as he set up for coverage of a boys basketball game at Gallup High School. Later, the magazine's main office in Manhattan contacted him to obtain a photo and let him know the story would appear in the January 17 issue. Its focus was how he does play-by-play sports announcing in the Navajo language.

To do his job, Harrison gets up at 3:30 in the morning and hustles 30 miles between his home in Coolidge and the KGAK radio station in Gallup so he can be on the air at 5 a.m. For many of the station's listeners, Harrison's voice is the first one they hear each day. As “the morning guy” at KGAK, he brings the world to the Navajo Nation, announcing the national news and local happenings in the language he grew up with. He never guessed that doing what came so naturally would lead to his career. Was it fate that led him to it?

For many of the station's listeners, Harrison's voice is the first one they hear each day. As “the morning guy” at KGAK he brings the world to the Navajo Nation...

This is not the first time the Navajo language has come to the attention of the outside world. After World War II, the general public learned what a vital role Navajo had played in defeating the Japanese. The U.S. Military employed native speakers to devise a code undecipherable by the enemy. The success of the “code talkers” helped win World War II and the Navajo are justifiably proud of their language. But it is difficult to master, unless one grows up with it, as Harrison did.

For him, speaking Navajo just came naturally. He says he was surprised the magazine wanted to do a story about that, because Sports Illustrated goes all over the world. Harrison's first look at the story came when an elderly lady came into the radio station pointing at a copy of the new Sports Illustrated Magazine, saying “You're in here! Can I get your autograph?” Since the story appeared, Harrison has been contacted by other magazines, newspapers and TV stations from as far away as Florida. The Seminoles wanted to meet him at the Gathering of Nations for a TV interview. Harrison says it is pretty amazing how the news went “all over.” “I was just doing my daily job, being a radio announcer, making money for my bread and butter.” An Arts & Entertainment Publication

“I didn't go to school for it; I didn't study for it,” says Harrison. “When I came back from junior college back in the '70s, I was looking for a job and came to Gallup. During the summertime, all of a sudden, the clouds will get real big and it will start raining. As I was going to catch the bus back to Coolidge, it started pouring on me, so I started running and ducked into the next doorway and that was KGAK.”

It so happened that the station was just converting to a new format called “All Navajo – all the time,” and was ready to hire a Navajo newscaster. While waiting out the rain, Harrison filled out a job application and was surprised to be called the next day. Fortunately for him, the other applicant, who had a radio operator's license didn't show up and Harrison's career in radio began. Within a few days, he was on the air, nervously announcing community news in Navajo. The station reaches nearly all the 27,000 square miles of the Navajo Nation (size of West Virginia) and its 300,000 residents.

One of Harrison's first challenges was knowing Navajo names for communities, some very small and far away across the vast reservation. To learn them, he asked the name of each place from whomever he met as he traveled across the sprawling landscape. Over the last 14 years he has visited a good number of those communities as sportscaster for high school sports – basketball and football. Continue reading at page 42 - Harrison WOTN-The Magazine - 13

The Second Time is the Charm Sometimes, you get a second chance – especially if you know what you want and go after it. Five years ago, when she was 20 years old, Deidre Grayeyes auditioned for the Women of the Navajo calendar but wasn’t chosen. She was disappointed, but not bitter. As a determined young woman, she knew she would try again. Deidre continued on with her life, finishing her degree at Arizona State University in 2008. She is now studying for her master’s degree, while also working as a medical administrative assistant. Still, she hasn’t forgotten about her long-time dream of modeling. She was re-inspired after watching the TV show “America’s Next Top Model.” Each year Deidre watched as other young ladies appeared in the Women of the Navajo Calendar. Finally, as she saw youth’s precious years fading into the past, she decided the time was right to try out again. After all, she had nothing to lose except being beaten by a younger beautiful girl. When Deidre tried out the first time, she had convinced herself that she could do it, but didn’t realize how much it takes to model. Now she understands that it takes a lot of hard work as well as being photogenic. At age 25, she is older than some of the models, but Deidre says she is not intimidated by the younger girls. She wants to see how far she can take modeling. “I want to continue doing fashion shows,” says Deidre. I enjoy modeling for Native American fashion designers and hope to get more opportunities. I love the excitement and the challenge of staying fit and ready to model.” Expect to see more of this beautiful woman in other publications and fashion shows.

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An Arts & Entertainment Publication

DEIDRE

GREYEYES Kayenta, Arizona

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Chef Freddie Bitsoie, Native Food Anthropologist and Consultant

Food for Thought By Bonnie Kline

In recent years, Native American food has caught the attention of people from fine cuisine chefs to anthropologists. One man who bridges these two disparate groups is Chef Freddie J. Bitsoie. Because of this, he has found himself becoming something of an expert and spokesperson on the subject. Freddie has appeared on TV shows such as Sonoran Living on Channel 15-ABC in Phoenix, and at the Heard Museum Harvest Feast. He has spoken to groups such as Yale Dining Service, Kraft Foods, Phoenix Indian Center, Arizona Office of Tourism, and the Museum of African American Art in Los Angeles. They want to know, what exactly is Native American food? It is a not an easy subject to define. Young people say that Indian food is what they eat when they go back to the Rez and eat at Grandma’s house. Some consider it sacred. A few restaurants think they are serving Native fare if they include foods such as cattails, prickly pear and sumac berries, regardless of how they are prepared or what other ingredients are included in the dish. Foods eaten in the Northwest, such as salmon, are not the same those eaten in the Southwest or on the East Coast. The fare of larger tribes such as the Navajo, Cherokee and Sioux tend to get the most attention, but there are over 500 tribes in North America, each with their own favorites and traditions. Needless to say, there are many 16 - WOTN-The Magazine

opinions on the subject. Freddie doesn’t have all the answers, but revels in the discussion, debate and discovery. He sees it as a chance to objectively examine the elements of Native food without devaluing traditional views. Freddie came to this study via a rather roundabout route. Because his father worked for a natural gas company, his family frequently moved. Freddie says he got to know practically every town along I-40 from California to New Mexico and was exposed to various cultures and ways of life. (He didn’t like Tohatchi, NM and considered Lake Havasu City, Ariz., with its lake, room to play and sharing neighbors, to be a teenager’s utopia.) After graduating from high school in Ganado, Ariz., he planned to go to Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff. But, an illness led him to stay with his mother in Gallup, NM and attend University of New Mexico-Gallup. It was here at the UNM Branch College that he discovered anthropology in a class taught by Dr. Teresa J. Wilkins. “She was talking about Ethnocentricity and infusion and I ‘got it!’” says Freddie. “From living in all those communities along I-40, I had experienced it!” Later, while working on his bachelor’s degree at University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, he found another inspiring anthropology professor, Dr. David E. Stuart, a Chacoan Culture expert. It was Dr. Stuart who noticed a trend in several papers Freddie had written for various classes. Freddie hadn’t realized it, but everything he had written was about food. Dr. Stuart encouraged Freddie to pursue studies as a food historian or food anthropologist. As he was considering this, a “too-good-to-pass-up” opportunity to attend cooking school came his way. It was a chance to get another perspective on food. At the Scottsdale Culinary School, Freddie An Arts & Entertainment Publication

For more info on Chef Freddie J. Bitsoie visit www.fjbits.com discovered the Franco-centric world of fine cuisine. Then someone asked him, “Do you cook Native food?” His response was, “No, nobody likes it because it is not like their Grandma’s, so I just let Grandma cook it.” But, the question got him thinking about how Native food fit into what he was learning about fine cuisine. Although he has more questions than answers, Freddie has identified some defining characteristics and common threads. Typically, salt is not heavily used, nor much in the way of herbs and seasonings. Traditionally, protein was not the dominant portion of a meal and because most tribes were mobile, it came from fish or game, rather than livestock. Meat is cooked slowly until well done, often in soups so that all the nourishment and flavor are extracted. No rare steaks or sushi! On Freddie’s journey of discovery, he has been An Arts & Entertainment Publication

keeping a journal, and has begun writing his first book. He has also filmed two pilot episodes for a TV Show called “Rezervations Not Required.” The talk show features culture, travel and, of course, cooking. It will also have some familiar faces. In the first one, Irene Bedard, the voice of Pocahontas in the Disney movie and a star of Smoke Signals, talks about foods of the desert. Dishes such as saguaro-seed-crusted chicken, prickly pear cheesecake and cholla bud resoto were prepared in the kitchen of Orange Sky Restaurant at Talking Stick Resort. Comedian JR Redwater is in the second one as Colorado Plateau cuisine is discussed. While the definition of Native food is still being debated, and a few people even question why traditions and information should be revealed, Freddie believes that food should not be a divisive issue. It should bring people together. Food is something to share and enjoy. WOTN-The Magazine - 17

TAKING MODELING TO NEW HEIGHTS

Photography by: Bonnie Mitchell

WOTN: You seem to be doing much of what many young girls dream about, to live in a world of glamour and beauty as a model. What is it like and are you enjoying it? I am absolutely enjoying every minute of it. I remember wishing on stars and birthday cake candles that I would become a model. One thing I didn’t count on was the hard work that comes with the territory.

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SELENA WATCHMAN Photography by: Bonnie Mitchell

Ya’at’eeh from Albuquerque, NM! My name is Selena Watchman, I am 23 years old, 5’5” 103 lbs, Dine woman of the Edge Water clan and Bitter Water clan. I was born in Fort Defiance, Arizona. I moved with my family to Albuquerque at age seven and continue to live here. An Arts & Entertainment Publication

Photography by: Bonnie Mitchell

WOTN: What has been your biggest success so far? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard to weigh my successes because I like to think everything I do is a big deal. I am very proud and excited to work on projects that promote Native American endeavors and place our communities in a positive light. From jewelry to calendars to WOTN Online Magazine! WOTN: What goes through your mind when you are invited to a buffet restaurant? Oh no, anywhere but there. I am super indecisive and hate to waste food. [ INTERVIEW CONTINUED ON PAGE 20 ]

Photographer: Bonnie Mitchell www.bonniemitchell.com bcm@bonniemitchell.com PH. 720-346-3856 An Arts & Entertainment Publication

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Contnd from page 19 - Q & A: Selena Watchman

WOTN: At approximately what age did the “modeling bug” bite you? Who has been the most instrumental in getting your career off the ground? I have to say that I have always wanted to model but was very camera shy until after I graduated from high school. Working in a fast paced restaurant helped me break out of my shell. I realized how much fun it was to let loose and go with the flow. My social skills grew exponentially and enabled me to take chances and embark on my dreams and goals. In all honesty, I give full credit to all of the wonderful photographers, make-up artists, and hair artists that I’ve had the opportunity to work with. I started modeling at age 21, to score some photos that I could save and share with my children and grandchildren someday. I was living in San Diego at the time and I didn’t expect those pictures to open up such amazing opportunities. I did not go the agency route because I did not think I would actually book anything nor did I know whom to trust. Fortunately, I stood out enough to get noticed. Being able to get the attention I got in a city like San Diego is an amazing feeling. WOTN: Who would you say is your biggest supporter right now, why? My family is my rock. They fully support me and that helps me keep my head and heart in the right place. WOTN: Are you an exercise fanatic? Actually the term exercise fanatic is offensive to us! (Laughs) In all seriousness, I like to think of physical activity as a way to escape from stress. I love to run and even more, I am a Hot Yogaholic. I believe that taking a hot yoga class will change your life in positive ways unimaginable. In addition to a 110 degree room, it provides a heighten self-awareness and stretches and tightens muscles that one may not know existed. I mentioned that I love to run, it’s a passion that courses through my veins. Navajo people are known to be great runners. Running helps me look my best. I also spend a lot of time on my abs and lower body. My upper body tones up faster and heavier than my lower body, so, I try to concentrate on my weak areas. WOTN: Do you have other endeavors, interest besides modeling? What are you currently doing? I realized the “business-woman” inside of me after entering the modeling industry. I am pursuing a bachelor degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Advertising at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque. WOTN: What would you say is the biggest “misconception” about being a beautiful model? Is there a downside? Now days the term “model” is used loosely. With social 20 - WOTN-The Magazine

networks like Facebook.com and Modelmayhem.com, everyone with photos of themselves post them online and claim to be a model. I don’t normally tell people about what I do unless they already know. The downside is definitely that modeling is youth oriented, so I don’t want to get too attached to it. WOTN: In your opinion, what would a man have to do or say to win over a beautiful woman’s heart? He would have to do what he says and say what’s in his heart. Nothing is more attractive than an honest man with a sincere heart. WOTN: It’s been said, that beautiful women also have difficulty finding love, is that true? What keeps you from being lonely? Love is tricky and yes, metaphorically speaking, I have kissed a frog or two who did not turn into a prince charming. I have been lucky enough to have wonderful friends and a mother, who is my ultimate best friend. Together, we keep each other’s spirits up, no matter what. Photography by: Bonnie Mitchell

WOTN: What kind of projects are you searching for? Where and how can you be reached for potential projects? I would love to do more clothing and jewelry projects and I am interested in working with new people in general. So, if you are interested in working with me, I look forward to hearing from you. I can be reached by email: swatchmodel@gmail.com (This email is for professional purposes ONLY, all other mail will be marked as spam). I can be found on Facebook where I have a fan page that I check regularly.

JEWELERY COMPANY: Bilagaanas Fine Jewelery DESIGNER AND FOUNDER: Craig Blanchard www.blanchardfinejewelry.com info@bilagaanas.com • 505-883-8755

My favorite food: Fish Tacos My favorite drink: Sparkling water with cucumber slices My favorite fruit: Pineapple My favorite music genre: Dance, Rock, and Reggae Rock My favorite music artist/group: Cascade, Kings of Leon, and Slightly Stoopid My favorite car: The Lamborghini Reventón. It’s like “Batmobile’s” sexy girlfriend. My favorite cereal: Frosted Mini-Wheats My favorite NBA team: Phoenix Suns My favorite NFL team: Dallas Cowboys My favorite MLB team: New York Yankees My favorite College team: UNC Tarheels An Arts & Entertainment Publication

Victoria Blackie isn’t trying to find way her way onto the music scene, she is there, singing into the hearts of new fans. Miss Blackie is the latest singing sensation to hit the country music scene. She and her band are currently zig-zagging around the nation performing and scooping up various awards and making a name for herself. Blackie’s talent is such that music critics compare her voice to that of Patsy Cline and Loretta Lynn. An added plus is she also does well singing blues.

casinos, fairs and festivals and is estactic with the growing crowds. The Salt Lake City resident also knows she must balance work, marriage and her singing career in order to make it to the top.

Blackie’s singing talent was first noticed by her aunt Martha Chavez at the age of 1-1/2, who now serves as her mentor, vocal coach, and manager. She’s grown up now and but continues to hone her singing skills with persistence and precision.

Blackie now incites crowds with her powerful voice as she is the new Native American country singer. Although she operates on a shoestring marketing budget, she is winning the hearts of fans by being genuine, allowing her natural talent to do her talking.

She knows that in order to break into the mainstream, she must pay her dues and does so by singing at

In her recent tour, it included a stop at the Fire Rock Casino in Gallup.

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Victoria Blackie with her band. WOTN: Many people are now finding out who “Victoria Blackie” is and what she does”. What else can you tell us about her? Besides spending all my life on stage and going to voice lessons, I like swimming, hiking, jogging, working out and spending time with family. My husband, Brian Blackie is also from the Navajo tribe and we met high school. WOTN: Contestants that try out for “American Idol” receive an incredible amount of free publicity, has anyone suggested that you try out for it and will you ever consider it? Actually I tried once but wasn’t noticed. Everywhere I sing, someone is always suggesting American Idol. There are hundreds of talented people out there, I consider myself lucky to be reaching for the stars and actually making a difference in someone’s life. It is free publicity and because I’m not an American Idol contestant, I depend greatly on music reviews, radio play, facebook and all the Internet media that is available to artist’s that want to have successful careers.

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WOTN: How are you different from other native female singers? Umm I’m 5”1” jeeee! I totally engross myself into the songs and try to make them my own, I feel music and the lyrics? I love to sing from the heart and also like to try different styles and genres. I have classical training, pop, and Musical Theatre so all of these options allow me to experiment with different tempos and come up with something I totally love to sing. WOTN: How far back does the talent of singing go in your family? Back In the 1800, during the Mexican Revolution my Great Grandma Fransisca Chavez would sing and play the guitar for the soldiers and she was a shorty petite 4 “11 WOTN: Which of the following type of lyrics can be found in your music? Would you say its about love, native culture, politics or other? Why? My album “Wanted Man” has a little bit of everything for your country needs. Love, lovesick blues and patriotism to our soldiers who have served and currently serving.

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WOTN: How did you form your current band? We held live auditions for two ongoing weeks here in Salt Lake City, UT and had call backs and finally we selected some of the very best musicians in the Valley. They had to learn some of my songs from the album for the audition. WOTN: Can you introduce them? MEET THE BAND Alan Parry: Bass Guitarist, Alan is a seasoned and high energy performing bass player and has been playing since 1987. Some of his credits are performing at the Salt Lake Winter Olympics, Sundance Film Festival and has shared the stage with such acts as 2 Live Crew. Alan also appeared in the Paul Thomas Anderson film “Punch Drunk Love” and “After Eden” starring Adam Sandler. Alan is from Sandy, Utah

WOTN: Which well known musician/artist have you met so far? Have they given you any suggestions/advice on dealing with stardom? I met Lee Ann Rimes’s mother and she gave me great advice to “stick with it”. I actually won a contest that Lee Ann won when she was young and her mother was there as a special speaker.

Victoria Blackie

George llanes: Drummer George is a trained musician who carries associates in the arts from Long Beach City College. George drums to perfection and can rock out. George is classical, traditional and modern drumming techniques. He is a resident of Salt Lake City, Utah

WOTN: What kind of response have you received since appearing on the music scene? Very positive, radio stations have been very helpful, fans on facebook, and now I am so excited and honored to announce that Tate Music Group Records has just brought me on board and they will be recording my next album. That definitely will give my career a boost into the mainstream. WOTN: Could you give us a “sneek preview” of your upcoming shows? Check out youtube! WOTN: How can you be reached regarding making an appearance? Contact: Martha Chavez, Victoria Blackie Entertainment Productions Visit: www.victoriablackie.com Phone contact: 801.261.4298

Adam Fifield: Keyboard & Composer Adam has been playing since the age of 5. He started playing classical music and now plays country and blues. He also writes and composes music focusing on the blues. He is from Salt Lake City, Utah Alec Sheah: Guitar Alec is from the former Soviet Union and has played with bands there and Eastern Europe. He immigrated to the US in 1998 and has played all around the world. He plays Country, Blues, Jazz and Rock, R&B and Funk. His motto: “MUSIC IS ABOUT FREEDOM”

WOTN: What is your view on today’s national state of affairs. Are you concerned? I'm not really one to get into politics. I am concerned about our Veterans and them getting fair treatment. More should be done for our youth on the reservations especially developing more arts programs. 24 - WOTN-The Magazine

A LITTLE MORE ABOUT ME... My favorite food: Sloppy Joes My favorite drink: POM CRANBERRY My favorite fruit: Mangos My favorite music genre: Country...Duh ;) My favorite music artist/group: Shania Twain My favorite car: ummm don’t have any... My favorite cereal: Captain Crunch My favorite NBA team: I don’t watch sports ;( My favorite NFL team: I don’t watch sports ;( My favorite MLB team: I don’t watch sports ;( My favorite college team: Got Utah Utes.. Gottah stay local baby An Arts & Entertainment Publication

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PHOTOS BY LT Ever since I was a little kid, I’ve had a weird passion for photography. When my mother went to the grocery store, I would ask if I could go, and once there I would go directly to the magazine rack and page through the magazines. There were so many to look at, and before I had a chance to look at more, my mom would be done shopping and I was dragged away. Later in life, and I bought a decent camera and began taking pictures. Mainly, I took images of people and landscapes. I don’t claim to be professional, more like a good snap-shooter. I just like taking photos. If I was a professional, I would probably charge minimal. But, I’ve seen photography and equipment go from film to digital formats. It’s been great and sad at the same time. I was invited to a birthday party in the desert, so I quickly took photos before the sunlight disappeared. I hope you enjoy them. “I love good photography”! LT

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There are many ways, but today we’ll show you how to do it another way.

First, chop up and sauteed some onions

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Add sauteed onions and mushrooms, cheese and hot green chile onto patty 1

and sauteed some mushrooms

flatten two patties approximately 6” inches diameter

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and place patty 2 on top and crimp edges together

Cook your massive burger thoroughly on both sides on grill or pan.

A tasteful cut away view of your new creation!

A COLOSSAL BURGER FOR A GIANT APPETITE CAUTION: May contain more calories than you can handle. An Arts & Entertainment Publication

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Wilfred Jumbo of Two Grey Hills, NM turned a required high school senior project into “Jumbo Creations”. His project was to feature his own “clothing line” and did it with a 2012 calendar. He asked his classmates if they wanted to be in a calendar and they gladly stepped forward. All of the clothing pieces in the calendar were designed and made by him, while he was in high school. The images inside of the calendar were shot in Two Grey Hills. Wilfred is a 2011 graduate of Navajo Preparatory School in Farmington, New Mexico. (Wilfred Jumbo is featured below)

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Continued From Page 13

Harrison Dehiya: Broadcasting in Navajo

It is this evening job that drew the attention of a Sports Illustrated reporter. Harrison started announcing sports during his six-year stint at another Navajo radio station, KTNN in Window Rock. Harrison says, “In the early 90s they wanted to start a sports program. They wanted a Navajo announcer to do sports and I said 'I'll try.' I tried it and it stuck on me. So I'm still doing it.” Years before as he listened to Howard Cosell call Mohammad Ali boxing matches, Harrison wondered if it could possibly be done in Navajo. It is a descriptive language that often uses a whole sentence to say what can be said in only one or two English words. In Navajo, there is often no word or phrase for a certain play or penalty. For example, an illegal block translates as “there is no law, there is no reason to do that.” Playing a variety of sports as a youth helped Harrison picture the play and come up with descriptive terminology. Like the Code Talkers, he developed a vocabulary - one that his audience understands and one that rolls off the tongue quickly and easily during fast-paced action. Harrison says that football is easier than basketball because it is slower. There is a little more time to talk, such as when players go into a huddle and during passes. High school basketball is the most difficult because it is so fast. “You just have to really keep up with it. Your mouth 42 - WOTN-The Magazine

has to be ahead of your mind. After doing it so many years, it just comes naturally to me,” says Harrison. “Since Navajo was my first language, that helps out, too. You try not to get lost when doing it in Navajo. You just want to be on top of it, the way the professional sportscasters do.” Harrison is one of only two announcers who cover local sports in Navajo, so he stays busy and has developed quite a following. People often ask when and where he will be next to announce a game. Local sports are a huge part of community life, with tremendous support for the home team, especially in the play-offs. The station also broadcasts all-star games in Arizona and New Mexico. He says, “Parents and grandparents come up to us and really thank us for broadcasting in Navajo. When there is a game and there are some Navajos – older or younger Navajos – who have portable radios and headphones, they are listening to us, right along with the game.” Navajo broadcasting, particularly the games, help keep the language vital and interesting for young people. Harrison says his broadcasts are even used in Navajo language classes in Gallup, Chuska and Wingate. Harrison says, “I hope when I retire, someone of the younger generation will be in my seat.” An Arts & Entertainment Publication

The Walker and the Robbery By Catharine Parks J.D. came through the door a bit breathless and upset. He handed me the bag with bread in it, shut the door and placed his walker in the corner. He looked at me and said, "you'll never believe what happened to me. I went into the store, bought the bread and when I came out four undercover cops held guns on me, and said I was under arrest." "They handcuffed me, and put me in the back of the police car. When I asked why they had arrested me, they said they were told by several people that I had been seen running from the bank." He took his glasses off and wiped them, then put them back on. "I asked them what bank, and they told me the Bank of Montreal on Dundas St. in downtown London." I looked at them and said, "Oh that bank, yeah I was there twice. The first time I robbed the bank and the second time I had to go back down there to get my walker." "I pointed to my walker which stood about five feet away, just outside the store. One cop sat in the front seat and the other one stood talking to me by the back seat of the car. One of them asked me why I needed the walker. I told them I had my knee replaced due to an old injury." I noticed his hands were shaking a bit from the ordeal. He went to the sink, grabbed a glass and filled it with water, and continued the story. "The cop in the front seat said that he had to talk to his partner and then got out of the car. They stood a distance away from the car talking, then within five minutes they returned, uncuffed me and said I could go." J.D. finished drinking his water, put the glass in the sink and turned to me, "Those a@#$%^*! They stood there watching me as I walked down the street with my walker." "Well, that is incredible..are you alright." I noticed that he had finally stopped shaking and was calming down. "You would think the cops would have gotten more information from whoever gave the description." J.D. shook his head in disgust and walked into the living room. He went over and sat in his chair, and turned on the TV to watch his favorite tv show, Bad Boys. Catharine Parks writes from true life experiences. She is a published author and invites you to escape into the world of life experiences seen through the eyes of humor, or life's downfalls, the escapades of pet heroism, or the titillating paranormal experiences that have affected her life and those around her.

Tamara Chee - 2008 Women of the Navajo Model Photography by Larry Price â&#x20AC;˘ Clothing by Navajo Spirit An Arts & Entertainment Publication

Sit back in your favorite chair, relax and stop by her website to read her articles and short stories at http://catharineparks.blogspot.com/ Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Catharine_Parks

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