The Big Forest Nation

The M. E. Lyons YMCA

April 2002 - Smoke Signal

You know time flies like the eagle when you're a member of the Big Forest Nation! Almost as soon as it gets started you find the events are almost over for the program year. We find ourselves now in the month of the Flower Moon as spring and outdoor events like the Spring Cookout are upon us. Read on for more on that later in this Smoke Signal. In case you missed it the following tells the story of the past winter events.

As you know the mighty tree has played an important part in Native American living and the same goes for Y-Indians. For example, many Braves, Princesses, and Guides gathered on the great expansive "plane" to enjoy the Roller Skating event. Fun and games were the order of the day. It's always good to see everyone (especially the dads) brushing up on his or her technique.

And how could any Y-Indian enjoy the Bowling event without going to the Cherry Grove to roll stones at 10 standing sticks. It just wouldn't be the same. You need a place for the Braves strong right arms to throw the first ball while the Braves figure out how to knock the rest down that are standing on the second roll. Funny how often it works out that the young members of the Nation knock down more pins.

Finally, the Pinewood Derby (no explanation needed of this Y-Indian tradition) was once again an exciting time for all. A great number turned out bringing what was once a block of wood and turning it into an artistic racing machine. Congratulations to the various award winners and especially everyone who participated.

Nation
Award Winner Tribe
1st Place MacKenzie A. Comanche
2nd Place Kevin K.

Potawatomi

3rd Place Brenna W.

Sioux

4th Place Brogan O.

Potawatomi

3rd Grade
Award Winner Tribe
1st Place Brogan O. Potawatomi
Runner Up Taylor A.

Comanche

Most Original Briana S. Walla Walla
Most Decals Roman B. Thunderbirds
Best Indian Theme Katie S. Chippewa
Judge's Choice Sarah B. Cheyenne
2nd Grade
Award Winner Tribe
1st Place Kevin K. Potawatomi
Runner Up Allison R. Cheyenne
Most Original Julie F. Miami
Most Decals Patrick R. Thunderbirds
Best Indian Theme Jake H. Shawnee
Judge's Choice David W. Oneida
1st Grade
Award Winner Tribe
1st Place Brenna W. Sioux
Runner Up Olivia C. Chippewa
Most Original Kristen M. Chippewa
Most Decals Max G. Shawnee
Best Indian Theme Kelsey S. Shawnee
Judge's Choice Blaire O. Chippewa
Kindergarten
Award Winner Tribe
1st Place MacKenzie A. Commanche
Runner Up Caroline J. Sioux
Most Original Alyssa F. Mohicans
Most Decals Haley F. Cheyenne
Best Indian Theme Luke H. Shawnee
Judge's Choice Beth P. Mohicans

Let's hear it for the Shawnee and Miami tribes, the High Council (especially the Chief and Medicine Man) and various others who made these events happen: WHOOP, WHOOP and WHOOP! Thanks so much.

What's on the horizon? The Spring Cookout! See the attached flyer and mark your calendars. It should be a relaxing and great social activity. And don't forget to bring your favorite side dish or dessert depending on your last name (first or last half of alphabet). We are hoping the Great Spirit will hold off the April showers, but rest assured either way the grill fires will be burning. (P.S. Just in case hold off practicing those rain dances, okay?)

Come on outdoors and join the Nation for the remaining events:

2001-2002 Events

As a reminder you might make note of the Campout at your next tribe meeting. Ready the tribal property and make sure your chief has his peace pipe and your tribe has a skit or song for the Saturday evening council fire. Looking forward to seeing you there for a weekend of memories to come.

In case you need to contact any one the following are the members of the 2001-2002 High Council.

Contact the High Council

If you have any questions feel free to contact anyone of us above. And don't forget our website located at www.bigforest.org as it includes contact and up-to-date event information. It also includes a place for your tribe to put their own information in, such as pictures or member's Indian names (avoid real names or other private information).

May the Great Spirit be with you until we meet again!

Jim Farmer
Nation Talleykeeper