Diné Bizaad

Revised Song for Saturday

2011-04-06T15:18:00.000-07:00

Here is the revised song for Saturday! Jolyana says to keep practicing!

First Song-Revised by sharontom2010

New Practice Song!

2011-03-30T23:37:00.000-07:00

Jolyana wanted me to upload the "First Song" by Jay Begaye to practice in time for the Turquoise and Silver Ball on April 9. Please let me know if you are having problems downloading this practice song. Enjoy!

First Song-Jay Begaye by Dine Class

Singing Class - April Schedule

2010-04-08T18:08:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

April's singing class will be this Saturday, April 10 at the Phoenix Indian Center
12:30 pm for the PIC performance practice and
1:00 to 2:00 pm for the regular singing class session.

This is a friendly reminder.

This is a good opportunity to brush up on the song, Dzilth Dadiyinii for this weekend.

Dzilth Dadi Yinii2 by Dine Class

No Weaving Class Tomorrow

2010-04-02T13:24:00.000-07:00

Jolyana is cancelling her weaving class for tomorrow since she is back home this weekend. Freddie Johnson will be doing a Culture Class presentation on the month of April/spring season for the Intermediate Navajo class in the morning.

Take care everyone and have a great holiday weekend!

Dine Culture Class to Start March 31

2010-03-29T17:18:00.001-07:00

A new culture class will be offered this coming Wednesday by Freddie Johnson. Welcome Back Freddie!

It's not too late to sign up!

Classes will be held every Wednesday

6:00pm – 7:00pm

Phoenix Indian Center GED Classroom Suite 250

4520 N. Central Ave.

Phoenix AZ 85012

For more information contact: Freddie Johnson @602.264.6768; fax 602.274.7486 or fjohnson@phxindcenter.org

For all ages! Everyone is welcomed!

Navajo Song Files Available Again Online

2010-03-29T11:15:00.000-07:00

I recently uploaded all the new song files to the Soundcloud music service for all the class members to access the music we have practiced and learned the last year. Unfortunately, the music service I used in the past year was bought out by another company and all the web links featured in previous blog posts were not working. I apologize for this and hope that the new service will be even better. Class members will now be able to not only listen to the files as we upload them to the blog, but you should be able download the music to your hard drives for listening or using as you wish to practice the songs.

The songs have all been compiled into a special Dine Class playlist and includes a lot of the older and newer song selections we recorded in the last year. I also have relinked all previous song files in previous posts on this blog to the new service. The link is:

SoundCloud Dine Class Playlist

Again, I apologize for the delay in providing the music files and let me know if you have any issues accessing the music by leaving a comment in the blog or emailing me at shtom@cox.net.

Sharon

Diné Professor Presents Long Walk and Diné Language Lecture

2010-03-25T11:22:00.001-07:00

Phoenix Indian Center, ASU Center for Indian Education, and Central HS Native American Youth Council Present:

Dr. Evangeline Parsons-Yazzie Reading and Lecture

March 27, 2010
Saturday 10:00am –3:00pm
Central HS Auditorium
4525 N. Central Ave. Phoenix AZ 85012
(Parking on South side of Auditorium, right off of North-bound Central Ave
Free Admission

SESSION I
10:00am –12:00 pm: Diné Long Walk
Evangeline Parsons-Yazzie, EdD professor at Northern Arizona University will be reading from her notably acclaimed children’s book, Dzání Yázhí Naazbaa’: Little Woman Warrior Who Came Home: A Story of the Navajo Long Walk. An avid storyteller, she will be retelling the story of the Diné Long Walk through her book which is sure to be a fine historical lesson from the Diné perspective.

12:00pm: LUNCH on your own.
(Food concession provided by Central HS-NAYC)

SESSION II
1:00pm -3:00pm: A look at Diné Language
Dr. Parsons Yazzie will discuss her recent textbook, Diné Bizaad Bínáhoo’aah: Rediscovering the Navajo Language. She will take us on a journey about the creation of the textbook, the Diné writing process, and about the importance of the Diné language to enlighten learners who will hopefully appreciate the textbook even more.

For more information contact Freddie Johnson at the Phoenix Indian Center,
602.264.6768 or fjohnson@phxindcenter.org

Cleaning the Wool-Another Part of the Weaving Process

2010-03-10T10:10:00.000-08:00

The class gathered to clean wool that was donated by a local farmer during one of our class sessions. Both parents and students shared in the task and although it was a little messy, the wool was cleaned. The wool will be carded and spun into yarn.

Some class participants have made enormous progress. One person, Sheila Lopez-Aguirre completed her first rug! This is a special present for her daughter. Congratulations Sheila!

The donation to the Weaving Class posed an interesting problem since we didn't have cleaning facilities to work with at the Phoenix Indian Center and you know Dine people always learn to improvise. We decided to take our wool to the alley and started the cleaning process.

We set up buckets/containers and got to work. This is elbow grease at work, all of the class members took a turn at cleaning the wool.

The weaving process is a generational one and we wanted the little ones to take a part. They thought it was messy at first but they got right in there and helped out. They ended up having some fun.

Next, the wool was laid out to start drying out. We had a challenge since we didn't really have a designated area to do this. The class made it work.

The wool is all laid out and ready to dry in the sun. It was an interesting and everyone had a good time helping out.

Singing Class - March Schedule

2010-03-09T10:00:00.000-08:00

Hello PIC Navajo Singers,

Hope you are all doing well! Our class for March is going to be on the 3rd Saturday of this month.

Please join us on Saturday March 20th from 1-3 at the Phoenix Indian Center.

Let's expand our song list. Bring a favorite song to share with the class.

See you soon!

Thanks,

Petra

Native American Children's Christmas Benefit Concert

2009-12-04T13:48:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year again and this annual event will be tomorrow! Our own PIC Navajo Singing group will be on the lineup of performers, so join us! The Benefit Concert is a community effort for the past nine years led by the Phoenix Native American community. Donated toys and clothing goes to homeless or indigent Native American children.

Children's Christmas Benefit Concert

December 5th, 6pm - 10pm

ASU Tempe Campus

Memorial Union, Ventana Room 241, 2nd Floor

1290 S. Normal Ave. Tempe, AZ 85287-0901

Information Desk: (480) 965-5728

* 5:50 p.m.: Introduction/Welcome notes
*
* 6:00-6:20: Phoenix Indian Center’s Navajo Singing Group
*
* 6:30-6:50: Yellow Bird Indian Dancers
*
* 7:00-7:25: Socie
*
* 7:35-8:00: The Cremains
*
* 8:10-8:35: Artificial Red
*
* 8:40-9:20: Clan/Destine II
*
* 9:30-10:10: Keith Secola

Songlist:
GROUP
Dzil Dadiyinii
Basket Dance Song

KIDS
Fry Bread Song
Lii Shee Holo Dooleel
Kiizh

GROUP
Shi Nasha
Shikeyah Nizhonee Binashniih
Life is Good

Keshmish Tsiin
Keshmish Tsiin by Dine Class

Laanaa Ya’at’ee go Keshmish
Y'aa'teehgo Keshmish by Dine Class

Come On Santa (Come Chi’zhii Remix)
Come on Santa-Chizzhi by Dine Class

When I See You Again
When I See You Again by Dine Class

Don't forget to bring a toy or article of clothing to benefit a child in need this holiday season.

See you tomorrow evening!

Weaving Worlds and Miss Navajo-Showing on Channel 8 Tonight

2009-11-23T14:38:00.001-08:00

There's an interesting documentary I came across recently and it's being featured on Channel 8 at 5pm and 10pm tonight. So set your VCRs or DVRs to record.

The documentary is described as:

"How Navajo rug weavers fit into the global economy. Included: interviews with Navajo weavers; the link between weaving and family relations; the interdependency between indigenous artisans and Anglo traders."

Weaving Worlds

Weaving World press info

The other documentary, Miss Navajo, will also be showing tonight at 11pm.
Miss Navajo

A number of people will be going to the Harvest Dinner hosted by Freddie and the Dine Language Program at the Mesa Public Schools District Office this evening, so hope to see you there!

A Gathering of Weavers: Navajo Weavers Marketplace

2009-09-22T14:38:00.000-07:00

Leontine just sent this information and I'm passing this on. Could this be a possible field trip for the class?

More than 60 Navajo weavers are expected to gather to show and sell their textiles on Saturday, November 7 at the Gathering of Weavers: Navajo Weavers Marketplace at the Heard Museum. The event takes place in the enchanting Central Courtyard from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Book signings, a film, lectures and demonstrations are all part of this second annual event.

Gathering of Weavers at the Heard

Looks like a good resource for all types of weaving information!
Save the date.

Post-Gathering Update
The trip to the Gathering of Weavers was great and eye-opening. So much talent among all the weavers who were from different parts of the Navajo Nation. Every weaver had a different style/technique to share and it was a great education for all of us. Some did traditional types of weaving and patterns and others were more contemporary. One person even demonstrated dyeing techniques. All in all, it was a great field trip and hope they have it again next year!

Dine Storytelling Tomorrow Night

2009-09-22T13:07:00.000-07:00

Diné Book of Life-The Crystal Fire Child

presented by Steve Darden and the Phoenix Indian Center, Inc.

“The hand is a veritable book. This Diné book is to be our daily guide to honor the teaching that we are all crystal fire children. As crystal fire children we learned that each circumstance and/or situation which we encounter in life must be looked at from a minimum of twelve different perspectives. The Diné refer to themselves as Bíla’ashdla’ii (five-fingered ones). This presentation will also entail the Diné person's responsibility for stewardship of this book of life and the sacred elements and other gifts offered for our daily utilization by the Holy People. As a crystal fire child we grow into maturation obtaining wisdom, knowledge, understanding, and insight to guide us along with the journey songs. Each direction and sacred mountain offers each Diné person the gifts to guide us in our interactions with all of life here upon Mother Earth and within Father Sky.” Respectfully, Steven A. Darden

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

6:00pm to 8:00pm

Phoenix Indian Center

6^th Floor Conference Room

4520 N. Central Ave.

Phoenix AZ 85012

This event is FREE and open to the public.

There will be refreshments available.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT FREDDIE JOHNSON (602)264-6768

Or email: fjohnson@phxindcenter.org website: www.phxindcenter.org

Beginning the Loom Warping

2009-09-18T15:03:00.000-07:00

We have been making excellent progress in the weaving class the last two weeks. Everyone is excited to set up their looms and is preparing the warp for each one. There is a lot of preparation involved before the actual weaving can began. We will be weaving miniature rugs to make it easier to learn.

Jolyana’s mother came from the reservation to demonstrate the warping and it involves wrapping many rows of wool or warping wool around two separate dowels or posts. The tension used in warping is very important since we are trying to prevent the warp from breaking but still remain tight enough to produce a good weave.

Everyone then began warping their own looms. Many had family members who came to help at our second class and it was a great day of camaraderie as everyone helped each other set up the warping of the looms.

After the warping was complete, we began the twining process at the top and bottom. This involves twisting and incorporating the twine into each of the warping threads and a strip of wool. This will hold the warping threads together when it is moved to the loom.

A selvage is completed at the each end and now the warp is ready to be tied and stretched onto two dowels. The dowels will be attached to the main loom.

After the warp is attached to the loom, it is tightened with suspension and tension. Some used ropes and others used cables.

Once the loom is up, a heddle stick is set in every other warp thread so that every other warp can be picked up and separated to add the wool. A shed stick will be used to pick up the other warp thread. This was a fun process and requires concentration.

We met Labor Day weekend for class but it was raining and storming so we decided to use the time to create a design for our rugs. Jolyana suggested making a simple pattern using grid paper since it will be the first rug for some. Once the rains stopped, we finished setting up some of the looms. Next class we will be helping everyone finish up their warping and creating their shed sticks. The weaving process will begin after this.

Freddie just announced he received a donation of wool for carding and spinning. Let the fun begin. For many, we remember carding the wool for our grandmothers, mothers and aunties. Using the spindle was always interesting too.

Weaving Class Has Begun!

2009-08-24T17:06:00.000-07:00

A nice-sized group of women and children gathered for the Fall Navajo Weaving Class this past Saturday. Many have grandmothers and mothers who weave and are now interested in taking the class as a way to continue this cultural tradition for themselves and their children. Jolyana Bistuie and Freddie Johnson discussed the many facets of Dine weaving and the cultural meaning/traditions behind the loom and the instruments used in weaving. As a class, we will learn the basic do's and don'ts involved in Dine weaving. Everyone is encouraged to bring items from home that they would like to share with the rest of the class including handouts, books, or rugs they have at home.

The class was encouraged to assemble their own looms or to purchase a loom through Jolyana or Freddie. There will be looms built by Freddie for future classes to use such as the one pictured here.

We also will have cultural consultants/weaving specialists bring in their items for sale for the class. While some participants have their own instruments/looms, others will have an opportunity to purchase needed items in class or through the program. Mary Walker from Weaving in Beauty brought battens and combs for sale and intends to come to future classes. You can also see the link to Weaving in Beauty in the blog sidebar if you would like more information about this group of women who is bringing weaving back to life.

Jolyana shared a beautiful rug woven by her grandmother as a wedding gift. Freddie also shared about the weaving done by his mother and her specialty in weaving "biil" (rug) dresses for family members and others.

This will be an exciting journey for many of us and we hope to show our progress week by week. In the next class we intend to add the warp to each of our looms. We will have more pictures to show you as the class and learning unfolds!

Diné Language Fall 2009 Classes!

2009-08-12T16:17:00.000-07:00

Hurry and register today! Classes start August 22nd.

Children’s Diné Language Classes

Mesa Public School, Saguaro Room #209 (2^nd Floor): Starts: August 24^th, 2009

Monday nights: 6:00 to 7:00pm – Instructor Freddie Johnson

Learn about Diné language from a traditional perspective using the Diné way of teachings. Open to all ages, families welcomed. This will be a Beginning Navajo class, classes will involve activities, games, and storytelling. FREE!

Diné Culture Classes

Phoenix Indian Center, Starts August 26^th, 2009

Every Wednesday night 6:00-7:30pm - Instructor; Freddie Johnson

Learn about self identity using the Diné Clan Philosophy through Diné Oral Traditions. Lots of Storytelling through videos and literature. Great for all ages. FREE!

Beginning Navajo II

Phoenix Indian Center, Starts August 22^nd, 2009

Every Saturday 9:00am – 11:00am – Instructor Jolyana Bitsuie

This is a continuing class of Beginning Navajo I from the Summer session. New students are welcomed to join. Materials fee - $25.00

NEW CLASS!! Introduction to Navajo Weaving

Phoenix Indian Center, Starts August 22^nd, 2009

Every Saturday, 11:30am to 1:30pm: Instructor; Jolyana Bitsuie

Learn how to weave by setting up your own loom. Stories will be shared about the importance of weaving and how it plays a role in Diné society. Students are required to pay a materials fee of $35.00, there will be additional tools that the student will be responsible for acquiring such as the weaving comb, the batten and a loom. LIMITED TO THE FIRST 15 STUDENTS WHO PAY THEIR MATERIALS FEE.

Classes are not for credit.

Non Navajos wishing to take these classes may do so for a fee of $150. Classes are free to Navajo families in the greater Maricopa County. Non-Navajo inlaws to Diné families are welcomed.

LOCATION OF CLASSES:

MESA PUBLIC SCHOOL, Student Services Building, Saguaro Room #209 (2^nd Floor), 1025 N. Country Club Drive, Mesa, AZ 85021

PHOENIX INDIAN CENTER, GED Classroom, 2nd floor, 4520 N. Central Ave., Suite 250, Phoenix, AZ 85012

All classes will teach the proper Diné Introduction.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT; FREDDIE JOHNSON AT (602) 264-6768 EXT.2305 Fax (602 )274-7486

Email fjohnson@phxindcenter.org website: www.phxindcenter.org

New Songs!

2009-07-22T22:06:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone! It's been a busy summer with the class learning a few new songs. We now have some of them available.

Ch'iiyaan Biyin (Food Song)
This is a song about food (ch'iiyaan). A good way to incorporate familiar words for different types of food. It is similar to the tune, "If You're Happy and You Know It." A good way to teach younger children words involving food.

Ch'iyaan Biyiin by Dine Class

Let's Dance Over Here
This is a social song. This is a new song.

Let's Dance Over Here by Dine Class

Shi Awee Alts'iisi (My Little Baby)
This is a nice lullaby for the little ones. This is a song by Sharon Burch.

Shi Awee Alts'iisi by Dine Class

I will post more songs later and develop a playlist for anyone who wants to keep a record of all the songs taught in the Summer class session.

Rug Weaving Class (New this Fall)
Keep posted for information on Fall session classes. There are a number of new ideas including a Rug Weaving class for anyone interested. The Rug Weaving class will involve miniature, individual rugs that the students can learn to weave. Contact Jolyana at jolyanabegay@yahoo.com if you need more information. She will have more information as we get closer to the class starting date regarding materials and fee for the class.

ASU Commencement Video and Hweeldi Lecture

2009-06-09T16:40:00.000-07:00

I hope you are having a great start to the summer! There are a couple of things I wanted to forward including an announcement for an upcoming event. Have a great summer and travel safely if you are going anywhere for the summer. Hope to see you soon!

ASU Commencement Video
Petra forwarded a recent video clip offered by her friend. It shows the group at the ASU commencement. It's a nice video of our performance. Group performance starts at about 3 minutes. Enjoy!

Hweeldi Lecture
Phoenix Indian Center, Inc. and Mesa Public School present:
The Diné Long Walk
By: Mr. Bennie Silversmith
June 24, 2009
6:00pm – 8:00pm
Mesa Public School - Student Services Center
Grand Canyon Room 1025 N. Country Club
(SE corner of 10th Street and Country Club - South of Brown Road)
Mesa, AZ
Free Admission/Free Refreshments

An unforgettable Diné History lesson! Thousands of Diné people; infants to elders, the sick and the weak, were forced to march hundreds of miles away from their sacred homelands to a Fort Sumner in Bosque Redondo, NM. Diné people were held captives for five years before the signing of the Treaty of 1868.

Long Walk Video
I recently found this on youtube, coincidentally while viewing the ASU video. It's a 10 part series regarding the Long Walk. It's a documentary that I did not hear of previously and if you have a chance, take a look at it. You will have to click on each part individually to continue viewing, it's not offered in one video so you will have to click on the next part. It has many interviews with historians, elders and community members discussing this traumatic event.

Diné Language 2009 Summer Classes

2009-06-09T16:33:00.000-07:00

Phoenix Indian Center will have Summer Diné language classes from June 15 to July 25.
Pass the Word!

Diné Culture Classes: June 17 -July 22, 2009
Instructor: Freddie Johnson
Wednesday nights: 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Learn about self identity using the Diné Clan Philosophy through Diné Oral Traditions, Guest speakers and presentations.

Children’s Navajo Singing Class: June 20-July 25, 2009
Instructor: Jolyana Bitsuie
Classes will be held every Saturday. 11:30am - 1:30pm
For children ages 7-13, this class will focus on learning basic Navajo vocabulary words, stories, and songs through fun hands-on activities and projects.

*Beginning Navajo Class: June 15-July 22, 2009
Instructor: Jolyana Bitsuie
Monday and Wednesday: 6:00pm - 8:00pm
The class is for the beginning student who wants to learn the Navajo Language. The class will focus on the sound and alphabet system as an introduction to speaking and writing.

*Navajo Literacy: June 20-July 25, 2009
Instructor: Jolyana Bitsuie
Classes will be held every Saturday. 9:00am - 11:00am
This class is for fluent speakers; learn how to read and write in Navajo through poetry, songs, and literature.

*Classes will require a $25 materials fee. Classes are not for credit.

All classes will teach the proper Diné Introduction.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT FREDDIE JOHNSON AT (602)264-6768 EXT.2305 Fax (602)274-7486 or Email: fjohnson@phxindcenter.org

PHOENIX INDIAN CENTER
GED Classroom
4520 N. Central Ave., Suite 250
Phoenix, AZ 85012

What An Experience!

2009-05-18T14:14:00.000-07:00

The week of jam-packed events is over and we have much to celebrate! Thank you to everyone who participated in the ASU commencement and Native American Convocation. You guys were rock stars (quite literally) and it was a great experience for the children and adults. We want to say a big thank you to Jolyana for shepherding our group through two major events. We also want to say thank you to ASU for having us show our culture and treating us very well.

This post will be picture heavy since we have A LOT to share! We had a great time being part of the event on Wednesday, which was historic in and of itself with President Obama set to speak at the Commencement that evening. We had a great time preparing, singing, and enjoying the event from the suites in Sun Devil Stadium.

We arrived at Sun Devil stadium the day before to do a soundcheck and practice. We all started to get the pre-show jitters and reality started to sink we were actually going to sing on a BIG stage. The girls (Amy, Kahara, Sophie, Larissa, Zoey, Allisa, Kaitlin and Monica) practiced the basket dance.

Valerie, Petra, Ann and Antonio helping check the mikes and sound.

It was a scorcher of a day with 102+ degree temps and more than 70,000 people expected to show up for the ceremony. It was quite a sight to see so many people there to check out our singing (J/K).

All the adults and children lined up ready to start the performance.

Kahara, Monica, Zoey and Sophie striking a pose (Leontine and Ann in back).

Our group on stage. We did Shikeyah Nizhoni Benashniih, Dzilth Dadiyinii, and the Basket Dance. We give credit to everyone for learning the Basket Dance and song in less than 2 weeks. It was a lot of work but it really paid off. We thank the girls for putting in so many hours of practice!

After our performance, we got a chance to relax and enjoy the show. Allison, Jackie, Jeron, and Kaitlin watching the festivities. We want to say a huge thank you to Jackie for helping get us prepared and dressed. You were a big part of our performance and appreciate all your help!

Larissa, Jaime and Judy also catch their breath and unwind.

President Obama delivered a great speech and it was wonderful to be there in person to hear him deliver it. There were a number of Native American graduates in the ceremony (more than 300).

Antonio and his girls, Allison and Kaitlin, gearing up for another performance at the ASU Native American Convocation ceremony on Saturday. This was a neat event since we performed at the Gammage Auditorium (where Broadway plays usually are performed in the Valley). The acoustics were great.

We had the chance to meet Peterson Zah, former Navajo chairman and now special Assistant to ASU President Michael Crow. He works on Native American student issues at ASU and we were happy he was there to catch our performance. He said everyone did a great job and was glad to see us perform.

Great job everyone!

No Class Tomorrow

2009-05-08T12:00:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone. There will be no Navajo class tomorrow, May 9 due to Mother's Day weekend. We will meet at Jolyana's on Monday at 5:30. We have new details on the event for Wednesday. Just sending a reminder in case anyone decides to drive to PIC (J/K).

Take care and have a great Mother's Day!

Upcoming Singing Events!

2009-05-04T10:48:00.000-07:00

Most everyone was at class this Saturday, so thanks to everyone for making it! It is exciting to have the opportunity to do these next singing events!

ASU Main Commencement, Wednesday, May 13th, 2:30pm
We will also do a practice session on Tuesday evening, May 12th, Time TBA
Our performance will be at 5:48, and be 5 minutes total.
We will go in 2 vans to this event and so will meet at the Phoenix Indian Center

ASU Native Convocation Ceremony, Saturday, May 16 at 9am
Gammage Auditorium, ASU
We will have about 30 minutes for this performance.

So far we will do 2 songs (Shikeyah Nizhoni and Dzilth Dadayinii) and a Basket Dance to the Feather Dance Song from Delphine Tsinajinnie's album Mother's Word. Here is the song sung by Jolyana.

Basket Dance Jolyana by Dine Class

The following girls will be doing the dance:
Zoey
Kahara
Kaitlin
Larissa
Alissa
Amy
Sophie
Monica

We will be practicing Tuesday and Wednesday, May 5th and 6th and also next week Monday, May 11th at Jolyana's house. We will meet at 5:30 and feel free to bring a potluck or food to share.

On Wednesday, bring your traditional outfits and baskets . We will see what else we will need to coordinate. Any questions or if I left anything out, let me know or give Jolyana a call.

See you Tuesday!

Be There or Be Square!

2009-04-29T17:06:00.000-07:00

Be in Class this Weekend!
Jolyana has some really exciting news to share with you and she is urging you to make it to this week's class on Saturday! We hope you can make it!

We are also working on our new song called The First Song by Jay Begaye. We are trying to work out some of the melodies in time for our upcoming engagements. Some of the notes are low but we are trying to modify them to make it easier for the children to sing.

Navajo Song Playlist
I am also working on preparing the playlist for you to access. I upload all the music files to Imeem and so in my next blog, I will share that with you so you can access the songs all in one place.

Take care everyone and will see you in class!

New Songs!

2009-04-23T21:13:00.000-07:00

We learned some new songs and are gearing up for some new singing engagements. We will announce the events as we get closer to the dates. We hope you have a great time sharing and practicing these songs. I'm sorry this blog posting is a little late but I had computer trouble and couldn't download the songs until today.

Dahdiniilghaazh (Fry Bread Song)
This is a cute song regarding one of our favorite eats! Frybread. This is a good song to teach children.

Dahdiniilghaazh by Dine Class

Lii Shee Holo Dooleel
This is a song about horses (white, yellow, and black).

Lii Shee Holoo Doleel by Dine Class

When I See You Again
This is a really pretty song. It uses both Navajo and English.

When I See You Again by Dine Class

Phoenix Indian Center Gala

2009-04-08T21:08:00.000-07:00

The students and parents did a wonderful job at the annual PIC Gala on Saturday. The students shared what they learned throughout the evening. The group sang during the Silent Auction and opened the festivities with the Blessing Song. We want to thank the PIC for hosting us and making us part of the event!

Thanks everyone for making this a success!

No Class this Weekend
Classes will be cancelled this Saturday due to the Easter holiday. We will resume next week. Any questions, feel free to contact Jolyana. Have a great weekend and see you next week.

Jaimie Nakai and family

Ann Begay and family

Westwood Pow-Wow Pics!

2009-03-31T16:14:00.000-07:00

The group did awesome at the event this past Saturday at the Westwood High School Pow-Wow! Thanks to everyone who made the event! The kids should all be proud for singing in front of a crowd! You did great!

If anyone has any photos to share, feel free to forward them. Take care and see you Saturday for class!

New Songs and Upcoming Singing Events!

2009-03-23T16:02:00.000-07:00

Westwood Pow-Wow Update
This Saturday, March 28th, we will be singing at the Westwood pow-wow. Class will meet as scheduled on Saturday morning as well. Our performance time will be during the Supper break from 5pm to 5:30pm. Gourd Dancing starts at 5:30pm. The Westwood HS pow-wow is having Jr Miss Whiteriver perform during this time as well. She will perform as soon as the color guard retires the colors and then our group will have 15-20 min as well. Please arrive at 4:30 so we can meet before singing.

New Songs
This Saturday, we reviewed some of our previous songs and also learned a new one, which we will sing at the PIC Gala on April 4th. On April 4th, we will meet for our usual class time and then at the Phoenix Indian Center before going to the PIC Gala in Scottsdale.

Shikeyah Nizhonee Binaashniih
This is a really beautiful song we learned from the CD/book, "We'll Be in Your Mountains, We'll Be in Your Songs: A Navajo Woman Sings." We found out it is another song that was sung during the Dine people's internment at Fort Sumner. It speaks to how much the Dine people missed their homeland and were determined to make it back. We will be learning this song for our upcoming singing events, so definitely practice this one.

According to the book, the song translates to:

I remember my beautiful land.
I want to go home now. I am going home now.

Shikeyah Nizhoni Binaashniih by Dine Class

Naaldlooshii (Animals)
This is a neat children's song incorporating the different animals (sheep, goat, cow, horse, donkey, bird, cat, dog, pig, and rooster) and the sounds they make. It is a fun song to teach children. You can also supplement with words and sounds of other animals for more variety.

Naadlooshii by Dine Class

We hope you enjoy these songs. As we get closer to our singing events, we are deciding which songs we will sing. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to add your comment below or email me at shtom@cox.net.

We Shall Remain

2009-03-18T13:43:00.000-07:00

I wanted to let you know that there is a really neat PBS documentary series coming up in April and May. It is called We Shall Remain and is a five-part documentary, part of the American Experience series which will premiere on Monday, April 13. The series will show a new part each Monday starting April 13 and ending May 11 on most PBS stations. I've watched the preview and it is going to be a dynamic series. There are a number of local events being tied into the series including film showings and lectures at local colleges, universities, museums and other organizations.

Below is the link to the website:
We Shall Remain

For the local events (a few listed here in the Phoenix area) go here:
Local Events

I wanted to pass this on since it's always a great learning tool to pass on to our community.

Class Announcements

2009-03-17T10:34:00.000-07:00

Mark Your Calendars! Classes were cancelled last week due to the Spring Break holiday. Jolyana asked me to make two announcements regarding the class. There is a request for the Navajo class students to appear at the 6th Annual Westwood High School Pow-Wow in Mesa on Saturday, March 28. The pow-wow will be held at the Westwood High Football Field. The class will still meet that day as scheduled but for those who are available that evening, Jolyana would like you to meet at the pow-wow to perform during the supper intermission at 5pm that day. If you want more information, contact Jolyana or leave a comment on the blog.

Westwood High School Pow-Wow
Football Field
Saturday, March 28 (supper break)
945 West 8th Street
Mesa AZ 85201

The Phoenix Indian Center Gala has also announced the time and location for the event on April 4th. This is another singing event we have scheduled.

PIC Gala and Art Auction
Scottsdale Resort & Convention Center
Saturday, April 4th
7700 E. McCormick Parkway
Scottsdale AZ 85258

The resort is near Hayden Road and McCormick Parkway (or nearest cross streets Hayden and Indian Bend). The dinner program and entertainment begin at 7 p.m. We'll keep you posted as to how and when we will meet before going over to the PIC Gala. Any questions, contact Jolyana or leave a comment below.

Another Great Class

2009-02-28T19:09:00.000-08:00

Today we recited the Pledge of Allegiance and learned a new song, Dził Dadi Yinii (Four Sacred Mountains) song. We just received notice that we are no longer allowed to sing the Shoe Game Songs so we have removed it from the blog until next winter.

Special News
Congratulations to Jaime Nakai and family on the new addition to their family! A brand new baby boy was born on Monday, February 23rd! We wish Jaime and baby all the best!

Spring Events
We received other exciting news that we have been requested to sing at two events this spring. We are planning to attend the Phoenix Indian Center's annual Gala event in Scottsdale on Saturday evening, April 4. We will post more details as we get closer to the PIC Gala, so stay tuned but we encourage you to mark it on your calendars. We have also been requested to sing at the Alhambra School District's Native American parent advisory dinner. The time and date is being scheduled. These are great opportunities for the kids to demonstrate their talent and pride in their culture. We encourage everyone (both students and parents) to dress in your traditional outfits but if you need help obtaining something to wear, we will do our best to coordinate this as a group.

We are practicing some possible new song selections including Dził Dadi Yinii for this event. We encourage you to listen to the new song and practice before the next class. If you need a copy of the song, please email shtom@cox.net for a copy or leave a comment in the Comments section and we will email you a copy of the song.

Dahnaat'áí Bee Hodilzin (Pledge of Allegiance)
This is the Navajo version of the Pledge of Allegiance that is often recited in American classrooms. It is not an exact translation but the Diné interpretation of the Pledge of Allegiance.

Pledge of Allegiance by Dine Class

Dził Dadi Yinii (Four Sacred Mountains)
This song explains the relationship of the Diné people to the Four Sacred Mountains (Sisnaajínii (Mt. Blanca), Tsoodził (Mt. Taylor), Dook'oo'oosłííd (San Francisco Peak) and Dibé Nitsaa (Mt. Hesperus). The knowledge of the Four Sacred Mountains is very important to the Diné people since we use it to identify our homeland and our place as Dine people within the boundaries of these mountains.

Dzilth Dadi Yinii2 by Dine Class

Baa Hózhǫǫgo Ninááhai (Happy Birthday)
Jolyana taught us this version to sing at our next birthday party. We hope you enjoy singing this version of the popular song.

Birthday Song by Dine Class

Feel free to practice the songs as much as you can and we'll see you next class!

I also just found the Navajo version of Wikipedia! The neat things you learn while surfing the web. Hope you enjoy seeing this. It looks like a basic starting page but needs editors who can write in Navajo.
Navajo Language Wikipedia

New Songs!

2009-02-21T18:34:00.000-08:00

Today we had another Navajo Singing class. We went over previous songs we learned including Shi Naasha and Ne'ashjaa' (Owl) Shoe Game Song. We also learned a new one, Iina Baa Hozho. Everyone was enthusiastic to be part of the new recordings. We hope that those who were not able to make it, that you are able to listen to the songs. If you need a copy of the songs, please email shtom@cox.net for a pdf copy of the songs we learned and went over. Iina Baa Hozho is the new song we learned.

Shi Naasha:
Shi Naasha by Dine Class

Ne'ashjaa' (Navajo Shoe Game Song)
Note: Due to the change in the season, we are no longer able to provide this Shoe Game Song. We are sorry but we must follow our traditions and adhere to our beliefs that when the Spring season arrives, we no longer should sing Winter songs and or play Winter games (Shoe game and string games).

Iina Baa Hozho (Life is Good)
Iina Baa Hozho by Dine Class

We hope you have a great time learning these songs and please feel free to contact Jolyana if you have any questions or leave a comment in the Comments section. Thanks!

Rez Basketball Update

2009-02-18T10:00:00.000-08:00

Just a little tidbit for those of you who love basketball and want to know about Arizona teams.

According to a recent email from community member Anthony Kahn:

The 3A boys and girls state basketball tournament starts on Friday. Six rez girls team made the 16 team state tournament. The boys bracket will be released soon, pending an AIA investigation of Globe for using a suspected ineligible player.

Chinle boys won the 3A North tournament, in front of 8,000 screaming fans. Monument Valley girls snapped Winslow's 30-game winning streak and won the 3A North girls tournament. Another tourney highlight/low light (depending where you are from) was Winslow boys beating Window Rock, despite trailing by 24 in the 3rd quarter.

A change in the state tournament locations has the first two rounds being played at the high school of the higher seed team. In the past, the first 2 rounds were played in the NAU Skydome to accommodate the thousands of fans from the reservation. So look for rez teams to be playing here (in small high school gyms) in the Valley on Feb 20 and 28. Final Four will be played at Jobing.com Arena on March 6; and finals on March 7.

Boys Hoops: Chinle Wins North Region

Boys Hoops: Winslow Storms Back for Upset

Boys Hoops: Holbrook Hangs On for Third Place

Breaking away from AIA's Control?

Anyway, I thought this would be of interest to you and hope you get a chance to support our Navajo teams as they come to the Valley! For more information, you can go to the Arizona Interscholastic Association's website: AIA.org website.

Hoop of Learning Program

2009-02-09T15:29:00.000-08:00

I wanted to announce to any families who have 9th through 12th grade students that there is a program called Hoop of Learning that is coordinated by the Maricopa County Community College system. They are offering Navajo language and government classes through this program. If you want more information, please contact Lynette Jim at South Mountain Community College. She will be more than happy to answer questions about the program or enrollment. Hoop of Learning is a great academic enrichment program to help local Native American high school students earn extra credit and get an early start in their college studies. Programs and classes offered county-wide. If you want more information, see the requirements below and contact Lynette.

Click on the link below to see the website information.

Hoop of Learning

Hoop of Learning Spring 2009 Course Offering

NAV102 Section # 47172 1/21/09 - 05/15/09
Elementary Navajo II M/W 6:00 - 7:15 pm
(Student will need to speak with instructor for late registration admittance.)

AIS105 Section # 42831 2/14/09 - 5/19/09
Intro to American Indian Studies Saturday 8:30 am - 12:00 pm

AIS110 Section # TBA 2/17/09 - 5/12/09
Navajo Government Tuesday 5:30 - 8:30 pm

AAA150 Section # TBA 2/14/09 - 5/9/09
Strategies for College Success Saturday 12:15 - 3:15 pm
(This course is required for all New Hoop of Learning students.)

All students will be required to complete the following:

* Hoop of Learning application (PUHSD students must contact your Native American Advisor) & SMCC Student Information Form (SIF)

* Declaration of Citizenship Form - Accepted documents: Tribal Enrollment form, AZ ID/Driver License, Birth Certificate

* Request for Admission Students Under the Age of 18 form

* This forms requires a signature from your high school administrator and parent(s)

To obtain more information on assessment testing please visit our website @ http://students.southmountaincc.edu/Services/AssessmentServices/. You will need to bring a picture ID to take the test. Scholarship may be available for qualified students.

For more information, contact Lynette Jim at 602-243-8314 or by email at lynette.jim@smcmail.maricopa.edu.
Thank you for your interest!

New Spring Classes!

2009-02-09T15:16:00.001-08:00

The 2009 Spring Navajo classes are underway. The Singing class has a lot of new students and it is really neat to see both parents and children learning new songs together. This week we learned Shi Naasha. One of the classic Navajo songs a lot were taught as children. It is a song commemorating the Dine people's survival and return from Hweeldi (Fort Sumner). Last week we started to learn a Shoe Game song since this is the season for Shoe Games and we are learning it before the weather changes.

Shoe Game Songs
In Navajo tradition, these songs are to be sung or played only in the winter or the Navajo will suffer misfortune and bad weather. In the original Shoe Game, the night animals, who wanted only nighttime, played against the day animals, who wanted only daytime. Fortunately, the game ended in a tie, and we now have both night and day. Today these Shoe Game songs, which tell of the animals and the giant, are featured in the gambling game in which members of two teams try to keep their opponents from finding an object hidden in a shoe or moccasin.
Navajo Songs from Canyon De Chelly liner notes

We are also learning the Pledge of Allegiance in our language and before you know it, we will be saying it before every class from memory

Please feel free to make any comments under any of the posts. Click on the Comment link, sign in your name and you can make a suggestion or comment at any time.

Beginning next week we will post a recording after the class so you can follow along or rehearse the songs you have learned at the last session.

Again, I want to thank Jolyana for her knowledge and making the classes a lot of fun!

Diné Heritage

2009-01-12T14:18:00.000-08:00

Keeping Our Culture
The Phoenix Indian Center has been the central hub for Diné (Navajo) Language instruction in the Phoenix metro area. A number of students and their parents joined the Navajo Singing class in August for the Fall 2008 class to learn traditional Diné songs from Jolyana Begay-Bitsuie, Navajo Language teacher and instructor, during the fall.

(left to right: Olivia Shorty, Monica Sekaquaptewa, Josiah Neswood, Zoey Hodges, Kahara Hodges, and Uriah Begay)

Our wonderful children at the Luke Air Force Base youth center during November. They demonstrated Diné song and dance to the youth center students. We are so proud of how fast they have learned Diné words and pronunciation since the class started.

Jolyana explained the meaning of the Navajo words and songs to the youth center students and led the Navajo class students in a round dance. The youth center students were very enthusiastic to be part of the song and dance.

Fall 2008 Navajo Singing Class Group
(left to right, back row: Laverna Wilson, Sharon Tom, Petra Reyes, Josiah Neswood, Kahara Hodges and, Judy Tapaha; left to right, front row: Monica Sekaquaptewa, Olivia Shorty, Zoey Hodges, Uriah Begay, and Jolyana Bitsuie. Not pictured: Sherry Neswood, Hoffman Shorty and Felicita Shorty.)

Freddie Johnson, Navajo Language Instructor/Storyteller/Cultural Consultant with the Phoenix Indian Center shared a coyote story and information about the Navajo Nation.

We thank both Freddie and Jolyana for doing such a great job with our community!

Some of the songs we have learned include: Kiizh, Dahdiniilghaazh (Fry Bread Song), Dahnaat’ai Biyiin (Navajo Flag Song), Dzilth Dadi Yinii (Four Sacred Mountains), Diné Bi Dahnaat’ai Sin (Navajo Nation Flag Song), Iina Baa Hozho.

Dahnaat’ai Biyiin (Navajo Navajo Flag Song)
This is a song commemorating the Navajo Nation Flag. It explains why the flag and the symbols on them are important to the Diné people. This is one of the many songs the Fall class learned. (Thanks to Judy Tapaha for providing the audio files.)

Navajo Flag Song - Navajo Lang Class

Dzilth Dadi Yinii (Four Sacred Mountains)
In this song Jolyana explains the mountains sacred to the Navajo people and the Diné people's unique relationship to the Four Sacred Mountains.

Dzil Dadi Yinii - Navajo Lang Class

Winter 2009 Classes and Events

2009-01-09T17:11:00.000-08:00

Diné Language Program Spring Classes
Classes will be starting Monday, January 21, 2009 at the Phoenix Indian Center and the Mesa Public Schools Student Services office (see class listings below). Online registration should be available by December 29, 2009. The classes are continuing from Fall semester 2008, but new students are welcome to join.

PHOENIX INDIAN CENTER

GED Classroom

4520 N. Central Ave., Suite 250

Phoenix, AZ 85012

Diné Culture Classes: Start January 26^th, 2009

Instructor; Freddie Johnson

Monday nights; 6:00pm - 7:30pm

Learn about self identity using the Diné Clan Philosophy through Diné Oral Traditions.

**Intermediate Navajo: Starts January 24^th, 2009

Instructor; Jolyana Bitsuie

Every Saturday: 9:00am – 11:00am

This class requires a $25 materials fee. This is a continuing class to Beginning Navajo. It will be an introduction to speech and writing.

**Navajo Singing class: starts January 24^th, 2009

Instructor; Jolyana Bitsuie

Every Saturday: 11:30am – 1:30pm

Learners will explore various Navajo singing styles and songs sung for different purposes in Diné culture. Learn social songs, patriotic songs, corn grinding songs, and children songs.

MESA PUBLIC SCHOOL

Student Services Building

Grand Canyon Room South

1025 N. Country Club Drive

Mesa, AZ 85021

Intergenerational Diné Language and Culture Classes

Starts: January 21^st, 2009

Instructor: Freddie Johnson

Wednesday nights: 6:00 to 7:00pm

Learn about Diné language from a traditional perspective using the Diné way of teachings. Open to all ages, families welcomed.

**Classes will require a $25 materials fee.

Classes are not for credit.

Non Navajos wishing to take these classes may do so for a fee of $150. Classes are free to Navajo families in the greater Maricopa County. Non-Navajo inlaws to Diné families are welcomed.

Classes will run into the second week of May.

ONLINE REGISTRATION AVAILABLE – www.phxindcenter.org click on Events/classes tab

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT; FREDDIE JOHNSON AT (602)263-1017 EXT.2305 Fax (602)274-7486

Email fjohnson@phxindcenter.org website: www.phxindcenter.org

SHOE GAME/WINTER STORYTELLING 2009

HEARD Museum – Steele Auditorium
2301 N. Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ

Shoe Game: Friday, January 16, 2009 6-9pm

Storytelling: Saturday, January 17, 2009 9am-1pm
“Winter Stories of Post Emergence”
Johnson Dennison
This will include the stories of the birth of White Shell Woman, the Birth of the Twins, and the Slaying of the Monsters and some Coyote stories

“Separation of Sexes-Ałnaashi’ Adeezdéél”
Bennie Silversmith
What was the cause of this movement and what were the consequences of this event in our oral history. What are we suppose to learn from this story?

“Lakota Legend of the White Buffalo Calf Woman”
Kimberly Yellowrobe Irwin - Sicangu Lakota Oyate - Rosebud Sioux Tribe

FUN FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY!
Refreshments will be Available! Food concession sale on site: Mutton Stew, Frybread, Coffee and hot chocolate will be fore sale at both events!

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT FREDDIE JOHNSON @ (602)264-6768 or fjohnson@phxindcenter.org