Amber Siratt
Kern Valley Sun

A beautiful autumn day filled with friends, family, drumming, and dancing drew more than 200 people to the Nuui Cunni Native American Cultural Center’s annual fundraiser last Saturday.

There was something for everyone. Literally. Fry bread, mountain oysters, barbecue beef dinner, and a farmer’s market for the hungry. Face painting for the youngsters. Native plants for the green-thumbed attendees. Music, tradition, and entertainment for all.

(Use arrows above to view more photos)

Saturday’s event featured special guest performers “Crooked Hat” dancers and drummers, who made the trip to the valley to perform for the enthusiastic crowd. The group, nine drummers and three dancers, entertained their audience with traditional ceremonial Native American music and dance.

The center operates under a special use permit by the US Forest Service with the purpose of preserving and promoting local Native American history. Under that mandate, Nuui Cunni is responsible for on-site improvement and maintenance. Their annual fundraiser generates money to cover those costs. The cultural center also includes a museum, library, gift shop, and visitors center.

The highlight of the day was a presentation by Dirk Charlie, Tribal Relations Officer for the US Forest Service. He presented 11 locally hand made Native American baskets that will be housed and on display at the center. A photo of the displayed baskets will be featured in an upcoming issue of the Sun.