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RedDoor Gallery Presents Award Winning Photographer Martinotti For First Friday

Camas, WA — RedDoor Gallery in Camas is honored to announce the addition of national award winning photographer John J. Martinotti at Camas First Friday on December 5th. John Martinotti is an internationally recognized fine art photographer and visual storyteller whose work has been selected over twenty times by 1x.com, a prestigious online gallery known for its strict curatorial standards and global community of fine art photographers. Martinotti was also named 2025 Photographer of the Year by Exposure One for his work in black and white.

The public is invited to celebrate the season with a traditional Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in downtown Camas on First Friday, December 5th. Meet Martinotti and enjoy complimentary refreshments at the gallery’s signature artist reception from 5-8 pm.

“We are deeply honored to represent Martinotti’s award winning photographic art,” said Liz Pike, local artist and gallery owner. “His work adds an important new dimension to our fine art exhibits at RedDoor Gallery.”

Martinotti’s work is showcased in a newly dedicated photographic studio on the mezzanine level at RedDoor Gallery.

With a career spanning over 30 years, Martinotti has developed a distinct artistic voice that resonates with collectors, curators, and creative audiences worldwide. Now based in Camas, his body of work at RedDoor Gallery includes superior canvas prints that deliver visual narratives. 

“I approach the world through a lens of curiosity,” said Martinotti. “Observation is central to my process, enabling me to uncover depth and beauty in both the everyday and the extraordinary. My aim is to frame the world in ways that prompt viewers to look closer, reflect deeper, and feel more profoundly.”

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply enjoy being surrounded by beautiful art, RedDoor Gallery’s Friday, December 5th reception from 5-8 pm promises an evening of inspiration and artistic connection!  This event is one of the most anticipated cultural gatherings in Clark County each month. Experience the best of local art in a vibrant, welcoming space with an opportunity to meet the 14 talented artists at RedDoor Gallery to gain an understanding of the inspiration behind the work.

Gallery hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 12-6 pm and Sundays from 10 am-2 pm and by appointment. Visit RedDoorGalleryCamas.com. For more information, call 360-281-8720 or e-mail LizPike7@icloud.com.

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Travel: 7 Most Romantic Italian Cities To Visit for Your Anniversary

Celebrate your anniversary in Italy! Discover seven romantic Italian cities that are packed with charm, culture, and unforgettable experiences.

There’s something magical about a European vacation, and specifically, an Italian getaway. The delicious food, the stunning views, the affordable wine, the cobblestone streets, and the outdoor cafés? It all seems like a fairytale. Even more so when you’re there with your partner.

Whether you’re revisiting some of your old honeymoon spots or finally getting that trip to Europe you’ve always dreamed of, Italy has some of the best locations for basking in love. This curated list highlights seven of the most romantic Italian cities to visit for your anniversary. From the canals of Venice to hidden Tuscan gems, these destinations promise memories that last a lifetime.  

1. Venice: A Serenade of Love in Every Corner  

Venice, often called “The Floating City,” tops the list for romance. Its stunning network of canals, historic architecture, and cozy gondola rides create a magical backdrop for any anniversary celebration.  

Must-Do Activities:

Glide through the Grand Canal on a gondola ride as a gondolier serenades you.  

Share a kiss on the famous Rialto Bridge, an iconic spot for lovers.  

Explore St. Mark’s Square and wander through its lesser-known alleys for quieter, more intimate moments.  

There are so many little corners to find moments of intimacy—a shared cup of coffee at a small café or enjoying a drink on a rooftop. But don’t fully avoid the more populated areas. Eat outside on the square where various restaurants have musicians playing; it’s a memory-making moment. 

2. Florence: The City Where Art Meets Passion  

Florence exudes elegance and culture, with its Renaissance art and jaw-dropping views. Romance blooms as you overlook the city skyline from Piazzale Michelangelo or stroll along the Arno River during sunset.  

Must-Do Activities:

Climb to the top of the Duomo for breathtaking panoramic views.  

Visit the Uffizi Gallery to stand before Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus.”  

Stroll across the Ponte Vecchio and browse its lovely jewelry shops.  

Pro Tip: Book a wine-tasting tour through Tuscany and toast to your love among rolling vineyards. You could even take an overnight trip and stay at a vineyard.

3. Verona: The City of Star-Crossed Lovers  

Step into the pages of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” in Verona, where romance fills the air at every corner. This intimate city celebrates love with a quieter charm than its more tourist-heavy counterparts.  

Must-Do Activities:

Visit Juliet’s House and leave a heartfelt love note on its wall.  

Watch a summer opera at the Verona Arena, a Roman amphitheater turned cultural hotspot.  

Wander Piazza delle Erbe and enjoy a cozy meal in its atmospheric medieval setting.  

Experience Verona during February’s “Verona in Love” festival, which celebrates romance with special events and decorations. The whole city celebrates love: from bars and restaurants to theatres and bookstores with different initiatives. Enjoy themed dinners, book presentations, and more.

4. Positano: A Coastal Haven of Romance  

Perched on the cliffside along the Amalfi Coast, Positano feels like it was tailor-made for couples. Its pastel-colored buildings cascade down to the crystal-clear Mediterranean, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.  

Must-Do Activities:

Lounge on Spiaggia Grande beach with a glass of limoncello in hand.  

Take a private boat ride along the coast to discover hidden coves and sea caves.  

Dine at a cliffside restaurant while watching the sunset paint the horizon.  

Book a photographer and get some professional photos taken with the cliffs as your backdrop.

Pro Tip: Pack comfortable shoes for Positano’s steep steps and cobbled streets. The experience is worth the hike, and your feet will thank you!  

5. Siena: A Hidden Tuscan Gem  

While many flock to Florence, Siena offers a more intimate Tuscan experience. Its preserved medieval beauty and relaxing atmosphere create the perfect setting for an anniversary getaway for those who crave a bit more peace and quiet.  

Must-Do Activities:

Climb the Torre del Mangia for views of Siena’s terracotta rooftops.  

Enjoy a romantic dinner in Piazza del Campo, the city’s historic square.  

Explore Siena’s countryside with a Vespa ride through rolling hills and vineyards.  

Pro Tip: This is another great place to book a stay in a countryside villa or agriturismo just outside Siena to experience the true Tuscan lifestyle.  

6. Rome: Eternal Love in the Eternal City  

Rome is a city where history and love collide. With iconic landmarks, mouthwatering cuisine, and a vibrant culture, there’s no short supply of romantic spots to discover in the Italian capital.  

Must-Do Activities:

Toss a coin together into the Trevi Fountain and make a wish for lasting love.  

Share a moment at the Spanish Steps or take a selfie under the Colosseum’s towering arches.  

Savor a private candlelit dinner in Trastevere, Rome’s most charming neighborhood.  

Pro Tip: There are tons of benefits to small private tours in Italy, and Rome is an excellent place to take advantage of them. Skip the long lines and experience the historical city like a local.

7. Bologna: Italy’s Culinary Heart for Food-Loving Couples  

If the way to your partner’s heart is through their stomach, Bologna is the city for you. Known as Italy’s food capital, this delightful destination combines bold flavors with romantic charm.  

Must-Do Activities:

Take a couple’s cooking class and learn to make authentic pasta by hand.  

Share a platter of cured meats and cheeses at a local trattoria.  

Stroll under Bologna’s covered porticoes, offering a cozy atmosphere, rain or shine.  

Pro Tip: Pair your food adventures with a wine-tasting experience at a nearby vineyard in the Emilia-Romagna region.  

Plan Your Romance-Infused Italian Adventure  

Italy truly has it all when it comes to romance. Each city offers its unique blend of culture, scenery, and experiences to help you celebrate your love in the perfect way. Whether you’re soaking up the Venetian canals, marveling at Florence’s Renaissance splendor, or indulging in Bologna’s culinary delights, your anniversary will become a cherished memory.  

If you can’t decide which city to visit, don’t be afraid to explore a few on your trip. Tacking on one or two extra cities allows for more memory making! However, avoid trying to fit too many cities in within a short period of time—you want romance, not stress.

Now all that’s left to do is start planning your dream Italian getaway. Which city will you explore first?  

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Camas Vintage & Art Faire Coming Aug. 23, Enjoy Local Treasures

The 16th annual Camas Vintage & Art Faire returns to the streets of Downtown Camas on Saturday, August 23rd from 9am to 3pm, bringing a fresh wave of local artistry and vintage charm.

Art lovers and vintage enthusiasts alike will delight in this open-air event featuring a vibrant mix of local artists and vintage vendors. Visitors can explore a variety of professional artwork including paintings, ceramics, fiber arts, upcycled creations, handcrafted jewelry, metalwork, and photography. For those drawn to all things vintage, the faire offers an eclectic collection of home décor, furniture, clothing, accessories, and more—each piece with its own story and style.

Set in the heart of historic Downtown Camas along 4th Avenue and Birch Street, just steps from Camas Antiques at 305 NE 4th Avenue, the event invites guests to discover both new favorites and timeless treasures.

This year’s faire welcomes a number of exciting new artists. Shannon Daly of Shannon Elle Art brings delicate floral paintings in vintage frames, while Gretchen Wright Designs reimagines antique dolls and found objects into whimsical new creations. Fans of colorful, abstract landscapes will appreciate the bold work of Jennie Westfall.

Returning favorites include Exuberant Studio, known for finely crafted jewelry made from vintage silverware, and Moltwear, whose high-end fashion pieces are created from carefully curated vintage textiles. One Little Blackbird will bring their imaginative birdhouses and yard art, and Reflections by Keith returns with striking paintings of classic cars.

New to the vintage vendor lineup is Washougal-based My Mother’s Closets Vintage, offering a curated collection of vintage clothing and housewares. Guests can add a whimsical flair to their experience at Midnight Magic Garden, where they can create their own flower crown adorned with vintage-inspired ribbon.

Returning vendor Bug Bones Records is a must-visit for music lovers on the hunt for rare vinyl. For vintage home décor with a creative twist, guests can browse the charming displays from Belle Flower Farms and Friends and Foundation of the Camas Library, who offer fresh flower arrangements in antique vessels and vintage book sets.

To view the full list of participating artists and vendors, visit: https://downtowncamas.com/event/camas-vintage-art-faire

Live music will add a nostalgic flair throughout the day. Jazz guitarist Bret Malmquist will perform from 10 am–12 pm, followed by the Carol Rossio Jazz Trio from 12:30 pm–3 pm, blending French jazz and pop to create an upbeat, vintage-inspired vibe. Camas Antiques, a longtime sponsor of the event, will once again provide the signature floral arrangements that add elegance and color to the faire.

In addition to Downtown Camas’s many dining options, guests can enjoy bites from Getta Gyro, Pacific Northwest Kettle Corn, treats from Blue Gem Baking Co., and refreshing Dole soft serve from new vendor Swirled Frozen Goodness.

“This is one of the events I’ve been most excited for!” says Brie Marais, Marketing & Volunteer Coordinator for the Downtown Camas Association (DCA), who is completing her first year with the organization. “We have such an inspiring group of artists and makers, and it’s so rewarding to see them share their talents with the community. Plus who doesn’t love a vintage treasure hunt? We invite everyone to come find something old, discover something new, and enjoy a day of creativity and connection.”

The Camas Vintage & Art Faire is hosted by the Downtown Camas Association. The DCA works year-round to strengthen and promote Downtown Camas through partnerships, events, beautification and historic preservation efforts, economic development, advocacy, and tourism initiatives. For more information on the DCA and upcoming events, visit www.downtowncamas.com. For more details about this event, visit the 2025 Camas Vintage & Art Faire Facebook event page.

CAMAS VINTAGE
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RedDoor Gallery Unveils Exquisite New Clay Works by Diane Gale on First Friday

RedDoor Gallery in Camas is pleased to announce potter Diane Gale as its newest represented artist.  Meet Diane, founder of Clayfires and see her new works in clay on exhibit exclusively inside the red door. 

She creates beautiful, functional pottery that reflects both simplicity and balance. She often wood-fires her pieces, allowing ash to melt onto the clay – producing unique patterns and carbon trapping that tell the story of each kiln and firing cycle. Diane’s pottery blends function, form and storytelling. Be the first to see this stunning new exhibit on August 1st at RedDoor Gallery’s popular First Friday reception from 5-8 pm. 

Diane’s work has been exhibited internationally, and her work is featured in galleries and exhibitions across the U.S. Her educational background is both traditional – from colleges imparting foundational techniques, as well as from specialty workshops with potters such as Paul Soldner, Patty Warashina, Tom Coleman and Ruthanne Tudball. Diane’s greatest influence emerged during her juried residency in Tokoname, Japan, where she lived while studying Japanese culture, throwing techniques and wood firing. Her preference is for simple shapes with an organic surface; asymmetrical, irregular and altered pieces reflect the reality of our imperfections.

Diane’s passion for clay spans over 30 years and continues to evolve – embracing its versatility and her life experiences. Her pieces are her stories and she is honored to share them with art collectors with the hope they find a part of their story in them too.

The August 1st artist reception will also feature new original art with an opportunity to meet many of the 13 talented local artists of RedDoor Gallery. Visitors can engage in conversations with the creators behind the work, gaining insight into their inspirations, techniques, and artistic journeys. Complimentary refreshments and an inviting ambiance make this an anticipated cultural gathering in Camas.

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply enjoy being surrounded by beautiful art, RedDoor Gallery’s Friday, August 1st reception promises an evening of inspiration, connection, and artistic celebration. Don’t miss this special opportunity to experience the best of  local art in a cool, welcoming space.

Gallery hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 12-6 pm and Sundays from 10 am-2 pm.  Visit RedDoorGalleryCamas.com. For more information, call 360-281-8720 or e-mail LizPike7@icloud.com

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Movies in the Park to Run at Dorothy Fox Elementary for 2025

Camas, WA — The popular Movies in the Park series coordinated byCamas Parks & Recreation will be held at Dorothy Fox Elementary school starting Friday, Aug. 1, with the showing of the 2023 summer blockbuster Barbie (rated PG-13). 

This year’s free movies will take place at Dorothy Fox Elementary, 2623 NW Sierra St., with movies shown every Friday in August.  Movies are family-friendly and begin at dusk with pre-movie activities (crafts and/or games) taking place one hour prior to show time.

This year’s movie lineup includes:

  • Barbie (PG-13) – August 1, at 8:45 pm
  • Wicked (PG) – August 8, at 8:30 pm
  • Lilo & Stitch (Animated) (PG) – August 15, at 8:30 pm
  • A Minecraft Movie (PG) – August 22, at 8:15 pm
  • Moana 2 (PG) – August 29, at 8 pm

Attendees are welcome to bring dinner, snacks, or they can purchase novelty treats (i.e. popcorn, candy, etc.) on site.  Bring chairs or blankets for seating and note that, to allow fair viewing, chairs are placed in one half of the park viewing area and blankets in the other half.  Please note that alcohol and animals are not allowed on school grounds. 

This is a free event with no registration required. Camas’ Movies in the Park series is sponsored by Camas United Methodist Church.

For more information on the annual Movies in the Park series, visit www.cityofcamas.us/parksrec and click on the Special Events button or call 360-834-5307.

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New Book Camas Pioneers Shares Untold Stories of Early Camas Families

A newly published book, Camas Pioneers by Sally Alves, offers a heartfelt and meticulously researched look at the families who helped shape early Camas. Alves, who lived in the historic John Roffler house across from Top Burger Drive-In in the 1990s, first developed her passion for local history while researching her home for the county historic register. That work led to the publication of John Roffler, Camas Craftsman by the historic commission, inspiring her to delve deeper into the stories of Camas’ earliest settlers.

For five years, Alves visited local museums, libraries, county courthouses, and historical societies across Washington and Oregon. She pored over old newspapers, census records, land deeds, graveyards, and oral histories, building detailed files on dozens of pioneer families.

“Researching a book of this kind can take years, and in my case, it did,” said Alves.

She even tracked down and interviewed living descendants, ensuring each family’s story was accurate and approved. Alves completed the manuscript in the late 1990s and then she rewrote and edited it in 2010. But challenges in funding and a computer crash kept it from publication, until now.

Volunteers Madeline Mesplay and Rene Carroll of the Camas-Washougal Historical Society (CWHS), lightly edited the manuscript and located replacement images. They also worked with April Pereira of Lymantria Press to prepare the manuscript for print. 

“At long lastCamas Pioneers has finally come to life,” said Carroll. “Sally’s research and storytelling are excellent. It’s very well written and fascinating to read.”

Now living in Arizona and turning 90 this September, Alves shared that she complete much of the book while working full time and undergoing treatment for breast cancer. 

“It only made me more determined to finish it,” she said. “This book was written with love of Camas.”

In appreciation, Alves donated the copyright to the CWHS, which now receives all proceeds from sales. 

Camas Pioneers

“As someone Camas-grown, it was amazing to learn about the people behind familiar names like Leadbetter, Stoller, Farrell, and Tidland,” said Julianne Lawrence, director of the Two Rivers Heritage Museum. “Sally’s writing style brings local history to life.”

Camas Pioneers is available for $19.95 plus tax at the Two Rivers Heritage Museum (1Durgan Street, Washougal. Open Saturdays noon–4 pm through October), on Amazon, and during Downtown Camas First Friday events at the museum table.

“Sally has done an incredible job of preserving the stories of these families who made such a difference in the formation of Camas,” Lawrence added. “Whether your family has lived in Camas for many years or even generations, or you’re new to the area and interested in the rich history of the Pacific Northwest, you will enjoy this book.”

Families Featured in Camas Pioneers

Henry Monroe Knapp, Joel Coffey, Lewis Van Vleet, Dr. Louisa Wright, Horace Belding, D. Montgomery Payne, Henry Pittock & Fred Leadbetter, The Tidland Family, J. J. Harrington, Lorenz & Karnath Families, Archibald Duncan McKever, Charles Farrell & James Farrell, J. T. Self & Nora E. Self, Robert Stoller & Fred Stoller, Wilmer Swank, O. F. Johnson, Aeneas MacMaster, Allan Duffin, Richard Cowan & John Cowan, Hugh MacMaster, Albert M. Blake, Robert N. “Bob” Gaines, Robert W. Carmack, Wilber E. Farr/Farr Brothers, Jessie D. Belknap, Archie E. Bird, M.D. and William Baz.

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JOURNEY THEATER PRESENTS ‘Singin’ in the Rain’ Coming July 25

Vancouver, WA — When Monumental Studios turns the silent Duelling Cavalier into The Dancing Cavalier, a musical picture, in order to stay relevant, they are faced with a problem: their star, Lina Lamont, can’t sing, and can’t even really talk. Lina’s voice sounds something like nails on a chalkboard. Enter Kathy Selden, an aspiring actress whose dulcet tones are able to cover Lina Lamont’s — calling into question what it means to act, how credit is distributed, and what it means to get a fair shake in the movie business. 

Singin’ in the Rain includes some of the best-loved comedy routines, dance numbers and love songs ever written, including “Good Mornin’”, “Make ‘em Laugh” and – of course – the show stopping dance number, “Singin’ in the Rain.”

Journey Theater is thrilled to provide family-friendly live theater to the greater community! Tickets are on sale now at journeytheater.org or by calling 360.750.8550. Adult tickets are $26. Youth and senior tickets are $22. Tickets are $2 more at the door. Best for ages 10 and up.

Performances at Heritage High School

  • Friday, July 25th at 7pm
  • Saturday, July 26th at 1pm and 6pm
  • Friday, August 1st at 2pm and 7pm
  • Saturday, August 2nd at 1pm

About Journey Theater: Journey is a Jesus-centered theater arts program that exists to grow youth and their families in character and purpose to be difference-makers in their world. Serving Clark County since 2002, Journey is a 501(c)3 nonprofit educational organization, with offices located at 1400 NE 136th Ave, Suite 201, Vancouver WA, 98684.

Contact them at 360.750.8550 or journeytheater.org

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Explore the History Behind Camas Homes at Upcoming CWHS Program

CAMAS, WA — The Camas-Washougal Historical Society invites the community to an engaging and informative program, “Camas Historic Homes and First Owners,” featuring the extensive research of Madeline Mesplay, a dedicated volunteer at the Two Rivers Heritage Museum.

This free event will be held on Saturday, May 3, from 2 to 4 pm at the Camas Church of the Nazarene Community Center (2204 NE Birch Street, Camas).

Over the past two and a half years, Mesplay has uncovered rich historical details about nearly 400 Camas homes built between 1900 and 1939—including their first owners and, in many cases, their original builders. Her work has included walking neighborhood surveys, capturing original photographs, using Clark County GIS data, and conducting extensive research at the Washington State Archives in Olympia.

“My presentation will mostly follow a chronological timeline,” said Mesplay. “It’s fascinating to see the town’s development over the decades—some years saw a surge in construction, while others were quieter, even before the Great Depression. During the Depression, homes tended to be smaller and more modest.”

One area of focus for Mesplay is identifying homes built by prolific local builder John Roffler, who is credited with many of Camas’ most iconic structures. His first known project was the stately Leadbetter House on Lacamas Lake.

In addition to architectural and historical insights, the presentation will include personal stories of the early residents—some who lived quietly and others who made lasting contributions to the Camas community. Mesplay also discovered intriguing connections between the local housing market and the influence of the paper mill during that era.

Mesplay’s research background is extensive. She previously documented Washougal properties in a collection that spans five 3-inch binders. Each record includes a photo, address, plat description, and information about the first property owner, genealogical notes, and—when available—the builder.

“I first learned land research in Oklahoma, working with tribal allotment records,” she said. “Later, I volunteered at the Clark County Historical Museum, where I was trained in urban land research by Brad Richardson.”

To schedule an appointment to view this research or explore the TRHM’s extensive archives on local families and properties, call 360-835-8742 or use the contact form at www.2rhm.com.

The Two Rivers Heritage Museum is open to the public Saturdays from noon to 4 p.m. through October. Group tours for eight or more can be arranged by calling the museum. Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, $2 for students, and free for children under 5 and CWHS members.

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Preliminary Work Begins on Vancouver Washington LDS Temple Site

Camas, WA — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has received approval to begin early construction work on the site of the future Vancouver Washington Temple. With the necessary permits in place, crews will start clearing the land, installing essential utilities, and realigning Bybee Road to accommodate the temple’s construction. These initial steps will prepare the site for further development and ensure proper infrastructure is in place.

“The commencement of this work marks an exciting milestone in the process of building a house of the Lord in the Vancouver area,” said Elder Gordon L. Treadway, Area Authority for the Church. “This sacred place will be a tremendous blessing for the many Latter-day Saints in the area and throughout Southwest Washington. We are grateful for the ongoing support and collaboration from the city of Camas.”

The building permit and design work for the Temple is ongoing, and while an official groundbreaking date has not yet been announced, an announcement regarding the groundbreaking will be forthcoming.

Temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are considered sacred places of worship, where members participate in religious ordinances that strengthen their faith and family bonds. The Vancouver Washington Temple will serve Latter-day Saints in the region, providing a place of peace, worship, and spiritual growth.

Further updates, including the groundbreaking date and additional construction milestones, will be announced as the project progresses.

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Copperworks Artist David Gerton Releases Indigenous Peoples Collection

Camas, WA — Copper Works Artist David Gerton has just released the first two pieces of his Indigenous Peoples Collection, and has this message:

Hello Everyone, 

I have always been fascinated with Native American traditions, cultures and legends. 

Copper Works Art is happy to present EAGLE PLUME and TASHENANAMI the first two pieces in the Indigenous Peoples of America Collection. These are Mixed Media Copper under crystal resin mounted in floating antique gold shadowboxes. Many more tribes will be forthcoming. 

FIND THE HEARTS! 

Native American culture sees color in Four Directions. From these Four Directions, West, North, East, and South, come the four winds. The special meanings of each are accompanied by specific colors, and the shape of the cross symbolizes all directions. Specific details regarding colors associated with directions varies by Tribe. 

To the West is Black where the sun sets, and the day ends. For this reason, west signifies the end of life … “toward the setting sun of his life”.  The great Thunderbird lives in the west and sends thunder and rain from its direction. For this reason, the west is also the source of water: rain, lakes, streams and rivers. Nothing can live without water, so the west is vital.

North brings the cold, harsh winds of the winter season. These winds are cleansing. They cause the leaves to fall and the earth to rest under a blanket of snow. If someone has the ability to face these winds like the buffalo with its head into the storm, they have learned patience and endurance. Generally, this direction stands for hardships and discomfort. Therefore, North represents the trials people must endure and the cleansing they must undergo.

The East yellow (gold). It is the direction from which the sun comes. Light dawns in the morning and spreads over the earth. This is the beginning of a new day. It is also the beginning of understanding because light helps us see things the way they really are. On a deeper level, East stands for the wisdom helping people live good lives. Traditional people rise in the morning to pray facing the dawn, asking God for wisdom and understanding.

South  is White (Silver). Because the southern sky is when the sun is at its highest, this direction stands for warmth and growing. The sun’s rays are powerful in drawing life from the earth. It is said the life of all things comes from the south. Also, warm and pleasant winds come from the South. When people pass into the spirit world, they travel the Milky Way’s path back to the south, returning from where they came.

These colors are particularly embraced by the Dakota and Lakota Sioux tribes.

“Tshenamani” also known as “Moving Robe Woman” was a Sioux woman warrior who fought against General George Custer in the Battle of Big Horn to avenge her brother, One Hawk, who had been killed by Custer and his soldiers when they charged on horseback into the large Lakota village near the Greasy Grass River.   She was 23 at the time. She died at age 81 in 1935.

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