Ojai Event Focuses on Indians

Acelebration of American Indian heritage Monday at Ojai’s Libbey Park will focus on preserving cultural awareness for future generations.

The first “Good Red Day”--sponsored by the Rainy MountaiN. Indigenous People’s Education Project--will feature a special program of traditional storytelling, dances, songs and crafts from noon to 11 p.m.

The first part of the event will focus on traditional folklore and lifestyles. An Indian village gathering, presented by Chumash Elder Vincent Tumamait, will provide a forum for discussing Chumash legends and history as well as presenting a children’s program.

Chumash teachers Juanita Centino and Jose Castillo will demonstrate making crafts. Other activities include traditional children’s games, and dance and drumming troupes.

Evening activities start at 7 and feature live music. Musician-poet John Trudell will be accompanied by the Grafitti Man Band. The 7th Fire Band will open the concert. The evening portion will begin with a prayer by Tumamait and Queen Rippling Waters of the Mohegan Tribe and Nation.

Traditional foods will be available.

Proceeds will benefit the Matilija Environmental Science Area’s history program offered to Ventura County schoolchildren.

Libby Park is at Signal Street and Ojai Avenue. Tickets are $10, $3 children for all activities, $3 afternoon. For information, call 646-2318.