The Annual Dinner in the Canyons was held on Saturday, October 13th. Guests were parked at the bottom of the Canyon and given a bus ride to this spectacular venue. The scenery is fabulous from this height looking down over the valley. Surrounding huge lit boulders and palm trees are exquisite. A feeling of reverence and awe comes over you at this ancestral home of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians.
Guests walked thru a pathway of red lights to the dinner area. Michael Hammond Executive Director of the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum greeted the guests and gave recognition to the major event sponsors. Mildred Browne, Chairwoman told of the many activities of the Museum and how educating people thru the Museum is so important. A live auction of Indian Jewelry brought more dollars to this cause. The new Tribal Chairman, Jeff Grubbe spoke to the guests and showed his dedication and humor to the dinner patrons.
A portrait of former Chairman, Richard Milanovich was commissioned by PENTA Building Group was unveiled and presented by President Jeff Ehret to Chairman Jeff Grubbe and Michael Hammond for the Tribe. The family of Mr. Milanovich was present to see this unveiling.
Entertainment was provided by Chuna McIntyre and Nunamta Eskimo Singers and Dancers. Chuna McIntyre told guests what the dances meant and explained how the costuming is made from furs and birds of Alaska. Many of the costumes were handed down from families made years ago. No photographs were taken as these dances are sacred to the tribe but guests were told to come up to the stage to see their costumes and ask questions after the dances. Dinner was prepared and served by New Leaf Catering.
