Three young dancers prepare to represent powwow dancing in their regalia.
Sara Dowling | NNG
The Fallon Paiute-Shoshone Tribe celebrated its 26th annual Earth Day on Saturday at Oats Park.
This year’s national theme “Our Power, Our Planet” highlights renewable energy-solar, geothermal, hydroelectric, tidal and wind. The day featured environmental information, community agency representatives, craft vendors, food, entertainment and raffle prizes. Ileana Henry, FPST environmental protection specialist and event organizer, said it encourages awareness of sustainability and conservation efforts.
“I hope people will have a good time and feel a sense of community while celebrating Mother Earth,” she said. “Maybe take something home with them that they learned here today.”
Entertainment was provided throughout the day by River Rogue Band, Young Chief drum group, The Jolly Juggler and the Pyramid Lake High School Pudu Nugadu Dancers.
Freshman Farrah Mauwee said she grew up dancing and has been performing with Pudu Nugadu for a year.
“I like letting people know about my traditions and spreading my culture around,” Mauwee said.
Jordan Rivers, also a freshman, has been with the group for three years and used to compete in grass dance when he was younger.
“My favorite part is definitely showing off our Great Basin tribe dances that have been passed down for generations,” he said. “I like sharing them with everybody and the stories behind the dances.”
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency website, the first Earth Day celebration was in April 1970. Tripling renewable energy by 2030 would, among other things, improve overall community health, create jobs and eliminate dependence on fossil fuels, the agency said.
For information visit earthday.org.