San Diego American Indian Health Center Grand Opening
By Roy Cook

Dusk softens the edges of the downtown, 2630 First
Ave gathering. Community members are arriving and
leaving. Constant movement is evident as the shadows lengthen into the evening.
Doctors, Dentist, Lawyer, Indians and Police. Everyone in the American Indian Task Force community was at the San Diego Indian Health Center Grand Opening, May 22, 2002. Dusk softens the edges of the downtown, 2630 First Ave gathering. Community members are arriving and leaving. Constant movement is evident as the shadows lengthen into the evening. Catered tables were generously and temptingly distributed with healthy tasty delights. Board members and employees were in attendance for community access. Dr. Maryam Far and her staff made sure all were welcomed and directed to enjoy themselves to their pleasure. Several took comfort in the many chairs
and tables under cover as the evening moisture brought out the welcome heaters. Food was set aside and conversations were suspended when the winners of the silent auction redeemed the yellow ticket for generous gifts donated by many organizations and individuals in the community.
Before the excitement of the drawing the community was entertained by contemporary and traditional tribal music. Lupe Dancing Bear from the Fresno area filled the location with wondrous original compositions. His flute renditions were impeccable. The unique gourd accompaniment and original songs reflected his
California Indian heritage.
Alternating sets were presented by the Cedar Moon Singers. Their voices were reflections of the night sky. That pale orb was not a new moon nor was it a full moon. It was rather more three quarters and kind of soft one side. Cedar Moon sang songs and lifted their voices into the evening night.
It seemed too soon to be over but clean up began. Winners clutching flowers and last minute snacks drifted from staff members to friends shaking hands and hugs all around.
A fine and memorable evening for the American Indian Health Center Grand opening. Give them a call:
619-234-2158, let them know what you think, Maybe they can help.