"National Treasure"

A large group of area Native Americans & Armed Forces Veterans, will organize in Williamsport at the corner of West Fourth/Market Street, where a Color Guard will lead them in parade (7:10 pm start) down West Fourth Street to the site of the Mural "Inspiration Lycoming", on Friday August 4th, 2006, kicking off the city's First Friday celebrations, but also marking the start of the 3rd Annual Bull Run All Nations Festival..The Festival will be held through the weekend at Loyalsock's Riverfront Park by Canfield Island..



Upon arrival, Native American representatives will bless (Smudge Ceremony) the Mural in a traditional ritual that is a purifying & cleansing ceremony.. This, is a short video of last year’s ceremony..




For much of his life, Michael Pilato has been deeply affected by Native Americans, and many times has referred to them as a, "National Treasure", who need to be honored and preserved..Since his youth, he was affected by the power, strenght, and beauty of the culture, and as tribute, he will be unveiling additional panels at this Friday's celebration, that depict local Native American portraiture & influence in Lycoming County..

The Festival , open 10 am to 6 pm, will continue through the weekend with Native American Dancing featuring many styles including, Aztec Fire Dancers..There will also be 5 Ceremonial Drums, craft and food vendors (wait till you see the sumptuous food offerings), storytelling, music, arts, a Petting Zoo, and many other fun events & surprises..Admission is free, but donations are encouraged and will be accepted at the entrance, with all the proceeds going to charity (including a Christmas Run to area hospitals), so get out there and support this folks!..Rarely do we see a convergence of events that celebrates culture, as a fun event, where the entire proceeds go to a charitable cause..Remember, closing time is 6pm, this is an ideal 'day event' for all ages..Check out the Bull Run website here


Carlos



Tip of the Hat to: Dancing Otter Site

Photography by: Kevin Stroble





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