Northwest Native Chamber

Our Celebration of First Foods Dinner last Friday was an evening woven with joy, connection and deep cultural significance. Guest chefs Nephi Craig BHT, ACRPS and Freddie J. Bitsoie joined Executive Chef Jack Strong, friends and collaborators for years, to craft a menu that celebrated Indigenous food-ways through an unforgettable five-course experience. The evening was marked by lively laughter, warm exchanges and a sense of discovery as guests shared thoughtful questions and received poignant responses, learning firsthand from the chefs about the heritage and importance of each dish. Acosia Red Elk, 10-time world champion jingle dancer, kicked off the evening with a cultural performance, whose graceful movements and vibrant regalia captivated the room. Acosia’s performance was a stunning tribute to Indigenous resilience and artistry, and her presence brought an indescribable energy to the celebration. Graciously guiding the evening as special guest MC was Elaine Chukan Brown, whose thoughtful introductions set the tone. Her eloquence and respect for the chefs and the winemakers added depth to the experience, inviting everyone to reflect on the rich stories, laughter and connections shared around the full room. “Hosting the second annual First Foods Celebration was deeply meaningful, a special night that brought together old friends and introduced new ones,” reflected Chef Jack. “Reuniting with the Chefs Nephi and Freddie felt like no time had passed; it was like the old days, working side by side, sharing our Native foods. “Last year, we planted a small seed with a rather intimate dinner, and seeing it grow this year with so many thoughtful additions and special guests has been inspiring. I look forward to further growth in next year’s celebration, and the collaborations it brings together in honoring our traditions.” It was truly a night of celebration, and an event that we hope will remain cherished by all in attendance! Benefitting Northwest Native Chamber. Photos by Kari Rowe Photography. #NativeAmericanHeritageMonth #FirstFoods #NWNC #SupportNativeCommunities

? Inspiring the next generation of culinary leaders! ? We recently had the pleasure of hosting 14 students from the Siletz Valley School Culinary Program. The students embarked on a tour and had the opportunity to learn about careers in the culinary world. They met with our talented Executive Chef Jack Strong, member of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, and our Master Gardener Anna Ashby, along with managers and executives, who shared their career journeys and stories of growth in the industry. It’s an honor to support these aspiring chefs as they explore their passion for food. The Siletz Valley School Culinary Program, led by Culinary Director Patrick Clarke, offers a series of courses starting from middle school, focusing on essential culinary skills, sustainable practices and real-world business experience. Their fully operational food truck teaches students every aspect of running a culinary business—a unique hands-on approach that truly sets them up for success. We’re excited to welcome these students to our Native American Heritage Month Indigenous Marketplace + Reception on Saturday, Nov. 2, where they’ll serve small bites to more than 100 guests. And during the month of November, a portion of proceeds from sales on a featured Native dish in JORY Restaurant will go to support Siletz Valley School Culinary Program. Chef Jack will work with Native guest chef Freddie Bitsoie from New Mexico to create a dish where the Northwest meets the flavors of the Southwest. Interested in attending the marketplace on Saturday? Tickets are still available! Visit https://lnkd.in/gxk9_Png for more details! #FirstFoods #NativeAmericanHeritageMonth #SupportNativeCommunities #FoodTravel #AllisonInnSpa

?? Opportunity for Tribal Leaders ?? The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is accepting nominations for a new Federal advisory committee to support the implementation of the Public Lands Rule. This committee will play a critical role in shaping policies on resource management and land conservation, ensuring that Indigenous Knowledge and perspectives are central in these decisions. BLM is seeking two Tribal government representatives to serve two-year terms. This is a unique chance to bring Tribal leadership to the forefront of federal land management. ?? Nomination Deadline: November 18, 2024 ?? Submit nominations to [email protected] Help ensure that Tribal voices are heard in the management of public lands! #TribalLeadership #IndigenousKnowledge #PublicLands #Conservation #BLM #FederalAdvisoryCommittee #LandManagement https://lnkd.in/ghkBzd-P

ELEVATE: Portland | Meet the Speakers elevate-portland.com James Alan Parker Executive Director Northwest Native Chamber Mr. Parker is an enrolled citizen of the Chippewa Cree Tribal Nation. He has lived in Portland area for over ten years with his wife and three children. Previously, he served in Washington D.C. in an executive management role for one of the oldest native serving non-profits in the U.S. Currently, he is the executive director of the Oregon Native American Chamber, a non-profit dedicated to providing economic and educational opportunities for Native Americans in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho through the pillars of service in Education & Growth, Relationship Building, and Economic Justice & Transformation. A role driven by his passion for community development through investment in an ecosystem that supports private enterprise serving local economies for Native Americans. Additionally, over the past ten years, he served as, lead management consultant, and later as the deputy director and acting director for the Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians (ATNI), the regional policy and advocacy organization serving nearly 50 tribes across the northwest. Upon moving to Oregon, Mr. Parker founded and serves as president of J. Alan Enterprises, LLC, an innovative business based on over fifteen years of experience within the information technology and non-profit management sector. His clients included tribes, government agencies, tribal organizations, and small business across the northwest. REGISTER TODAY: https://lnkd.in/gMUFh2FT SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR EVENT SPONSOR: ECOnorthwest