Bellies and the dancefloor at the Two Waters Complex were full as the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community hosted its annual Community Thanksgiving on a cool, mostly sunny Saturday, Nov. 22. 

SRPMIC Community Relations Office Events Coordinator Kym Tyler served as event emcee.

The celebration featured live music performed by D Faktion Nyne, a videogame truck, bounce houses, mini-games, prizes, as well as a COVID-19 and flu vaccination station.

“Thank you all for joining us today, and Happy Thanksgiving,” began Tyler during her introductions. 

After her introduction, the Pledge of Allegiance was performed by the Salt River Girls Scout Troops #2516. 

“Thank you all for being here,” began Jr. Miss Salt River Tiaré Begay-Smith. She was joined on stage by Jr. Miss Salt River 1^st Attendant Aiyanna Toya as the duo provided a blessing and opening prayer. 

Later, Miss Indian Arizona Sialik King made an appearance during the Community meal and joined her sash sisters in greeting all in attendance. King was chaperoned by her mom, Cynthia Claw-King. 

Afterwards, Young River People Council President Jizelle Juan greeted and welcomed membership and their loved ones to the celebration. “This event wouldn’t be possible without those who are here helping serve and putting up all the chairs and tables for us. Make sure you’re eating and drinking water so you can go out and dance later,” she said. 

Members of SRPMIC’s Tribal Council, department managers, staff and others volunteered to help serve the meal. A delicious menu was curated by Round House Café team for families to enjoy, which featured all the fixings like ham, beans, turkey, corn, stuffing, pumpkin pie and more.

As all enjoyed their meals, puppets River, Rainn, and Blu, also known as the Flu Fighters, provided a presentation on the platform stage. The Flu Fighters are a puppet group performed by River People Health Center staff to promote a positive and healthy lifestyle that includes staying up to date on vaccinations. 

“Please stay safe this holiday season. Get your testing kits, come on over to public health. If you have questions about exposure, give us a call, we’re here for you,” explained Haley Bodmer, River People Health Center disease investigator and Flu Fighter puppeteer.

The Flu Fighters will return with a holiday float entry in the upcoming SRPMIC Light Parade on Dec. 6. 

After, D Faktion Nyne played a few songs which packed the dancefloor, and emcee Tyler returned to announce the start of the official turkey gobble contest. Four children and seven adults entered with winners in both categories receiving prizes, including a tablet. 

The celebration neared its end with a performance by Paz the Sports Guy, an entertainer who specializes in performing circus tricks with sports equipment. Paz has performed at countless state fairs in the United States, as well as Canada, and is a former member of Cirque du Soleil. “I’m actually from Scottsdale, so it’s great to be back,” said Paz. 

Following his performance, the Young River People Council hosted family bingo to help bring the day to a close.