[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 18 (Thursday, February 12, 2004)]
[Senate]
[Page S1279]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

                                 ______
                                 

               IN RECOGNITION OF BLACK EAGLE'S GRAMMY WIN

 Mr. DOMENICI. Mr. President, I wish to recognize a group of 
musicians from my home State of New Mexico. The group, Black Eagle, won 
a Grammy this past Sunday night.
  The Black Eagle group is from the Pueblo of Jemez, which is one of 
the 19 Indian pueblos in our State. Those of us who reside in the 
Southwest are familiar with the pueblos and their people, but many are 
not. The pueblos share many common traditions, but they are distinct 
entities and maintain unique identities. The Jemez Pueblo, located in 
north central New Mexico, is home to the beautiful red mesas, rich 
culture, and some of the most wonderfully talented people around. 
Uniquely, the Pueblo of Jemez is the only remaining village of the Towa 
speaking pueblos. The Pueblo has long been known for its artistic 
talent and craft, but now its distinguished musicians can now add ``the 
Grammy winning'' declaration to their accolades.
  The Black Eagle group formed in the late 1980s. The group's founder, 
Malcom Yepa, started the group when he was in his teens. With some 
urging, he, several friends, and several family members began composing 
songs in their native Towa language. Currently, the Black Eagle's are 
comprised of about 20 members from all across the age spectrum.
  Prior to their Grammy for best Native American Music Album, their 
sixth album ``Flying Free,'' won the Best Pow Wow Album of the Year 
award at the 2003 Native American Music Awards held in Albuquerque this 
past November. Both awards are a remarkable tribute to their hard work, 
commitment, and determination.
  In addition to being musicians, the group has often reiterated their 
dedication to their village and their ancient culture. Furthermore, 
their resolve to positively influence young people is most admirable. 
For that, and for all their accomplishments, I am proud, and I salute 
each and every one of them here in this Record. May their recent 
success be only a prelude to future accomplishments, and may they 
continue to represent their people and the state of New Mexico with 
distinction.

                          ____________________