| Where in the Rocks is Chief Shingas? |
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Game begins August 28
Chief Shingas
Or Popping a Qwiff with George Washington
Back in the day various Native American tribes including Adena (Mound Builders), Hopewell and Shawnee, were
moving in and out of McKees Rocks. The Delaware Tribe led by Chief Shingas, aka 'Shingas the Terrible', was
the dominating factor in McKees Rocks in 1753. During this era George Washington was checking out the lay of
the land to find the best location to build a fort – a sturdy fort – that would protect the expected wave of settlers
from both Indians and the French flotilla.
George Washington was granted the privilege to meet up with Chief Shingas to negotiate the deal. Chief Shingas
recommended the Mound, built by the Adena in 250 B.C. would be a perfect location. The Mound is 161 feet tall
and 85 feet in diameter. Washington rejected this site. He reasoned that the Mound was 'greatly inferior' since its
steep slopes would make the development difficult, pricey and much more complicated to defend. Later on
Washington selected the “Forks” area, as a better location for Fort Pitt.
Anyway, as George Washington and Chief Shingas were just hanging out along the banks of Chartiers Creek in
the Rocks they encountered what they thought was a lightning bolt – or maybe a floating ball - never imagining
that this quantum wave collapse was actually “popping a qwiff” . . . the first step to taking a quantum leap.
Editor’s Note: In McKees Rocks-eeze “popping a qwiff” is just like entering the time machine invented by the be-
spectacled pooch Mr. Peabody and his pet boy Sherman.
The sky blackened as the lightning ball sped off. Buckets of rain plunged to the earth. The thin veil separating
the year 1753 from the year 2009 thinned itself out, sucking Chief Shingas and his guide Winter Moon into a
realm where no man - or wolf - has ever gone before. The Chief was astonished . . . George Washington slowly
faded away into a ghostly form until he thoroughly disappeared. The man and wolf gazed at each other.
Something about each other’s essence was different. Their aura, however, never changed.
The storm ended just as abruptly as it began. The northwest wind parted the clouds to reveal the moon. The Full
Moon brought a sense of calm and familiarity to the Chief. Many winters ago the Chief was born under the full
moon. Only a few winters ago his she-wolf companion came to life beneath a full moon. The Chief named his wolf
companion Winter Moon to honor the name of his own Spirit Guide.
What’s going on? The baffled Chief Shingas thrived on a good mystery. His sense of curiosity and determination
to solve this mystery usurped any misgivings that tried to develop within him. Both Winter Moons, Spirit Guide
and she-wolf, were with him, guiding him and encouraging him. Together they faced life’s uncertainties, defeated
savage marauders and braved the legions of hell. Together they straddled this ambiguous line of demarcation
separating the “then” from the “now”. Together they would make their way through the labyrinth of time.
Chief Shingas and Winter Moon want to meet you. Within the next few weeks they will travel to various merchants
and municipal areas of McKees Rocks, and will leave a portrait as proof. Mckeesrocks.com will chronicle their
journey as seen through the Chief’s eyes. Can you find them? Prizes will be awarded to the first person to email
their location to mckeesrocksnews@yahoo.com. All correct entries will be eligible for a grand prize raffle at the
end of the game. The grand prize is $100 and was generously donated by Representative Nick Kotik. The game
starts next Friday..stay tuned for clues…
Chief Shingas Chapter 1
Chief Shingas was hanging out at Phil’s Archery on Chartiers Avenue. Congratulations to Clara Priddy on being
the first person to email the correct answer. Clara wins $25 compliments of Phil’s Archery and will be included for
the Grand Prize Drawing of $100. Phil Durr has been in business in the Rocks since 1964. He specializes in
custom made arrows. For more information on Phil’s Archery
See the clues below and check next Friday for a new location. The Chief be wandering about…..
Chief Shingas Delaware Tribe
Chapter 1
Chief Shingas looked towards the south to see an astonishing array of stars that he’d never seen before. They
hung below the horizon. Some were different colors, mostly the color of the sun, unlike the silvery stars that
framed the moon. (City Lights) A noisy pair of stars, the color of water and the color of fire, traversed slowly
northward. (Airplane) Was this White Man’s Magic?
The two, man and wolf, hiked along Chartiers Creek – the same creek where as a young man, he and his warrior
friends would run barefoot in the icy cold to toughen themselves up. The creek looked strange. The water was
dark and murky and had a funny odor that the Chief has never smelled before. (Pollution) The fish were so
strange. They were enormous and they wore the colors of flint arrowheads. (Common Carp introduced by
Europeans in 1831) Some were the color of bronze. What were these fish? (Crappy Garbage tossed into the
river in the year 2009)
Winter Moon slowed her gait into a halt. Chief Shingas noticed her ears were pointed and alert, her tail wagged
slowly. He aimed his gaze towards hers to discover another familiar sight. Several pairs of eyes circled with black
against white, furry faces looked up to meet his eyes. The fur on their back was dark as the night sky and their
tails were ringed with black and white. The Algonkin people from the north call them ah-rah-koon-em, which
means they rub, scrub and scratch. (Raccoon) Winter Moon and Chief Shingas watched quietly as ah-rah-koon-
em feasted on frogs, salamanders and crayfish. Chief wondered if the ah-rah-koon-em were eating the strange
fish.
Chief remembered that he and Winter Moon hadn’t eaten for quite some time. They were hungry and needed to
seize some of this fresh meat. (Fish and Raccoons) The Chief looked at his bare hands and remembered that
he presented his hunting knife to George Washington before he encountered that fateful floating lightning ball.
(Popping a Qwiff) Bummer! (Bummer!) The Chief considered his options. He needed to find a yew branch and
a piece of sinew. (used to make Bow and Arrow) They padded along a stone path lined with oddly shaped trees.
These trees were stripped of their branches from top to bottom and connected at the tops with vines. (Telephone
Poles) White Man’s Magic?
Chief Shingas looked up at the stars once again to get his directional bearings and motioned for Winter Moon to
head west.
They walked slowly with trepidation in their hearts. The sky indicated that they were home, but what were these
enormous stone structures? (Buildings) The structures reminded him of limestone and shale outcroppings that
overlook the valleys and rise up from the riverbanks. Further along, these structures flanked them from either
side. Some were the color of stone; others were a set of inlaid stones, uniformly hewn and wore the color of a
Red Fox. (Brick Buildings) In one area the stones were even the color of water. Each structure held identical
panels that reflected an image of the face of Chief Shingas. (Windows) Other panels were much larger, large
enough to contain the image of Chief Shingas from head to toe plus the image of Winter Moon in her entirety.
(Doors)
They threaded their way through a passageway. (Railroad Trestle) The sides and the ground were made of solid
seamless stonework. The Chief smiled to himself as he admired the unusual picture writing. (Lighthouse Mural)
What tribe painted these? What do the shapes signify? When were they painted? The top framework consisted
of 2 horizontally-fallen trees supported by a series of short timbers all stripped of their branches. (Railroad
Bridge) Who would strip so many trees like this? Why would somebody build this passageway? This
passageway was not there yesterday.
Suddenly an earsplitting whine much like that of a coyote howling at the moon, came from a horseless wagon that
was speeding up hill. (Sirens) The top of this particular horseless wagon held spinning colorful moon-like orbs,
the color of fire and the color of water. (Police Car) On the front of the wagon a pair of silvery moon-like orbs lit
their pathway. (Headlights) The Chief encountered other horseless wagons in motion. He could understand
them heading down hill but what pulled the others up? (Cars) The Chief and Winter Moon continued their
westward journey up hill towards their next destination.
Can you help Chief Shingas and Winter Moon? Can you find their destination?
Chief Shingas Chapter 2
Where in the Rocks is Chief Shingas?
Chapter 2
Chief Shingas Delaware Tribe
Chief Shingas was in the window of the McKees Rocks Fire Department
Our last episode brought Chief Shingas to Phil’s Archery on 713 Chartiers Avenue. Phil welcomed the Chief into
his shop but was taken aback by Winter Moon, his she-wolf companion. Knowing that she would return on
command, the Chief instructed Winter Moon to disappear. She took off towards the east. Phil was a little more at
ease. The Chief had never seen such a magnificent array of hunting equipment. Once Phil understood the Chief’
s particular needs he presented a hunting bow and a quiver of custom made arrows for the Chief.
Brandishing his new hunting gear, Chief Shingas turned towards the sunrise and made great strides towards the
Native American burial mound. Along the trail he encountered an enormous trading post.(Chartiers Crossing)
People wearing strange clothes, different from the garb worn by George Washington, were milling about in every
direction. Some of these people spoke of “men of fire”. Although this piqued his curiosity his immediate agenda
was to reclaim his beloved Winter Moon. He made his way back to the murky creek where he initially met with
George Washington. That was the fateful day when Chief Shingas popped a qwif of a quantum leap into the year
2009. Once he found the exact spot where George Washington faded away Chief Shingas whistled for Winter
Moon. The sky darkened and a lightning ball rolled through the sky. The Chief squinted his eyes hard until he
could make out a ghostly mirage of Winter Moon. The mirage became a form – then back to mirage – then Winter
Moon appeared in all her canine glory in response to her master’s command. He looked up and set eyes on the
Native American burial mound built in 250 B.C. by the Adena people. The Mound was only partially intact but still
recognizable in Chief Shingas’s eyes.
The Chief and Winter Moon, unified once again, were off to discover the “men of fire”. They followed a screaming
sound, not made by humans or animals and discovered enormous horseless wagons the color of fire.(fire truck)
This weeks winner is Linda Hippensteel. She wins a $25 Eat & Park Gift certificate compliments of McKees Rocks
VFD
Episode 3
Part 3
Our last episode brought Chief Shingas and Winter Moon to visit the men of fire at the McKees Rocks Boro Fire
Department. The muscular Chief fit right in with the broad-shouldered fire fighters. It was a very hot day in
McKees Rocks but why did the men of fire perpetually talk about things that were “cool”? One of the guys, Nick,
stretched the word out pronouncing it as
“co-o-o-o-l”. What was that all about? Chief Shingas spoke very fluent English and communicated extremely well
with George Washington. These men of fire talked funny even though they were speaking English.
Chief Shingas and Winter Moon needed a break. They searched for a shady place to stretch their weary legs.
Winter Moon led the Chief to a freshly hewn Black Cherry tree. Winter Moon recognized the scent on the
tomahawk next to it. It was the same tomahawk that Chief Shingas had given to George Washington the day of
that dreadful storm – the day the thin veil separating the year 1753 from the year 2009 thinned out, pulling Chief
Shingas and Winter Moon with a powerful, irresistible force into a realm where no man - or wolf - has ever gone
before. With an angry snort Chief Shingas attached his tomahawk to his belt with a cord of leather. The men of
fire could’ve used this. They aimed their hike west towards shade.
Chief Shingas discovered another curiosity . . . a set of 3 vertical “lights” is what Phil called them(traffic light). The
top light the color of fire - the bottom light the color of grass – the light in the center the color of the sun. The
Chief and Winter Moon froze in their tracks as he tried to make sense of these lights. The horseless carriages
“cars” as the men of fire called them – came to a sudden and abrupt halt when the top lights gleamed. The
gleaming bottom lights, sometimes an arrow, would cause the cars to move. The shining middle lights would make
the cars go very, very fast. They watched for a vastly long time trying to make sense of this new world. The Chief
stood as tall as his diminutive stature would allow holding a long leather cord tethered to Winter Moon. A herd of
people happened by. The Chief and Winter Moon remained motionless. One woman wore her papoose on her
back. Another papoose rode in a little wheeled carriage that his mother controlled from behind. The people
giggled and pointed to the weird and wonderful effigy before them. A man pulled a green piece of paper, the
length of his hand – from his pocket and placed it into the Chief’s hand (dollar bill). The others copied his
behavior. The chuckling people moved on to the trading post. The Chief examined these green papers and was
astonished to see an image of his old friend George Washington. He turned the paper over and noticed the
image of a teepee with a person’s eye centered on top, some silly markings and a Bald Eagle. He folded the
papers and tucked them into his leather pouch.
They threaded their way through the same passageway (railroad trestle) they discovered in an earlier episode.
The sides and the ground were made of solid seamless stonework. The Chief reminded himself that Phil (from
Phil’s Archery) explained the unusual picture writing is actually called a “mural” of a lighthouse beacon.
The two encountered a proud building (Post Office). Chief Shingas raised his eyes to see 2 pieces of decorated
fabric unfurl in the breeze (flags). One fabric was the color of an autumn sky and a Bald Eagle centered between
two black horses. The fabric above it looked vaguely familiar – almost like one carried by George Washington’s
men.
Winter Moon slowed her gait into a halt. Chief Shingas noticed her ears were pointed and alert, her tail wagged
quickly. He aimed his gaze towards hers to discover happy people feasting on something the color of milk with the
consistency of clay. The Chief watched children file their way to an opening where pretty woman named Tammy
politely cooed “May I help you?” The child gave the woman a green paper; the woman reciprocated with
sustenance (ice cream cone). The child giggled and offered her purchase to her dog. Chief Shingas and Winter
Moon waited patiently taking in the protocol. The Chief made his way to the opening with pretty young woman,
handed her a green paper and said “co-o-o-o-e-w-el blizzard”. The woman handed the Chief a coin (bearing
George Washington’s image) and 2 servings of something the color of milk with the consistency of clay.
Chief Shingas moved away from the opening and offered the smaller serving to Winter Moon. He smiled as he
lapped up his own.
Where are Chief Shingas and Winter Moon?
.They were at the Shake and Twist, formerly the Tastee Freeze. The winner this week was Jan Pfister!
Episode 4
Chief Shingas Delaware Tribe
Episode 4
After Chief Shingas and Winter Moon enjoyed their ice cream cones at the Twist & Shake, the chief decided that
the food in this dimension was really quite different than what he was used to…and boy did he like it!! He headed
back toward the Indian Mound, going through the great stone tunnel and passing the trading post (Chartiers
Crossing) where the people were carrying large sacks with all sorts of things the Chief didn’t recognize. He walked
along the rivers edge and saw the ducks. He remembered the ducks from another time and place and just being
by the river made him feel more at home. Winter moon ran up and down the bank as a large boat…so much
bigger than the canoes that they remembered…came down the river. It was the largest boat the Chief had ever
seen. He sat on the bank and watched as the boat headed down the river. After a while the Chief headed back
towards the Indian Mound. He climbed to the top and looked around….things were so different…where were the
woods and the Indian Village? And what were those big round things (Oil Tanks)on the side of the Mound? He
and Winter Moon headed down into the village below and followed along a large wall with holes(Road along the
Rox bridge). He saw another painting like the one he saw the first day he came to this dimension (the mural along
the wall of the Rox bridge). As he walked along, a large moving box (truck)came toward him and he moved quickly
to get out of the way. He touched his hatchet that hung on his belt…he debated about whether he should go
after it and attack…after a minute, he thought that probably wouldn’t be a good idea and besides, it moved so
fast, he couldn’t see it anymore…it was as if it had disappeared!(it had gone up the ramp) He walked towards the
area that the big moving box had come from. The sun was directly overhead and the Chief was thirsty. He saw
some men walking with something that looked like it held some liquid (bottle of water). One of the men was holding
some kind of food in his hand and as Chief Shingas looked on, the man began to eat the food.(Carol Ann's
breakfast sandwich - they're the best!) The Chief walked toward the place the men had come from. Other men
were going towards the same place and the Chief followed them in. Where is the Chief now?
The Chief and Winter Moon were at Carol Ann's Store in the Bottoms. This week's winner was Vickie Batcha.
Email your answer to mckeesrocksnews@yahoo.com.
For all the Chief's journeys through the Rocks, click the link below
Episode 5
Episode #5
Our last cliff-hanging episode brought the Chief and Winter Moon to the famous Carol Ann’s Corner Store. A
friendly man named Jimmy greeted Chief Shingas in the Chief’s native language, “Hey!” and waved him over
towards himself. The Chief and Winter Moon sidled over towards the dining area and replied, “Hey!” Jimmy was
not taken aback by Chief Shingas, or by his clothing or Winter Moon. The Chief parked himself in a chair
opposite of Jimmy. A woman brandishing a writing implement and tablet sauntered by. “What’ll it be, Chief?” she
asked. Chief Shingas gave her a quizzical look. Jimmy chimed in “A breakfast sandwich and a cup of coffee
would be cool, Lo-ee”. Chief Shingas was really in the mood for something hot but trusted Jimmy’s judgment.
While waiting for their food Jimmy filled the Chief in on some of the local language. Before long all the men and
women at Carol Ann’s echoed the Chief’s shouts “Go Stillers!” and “Hey yinz guys!” Lo-ee returned with a tray full
of food and a pot of coffee for the guys. She presented a very special treat to Winter Moon. The Chief drained
his cup and taught the locals the Delaware words “millee-KOP-ee” for “Give me coffee,” and “Mit-SEET-um” for
“Let’s eat!”
Chief really enjoyed the breakfast sandwich – and to his surprise, it was hot. The bread tasted much differently
from what he was used to. In his dimension the Delaware women made bread by roasting bitter acorns, and
crushing them in a wooden mortar. They would rinse them in hot water, then pound them into flour to make bread.
Jimmy, Chief Shingas and Winter Moon made fast friends. Jimmy talked about his world and asked the Chief
many, many questions about his. After several pots of Carol Ann’s award-winning coffee they headed back to the
Indian Mound.
Jimmy knew everything there was to know about the village called McKees Rocks and generously shared his
stories with the Chief. Jimmy expressed a sadness that most of the Indian Mound has been excavated and that
only remnants of the original burial mound remain. They talked and talked well into the night. When they looked
up to the sky the Chief pointed to a brilliant star. Jimmy told him it’s called “Jupiter”. All too soon it was time for
Jimmy to head on home.
Chief Shingas and Winter Moon dozed by the mound until dawn. As the sun rose he gazed into the east to see a
sky adorned with a labyrinth of colorful ribbons.
He thought about the Great Spirit or Great Manito who was present in all living things. Chief Shingas felt closer to
the lesser spirits, or Manitowuk, which were found in nature and held a deep reverence for his natural
environment. He wanted to give something back to Manitowuk to show thanks for the wonderful breakfast
sandwich and his new friend Jimmy. The Delaware people regarded tobacco as a sacred plant and grew it for
both ceremonial and personal use. He needed to acquire some tobacco to give back to the earth.
Chief Shingas and Winter Moon walked along the river. A Great Blue Heron and some Canada Geese were
hanging out. Cormorants stretched their wings for the sun to dry them out. Suddenly they heard the sound of a
mighty wind – maybe a tornado heading towards them. They leaped down behind the riverbank and peered
upwards to see an astonishing sight. Boxes on wheels – many of them tethered together - roared past them at an
incredible speed.(Train) Why must everything in this dimension be so fast? How he longed for the simplicity of his
life.
Finally the noisy boxes disappeared around the bend. The Chief dusted himself off and reassured Winter Moon
that they were safe. As they continued along the river the Chief smelled smoke – tobacco smoke. They
encountered a man who was smoking. Chief Shingas pointed to the man’s pipe and said “Ho-BO-ken”, the
Delaware word for “pipe tobacco”. The man replied “Yo, Dude!” Chief pointed towards himself and replied “me
not Yo Dude. Me Chief Shingas! Need ho-BO-ken to give to Manitowuk. I will trade cash.” The pipe smoker
nodded his head towards a place where Chief Shingas could trade cash for ho-BO-ken – a large stone structure
set apart from the rest (Rite Aid).
Where did Chief Shingas find his pipe tobacco? Look for his picture...you'll see him..
He was at Rite Aid.
This weeks winner was Jan Pfister.
Episode 6
Episode #6
Our last episode brought Chief Shingas to Rite Aid Pharmacy located in Chartiers Crossing where he acquired his
tobacco. The Chief placed it into his leather pouch to keep it safe.
Why was this tobacco so crucial to the Chief?
The Delaware Tribe believed that tobacco was sacred and must be treated with respect. Tobacco smoke was
frequently used as an offering to the spirits. His intent was to build a holy fire and toss his tobacco onto it. The
tobacco smoke would serve as an offering to the spirits.
According to Delaware tradition, the Creator had helpers to do various jobs. The most popular helper was
Mesingw. His job was to protect the animals, but he also had to see that man had enough to eat. Mesingw would
tell the animals that some of them would have to sacrifice their lives to feed man, but after death they would be
born again and be even more beautiful. He ordered man never to kill more animals than were needed to feed
their family. Before killing an animal, man must ask its permission.
Chief Shingas’s thoughts went back to Carol Ann’s Corner Store where he filled up on the yummy breakfast
sandwiches. He regretted that he was unable to seek permission from the animal that gave its life for the cool
(but actually hot) sandwiches. Even though the Chief was in his own realm in the year 1753 when the animal was
slain, he must somehow make amends for this horrendous oversight. Traditional Mesingw law states that tobacco
must be offered at the site of the kill to be sure the animal's spirit is released. Since nobody really knew where
this animal was slain, Chief Shingas must discover a holy place for his sacrificial fire.
As Chief Shingas left the Rite Aid he caught a glimpse of his reflection. He looked all wrong. His appearance was
not appropriate to conduct a sacred ritual. He needed adornments. He headed west. He and Winter Moon
paused when they reached the now familiar passageway painted with a lighthouse beacon (RR underpass).
Winter Moon stood quietly as the Chief eyed the mural. The Delaware men painted their faces with different
colors and designs for different occasions. He needed paint – paint and quills from “kawiya”, the Delaware word
for porcupine. He asked Mesingw for help. Just as he looked up towards the heavens an arrow, the color of
grass, lit up. Although it was only the traffic light Chief Shingas interpreted the green arrow as a sign from
Mesingw and thanked him.
They followed the direction of the arrow (Island Ave). Winter Moon lifted her nose towards the sky to take in the
scents. Aromas of succulent food flanked them from both sides of their path.(Doughboys, Pierogies Plus, Mama
Mias) Chief made a mental note to stop along this route very soon, but not today.
Before long they encountered young people. Chief Shingas deduced that they must be warriors. Their heads
were completely shaved except for a row in the middle from forehead to nape –similar to the young Delaware
warriors. “Hey yinz guys!” hailed the Chief. “Yo Dude,” replied the warriors. The Chief pointed to an image on
one warrior’s neck and exclaimed “Elahkënasu!” the Delaware term meaning “he is painted”. “Where can I get
paint and quills from kawiya? The young warrior offered a polite nod, cocked his thumb and pointed behind
himself.
Where did the young warrior send Chief Shingas and Winter Moon?
The Chief and Winter Moon were at Island Ave Tattoo!
The winner was Jan Pfister and she won a $50 Certificate to Island Ave Tattoo
Click below for info on Island Avenue Tattoo
http://www.islandavetattooco.com/
Episode 7
Episode #7
Our last spine-tingling episode brought Chief Shingas and Winter Moon to Island Avenue Tattoos. Men from the
Delaware Tribe often wore tattoos of animal designs. Jim, the tattoo artist, fashioned a remarkable likeness of
Winter Moon on the Chief’s upper arm using a noisy apparatus made from white man’s magic. He wore gloves
over his hands as he worked. They were not the ornate leather gloves the Chief’s people used. Jim’s gloves
were made from an animal the Chief never heard of before. Jim called them “latex”. Chief Shingas looked around
the shop and set his eyes upon the longest porcupine quills he’d ever seen. He told Jim about how his people
would use pieces of bone or porcupine quills to etch their tattoos and how the women used the quills to decorate
clothing made from deerskins. Jim replied that the quills in his shop came not from an American Porcupine, but
another species, the African Porcupine, that lives on the other side of the great ocean. The artist worked quickly
and flawlessly. Soon they bid each other farewell.
Chief Shingas decided that he and Winter Moon should head back to the Indian Mound to re-group. They
overheard somebody say that the McKees Rocks Bridge was closed for repair. How would they get to the
Mound? He paused to collect his sense of direction when a familiar voice called out to him. It was Nick, the Man
of Fire. Winter Moon wagged her tail in recognition. Nick was driving his own box on wheels – his “car” is what he
called it. He stopped and flung the door open. “Need a lift, Chief?” The Chief had seen these cars before – lots
of them – but never traveled in one. He entered the vehicle with just a little apprehension and sat next to Nick;
Winter Moon bounded joyfully into the back. The Chief began to relax once Nick put his car into gear and drove
slowly towards the Mound.
The Chief proudly showed Nick his new tattoo and his pouch of sacred tobacco telling him about the preparations
for his upcoming ceremony. He asked Nick where he could locate a “pochenikan”(drum) a sacred apparatus that
was absolutely crucial for his ceremony. Not knowing the English word for it, the Chief mimed “pochenikan”. Nick
instantly understood and gave the Chief a specific location.
They reached the Mound much faster than the Chief had ever traveled before. Nick said they traveled at 25 miles
per hour! What is a mile?
Nick stopped the car and opened the door so that the Chief and the wolf could continue on their journey. Winter
Moon’s ears perked up as she heard the sound of the ducks splashing in the river. She bounded into the
malodorous brine with reckless abandon sending the Mallards and Black Ducks into a frenzied flight. She
returned to the Chief holding a feather between her teeth. Feathers carry a highly religious meaning in the
Delaware tribe. The Chief needed this one for his religious ceremony. He thanked his wolf for bringing it to him
and carefully placed it into his pouch with the pipe tobacco. Winter Moon shook the river water away from her fur,
but the smell remained. Chief Shingas ordered her to sleep a short distance away from himself. He gazed into
the stars and located the reddish tint of Mars before drifting off to sleep.
They awakened to see a glorious sunrise. They shuffled through the fallen leaves and wondered why there
weren’t any chestnut leaves. It was Indian Summer – the warm weather that follows the first hard frost. Why is the
white man so obsessed with the term “Indian”? The two of them headed down into the village below and followed
along the large wall with holes(McKees Rocks Bridge wall). They passed the enormous wall painting (mural on
the bridge) and continued on to the trading post (Chartiers Crossing). Again..a wall with a hole!(Roxian Theater)
They encountered a landmark, the “tankhannen” that Nick instructed the Chief about.(Chartiers Creek) They
traipsed along the “tankhannen” until they reached their next destination.
Where are Chief Shingas and Winter Moon now?
They were at Hollowood's Music Store to buy a drum for his ceremony.
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Episode #8
Our last chilling episode brought Chief Shingas and Winter Moon to Hollowood Music And Sound. Jim Hollowood
listened attentively as the Chief explained his need for a drum. The drum used by the Delaware tribe in 1780 was
a thin deer-skin stretched across a barrel. He explained to Jim that the Delaware ceremony is a sacred event not
to be taken lightly. The Chief had already acquired his blessed pipe tobacco thanks to Rite Aid; and ritualistic
tattoos, thanks to Island Avenue Tattoos.
Chief Shingas’s thoughts went back to Carol Ann’s Corner Store where he enjoyed the breakfast sandwiches. He
regretted that he was unable to seek permission from the animal that gave its life for the sandwiches. His intent
was to build a holy fire and toss his tobacco onto it as an offering to the spirits. Mesingw would then release the
animal's spirit so it could be born again.
The Chief chose a drum that was most appropriate for his ceremony. Jim recommended that he hold onto it until
the Chief could build an appropriate dwelling.
Winter Moon led the empty-handed Chief back to the Indian Mound to regroup. They hung out for a while and
tried to relax under the full moon when suddenly they encountered what they thought was a lightening bolt – or
maybe a floating ball - never imagining that this quantum wave collapse was actually “popping a qwiff” . . . the first
step to taking a quantum leap.
Editor’s Note: In McKees Rocks-eeze “popping a qwiff” is just like entering the time machine invented by the be-
spectacled pooch Mr. Peabody and his pet boy Sherman.
The sky blackened as the lightning ball sped off. Buckets of rain plunged to the earth. The flimsy veil separating
the year 1753 from the year 2009 thinned itself out. The Chief was astonished to see his old friend George
Washington slowly appear into a ghostly form, then fade out again and then return thoroughly developed in
human form. They greeted each other enthusiastically. They skipped stones across the river as Chief Shingas
told George Washington about his adventures into the year 2009 and how he first visited Phil’s Archery. The men
clad in 1753 attire vied for the longest toss and the highest number of skips. After they tested stones of various
sizes and shapes Chief Shingas reached into his pouch for the coins he acquired from the Tastee Freeze. He
tossed one himself and handed the other to the General. General Washington examined it carefully taking in the
likeness of himself. He frowned and snorted, “This doesn’t look like me at all!” and angrily hurled the coin to the
opposite side of the river. Just as the coin hit the riverbank General Washington catapulted himself back into his
own realm.
Chief Shingas was tired of getting caught in the rain and decided to construct a dwelling just big enough for
himself, Winter Moon and his ceremonial paraphernalia. He built an oval shaped framework of fallen trees and
covered it with large sheets of bark. Normally a bedding of White Pine needles covered the floor. What
happened to all the White Pine trees? He could only find pine trees that shed shorter sharper needles. He
spread a layer of the shorter pine needles on the ground to absorb moisture; he then wove bedding from reeds
that grew along the river.
As he and Winter Moon relaxed in their shelter, Mesingw reminded Chief Shingas of his mission. . . his sacred
ceremony. The Chief needed to acquire Gentgeen. The two departed from their cozy dwelling at sunrise heading
down into the village below(Bottoms). They learned how to travel invisibly so they wouldn’t attract a crowd of
spectators. They followed along the large wall with holes(Agnes Street). They passed the enormous wall painting
(Bridge) and continued on through the trading post(Chartiers Crossing). Winter Moon indicated that they should
pause when they reached an octagon symbol the color of fire(Traffic light). The Chief looked into the clouds for a
sign. The sun raking through the clouds in long thin rays looked like Mesingw’s eyelashes. Chief Shingas
lowered his eyes just a tad and saw an arrow, the color of grass, light up. Although it was only the traffic light
Chief Shingas interpreted the green arrow as a sign from Mesingw and thanked him. They followed the arrow
onto a familiar path flanked on either side with large stone dwellings(Chartiers Avenue). They soon reached their
destination . . . this time they didn’t need to go as far as the lighthouse mural.
Where did Chief Shingas and Winter Moon acquire Gentgeen?
Chief Shingas and Winter Moon went to the Father Ryan Art Center for dancers for the ceremony. The winner
was David Mulvihill.ple Content: Please login and update it!
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Episode #9
Our last stormy episode brought Chief Shingas and Winter Moon to the Father Ryan Art Center. They made
themselves visible once again. Father Ryan welcomed them with a warm handshake and gathered dancers for
their Holy Ceremony. He gave them a tour of the Center, the theatre, and Sandy’s Cafe. The three of them went
down a hallway where they encountered a very tiny room. The Priest smiled and motioned for them to enter.
Once inside Winter Moon curiously sniffed a bright orb causing the doors to close by themselves. The tiny room
propelled them into an upper dimension of the Center. Father Ryan motioned for them out of the tiny room
leading them to an arts and crafts room where The Chief discovered a wooden mask of Mesingw. Half of the face
was painted red, the other half black – a fundamental piece for Delaware Tribe ceremonies. In the Chief’s own
realm people wore a necklace with a stone face of Mesingw for luck. Mesingw could grant any wish.
Chief Shingas carried the mask of Mesingw to the Indian Mound with Winter Moon and the dancers in tow.
The biggest spiritual celebration of the Delaware Tribe Feast of Dreams takes place during the Winter Solstice on
December 21. In ancient times they carried out a 12-day ritual reenactment of the trek taken by Sky Bear – what
we know as Ursa Major or The Big Dipper.
Chief Shingas lit his Holy Fire Circle within a ring of stones that he put together. Tobacco was important to the
Delaware Tribe. Both the tobacco and the pipes for smoking it were thought to be sacred. They were treated
with respect and used according to the proper rituals. Chief Shingas tossed his pipe tobacco onto the fire to
initiate the Ceremony.
The Holy Fire attracted much attention. First the Men of Fire arrived on their red horseless carriage; siren
screaming the entire way. The commotion attracted Jimmy Hollowood’s attention. He tore out of his music store
so fast that he still carried the drum he was playing for some browsing musicians. The browsing musicians raced
after him while continuing to hold various woodwind and percussion instruments.
The Chief was grateful for the arrival of the drum, dancers, percussionists and especially to the Men of Fire for
drawing such an enormous crowd to the Ceremony. Once he began beating the drum the browsing musicians
chimed in and the others began their stomp dance around the Holy Fire Circle. The dancers performed in a
counter-clockwise manner. Every culture since time immemorial has celebrated life and the body with dance. All
people carry the memory of dance in their blood and bones and the dancers soon began to move with the rhythm
of the chant. The Chief led the song alternating each phrase with the chorus. Then they sang songs in unison
after the Chief lined out the beginning phrase of the song.
The songs were short, while performances were long, with many cyclical repetitions.
The Delaware Tribe Feast of Dreams dance continued throughout the night until dawn of the next day. Although
the dance is not meant to be a grueling and physically challenging event, almost every participant danced well
into the morning.
The ado attracted people within walking distance of the Indian Mound. An inquisitive family whose backyard abuts
the Mound joined in the festivities. They were tremendously impressed with the religious symbolism and the
camaraderie exhibited by the participants who re-enacted the Delaware Winter Solstice. The wind blew a bone-
chilling breeze across the river; a breeze that took residence on the riverbank and within the breath of all those
who gathered there. The inquisitive family peeked into Chief Shingas’s dwelling – an oval shaped framework of
fallen trees and covered with large sheets of bark. They couldn’t let this powerful Chief and his wolf Winter Moon
– these icons from generations past - spend the winter in such a drafty dwelling, especially with Christmas right
around the corner. They decided unquestionably that Chief Shingas and Winter Moon were to reside with them
until the weather gets a little better. Since he will be spending Christmas with Joni and Rich (and learning about
Serbian customs) he won’t be traveling about until after the new year. When 2010 begins, he will be wandering
the Rocks again and the game will continue…..
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Episode #10 Happy New Year!
Our last sizzling episode brought Chief Shingas back to the Indian Mound where he led the folks of McKees Rocks
in his Holy Ceremony. Joni and Rich invited the Chief and Winter Moon to be their houseguests for the Christmas
Holiday Season. The Chief insisted that he bring his blanket of animal fur even though Joni assured him that she
had plenty of bedding. When Rich unlocked his front door a delicate aroma of food spilled out and filled the air.
They entered the kitchen and felt the heat radiating throughout the house. The Chief did not see a fire. Where
was their fire? How did Joni cook and how did Rich warm their house without a fire?
Winter Moon howled as she noticed the housecats. Willow and Buffy hissed then raced up the draperies for
shelter. The Chief yanked the manner-less she-wolf outside to the back porch to settle her. Everything was
every bit as strange to Winter Moon as it was to the Chief. Rich joined them with a plate of hot food for the Wolf
and invited the Chief back inside for their feast.
The Serbian customs reminded Chief Shingas of those customs of the Delaware Tribe’s – food, drink, music,
singing and dancing followed by more of the same. The Serbian food gave off flavors and varieties, spices and
sauces, sugars and delicacies all new to the Chief. Their drinks . . . some were bubbly and sweet while others
were dry and tart. The music came not from drums, reeds and percussion, but from a box that Rich needed to
adjust from time to time. Overwhelmed with all the newness of this Christmas Eve celebration The Chief gathered
up his animal skin blanket, a glass of his dry and tart drink, and headed for the porch where he slept quite
soundly next to Winter Moon.
When the eastern sun rose Joni greeted the Chief with a hot cup of coffee. She invited him into the house and
began to whip up hot breakfast for everybody. Rich excitedly told the Chief about a popular American game
called “football”. The Chief replied “Go Stillers!” After breakfast everybody bundled up and sauntered over to
Ranger Field where the Chief demonstrated “Pahsaheman”, the Delaware Tribe’s version of football. The game
began when Chief Shingas charged to the center of the field and hurled the ball straight up into the air. The
players jumped up and tried to knock it towards their own goal posts. Before long Ranger Field was teeming with
men and women of all ages.
According to Delaware tradition the teams were divided men against the women. The men may only kick the ball,
but the women may throw it or run with it. The men do not tackle the women, but the women may tackle or grab
the men as they please. Their goalposts are tall poles that rise at either end of the field but lack a crosspiece.
The Serbian holiday continued for 12 days – much like the Delaware celebration of the Great Bear. Rich and Joni
celebrated another holiday unheard of by the Chief – New Years Eve - consisting of food, drink, music, singing,
dancing; once again followed by more of the same. This year was special. Rich and Joni referred to the New
Years Eve Full Moon as a “Blue Moon”. What is a Blue Moon?
According to Chuck Tague, Nature Observer News,
“A Blue Moon, or Betrayer Moon, is necessary to keep the lunar cycle aligned with the solar year, especially in
naming systems that link each Moon to events in nature, agriculture or religion. The Moon’s orbit of the Earth
takes about 27.32 days, or not quite a month. During the solar year there are 12 lunar cycles plus approximately
11 days. Every three years or so an extra Full Moon occurs that would have the Harvest Moon shine before the
crops are ready or place Passover, Easter or other spring celebrations weeks before the vernal equinox.” For
more information on this and other natural history, visit
http://web.me.com/kingrail/Natureobserver/Blog/Blog.html
The Delaware Tribe closely watched the phases of the moon. They considered the number twelve to be a sacred
number, possibly from the scales on the shell of the turtle. The turtle wears twelve marginal scales on each side
of the back, and twelve plus one on the top, which correspond with the 12 lunar cycles (or 13 lunar cycles in the
event of a Blue Moon) in a Delaware year. Chief Shingas concluded that Americans will celebrate just about
anything.
Chief Shingas and Winter Moon decided to go back to their dwelling near the Indian Mound. They were grateful
for their new friends’ hospitality but missed the wildness of their lives. They didn’t need food for a few days, but
once Chief Shingas became hungry he wanted something similar to Joni’s cooking. They needed to talk to Joni
and find out how to get the delicious and unusual food that she made. For the moment, though, they decided to
stay on the mound....so check back next week and see if they managed to find the food the Chief liked.
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Chief Shingas Delaware Tribe
Episode #11
Time After Time
Our last heart-warming episode brought Chief Shingas and Winter Moon back to the Indian Mound – the place
where they met with George Washington in the year 1753.
Chief Shingas and Winter Moon watched the shards of sunlight rake through the clouds. Chief Shingas
wondered, “Where did we come from . . . and where are we going?”
He discussed this question at length with the friends he met in the year 2009. Since the beginning of time, this
question has loomed over people from the greatest priests and astronomers to the lowliest shepherds and
astrologers. Buddhists conflict with Islamists. Evolutionists war with creationists. Fundamentalist Christians
campaign with Catholics. Who’s right?
The Chief was contemplating everything and nothing. He watched Winter Moon as she stared towards the
horizon carrying the wisdom of the ages in her eyes. What was going on in her mind? Suddenly she catapulted
herself from her perch and hurled herself to the riverbank howling with the ferocity of a mother wolf protecting her
young. The Chief stood up to see what the commotion was about. He aimed his gaze towards the direction of
Winter Moon’s concern. The interloper, a Gray Squirrel, was the recipient of Winter Moon’s admonishment. He
lured Winter Moon back and settled her down. She laid next to him with her head on his lap, content that she
protected her home and her person from the evil squirrel. The Chief stroked her head. Winter Moon sat up and
stretched as the Chief thought, “My wolf and I and nothing else: we live for the moment”.
Eventually boredom crept into their Zen and Winter Moon began to complain. Chief Shingas got up and the two
began to mosey. She danced and pranced, sniffed and whiffed, marked and barked. She pointed her nose
towards the river where a flock of Ring-billed Gulls hung out. She tracked an Eastern Cottontail, lost its scent but
then discovered some White-tailed Deer scat. What a day! What a day!
They headed back to the Mound where Winter Moon entered their dwelling. She’s a little too quiet. Chief
Shingas checked her to discover that she found a frozen hambone that Joni had given to her. Yippee! She rolled
on it then tossed it into the air in pure delight. She ran from the dwelling to the mound with it before her final
retreat into the dwelling where she buried it in the Chief’s bedding. What jubilation!
She joined the Chief as he continued his thoughts. Where do we go from here? Is an angelic heaven in the stars
for him? Would he remain on this earth and in this realm to suffer tribulation after a Pentecostal Rapture? Maybe
he’ll reincarnate into a female sea turtle sentenced to spend the next 500 years swimming happily from one ocean
current to the next; deposit a few thousand eggs over the years for wide-eyed bushy-tailed environmentalists to
nurture and release back into the sea.
He considered the lessons he learned from the White Man and the ancient traditions that he taught them. He
ruminated about his adventures in McKees Rocks; and about how he gathered sacred artifacts, singers and
dancers to perform his Holy Ceremony.
He looked at his tattoo of Winter Moon and pulled his she-wolf close to his heart. He asked the Creator, “Where
did we come from . . . and where are we going? Does it really matter?” The clouds parted allowing the sun to
shine on Chief Shingas and Winter Moon. They closed their eyes. They gently drifted back into their realm in the
year 1753 with a whisper, “Go Stillers” on the lips of Chief Shingas.
The game is on hold for now. Prizes have been awarded to the first persons who came up with the various
McKees Rocks locations. All correct entries are now eligible for a grand prize raffle. The grand prize is $100 and
was generously donated by Representative Nick Kotik. We will post the winner very soon.
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Chief Shingas
Or Popping a Qwiff with George Washington
Back in the day various Native American tribes including Adena (Mound Builders), Hopewell and Shawnee, were
moving in and out of McKees Rocks. The Delaware Tribe led by Chief Shingas, aka 'Shingas the Terrible', was
the dominating factor in McKees Rocks in 1753. During this era George Washington was checking out the lay of
the land to find the best location to build a fort – a sturdy fort – that would protect the expected wave of settlers
from both Indians and the French flotilla.
George Washington was granted the privilege to meet up with Chief Shingas to negotiate the deal. Chief Shingas
recommended the Mound, built by the Adena in 250 B.C. would be a perfect location. The Mound is 161 feet tall
and 85 feet in diameter. Washington rejected this site. He reasoned that the Mound was 'greatly inferior' since its
steep slopes would make the development difficult, pricey and much more complicated to defend. Later on
Washington selected the “Forks” area, as a better location for Fort Pitt.
Anyway, as George Washington and Chief Shingas were just hanging out along the banks of Chartiers Creek in
the Rocks they encountered what they thought was a lightning bolt – or maybe a floating ball - never imagining
that this quantum wave collapse was actually “popping a qwiff” . . . the first step to taking a quantum leap.
Editor’s Note: In McKees Rocks-eeze “popping a qwiff” is just like entering the time machine invented by the be-
spectacled pooch Mr. Peabody and his pet boy Sherman.
The sky blackened as the lightning ball sped off. Buckets of rain plunged to the earth. The thin veil separating
the year 1753 from the year 2009 thinned itself out, sucking Chief Shingas and his guide Winter Moon into a
realm where no man - or wolf - has ever gone before. The Chief was astonished . . . George Washington slowly
faded away into a ghostly form until he thoroughly disappeared. The man and wolf gazed at each other.
Something about each other’s essence was different. Their aura, however, never changed.
The storm ended just as abruptly as it began. The northwest wind parted the clouds to reveal the moon. The Full
Moon brought a sense of calm and familiarity to the Chief. Many winters ago the Chief was born under the full
moon. Only a few winters ago his she-wolf companion came to life beneath a full moon. The Chief named his wolf
companion Winter Moon to honor the name of his own Spirit Guide.
What’s going on? The baffled Chief Shingas thrived on a good mystery. His sense of curiosity and determination
to solve this mystery usurped any misgivings that tried to develop within him. Both Winter Moons, Spirit Guide
and she-wolf, were with him, guiding him and encouraging him. Together they faced life’s uncertainties, defeated
savage marauders and braved the legions of hell. Together they straddled this ambiguous line of demarcation
separating the “then” from the “now”. Together they would make their way through the labyrinth of time.
Chief Shingas and Winter Moon want to meet you. Within the next few weeks they will travel to various merchants
and municipal areas of McKees Rocks, and will leave a portrait as proof. Mckeesrocks.com will chronicle their
journey as seen through the Chief’s eyes. Can you find them? Prizes will be awarded to the first person to email
their location to mckeesrocksnews@yahoo.com. All correct entries will be eligible for a grand prize raffle at the
end of the game. The grand prize is $100 and was generously donated by Representative Nick Kotik. The game
starts next Friday..stay tuned for clues…
Chief Shingas Chapter 1
Chief Shingas was hanging out at Phil’s Archery on Chartiers Avenue. Congratulations to Clara Priddy on being
the first person to email the correct answer. Clara wins $25 compliments of Phil’s Archery and will be included for
the Grand Prize Drawing of $100. Phil Durr has been in business in the Rocks since 1964. He specializes in
custom made arrows. For more information on Phil’s Archery
See the clues below and check next Friday for a new location. The Chief be wandering about…..
Chief Shingas Delaware Tribe
Chapter 1
Chief Shingas looked towards the south to see an astonishing array of stars that he’d never seen before. They
hung below the horizon. Some were different colors, mostly the color of the sun, unlike the silvery stars that
framed the moon. (City Lights) A noisy pair of stars, the color of water and the color of fire, traversed slowly
northward. (Airplane) Was this White Man’s Magic?
The two, man and wolf, hiked along Chartiers Creek – the same creek where as a young man, he and his warrior
friends would run barefoot in the icy cold to toughen themselves up. The creek looked strange. The water was
dark and murky and had a funny odor that the Chief has never smelled before. (Pollution) The fish were so
strange. They were enormous and they wore the colors of flint arrowheads. (Common Carp introduced by
Europeans in 1831) Some were the color of bronze. What were these fish? (Crappy Garbage tossed into the
river in the year 2009)
Winter Moon slowed her gait into a halt. Chief Shingas noticed her ears were pointed and alert, her tail wagged
slowly. He aimed his gaze towards hers to discover another familiar sight. Several pairs of eyes circled with black
against white, furry faces looked up to meet his eyes. The fur on their back was dark as the night sky and their
tails were ringed with black and white. The Algonkin people from the north call them ah-rah-koon-em, which
means they rub, scrub and scratch. (Raccoon) Winter Moon and Chief Shingas watched quietly as ah-rah-koon-
em feasted on frogs, salamanders and crayfish. Chief wondered if the ah-rah-koon-em were eating the strange
fish.
Chief remembered that he and Winter Moon hadn’t eaten for quite some time. They were hungry and needed to
seize some of this fresh meat. (Fish and Raccoons) The Chief looked at his bare hands and remembered that
he presented his hunting knife to George Washington before he encountered that fateful floating lightning ball.
(Popping a Qwiff) Bummer! (Bummer!) The Chief considered his options. He needed to find a yew branch and
a piece of sinew. (used to make Bow and Arrow) They padded along a stone path lined with oddly shaped trees.
These trees were stripped of their branches from top to bottom and connected at the tops with vines. (Telephone
Poles) White Man’s Magic?
Chief Shingas looked up at the stars once again to get his directional bearings and motioned for Winter Moon to
head west.
They walked slowly with trepidation in their hearts. The sky indicated that they were home, but what were these
enormous stone structures? (Buildings) The structures reminded him of limestone and shale outcroppings that
overlook the valleys and rise up from the riverbanks. Further along, these structures flanked them from either
side. Some were the color of stone; others were a set of inlaid stones, uniformly hewn and wore the color of a
Red Fox. (Brick Buildings) In one area the stones were even the color of water. Each structure held identical
panels that reflected an image of the face of Chief Shingas. (Windows) Other panels were much larger, large
enough to contain the image of Chief Shingas from head to toe plus the image of Winter Moon in her entirety.
(Doors)
They threaded their way through a passageway. (Railroad Trestle) The sides and the ground were made of solid
seamless stonework. The Chief smiled to himself as he admired the unusual picture writing. (Lighthouse Mural)
What tribe painted these? What do the shapes signify? When were they painted? The top framework consisted
of 2 horizontally-fallen trees supported by a series of short timbers all stripped of their branches. (Railroad
Bridge) Who would strip so many trees like this? Why would somebody build this passageway? This
passageway was not there yesterday.
Suddenly an earsplitting whine much like that of a coyote howling at the moon, came from a horseless wagon that
was speeding up hill. (Sirens) The top of this particular horseless wagon held spinning colorful moon-like orbs,
the color of fire and the color of water. (Police Car) On the front of the wagon a pair of silvery moon-like orbs lit
their pathway. (Headlights) The Chief encountered other horseless wagons in motion. He could understand
them heading down hill but what pulled the others up? (Cars) The Chief and Winter Moon continued their
westward journey up hill towards their next destination.
Can you help Chief Shingas and Winter Moon? Can you find their destination?
Chief Shingas Chapter 2
Where in the Rocks is Chief Shingas?
Chapter 2
Chief Shingas Delaware Tribe
Chief Shingas was in the window of the McKees Rocks Fire Department
Our last episode brought Chief Shingas to Phil’s Archery on 713 Chartiers Avenue. Phil welcomed the Chief into
his shop but was taken aback by Winter Moon, his she-wolf companion. Knowing that she would return on
command, the Chief instructed Winter Moon to disappear. She took off towards the east. Phil was a little more at
ease. The Chief had never seen such a magnificent array of hunting equipment. Once Phil understood the Chief’
s particular needs he presented a hunting bow and a quiver of custom made arrows for the Chief.
Brandishing his new hunting gear, Chief Shingas turned towards the sunrise and made great strides towards the
Native American burial mound. Along the trail he encountered an enormous trading post.(Chartiers Crossing)
People wearing strange clothes, different from the garb worn by George Washington, were milling about in every
direction. Some of these people spoke of “men of fire”. Although this piqued his curiosity his immediate agenda
was to reclaim his beloved Winter Moon. He made his way back to the murky creek where he initially met with
George Washington. That was the fateful day when Chief Shingas popped a qwif of a quantum leap into the year
2009. Once he found the exact spot where George Washington faded away Chief Shingas whistled for Winter
Moon. The sky darkened and a lightning ball rolled through the sky. The Chief squinted his eyes hard until he
could make out a ghostly mirage of Winter Moon. The mirage became a form – then back to mirage – then Winter
Moon appeared in all her canine glory in response to her master’s command. He looked up and set eyes on the
Native American burial mound built in 250 B.C. by the Adena people. The Mound was only partially intact but still
recognizable in Chief Shingas’s eyes.
The Chief and Winter Moon, unified once again, were off to discover the “men of fire”. They followed a screaming
sound, not made by humans or animals and discovered enormous horseless wagons the color of fire.(fire truck)
This weeks winner is Linda Hippensteel. She wins a $25 Eat & Park Gift certificate compliments of McKees Rocks
VFD
Episode 3
Part 3
Our last episode brought Chief Shingas and Winter Moon to visit the men of fire at the McKees Rocks Boro Fire
Department. The muscular Chief fit right in with the broad-shouldered fire fighters. It was a very hot day in
McKees Rocks but why did the men of fire perpetually talk about things that were “cool”? One of the guys, Nick,
stretched the word out pronouncing it as
“co-o-o-o-l”. What was that all about? Chief Shingas spoke very fluent English and communicated extremely well
with George Washington. These men of fire talked funny even though they were speaking English.
Chief Shingas and Winter Moon needed a break. They searched for a shady place to stretch their weary legs.
Winter Moon led the Chief to a freshly hewn Black Cherry tree. Winter Moon recognized the scent on the
tomahawk next to it. It was the same tomahawk that Chief Shingas had given to George Washington the day of
that dreadful storm – the day the thin veil separating the year 1753 from the year 2009 thinned out, pulling Chief
Shingas and Winter Moon with a powerful, irresistible force into a realm where no man - or wolf - has ever gone
before. With an angry snort Chief Shingas attached his tomahawk to his belt with a cord of leather. The men of
fire could’ve used this. They aimed their hike west towards shade.
Chief Shingas discovered another curiosity . . . a set of 3 vertical “lights” is what Phil called them(traffic light). The
top light the color of fire - the bottom light the color of grass – the light in the center the color of the sun. The
Chief and Winter Moon froze in their tracks as he tried to make sense of these lights. The horseless carriages
“cars” as the men of fire called them – came to a sudden and abrupt halt when the top lights gleamed. The
gleaming bottom lights, sometimes an arrow, would cause the cars to move. The shining middle lights would make
the cars go very, very fast. They watched for a vastly long time trying to make sense of this new world. The Chief
stood as tall as his diminutive stature would allow holding a long leather cord tethered to Winter Moon. A herd of
people happened by. The Chief and Winter Moon remained motionless. One woman wore her papoose on her
back. Another papoose rode in a little wheeled carriage that his mother controlled from behind. The people
giggled and pointed to the weird and wonderful effigy before them. A man pulled a green piece of paper, the
length of his hand – from his pocket and placed it into the Chief’s hand (dollar bill). The others copied his
behavior. The chuckling people moved on to the trading post. The Chief examined these green papers and was
astonished to see an image of his old friend George Washington. He turned the paper over and noticed the
image of a teepee with a person’s eye centered on top, some silly markings and a Bald Eagle. He folded the
papers and tucked them into his leather pouch.
They threaded their way through the same passageway (railroad trestle) they discovered in an earlier episode.
The sides and the ground were made of solid seamless stonework. The Chief reminded himself that Phil (from
Phil’s Archery) explained the unusual picture writing is actually called a “mural” of a lighthouse beacon.
The two encountered a proud building (Post Office). Chief Shingas raised his eyes to see 2 pieces of decorated
fabric unfurl in the breeze (flags). One fabric was the color of an autumn sky and a Bald Eagle centered between
two black horses. The fabric above it looked vaguely familiar – almost like one carried by George Washington’s
men.
Winter Moon slowed her gait into a halt. Chief Shingas noticed her ears were pointed and alert, her tail wagged
quickly. He aimed his gaze towards hers to discover happy people feasting on something the color of milk with the
consistency of clay. The Chief watched children file their way to an opening where pretty woman named Tammy
politely cooed “May I help you?” The child gave the woman a green paper; the woman reciprocated with
sustenance (ice cream cone). The child giggled and offered her purchase to her dog. Chief Shingas and Winter
Moon waited patiently taking in the protocol. The Chief made his way to the opening with pretty young woman,
handed her a green paper and said “co-o-o-o-e-w-el blizzard”. The woman handed the Chief a coin (bearing
George Washington’s image) and 2 servings of something the color of milk with the consistency of clay.
Chief Shingas moved away from the opening and offered the smaller serving to Winter Moon. He smiled as he
lapped up his own.
Where are Chief Shingas and Winter Moon?
.They were at the Shake and Twist, formerly the Tastee Freeze. The winner this week was Jan Pfister!
Episode 4
Chief Shingas Delaware Tribe
Episode 4
After Chief Shingas and Winter Moon enjoyed their ice cream cones at the Twist & Shake, the chief decided that
the food in this dimension was really quite different than what he was used to…and boy did he like it!! He headed
back toward the Indian Mound, going through the great stone tunnel and passing the trading post (Chartiers
Crossing) where the people were carrying large sacks with all sorts of things the Chief didn’t recognize. He walked
along the rivers edge and saw the ducks. He remembered the ducks from another time and place and just being
by the river made him feel more at home. Winter moon ran up and down the bank as a large boat…so much
bigger than the canoes that they remembered…came down the river. It was the largest boat the Chief had ever
seen. He sat on the bank and watched as the boat headed down the river. After a while the Chief headed back
towards the Indian Mound. He climbed to the top and looked around….things were so different…where were the
woods and the Indian Village? And what were those big round things (Oil Tanks)on the side of the Mound? He
and Winter Moon headed down into the village below and followed along a large wall with holes(Road along the
Rox bridge). He saw another painting like the one he saw the first day he came to this dimension (the mural along
the wall of the Rox bridge). As he walked along, a large moving box (truck)came toward him and he moved quickly
to get out of the way. He touched his hatchet that hung on his belt…he debated about whether he should go
after it and attack…after a minute, he thought that probably wouldn’t be a good idea and besides, it moved so
fast, he couldn’t see it anymore…it was as if it had disappeared!(it had gone up the ramp) He walked towards the
area that the big moving box had come from. The sun was directly overhead and the Chief was thirsty. He saw
some men walking with something that looked like it held some liquid (bottle of water). One of the men was holding
some kind of food in his hand and as Chief Shingas looked on, the man began to eat the food.(Carol Ann's
breakfast sandwich - they're the best!) The Chief walked toward the place the men had come from. Other men
were going towards the same place and the Chief followed them in. Where is the Chief now?
The Chief and Winter Moon were at Carol Ann's Store in the Bottoms. This week's winner was Vickie Batcha.
Email your answer to mckeesrocksnews@yahoo.com.
For all the Chief's journeys through the Rocks, click the link below
Episode 5
Episode #5
Our last cliff-hanging episode brought the Chief and Winter Moon to the famous Carol Ann’s Corner Store. A
friendly man named Jimmy greeted Chief Shingas in the Chief’s native language, “Hey!” and waved him over
towards himself. The Chief and Winter Moon sidled over towards the dining area and replied, “Hey!” Jimmy was
not taken aback by Chief Shingas, or by his clothing or Winter Moon. The Chief parked himself in a chair
opposite of Jimmy. A woman brandishing a writing implement and tablet sauntered by. “What’ll it be, Chief?” she
asked. Chief Shingas gave her a quizzical look. Jimmy chimed in “A breakfast sandwich and a cup of coffee
would be cool, Lo-ee”. Chief Shingas was really in the mood for something hot but trusted Jimmy’s judgment.
While waiting for their food Jimmy filled the Chief in on some of the local language. Before long all the men and
women at Carol Ann’s echoed the Chief’s shouts “Go Stillers!” and “Hey yinz guys!” Lo-ee returned with a tray full
of food and a pot of coffee for the guys. She presented a very special treat to Winter Moon. The Chief drained
his cup and taught the locals the Delaware words “millee-KOP-ee” for “Give me coffee,” and “Mit-SEET-um” for
“Let’s eat!”
Chief really enjoyed the breakfast sandwich – and to his surprise, it was hot. The bread tasted much differently
from what he was used to. In his dimension the Delaware women made bread by roasting bitter acorns, and
crushing them in a wooden mortar. They would rinse them in hot water, then pound them into flour to make bread.
Jimmy, Chief Shingas and Winter Moon made fast friends. Jimmy talked about his world and asked the Chief
many, many questions about his. After several pots of Carol Ann’s award-winning coffee they headed back to the
Indian Mound.
Jimmy knew everything there was to know about the village called McKees Rocks and generously shared his
stories with the Chief. Jimmy expressed a sadness that most of the Indian Mound has been excavated and that
only remnants of the original burial mound remain. They talked and talked well into the night. When they looked
up to the sky the Chief pointed to a brilliant star. Jimmy told him it’s called “Jupiter”. All too soon it was time for
Jimmy to head on home.
Chief Shingas and Winter Moon dozed by the mound until dawn. As the sun rose he gazed into the east to see a
sky adorned with a labyrinth of colorful ribbons.
He thought about the Great Spirit or Great Manito who was present in all living things. Chief Shingas felt closer to
the lesser spirits, or Manitowuk, which were found in nature and held a deep reverence for his natural
environment. He wanted to give something back to Manitowuk to show thanks for the wonderful breakfast
sandwich and his new friend Jimmy. The Delaware people regarded tobacco as a sacred plant and grew it for
both ceremonial and personal use. He needed to acquire some tobacco to give back to the earth.
Chief Shingas and Winter Moon walked along the river. A Great Blue Heron and some Canada Geese were
hanging out. Cormorants stretched their wings for the sun to dry them out. Suddenly they heard the sound of a
mighty wind – maybe a tornado heading towards them. They leaped down behind the riverbank and peered
upwards to see an astonishing sight. Boxes on wheels – many of them tethered together - roared past them at an
incredible speed.(Train) Why must everything in this dimension be so fast? How he longed for the simplicity of his
life.
Finally the noisy boxes disappeared around the bend. The Chief dusted himself off and reassured Winter Moon
that they were safe. As they continued along the river the Chief smelled smoke – tobacco smoke. They
encountered a man who was smoking. Chief Shingas pointed to the man’s pipe and said “Ho-BO-ken”, the
Delaware word for “pipe tobacco”. The man replied “Yo, Dude!” Chief pointed towards himself and replied “me
not Yo Dude. Me Chief Shingas! Need ho-BO-ken to give to Manitowuk. I will trade cash.” The pipe smoker
nodded his head towards a place where Chief Shingas could trade cash for ho-BO-ken – a large stone structure
set apart from the rest (Rite Aid).
Where did Chief Shingas find his pipe tobacco? Look for his picture...you'll see him..
He was at Rite Aid.
This weeks winner was Jan Pfister.
Episode 6
Episode #6
Our last episode brought Chief Shingas to Rite Aid Pharmacy located in Chartiers Crossing where he acquired his
tobacco. The Chief placed it into his leather pouch to keep it safe.
Why was this tobacco so crucial to the Chief?
The Delaware Tribe believed that tobacco was sacred and must be treated with respect. Tobacco smoke was
frequently used as an offering to the spirits. His intent was to build a holy fire and toss his tobacco onto it. The
tobacco smoke would serve as an offering to the spirits.
According to Delaware tradition, the Creator had helpers to do various jobs. The most popular helper was
Mesingw. His job was to protect the animals, but he also had to see that man had enough to eat. Mesingw would
tell the animals that some of them would have to sacrifice their lives to feed man, but after death they would be
born again and be even more beautiful. He ordered man never to kill more animals than were needed to feed
their family. Before killing an animal, man must ask its permission.
Chief Shingas’s thoughts went back to Carol Ann’s Corner Store where he filled up on the yummy breakfast
sandwiches. He regretted that he was unable to seek permission from the animal that gave its life for the cool
(but actually hot) sandwiches. Even though the Chief was in his own realm in the year 1753 when the animal was
slain, he must somehow make amends for this horrendous oversight. Traditional Mesingw law states that tobacco
must be offered at the site of the kill to be sure the animal's spirit is released. Since nobody really knew where
this animal was slain, Chief Shingas must discover a holy place for his sacrificial fire.
As Chief Shingas left the Rite Aid he caught a glimpse of his reflection. He looked all wrong. His appearance was
not appropriate to conduct a sacred ritual. He needed adornments. He headed west. He and Winter Moon
paused when they reached the now familiar passageway painted with a lighthouse beacon (RR underpass).
Winter Moon stood quietly as the Chief eyed the mural. The Delaware men painted their faces with different
colors and designs for different occasions. He needed paint – paint and quills from “kawiya”, the Delaware word
for porcupine. He asked Mesingw for help. Just as he looked up towards the heavens an arrow, the color of
grass, lit up. Although it was only the traffic light Chief Shingas interpreted the green arrow as a sign from
Mesingw and thanked him.
They followed the direction of the arrow (Island Ave). Winter Moon lifted her nose towards the sky to take in the
scents. Aromas of succulent food flanked them from both sides of their path.(Doughboys, Pierogies Plus, Mama
Mias) Chief made a mental note to stop along this route very soon, but not today.
Before long they encountered young people. Chief Shingas deduced that they must be warriors. Their heads
were completely shaved except for a row in the middle from forehead to nape –similar to the young Delaware
warriors. “Hey yinz guys!” hailed the Chief. “Yo Dude,” replied the warriors. The Chief pointed to an image on
one warrior’s neck and exclaimed “Elahkënasu!” the Delaware term meaning “he is painted”. “Where can I get
paint and quills from kawiya? The young warrior offered a polite nod, cocked his thumb and pointed behind
himself.
Where did the young warrior send Chief Shingas and Winter Moon?
The Chief and Winter Moon were at Island Ave Tattoo!
The winner was Jan Pfister and she won a $50 Certificate to Island Ave Tattoo
Click below for info on Island Avenue Tattoo
http://www.islandavetattooco.com/
Episode 7
Episode #7
Our last spine-tingling episode brought Chief Shingas and Winter Moon to Island Avenue Tattoos. Men from the
Delaware Tribe often wore tattoos of animal designs. Jim, the tattoo artist, fashioned a remarkable likeness of
Winter Moon on the Chief’s upper arm using a noisy apparatus made from white man’s magic. He wore gloves
over his hands as he worked. They were not the ornate leather gloves the Chief’s people used. Jim’s gloves
were made from an animal the Chief never heard of before. Jim called them “latex”. Chief Shingas looked around
the shop and set his eyes upon the longest porcupine quills he’d ever seen. He told Jim about how his people
would use pieces of bone or porcupine quills to etch their tattoos and how the women used the quills to decorate
clothing made from deerskins. Jim replied that the quills in his shop came not from an American Porcupine, but
another species, the African Porcupine, that lives on the other side of the great ocean. The artist worked quickly
and flawlessly. Soon they bid each other farewell.
Chief Shingas decided that he and Winter Moon should head back to the Indian Mound to re-group. They
overheard somebody say that the McKees Rocks Bridge was closed for repair. How would they get to the
Mound? He paused to collect his sense of direction when a familiar voice called out to him. It was Nick, the Man
of Fire. Winter Moon wagged her tail in recognition. Nick was driving his own box on wheels – his “car” is what he
called it. He stopped and flung the door open. “Need a lift, Chief?” The Chief had seen these cars before – lots
of them – but never traveled in one. He entered the vehicle with just a little apprehension and sat next to Nick;
Winter Moon bounded joyfully into the back. The Chief began to relax once Nick put his car into gear and drove
slowly towards the Mound.
The Chief proudly showed Nick his new tattoo and his pouch of sacred tobacco telling him about the preparations
for his upcoming ceremony. He asked Nick where he could locate a “pochenikan”(drum) a sacred apparatus that
was absolutely crucial for his ceremony. Not knowing the English word for it, the Chief mimed “pochenikan”. Nick
instantly understood and gave the Chief a specific location.
They reached the Mound much faster than the Chief had ever traveled before. Nick said they traveled at 25 miles
per hour! What is a mile?
Nick stopped the car and opened the door so that the Chief and the wolf could continue on their journey. Winter
Moon’s ears perked up as she heard the sound of the ducks splashing in the river. She bounded into the
malodorous brine with reckless abandon sending the Mallards and Black Ducks into a frenzied flight. She
returned to the Chief holding a feather between her teeth. Feathers carry a highly religious meaning in the
Delaware tribe. The Chief needed this one for his religious ceremony. He thanked his wolf for bringing it to him
and carefully placed it into his pouch with the pipe tobacco. Winter Moon shook the river water away from her fur,
but the smell remained. Chief Shingas ordered her to sleep a short distance away from himself. He gazed into
the stars and located the reddish tint of Mars before drifting off to sleep.
They awakened to see a glorious sunrise. They shuffled through the fallen leaves and wondered why there
weren’t any chestnut leaves. It was Indian Summer – the warm weather that follows the first hard frost. Why is the
white man so obsessed with the term “Indian”? The two of them headed down into the village below and followed
along the large wall with holes(McKees Rocks Bridge wall). They passed the enormous wall painting (mural on
the bridge) and continued on to the trading post (Chartiers Crossing). Again..a wall with a hole!(Roxian Theater)
They encountered a landmark, the “tankhannen” that Nick instructed the Chief about.(Chartiers Creek) They
traipsed along the “tankhannen” until they reached their next destination.
Where are Chief Shingas and Winter Moon now?
They were at Hollowood's Music Store to buy a drum for his ceremony.
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Episode #8
Our last chilling episode brought Chief Shingas and Winter Moon to Hollowood Music And Sound. Jim Hollowood
listened attentively as the Chief explained his need for a drum. The drum used by the Delaware tribe in 1780 was
a thin deer-skin stretched across a barrel. He explained to Jim that the Delaware ceremony is a sacred event not
to be taken lightly. The Chief had already acquired his blessed pipe tobacco thanks to Rite Aid; and ritualistic
tattoos, thanks to Island Avenue Tattoos.
Chief Shingas’s thoughts went back to Carol Ann’s Corner Store where he enjoyed the breakfast sandwiches. He
regretted that he was unable to seek permission from the animal that gave its life for the sandwiches. His intent
was to build a holy fire and toss his tobacco onto it as an offering to the spirits. Mesingw would then release the
animal's spirit so it could be born again.
The Chief chose a drum that was most appropriate for his ceremony. Jim recommended that he hold onto it until
the Chief could build an appropriate dwelling.
Winter Moon led the empty-handed Chief back to the Indian Mound to regroup. They hung out for a while and
tried to relax under the full moon when suddenly they encountered what they thought was a lightening bolt – or
maybe a floating ball - never imagining that this quantum wave collapse was actually “popping a qwiff” . . . the first
step to taking a quantum leap.
Editor’s Note: In McKees Rocks-eeze “popping a qwiff” is just like entering the time machine invented by the be-
spectacled pooch Mr. Peabody and his pet boy Sherman.
The sky blackened as the lightning ball sped off. Buckets of rain plunged to the earth. The flimsy veil separating
the year 1753 from the year 2009 thinned itself out. The Chief was astonished to see his old friend George
Washington slowly appear into a ghostly form, then fade out again and then return thoroughly developed in
human form. They greeted each other enthusiastically. They skipped stones across the river as Chief Shingas
told George Washington about his adventures into the year 2009 and how he first visited Phil’s Archery. The men
clad in 1753 attire vied for the longest toss and the highest number of skips. After they tested stones of various
sizes and shapes Chief Shingas reached into his pouch for the coins he acquired from the Tastee Freeze. He
tossed one himself and handed the other to the General. General Washington examined it carefully taking in the
likeness of himself. He frowned and snorted, “This doesn’t look like me at all!” and angrily hurled the coin to the
opposite side of the river. Just as the coin hit the riverbank General Washington catapulted himself back into his
own realm.
Chief Shingas was tired of getting caught in the rain and decided to construct a dwelling just big enough for
himself, Winter Moon and his ceremonial paraphernalia. He built an oval shaped framework of fallen trees and
covered it with large sheets of bark. Normally a bedding of White Pine needles covered the floor. What
happened to all the White Pine trees? He could only find pine trees that shed shorter sharper needles. He
spread a layer of the shorter pine needles on the ground to absorb moisture; he then wove bedding from reeds
that grew along the river.
As he and Winter Moon relaxed in their shelter, Mesingw reminded Chief Shingas of his mission. . . his sacred
ceremony. The Chief needed to acquire Gentgeen. The two departed from their cozy dwelling at sunrise heading
down into the village below(Bottoms). They learned how to travel invisibly so they wouldn’t attract a crowd of
spectators. They followed along the large wall with holes(Agnes Street). They passed the enormous wall painting
(Bridge) and continued on through the trading post(Chartiers Crossing). Winter Moon indicated that they should
pause when they reached an octagon symbol the color of fire(Traffic light). The Chief looked into the clouds for a
sign. The sun raking through the clouds in long thin rays looked like Mesingw’s eyelashes. Chief Shingas
lowered his eyes just a tad and saw an arrow, the color of grass, light up. Although it was only the traffic light
Chief Shingas interpreted the green arrow as a sign from Mesingw and thanked him. They followed the arrow
onto a familiar path flanked on either side with large stone dwellings(Chartiers Avenue). They soon reached their
destination . . . this time they didn’t need to go as far as the lighthouse mural.
Where did Chief Shingas and Winter Moon acquire Gentgeen?
Chief Shingas and Winter Moon went to the Father Ryan Art Center for dancers for the ceremony. The winner
was David Mulvihill.ple Content: Please login and update it!
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Episode #9
Our last stormy episode brought Chief Shingas and Winter Moon to the Father Ryan Art Center. They made
themselves visible once again. Father Ryan welcomed them with a warm handshake and gathered dancers for
their Holy Ceremony. He gave them a tour of the Center, the theatre, and Sandy’s Cafe. The three of them went
down a hallway where they encountered a very tiny room. The Priest smiled and motioned for them to enter.
Once inside Winter Moon curiously sniffed a bright orb causing the doors to close by themselves. The tiny room
propelled them into an upper dimension of the Center. Father Ryan motioned for them out of the tiny room
leading them to an arts and crafts room where The Chief discovered a wooden mask of Mesingw. Half of the face
was painted red, the other half black – a fundamental piece for Delaware Tribe ceremonies. In the Chief’s own
realm people wore a necklace with a stone face of Mesingw for luck. Mesingw could grant any wish.
Chief Shingas carried the mask of Mesingw to the Indian Mound with Winter Moon and the dancers in tow.
The biggest spiritual celebration of the Delaware Tribe Feast of Dreams takes place during the Winter Solstice on
December 21. In ancient times they carried out a 12-day ritual reenactment of the trek taken by Sky Bear – what
we know as Ursa Major or The Big Dipper.
Chief Shingas lit his Holy Fire Circle within a ring of stones that he put together. Tobacco was important to the
Delaware Tribe. Both the tobacco and the pipes for smoking it were thought to be sacred. They were treated
with respect and used according to the proper rituals. Chief Shingas tossed his pipe tobacco onto the fire to
initiate the Ceremony.
The Holy Fire attracted much attention. First the Men of Fire arrived on their red horseless carriage; siren
screaming the entire way. The commotion attracted Jimmy Hollowood’s attention. He tore out of his music store
so fast that he still carried the drum he was playing for some browsing musicians. The browsing musicians raced
after him while continuing to hold various woodwind and percussion instruments.
The Chief was grateful for the arrival of the drum, dancers, percussionists and especially to the Men of Fire for
drawing such an enormous crowd to the Ceremony. Once he began beating the drum the browsing musicians
chimed in and the others began their stomp dance around the Holy Fire Circle. The dancers performed in a
counter-clockwise manner. Every culture since time immemorial has celebrated life and the body with dance. All
people carry the memory of dance in their blood and bones and the dancers soon began to move with the rhythm
of the chant. The Chief led the song alternating each phrase with the chorus. Then they sang songs in unison
after the Chief lined out the beginning phrase of the song.
The songs were short, while performances were long, with many cyclical repetitions.
The Delaware Tribe Feast of Dreams dance continued throughout the night until dawn of the next day. Although
the dance is not meant to be a grueling and physically challenging event, almost every participant danced well
into the morning.
The ado attracted people within walking distance of the Indian Mound. An inquisitive family whose backyard abuts
the Mound joined in the festivities. They were tremendously impressed with the religious symbolism and the
camaraderie exhibited by the participants who re-enacted the Delaware Winter Solstice. The wind blew a bone-
chilling breeze across the river; a breeze that took residence on the riverbank and within the breath of all those
who gathered there. The inquisitive family peeked into Chief Shingas’s dwelling – an oval shaped framework of
fallen trees and covered with large sheets of bark. They couldn’t let this powerful Chief and his wolf Winter Moon
– these icons from generations past - spend the winter in such a drafty dwelling, especially with Christmas right
around the corner. They decided unquestionably that Chief Shingas and Winter Moon were to reside with them
until the weather gets a little better. Since he will be spending Christmas with Joni and Rich (and learning about
Serbian customs) he won’t be traveling about until after the new year. When 2010 begins, he will be wandering
the Rocks again and the game will continue…..
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Episode #10 Happy New Year!
Our last sizzling episode brought Chief Shingas back to the Indian Mound where he led the folks of McKees Rocks
in his Holy Ceremony. Joni and Rich invited the Chief and Winter Moon to be their houseguests for the Christmas
Holiday Season. The Chief insisted that he bring his blanket of animal fur even though Joni assured him that she
had plenty of bedding. When Rich unlocked his front door a delicate aroma of food spilled out and filled the air.
They entered the kitchen and felt the heat radiating throughout the house. The Chief did not see a fire. Where
was their fire? How did Joni cook and how did Rich warm their house without a fire?
Winter Moon howled as she noticed the housecats. Willow and Buffy hissed then raced up the draperies for
shelter. The Chief yanked the manner-less she-wolf outside to the back porch to settle her. Everything was
every bit as strange to Winter Moon as it was to the Chief. Rich joined them with a plate of hot food for the Wolf
and invited the Chief back inside for their feast.
The Serbian customs reminded Chief Shingas of those customs of the Delaware Tribe’s – food, drink, music,
singing and dancing followed by more of the same. The Serbian food gave off flavors and varieties, spices and
sauces, sugars and delicacies all new to the Chief. Their drinks . . . some were bubbly and sweet while others
were dry and tart. The music came not from drums, reeds and percussion, but from a box that Rich needed to
adjust from time to time. Overwhelmed with all the newness of this Christmas Eve celebration The Chief gathered
up his animal skin blanket, a glass of his dry and tart drink, and headed for the porch where he slept quite
soundly next to Winter Moon.
When the eastern sun rose Joni greeted the Chief with a hot cup of coffee. She invited him into the house and
began to whip up hot breakfast for everybody. Rich excitedly told the Chief about a popular American game
called “football”. The Chief replied “Go Stillers!” After breakfast everybody bundled up and sauntered over to
Ranger Field where the Chief demonstrated “Pahsaheman”, the Delaware Tribe’s version of football. The game
began when Chief Shingas charged to the center of the field and hurled the ball straight up into the air. The
players jumped up and tried to knock it towards their own goal posts. Before long Ranger Field was teeming with
men and women of all ages.
According to Delaware tradition the teams were divided men against the women. The men may only kick the ball,
but the women may throw it or run with it. The men do not tackle the women, but the women may tackle or grab
the men as they please. Their goalposts are tall poles that rise at either end of the field but lack a crosspiece.
The Serbian holiday continued for 12 days – much like the Delaware celebration of the Great Bear. Rich and Joni
celebrated another holiday unheard of by the Chief – New Years Eve - consisting of food, drink, music, singing,
dancing; once again followed by more of the same. This year was special. Rich and Joni referred to the New
Years Eve Full Moon as a “Blue Moon”. What is a Blue Moon?
According to Chuck Tague, Nature Observer News,
“A Blue Moon, or Betrayer Moon, is necessary to keep the lunar cycle aligned with the solar year, especially in
naming systems that link each Moon to events in nature, agriculture or religion. The Moon’s orbit of the Earth
takes about 27.32 days, or not quite a month. During the solar year there are 12 lunar cycles plus approximately
11 days. Every three years or so an extra Full Moon occurs that would have the Harvest Moon shine before the
crops are ready or place Passover, Easter or other spring celebrations weeks before the vernal equinox.” For
more information on this and other natural history, visit
http://web.me.com/kingrail/Natureobserver/Blog/Blog.html
The Delaware Tribe closely watched the phases of the moon. They considered the number twelve to be a sacred
number, possibly from the scales on the shell of the turtle. The turtle wears twelve marginal scales on each side
of the back, and twelve plus one on the top, which correspond with the 12 lunar cycles (or 13 lunar cycles in the
event of a Blue Moon) in a Delaware year. Chief Shingas concluded that Americans will celebrate just about
anything.
Chief Shingas and Winter Moon decided to go back to their dwelling near the Indian Mound. They were grateful
for their new friends’ hospitality but missed the wildness of their lives. They didn’t need food for a few days, but
once Chief Shingas became hungry he wanted something similar to Joni’s cooking. They needed to talk to Joni
and find out how to get the delicious and unusual food that she made. For the moment, though, they decided to
stay on the mound....so check back next week and see if they managed to find the food the Chief liked.
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Chief Shingas Delaware Tribe
Episode #11
Time After Time
Our last heart-warming episode brought Chief Shingas and Winter Moon back to the Indian Mound – the place
where they met with George Washington in the year 1753.
Chief Shingas and Winter Moon watched the shards of sunlight rake through the clouds. Chief Shingas
wondered, “Where did we come from . . . and where are we going?”
He discussed this question at length with the friends he met in the year 2009. Since the beginning of time, this
question has loomed over people from the greatest priests and astronomers to the lowliest shepherds and
astrologers. Buddhists conflict with Islamists. Evolutionists war with creationists. Fundamentalist Christians
campaign with Catholics. Who’s right?
The Chief was contemplating everything and nothing. He watched Winter Moon as she stared towards the
horizon carrying the wisdom of the ages in her eyes. What was going on in her mind? Suddenly she catapulted
herself from her perch and hurled herself to the riverbank howling with the ferocity of a mother wolf protecting her
young. The Chief stood up to see what the commotion was about. He aimed his gaze towards the direction of
Winter Moon’s concern. The interloper, a Gray Squirrel, was the recipient of Winter Moon’s admonishment. He
lured Winter Moon back and settled her down. She laid next to him with her head on his lap, content that she
protected her home and her person from the evil squirrel. The Chief stroked her head. Winter Moon sat up and
stretched as the Chief thought, “My wolf and I and nothing else: we live for the moment”.
Eventually boredom crept into their Zen and Winter Moon began to complain. Chief Shingas got up and the two
began to mosey. She danced and pranced, sniffed and whiffed, marked and barked. She pointed her nose
towards the river where a flock of Ring-billed Gulls hung out. She tracked an Eastern Cottontail, lost its scent but
then discovered some White-tailed Deer scat. What a day! What a day!
They headed back to the Mound where Winter Moon entered their dwelling. She’s a little too quiet. Chief
Shingas checked her to discover that she found a frozen hambone that Joni had given to her. Yippee! She rolled
on it then tossed it into the air in pure delight. She ran from the dwelling to the mound with it before her final
retreat into the dwelling where she buried it in the Chief’s bedding. What jubilation!
She joined the Chief as he continued his thoughts. Where do we go from here? Is an angelic heaven in the stars
for him? Would he remain on this earth and in this realm to suffer tribulation after a Pentecostal Rapture? Maybe
he’ll reincarnate into a female sea turtle sentenced to spend the next 500 years swimming happily from one ocean
current to the next; deposit a few thousand eggs over the years for wide-eyed bushy-tailed environmentalists to
nurture and release back into the sea.
He considered the lessons he learned from the White Man and the ancient traditions that he taught them. He
ruminated about his adventures in McKees Rocks; and about how he gathered sacred artifacts, singers and
dancers to perform his Holy Ceremony.
He looked at his tattoo of Winter Moon and pulled his she-wolf close to his heart. He asked the Creator, “Where
did we come from . . . and where are we going? Does it really matter?” The clouds parted allowing the sun to
shine on Chief Shingas and Winter Moon. They closed their eyes. They gently drifted back into their realm in the
year 1753 with a whisper, “Go Stillers” on the lips of Chief Shingas.
The game is on hold for now. Prizes have been awarded to the first persons who came up with the various
McKees Rocks locations. All correct entries are now eligible for a grand prize raffle. The grand prize is $100 and
was generously donated by Representative Nick Kotik. We will post the winner very soon.
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