Rare artifacts will be unveiled this month in a new exhibit documenting the culture and contributions of California's first people at the California Museum in Sacramento. A huge stuffed condor from the Smithsonian, Modoc chief Captain Jack's buckskin jacket and a cape and arrowhead that belonged to Ishi, reputedly the last Native American to live a primitive life in California, will be showcased in "California Indians: Making A Difference," which opens March 31. "We have some objects that have never been on exhibit before," said curator P. Christiaan Klieger, an anthropologist affiliated with the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco. "It's not your typical sort of basket exhib

Wednesday, Sept. 22 11:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. The California State Library begins American Library Association’s Banned Books Week with local celebrities reading excerpts from banned books at the Fragrance Garden. About 100 people are expected to attend. Thursday, Sept. 23 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. The State Indian Museum will celebrate Native American Day on the South Steps of the Capitol with music and dancers to honor the spirit and contributions of the state’s indigenous people. About 300 people are expected to attend. Friday, Sept. 24 11:30 a.m. - 1:15 p.m. Visitacion Valley Middle School students from San Francisco will be having lunch in Capitol Park. About 300 people are expected. Noon - 1

The  California State Indian Museum held it's 33rd annual Gathering of Honored Elders this past weekend. The event is devoted to honoring the Elders who keep the traditions, stories, languages, and culture alive for future generations. Musicians and dancers honored the spirit and contributions of the State’s indigenous people (see photos).   California Native vendors, community service groups, Indian dancers, as well as guest speakers participated also. The annual Gathering of Honored Elders is sponsored by the State Native American Liaisons of California. SacPress Photos | Kati Garner