A celebration of life memorial service for musician Mike Serna, who died Nov. 3, will be held Saturday, Nov. 30, at the Cherokee Removal Memorial Park, 6800 Blythe Ferry Landing in Birchwood.
A Mescalero Apache-Gabrieleno Indian, Serna was an accomplished flutist, flute maker, songwriter, educator, dancer and poet. He won the 2006 Musical Echoes Flute Competition and had released several CDs, including 2009's "Warrior's Last Breath," which was nominated for a Native American Music Award. He had played at Riverbend, Nightfall, Culturefest and other events over the years.
A native drum and honor guard will be present to open the activities, to be followed by musical performances from Gareth Laffely, Duane Deemer, Sayota Knight, Cody Blackbird, J.D. Edge, Dana Rogers, Perry Joe Gabbard and Ace Bailey. Nikki Briggs will perform a Jingle Dance. Other musicians and dancers are welcome to take part in the service. Owners of Serna-made flutes are asked to bring their instruments for photos.
The Native American Indian Association of Tennessee will dedicate a red dogwood tree, to be planted at the park.
"This will not be a somber, sad day - rather a true celebration of life of a man who has contributed much to the Chattanooga area and the Native American community as well," says Serna's wife, Judy.
Events will take place from noon to 5 p.m. Those attending are asked to bring a covered-dish dinner to share.
For more information, call Judy Serna at 423-322-5632.