who are we?

My Apache name is Dide Yooł Kai ii.  I served in the military as a Marine and I am a co-owner of L Designs, Etc. Growing up in the Apache community I've learned from my parents, extended family and the elders of the Jicarilla Apache Culture Committee.   I've served as a Baalooma (Leader) of the Ollero (White) Clan for Go-jii-ya and as an active participant in Bear Dance ceremonies. Beyond my cultural commitments, I've worked as a farrier and rancher, supporting my ex-wife's cattle-raising efforts. I also worked as a Heritage Specialist for the Jicarilla Apache Cultural Affairs where learned from the elders of both the Red and White Clans. Today, I am respected as an elder, speaker, storyteller, consultant, guardian of traditional Jicarilla Apache knowledge, essential insights into the "Lifeways of the Jicarilla Apache." "I stand for keeping the culture at all costs because I made a promise to my mother not to die with my knowledge."