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While we don't have medicine wheels here in the southwest, we do have a 
number of astronomical alignments, some being undisputed.  However, there is 
another issue to consider; some tribes feel that their stories are sacred 
and should not be retold or interpreted by those outside the tribe.  And as 
you've mentioned, if you now have different natives in your area that are 
not related to the medicine wheels, there will be different interpretations 
by each tribe. 

I would stick to the basic science behind rising and setting positions for 
the Sun, mention that the different stars also have special rising and 
setting positions that could be used as a calendar or for ritual 
significance, and consider hiring a local tribal storyteller to tell their 
own stories related to the skies. 

* * * * * * * * * * * 

Christine Shupla
Planetarium Director
Arizona Science Center
(602) 716-2078
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