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UNBC hosting powwow |
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Written by BERNICE TRICK
Citizen staff
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Monday, 19 May 2008 |
More than 2,000 people are expected to attend the Education-For-Freedom Pow Wow being held at UNBC this week.
It's part of the North American circuit of powwows, which focus on competitive aboriginal dancing and drumming, said Fabian Sparvier, Saik'uz First Nations Band education co-ordinator.
The powwow, sponsored by the UNBC First Nations Centre and the Lheidli T’enneh First Nation, will feature about 300 dancers and drummers from as far away as New Mexico, said Sparvier.
The powwow takes place Friday through Sunday at the UNBC Northern Sport Centre.
"The highlight will be the grand entry of all dancers from elders to children at 8 p.m. May 23 with all the colourful traditional regalia, music, red-serged RCMP, flags and music," Sparvier said.
During the grand entry event, veterans and First Nations studies alumni will be honoured and dignitaries recognized. Doors open at 4 p.m.
Competitions will be held during the following two days in many age categories with cash prizes ranging up to $1,000 in dancing and up to $5,000 in drumming.
"The powwow is also a time of gathering, honouring and celebrating," said Sparvier.
Emcee for the event is Eugene Cardinal of Kehewin, Alta., headman dancer is Alden Pompana of Sioux Valley, MB., and headwoman dancer is Tracy Peters of Prince George.
On site will be traditional aboriginal food like bannock and meat dishes as well as Indian tacos and Indian buffalo burgers.
UNBC will be opening its campus residences for accommodation. To reserve call 960-6435, fax 960- 6432 or Email:
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Admission to the powwow is $40 for a family weekend pass, $10 per day or $20 for an adult powwow pass, $7 per day or $15 for a youth pass (11 to 17 years) and $5 per day or $10 for a child pass. Seniors and small children six years and younger are free.
Organizers are seeking financial contributions from businesses, organizations and individuals to help cover the cost of the event. Contributors will be acknowledged throughout the May 23 to 25 event, in programs and on the web site. Contact Earl Lambert at 649-9189.
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Last Updated ( Monday, 19 May 2008 )
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