And now:Ish <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> writes: Date: Wed, 15 Sep 1999 10:47:51 -0400 To: [EMAIL PROTECTED],[EMAIL PROTECTED] From: Lynne Moss-Sharman <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: Pow wow Calgary Sun information Mime-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Wednesday, September 15, 1999 Powwow preparation By JENNIFER ISAAC, Calgary Sun Powwow is a Narragansett word which originally meant "healer or priest." It was later adopted by Natives and non-natives as a general term that covered any gatherings, including feasts, giveaways, councils and conferences. Today, a powwow is a tribal dance celebrating important Native and non-native events. Larger powwows are part of rodeos, fairs, concerts, sports competitions and dancing. They are not closed religious ceremonies. They are community celebrations open to anyone to watch and participate. You'll find a unique, family-oriented cultural event of song, dance, food, arts and crafts. Most powwows are held during the summer but here are a few tips to brush up on for next season. Arena: The space where the performers dance. Also called "The Circle." Emcee: The master of ceremonies is responsible for the powwow. His job is to decide what dances or other activities are held and for how long. Head Staff: A group of four dancers including a head man, woman, boy and girl. The position is a show of respect. Grand Entry: Signals the start of the powwow and is used to bring in the dancers. It's led by a veteran colour guard who carries the flags. The head staff follows along with any princesses and all the dancers. They dance until all dancers are in the arena. Contest Dance: Held for specific dance categories, separated by age as well as style. Intertribal: Anyone can dance, even audience members. These popular dances are used to break up the competitions. Women should wear a shawl. When the emcee says "Intertribal. Everyone dance," you are invited. Round Dance: Also known as a Friendship Dance, this is the ultimate intertribal. The dance is an easy-to-learn sideways shuffle. "Let Us Consider The Human Brain As A Very Complex Photographic Plate" 1957 G.H. Estabrooks www.angelfire.com/mn/mcap/bc.html FOR K A R E N #01182 who died fighting 4/23/99 [EMAIL PROTECTED] www.aches-mc.org 807-622-5407