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Show CIMES November 23, 2005 Photos by Airman 1st Class Jenny Chong ^^Mm^:i^M Many forms of pottery were displayed and available for sale during the Powwow that was held on base Saturday. Many hear beat of Powwow tradition BY 75TH ABW PUBLIC AFFAIRS STAFF HillAFB More than 500 people gathered at the Old BX for a powwow that began in a time-honored, ceremonial fashion with the presentation of the colors followed by the powerful rhythmic beats of the drum circle while various dancers highlighted Native American symbolism and culture. The powwow, held Nov. 19, was hosted by members of the 75th Military Equal Opportunity office and the Hill AFB American Indian and Alaskan Native committee. Traditionally, powwows were a way for tribes to celebrate special ceremonies or seasonal events and were often opportunities for socialization between affiliated tribes, but were also held so that tribal leaders could negotiate business or details surrounding a marriage proposal. Today, powwows are still rooted in the past and most are conducted according to commonly accepted traditional protocol though there are some regional differences. Each tribe and some families have songs and dances that belong only to them. Great respect is accorded to the drum circle and the powwow arena while eagle feathers and the dancers who wear them are revered. John Bear, a native Ute, led the color guard. The color guard was comprised of military members of all different branches, both active and retired. A young boy in traditional clothing dances to the beat of the drums during a Powwow presentation. Several young • girls present a traditional dance that represents their tribal culture. L Horse hair pottery, a type of pottery whose process is both hazardous and time consuming, was featured at the powwow. The pots, which were made in Arizona and New Mexico, are all one-of-akind. |