The Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians (GTB) is set to host its annual traditional powwow on August 15 and 16 at the Peshawbestown powwow grounds.
Grand entry on Saturday is at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m., and on Sunday at 1 p.m. Specials with money prizes for this year’s powwow include: street clothes specials; a hand drum special; potato dance; as well as spot dances.
A special community potluck powwow feast is also set on Saturday, Aug. 15 for the dinner break. Community members are encouraged to bring their feast bundle and a dish to pass, but it is not a requirement. The main dishes will be provided by the GTB agriculture and food sovereignty program, which will feature a selection of local foods like lake trout, rice, potatoes, and maple products, all funded by a USDA grant. The maple syrup used in the feast is from the GTB Sugar Bush Camp, and the tribe’s agriculture department will provide cooking instructions for all featured items.
Head staff for the powwow include emcees Francis Wanageshik and Michael Medawis, and Aaron Chivis will serve as the arena director. Invited drums include Dusty Bear, Red Willow, Mountain Town, and Under the Pines. The head veteran is Mikki Pino, and the head dancers are Desiree Schocko and James Broome, Jada Diaz and Kris Anderson, Dawn Shenoskey and Tom Shomin.
On Sunday, August 16, the Kchi Wiikwedong Anishinaabek Sobriety Walk will begin at 10 a.m. at the powwow grounds pavilion. The walk ends in the arena with a talking circle to show appreciation for what the walk is for, GTB programs that have helped with sobriety, and an opportunity for people to tell their stories.
