Logo contest to draw from the strength of family unity

Julie Severn

12/17/2002 12:00:00 AM

Powwow committee officials are conducting a logo contest to represent this year's theme of bringing families together.

"Honoring Nindawemaaganidog (All My Relations)" is the theme of the 19th Annual Little Elk's Retreat Powwow slated for Aug. 1-3 at the Saginaw Chippewa Campgrounds.

Native American artists interested in entering the contest must be at least 15-years-old and submit their artwork by Jan. 17.

"Mainly we're looking for a composition that is family oriented," explained Mary Perez, powwow committee chairperson.

The design is limited to four colors for printing purposes and the winner will receive $300, Perez added.

The powwow theme was inspired from prayer, according to Perez.

"A lot of ceremonies from our spiritual leaders begin with a prayer that starts out by honoring our Elders and relatives," she said. "Family is so much a part of who we are."

Women's Circle participant Mary Lynn added, "We start out with that respectful prayer to honor all our relations of the past, present and those to come."

The committee's goal is to bring more families together while promoting well-being during the event, she explained.

"We also want to use this time to raise awareness about substance abuse, child abuse and neglect," she stated.

Although the powwow follows a competitive format, Perez is tentatively planning to have traditional speakers at the event.

"Through our speakers we want to provide a good source of strength that encourages healthy lifestyles, which in turn provides a safe and nurturing environment to raise our children," she added.

Mystic River, of Mashantucket, Conn., is expected to be host drum for the event and co-host is Snake Island from Sarnia, Ontario, Canada. Also on the tentative schedule is Jason Kingbird for drum judge, Vince Beyl as master of ceremonies, Ron Goodeagle Sr. to serve as arena director and Donny Dowd to be the head veteran dancer. Male and female head dancers will be selected and paid daily during the powwow.

For more information, contact Perez at (989) 773-4791 or (989) 775-4072, Steve Pego at (989) 775-4106, or visit the webpage at www.sagchip.org. Logo designs may be submitted to: Little Elk's Retreat Powwow, 7500 Soaring Eagle Blvd, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858.