Letter: Powwow committee grateful for donations

The Northern Ute Tribe recently gave Smoking River Pow Wow a buffalo for a traditional feast to be held Saturday, Sept. 26 at Ute Park. The tribe also donated $2,000 for a hand game contest.
Contributions from the Meeker community return this goodwill.
To date, the Town of Meeker and the Northern Ute Tribe, the Rio Blanco Lodging Tax Board, Colorado Council on the Arts, EnCana, Williams and the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe have each pledged $1,000 or more to the event. Redi Services, R&T Oilfield Services, White River Electric Association and Ducey’s Electric have made generous contributions of time and services. Many individuals and businesses are sponsoring dances and advertising in the event program.
Traditional powwows are “giveaways,” where families or organizations honor veterans, celebrate births and remember loved ones. Powwow hosts might provide food and shelter for guests to honor those who have passed, or to celebrate a homecoming. Many give blankets as symbols of warmth and protection.
In keeping with tradition, Smoking River Pow Wow will not charge admission for the powwow or the buffalo feast.
The powwow is funded with grants, contributions and sponsorships. It is “free” to all who attend, but it is not without considerable expense and effort.
Thanks to all who make Smoking River Pow Wow possible.
Organizers of Smoking
River Pow Wow