CLARKS SUMMIT — On July 15, children and adults were treated to a free Native American Pow Wow in the parking lot of the Abington Community Library.
The Pow Wow was co-sponsored by the library, Abington Heights Civic League, and The Belize Fund & The Portal Institute Inc., and ties in with the library’s “Heroes” summer reading theme.
Members of the intertribal Red Storm Drum & Dance Troupe entertained the crowd with drumming, song and women’s and men’s traditional dances and invited children and adults to participate in the Crowhop and round dance. An authentic teepee set-up was the backdrop and The Manning’s Mobile Ice Cream Truck was also nearby in the parking lot in case anyone wanted a sweet treat during the pow wow.
Troupe member, Jerry Greyhawk said he has been involved in pow wows with this group for approximately 13 years and said, “It always seems like the first time every time.” The troupe performs together on a regular basis.
“We all work together and it’s good to see an intertribal group from different nations get together and share with each other,” he said.
He explained the events teach awareness of Native Americans. “Many children don’t get real education of native culture until they get into college and it gives them a head start through the hands on things we do and lets us be approachable to them. We love our culture and we love to share it.”
Meanwhile, inside the library, illustrator Erwin Printup signed copies of “Giving Thanks,” a children’s book he illustrated and children had an opportunity to enjoy crafts and face painting.
A collection of non-perishable food items to benefit the Onondaga Nation was also underway. The food drive will continue throughout July.