In the old days (well about 7-9 years ago), Siksika used to have an old school arbour for our pow wow (Siksika Fair---it's 2nd weekend in August. BE THERE!)---you know, the kind which was big, made of wood, had wooden bleachers for kids to climb and fall off of. It was cool. And Skins from all over the country would come to our pow wow.
Then we got a new facility. This one is bold, new, and pretty cool. When coming up with a name for this arbor, many entries were submitted, but my late grandfather's uncle's name was chosen: PIIKSA-PI. It means "Sacred Visionary" in our language. His "other name" is Gordon Yellowfly. He was killed in action in Italy during WWII. He was a sniper, and he is a hero. He was honored by naming our new arbor after him. I still plan on trekking to Italy to visit his resting place.
The arbour named in his honor is an architectural wonder. When one looks at it, it's obvious what it is: a tipi. There is a skylight at the very top for sunlight to beam down. Inside, the bleachers circle the base of the tipi (sort of like traditional back rests in a real tipi). On the center of the floor the Siksika insignia is on the floor (looks freakin' cool). The bleachers are nice, and one can generally find a good seat. There are showers, restrooms, and kitchens located inside as well.
My only gripes are that the acoustics are pretty bad. It's hard to hear the MC during a pow wow. And if you're a dancer, it's hard to hear the singers when their belting out a kick-a$$ song. I've danced here (I dance Grass), and I was able to manage, but I'm pretty sure I messed up that last step (I'll blame the acoustics). A few years ago, they installed some canvas banners inside to help dampen out the sound waves. It helped a little, but I think an acoustic engineer still needs to make a visit and tweak things up a bit.
The other gripe, this arbour is smaller. When 15-20+ drums are out there and everyone with their lawn chairs are on the floor, it leaves a pretty small area for the dancers. I dont' know, I guess it's cozy.
But I digress. I've had some good times here. We've had some of the best singers here (Northern Cree, Blackfoot Crossing (of course), Blackstone, Blacklodge, Battle River). And we also get some awesome dancers as well.
During our Fair, the arbour is also surrounded by a ring of tipis, and other campers. And then there is also the hand game area. These people rock out for hours and do their own thing. I like coming out here to listen to the songs, watch the hand gamers, and visit.
Blogged last year's pow wow here: http://siksika-scottish.blogspot.com/2008/08/siksika-fair.html
Man, I wish I could make it to the Fair next month!! read more