Culture at the Casino

We didn't know exactly what to expect from the Coeur d'Alene Tribe cultural program, which took the place of its usual two-day Julyamish powwow, held for several years at the Greyhound Park in Post Falls.

According to newspaper reports, the powwow was cancelled this year because of the Tribe's opposition to electronic instant racing betting machines  at the Greyhound Park. 

Last night's event turned out to be an abbreviated version held under a tent on the Coeur d'Alene Casino grounds.  Lasting about an hour, it featured dancing, singing, drumming and explanation of tribal traditions.  

My sisters and I drove 75 miles to Worley to watch the program.  Unfortunately, we arrived late enough that we stood outside the tent, unable to see most of the program due to poor lighting. 

Still, we enjoyed watching the crowd, listening to the segments and later meeting with a few tribal members, getting firsthand information about the intricate costuming worn by Native American dancers. 

A couple of us held up a dress used for jingle dancing, gaining an added appreciation for the athletic ability and endurance of jingle dancers.  That dress was very heavy. 

Earlier this year, several of our family members collaborated on and later won a substantial Panhandle Alliance for Education grant to fund a Native American cultural event for Sandpoint High School this fall. 

So, making connections with Tribal members last night was very helpful for program planning. 

My niece Laura, who works for the Coeur d'Alene Tribe, also took us on a tour of the casino where we admired several examples of intricate and beautiful beadwork, done by tribal members in times past and in recent years. 

We also enjoyed admiring the mini birch-bark canoes throughout the hotel, filled with colorful flower arrangements. 

Though the program wasn't quite what we expected, our overall experience was well worth the drive. Plus, I have a small jar of huckleberry jam, prepared by the tribe, on the counter downstairs. 

It turned out to be a fun way to spend a Saturday evening, and we're excited to learn that the powwow we love so much will return next year in the Worley area.

Happy Sunday.