People of all ethnic backgrounds are welcome to participate in the 16th annual Gathering of the Eagles Powwow in Hessel, free of charge, Friday, August 15, through Sunday, August 17, where more than 300 dancers, artists, and vendors are expected to celebrate Native American culture through spiritual rituals, dances, feasts, and the display and sale of authentic tribal goods.

Hosted by the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, the powwow holds to local traditions. Booths will be set in a circle near the corner of Three Mile Road and Old St. Ignace Road, next to the casino.

In keeping with history, the summer powwow will offer the opportunity to meet new people and renew connections with friends as the omnipresent beat of drums emanates from the powwow arena, representing the heartbeat of Mother Earth.

"Listen carefully to the master of ceremonies," said organizer Lana Causley.

Continuing a role he has served for many years, Stanley Spruce will emcee the event. His voice will be broadcast throughout the powwow, explaining events, announcing when photos may be taken, and detailing other features.

Through his guidance, you can learn a lot about what is going on, Mrs. Causley said.

"The unique thing about the Hessel powwow is that is it still traditional," she added. Local organizers have chosen not to hold a competition based powwow, which would offer a different focus and intensity.

The Gathering of the Eagles Powwow is designed to create the relaxed, festive atmosphere of a traditional powwow, she said. In the benign summer weather, the focus is on gathering elders and others to talk, eat, dance, and display regalia created throughout the winter, which is traditionally a time for storytelling, Mrs. Causley explained.

Upon arrival, participants will register as dancers or spectators and receive a button. Inside, booths set up by members of federally recognized tribes will sell a variety of art and food. All goods will be made by tribal members.

Participants will find beadwork, black-ash baskets, dream catchers, and many other items as well as aromas that have arisen from powwows for centuries, filling the air with the smell of white fish and fry bread.

Several events will take place Thursday and Friday, but the official beginning of the powwow is Saturday at 1 p.m. with the Grand Entry ceremony.

No photographs will be allowed at that time.

Participants will stand as songs honoring veterans are sung and tribal members enter with Anishnabe, American, and Canadian flags, as well as flags representing the four directions.

Several tribal members will come in carrying special staffs. One, promoting sobriety, will be adorned with many eagle feathers. Another will represent tribal members taken as prisoners of war. Others will represent area communities.

Following the Grand Entry, dancing will begin. Some dances will blend the general public and tribal members. Others will be "specials," including dances specifically conducted by tribal women in specific regalia, and dances by men, such as the Grass Dance, Mrs. Causley said.

Organizers expect a greater turnout than 2007.

"It grows every year," Mrs. Causley said.

No drugs, alcohol, or anyone under the influence will be allowed on the premises.

Free camping, first come, first served, will be available across the street from the casino at Kewadin Campground.

Events are as follows:

Thursday: Fire Lighting Ceremony. At approximately 7 a.m., fires to be maintained throughout the powwow will be lit at the Fire Lodge on site. The event is open to the public. The remainder of the day will include event preparations

Friday: Talking Circle. Friday will be a spiritual day. Also open to the public, participants will gather to talk at the Fire Lodge from approximately noon to 6 p.m. Potluck: The dinner will be at approximately 6 p.m. Open Drums and Dancing: Following the feast, an informal drumming and dancing session will be open to anyone who would like to take part. Most vendors are expected to be operating by this time.

Saturday: Sunrise Ceremony: The ceremony begins at the Fire Lodge, at approximately 7 a.m.

Grand Entry: At noon, the ceremony serves as the official beginning of the powwow. Dancing follows until about 5 p.m. Feast Dinner. This takes place at about 5 p.m. Second Grand Entry: The ceremony takes place at about 7 p.m. Retirement of Flags: All flags must be retired prior to sunset. The ceremony will take place between 8 p.m. and 9 p.m.

Sunday: Sunrise Ceremony. Prayers around the fires will begin at approximately 7 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. Final Grand Entry: The ceremony is at noon. Retirement of Flags. The powwow's closing ceremony will take place around 4 p.m. or 5 p.m.