Maple River Band of Ottawa's Homecoming Celebration

When: July 29th, 30th, and 31st 2005
Where: Devore Island in Lyons, Michigan

Events:

July 29, 2005

Camp Day: Open microphone, entertainment, native bands, hand drumming, and contemporary

July 30, 2005

6:00 am
Sun Rise Pipe Ceremony: drum and singers
Lighting of sacred fire
Flag Raising: Maple River Band of Ottawa Veterans and Lyons Veterans

10:00 am
Invocation: Blessing of the grounds, traditional and contemporary
Children's Activities: Held every 3 hours (3 legged race, pie eating contest, etc)

10:15 am
Honor Song: In recognition of this historic event

10:30 am
Introduction: Maple River Council
Introduction: Lyons Village Council
Introduction: Local Government

Noon Break

1:30 pm
Entertainment: Drumming and singing throughout the day

3:00 pm
Elders/Seniors Giveaway: Oldest person, traveled farthest, etc.

4:00 pm
Open Dance: All invited to dance non regalia

Evening Break

6:30 pm
Retreat of Colors: All flags lowered

7:00 pm
Entertainment: Drumming and singing throughout the day

8:00 pm
Step Contest: 18 or older, prizes awarded to winners

July 31st, 2005

6:00 am
Pipe Ceremony: With Drum
Raising of Colors: Maple River Band of Ottawa Veterans and Lyons Veterans

10:00 am
Introduction: Maple River Council
Introduction: Lyons Village Council
Introduction: Local Government

11:00 am
Flag Dedication

11:30 am
Tree Planting: The planting of a tree to commemorate this historic event
Plaque: A plaque will be placed at the site of the tree
Speeches: Local Goverment, Local Maple River Band of Ottawa

Noon Break

1:30 pm
Entertainment: Drumming and singing throughout the day
Open Dance: All invited to dance non regalia

4:00 pm
Traditional Feast: Maple River Band members and invited guests

6:00 pm
Closing Remarks: Chief and Sub Chief Maple River Band of Ottawa
Traveling Song
Sacred Fire Extinguished