Thank you, dear Ponca family, for gathering with me here at the heart of our community—the Powwow Arena. As an elder, it brings me great joy to share the story of this sacred place, woven with our resilience, unity, and cultural pride.

I remember the humble beginnings of our Powwow Arena—a vision born from our ancestors' hearts. It was a time of renewal, reclaiming our identity after years of adversity. With each swing of the hammer and each raised post, we breathed life into our dreams, crafting a space where our traditions could thrive.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting its golden light upon the land, our ancestors, led by Aljo Picotte, Pat Wright, and other dedicated souls, toiled tirelessly to erect the first arbor. It was a labor of love, a testament to the strength of our community bonds. Decades later, when the winds of change and nature's fury damaged our second arbor, we stood united, determined to rebuild and restore what had been lost.

Within the grounds of the Powwow Arena, we find solace in the rhythms of our traditions—a dance as old as time itself. With each beat of the drum and each step of the dancer, we honor the spirits of our ancestors, keeping alive the flame of our cultural heritage. This legacy, passed down through generations, binds us together as one family.

In the flickering glow of the bonfire, beneath the canopy of stars, our Powwow Arena becomes a sacred space where stories are shared, laughter rings out, and tears are shed. It is a place where the past and present converge, where the echoes of our ancestors mingle with the voices of our children. Here, amidst the vibrant colors of regalia and the melodies of the drum, we find strength in our shared history and comfort in our shared humanity.

As the years unfold before us, we stand on the threshold of tomorrow with hope in our hearts and determination in our souls. As we embark on the construction of a new arbor in 2024, let us carry forward the lessons of our past—the resilience, unity, and unwavering spirit that have carried us through the ages. May the Powwow Arena continue to stand as a beacon of cultural pride and community spirit for generations to come, a testament to the enduring legacy of the Ponca people.

As you leave this trail marker, may the story of the Powwow Arena resonate within you, inspiring you to cherish our heritage and honor the traditions that have shaped our journey. Walk with reverence, dear family, for you tread upon sacred ground, where the past and present converge in a timeless dance of remembrance and celebration.