"Todd and Tina Beebe set up five tiny folding chairs Friday afternoon at the Adams Center on the University of Montana campus, the first family to stake out a spot for a weekend of dancing at the Kyi-Yo Powwow.
Todd Beebe arrived in Missoula from his home in Yakima, Wash., with his wife and seven children, setting up big and little chairs for 17 extended family members and the Beebes' children, ages 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 2 and almost 1. “That's why we have to get here early,” Todd said. “We have so many kids. Imagine what it's like getting ready for grand entry. You should see us at Wal-Mart. People count us all the time.”
Five of the seven Beebe children planned to dance in the Friday and Saturday contests at the powwow. As contestants, all dancers are required to participate in all three of the grand entries, the pageantlike entrance in which all the men, women and children dancers enter the powwow arena in single file.
The Beebes will be among 500 to 800 people who are expected to register for singing and dance contests during the 41st annual Kyi-Yo Powwow, an event organized by Native students attending the University of Montana.
“Everyone is welcome to come,” said Amanda Decker, Kyi-Yo Club president. “It's not just for Native Americans. This is a time when they can learn about our culture. It could be an educational experience for everyone. If they don't understand what's going on, they are encouraged to ask questions.”"
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Kyi-Yo Powwow: Family of dance (The Missoulian 4/18)