ITHACA, N.Y. --The fourth annual Powwow and Smoke Dance Competition will be held on Saturday, April 13, in Barton Hall at Cornell University. The "grand entry" begins at noon and the powwow, hosted by the Native American Students at Cornell organization, will continue until 8 p.m. This event is free and open to the public.

"The Native American students at Cornell extend a warm welcome, to native and non-native people alike, to come and be a part of this exciting family event," said Jason Corwin, a graduating senior in communications and co-chair of the Native American Students at Cornell group. "The smoke dance competition is always a highlight. T his event is an annual crowd-pleaser and is an excellent opportunity to learn more about Native American culture," he said.

The powwow will feature a variety of native dancing, singing and performances. In addition to the competitive powwow and smoke dancing, there will be exhibitions of social dances.

Smoke dancing is unique to the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) and is noted for its fast pace and freestyle movements. Participants in all of the competitions will be judged on their grace, regalia and dancing.

Bill Crouse, from the Seneca Nation, will serve as master of ceremonies. The North American Iroquois Veteran's Association Color Guard also will be featured and the host drum will be Mystic River from Mashantucket, Conn.

Native cuisine will be available all day and there will be a large arts and crafts vendor area.

For further information, call (607) 255-1919, or send e-mail to cornellpowwow@yahoo.com .

-30-