The Lac du Flambeau Indian tribe held a ground blessing at the construction site for the new Waaswaaganing Indian Bowl Living Arts and Culture Center. The grounds have been home to the Lac du Flambeau Amphitheater since 1951 where traditional dance performances and cultural events would take place. Since the demolition of the old building last year, such celebrations have been limited. Tribal Historic Preservation Officer Melinda Young says the new center will be a mecca for future celebrations.
“…we will be able to share our songs, our dance, and our stories because that’s integral to who we are as people. And really, it comes down to educating. What’s more than to share something unique to our visiting friends and why we want to continue that has become part of the fabric of our community.”
The ground blessing is a prelude to the groundbreaking planned for spring 2016.Young says the tribe has raised 1.6 of the 3.6 million dollars needed for the new amphitheater. She says their currents funds are enough to start building the dance grounds. However, she says an additional two million dollars will be needed to complete phase two, which will include the Living Arts and Culture Center.
