Cedar Ridge Academy Students Volunteer at the Mini Bear Dance

Cedar Ridge Academy students traveled to Fort Duchesne to volunteer to help with the Ute Tribe's Mini Bear Dance. There was a total of twelve students and two staff that volunteered, none of who have ever been to a bear dance, so the curiosity was practically overwhelming. Upon our arrival, the dance grounds seemed hectic and very unorganized. We had no clue of what exactly we could do to help out because the local high school was also there directing all the little kids to their designated areas. Eventually as the festivities began, we were asked to hand out water to dancers and audience members, for it was getting hotter and hotter. After we finished passing out water, the announcer asked for all the "little bears" which meant all the little kids attending to come out to the center and participate in the traditional dance. After watching the dancers for awhile we were asked to serve lunch to almost 500 people. Around 11:30 we walked over to where the food was set up and got ready for people to start coming over. What started out as a slow start suddenly turned into a hectic fast paced activity. We were all serving food for half an hour straight before we got to eat, but when we did get to eat, it was worth the wait and a perfect way to end our activity. Overall the activity was nothing like we expected, but a great success nonetheless. I enjoyed participating in one of the Ute Indians traditional dances and want to thank the Headstart program for inviting us to the event.

Rafi