The men of the Northeast Hethuska Society are committed to preserving the cultural traditions shared with us by the Ponca Hethuska, while supporting the community that carries us forward. Through spirituality, brotherhood, ceremony, and education, we share the responsibility of our commitment to honor those who have gone before us, so we may build for the future.
NudoN’hoNga Speaks
To all Members, Families, Extended Families, and Friends,
I wanted to take a moment to thank everyone who helped make our dance a few weeks ago such a success. It was a great weekend, and I am truly grateful for all the support, hard work, and participation that made it possible.
Whether you traveled a long distance, helped set up or clean up, sang, danced, cooked, donated, or simply came to be part of the gathering, thank you. Every person played a part in making the weekend special.
For me, the best part was seeing everyone together, friends catching up, families spending time together, and people sharing our traditions. The energy and little moments throughout the weekend were something special, and it reminded me how fortunate we are to have such a strong and supportive Hethuska family.
Ceremonials like these are only possible because of the many people willing to give their time, effort, & financial support. Your kindness and support help keep our traditions alive and make our...
To all Members, Families, Extended Families, and Friends,
I wanted to take a moment to thank everyone who helped make our dance a few weeks ago such a success. It was a great weekend, and I am truly grateful for all the support, hard work, and participation that made it possible.
Whether you traveled a long distance, helped set up or clean up, sang, danced, cooked, donated, or simply came to be part of the gathering, thank you. Every person played a part in making the weekend special.
For me, the best part was seeing everyone together, friends catching up, families spending time together, and people sharing our traditions. The energy and little moments throughout the weekend were something special, and it reminded me how fortunate we are to have such a strong and supportive Hethuska family.
Ceremonials like these are only possible because of the many people willing to give their time, effort, & financial support. Your kindness and support help keep our traditions alive and make our society stronger with each gathering.
As we look ahead, we are hoping to get a group together to attend the Ponca Fall Dance during the first week of October 2026. If any of you would like to join the group going down or learn more about the trip, please reach out. We would love to support the Ponca and their fall dance.
Thank you again for everything that you all do for our Northeast Hethuska Society. I appreciate each and every one of you, and I look forward to seeing you all again soon.
Stay well and see you on the trail!!!
Luke Ciarfella
Announcements
MKIM Annual Powwow
July 11, 2026
Location: MKIM Museum, Warner, NH
Join us for this 2 day event, July 11 and 12, 2026 for a celebration of culture, community, and tradition at MKIM’s 25th Annual Intertribal Powwow!
Hethuska Ceremonial Weekend
June 12, 2026
Location: Red Hook, NY
Through fellowship, food, and ceremony, we continue the ways of the Hethuska and ensure they remain strong for the generations to come.
Annual Pledge
February 15, 2026
It is the hope of the leadership that ALL members will pledge the $125.00. While we understand that some may have a difficult time coming up with the usual pledge, please give what you can.
About the Hethuska
The Hethuska is traditionally a warrior society of the Ponca people. Conceived in honoring men possessing responsibility, generosity, and service. It recognizes individuals who have demonstrated courage and leadership not exclusively in times of conflict, but including their ability to show compassion, and caring for others within their community.
The Hethuska brings forth songs, dances, and teachings that express and uphold these values, which are maintained through the guidance of the headman (NudoN’hoNga) with his chosen committee who continue the traditions which were shared with us by the Ponca.
A special thank you to our friend Clara/James Thetford, for the use of their photographs on this site.
History of the Northeast Hethuska Society
We are a comparatively small organization committed to the aims and goals of the original members, which were established in the 1970’s. The society was known as the AIS Hethuska. It was founded by men dedicated to following the Native American traditions shared with them by the Ponca tribe. Our aim is to adhere to these traditions that were handed down to us and maintain our connection to the evolving customs that the Ponca people continue to share with us.
Over the decades, we have given away thousands in scholarships as well as direct donations to people and families in need. Our gifts have been given within our circle and neighborhoods, as well as to western reservations and local shelters. Our giving is not limited to monetary gifts; we deliver food baskets to families as well as our members. We donate time and energy to service projects, assisting local people and other charitable organizations in need of labor and materials.
Annually, we gather for our ceremonial dance, where we come together to dance and reflect to generate positive energy and a spiritual connection to each other and our place on this earth. We collect donations to further our charitable giving away. But we could use your help.
We honor the teachings entrusted to us by the Ponca people by preserving the songs, dances, and values of the
Hethuska, strengthening community through service and generosity, and supporting future generations through
education and shared purpose.
Our Values
Honor
Living with integrity, respect, and gratitude for those who came before us.
Responsibility
Serving our entire family and community with humility and purpose.
Courage
Standing strong in the face of challenges and carrying our teachings forward.
Tradition
Preserving the songs, dances, and values of the Hethuska for future generations.
Our Impact and Support
The Northeast Hethuska Society supports cultural preservation, community needs,
and the continuation of Ponca teachings. Through the generosity of our members,
families, and friends, we provide direct assistance that strengthens our people
and honors our traditions.
How We Supported
Assistance for families in need
Emergency support for community members
Help with cultural participation costs
Support for charitable organizations
Scholarships for youth and students
Veteran support initiatives
$2,100
Direct support to families in our community and out west, helping with travel,
emergencies, and participation in cultural gatherings.
$981
Support for charitable organizations, including the Ponca Coat Drive,
Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum, Run to Home Base (Veterans), Redwood City
GoFundMe, and Vermont disaster relief.
$1,500
Scholarships awarded to support educational goals and honor the values of
service, leadership, and community responsibility.
Total Support Provided in 2025: $4,581
Looking Ahead
Expanding youth involvement
Strengthening ceremonial resources
Supporting elders
Continuing assistance for families and veterans
This work is guided by the Headman and supported by The Committee, whose members
help ensure that our responsibilities, resources, and traditions are carried
forward with care.
The Committee
The Committee supports the Headman and helps guide the responsibilities,
organization, and cultural work of the Northeast Hethuska Society.
Through service, planning, and shared purpose, they ensure that our
gatherings, traditions, and community commitments remain strong for
future generations.
Committee (HoN’ga)
Larry Thetford
Dennis Wood
Ed Coughlin
Greg Wood
Mike Warner (Cook, U’haN)
Alan McCartney
Headman (NudoN’hoNga)
The Headman guides the songs, dances, and responsibilities of the
Hethuska. Luke Ciarfella serves with dedication, humility, and deep
respect for the teachings passed down through generations. His role
helps ensure that our gatherings remain strong, culturally grounded,
and welcoming to all.
Society Roles
Camp Crier (Waje’pa)
Rich Williams
Whipman (WanoN’she)
Chris Ciarfella
Chris Tate
Tail Dancer (SiN’de)
Matthew Wood
Tim Lyle
Eric Sandoval
Jacob Walters
Water Carrier (NiN’athiN)
Reid Thetford
Earl Sutherland IV
