Miss Warm Springs Pageant on Dec. 26

The Miss Warm Springs Pageant is coming up on December 26.

Miss Warm Springs 2014 Charmaine Billey will present the 2015 crown to the new Miss Warm Springs at the pageant, held at the Agency Longhouse.

Applicants are between 18 and 24 years, must be a Warm Springs member, drug- and alcohol free, and a role model. She must reside on the reservation, though there are exceptions for off-reservation students.

The contestants receive prizes for taking part in the pageant. The new Miss Warm Springs will receive a full beaded crown and banner.

During the year, Miss Warm Springs travels to tribal events around the region—the Gathering of Nations, and conferences of the Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians, and the National Indian Education Association, among others.

Miss Warm Springs participates in parades in Warm Springs, Redmond, Prineville, Madras, etc. The tribes provide some travel expenses for Miss Warm Springs.

The Tribal Council staff organize the Miss Warm Springs Pageant.

Applications can be picked up and returned at the Tribal Council office. They are also availabe on the KWSO website. If you have any questions, call Minnie Yahtin or Emily Yazzie at 541-553-3257.

At the pageant the contestants are judged on their knowledge of the Confederated Tribes and the reservation; and knowledge of traditional foods, ceremonies, clothing, crafts and social activities.

The judges also look for poise, personality and beauty, speaking ability and appearance.

Contestants are asked to perform two tribal dances. They are asked to type essays on “Why I want to be Miss Warm Springs,” and “What will be my civic project for the community during my reign?”

A table will be available at the pageant to showcase personal talents, academic and sports achievements, as well as traditional.

Applications are due at the Tribal Council office by 5 p.m. on Dec. 22.