Gov. congratulates Miss Gila River 2010 Tia Benally after the new royalty was formerly introduced before Tribal Council.
SACATON- The newly crowned Miss Gila River 2010 and her attendants were formally introduced to Tribal Council on Apr. 7, 2010 by members of the royalty committee at the Governance Center.
Miss Gila River 2008 Diana Antone, D1, began the presentation by praising the young ladies for their poise and determination during the pageant and also for their refined etiquette since they were crowned on Mar. 13, 2010 at the Komatke Boys & Girls Club in D6. Miss Gila River 2010 Tia Benally, 19, D3, beamed with excitement and shined in the afterglow of her victory while she introduced herself before proud Council Representatives. Lorena Clashin, 1st attendant, and Amanda Parker, 2nd attendant were likewise congratulated during the formal presentation.
Benally’s platform is “Youth Empowerment” and she explained the importance of having a bold yet humble youth to represent the Community. She said every young Native American “should be fearless.”
Clashin and Parker also vowed to uphold their faith in the Community by being positive models for the youth.
Council Representative Delane Enos, D5, encouraged the young ladies to follow what’s in their hearts. “Be who you want to be, not what someone else is telling you to be.”
“Your testimony here was very inspiring” said Council Representative Anthony Villareal, D6, of Benally’s emotional statement. She was very forthcoming as she related to Council that at one point she considered dropping out of high school. With the help of her family and teachers she persisted with her education and subsequently overcame her distress on her way to being crowned Miss Gila River 2010.
Council Representative Brenda Robertson, D5, also praised the young ladies on their demeanor and their appearance as they were attired in lovely traditional dresses. A brief recess was announced as the royalty committee provided Council and guests with cake and refreshments outside Council chambers.
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