Winners of the Dzil Libei and Miss Hawkeye pageants

CAMERON, Ariz. - The 2009 Miss Dzil Libei and Miss Hawkeye pageant was held on Aug. 27. The contestants for Miss Dzil Libei (for students in fourth to sixth grades) were Marisa Nez and Moriah Yazzie. Marisa Nez won the title of Miss Dzil Libei for 2009-2010.

She is the daughter of Martanya Slim-Yellow and Ricuerdo Yellow. Marisa is Ta'neeszahnii (Tangle Clan), born for Naasht'ezhi Tabaahi (Zuni Edgewater). Her Maternal grandfather is of the Tsi'naajinii (Blackstreak) clan and paternal grandfather is of the Naakaidine'eh (Mexican People Clan).

Nez entertained the crowd by singing a special song that she has known since she was young. Nez enjoys listening to Native American music. She plans to do well in school this year.

The contestants for Miss Hawkeye (for students in kindergarten to third grade) were Jaime Butler and Terri Yazzie.

Butler was crowned Miss Hawkeye for 2009-2010.

Butler is the daughter of Jamescita Peshlakai and Lane Butler and the granddaughter of Mae and James Peshlakai. Jaime is Ta'neeszahnii (Tangle Clan), born for Todich'iinii (Bitterwater). Her Maternal grandfather is Kinlichiinii (Red House People) and paternal grandfather is Kinyaa'aanii (Towering House Clan).

Butler introduced herself by clan, then introduced her parents and grandparents.

She entertained the audience by performing a hoop dance. She was able to put the hoops into a ball. Butler enjoys watching all types of Native American dances.

This year the pageant was under the direction of Mrs. Sally Yellow, Navajo Language Teacher.

For more information about the Dzil Libei pageant or about Dzil Libei Elementary School, contact Sharlene Navaho, at (928) 679-2243.