By Chilah Brown Mille Lacs Band Member Photos by Dino Downwind Mille Lacs Band Member
On Saturday, March 24, spectators of all ages came together at the Chiminising Community Center to kick off the 2018 pow- wow season with the Chiminising Ziigwan Royalty contest and 3rd annual Chiminising Ziigwan Youth Powwow.
Masters of Ceremonies Byron Ninham and Deilyah Dexter, a graduating senior from Onamia High School and future Be- midji State student, announced that the two host drums were Timber Trails and Stone Bridge. Other drums included Drum Hop, Obaashing, Nut Hill, White Ash, and MNX.
As the day began, spectators and dancers enjoyed themselves being entertained with specials and spot dances, with winners of all ages. As the audience awaited the royalty contest, outgoing royalty Aniyah “Noondinookwe” White and Waylon “Mamiizziiwekamig” Mitchell spoke about how they had fun throughout the year traveling across the state to various powwows, representing Chiminising Ziigwan. After the speeches, it was time to welcome the newly crowned Chimi- nising Princess and Brave.
The Chiminising Ziigwan Princess for 2018-19 is Jazmine “Miskwanakadokde” Regguinti, a 10-year-old who attends Isle Elementary. Her proud mother is Ashley Regguinti and grand- parents are Patricia and Franklin Regguinti.
The Chiminising Ziigwan Brave for 2018-19 is Jayden “Waubonikwad” Sayers, a 9-year-old Isle Elementary student, son of William Sayers Jr., grandson of Sami Thomas, and great-grandson to Dorothy Sam. The excitement on the newly crowned royalty was contagious. The families of the Chiminising royalty were overwhelmed with pride as the tears of joy were flowing.
The day wound down with supper break as the crowd enjoyed Indian tacos sponsored by the Niigaan program and homemade desserts made by Elder Melanie Gahbow and her helpful daughters Kim Adelman and Deb and Michelle Wanless. When the evening session concluded, spectators had the opportunity to enjoy the hand drum contest, ribbon skirt/shirt contest, spot dances, and intertribals.
As the powwow came to a close, the Chiminising community and powwow committee wrapped up another successful event. Miigwech to the previous royalty doing a great job, and congratulations to the newly crowned Chiminising Ziigwan royalty. Safe travels and good health as you embark on your new journey as young leaders representing Chiminising in a good way.
Powwow history
For many years the community members of District IIa have wanted a Chiminising powwow. In 2015, Chiminising community held monthly legislative meetings regarding housing, economic development, culture and language, and community development. At one of the culture and language meetings, it was suggested and agreed upon by the community to establish a powwow committee and hold a youth powwow.
After months of planning and support from District II Representative David ‘Niib’ Aubid, the Chiminising Powwow received a budget for a one-day youth royalty contest powwow. On March 12, 2016, the first Chiminising Ziigwan Royalty contest was held and the powwow was a success.
Although it has only been a few years since the first Chiminising Ziigwan Youth Powwow was established, the powwow has become an annual tradition. It has brought the community together for the benefit of the children. When times are tough, the sound of the drums, children dancing, and the community laughing is therapy for the winter weather blues.
Bringing the community together has always been a focus in District IIa. As the Chiminising Community is growing and thriving, the people in District IIa are honored to finally host a powwow. Chi Miigwech to Representative Aubid for his support over the years and the powwow committee members new and old for taking the time to realize the dreams of a powwow for the Chiminising community.
