My Newest Treasure: A Gifting by Avalina Tamayo

It is customary for the out-going Pow Wow Princess to have a "gifting" ceremony on the last day of her reign. The 2007-2008 Inter-tribal Pow Wow Princess for the Fort Omaha Pow Wow was Miss Avalina Tamayo. Avalina's Grandmother, Beulah Tamayo, has been my friend, colleague, and source of both support and inspiration for many years.

While doing our usual vending at the Pow Wow this year, I thought I heard my name being called to come to the arena but was sure I was mistaken. So, I continued on with selling my wares when a man came to the booth and told me that they were waiting for me in the arena. I couldn't imagine why! But I quickly found someone to help Patrick man our booth so that I could leave.

Much to my suprise, Avalina, her Grandmother, and Mother were standing there with this wonderful quilt awaiting my arrival. I was in a state of shock to be so honored!

Avalina can be seen in the photo above. She is the one with the number 5 on her regalia. Her grandmother is to the right (in dark glasses) and her mother is draping the quilt over my shoulders. Avalina was also featured on the cover of the flyer for the Pow Wow in her Pow Wow crown and full regalia. Avalina designed her regalia and her father, Steve Tamayo, made it for her.

It is pleasure to even know the Tamayo family let alone be honored by them in this way. I was shocked, humbled, and ever so happy!


Miss Avalina Tamayo, Pow Wow Princess 2007-2008 Fort Omaha Inter-tribal. Mvto and Wa-do (Thank you in Creek and Cherokee) Avalina for this wonderful honor! I will treasure both the quilt and the memory forwever!