The 2016-17 Miss, Jr. Miss and ‘Lil Miss Oneida Pageant was held last evening at Thornberry Creek at Oneida. As excitement, anxiety and anticipation filled the air, contestants vying for the respective crowns brought forth their platforms and explained their reasons why they felt deserving of the titles.
As they prepared to relinquish their crowns, outgoing Miss Oneida Jessica House, Jr. Miss Marissa Danforth and ‘Lil Miss Margaret Cornelius gave passionate and often emotional farewell addresses as they talked about all the wonderful experiences they shared during the past year representing the Oneida Nation in such a proud fashion.
After more than an hour of high energy performances, the three-panel judges made their decisions, and the coronations were announced. Your new 2016-17 Miss Oneida is Katy Bermke, Jr. Miss is Kaylee Schuyler and ‘Lil Miss is Avery Nooyen. With the nomination of Katy Bermke as the new reigning Miss Oneida 2016-17, this marks the first time in Oneida pageant history that a triple-crown nominee has been selected. Bermke also served as ‘Lil Miss Oneida from 2009-10 and also as Jr. Miss from 2011-12.
Read the full story from this year’s pageant in the July 7 issue of the Kalihwisaks.
