By Andrea Holata

BRIGHTON — To inaugurate newly elected Student Council members while expressing appreciation for Seminole culture, a clothing contest was incorporated into the Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School Student Council inauguration Oct. 1.

From kindergarten through eighth grade, students took turns modeling their traditional outfits for the clothing contest.

Boys dressed in modern traditional long shirts with moccasins and turbans, as well old traditional style long shirts with no patchwork.

Girls wore dresses with long capes, skirts and beaded necklaces and earrings. Each grade was awarded with first, second and third place ribbons.

“It makes me proud that our younger generations are displaying our culture, and they are doing it well,” said Louis Gopher, emcee of the event.

After the clothing contest, Councilman Andrew J. Bowers Jr. swore in 10 new Student Council members. Every newly elected member placed their left hand on the Bible, raised their right hand and promised to set a good example, work hard and actively learn the Creek language and Seminole culture.

After the inauguration, each elected representative gave a speech and received a sash by the outgoing representative.

“I would like to thank everybody who participated in the election, and I will represent our school to the best of my ability,” said Student Council Chairman Ivess Baker to his peers.

Councilman Bowers and Brighton Board Rep. Larry Howard shared advice with the newly elected members.

“When you say you’re going to be a good example, that means you’re going to do what is right, like helping other students without being asked,” Councilman Bowers said. “Indians used to say you don’t have to go around bragging about what you are or what you know; just go do it. People will notice, they will trust you and they will follow.”

In true inauguration fashion, all newly elected officers, outgoing officers and Tribal dignitaries formed a line for all students, teachers and parents to shake hands and to formally welcome them as PECS’ Student Council.

2013-2014 Student Council

Chairman: Ivess Baker
Eighth Grade: Jalynn Jones
Seventh Grade: Chynna Villareal
Sixth Grade: Silas Madrigal
Fifth Grade: Billy Bailey
Fourth Grade: Dakoya Nunez
Third Grade: Winnie Gopher
Second Grade: Ashlynn Collins
First Grade: Madison Ayuso
Kindergarten: Hinton Anderson