Even a tradition that’s 44 years old can make some changes.

This year was the first time for two new categories in the Poarch Creek Indian Tribal Princess Contest. The new crowns were awarded in the “Little Miss” and “Elder” categories, as well as the customary Elementary, Junior and Senior divisions.

The five new princesses were honored Thursday morning, at the 44th annual PCI Thanksgiving Pow Wow.

Savannah Lyn Gibson was named the winner in the Little Miss division, Brionna Slate won the Elementary division, Gabriella McGhee took first in the Junior division, Caitlyn Barnhill was crowned the winner in the Senior division, and Cora Voncile Peters was the first Elder division winner.

The PCI Tribal Princess Contest kicked off another exciting two-day event at the pow wow grounds, featuring dancers and other performers from PCI and many other Indian tribes from across the country.

Each of the competitors in Thursday’s PCI Tribal Princess Contest was dressed in traditional tribal outfits, and waved to the crowd prior to coming before the judges.

Some of the contestants in the older-age categories were asked to answer questions about their Creek heritage, as a part of the competition.

When asked to name some traditional Creek crafts, Elementary division contestant Gracie Buckhault said, “beading, making chinaberry necklaces and finger weaving.”

Junior division competitor Haley Fretwell was asked what changes she would most like to see in her community.

“I’d love to have peace and community among all of us, and to cure the drug problem in our community,” she said.

Senior division contestant Madison McGhee was asked what she had learned from participating in the competition.

“I learned that by working together, like our ancestors, we can accomplish anything we want to accomplish,” McGhee said.

Prior to the crowning of the princesses, two special awards were handed out to contestants. Brionna Slate earned the Talent Award, and Haley Fretwell won the Spirit Award.