Hollywood celebrates Get to know Trevor Thomas wraps Mother’s Day Rollie Gilliam III up season at Warner v COMMUNITY v 6A EDUCATION 2B SPORTS v 6B

www.seminoletribune.org Free Volume XLV • Number 5 May 31, 2021 Florida Legislature overwhelmingly Employees ratifies gaming compact adjust to Tribe’s ‘All the people partial of Florida are reopening winners’ BY BEVERLY BIDNEY Staff Reporter BY BEVERLY BIDNEY When the Seminole Tribe declared an Staff Reporter emergency March 16, 2020, and closed all tribal offices, no one knew what the ensuing Sports betting just gained a foothold in 12 months would entail. Florida and, pending federal approval, the The tribe tightened its belt as businesses, Seminole Tribe will be its exclusive operator. restaurants and casinos closed nationwide The Florida Legislature overwhelmingly due to the spread of Covid-19. To keep approved the gaming compact between employees safe, many departments went into the Seminole Tribe and the state. It passed virtual mode; others stayed open to continue the Senate on a 38 to 1 vote May 18. The to provide in-person services. House of Representatives passed it on a 97 But with the accessibility and to 17 vote May 19 – the last day of a special effectiveness of vaccines, on April 5 the tribe session convened to consider the 30-year enacted a limited reopening of tribal offices. compact. Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the bill Safety measures are still in place. Building May 25. occupancy must be 50% or less, in-person Before it went to the Legislature, the service is by appointment only, Covid-19 compact agreement was signed April 23 safeguards are still followed and no indoor by DeSantis and Seminole Tribe Chairman Image via Florida Channel large gatherings are permitted. Marcellus W. Osceola Jr. Jim Allen, CEO of Seminole Gaming and Chairman of Hard Rock International, addresses a House committee May 17 in Tallahassee. After being closed for a few months The compact guarantees the tribe will early in the pandemic, tribal casinos began send the state a revenue share of at least Indian gaming through the Indian Gaming would begin no earlier than Oct. 15 at the Florida and the Seminole Tribe of Florida,” reopening about a year ago under safety $2.5 billion over the first five years or $500 Regulatory Act (IGRA). The Secretary tribe’s casinos. The tribe would license sports Chairman Osceola said in a statement. “It is a guidelines and reduced capacity. The Ah- million per year, and about $20 billion over of the Interior has 45 days from receipt of betting to pari-mutuels statewide and receive historic and mutually-beneficial partnership Tah-Thi-Ki Museum and Billie Swamp Safari the 30-year duration. the compact to approve or disapprove it. If 40% of its revenue. Additionally, craps and between the State and Seminole Tribe that have remained closed until further notice. The deal must be approved by the Interior takes no action within that time, the roulette will be allowed at the tribe’s casinos. will positively impact all Floridians for Employees recently returning to the U.S. Department of the Interior, which is compact is considered to be approved to the “Today, all the people of Florida are decades to come.” workplace are adjusting to wearing masks in led by Deb Haaland (Laguna Pueblo), the extent it complies with IGRA. winners, thanks to legislative approval of the office, getting their temperature checked first Native American cabinet secretary in If final approvals are met, sports betting the Gaming Compact between the State of and remaining socially distanced. U.S history. Interior has jurisdiction over F See COMPACT on page 4A F See WORKPLACE on page 5A Ground broken for long-awaited trading Miss Universe winner post on Immokalee Reservation crowned at Seminole BY BEVERLY BIDNEY Rec90 fuel. The plans include two canopies; completed in seven months, or by the end Staff Reporter one in the front for regular vehicles and of November, according to Mauro Laguzzi, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino small trucks, and one in the back for semi- project manager. IMMOKALEE — The wait is over for trucks and recreational vehicles. The trading “We believe it will provide a valuable the Immokalee Reservation. post will work with the nearby Seminole asset to the community and the tribe,” said BY KEVIN JOHNSON crown, and I hope to serve the world through Decades after first being floated as an Casino Hotel and accept players’ points for Golden Johansson, executive director of Senior Editor my advocacy for equality in the year to come idea, a trading post will finally be built on gas and items inside the store. operations for the STOF board. “We were and beyond.” the reservation. Ground was broken April “Everyone needs a gas station,” said able to work through the pandemic and HOLLYWOOD — Hard Rock and the Meza is from Chihuahua City. She has 29 during a small ceremony that featured President Mitchell Cypress. “Whatever finalize the plans.” Miss Universe competition – each with vast a degree in software engineering. As an elected officials and residents. stumbling blocks they threw in front of us, Those plans include a dedicated tobacco international recognition – proved to be a activist, she works closely with the Municipal “It took us a long time to get it rolling,” the shovels are ready today.” counter in the store, as well as a beer cave, natural partnership. Institute for Women, which aims to end said Big Cypress Board Rep. Joe Frank. Immokalee Council Liaison Ray Garza 15 coolers for beverages and dairy items Hard Rock has venues in nearly 70 gender-based violence. She is also a certified “The original idea was made in the early remembered when tribal kids on their four- and three more for frozen seasonal foods. A countries; the Miss Universe contestants, make-up artist and model, whose lifestyle 2000s. We started pursuing it about 10 years wheelers were stopped by police on their coffee and food service counter rounds out who spent a week at Seminole Hard Rock includes being vegan and participating in ago and got it on the books a couple of years way to get gas at a nearby station. The the store. Hotel & Casino Hollywood, represented 74 extreme sports. ago. We had to hit the reset button a couple reservation’s residents will no longer have The site will feature 27 parking countries. Pitbull was scheduled to perform at the of times, but the community is happy to see to go onto the main road to fuel up because spaces, four handicapped spots and two After days of photo shoots, charity competition, but he was replaced by Luis it.” the trading post will be accessible without for trailer parking. The trading post will be work and rehearsals, the 69th Miss Universe Fonsi. Reigning Miss Universe Zozibini The trading post will join the Seminole leaving the reservation. accessible by two main entrances and exits competition culminated with the crowning of Tunzi, from South Africa, crowned the new Tribe of Florida Inc.’s other trading posts in “Council gave us the seed money to on Immokalee Road and two secondary ones Andrea Meza, Miss Mexico, as the winner, champion. Julia Gama, Miss Brazil, was Hollywood and Brighton, which have been start this,” Garza said. “The county gave us for direct community access. on May 16 in front of a television audience runner-up. operating for several years. a lot of hurdles to jump, but the money was “Joe (Frank) and Ralph (Sanchez) put that officials said reached more than 190 During the week of preparation, many The Immokalee Trading Post will still there.” their hearts into this project, even during countries and territories. contestants shared photos and videos on feature 10 gas pumps, five electric vehicle “This is a big day for Immokalee,” added Covid,” said Hollywood Board Rep. Gordon Entertainer Mario Lopez and model social media of scenes from Seminole Hard (EV) charging stations and a 7,200-square- Immokalee Board Liaison Rafael Sanchez. “Ollie” Wareham. “By putting those shovels Olivia Culpo hosted the event from the stage Rock, including with the Guitar Hotel as a foot convenience store. The dispensers will “The shovels go in the ground today and by in the ground, the Board kept every promise.” of Hard Rock Live. backdrop. The Seminole Tribe’s Cheyenne the end of the year it will be done.” Kippenberger, who recently concluded a offer regular, mid-grade, premium, diesel and F See TRADING POST on page 4A Meza, 26, plans to use her reign as Miss Construction is expected to be Universe as an advocate for women’s rights two-year reign as Miss Indian World, met and against gender-based violence. with Tunzi and some of the contestants. A “I am so honored to have been selected few contestants participated in Hard Rock’s among the 73 other amazing women I stood traditional guitar-smash at the Guitar Hotel. with tonight,” Meza said in a statement. “It is a dream come true to wear the Miss Universe F See UNIVERSE on page 4A

Benjamin Askinas Beverly Bidney Andrea Meza, from Mexico, is crowned Miss Universe on May 16 at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Immokalee Council Liaison Ray Garza, left, and Immokalee Board Liaison Rafael Sanchez move some dirt during the Immokalee Trading Post groundbreaking Casino’s Hard Rock Live in Hollywood. April 29. The dirt in the two boxes was brought from the construction site nearby.

INSIDE: Editorial...... 2A Sports...... 5B Visit the Tribune’s website for news throughout Community...... 3A Education...... 1B the month at seminoletribune.org 2A • The Seminole Tribune • May 31, 2021 Three newcomers, three incumbents win seats in tribal election Editorial STAFF REPORT S. Osceola both retained their seats in the Council’s other two races. In Board races for Seminole Tribe of HOLLYWOOD — The Seminole Tribe of Florida’s Tribal Council and Board of Florida Inc., Bowers won the Big Cypress Washington State tribal coalition passes Directors will have some new representation seat. Incumbent Joe Frank finished second. for the 2021-2023 term. McCall won the Hollywood race which Three newcomers – all women – won featured nine candidates. Incumbent Gordon unprecedented climate change bill seats in the Regular Election on May 10. “Ollie” Wareham did not run. Brighton Mariann Billie, Nadine Bowers and Christine Board Rep. Helene Buster was the Board’s McCall will be inaugurated with victorious lone incumbent that won. •Fawn Sharp and thought he had defeated tribes and shown The “radical” tribal policy requests incumbents in June. The Council and Board representatives, them who was boss. Consent was not going would thus be mainstreamed in all future Billie won the Council race in Big who serve two-year terms, will join Council Matthew Randazzo V into Washington law his veto trumpeted, climate policy debates – and would be Cypress. Incumbent David Cypress finished Chairman/Board Vice-President Marcellus because it would re-define the relationship supported by our community of color second in the five-person field. W. Osceola Jr. and Board President/Council between tribes and the State. . . which was allies who would stand in solidarity with Brighton Councilman Larry L. Howard Vice-Chairman Mitchell Cypress, who are exactly the point when it came to desecrating Indigenous peoples like we have and always and Hollywood Councilman Christopher currently serving four-year terms. t was never a matter of if, but when. sacred sites and burial grounds. will with them. That’s what we said, year after Unfortunately, Governor Inslee had When tribes demanded that the CCA year, defeat after defeat, as Tribal actually lost the battle an entire month earlier include the most pivotal elements of I-1631 NationsI in Washington State tried again and on April 16, 2021. – a 10% guarantee of all revenue to Tribal Biden revives key again and again to pass the comprehensive, We just hadn’t bothered to tell him. projects to match the 10% of Washington aggressive climate change legislation. Earlier in the legislative session, State under direct tribal governance; No matter how each legislative or negotiators representing the Quinault Indian “consent” instead of “consultation” on Native American council electoral battle went, we all knew this was Nation and partners at the Snoqualmie cultural resources impacts; and relocation not a war we could lose. Surrender would Tribe quietly negotiated amendments of HB funding for flooding tribes – we were not BY DAMON SCOTT never be an option. Science told us clearly 1382, a salmon recovery bill, that contained alone. Staff Reporter the policies that were absolutely necessary narrow and unobtrusive consent protections Washington’s communities of color to enact to ensure the survival of our state’s for sacred and archeological sites. Because not only showed up in force to demand President Joe Biden’s promise that his ecosystems and the communities they we didn’t trust Governor Inslee, we never urgent action on climate change, but they administration would work with Native sustain. drew attention to the contents of the bill, offered their fully coordinated support and Americans on a host of issues continued For years we worked on behalf of the which is why it remarkably passed 95-2 in solidarity behind the Tribal Nations that have through his first 100 days in office and Quinault Nation, as the ancestral coastal the State House and a unanimous 49-0 in the stewarded this state since time immemorial. includes the reinstatement of a significant rainforest villages of Taholah and Queets on State Senate. Tribes received decisive support from council. the Pacific Coast faced increasing flooding That’s why on April 16, 2021 — an incredible allies like Latino nonprofit giant Biden recently brought back to life the from sea level rise – and Quinault was only entire month before his veto of consent in El Centro de la Raza and its legendary leader White House Council on Native American one of a half-dozen tribes facing urgent the CCA — Governor Jay Inslee signed Estela Ortega; the Washington Build Black Affairs. Secretary of the Interior Deb crises from sea level rise across the state. the exact policy he hates into law without Alliance led by masterful legislative general Haaland (Laguna Pueblo) was named the We had to keep trying until we developed realizing it. The requirement of an American Paula Sardinas; and the Washington State council’s chair and the group held its first the strategy that succeeded in confronting government to obtain tribal consent is in Black Lives Matter Alliance and its fiery and meeting April 23. the existential crisis of our generation, American law for the first time in history, inspiring leader Sakara Remmu. The council’s goals are to coordinate and generations to come, and provided the and Jay Inslee signed the historic legislation Just as importantly, the environmental with tribes on issues such as the continuing enormous resources needed for those Tribal obliviously and against his own beliefs. powerhouse Washington Conservation Covid-19 response, climate change, Nations to safely and urgently relocate their Voters were full and unequivocal allies of tribal homelands and treaties, economic villages further upland. History Being Made tribes like never before. It’s not surprising development, energy and infrastructure, White House It’s not a matter of if, but when. when you realize who their new CEO is – health care, education and reopening schools, Deb Haaland, U.S. Secretary of Interior That’s also what we said when every To get back to the CCA, it’s impossible the brilliant Alyssa Macy, citizen and former public safety and justice, and international elected official in the state said that tribes to exaggerate the importance of the pathway COO of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Indigenous issues. for prioritizing the needs of tribal would never get guaranteed funding parity Washington tribes have now cleared. Springs. She was joined in this alliance by At the first meeting, 10 cabinet communities during their first months in worth billions of dollars into law. While the It is a trail to the Promised Land that I-1631 veteran Mike Stevens, Washington secretaries and other top government office through the reestablishment of the entire country suffers a “Quiet Crisis” of many other states and Tribal Nations, and Director of the Nature Conservancy, who officials discussed strengthening nation- [council] and their renewed focus on tribal systematic underfunding of tribes at every eventually Congress, will have no choice but applied the lessons of that campaign to to-nation relationships, improving tribal consultation,” the Native American Finance level, we were dreamers to ever imagine that to follow as the impacts of climate change achieve a victory equal to any other in the consultation, and formalizing committees Officers Association said in a statement. we could hardwire funding equity into law become ever more dire, and the desperate proud history of the Nature Conservancy and within the council. President Barack Obama had established in Washington State, finally guaranteeing need for Tribal expertise and resources in co- to build trust and respect with Tribal leaders “The White House Council on Native the council through an executive order in a level playing field after generations of managing the response is better appreciated. like never before. American Affairs represents an important 2013 in response to requests from tribal systematic resource deprivation. When the “Climate Commitment Faced by withering criticism from Seattle commitment to strengthen tribal sovereignty, leaders. However it was dormant under the It’s not a matter of if, but when. Act” was passed by the Washington State nonprofits claiming to speak for “BIPOC” uphold our commitment to tribal nations, and Trump administration and had not met That’s definitely what we said when Legislature in April of 2021, the historic groups that somehow never consulted with honor the United States’ nation-to-nation regularly since 2016. we were told it would be generations before victory was the product of tens of thousands Washington’s actual tribes and ignored relationships,” Haaland said in a statement. The White House also recently the box-checking lip service of “Tribal of hours of grassroots organizing, advocacy, them when they did take positions, House “Addressing the systemic inequities announced that it would host a White House consultation” was replaced with obtaining strategic planning, policy development, and Democrats were openminded and ready to that impact Indigenous peoples is the Tribal Leaders Summit in late 2021. The “Tribal consent.” American governments political gamesmanship by Washington’s partner with this unprecedented multiracial responsibility of every federal agency that purpose of the summit is to provide a venue would never recognize a sovereign Tribal tribes and incalculable millions of dollars of coalition. will require an all-of-government approach for leaders of the 574 federally recognized Nation’s right to say “No!” to a project they investments. across the administration. U.S. tribes to interact directly with Biden support, even though it was the basis of the The proof is in the legislation: you The Hand of the Creator The reestablishment of the council was and representatives from the highest levels United Nations Declaration of the Rights of can definitively tell by the precedent- praised in Indian Country. of his administration. Indigenous Peoples. shattering policies contained within the Once the I-1631 provisions were “[We] applaud the Biden administration More information is at whitehouse.gov. This week was the “when” in the phrase “cap and invest program” created by the included by Representative Joe Fitzgibbon, “It’s not a matter of if, but when history will Climate Commitment Act that it was the rare the result was miraculous. The most be made by Washington tribes.” American legislation sincerely co-written by important bill in Washington State history’s After 15 years of relentless effort, sovereign tribes. most controversial and technically complex this year Washington State Tribal Nations In short, there is a reason this legislation sections were somehow negotiated, drafted, Native veterans procession is finally succeeded in passing America’s most attracted the formal support of nineteen and passed in only two weeks in partnership aggressive and revolutionary climate change sovereign Tribal Nations, as well as the with nineteen Tribal Nations, all of them back, but for 2022 policy, the Climate Commitment Act, Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians diverse and unique in their outlook and and securing unprecedented human rights (ATNI): it contained policies that tribes needs, who reached consensus with each BY DAMON SCOTT The memorial was many years in the protections and over a billion dollars in state clearly were invested in supporting and other and a majority of legislators in both Staff Reporter making and is one that involved members of funding for tribes over the first fifteen years enacting. chambers. Somehow, we kept the entire the Seminole Tribe and its leadership. The of the policy. The outcome – a career-defining victory coalition together until the very end. Native American veterans and their tribe is one of 85 that supported the venture We finally have a proven blueprint for for Governor Jay Inslee and Washington It’s hard not to see the hand of the families waited a long time for a national financially. In addition, Stephen Bowers, the successfully passing Indigenous-led climate Democrats, and a place in history for Creator in such an unlikely underdog come- memorial, but it finally happened in 2020. tribe’s former Veteran Affairs director (who change policy in America – as well as the legislative hero Rep. Joe Fitzgibbon – from-behind victory. But because of the pandemic, an in-person passed away in 2020), and President Mitchell blueprint for replacing Tribal consultation demonstrates that political benefit of Thanks to the brilliance, power, and ceremony and veterans procession was Cypress, campaigned for and gathered with “Tribal consent” in American law for American states partnering with Tribal moral leadership of Washington’s Tribal postponed in 2020 and 2021. Events are now support for the memorial for a decade. the second time (more on the first later). Nations is almost as great as the policy Nations, the far-fetched dreams of I-1631 is scheduled to take place on Veterans Day, The memorial was commissioned by In other words, the first step in results. now state law – as well as a call to action to Nov. 11, 2022. Congress to recognize that Native Americans truly reconciling America with both its Besides the vetoed consent provisions Tribes nationwide to seize the moment, fill Officials at the National Museum of the have served in every major U.S. military mismanagement of the environment and its that are temporarily absent from the law, the the leadership vacuum, and help lead this American Indian made the announcement conflict since the Revolutionary War. The disrespect for Tribal sovereignty has been CCA contains two precedent setting policies country to urgently and aggressively fight May 21. memorial’s design was by Marine Corps taken in Washington State . . . over the first introduced in the tribally co-authored the challenge of climate change. “We look forward to welcoming you Vietnam veteran Harvey Pratt (Cheyenne objections of Governor Jay Inslee. I-1631 initiative: a mandate in law that 10% We know it’s not a matter of if, but in 2022 to the museum grounds to honor and Arapaho Tribes of Oklahoma). It features Despite supporting the consent of all carbon revenue go to Washington tribes when, tribes nationwide will accomplish the American Indian, Native Hawaiian, and an elevated stainless steel circle resting on provisions in the Climate Commitment because of the 10% of state lands directly impossible … again. Alaska Native veterans,” a statement read. a carved stone drum. It also incorporates Act [SB5126] when he needed Tribal governed by tribes, and mandated public Officials had previously marked the water for sacred ceremonies, benches for support to pass the bill in the Legislature, funding for the relocation projects for tribes Fawn Sharp is a human rights attorney memorial’s opening with a video dedication gatherings, and four lances where veterans, despite supporting it both in his presidential whose ancestral villages are being flooded who serves as the president of the National on Veterans Day last year. family members, tribal leaders and others can campaign and in the I-1631 initiative and rendered uninhabitable by sea level rise. Congress of American Indians and the The National Native American Veterans tie cloths to signify prayers and healing. campaign in 2018, Jay Inslee betrayed tribes As co-authors of both the policies that vice president of the Quinault Nation. She Memorial is the first memorial in Washington, Organizers have said they will share on May 16, 2021, by breaking his word and originated I-1631 initiative and the strategy served as the five-term president of the D.C., to honor Native American veterans. additional details about the events in 2022 vetoing all of the tribal consultation and that created them in negotiations, our goal Quinault Nation from 2006-2021. Matthew It is located on the grounds of the National through email updates and on its website. consent language out of the CCA. This was from the beginning was explicit: win or Randazzo V is a published author and Museum of the American Indian – part of the For more information, go to AmericanIndian. the same language his office, and his party, lose at the ballots in 2018, the previously former senior state environmental executive Smithsonian Institution. It is currently open si.edu or email [email protected]. negotiated and never objected to only weeks “radical” and “far-fetched” tribal policies who is President Sharp’s senior adviser and to the public 24 hours a day. before. negotiated into I-1631 would have to be represents and advises Tribal Nations. That’s exactly why the only thing Fawn supported by almost every institutional This article appears on indianz.com. Sharp and Donald Trump will ever agree on environmental nonprofit and Democratic is that Jay Inslee is a snake. Party politician in Washington State once it With this cowardly ambush, Inslee was on the ballot. Biden nominates Native American for District Court judge STAFF REPORT Washington. She would be the first Native since 2013. King is also an appointed of Virginia School of Law in 2008, and American federal judge in Washington State commissioner on the Washington State from the University of Washington, with WASHINGTON, D.C. — President history. Gambling Commission. She previously distinction, in 2004. Biden announced May 12 a group of King is a principal at Foster Garvey, taught Federal Indian Law at the Seattle She has been a member of the Muscogee judicial nominations, including Lauren P.C. based in Seattle, Washington, where University School of Law. Prior to joining (Creek) Nation Bar Association since 2015. King, a citizen of the Muscogee Nation in she has practiced since 2012. She chairs the Foster Garvey, King was an associate at She was recognized as a Native American Oklahoma. King was nominated for the U.S. firm’s Native American law practice group Byrnes Keller Cromwell LLP from 2010 40 Under 40 by the National Center for District Court for the Western District of and has served as a pro tem appellate judge to 2012 and at K&L Gates from 2008 to American Indian Enterprise Development in Lauren King for the Northwest Intertribal Court System 2009. King graduated from the University 2018.

The Seminole Tribune is a member of the The following deadlines apply to all Postmaster: Staff Reporter: Beverly Bidney, ext. 16466 Native American Journalists Association. submissions to The Seminole Tribune: Please send address changes to: [email protected] Correction The Seminole Tribune Letters/emails to the editor must be signed Issue: June 30, 2021 6365 Taft St. Staff Reporter: Damon Scott, ext. 10704 In the April 30, 2021, print edition of the and may be edited for publication. Deadline: June 16, 2021 Suite 1003 [email protected] Seminole Tribune the article “Artist teams up Hollywood, FL 33024 with Miccosukee Tribe for Miami exhibit” Subscription rate is $35 per year by mail. Issue: July 30, 2021 Advertising: Donna Mason, ext. 10733 stated that Felipe Mujica and Khadijah Make checks payable to: Deadline: July 14, 2021 Publisher: The Seminole Tribe of Florida [email protected] Cypress founded the Miccosukee Creativity The Seminole Tribune Center. Cypress, however, is the sole founder 6365 Taft Street Advertising rates along with sizes and other Phone: 954-985-5700 of the center. The Tribune regrets the error. Suite 1003 information may be downloaded online at: Senior Editor: Kevin Johnson, ext. 10715 © 2021 Seminole Tribe of Florida Hollywood, FL 33024 http://SeminoleTribune.org/Advertise [email protected] 3A • The Seminole Tribune • May 31, 2021 Community A Daniel Tommie presents Seminole culture to Audubon Society

BY BEVERLY BIDNEY Staff Reporter

“If you live within the laws of nature, you will have all you need,” Daniel Tommie told the Hendry-Glades chapter of the National Audubon Society. Nature and Tommie’s passion for Seminole culture were the underlying themes of an online presentation May 10, during which he shared his knowledge of the role of stories, birds and dugout canoes in Courtesy photo traditional Seminole culture. Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, is a popular tourist town in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. Tommie grew up in his Miccosukee grandparents’ camp in what is now the Everglades National Park. His grandfather Three tribes, including STOF, carried the medicine bundle, so people always came into their camp. His grandmother made sure everyone had something to eat, partner in Pigeon Forge hotel including turtle, ibis and deer. “I long for that love, unity and family,” BY KEVIN JOHNSON Courtesy photo Senior Editor each year. The town is 10 miles from the Tommie said. “That keeps me going. We are entrance to Smoky Mountains National Park, all struggling through the pandemic. The Daniel Tommie gives a presentation May 10 to the Hendry-Glades chapter of the Audubon Society. From Hollywood to Dollywood. which drew more than 12 million visitors in breath maker has been so good to me and 2020. my ancestors. During times of struggle and or for commerce. Smaller ones were for carving. One was about a woodpecker who The Seminole Tribe has entered into an investment partnership with two other tribes Dollywood, the sprawling amusement sacrifice and survival, we want learn and do hunting and gigging. During the Seminole tricked termites to leave the safety inside the park co-owned by Dolly Parton, also attracts what’s best for our people. We are on earth Wars, Abiaka and his warriors used small tree by telling them he wouldn’t eat them. in the development of a hotel in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. The well-known tourist millions of visitors annually. for a fraction of a second and are just one canoes to escape after leading U.S. soldiers Of course, the bird feasted when the termites “On behalf of the Tribal Council of the little speck in the vastness of the universe. It into a trap during the battle of Okeechobee. believed him. town is located in the foothills of the scenic Great Smoky Mountains and is home to the Seminole Tribe of Florida, I’m excited to makes me humble.” “I don’t consider myself an artist,” “There are a lot of hawks around here,” be part of this historic development, which Tommie told about a painting by Guy he said. “I just do what’s been done for Tommie said. “You can use them if you are Dollywood Theme Park. The Seminole Tribe, the Mississippi I am confident will continue to secure the LaBree titled “Sacrifice,” which shows a thousands of years. I’m a canoe builder now, hunting because they are usually looking for economic future of our Tribal Members scene during the Seminole Wars of a young nothing can stop me.” something to eat. Eagles fly the highest and Band of Choctaw Indians and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians have joined and drive economic prosperity for many mother making the ultimate sacrifice to save Surrounded by canoes, Tommie showed take our prayers since he gets closest to the years to come,” Seminole Tribe Chairman her family. She smothered her baby so the some early tools the Calusa used to carve creator. Anhingas are called “butt washers” with hotel developer DreamCatcher Hotels. DreamCatcher, which made the Marcellus W. Osceola Jr. said in a statement. nearby soldiers wouldn’t find them as they their canoes. One had a piece of a conch since they fly so close to the water.” “The Seminole Tribe has deep experience in hid in the Everglades. Seeing the painting shell attached to part of a tree branch, The stories are Seminole legends he announcement May 17, describes the hotel as “high-end, AAA-rated Four Diamond.” owning and operating hotels, and we are very left an indelible mark on him. another was a complete conch shell tied to has heard all his life, many told by his familiar with Pigeon Forge, a market that “That image is forever placed in my a larger branch. Both were adzes, which are grandfather, who he often thinks of while he “We are thrilled about our partnership with the Seminole Tribe of Florida, the attracts millions of vacationers, conventions, heart and my mind,” Tommie said. “That ancient tools with the blade perpendicular to is carving. weddings and athletic tournaments each baby had to be sacrificed so the whole family the handle instead of parallel to it. The blade “We need to hold those memories Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians,” year.” could survive. If it wasn’t for that baby, I of a modern adze is made from metal. and cherish them,” Tommie said. “My “The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians might not be here. That keeps me going in “The one with the piece of shell will grandfather told me the only time you should Zeke Cooper, president of DreamCatcher franchise development, said in a statement. are proud to partner with our sister tribes, the the direction I believe I am supposed to be help you clear a canoe,” Tommie said. “It’s be looking down on somebody is when you Seminole Tribe of Florida and the Mississippi going.” not sharp, but it can do the job. The one with are helping him up. I’m so blessed I had that “The Pigeon Forge property launches a new milestone in our company, opening as the Band of Choctaw Indians on this inaugural Tommie worked at Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki the large conch shell will cut down a tree.” from him.” project,” Principal Chief Richard Sneed of Museum before the pandemic as a traditional Tommie showed some of the canoes Tommie explained the matrilineal first hotel under our brand name. Our tribal partners share our bold vision of developing the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians said interpretive coordinator and built an he has carved over the last few years, one society of the Seminoles and that the mother in a statement. “It is our hope that this will authentic hunting camp, complete with pelts. is about 27 feet long. He likes to give the gives the clan to her children. and investing in unique and innovative hospitality properties, located in areas we be but one of many economic development While he was there, he began carving dugout canoes away and gave one to the senior projects our tribes can partner on, helping canoes to keep that tradition alive. He has center in Big Cypress, where he lives. know people want to visit. We are excited and humbled by their investment and trust. to secure the financial future of our tribes. been carving for about four years. “If you have a passion for it, it isn’t We are grateful for the opportunity as well Canoes are made from cypress trees work,” he said. F See CULTURE on page 4A Our goal is to create significant returns for each tribe’s members.” as the partnership with DreamCatcher as the and vary in size, depending on its function. Tommie told a few traditional stories project developer.” Larger ones were for transporting the family about the birds he has seen while outside Pigeon Forge has less than 6,000 residents, but it attracts millions of visitors F See PIGEON FORGE on page 4A

PROBLEM?

Discount effective May 1, 2021. Expires June 30, 2021.

SOLUTION:

GUY SELIGMAN, P.A. A t t o r n ey a t L a w 954.760.7600 4A • The Seminole Tribune • May 31, 2021

turned out for the groundbreaking, but stayed offer casino patrons a good, clean store to go Mississippi, and has her own cosmetic F TRADING POST in their cars and listened to the ceremony on to.” F MISS UNIVERSE business named Branch Beauty. From page 1A a dedicated FM radio site. From page 1A The Miss Universe Selection Committee “This is a source of community and was comprised of Miss Universe 1997 Brook About a dozen community members tribal pride,” Rep. Frank said. “And it will The women also spent time May 10 Lee; Miss Universe 2006 Zuleyka Rivera; working together to support Smile Train, an President of Carnival Cruise Line Christine international children’s charity that provides Duffy; chief marketing officer of Mary Kay training, funding and resources in developing Cosmetics Sheryl Adkins-Green; actor and countries for free cleft repair surgery and activist Arden Cho; the CEO of Live Tinted care. Deepica Mutyala; television host Keltie The United States was represented by Knight; and the CEO of Arena del Rio Aysa Branch, 23. She won the Miss USA Tatyana Orozco. competition last fall. She is from Booneville,

Beverly Bidney From left, Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee general manager Tony Alves, Big Cypress Councilman David Cypress, Immokalee Council Liaison Ray Garza, President Mitchell Cypress, Immokalee resident Jeanie Nelson, Big Cypress Board Rep Joe Frank, Immokalee resident Linda Beletso, Immokalee Board Liaison Rafael Sanchez and Hollywood Board Rep. Gordon "Ollie" Wareham officially break the ground for the Immokalee Trading Post on April 29.

Photo via Instagram Andrea Meza, the new Miss Universe, jams with a guitar at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood.

Beverly Bidney (2) At left, Immokalee Council Liaison Ray Garza speaks at the groundbreaking ceremony. At right, the floor plan of the interior of the trading post.

additional online and mobile games. a House committee. Photo via Instagram F COMPACT In closing the bill prior to the vote, Rep. Sports betting will be implemented Miss Universe contestants representing countries from around the world gather at Seminole Hard From page 1A Sam Garrison, R-Clay, said, “I’ve rarely through a “hub and spoke” model in which Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood in preparation for the competition. found an agreement where both sides get the tribe is the hub and the pari-mutuels what they want. Traditionally, if nobody are the spokes. The pari-mutuals must go “The breakdown of the 2010 compact loves it but everybody can live with it, through the hub to offer sports betting at has denied the state of Florida any revenue that’s an agreement worth moving forward their facilities. derived from the Seminole Tribe’s ongoing with. Thanks to the amendment brought Allen told the House Select Committee gaming operations – including what is the by the speaker and the governor and the on Gaming that the tribe is prepared to enter most profitable casino in the United States, tribe working together, I’m comfortable to into agreements for sports betting with pari- located in Hillsborough County. This encourage all my colleagues that this is an mutuals, per compact requirements. changes today,” DeSantis said in a statement. agreement we can live with and we should “When the tribe gives a $2.5 billion “With this new compact, the state will now ratify it.” guarantee to the state that these funds will see a large stream of reoccurring revenue to Jim Allen, CEO of Seminole Gaming be paid in the first five years, no matter what, the tune of billions of dollars over the next and Chairman of Hard Rock International, that is something the state can truly take to few years.” and attorney Joe Webster, outside counsel the bank,” Allen said. “Ten years ago we During the three-day special session, for the tribe, represented the tribe before offered a billion dollar guarantee. We not debate on the merits of the bill to ratify the committees in both chambers. only met that guarantee, we exceeded it.” compact went through various committees “We are here because the tribe sincerely The tribe’s relationship with the state in the House and Senate. After a logjam on wants to rekindle, restart the relationship earned praise from Rep. Ralph Massulo, the first day, the compact was amended to that it commenced with the state of Florida R-Citrus and Hernando. remove a clause which would have allowed in a compact environment back in 2007 and “We look at the parties involved and the tribe, after three years, to negotiate for the most recent compact in 2010,” Allen told I believe if we look at the past and how the tribe has treated the state, they have been extremely integrous; they have been extremely generous to the state,” Massulo said on the floor. Massulo said the compact will bring more than 2,000 jobs to the state. Prior to the vote in the House, Rep. Randy Fine, R-Brevard, chairman of the House Select Committee on Gaming, Photo via Instagram complimented the tribe. Nadia Sayers, Miss Ireland, shows off a flashy outfit “The Seminole Tribe worked hard on in front of the Guitar Hotel. this. They had nine more years they could have paid us nothing; I thank them for that,” Fine said to his colleagues. “This could be the most consequential vote you will make. This is a good deal for our state. In the casino business, the house always wins. I think if we pass this today, not only will the house win, but the people of Florida will win as Image via Florida Channel well.” Attorney Joe Webster, outside counsel for the tribe, speaks to the Senate Committee on Appropriations on May 17 in Tallahassee.

clouds, the moods, the expressions are all F CULTURE described in detail. You can only get that F PIGEON FORGE From page 3A through the native tongue. I was blessed to From page 3A get that from my grandparents.” “When the time was right for the clans During a question and answer period The property will feature 12,000 square to emerge out of the ground, the panther was after the presentation, a participant asked feet of meeting and convention space, a first in line, wind was second and bird was if young people are interested in learning rooftop restaurant and lounge, and 200 third,” Tommie said. “But panther couldn’t Seminole traditions and crafts. guest rooms. The hotel site is located near get his head through the crack in the ground, “I think so,” Tommie said. “Be the dining, shopping and excursion options. It so wind made it bigger and bird made it change you want to see. That’s what I’m is adjacent to the LeConte Center meeting wider. These three clans are as close as they doing, it’s my job to plant a seed with them. and event facility. Also nearby is the Ripken can be.” Before the pandemic, I had a couple of kids Experience, a baseball/softball complex Language is important in Seminole at the museum who wanted to learn to use that is home to camps and tournaments. Its culture because it isn’t just about sharing the adze. I hope that will be resparked after founders are the Ripken family, including information. the pandemic and they give it a shot.” Baseball Hall of Famer Cal Ripken Jr. “Language is vital to the experience The three tribes involved in the of an oral story,” Tommie explained. “The development have long been part of the NAYO and NASA youth and adult baseball, basketball and softball tournaments that are held annually.

Photo via Instagram Amanda Obdam, Miss Thailand, strikes a pose with the Guitar Hotel in the background. 5A • The Seminole Tribune • May 31, 2021

work or attend school, who receive services F WORKFORCE from the Children’s Center for Diagnostics From page 1A & Therapy ​​​or are in foster care. Students and After job well done, 4-H kids teachers will be required to wear masks. Amy Yzaguirre, Chairman’s special “We are looking forward to seeing the assistant, never really left the Immokalee kids and having them in the classroom,” treated to a day at the track office. Ford said. “I know the kids aren’t used to “The building was so quiet,” Yzaguirre wearing masks at home, but eventually they said. “It’s definitely good to see faces again. will get used to it since they will see teachers I’m glad to be back and have other people in wearing them.” the building. It’s a breath of fresh air. Over The biggest difference between working the last few weeks, more and more people at home and being back at school for Ford is have been popping in and out. It’s nice to mostly physical. When she goes home after catch up. I’m ready for the new normal.” a day at work, she is more exhausted and Aaron Tommie, CSSS advanced career goes to sleep a lot earlier than when she development participant, worked from home worked remotely. But she is glad to be back. exclusively since the tribe shut down last “It’s good to see everybody face to year and was a little nervous about going face again,” she said. “We had to get used back to the office. to virtual. Nobody knew it was something “I got comfortable with the routine we would ever have to do. Who thought at home,” Tommie said. “Now I feel when we had our spring break that we would rejuvenated. I’m a lot more active now that be told we couldn’t come back for over a I’m back. I’m back into the routine, but it year? There is no crystal ball to see what took a little adjustment.” the future is going to look like. The virus is Tommie works in the office three unpredictable and it threw us a curveball. days a week and from home the other two I miss my kids and am looking forward to days. How little he spent on gas during the them coming back. I’m sure once they get pandemic was a revelation to him when here they will be happy to be back.” he started commuting again. Before the Magdalie Dumorne, CSSS K-12 pandemic, he filled his tank every week; adviser, is back in her Immokalee office two during the pandemic he’d use just half a tank or three days a week and works from home in three weeks. the rest of the time. She can only see students “It made me realize how much we don’t in her office by appointment and continues need in life,” he said. “There is no need to to have virtual meetings with schools about always eat out. I cancelled our cable and the upcoming school year. All schools will spend more time reading and being more be fully open in the fall. active.” “Over the year, we kept in touch with Working from home also gave Tommie students through email,” Dumorne said. a lot more time to spend with his family; “Some kids couldn’t adjust to online school, he hadn’t realized how much time he spent but it worked out well for the more timid Kevin Johnson away from them between work and graduate students since they didn’t have to go on Now that their season caring for animals has finished, the kids from the 4-H program on the Hollywood Reservation were treated to a day of indoor karting school. He plans to continue making the campus. Some students made beautiful May 23 at F1 Speed in Hollywood. The event was organized by the Hollywood Council Office and included lunch. Nearly all of the kids raised swine to be time for them even though he is back in the gains with online school.” sold. Above, Daryn Tommie-James is focused as he prepares to go around a corner. office. Some schools may continue online “I’m really glad to be back, physically I classes, but Dumorne said others may not feel like I have more energy,” Tommie said. offer it unless a medical condition makes it “There’s something about putting on work necessary. clothes and going to work; it makes me feel “For most students, online school wasn’t good. I wasn’t going to the barber shop very good,” she said. “Some will have to do often, but now I go often to stay looking credit recovery. Some students lost traction, professional.” but the state has to promote them because Michelle Ford, Immokalee Preschool it wasn’t their fault. Those decisions are not Center manager, worked remotely through made by the districts, but by the state.” the pandemic, but came in periodically There will be challenges ahead for the as needed to give teachers supplies for new school year, but Dumorne is ready for their online classes. Since April 5, they it. She said the students are looking for a have thoroughly cleaned and rearranged more normal environment and she is too. the classrooms for the opening of summer “I love coming back to the office, I school June 7. needed to get out of the house,” Dumorne “We downsized how many toys we will said. “For me it’s a treat. I put on some put out, since they all need to be cleaned makeup, do my hair. That’s a plus for me.” throughout the day and sterilized at the end She also can’t wait to see the students in of the day,” Ford said. “We will downsize person. Dumorne recently saw a third grader enrollment during the summer for ages 2 to in the Immokalee library, but couldn’t give 5 only and the classrooms are limited to 10 her a hug. Instead they talked about the kids.” challenges of third grade. Someday soon, The preschool will only be available maybe that conversation can begin with a for students whose parents and caretakers long, lost hug.

Kevin Johnson CNN severs ties with Santorum following Jaiden Turtle (red shirt) and Sue Osceola race around the indoor track in Hollywood. comments about Native Americans

BY LEVI RICKERT Online late last month. Native News Online After hearing about the push back from Native Americans and even some CNN anchors who would not allow him on their CNN has fired Rick Santorum, its programs, Santorum said his words were conservative senior political correspondent, taken out of context. He never apologized almost a month after the former Pennsylvania for his remarks. U.S. senator and twice-failed presidential On May 22, NCAI released a candidate made disparaging comments about statement on Santorum's firing from Native Americans during an event on April CNN. The statement said NCAI President 23 at a Young America's Foundation event. Sharp applauds CNN's termination of its At the event, Santorum said the country contract with Santorum. Sharp says CNN's was set up based on Judeo-Christian decision upholds the network's profound principles, and that White settlers “birthed responsibility to cover racial discourse a nation from nothing. I mean, there was equitably and responsibly. nothing here,” he said, adding, “I mean, yes, "I am thrilled that CNN is ensuring that we have Native Americans, but candidly, justice is served," President Sharp said. "This there isn’t much Native American culture in was never a matter of if a decision would be American culture.” A video emerged days made; it was only a matter of when. I look later that was shared thousands of time on forward to continuing to be a resource for social media platforms. CNN as the network works to combat racist His comments drew the ire of Native and inaccurate narratives." Americans across Indian Country. Many President Sharp emphasized the Native Americans called for his immediate importance of partnerships with American firing; including in an op-ed on Native News Indian tribes, journalists, and media to Online. develop creative solutions that address “Rick Santorum is an unhinged and inaccurate portrayals of Indigenous peoples embarrassing racist who disgraces CNN and and Native erasure in the media. any other media company that provides him a platform,” National Congress of Americans Editor's note: For additional coverage Kevin Johnson Indians (NCAI) President Fawn Sharp wrote visit nativenewsonline.net. in a statement published by Native News Levi Tommie, the reserve champion in swine, picks up speed on a straightaway at F1 Speed. RichaRd castillo 954.522.3500 helping the seminole community For Many Years 24 houRs a daY Since 1990 I have protected rights like yours. My office defends DUIs, drug offenses, suspended licenses, domestic violence, and all felonies and misdemeanors throughout Florida and the United States. The hiring of an attorney is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertise- ment. Castillo worked as a Public Defender in Broward County from 1990-1996 and has been in private practice since 1996. In 1995, he was voted RIchaRD caStIllo the Trial Attorney of the year. He graduated from FloRIDa cRIMInal DeFenSe attoURney Capital University in 1989 and was admitted to the Florida Bar in 1990, Federal Bar in 1992, and the Fed- www.caStIllolawoFFIceS.coM eral Trial Bar in 1994. 6A • The Seminole Tribune • May 31, 2021 Hollywood Reservation celebrates Mother’s Day Drive-thru event held at Estates

Damon Scott Hollywood Councilman Chris Osceola helps distribute flowers to mothers at the Mother’s Day event.

Damon Scott With the Guitar Hotel in the background, vehicles line up for the Hollywood Mother’s Day drive-thru event May 4.

Damon Scott Damon Scott Damon Scott Bouquets of colorful flowers are ready to be handed out. Paul Buster provides musical entertainment for Malori Baker (seated) and Michelle Osceola helped hand out items to the mothers the Mother’s Day event.

Legacy of code talkers still STOFHERO.COM endures decades later CLIMATE RESILIENCE BY DAMON SCOTT represented among the code talkers – it’s the Navajo Staff Reporter who are the most famous with the largest representation. STRENGTH, COMMUNITY, The Navajo are also credited for helping the U.S. and its allies win the Pacific campaign. & SURVIVAL Native Americans from at least 37 tribes were “There was a need for secure and immediate represented in the U.S. military during World War I communications,” Meadows said. “It was needed to WHAT IS CLIMATE CHANGE? and World War II – numbering in the tens of thousands. solve a pressing issue at the time.” All around the world, people are noticing that the earth’s sensitive balance has been Each service member has a story, but it’s the legacy of thrown off. The planet is heating up, and we stand witness to glaciers melting, oceans The Germans were compromising U.S. military expanding, stronger storms and changing rainfall. the code talkers that continues to fascinate. communications. Phone lines could be tapped. One Most of the global warming we are seeing today is caused by pollution from burning It makes sense, as the code talkers program is one in four runners carrying messages were captured or fossil fuels, which thickens the greenhouse gas layer and traps heat within our of the most creative and uniquely Native American atmosphere. killed. Other methods of communication were too While some natural variation does exist, we have over 2,000 years of data that shows military contributions. Code talkers numbered in the slow or too hard to decode, Meadows explained. a direct relationship between the increase in carbon dioxide and the increase in global hundreds, from temperature. Just in the last 20 years, we have had the 10 hottest years on record. The code talkers Looking long-term, this is a very real and dangerous trend. about 420 Navajo, used specialized to tribes that had as WHAT DO WE KNOW? words or expressions HOW DOES CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACT ME? We cannot continue to ignore climate change. Just last year, the US had 22 weather few as two members for military items, “Some areas around where I grew up are dry when they were normally holding water.” and climate disasters that each cost more than $1 billion dollars in damage. People out west suffered a major drought and heatwave, and California had the most active in the program. – Pete Osceola III usually based on wildfire year on record. In the mid-west, tornadoes and derechos downed power lines, The code animals or everyday “I believe we are already experiencing stronger storms, extreme temperature changes damaged houses and flattened crops. Here in the southeast, a record 12 tropical talkers assisted during the seasons. The summer’s just keep getting hotter and hotter, and with Texas storms made landfall, and forecasters had to turn to the Greek alphabet because they life. For example, ran out of names on the list. In total, these 22 events cost $95 Billion in damages. U.S. Armed Forces freezing over I believe the storms are only going to get worse.“ in Choctaw, “tushka – Kathlyn Jo Anderson We must look to the future. As we see 1 in a 100 year and 1 in a 1,000 year storms through the wars by chipota,” means happing in our communities every few years, we know we cannot continue to transmitting secret “Flooding is really bad in parts of Broward and Miami-Dade Counties.“ set standards that use historic trends to build our homes and buildings. These “warrior soldier,” – Aaron Tommie assumptions are no are no longer realistic, and new criteria is needed to plan our communications communities into the future. Raising design standards will protect assets, revenue, and and was code for most importantly, lives. during military “soldier.” In Navajo, battles and Warmer oceans and Extreme heat is a public health “atsa” means “eagle” atmosphere creates issue, increasing the risk of campaigns using and was code for stronger storms. cardiovascular disease, respiratory tribal languages. “transport plane.” illness and heat stroke. It was a code In Hopi, “paaki” Rising temperatures system that was dry out soils and Changing rainfall patterns are mean “houses on vegetation, increasing giving us less rainfall overall, never broken and water,” which was the risk of wildfire meaning a longer dry season for helped save the code for “ship.” farmers and ranchers. lives of countless And in Comanche Americans and “wakaree’e” means Flooding and storm surge may be a significant climate concern for Hollywood, allies. “turtle,” which was Tampa, and Fort Pierce. Sea Level is predicted to rise 2.5 feet in the next 50 The years in South Florida. This can cause salt-water intrusion and raise ground- code for “tank.” water levels, which threatens drink water supply and reduces the soil’s capacity Smithsonian to absorb rainfall. As we know, when we finally get rain it is a downpour, which “It worked is hard for our drainage systems to handle. Institution’s because to the National Museum Germans it was an Extreme heat may be a significant climate concern for Big Cypress, Brighton, Climate change is a force multiplier. Because of the American and Immokalee. These inland reservations have about 40-60 days each year of obscure language, it exacerbates weather, inequality, and all temperatures over 95 degrees, which is considered extreme heat. That number Indian (NMAI) other environmental and social issues, climate largely unwritten will double by midcentury, and by the end of the century, residents will have to took note of their change is not just one problem - it is a thousand and not based on deal with extreme heat for half the year! influence and the problems. The global changes we are seeing have mathematical code deeply personal and local impacts, and we must public’s ongoing Images via NMAI collection principals, not all work together to identify solutions and build interest during Native American code talkers still capture the public’s imagination and climate resilience into not only our infrastructure, based on European but also our social fabric and daily lives. an online event the focus of researchers to this day. languages or May 19. Author, syntax, and harder WHAT DO WE DO ABOUT IT? anthropologist and to compare for In 2020, the Seminole Tribe of Florida launched a Climate Resiliency Program to historian William C. Meadows of Missouri State understand and address the multiple risks climate change poses to the Tribe’s land, similarities,” Meadows said. property, and people. The program’s goals are to: University, and Alexandra Harris, NMAI senior editor Meadows has written five books about Native • Coordinate research on the immediate and long-term impacts of climate change, and coauthor of “Why We Serve: Native Americans American veterans – his latest is “The First Code • Engage with Tribal members to inform program development, and in the United States Armed Forces” hosted the event. • Provide recommendations to leadership on how to protect the assets of the Talkers: Native American Communicators in World Seminole Tribe and build greater resilience for the entire community. Harris said one of the great ironies of the success War I.” He’s studied code talkers since 1989 and has of the code talkers is that at the time the program Our first step is to collectively develop a Climate Action Plan. also been an advocate for their federal recognition, Tribal members will be at the heart of goal setting and prioritization of actions. This is began in World War I, the U.S. military was intensely helping to pass the Code Talkers Recognition Act of a vital process of relationship building and visioning that will guide subsequent action targeting Indian boarding schools for recruitment. 2008. and investment, and all are welcome to join in the conversation! But many of the superintendents of the schools were The Seminole Tribe of Florida can become a leader in climate change planning for Some of the earliest documented code talkers Tribal nations around the world, by promoting climate resiliency strategies that utilize actively trying to erase Native languages, often with were Ho-Chunk, Eastern Band of Cherokee, Choctaw, both western-based science and traditional ecological knowledge. Together, we can harsh punishments if students were caught speaking Tribal Members are most concerned about: protect future generations, repair a broken system of relationships, and heal the land Cherokee Nation, Osage Nation and Sioux and Loss of Traditional Plants, Rising Energy Costs/Unreliable Service, and Extreme Heat & Cold. and ecosystems we depend on. in their tongue. And yet it is precisely those Native Comanche Nation. In World War II, the Oneida- languages that made the code talkers program possible Chippewa, Comanche, Meskwaki, Hopi and Navajo at all, she said. About one-third of recruits at the time emerged in the program. There were many others. For more information, and to get involved, reach out to: were not considered U.S. citizens either. Chester Nez was the last of an original 29 Navajo Jill Horwitz - STOF Climate Resiliency Officer: [email protected] code talkers. He died in 2014. Cody Motlow - STOF Sustainability Coordinator: [email protected] Problem solvers UNITY SELF-DETERMINATION SERVICE INTEGRITY SUSTAINABILITY TRANSFORMATIONAL While many tribes and Native languages were 7A • The Seminole Tribune • May 31, 2021 Guitar smash marks birth of Hard Rock Casino Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana Cincinnati to be Property pays homage to hometown Jackson 5 unveiled this summer

BY DAMON SCOTT Staff Reporter BY DAMON SCOTT Staff Reporter Seminole Tribe Chairman Marcellus W. Osceola Jr., Hollywood Councilman Chris Hard Rock officials in Cincinnati have Osceola, Hard Rock and local officials, and a been busy hiring employees as they prepare slew of famous musicians gathered in Gary, to unveil the complete rebrand of an Ohio Indiana, May 14 and May 15 to open a new casino. casino. A deal was struck in 2019 between Hard The Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana, Rock International and VICI Properties for located 30 miles from Chicago, celebrated the $745 million purchase of the JACK its grand opening with a weekend’s worth of Cincinnati Casino. Part of the deal includes events. The traditional guitar smash featured that the casino is leased to the Hard Rock. 20 participants, including Chairman Osceola, The intention was to transform the Courtesy image Councilman Osceola, casino president Matt property into the Hard Rock Casino The new Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati will include Schuffert and brothers Tito and Marlon Cincinnati. a Hard Rock Cafe. Jackson of the Jackson 5. The JACK Cincinnati Casino first “We love the opportunity to change opened in 2013 and featured 100,000 square Hotel, but we wanted to get through phase one lives,” Chairman Osceola told the crowd. feet of gaming space with about 1,800 [of the rebranding] first,” he told the Courier. “We created another 700 jobs here with gaming machines and 100 table games. “In parallel, we’re doing our research on this facility. When the second phase comes Additionally, the property had 33,000 square what type of hotel, size, amenities.” up, we’ll create even more jobs for more feet of meeting space, six restaurants and Covid-19 curfew restrictions were people and their families, and the countless Guy Rhodes two bars. lifted in February and the rebranding efforts secondary jobs that are created…” The iconic red jacket from Michael Jackson’s “Beat It” video is on display on the gaming floor at Hard Phase one of a rebranding effort began began in earnest once again. A Rock Shop The first comments from Gary Mayor Rock Casino Northern Indiana in Gary, Indiana. Beside it are his famous Swarovski crystal glove and after the deal was made but was significantly opened in April and a Hard Rock Café – Jerome Prince at the ceremony were directed his Florsheim Imperial shoes. slowed by the pandemic, which hit all U.S. with a stage and dance floor for live music to Chairman Osceola and Councilman casino operations hard. events – is nearing completion, too. The Osceola. In Ohio, casinos were mandated to close rebrand includes a Council Oak restaurant “Thank you to you and your tribe for from March 13, 2020, through June 19, and Hard Rock memorabilia will be featured everything that you’ve done for the city and 2020. When allowed to reopen, there were throughout the property. everything that you’ll do in the future,” he restrictions on alcohol sales and mandatory “One of the most important symbolic said. curfews. things we did was in January when we pulled The $300 million casino includes a In November 2020, for example, there up the old carpet … that was installed in huge gaming space, five restaurants, an was a statewide curfew which required the 2013 and made way for this beautiful new onsite sports book, retail shop and a 1,954- casino to close at 10 p.m. Hard Rock Casino carpet that’s the Hard Rock standard that seat Hard Rock Live performance venue. Cincinnati’s president George Goldhoff told you’d find everywhere from Atlantic City to The 150,000-square-foot casino floor has the Cincinnati Business Courier recently Hollywood,” Goldhoff told the Courier. blackjack, roulette, craps, slot machines and that at the time, the casino had to start the Goldhoff said he expects to host a video poker. There is also a special baccarat process of closing even earlier to make sure grand opening event to officially unveil the area and a high limit room. customers were gone by 10 p.m. rebranding and new amenities sometime in Jackson 5 memorabilia – the group “That affected us in a big way,” he said. July. also includes brothers Jackie, Jermaine “We do a lot of our business in the evening The Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati and Michael – are featured throughout the time.” is located on 22 acres in the Broadway property. The memorabilia features outfits Goldhoff said several projects at the Commons area of the city’s downtown worn on stage by family members, including property were paused, including work on a district. The Seminole Tribe of Florida is the Janet Jackson’s suit from her Velvet Rope Hard Rock Hotel. parent entity of Hard Rock International. tour, Michael’s iconic glove and the red “We still have plans to do a Hard Rock leather jacket from the “Beat It” music video – one of the most recognizable pieces Image via ABC7 of fashion in music history. The Jackson Chairman Marcellus W. Osceola Jr. is interviewed by Chicago TV station ABC7 during the grand collection totals more than 30 pieces. The opening of the Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana on May 14 in Gary, Indiana. Jackson’s childhood home is located just miles from the casino. In all, there are more than 170 pieces of is modeled after one of (father) Joseph The Hard Rock Casino Northern music memorabilia on display representing a Jackson’s guitars, as well as a unique guitar Indiana is located at 5400 West 29th Ave. wide range of musical genres. chandelier that guests see upon entering the The Seminole Tribe is the parent entity of The casino also features a 37-foot-tall casino. Hard Rock International. guitar marquee outside the entrance, which Phase two is expected to include a hotel and parking garage.

Hard Rock via Facebook A ceremony welcomes the opening of the Rock Shop in Cincinnati on April 12.

Q1 revenue raises hope for U.S. casinos

BY DAMON SCOTT The AGA said gains in gaming revenue Staff Reporter were largely driven by the industry’s performance in March, the highest- First-quarter revenue for commercial grossing revenue month in history for U.S. casinos in the U.S. has owners and operators commercial gaming. More than half of states optimistic that the industry has begun to with commercial casinos saw quarterly Hard Rock wake up from the knockout punch it took gaming revenue increases over the first from the pandemic. The traditional Hard Rock guitar smash takes place for the opening of the Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana on May 14 in Gary, Indiana. In the front row quarter of 2019, with several states reporting Commercial gaming revenue surpassed record quarters. at far left are Chairman Marcellus W. Osceola Jr. and Hollywood Councilman Chris Osceola. In the back row at the far right are Jackson 5 brothers Tito and $11 billion in the first quarter of 2021, Marlon Jackson “Today’s report shows gaming’s matching a previous all-time high that was comeback is ahead of schedule,” AGA achieved in the third quarter of 2019 – just president and CEO Bill Miller said in months before the pandemic forced casinos a statement. “Throughout the Covid-19 to close in March of 2020. pandemic, our industry has faced numerous Hard Rock Atlantic City plans to The American Gaming Association challenges head-on while still reopening (AGA), the casino industry’s national trade responsibly and providing a safe, exciting group, released the figures May 11. environment for customers.” Casinos regulated by state gaming Thirty states (including Florida) and spend $20M in upgrades compacts and/or the National Indian Gaming the District of Columbia had operational Commission are excluded from the report. commercial gaming markets in the first BY DAMON SCOTT City, said in a statement. However, commercial casinos that are owned quarter of 2021, including casino gaming, Staff Reporter The Seminole Tribe is the parent entity or operated by tribal gaming companies are sports betting and iGaming. of Hard Rock International. included. Seminole Gaming is a member of By the end of the first quarter, 454, or The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic The former Trump Taj Mahal property the AGA. 97.8%, of 464 commercial casinos in the City is poised to see a $20 million upgrade at opened in 2018. It features 2,000 rooms, 20 The first-quarter 2021 revenue total U.S. were open. While some states had its sprawling oceanfront property. restaurants, a 120,000-square-foot gaming represents a 4.1% increase over the returned to full capacity, most U.S. casinos Officials said May 3 that the company floor, 2,200 slot machines and 125 table industry’s pre-pandemic performance in the were still operating with capacity restrictions would “reinvest a minimum of $20 million” games. It includes a 400-seat Hard Rock first quarter 2019 and is a 17.7% increase ranging from 25% to 75%, according to the in capital improvements at the New Jersey Café and 150,000 square-feet of event space. over the first quarter of 2020. In addition, AGA. site. Officials said the bulk of the $20 million revenue from the first quarter of 2021 is up More is at americangaming.org. Improvements include hotel suite would go toward renovating 91 hotel suites – 21.1% over the fourth quarter of 2020. renovations, a new Starbucks, more slots and 66 “Celebrity suites” and 25 “Roxy suites.” table games, a new restaurant and a “refresh The suite renovations are being designed of beachfront amenities.” by Klai Juba Wald Architecture + Interiors. Fabian, Avalon, Rydell to perform in Immokalee The Starbucks is expected to open in late All standard hotel rooms have also been May, located adjacent to the Hard Rock Café upgraded with new flat screen television FROM PRESS RELEASE These “Golden Boys” were three of the most with boardwalk access. The new restaurant monitors and LED lighting, officials said. popular teen idols of the 1950s and 1960s. is expected to be unveiled and open this The additional slots and table games IMMOKALEE — Frankie Avalon, The Golden Boys concert spotlights summer. will be located in the “Asian” and “High Fabian and Bobby Rydell will perform their each of the performers and their all-time The timeline on other projects was not Limit” areas of the casino, as well as the timeless hits live in concert at Seminole greatest hits: “Turn Me Loose,” “Tiger” immediately disclosed. main casino floor and cage areas. Casino Hotel Immokalee on March 4, 2022, and “I’m A Man” (Fabian); “Venus,” “De “The commitment of these capital The upgrades to beachfront amenities at 8 p.m. with doors opening at 7 p.m. De Dinah” and “Bobby Sox to Stockings” dollars from our ownership proves their include new restrooms and 1,000 beach Advance tickets are on sale now for $129 (Avalon); and “Volare,” “Wild One” and devotion to enhancing our guest experience, chairs at the Hard Rock Beach Bar. and are available by phone at 1-800-514- “Kissin’ Time” (Rydell). The three stars along with the revitalization of Atlantic City Additionally, “sound enhancements” ETIX or online at www.moreinparadise. combine their talents on several songs and and our property which opened after a $500 are being done to both the Hard Rock Live com. Attendees must be 21 years of age. Beverly Bidney perform a tribute to the material of Elvis million renovation less than three years ago,” at Etess Arena as well as the Sound Waves Fabian, Frankie Avalon and Bobby Presley, Bobby Darin, Rick Nelson and Bill Joe Lupo, president of Hard Rock Atlantic venue. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City. Rydell were united by producer Dick Fox. Haley. 8A • The Seminole Tribune • May 31, 2021

Seminole art in Disney World

BY AH-TAH-THI-KI MUSEUM STAFF bags, sashes, and dolls have been on display eight on display. They worked with Walt for the park’s millions of annual visitors to Disney Imagineering's curator Deb Van learn about. Horn, who oversees “Creating Tradition” BIG CYPRESS — The Ah-Tah- Twice a year, the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki and other exhibits at Epcot. She helped install Thi-Ki Museum continues to share the Museum works with Epcot’s staff to swap the four dolls, a dress, and a bigshirt that will Seminole story at Disney’s Epcot theme out the objects, allowing us to share more be on display for the next six months. park by loaning objects for the exhibit of the collection and, therefore, more of the The six objects are a mix from the past “Creating Tradition: Innovation and Change Seminole story. Rotating objects also ensures and present. The oldest object is an early in American Indian Art” located in the their safety by limiting the amount of time 20th century female doll carved out of wood, American Heritage Gallery at the front of the they are exposed to potentially damaging which signals its age since dolls are no longer American Adventure pavilion. The exhibit conditions such as dust and light. made of wood. Also now on display is a male that opened in 2018 represents 40 American In April, the museum’s conservator doll from the 1930s that, unlike the female Indian tribes and focuses on how ancestral Robin Croskery Howard and registrar doll, is made of palmetto fiber. They are craftsmanship inspires contemporary art. Chelsea Nielsen served as couriers, both wearing traditional clothing; the female Seminole handiworks such as bandolier transporting six objects to rotate with the a cape and skirt and the male a turban and

Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum’s conservator Robin Croskery Howard preparing the boy’s bigshirt for display.

bigshirt, which remains a common feature in 1990. Part of the dress is cotton like the among Seminole dolls. What distinguishes bigshirt, but it is also made of synthetic these two from contemporary dolls are their metallic fiber. This metal-coated plastic is a noses, which dolls today tend to lack. modern material that distinguishes the dress Next to the older dolls is one made from earlier clothing. A continuity between by Minnie Doctor and another by Mabel the bigshirt and dress is patchwork. Colorful Osceola dating to the late 1990s. Doctor’s bands of patchwork remain popular features palmetto fiber doll is a mother with a baby on clothing though new designs have arisen. on her back, while Osceola’s palmetto fiber The objects now displayed in the doll is a woman holding a pestle next to a Creating Traditions exhibit demonstrate mortar. She’s posed as if ready to grind corn how ancestral craftsmanship inspires to make the traditional food sofkee. Both contemporary art. They also show how dolls are dressed in traditional capes, skirts, styles have expanded and changed, making and beaded necklaces, so though the dolls are it clear to visitors that the vibrant Seminole contemporary they celebrate longstanding culture thrives today. In six months, we will practices. rotate the objects with ones that similarly Accompanying the dolls in the display celebrate past and present artisanship. We case is a boy’s bigshirt and a girl’s dress. hope that the park’s millions of visitors will The bigshirt dating to the 1950s has many enjoy the beautiful pieces and be inspired to rows of applique, a decorative detail that learn more about Seminole culture. grew in popularity during the 20th century. Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum Its vibrant blue fabric stands out next to A map that uses lights and audio to highlight the seven regions across the United States that are represented in the exhibit by Indigenous art. the red fabric of the dress Annie Jim made Miami artist influenced by diverse heritage

“The space reflects Carter’s connections ‘The Carter to Afrofuturism and the Japanese wabi-sabi aesthetic, which embraces imperfections,” a statement from the NSU Art Museum said. Project’ now at “Its design evokes a Northern California loft ideal whose carbon footprint-reducing NSU Art Museum structures were constructed with industrial and reclaimed materials, including six used shipping containers that house some living BY DAMON SCOTT areas and art production studios.” Staff Reporter Visitors to the exhibition can expect to see the multiuse structures through videos, photography, drawings and “augmented FORT LAUDERDALE — A new reality features.” exhibition at the NSU Art Museum in Fort “We hope that ‘The Carter Project’ will Lauderdale features a Miami-based artist. inspire others to question conventions and “The Carter Project” opened May 15 imagine new solutions to living in today’s and runs through Jan. 9, 2022. environment,” NSU Art Museum director Christopher Carter began the project and chief curator Bonnie Clearwater said. in 2016 when he developed a unique plan Carter was born in Albuquerque, for a home, studio and exhibition space. Carter Project New Mexico, and was raised in Boston, Carter Project Carter wanted an ecologically sensitive Christopher Carter’s heritage includes African Massachusetts. His online biography says Carter’s unique spaces are located in Miami. environment – one that would “serve as a American, Native American and European. his work is infused by a blend of ethnic and living laboratory” for his design and artistic urban influences. “Carter’s bold and organic projects. He completed it in 2020. It’s located sculptures strongly reflect his African fairs, and is included in private and public More information is at thecarterproject. in Miami’s north Wynwood district. most comprehensive functional structure I American, Native American and European collections including the National Museum miami and christophercarter.art. The NSU Carter said that during the design ever dreamed to make.” heritage,” his biography states. of African American History and the Art Museum is located at One East Las and construction, he followed a common Carter uses recycled woods, metals, Carter’s work has been featured in Smithsonian National Museum of African Olas Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale. More is at process that he would use when creating his glass, resins and other discarded objects in many museum exhibitions, galleries and art American History & Culture – both located nsuartmuseum.org. sculptures. He describes it as “the largest, his work. in Washington, D.C. NMAI showcases work of photojournalist Donovan Quintero FROM PRESS RELEASE photojournalist Donovan Quintero (Navajo). The photo essay also features an audio the Farmington Daily Times, both in New Tailyr Irvine (Salish and Kootenai). The photo essay explores how the pandemic interview between Quintero and Cécile Mexico. He has covered the pandemic since “Developing Stories: Native affected the everyday lives of the Diné over Ganteaume, the exhibition’s curator. it first struck the reservation in March 2020. Photographers in the Field” is a series of photo The Smithsonian’s National Museum the course of a year. The images highlight the Quintero was born and raised on the In addition to Quintero’s work, essays created by Native photojournalists in of the American Indian released the third resilience of the Diné and the critical roles Navajo Nation reservation. Since 2005, he “Developing Stories: Native Photographers collaboration with the National Museum of installment of its online exhibition series played by tribal council members, police, has worked for the Navajo Times covering in the Field” includes the photo essays “The the American Indian. “Developing Stories: Native Photographers health-care workers and other unsung heroes news, sports and feature stories. He served Genízaro Pueblo of Abiquiú” by Russel For more information visit in the Field” on May 18. of the pandemic. The essay concludes with in the U.S. Navy and traveled widely before Albert Daniels (Diné descent and Ho-Chunk americanindian.si.edu. “The Covid-19 Outbreak in the Navajo the rollout of the vaccines and Diné prayers returning to his roots. Quintero got his start descent) and “Reservation Mathematics: Nation” is a series of 44 images created by for the future. in journalism at the Gallup Independent and Navigating Love in Native America” by Trail of Tears mural unveiled in Arkansas

Museum of Native American History via Facebook Artist Johnnie Diacon created a three-panel mural installation for the Museum of Native American History in Bentonville, Arkansas, that depicts the Trail of Tears. The work was unveiled on the south exterior wall of the museum May 8. Diacon is an enrolled member of the Mvskoke (Creek) Nation of Oklahoma, the Raprakko Etvlwa (Thlopthlocco Tribal Town) and he is Ecovlke (Deer Clan). He studied the flat style of Indian painting under master artist Ruthe Blalock Jones (Delaware/Shawnee/Peoria) at Bacone College in Muskogee, Oklahoma. 9A • The Seminole Tribune • May 31, 2021 Health Tribe to host Covid-19 CBH mental health event vaccine drive emphasizes: 'You are not alone'

BY DAMON SCOTT 1,980. BY BEVERLY BIDNEY Staff Reporter On May 13, the U.S. Centers for Staff Reporter Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said that fully vaccinated people no longer had to BIG CYPRESS — Since 1949, HOLLYWOOD — In an effort to wear masks indoors, except in hospitals, on May has been observed as Mental Health increase the Covid-19 vaccination rate public transit and in other specified places. Awareness Month. The 2021 theme for the among members of the Seminole Tribe, the The CDC had already lifted its requirement month was “You are not alone.” Health and Human Services department for wearing masks outdoors. However, The Center for Behavioral Health’s (HHS) is set to host a vaccine drive. Kiswani-Barley said the tribe would, at Native Connections program sponsored a Dr. Vandhana Kiswani-Barley, the least for the time being, require masks in all drive-thru event May 24 in Big Cypress, executive director of HHS, said the drive tribal buildings “to ensure the safety of our Brighton, Hollywood and Immokalee and would take place at all of the tribe’s vulnerable population.” distributed 200 wellness kits. The department reservations from June 1 to June 4. The staff from the tribe’s Public Safety sent out daily mental health tips every day in She said hosting a drive is important department will help administer the shots May to promote good mental health. because as of late May less than 25% of the during the vaccine drive. “You aren’t alone if you are experiencing tribal community had been fully vaccinated. “We’re encouraging all individuals to mental health challenges,” said Erin Kashem, For comparison, the state of Florida has fully call [their respective health] clinics to get Native Connections program manager. “It’s vaccinated about 38% of its population. The screened to receive the vaccine,” she said. a lot more common than you think. One in number of people requesting the vaccine Kiswani-Barley said anyone 12 years five will experience it in their lifetime. We from HHS had begun to decline in April. and older is eligible to receive the vaccine. don’t talk about it, so the biggest support is “We have a little over 1,000 individuals, Eligibility had previously been for those to have those around you know about it. We tribal and members of the community 16 and older. The tribe has three vaccines want to reduce the stigma often attached to tribalwide, who have received at least one available – Moderna, Pfizer and Johnson & it.” Beverly Bidney dose of the vaccine,” Kiswani-Barley said. Johnson. In addition to promoting mental health A message drawn onto a car window with a chalk marker emphasizes self-worth regardless of mental Seminole Tribe of Florida employees Those who want to receive the vaccine initiatives, the program focuses on suicide health challenges. have received 774 vaccines and Seminole can call the HHS hotline at (833) 786-3458 and substance abuse for tribal youth up to Gaming employees in Florida have received for more information. age 24. The Big Cypress-based program has been operational since 2019. Wellness kits were distributed at the drive thru event, which included a journal and everything necessary to create a “calm down jar,” including a jar, glue and glitter. Food coloring could also be added. Participants added water to create the sparkly jar, which IHS starts ‘Nurse of the has a calming effect as the glitter floats and moves through the glue and water mixture. The wellness kit also had a list of simple Month’ program exercises to help achieve calmness. One was to take 10 slow, deep breaths, notice the lungs filling and then emptying while letting the FROM PRESS RELEASE - Nurses employed within the Indian mind wander. After the breathing exercises, Health Service, tribal sites and urban clinics it suggested to look around the room and The division of nursing services at - Nurses must be actively involved in notice what you saw, heard, smelled and felt. Indian Health Service has started a “Nurse any nursing specialty or nursing role An information sheet included in the of the Month” recognition program for - Time frame covers the past calendar wellness kit stated that journaling, or writing all nurses across the IHS, tribal and urban year down thoughts and feelings to understand Indian organization health system. The Nomination narrative must include one them more clearly, can help manage program, which was announced in May, will of the following: emotions and improve mental health. highlight nurses, including registered nurses, - Major achievement(s) in the nominee’s Writing something every day can help to advanced practice nurses, LPNs, and others primary clinical or administrative nursing identify what causes stress and provide an specialty or role who are committed to providing quality outlet for expression. Beverly Bidney - Contributions to the enhancement of healthcare through nursing. A pamphlet that was distributed offered Erin Kashem, CBH Native Connections program manager, gives a wellness kit to a participant in its Big The program will feature an individual the nursing profession through innovation, tips on how to start a conversation about Cypress drive-thru event May 25. each month who has been nominated and will facilitation of change, and/or the use of mental health. First, a person should identify be celebrated as the “Nurse of the Month” evidence-based practice. someone he or she is comfortable opening through various IHS digital platforms. For more information about the up to and who they know will listen. Tips Nominations are due by the 15th of each nomination process visit ihs.gov/nursing/ for a successful conversation include finding month for that month. nurseofthemonth/. information online that might help to The nomination criteria is: explain things easier, expect questions, and understand that the conversation might feel awkward at first. The pamphlet explained that by opening up and sharing something so personal, it can Research shows kidney cancer feel like a weight has been lifted. The other person in the conversation may have some personal experience with those feelings as risks higher for Hispanics, well, which will make both parties feel less alone. Native Americans in Arizona Conversely, the person may not understand and may not react in a positive way. According to information in the BY UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA HEALTH SCIENCES disparities in kidney cancer mortality risk pamphlet, sometimes people just need time cannot be explained by delays in treatment. to process information. The researchers utilized state data to Regardless of the outcome, the Recently published research from the organize Hispanic Americans into various conversation is the first step in a process University of Arizona Health Sciences shows subgroups, including U.S.-born Mexican of healing. Mental health challenges are that advanced-stage kidney cancer is more Americans. They determined this group to common and treatable, but it may take trying Beverly Bidney common in Hispanic Americans and Native have a three-times-higher risk of mortality a few different methods before finding the Adis Padron, CBH clinical therapist, writes uplifting messages on the window of a vehicle at the Big Americans than in non-Hispanic whites, and compared with non-Hispanic white one that will work. Cypress CBH drive thru to promote Mental Health Awareness Month. that both Hispanic Americans and Native Americans. National cancer statistics do not Every year millions of people struggle Americans in Arizona have an increased risk break down subgroups within the general with mental health issues. One of the of mortality from the disease. Hispanic population; thus risks to U.S.-born goals of the program is to fight the stigma, and interested in promoting healing in the those pieces together that are in place and "We knew from our past research that Mexican Americans living in Arizona may provide support, educate the public and help community,” Kashem said. “Historical building on that resiliency.” Hispanic Americans and Native Americans be understated in national reporting. individuals learn to manage their mental trauma has contributed to various challenges To get involved, contact Erin Kashem have a heavier burden of kidney cancer than Dr. Batai attributes the discrepancy health challenges. and we want to address that. The strength at [email protected] or (863) 902- non-Hispanic whites," said Ken Batai, Ph.D., in national versus state data to the data- “We would welcome participation of is in the community and the knowledge is 3200 x13262. a Cancer Prevention and Control Program collection process. The National Cancer tribal members who are passionate about there. This program is about connecting research member at the UArizona Cancer Database relies on hospital-based reporting, Center and research assistant professor of whereas the state registry is population- urology in the College of Medicine—Tucson. based. Many small hospitals and clinics in National "But we also know that around 90% of the rural settings may not report to the National Hispanic population in Arizona is Mexican Cancer Database, which could explain the Indian American—either U.S.-born or Mexican- misrepresentation of Hispanic Americans in Council on born—and we do not think this subgroup is Arizona. well-represented in the national data." "To this point, there has been no Aging to hold With funding from the National Cancer research documenting this disparity in Institute, Dr. Batai led a team of UArizona Hispanic Americans," Dr. Batai said. "This conference Cancer Center researchers that examined can be very useful information to share with The National Indian data from the National Cancer Database primary care providers and urologists who Council on Aging will hold and the Arizona Cancer Registry to look for may not yet be aware." its American Indian Elders disparities in surgical treatment of kidney "Carefully documenting these Conference from Aug. 1 to cancer. They also investigated the possibility disparities is something that distinguishes Aug. 6 at the Nugget Casino that delayed treatments may result in us as a comprehensive cancer center," Resort in Reno, Nevada. advanced-stage kidney cancer, which has said Joann Sweasy, Ph.D., Cancer Center The conference's theme is been associated with high mortality rates in director and inaugural holder of the Nancy “Resilience for Tomorrow… Hispanic Americans and Native Americans. C. and Craig M. Berge Endowed Chair. "Dr. Together.” The paper, "Renal Cell Carcinoma Batai is embedded in our center not only The conference is the only Health Disparities in Stage and Mortality in prevention, but he is also a part of our national aging conference among American Indians/Alaska Natives genitourinary clinical research team. This in the country focusing and Hispanic Americans: Comparison of research benefits both perspectives, which exclusively on the needs of National Cancer Database and Arizona are critical for us to meet the needs of our American Indian and Alaska Cancer Registry Data," was published in the patients." Native elders. It will offer journal Cancers. The research could drive further the opportunity to elevate The study found that Arizona's Hispanic investigation into why Arizona's Hispanic issues in American Indian Americans are about two times more likely and Native American populations face politics and legislation, and than non-Hispanic white people to have increased risks from kidney cancer. focus on issues such as health, advanced-stage kidney cancer and have "We know these populations also have safety, financial management, nearly a two-times-higher risk of mortality higher prevalence of diabetes and blood elder abuse, caregiving, from early-stage kidney cancer. Similarly, pressure, both of which are risk factors for employment, retirement and Native Americans are about 30% more likely kidney cancer," Dr. Batai said. "While we the Older Americans Act. to have advanced-stage kidney cancer and continue to explore differences in kidney For more information face a 30% increased risk of mortality from cancer surgical treatment across these visit nicoa.org or call (505) early-stage kidney cancer. groups, we are investigating if there are 292-2001. These findings suggest that observed biologic bases in kidney cancer disparities." 10A • The Seminole Tribune • May 31, 2021 SEMINOLE SCENES

Above, via Instagram; at left, Hard Rock MISS INDIAN WORLD MEETS MISS UNIVERSE: Some Miss Universe contestants learned about the Seminole Tribe during their stay at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood in mid-May for the Miss Universe competition. Former Miss Indian World and former Miss Florida Seminole Cheyenne Kippenberger met with a group of contestants as well as 2019 Miss Universe winner Zozibini Tunzi. “[Kippenberger] explained to us about the rich culture and history of her tribe and the work she has been doing for her community. The land of @hardrockholly is owned by the Seminole Tribe. Thank you for letting us experience this magical stay,” Anshika Sharma, Miss Nepal, wrote on Instagram. Sharma’s Instagram post and photo with Kippenberger received more than 12,000 likes. Above, from left to right, Miss Malaysia, Francisca Luhong James; Miss Nepal, Anshika Sharma; 2019-21 Miss Indian World, Cheyenne Kippenberger; and Miss Australia, Maria Thattil. At left, Kippenberger with 2019 Miss Universe winner Zozibini Tunzi, from South Africa.

Beverly Bidney LUNCHTIME: An osprey clutches a fish in April near Harney Pond canal in Brighton.

Kevin Johnson LOOKING UP TO BIG COUSIN: Cassie Pearce enjoys being able to see her cousin, Trevor Thomas, before the start of a Sun Conference tournament baseball game May 7 at Ballpark of the Palm Beaches in West Palm Beach. Thomas is an outfielder for Warner University, which defeated Keiser University that evening. (See page B5 for story). Hard Rock born 50 years ago

Hard Rock Seminole Tribe leaders smash guitars to open the new Hard Rock Cafe at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood in November 2019. The Tribe purchased Hard Rock International from the Rank Group of Britain in December 2006.

Hard Rock The iconic Hard Rock logo is one of the most recognizable designs in the world.

Image via Issac-Tigrett.com Hard Rock started in June 1971 when Americans Issac Tigrett, left, and Peter Morton opened the first Hard Rock Cafe in London. The brand, which is now owned by the Seminole Tribe, has blossomed into hotels, casinos, live performance venues and cafes in 68 countries. Also, Hard Rock owns the world’s largest and most valuable collection of authentic music memorabilia at more than 86,000 pieces

Via Facebook Rita Gilligan, a Hard Rock Cafe waitress from Hard Rock via Facebook Hard Rock day one in London, serves as an ambassador for Hard Rock Cafe is in the heart of it all in New York City’s Times Square. Hard Rock pins, including Belgium’s, are a big hit with collectors. the brand. 11A • The Seminole Tribune • May 31,, 2021 NATIONAL NATIVE NEWS Tribes, Native organizations push said. “Much of their collections may be according to the Coast Guard. member, the Maine chapter of The Nature forward,” Wilson said. “It was done humbly, back at institutions reluctant to help obtained from the theft and violence of other The Coast Guard notes that the Ahousaht Conservancy, in effect gave the tribe the with respect and in a good way. We hope the peoples. We wouldn’t allow that [today].” First Nation has long been a steward of the funds to purchase the island from the seller, community will continue to be supportive of with repatriation efforts Phil Deloria (Standing Rock Sioux area and has historically been the first on Naton Coutinho. the fact that this site is sacred to American Tribe) is a history professor at Harvard scene for many marine emergencies. “This is just the beginning,” said First Indians and be respectful.” In early 2021, the Harvard Peabody University, where he teaches subjects like In 2016, a whale-watching vessel sunk Light’s facilitator, Peter Forbes. “There are “NAGPRA is about human rights, Museum issued a statement apologizing environmental history and the American off the coast of Tofino, and members of the several other examples in the works right respecting tribal sovereignty and federal for its reluctance working with tribes to West. Deloria says a 2010 amendment to Ahousaht First Nation were among the first now, and our commitment is to stay at this law,” Thomas said. “We still have a long way return some remains and funerary objects. NAGPRA was supposed to lay out other to respond. for a long time.” to go, but we are so incredibly honored and The social unrest of 2020 had reignited the pathways to repatriate culturally unaffiliated Six people died in the accident, but 21 The Nature Conservancy, a global land committed to seeing this work completed.” conversation of returning ancestral remains — or unidentified — remains. people were saved by Ahousaht First Nation trust, has been increasing its cooperation and sacred objects to their people. “In that early moment, museums, members, as well as Tofino residents and with indigenous people around the world, - Indiana University News Since contact, Indigenous people and institutions were required to prepare other nearby whale-watching vessels. including in Maine. settlers have had a contentious relationship, inventories to consult with tribes on these “Our Government recognizes the critical “We have a recognized strategy of particularly as settlers appropriated items San Manuel Band of Mission inventories with the goal of identifying as role that First Nation communities have elevating the voice and choice and actions Indians plans to acquire the Palms in from traditional Native homelands. These many kinds of remains and cultural objects played for generations, protecting mariners, of indigenous people out of a recognition items included totem poles, funerary that could be culturally affiliated with tribes,” marine life and coastal ecosystems,” said that they actually have a great track record Las Vegas for $650 million and cultural objects — even remains of said Deloria, who also currently chairs the Bernadette Jordan, Minister of Fisheries, for sustaining a healthy environment and Indigenous ancestors. Peabody’s NAGPRA faculty committee. Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard in a biodiversity, and also out of an understanding The San Manuel Band of Mission Examples include the Edward Harriman “And there’s a certain kind of set of release Wednesday. of social considerations as we continue Indians has announced plans to purchase the Expedition removing a Teikweidi memorial standards of evidence that suggests and “We’ll continue to work with Ahousaht to learn about the ongoing impacts that Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas, making it pole from Southeast Alaska in 1899. Or many, many things end up in this kind of First Nation and other coastal communities indigenous people have experienced,” said the first tribe to own and operate a casino in when anthropologist Aleš Hrdlička, an early bucket of the culturally unidentified,” he to protect Canada’s oceans from coast to Mark Berry, forest program director at The the city’s resort corridor. 1900s Czech-born anthropologist known said. coast to coast,” she said. Nature Conservancy’s Maine chapter. The tribe, which already owns and for unorthodox collection methods such as The Association of American Indian Through the Coastal Nations Coast operates San Manuel Casino in Highland, stripping decomposing flesh from bones, Affairs sent a letter urging Harvard Peabody Guard Auxiliary (CN-CGA), volunteers - Portland (Maine) Press Herald and the San Manuel Gaming and Hospitality discarded the remains of an infant found in to change its practices — and O’Loughlin are trained in search techniques, cold Authority, a newly created entity that will a cradleboard and sent it to the American hopes that tribes have greater opportunity to water rescue, marine first aid, inter-agency run the Las Vegas resort, will acquire the Museum of Natural History. Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe casino property for $650 million, according go through the disposition process. communications and more. elects new tribal council leader “They didn’t have any shame, you know, More than 600 people and organizations The response vessels are on-call 24 to a news release from current Palms taking even from graves,” said Rosita Worl, owner Red Rock Resorts. The transaction signed on in support of the association’s hours a day, 365 days a year. MASHPEE, Mass. — The Mashpee president of Sealaska Heritage Institute, efforts. is expected to close in 2021, but is subject a private non-profit cultural organization Wampanoag Tribe has a new chairman to regulatory approvals and other closing Deloria says he recognizes the amount - CBC News who aims to unite tribal members, promote based in Juneau, Alaska. of work a Tribe must go through to make conditions, according to a news release from Worl earned her master’s and doctorate economic development and preserve the San Manuel. a claim, but it’s an important part of the Archaeologists, Native American tribe’s culture. in anthropology from Harvard University. process. Jacob Coin, executive adviser to San “They just came and took things off of tribes studying pieces of 4,000-year- In its May 16 election, members of Manuel Tribal Chairman Ken Ramirez, said “I have come to the perhaps odd the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe elected graves,” said Worl, who carries the Tlingit view that the bureaucratic process, the old canoe found in Cooper River in a phone interview Tuesday afternoon that names Yeidiklasókw and Kaaháni, and 28-year-old Brian Weeden as chairman of the acquisition of the Palms is part of the administrative apparatus, the research, the the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribal Council. is Tlingit, Ch’áak’ (Eagle) moiety of the collaborative things, is a really important NORTH CHALESTON, S.C. — tribe’s mission of “securing a future for its Shangukeidí¬ (Thunderbird) Clan from the “I feel ready to get to work,” Weeden people” and that the purchase of the resort part of doing a kind of form of justice and Thousands of years of history is unfolding said. “There’s a lot of things that need to be Kawdliyaayi Hít (House Lowered From honor to the to the objects and to the human after the discovery of a canoe in the Cooper in Las Vegas gives the tribe another financial the Sun) in Klukwan. “You think about done for the tribe and the community.” avenue to accomplish that goal. remains,” Deloria said. “It’s also the case River and experts are showcasing it to Native Weeden won by 20 votes, garnering a Southeast, it was amazing that we even had that an institution needs to make sure that American tribes across South Carolina. “The tribe has been talking about this anything left.” total of 241 votes to 221 for Nelson Andrews kind of growth and diversification that will they repatriating to the right people.” “To be able to see something that my Jr.. Aaron Tobey Jr. received 167 votes, Often remains would be removed from Harvard Peabody claims it has ancestors created thousands of years ago secure a future for at least two decades and tribes without consent or consultation and and Robert “Kyle” Bassett had 20. Carlton probably longer,” Coin said. repatriated about 30% of its collection. The is amazing,” said Lamar Nelson, Chief of Hendricks Jr. was elected vice-chairman, stored in university or museum collections Association of American Indian Affairs Eastern Cherokee and Southern Iroquois That echoes a national trend among — and even in international institutions. Marie Stone elected treasurer and Cassie tribes, said Katherine Spilde, a professor says that number is closer to 15%, and tribes. Jackson elected secretary. “I mean, museums themselves are the museum may be counting remains it’s Members of tribes here in the at San Diego State University’s L. Robert institutions of colonialism,” Worl said. “I hope the tribe’s future is bright with Payne School of Hospitality and Tourism coordinating with other museums. Lowcountry got a chance to see and touch the newly elected leadership,” Bassett said. “They came in, they expropriated cultural But for Sealaska Heritage President the canoe. Management and an expert on casinos. She objects, human remains and more, often “I know everybody that got elected, and I said diversification has taken different forms Rosita Worl, who worked in the Harvard “It’s mind blowing because I have hope that they’re up for the challenge.” without the permission of Native American Peabody Museum, the overall impact is always been told that my ancestors are such as real estate, logistics centers and tribes and others. What they saw as art, we Weeden is the youngest person to serve agritourism. clear. indigenous,” said Lisa Mcqueen-Starling, as Tribal Council chairman, the head of the saw as cultural objects.” “To see that they had 5,000 human Chief CEO of Wassamasaw Indian Nation. The move by the San Manuel Band And the Indigenous peoples in the tribe’s executive and legislative government to purchase the Palms adds a commercial remains after 30 some years, you know, I Archaeologists at the Clemson branch. United States did not have much recourse was horrified when I saw that,” she said. University Warren Lasch Conservation gaming arm and allows the tribe to use the until the early 1990s. Weeden graduated from Mashpee expertise it already has from its operation in NAGPRA was intended to give tribes Center are studying a piece of the canoe High School in 2011 and attended Cape The Native American Graves Protection a pathway to return and repatriate cultural along with Native American tribes. Highland, Spilde said. and Repatriation Act — NAGPRA for short Cod Community College. He works for the San Manuel would be the second tribe objects and remains. But it isn’t without its “We want to look to the communities Mashpee Department of Public Works as a — gave tribes a legal avenue to pursue the problems – and tribes still have a lot of work and allow them to both inform us of the operating in Las Vegas’ resort corridor. return of remains and some funerary objects. custodian at the K.C. Coombs School. Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment, to continue fighting for repatriation. history, but also claim authority over For years, Weeden has been involved in NAGPRA requires publicly funded their heritage,” said Gyllian Porteous an operated by Connecticut’s Mohegan Tribal universities and museums to document and both tribal and town organizations, such as Gaming Authority, runs the recently opened This article is part of a series and an Archeological Conservator at Warren Lasch the Mashpee Conservation Commission and report the remains and funerary objects extended audio podcast at knba.org. Conservation Center. casino at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas (formerly within their collection. The summaries are the Mashpee Historical Commission. He was the Hard Rock Hotel). Conserving the canoe has taken more most recently elected to the Mashpee School searchable by institutions, states where the - KNBA (Achorage, Alaska) than a year and archaeologists are now However, San Manuel would be the first remains are held and states and general Committee. He is also on Mashpee’s Town tribe to wholly own and operate a property looking to find more pieces in the Cooper Seal Design Committee, and is representing regions of origin. River. in Las Vegas, said David G. Schwartz, After a year that saw growth of the Ponca Tribe wants Chief the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe on the state a gaming historian at the University of “It can be associated with a cultural seal commission. Black Lives Matter movement and toppling Standing Bear’s tomahawk back site that hasn’t been found yet so ideally we Nevada, Las Vegas. of colonial monuments and statues, the “Las Vegas is a market that a lot of would go into that, but at this point we are at - Cape Cod (Massachusetts) Times Peabody Museum announced in January it Forced off their homeland to live on a a dead end,” said Porteous. gaming operators want to get into and tribal had about 15 remains of African Americans reservation in Oklahoma, Standing Bear Members of the Wassamasaw tribe in casinos are some of the biggest casinos in or those of African descent who likely lived and some Poncas walked for four months Berkeley County say they hope these pieces Indiana University, tribal nations the country so I think it’s definitely feasible before 1865 and may have been enslaved. to Nebraska so they could fulfill the chief’s help show the impact of Native Americans complete Angel Mounds repatriation that many of them would be looking into According to museum director Jane eldest son’s dying wish: to be buried in his on the Holy City. getting into Vegas,” he said. Pickering, the museum pledged to try to homeland. Before they could reach Omaha, “I hope that this will open up the BLOOMINGTON, Ind. — Indiana As Southern California’s casinos return those remains to the appropriate Standing Bear was arrested. discussion to really educate about the people University and several federally recognized continue to grow and add new amenities, communities. Chairman of the Ponca Tribe of that were here before,” said Sterling. tribal nations have completed the they’ve increasingly tried to capture a “We felt that this was the moment that Nebraska Larry Wright Jr. said the chief gave Archaeologists with Clemson repatriation of the Angel Mounds collection segment of audience that would normally the university really needed to engage with attorney John Lee Webster his tomahawk University say it could take from 2 to 4 years in compliance with the Native American vacation in Las Vegas. this issue,” Pickering said during a interview after winning the 1879 Nebraska federal until the canoe is displayed. Graves Protection and Repatriation Act. Having a casino in Southern California via virtual teleconference. “There are other court case to thank him, but it was symbolic Passed in 1990, NAGPRA mandates the and another four hours away in Las Vegas institutions that have been thinking along too. - WCBD-TV (Mount Pleasant, S.C.) return of Native American human remains might actually drive traffic from Nevada into these lines as well, but that it was time “Tomahawks were a weapon for and cultural items to tribal nations. This California, Schwartz said. for us to really face up to that history as a fighting and that lifestyle,” Wright Jr. said. repatriation includes the remains of over He said he could see a casino doing university, as an institution.” “Obviously, the trial took place in a very Passamaquoddy Tribe reacquires 700 individuals unearthed from the Angel something like incentivizing guests to visit The release stated that a steering different environment, essentially still island stolen more than 150 years ago Mounds National Historic Landmark and between the two casinos through their committee would help direct a “multi-year, defending itself, then defending his right to State Historic Site in Evansville, Indiana, loyalty program. cross-departmental initiative” to assess its go home and live in peace.” On The Passamaquoddy Tribe has starting in the 1930s. procedures. Brett Chapman, an Oklahoma lawyer reacquired almost the entirety of a 150- “After so many years, they are returning - The San Bernadino (Calif.) Sun The Harvard Peabody collection and descendant of Standing Bear, said the acre island in Big Lake that was illegally home,” said Mike Linderman, western includes several Alaska Native cultural tomahawk belongs in a museum run by the taken from them in the mid-19th century regional director for state historic sites at Navajo Nation becomes largest objects and at least one report of remains Ponca Tribe in Nebraska. So far, 20 Nebraska in violation of a 1794 treaty and the Maine the Indiana State Museum and manager for tribe in US after pandemic saw climb from the Aleutians West region. lawmakers have signed a resolution in Constitution. Angel Mounds State Historic Site. in enrollment In a statement, Harvard Peabody said support of the effort. The acquisition of most of the island “I deeply appreciate the work by my it was working toward consultations with Wright said the tomahawk’s rightful – known as White’s Island by Euro- IU and museum colleagues who took part tribes to return remains and funerary objects place is with them. Many of the chief’s American settlers since the 1850s but as The Navajo Nation has become the in the sacred repatriation and reburial of largest tribe in the U.S., as its enrollment in compliance with NAGPRA. And it possessions, like his ceremonial headdress Kuwesuwi Monihq, or Pine Island, by the ancestral remains from our campus to pledged to develop better policies to address and necklaces, are in the Ponca Tribe the Passamaquoddy – was facilitated by a climbed during the coronavirus pandemic. Angel Mounds,” IU Bloomington Provost The tribe’s enrollment jumped from its previous reluctance of turning over some Museum in Niobrara, Nebraska. burgeoning partnership between Maine’s and Executive Vice President Lauren Robel objects. “The fact that that item was at the trial tribes and the conservation community 306,268 to 399,494 in 2020, according said. “This somber, necessary and important to the Navajo Office of Vital Records But tribes and Native-based itself with him. And the reason that the that aims to help restore key territories to experience will remain in our hearts forever. organizations like the Association of Ponca Tribe is back in Nebraska is because Wabanaki control. and Identification, The New York Times I am grateful for the integrity, sensitivity and reported. American Indian Affairs pushed back, of the efforts that he and those followers that “It’s a sign of the growing relationship care with which these human beings were questioning the museum’s process. came back with them,” he said. “They were between the tribal community and the The Navajo Nation, whose reservation restored to their proper homes.” is in Arizona, Utah and New Mexico, has Shannon O’Loughlin is a citizen of the willing to come back to Nebraska to be in conservation community,” said tribal Tribal nations indicated their desire for Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and the chief their homeland or die trying.” attorney Michael-Corey Francis Hinton. surpassed the Cherokee Nation to become IU to focus specifically on Angel Mounds at the biggest tribe in the U.S. The Cherokee executive and attorney for the association, The Nebraska Legislature will likely “This land was so important that after the a November 2016 15-tribe consultation in which formed in 1922 to serve Indian discuss the resolution next month. There Passamaquoddy fought in the American Nation has an enrollment of around 392,000. Oklahoma, an event sponsored by a National The Navajo Nation has some of Country by protecting sovereignty and will be a public hearing about it beforehand. Revolution they were told that they could NAGPRA Consultation grant. IU NAGPRA preserving culture. have hunting and fishing rights in perpetuity. the strictest requirements among tribes Director Jayne-Leigh Thomas said they for joining, with official documentation “Harvard tends to cause delay, refuses to - Nebraska Public Radio This is one of the pieces of land the chief immediately got to work after returning to make decisions. And often causes extensive designated for that.” showing a person is one-quarter Diné, the Bloomington. term many from the Navajo Nation prefer to burden on tribes by forcing them to produce Vancouver Island First Nation The wooded island, which mostly lies “There was a lot to figure out,” Thomas evidence of cultural affiliation so they have within two unorganized townships near call themselves, needed, NYT noted. partners with Coast Guard to launch said. “A project this large requires a lot of One reason enrollment has increased so a long history,” she said. the Passamaquoddy’s Indian Township coordination, organization, planning and O’Loughlin says she’s concerned Indigenous-led response vessel reservation in eastern Washington County, much could be the tribe’s COVID-19 relief teamwork.” payments; those who wished to reenroll or Harvard-educated students would go on has been advertised on and off in glossy In addition to working with the Quapaw to other institutions and perpetuate the VICTORIA, British Columbia, magazines and “exclusive island” real estate enroll for the first time would get a $1,350 Nation, the Eastern Shawnee Tribe of payment from the funds given to the tribe by same harmful repatriation practices and Canada — The Ahousaht First Nation on sites for a decade. It was most recently listed Oklahoma, the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma procedures. the west coast of Vancouver Island and the for $449,000. the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic and the Shawnee Tribe, IU worked closely Security Act if accepted, the Times reported. “They have developed their inventories Canadian Coast Guard have launched a The Passamaquoddy had long sought with representatives from the Indiana State out of alignment with what NAGPRA new response vessel, which will be staffed a return of the island but previously did not The population of the Navajo Nation Museum and Historic Sites, which includes could be greater, as the Census Bureau has requires,” she said. “They’ve done so by entirely by First Nation members. have either a willing seller or the means to Angel Mounds. failing to consult with tribes before they The $214,000 response vessel was purchase it. Last fall the chief of their Indian not released the 2020 population numbers “In working with collaboration and for the tribe. completed their inventory process.” funded through the Canadian Coast Guard’s Township reservation, William Nicholas, consultation with Indiana University and O’Loughlin says that Harvard Peabody Indigenous Community Boat Volunteer Pilot saw it listed and reached out to First Light, The Navajo Nation president in recent the other tribes, we arrived at the date near weeks has come out against Arizona’s new categorized some remains and items as Program, which was created to enhance an informal umbrella group of 65 land the spring equinox for the reburial,” said culturally unidentifiable — which means marine safety in B.C., particularly in First trusts, timber companies, philanthropies voting laws, saying they’re an “assault” on Quapaw Nation NAGPRA coordinator the tribe’s voting rights. tribes must provide even more evidence to Nation territories. and conservation groups that have sought to Carrie Wilson. make a claim. The 29-foot vessel is one of the first partner with the Maine tribes to assist them Many Quapaw Nation Business - The Hill “That a people can have control and dedicated response vessels to be created in reacquiring lost territory. Committee members traveled to Evansville dominion over other peoples to the extent through the program. It has a cruising At the time, First Light was concluding for the reburial, and Solomon Jones was the of outlawing their religions and cultures and speed of 32 knots, an estimated range of another transaction under which one of its traditional cultural practitioner who led the taking away those things that support that 400 nautical miles and will be staffed by member landholders, Roxanne Quimby’s ceremonies for the tribe. culture’s identity and health is its thinking more than 50 Indigenous people from the foundation Elliotsville Plantation, gave 735 “Reburying during the spring equinox about that, you know, today that institutions Ahousaht, Heiltsuk, Gitxaala, Nisgaa, acres of forest northeast of Dover-Foxcroft was meaningful on many different fronts still carry on that that racism,” O’Loughlin Kitasoo, and Quatsino First Nations, back to the Penobscot Nation. Another and represented a spiritual healing of going 12A • The Seminole Tribune • May 31, 2021

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BY DAMON SCOTT Staff Reporter

The school with longtime ties to the Seminole Tribe has chosen a new president. Richard McCullough was unanimously picked to replace retiring Florida State University president John Thrasher by the FSU Board of Trustees. The school announced the decision May 24. Thrasher has been president of the Tallahassee school since 2014. McCullough, a Harvard University vice provost for research since Richard McCullough 2012, was among three finalists vying for the position. He is also a professor of materials science and engineering at Harvard. McCullough previously earned a Ph.D. in engineering from Johns Hopkins Courtesy photo University in Baltimore and served as vice Moore Haven High School graduates, including tribal members and/or former Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School students, pose proudly at graduation May 21 at the school’s Joe Brown Stadium. From left president for research at Carnegie Mellon are Donovan Harris, Ko’Oshee Henry, Hyatt Pearce, Aleah Turtle, Mariah Billie, Ramone Baker and Heith Lawrence. University in Pittsburgh. He also is cofounder and chairman of Liquid X, a company that produces particle-free ink formulas. The other two finalists were Robert Blouin, executive vice chancellor and FSU homecoming pep rally no longer called ‘Pow Wow’ provost at the University of North Carolina- Chapel Hill, and Giovanni Piedimonte, vice BY BEVERLY BIDNEY through the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center the word pow wow, the council determined it The council is comprised of students. president for research at Tulane University. Staff Reporter parking area to view them. not justify its use and stated the term should “We take accountability for our actions McCullough’s appointment still needs to The FSU Spring 2021 Homecoming apply solely to the celebration of cultures of and will continue to work to make FSU be approved by the state university system’s Council said it changed the pep rally’s name Indigenous people by Indigenous people. Homecoming more inclusive for all Board of Governors, which is scheduled to Florida State University officially to “Homecoming Live” to demonstrate “By comparing the pep rally led by students,” the council stated. meet June 23. changed the name of its annual homecoming its commitment to diversity, equity and FSU Homecoming to a pow wow, we, Homecoming also included the Garnet “Public universities are amazing engines pep rally from “Pow Wow” to “Homecoming inclusion. The announcement stated the name intentionally or not, disregard the history and Gold spring football game at Doak of social change and mobility, and FSU is Live.” is “more in line with what the Homecoming of why pow wows exist,” read the council’s Campbell Stadium, which consisted of two leading the way in that effort,” McCullough Usually a fall event, homecoming was Council wants to accomplish with this event: statement. “The cultural significance of the 12-minute periods in front of 14,329 socially said in a statement. held this year April 5-10 due to the pandemic. a student-focused, live event spotlighting the term and the years of improper use by FSU distanced and masked fans. FSU’s season McCullough is from Mesquite, Texas. Activities included a reverse-style parade in accomplishments of our students, alumni Homecoming led to the decision by the FSU begins at home Sept. 5 against Notre Dame. He’ll be joined in Florida by his wife, Jai which floats, parade entries and performers and community.” Homecoming Council to change the name Vartikar, and two children, Jason and Dylan. remained stationary while spectators drove After examining the historical context of from ‘Pow Wow’ to ‘Homecoming Live.’”

Haskell president removed amid Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School students of the month free speech controversy May 2021

BY BEVERLY BIDNEY Staff Reporter

Jared Nally became a student journalist to be more involved in campus life instead of taking a job at a fast food restaurant. “I thought if I worked at the paper I’d be at all the events and involved in campus culture,” said Nally (Miami Tribe of Oklahoma), editor of Haskell Indian Nations University’s student newspaper the Indian Leader in Lawrence, Kansas. “I wasn’t passionate at the time, but free speech made me realize how important journalism is and how important it is to hold officials accountable.” Nally’s determination and passion for free speech played a major role toward the firing of HINU President Ronald Graham in May. Nally, a senior, was working on a story about the passing of a university employee and reached out to university officials and the police department for confirmation. That simple act of routine journalistic research earned Nally the ire of Graham, who issued a directive in October 2020 that would have forbidden journalistic practices and restricted free speech. Graham’s administration called the Indian Leader a student organization instead of a newspaper and cut its budget by over $10,000. The directive effectively silenced Nally for 90 days. In early March, Nally filed a federal lawsuit against Graham and the university. After the lawsuit was filed, Graham issued two other directives on March 11 and March 21. The first directive forbade employees from expressing opinions about the administration and the second one forbade Gary Rohman/FIRE faculty from mentioning their Haskell Jared Nally is editor of the Indian Leader, Haskell Indian Nations University student newspaper. employment when speaking with the media. An internal investigation revealed Graham stifled the free speech rights of released a memo to students.” showed an enrollment of nearly 800 students students and faculty, which led to a unanimous But instead of being intimidated by the who represented 145 sovereign nations from vote of no confidence in the president from administration as he tried to do his job, Nally 35 states. NIEA to hold convention in October the faculty senate on April 1. The directives was invigorated and plans to attend graduate Today, academic programs include school to study journalism. natural and social sciences, Indigenous and were rescinded April 7. Graham was fired by FROM PRESS RELEASE the school’s board of regents on May 7 and “Most people don’t appreciate the value American Indian studies, environmental Omaha, Nebraska. The theme is “Native replaced by Dr. Tamarah Pfeiffer, a member of free speech,” he said. “We need to be able science, mathematics, communications, Control of Native Education: A Time to of the Bureau of Indian Education’s senior to keep and exercise that freedom.” English, art, theater, music and media The National Indian Education Lead.” leadership team. Haskell’s history dates back to the mid- communications. Professional schools Association will hold its 52nd annual For more information visit niea.org. “The acting president hasn’t released 1800s when it first opened as an elementary include health, sport and exercise science, Convention and Trade Show from October anything to students that she is in the school with 22 Native American students. business and education. 13-16 at the at the CHI Health Center, position,” Nally said. “The BIE hasn’t The university’s figures from 2019 Omaha’s Convention Center & Arena in 2B • The Seminole Tribune • May 31, 2021 Q&A with Native American Languages Act, Rollie Gilliam III 30 years and counting After ACD, a new role at CSSS PECS immersion program embodiment of legislation

BY DAMON SCOTT BY BEVERLY BIDNEY Staff Reporter Staff Reporter Rollie Gilliam III HOLLYWOOD — Congress passed the Native American has set the pace at the Seminole Tribe in Languages Act in 1990 to support and protect its Advanced Career Development (ACD) the rights of Native Americans to use their program – part of the Tribal Professional languages. The passage of the bill allowed Development (TPD) department. tribes throughout the country, including As the Fort Pierce-raised 33-year-old the Seminole Tribe, to work to ensure their graduates from the program he entered in languages survive. 2019, he has started a new chapter in his Brighton’s Pemayetv Emahakv Charter professional career. Gilliam now works in School created its immersion program in quality assurance at the Center for Student 2015 with the goal of creating Creek speakers Services and Success – a first for the from infancy. At the time, there were only 30 department. or 40 Creek speakers in the tribe. “As the department begins to expand its The program staff includes three elders role in the collection and monitoring of data, - Jennie Shore, Alice Sweat and Emma Fish Rollie will play an important role,” CSSS - and five second language learners - Jade director Michael Giacchino said in an email. Osceola, Rita Gopher, Jewel Lavatta, Rita “This is because data is what tells the tribe’s Youngman and Janae Braswell. story. From it, history is recorded, patterns Today the program is comprised of revealed, and plans for future action can be Courtesy photo the same babies and toddlers who started made to both enhance the tribal member Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School immersion students have returned to in-person classroom with the program, but now six are in first experience and CSSS programs.” learning. grade, two are in kindergarten and three are Gilliam has a master’s degree in preschool age. The impact of the program criminology and criminal justice from has had a profound effect on the children and Florida Atlantic University. Last year, he Damon Scott needed to get the kids back together with “Our job is to do all the work from their families. added a professional certification from Rollie Gilliam III graduated from the ACD program them.” diapers to food to day to day operations,” “A lot more language has been brought Florida State University in “trauma and and has begun a new position at CSSS. The immersion program is back at Osceola said of herself and the other adults. into the home,” said Osceola, who runs the resilience: level one” to his resume. He also school in person, more than a year after it “The elders’ job is to talk, talk, talk. They program. “We have created our own family recently earned a certified green belt from closed. Osceola has seen some backsliding, correct grammar and guide them in the unit; they do everything together, even the Lean Six Sigma Institute at Broward but is confident they will catch up soon. direction the language should be used. It’s outside of school. The speak Creek outside College – a group that offers courses and You grew up in Fort Pierce. What “The kids are picking it back up, it’s a natural thing and they take on a grandma of school and go to birthday parties and certifications for individuals who want to would you like to share about your family almost like we never left,” Osceola said. role.” sports events together. It’s impacted them in help organizations implement projects and there and now here in Hollywood? “We’ve had our struggles, but as a whole The kids embrace the culturally driven a major way.” goals and standardize their work. they were excited to see each other and program. Osceola hopes that as they get Like everything else in the tribe, the “Rollie has worked closely with each At one point in time, we were the last speak their language again.” older, they will take ownership of the immersion program shut down when the of the programs in the CSSS to learn about community to have a reservation associated The plan for the program is to keep the language and continue to use it. For now, pandemic hit. The students went from their operations, processes and procedures,” with our city. This was well overdue yet children together throughout their school the group of immersion students are isolated eight hours of language a day to none. The Giacchino said. “His participation in rewarding because of our grit and grind. Since years at PECS, but Osceola said they take it from the rest of PECS students. dynamic of kids not seeing the elders every management meetings has led to streamlining then, I’ve seen a high level of professional one year at a time. “Once they leave the class, it’s all day affected the program. Osceola fought and the elimination of professional waste.” elevation from my Afro-Indigenous, mixed “It’s never been done before,” she said. English,” Osceola said. “They have the rest to open the program’s doors even though Gilliam has long said it’s important for blood family members that have changed the “We are putting language first.” of their lives to learn it, English isn’t going the rest of PECS was closed during the tribal members to participate in government game. I see you, Fort Pierce. That isn’t to say the students don’t learn anywhere. They are learning Creek now. No pandemic. and community organizations. He said his academic subjects, including math, science, one and nothing will keep us from saving our “The rest of the school isn’t working to “stakeholder first mentality” is what drives In terms of your new position at CSSS social studies and English. Every subject language.” save a struggling language,” she said. “The him to give those who access CSSS the best – why is it important? is taught in Creek, except English which is elders aren’t getting any younger and we experience possible. He describes himself as taught by an English teacher. the CSSS “franchise player” because of his Demand. Literally, not one tribal intense dedication to the department. member has approached me and verbally “It is clear that since Rollie began to inquired about quality assurance. However, contribute to the CSSS that he has played the non-verbal cues have always been a key role [in] redefining the direction of present. I identified the need and it took off the CSSS for the betterment of the tribal from there. I have a motivation to enhance community,” Giacchino said. the relationship between the CSSS and the The Tribune asked Gilliam to share tribal community so that it’s more authentic. a little bit with readers about his life, I viewed this as an opportunity to elevate the education, and career. tribal reverence.

What stands out for you when you What’s one thing tribal members look back at your ACD experience? would be surprised to learn about you? It’s the triumphs that supersede the trials. I prefer administrative work over It has been quite a journey, but the lessons, fieldwork. Some of my colleagues and tribal not losses, have been most rewarding. We community members push me toward the have an inside joke in ACD that pertains latter. I had to fully understand that this isn’t to the acronym. Sarcastically speaking, it up to me, but those who see greater. stands for “Anything Can Develop.” It holds true in this case. Editor’s note: Gilliam can be reached via email at rollie.gilliam@semtribe. com and by phone at (954) 989-6840 ext. Do you have any advice for tribal 10588. The tribal members now enrolled in members who may not know about the Advanced Career Development (ACD) are program or are considering it? Tomasina Chupco-Gilliam, Aaron Tommie, Two words: proactive measures. From Derrick Tiger and Taylor Holata. The Tribal resumes to job descriptions to marketing, we Professional Development (TPD) staff should have these items readily available to consists of Kerlande Patterson, supervisor; Courtesy photo counter any probable ‘no’s’ to the entry in Kajir Harriott, student and professional Teacher Rita Gopher, far left, in the PECS immersion classroom on a typical day since returning to campus. our workforce. This is an us, not me, thing. development success coach; and Hurvens Member-to-member allyship is imperative Monestime, senior specialist. to knocking those doors down. Language Act name change would honor Cherokee linguist, Vietnam veteran Speaker line up announced for STAFF REPORT American Languages Act of 1990,” said Cherokee linguist and Vietnam veteran who Chairman Schatz. “The Durbin Feeling passed away on Aug. 19, 2020. The bill National UNITY Conference On April 29, the U.S. Senate Committee Native American Languages Act will ensure will review and make recommendations to on Indian Affairs, chaired by Sen. Brian we are living up to that commitment. Our improve federal agencies’ coordination in bill will make the federal government more support of Native American languages and FROM PRESS RELEASE Schatz (D-Hawaii) and co-chaired by Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), introduced the accountable by setting clear goals and asking authorize a federal survey of Native language Durbin Feeling Native American Languages for direct input from Native communities use and programmatic needs every five MESA, Ariz. — An actor, clothing Act of 2021. about how federal resources can be more years. These surveys will serve as “health designer, singer and Tik Tok star, and a “Congress made a commitment to effectively used to support and revitalize checks” to allow Native communities and fashion designer have been confirmed as part promote and protect the rights of Native Native languages.” Congress to target federal resources for of the speaker line up at the 2021 National Americans to use their languages over three The bi-partisan legislation marks the Native American languages more effectively. UNITY Conference in Dallas, Texas, to be decades ago when it enacted the Native 30th anniversary of the Act, but will change held from July 2-6 at the downtown Sheraton the name to honor Feeling, a renowned Hotel and Convention Center. The conference theme will be ‘45 Years of Building Resilient Leaders and Lifelong Connections.’ The event will feature: • Chance Rush, Hidatsa, actor in Martin Scorsese’s “Killers of the Flower New board members named to CNAY Moon” and motivational speaker, trainer, regarding American Indian law and policy. led the development of the Nike Air Native comedian FROM PRESS RELEASE • Tia Wood, Cree/Salish, dancer/ She returned to Akin Gump in 2011 after N7 shoe, the N7 retail collection, and the N7 singer and Tik Tok star serving as staff director and chief counsel Fund, which helps to create access to sport • Hud Oberly, Comanche/Osage/ WASHINGTON, D.C. — The to the U.S. Senate Committee on Indian for Native American and Indigenous youth Caddo, creative director for Urban Native Center for Native American Youth at the Affairs from late 2007 to early 2011. She in the United States and Canada. McCracken Era Aspen Institute announced new leadership served as general counsel to the committee has pursued a strategy of increasing health • Norma Baker Flying Horse, in its board of advisors. Allison Binney from 2005 to late 2007. and wellness through physical activity in Hidatsa/Dakota Sioux/Assiniboine, Red Chance Rush (Sherwood Valley Band of Pomo Indians) Before originally joining Akin Gump, Native American communities. Berry woman fashion designer and Sam McCracken (Fort Peck Sioux and Allison served as an associate at a boutique McCracken has been recognized with For more information visit unityinc.org. Assiniboine) were voted unanimously by the law firm specializing in American Indian several prestigious awards for his passion board of advisors April 18. In these roles, law, as the program coordinator for the and work. He was honored in 2004 with Binney and McCracken will lead the board Indian Legal Program at Arizona State Nike’s Bowerman Award and with the and support the executive director. University College of Law and as a law clerk George Washington Honor Medal by the Guess Who is coming to Seminole “I am humbled to take on this new for the Native American Rights Fund in Freedom Foundation at Valley Forge, for position and hope that I can live up to the Washington, D.C., where she assisted with his commitment to Native communities on Casino Hotel Immokalee task. As someone who grew up in my own trial 1.0 in the Cobell class-action lawsuit. health promotion programs. More recently, tribal community, I understand firsthand She received her J.D. and Indian Law he received the 2010 President’s “Leadership the obstacles that many Native Youth face, certificate in 2000 from the Arizona State Award” from the National Indian Gaming FROM PRESS RELEASE years of age. but also know the capacity youth have to University College of Law and her B.A. Association. Tickets previously purchased for The become incredibly successful and leaders in political science with a minor in Native In June 2010, McCracken was IMMOKALEE — The Guess Who, Guess Who’s March 31, 2021, performance for the next generation.” Binney said in a American studies from the California State appointed by President Barack Obama to will perform their classic hits live in concert may be used for this concert. statement. University, Chico. She is a past president the US Department of Education’s National at Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee on With 14 Top 40 hit singles, The Guess Binney has served on the board of the Native American Bar Association of Advisory Council on Indian Education. March 19, 2022, at 8 p.m. Advance tickets Who is known as Canada’s first international of advisors as an executive committee Washington, D.C. More recently, McCracken and N7 received are on sale for $79 and are available by rock superstars. “These Eyes” reached No. 1 member since its founding in 2011. She McCracken is general manager of the National Center for American Indian phone at 1-800-514-ETIX or online at in Canada and No. 7 in the United States in is a partner at Akin Gump Strauss Hauer Nike N7. He became the manager of Nike’s Enterprise Development’s 2019 Corporate moreinparadise.com. Attendees must be 21 the spring of 1969. & Feld, LLP, where she advises clients Native American Business in 2000 and has Business of the Year Award. 3B • The Seminole Tribune • May 31, 2021 Best in show: Seminole Tribe 4-H winners

STAFF REPORT The winners were: Grand champion heifer showmanship junior The recently-completed 4-H year was Grand champion commercial heifer Khoal Cochran anything but typical. The show and sale were Rebekah Tigertail held online. It took five days to complete the Grand champion heifer show and bidders for animals didn’t get the Reserve champion commercial heifer showmanship intermediate aroma of the 4-H barn while bidding. Paizlee Miller Rebekah Tigertail Additionally, winners of the 4-H show held March 22-26 didn’t find out they won Grand champion cow calf Grand champion heifer until a few days later, when they opened Khoal Cochran showmanship senior their front doors. Staff members surprised Karlyne Urbina the winners by going to their homes and Grand champion registered planting a sign in the front yard to announce Salacoa Valley Farms heifer Grand champion steer the honor. Timothy Urbina Logan Covarrubias Each participant in the show was given a blue ribbon. All champion winners received Reserve champion registered Reserve champion steer a belt buckle, champion rosette and the yard Salacoa Valley Farms heifer Nicholus Andrews sign. Khoal Chochran Grand champion steer showmanship junior Augustice Jumper Grand champion steer showmanship intermediate Summer Gopher Grand champion steer showmanship senior Talia Billie Steer carcass winners Grand champion steer carcass Rylee Bowers Reserve champion steer carcass Karlyne Urbina Grand champion swine Anna Tigertail Reserve champion swine Levi Tommie Grand champion swine showmanship junior Terrance Osceola Grand champion swine Courtesy photos showmanship intermediate 4-H show winners pose with their yard signs. Clockwise from top left are Anna Tigertail, Levi Tommie, Anna Tigertail Shyanna Escobar and Terrence Osceola. Grand champion swine showmanship senior Shyanna Escobar Swine carcass winners Grand champion swine carcass Karma Koenes Courtesy photos Clockwise from left are 4-H winners Logan Covarrubias, Nicholus Andrews, Talia Billie and Summer Reserve champion swine carcass Gopher. Taryn Osceola

Tampa’s Seminole Native comedy ‘Rutherford Falls’ gathers buzz Hard Rock to feature BY DAMON SCOTT show – that Native American people are “not about his patriarchal ancestor, Big Larry, comedian Ron White Staff Reporter a monolith.” who is memorialized by a statue in the “There are over 500 Native tribes town’s square. The new television comedy “Rutherford FROM PRESS RELEASE and we all have our own nations, separate Rutherford explains that Big Larry Falls” is in its first episodes on the streaming governments, cultures, languages, just like inked a “fair and honest deal” with the service Peacock and has quickly won over everybody,” Ornelas said. “With the five fictional Minishonka Nation in 1638, to TAMPA — Live entertainment has critics and increasingly picked up fans. Native writers [on the show], including which a young Native kid with a “Land returned to Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Season one has 10 episodes in all; the myself and Jana [Schmieding], we all had Back” T-shirt raises their hand to ask, “Did Casino Tampa. Comedian Ron White will first episode aired April 22. many similar experiences but know Native they make a statue of any Minishonka?” perform at the Hard Rock Event Center on The series is a unique one – it’s not only people with different opinions on topics like The answer is, not surprisingly, no. July 25 with two socially distanced show a sitcom based on Native Americans but was tribal capitalism.” It’s a way the show approaches issues times at 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. Doors will open co-created by Sierra Teller Ornelas, who Ornelas is the first Native person to of Native American invisibility as well as at 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. for the shows. also oversees the show. She is a Mexican oversee (known as show running) a television the misconception that Indigenous people Tickets start at $75 and are American and a member of the Navajo comedy. The show was also co-created by only exist in areas like New Mexico and available via Ticketmaster or online at Nation. Mike Schur and TV and film star Ed Helms. Oklahoma. (New York City has one of the seminolehardrocktampa.com. Many of the show’s themes will be The storylines and characters are made highest urban Native populations in the White first rose to fame as the cigar- familiar to Native Americans. In the fourth specifically with Native communities in U.S., for example.) smoking, scotch-drinking funnyman from episode, for example, character Terry mind – and it’s written and portrayed by As one character explains it, “Indigenous the Blue Collar Comedy Tour phenomenon, Thomas, played by Michael Greyeyes Native people. Critics have said a show history is the greatest story never told.” but now as a chart-topping Grammy- (Muskeg Lake Cree Nation), responds to a like “Rutherford Falls” with multilayered “Rutherford Falls” is one in a recent nominated comedian and a feature film reporter after he’s asked if he’s “selling out Native characters and its take on the modern lineup of others with Native American actor, White has always been a classic his culture” by “chasing the almighty dollar” Indigenous experience, could only be created actors, creators and show runners. FX’s storyteller. His stories relay tales from his as a casino owner. Native people. “Reservation Dogs” airs this summer – a real life, ranging from growing up in a small “I will not rest until my nation gets every The first episode begins by introducing show that also features a Native American town in Texas to sharing stories of his daily single thing that was taken from them,” his Nathan Rutherford (Helms), the last leading producer – and Netflix’s animated Gage Skidmore life to becoming one of the most successful character says in response. descendant of the fictional Northeastern series “Spirit Rangers” features an industry- comedians in America. All four of his In a recent interview with TheWrap, Michael Greyeyes is one of the Native actors in town’s namesake to still live within its first of all Native writers. “Rutherford Falls.” comedy albums charted #1 on the Billboard Ornelas said that particular scene represented boundaries. His days are spent at the local Comedy Charts. something she wanted to get across in the museum where he educates school groups As an actor, White had supporting roles in “Horrible Bosses” and “Sex and the City 2.” He also had a principal role in Jayne Mansfield’s “Car,” written and directed by Billy Bob Thornton. He is a co-executive producer of “Bridegroom,” a Linda Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians member chosen for Bloodworth–Thomason documentary, which debuted at the 2013 NYC Tribeca UM Student Government judicial branch Film Festival and won the Audience Award. In 2016, White’s acting talents were BY ASHLEY A. WILLIAMS reservation is very different from a city like Since that showcased alongside Luke Wilson, Carla News@TheU Miami, he enjoys getting to live in the best day, Bennett said Gugino, and Imogen Poots, in music- of both worlds. Whitely has been industry veteran Cameron Crowe’s CORAL GABLES — The University “Coming from this little, small town a mentor and has Showtime series, “Roadies.” of Miami Student Government recently and being around people I have known since taken him under her selected Dallas Bennett, a member of the I was born, is very different from being wing and has helped Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI), in a city like Miami,” Bennett said. “My him immensely. as a Student Government Supreme Court reservation is very community-oriented, When he faced Herman’s Hermits associate justice. He is the first member and everybody knows everybody. It’s a very difficulty with of his tribe to serve in this capacity at the laid-back way of life and everyone moves at virtual learning, singer to play university. their own pace.” Whitely was there In this role, Bennett authors court He said that for those same reasons, to remind him of the Immoklaee opinions following a trial, shares advisory he loves being a student at the university. resources available opinions for the executive and legislative When Bennett enrolled, he only knew of on campus. FROM PRESS RELEASE branches of Student Government, and serves one other Native American student. Forming “He is an as the judicial representative for the Senate connections has not been difficult however, extraordinary IMMOKALEE — Herman’s Hermits Policy and Finance committee during the because Bennett is proud of where he comes young man, and Courtesy photo star Peter Noone will perform “An Old academic year. from and open to learning and meeting new I was thrilled to University of Miami student Dallas Bennett (EBCI) English Christmas” live in concert at “I want to go to law school, so I thought people. meet him and learn Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee on Dec. supreme court would be a good way to During Bennett’s first year at the about his journey academic year, Bennett also looks forward 12 at 8 p.m. Advance tickets are on sale for get started,” said Bennett, who has been university, he formed an unlikely bond to UM as a Native American student from to working closely with The UPROAR ticket $79 and are available at 1-800-514-ETIX involved with local and student governments with a popular administrator — Patricia the Cherokee Indian tribe in western North that now leads the Student Government or www.moreinparadise.com. Concert since high school. A. Whitely, the senior vice president for Carolina,” said Whitely. She and John Haller, administration, and he hopes to further bring attendees must be 21 years of age or older. Since his youth, he has held governance student affairs. He remembers meeting her vice president for enrollment management, all three branches together. Accompanied by his band, Noone positions on the reservation including as at a “Pancakes with Pat” campus community have reached out to the chief of Bennett’s “I’m so excited to continue my currently performs over 200 concerts a year. attorney general of the Junaluska Leadership event during the fall 2020 semester. tribe and hope to host him on campus when education. All the things that I’m doing is Noone and the band’s classic hits Council. He was the only Native youth from “It was my second day on campus, and it is safe to do so. helping me, but it is also allowing me to be include “I’m Into Something Good.” the EBCI in the group. In this role, he passed as I was walking by the Rat, Dr. Whitely Bennett hopes to continue making a mentor and a role model,” said Bennett. Herman’s Hermits sold over 52 million resolutions that would go on to the tribal yelled over at me to come introduce myself,” his tribe proud through his academic “These kids see western North Carolina and recordings. In all, 14 singles and seven council. said Bennett, who is now a sophomore accomplishments. He plans to continue think that they can’t get out of there,” he albums went gold. Bennett said he has been fascinated with majoring in history with a minor in political working closely with the university to recruit added. But Bennett said that he and others his community and the policies that affect science. “From there, our bond just grew — more Native American students. his age, are “working hard to show them that it since he was a child. Though life on his she’s like a second mom to me.” As he prepares to enter his second anything is possible.” 4B • The Seminole Tribune • May 31, 2021 Q & A with the bestselling author of ‘Firekeeper’s Daughter’ BY DAMON SCOTT What has the reaction been from enacted, the funding was not adequate to Staff Reporter Indian Country about the novel? recognize all tribes. My family comes from the Sugar Island It has been incredibly supportive. The Band of Ojibwe and had been seeking Angeline Boulley (Sault Ste. Marie most surprising and wonderful thing was recognition for decades. When we finally Tribe of Chippewa Indians) is a writer when an Ojibwe woman I met tried to tell received recognition in the 1970s, it was who often tells stories about the Ojibwe me how much the story meant to her. We as the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa community where she lives in Michigan’s shared a look that conveyed everything she Indians and included a number of historic upper peninsula. couldn’t put into words. That moment was bands lumped together. In my view, the One of her stories is now a commercial everything. heavy hand of the BIA fostered deep discord success: the New York Times bestselling within my tribe that continues to impact our debut novel – “Firekeeper’s Daughter” – Have you gotten feedback from young citizens today. And my tribe isn’t an isolated about an Ojibwe teen who goes undercover adults? example. to root out corruption in her community. The novel is written for young adults Yes. I’ve done a few in-person book You write about drug use, racism, and has been celebrated in recent weeks signings in my tribal community and murder and sexual assault in the book by Secretary of the Interior, Deb Haaland received great feedback from teen readers. I – what can you say about those issues in (Laguna Pueblo) and Rep. Sharice Davids absolutely love fan art, which is something Indian Country? (Ho-Chunk) of Kansas, among other Indian that young adult readers draw of the Country dignitaries, authors and critics. characters and favorite scenes. These are issues that disproportionately Boulley credits a network of strong impact Indian Country because of Native American women – relatives and You write about enrolled versus un- jurisdictional quagmires, inadequate federal friends – who have shaped her life and work. enrolled tribal members. How much resources to address crimes, deficient The title is a nod to her father, a traditional crime data collection, and the lack of Courtesy image tension is there? Amber Boulley firekeeper and one of her greatest teachers, communication and cooperation between Author Angeline Boulley “Firekeeper’s Daughter” gained quick she said, who lights ceremonial fires during How much? I couldn’t say. The really agencies. Recent federal actions are a notoriety after its release. spiritual activities in her tribal community. interesting thing is how many tribes have promising start to address these issues. Lara Croft.” Except instead of raiding The book is set to be adapted for stories about the role of the [Bureau of Editor’s note: Firekeeper’s Daughter television by Netflix. Indian Affairs] in developing their tribal What’s next for you? tombs, the main character will be reclaiming ancestral remains and sacred items from is available for purchase through several The Seminole Tribune asked Boulley constitutions. Some tribes had enrollment booksellers. via email about the book and its themes. criteria imposed upon them as a condition of I’m working on my second book. If museums and private collectors to return Responses have been edited for length and getting a constitution approved. Also, when Firekeeper’s Daughter was “Indigenous home – until one of her heists goes very clarity. the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934 was Nancy Drew,” then book two is “Indigenous badly. Elgin Jumper’s ‘Nightfall, the Novel’ BY ELGIN JUMPER to find someone to ride with me. We’ll need You know, Lo’, the Works. And then, here coming to blows with a wizard. Trace set his and concluded lotsa women had tattoos these to fuel up, we’ll need to-Dang, Comanche.” come Comanche. Up to his ol’ tricks again. hazard lights to blinkin. days. Trace, he thought to himself, you’ve Editor’s note: This is the first part of an “Oh my god-Come get me, Trace, It’s intrigue and machinations, I’m almost “Oh my god,” Trace managed, “let me got some imagination. excerpt from chapter five of “Nightfall, The there’s no other way!” certain of it.” pull it over, if I can.” Trace was looking out the back window, Novel,” by Elgin Jumper. The second part “Okay, okay, it’s gonna take at least like, “Aww, come on now,” Lobo said. On the right, there was a short gravel when Ashley’s cellphone began to go off. will be in the June 30 edition of the Tribune. 2, 3 hours to get out there. Try an be out by “But I’m sorta thinking we’ll have this road, leading to the rickety gate of a fenced- She took the call with some loudness and the road. I don’t even know the name of that over inside of four, five hours.” in cow pasture. Trace barely steered the urgency. She hung up after a short, heated Well, one thing was clear, it was time road. Stay calm. I’ll be out there. And call “Well, let’s hope so. Hey maybe ol’ Dodge Neon to a stop there, while three conversation. for another story: again, if they’ll let you.” Comanche just needs an intervention.” cows, interupted in their dinner by the new She peered at Trace. “Just received “Let’s do this!” Uncle Wilbur said, “Okay . . .” All Trace could hear after “Do me a favor, okay,” he said, “Don’t development, glanced over, momentarily, some urgent news,” she said, “and we’re rubbing his palms together. that was dial tone. say that around him. He’s so self-conscious.” and then, went back to chompin grass in the gonna make a quick detour just to check on “Okay, let’s go, I’m thinking of a When it came down to it, Trace really “Don’t worry, I won’t,” Lobo reassured. night. Mosquitos hovered and struck from something. It’s just a little ways up on the modern-day Everglades adventure story,” I wasn’t that bent out of shape about going out “So it’s 8PM now, right? We should be back time to time. left by the bridges. It can’t be help.” She began, “Seminole characters and all. It all to the middle of nowhere and picking up his in Hollywood say by 12PM, somewhere Lobo giggled. “Dude, your car’s like adjusted the Disco Ball rear-view mirror starts on the Hollywood rez. The main dude, good buddie. Long as he left now and got it around there.” havin a major malfunction,” he said. “So ornament. his name is Trace Wildhorse, a young man in over with the quickness. “Sounds good. I might can even rescue what’s our next move?” “What is it?” Trace asked, fear in his his late-20s. He recently broke up with his Trace flipped through his phone, found a lil something of my weekend, after all. I Trace checked his cellphone. “I knew voice. “We’ve a right to know. At least girlfriend. He has long hair, which he keeps his other friend, Lobo Martin’s number. He hope so.” it!” He thought for a moment, and then, unchain us!” He took another look back at tied back in a ponytail. abruptly got Lobo on the line. They were approaching the first rest area in due time, he continued, “No service on Lobo. “He cuts grass for a lawn service “Yello” Lobo my phone. Acts up out “Not enough time, Trace,” Ashley said. company which maintains properties from answered. here. Always does. “There’s been a break-in at my place. And North Miami to Margate. But he’s on a “Hey, Lo,” he And I don’t even know my people say the perpetrators are still on day off today. In truth, he was to have met said. “Trace here. Uh,I what happened to the the scene. I’m gonna catch these fiends in the up with his girlfriend later that night, but gotta drive out and car. I guess we’ll just act if it’s the last thing I do!” she called, claiming an emergency at work. pick up Comanche, try and get someone to No doubt this was traffic school #101, Evidently, she had to take the shift or find out passed BC, headin stop. Maybe they’ll be but on the more extreme side. The vehicles employment elsewhere. And so, Trace is at out towards Clewiston able to help us. And I were moving, with horsepower and peril, home now, looking to salvage the rest of the way. I mean, if you only brought a couple with the big truck roaring out like a shattered weekend with an action-adventure ain’t too busy, I hundred bucks. We’ll mythical beast of the swamps. The two men movie marathon!” sure could use some just wait for someone, hypothetically could’ve leaped from the “Yes, sir,” Uncle Wilbur said, while company for the ride okay?” truck and car, earlier, but they were stunned negotiating traffic. out. Whaddayousay?” Trace could see and undergoing brief inaction. By the time I gazed up and beyond the windshield, Lobo took a headlights drawing they overcame it, it was too late. They passed to the white clouds and blue sky. “He was to moment to respond. near from the direction a sign indicating the bounderies of the Big have had his thermostat repaired, it wasn’t “Whoa, Trace,” they’d come, it was an Cypress Seminole Indian Reservation. working the way it should’ve been, but the Lobo answered. “Slow ominous dark green Trace was desperately trying to get a repairman had contacted him, saying the your roll. Everglades? monster of a truck. handle on the kinetic forces at work here. visit couldn’t be made till the following Comanche partyin Trace and Lobo, both, There was a terrible speed to the thing, and week. So no AC, nor company. again?” shuddered. The big a tightening and slackening of the heavy “Geez,” Uncle Wilbur muttered. “Yeah, buddie. truck roared up and chain, wild turns, crazy bumps, and the “And yet, he’s determined to salvage Come on, Lo’, I feel pulled in right behind truck’s sudden encounters with potholes. sorry for the guy. Let’s Beverly Bidney them. He checked behind them again. Lobo was, the situation,” I explained. “It’s Memorial Seminole artist and writer Elgin Jumper Day weekend, for heaven’s sake, 3 days of go get ‘im.” “Stay calm,” Trace without a doubt, in dire straits. Trace fretted movie-watching bliss, and oh yes, relaxation More silence. urged. “Stay close and agonized over the entire state of affairs. – so yes, he was looking forward to it! Trace shrugged. together.” He closed the Large tires howled. Trace tried to deal with “His cellphone never rings, so he’s “Okay,” Lobo said, “I’ll ride.” on Alligator Alley, also known as I-75. They distance between him and Lobo. the accelerations and decelerations, smoke predicting a nice peaceful time ahead, and And so, within an hour, Trace, and went over an overpass, where on both sides A large woman, in worn blue jeans, short and dust and the horrible engine thundering perhaps, just perhaps, his girlfriend will Lobo, with a ridiculously spiked haircut, of the four-lane Interstate stood restrooms sleeves and tattoos, and holding a strong, noise down Snake Road! show. It could happen, he thought to himself. were fueled up, caffeined down, and heading and observation decks and travelers milling sizeable chain, got out of the big truck and “Oh my god!” Trace yelled. “This is He’s got his popcorn, his soda, and his stacks west on 595 in Trace’s silver Dodge Neon, about. They passed the area, making short of walked up to them. crazy! You might be certifiable!” of dvds and bluerays. How many movies can dubbed, “The Silver Bullet” by fellow it and after four or five more bridges and rest Trace had tracked her with his eyes. He rolled the window down and tried he watch in a 3 day weekend? Only Time reservationers. areas, they made a right at a gas station and It was just like one of them horror movies to shout words of encouragement back to will tell. Shall he begin with Stallone? Or “Wow, so your girlfriend stood you convenience store. he sometimes threw in with the action- Lobo. “Just hold on, Lo’. We’re gonna get Swarzenegger? Norris? So many titles. So up, huh?” Lobo asked. “Just like that? No It was quite crowded, but they stayed on adventure flicks. through this!” He sighed and thought, I so many stars.” rhyme, nor reason?” course down the winding two-lane roadway, The broad-shouldered woman said, hope Lo’ heard me. “Alrighty, then.” Uncle Wilbur nodded. Trace said, “Lo’, it’s beyond me.” for this was “Snake Road,” a sinuous rural “Appears y’all havin car troubles. It began to storm, with flashing lightning I cleared my throat right quick. “Uh, ladies and gentlemen, Elvis has road zig-zagging through the Everglades, Anything I can do to help? What’s the and rolling thunder. Ashley said, “Blessed “So Ol’ Trace is at home a-chillin like left the building.” and leading on to the Big Cypress Seminole matter?” be, bringth down thy Rain and Thunder.” Bob Dylan,” I said. “For no other lawn “Tell me about it. What would Gandalf Indian Reservation. Trace said, “We think it’s the catalytic Just then, Ashley turned down a dusty, service worker, throughout the ages, had do?” The watery region alternated between converter, but we’re not for sure.” dirt road paralleling a long canal and two ever come up with such an awesome idea as “Wait. Does Gandalf have a lady?” rain and heat and canals and small ponds “Well, if you want,” the big woman bridges. They were now near the residential this one. Ever since Time Immemorial! Heh- Lobo asked. with cattails and hyacinth intermingled said, “my cousin is a mechanic, a decent area of the Big Cypress reservation. heh. A Non-stop Action-Adventure Movie Trace was obsessed with the Wizard, with cow pastures and swamp marshes. And one, too, and he lives on the other side of Ashley gunned her engine, Lobo and Marathon! Okay, so check this out, Uncle, Gandalf from The Hobbit and The Lord of sometimes you could see deer, raccoons, the rez. Here, I’ve got a chain to pull you the Silver Bullet trailing behind, causing Trace walks from his kitchen into his living- the Rings fame. possums, turtles, alligators, and of course, on over, if you like. I’m Ashley, by the way. grave distress and turmoil. She was totally room, right ... “No, no, he’s just Gandalf, the Grey,” snakes. And at night, bears and panthers What do you say? Beats standing out here oblivious to the two men. She shook a Trace walked into his living-room, from Trace said, “or Gandalf, the White.” He came out from the woods, onto the road. with the cows and the critters. The skeeters. massive fist out the window. Soon she turned the kitchen, like a Rez Monarch, prepared for gestured with his hands, as if he was a “So Gandalf goes against this ancient Dangerous.” a long driveway leading up to huge house. a long holiday weekend of action-adventure Seminole Wizard. demon in Rings, right,” Trace said, in “We-We’d sure appreciate it,” Trace Lights were on and there were pine trees and movie-watching. “Ah, touche’. But still. And you still conversation, “but of course, Gandalf gets said. “I’m Trace and he’s, Lobo. We were on shrubbery in the yard, several menacing- He was on the verge of shutting off have your health.” the better of ‘im.” our way to pick up a friend, when we heard looking cars out front. his cellphone, when it started going off! “Hold on, now, in terms of Gandalf, “Oh yeah?” Lobo said. “I don’t believe a loud bang from under the hood. Car went Trace braced for trouble as Ashley tore Caller ID said Stan Jensen, also known as there is, Galadriel, sorta. You know, The I’ve seen that one. Go on.” to lurking forward, jumpin around, and then, in to a frightening stop in front of the house! “Comanche” a fellow co-worker in lawn Lady of Light.” “They have to pass this flimsy bridge everything just up and quit.” Ashley took a large pistol from the service. Lobo glanced over to make a point. inside a mountain,” Trace explained. “only There were hand-shakes all around, as glove-compartment and stormed off into the “Hello,” Trace said into his phone. “Hey,” Lobo said, leaning back. “we this ancient demon guy, a tad displeased at an occasional car passed by. Trace, ponytail house, shouting and wailing to the heavens! “Trace, man!” Comanche exclaimed. talkin about Gandalf or we talkin bout you, being woke up from a nap, mind you, goes to in full array, directed Lobo to the driver’s “Let me check on Lobo,” Trace said. “I-I need your help, bro! I messed up.” heh-heh.” runnin amok, bigtime. He brandishes a fiery seat of the Silver Bullet, while Ashley As he ran back to his car, he could hear a “Messed up? What is it?” Trace asked. By now, they were approaching the toll- whip and stuff. Oh, Pure Cinema, I tell you, secured the chain to both vehicles and got frightful commotion taking place inside. “I’m stranded out here near BC.” gate at 27, where the modern-day Everglades heh-heh.” back into her truck. And then, here came the gunplay. Someone “Big Cypress?” began. Trace glanced over at the expanse of “Oh okay.” To Lobo, Trace said, “So get the car was screaming. Someone was shouting. “I was out with some folks last night,” sawgrass and murky water on both sides of “So the ancient demon dude is closing back onto the road and I think she’ll hook it Trace and Lobo, having made it through Comanche revealed. “Just lost track. I didn’t 595. He imagined a running battle between in, flames all around, but Gandalf, whose got up again from the front. I’ll ride with her and the dreadful towing, ducked for cover in realize.” phantom warriors and phantom soldiers. He this powerful staff, right, you know, you just keep it on the road, hear. I’m sure the Silver Bullet. And that was when two “Dang, Comanche,” Trace said, “Where scratched his head and thought no more of one of those long sticks, and his has a she’ll take it slow.” darkly-clad figures charged out from the are you? And please, be more specific.” it. He had a toll-gate and “Alligator Alley” glow on the tip, I think, way cool. Sorta like And so, the Silver Bullet, with Lobo house, guns all ablaze. “I’m just north of BC rez, headin out to get through Moses from the Bible had but I don’t know behind the wheel, was secured from the “Let’s get out of here, Lo’!” Trace cried. towards Clewiston, well, least that’s what “Uh, three bucks, Lo’.” Trace said, if his glowed, too, anyways, Gandalf brings front, after it was pulled back onto Snake “Never mind the car!” I’ve been able to gather. Uh, I’m at these referring to the cost of the toll. He nodded it up and slams the bottom of it down harder Road. Trace and Ashley got into Ashley’s “Thank you!” Lobo exclaimed. people’s house, they’re letting me use their towards the center console. than a glare from an enemy.” dark ride. They vaulted out of the car and moved phone. Please, Trace, you’re my only hope.” “Gotcha,” Lobo said, rummaging Trace actually held his hands up and Ashley pointed to the north. “Follow and took cover from various points, away “Comanche! You can’t keep doing this, the console, picking through quarters and went through the motions in the air. “Then me!” she roared. She chuckled, but her joke from the awful shootout. They dodged buddie.” dimes and crumpled dollar bills. He located Gandalf shouts: “You shall not pass!” was lost on the two men. However, they dangers aplenty and came up to one of the “I know, I know,” Comanche lamented. the appropriate amount in no time flat and Just then - BANG! - “the Silver Bullet” did give more thank yous. Trace looked in vehicles up front, a black pick-up truck “And I’m broke, too. Please do this for me, handed it on over. At the toll-gates, they emited a resounding bang! And thus began both directions, making sure no cars were that had sustained round upon round in the bro, I’ll so owe bigtime, I promise.” slowed up, paid the charge, and continued a slow, excruciating crawl and with only 10 approaching. Fortunately none were. firefight. Quickly they jumped into the back “You’ll be ruining my weekend plans.” on into the vastness of the modern-day minutes on Snake Road. The vehicle jumped The big truck lurched forward, wresting of the pick-up. They covered themselves in “Trace, I’m scared, you’ve got help Everglades. and lunged and imitated a raging, bucking Lobo and the Dodge Neon behind it. Trace an old blue tarp. me.” Trace smiled. “So I had this Grand bull in a rodeo. “Yee-haw!” Lobo cried, as glanced back every now and then, and at one “Careful now,” Trace warned in a low “If I go, I’m not going alone. I’ll have Memorial Day Weekend planned, right? tires shrieked and the engine hurled out a stage, he thought, I hope she’s not in some voice. You know how I roll: Movies. Munchies. monstrous noise, as if it was a mythical beast gang or something. He thought more on it 5B • The Seminole Tribune • May 31, 2021 Sports C Brighton’s Trevor Thomas finishes Ahnie senior season with one more to go Jumper’s

BY KEVIN JOHNSON FGCU Senior Editor career WEST PALM BEACH — Trevor Thomas will keep playing baseball for as long as he can. ends Back when Thomas graduated from Okeechobee High School in 2017 after BY KEVIN JOHNSON playing four years for the Brahmans, he Senior Editor wasn’t sure if he had played his final game. The 6-foot-1, 170-pound outfielder from After sweeping Stetson in the Atlantic the Brighton Reservation still had a strong Sun quarterfinals, the Florida Gulf Coast desire to continue playing, but didn’t know University softball team appeared ready if or where he could play collegiately. His to make a strong run for the conference decision to play in a junior college showcase championship. – hoping a school would notice him – proved The Eagles’ bats, however, fell quiet to be a smart move. Thomas was noticed in the double-elimination portion of the by a coach from Warner University, and, championship in Kennesaw, Georgia. soon after, had a place that he’s called his FGCU lost to host Kennesaw State, academic and baseball home for the past 8-1, May 13. The following day the Eagles’ four years. season ended with a 3-1 loss in eight innings It turns out Thomas’s baseball career at to Jacksonville University. Warner will be four years, plus one. The loss marked the final game for Because the pandemic forced spring eight FGCU seniors, including the Seminole sports to cease early last year, players were Tribe’s Ahnie Jumper. “I want to thank our eight seniors for what they have given to this program over the past four years. It was a unique season to say the least and one we’ll remember for a long time,” said FGCU coach Dave Deiros. Jumper, who played in 28 games this Kevin Johnson season, did not play in the final three regular Warner University outfielder Trevor Thomas, right, recently earned a degree and completed his senior season. He’ll return next season as a postgraduate. season games and four postseason games. The last game she appeared in was the team’s given another year of eligibility. Thomas won 18-16 as the teams combined for “I was pretty happy with the way the senior day game April 25. didn’t hesitate in making his decision. staggering numbers, including 38 hits, five season went,” Thomas said. “I played good Jumper, a catcher, was in the starting “I wanted to play another year,” said home runs, 15 walks and 25 runners left on defense. I didn’t hit as well as I wanted.” lineup 24 times this season. She finished Thomas, who will return next season in Lake base. Thomas certainly was firing on all with a .214 batting average with six hits, Wales as a graduate student. After the tournaent, Warner received cylinders April 10 in Miami Gardens. He including two doubles, two RBIs and six runs As for this season, Warner made some a bid to the NAIA regionals in Tennessee, went 3-for-4 with three RBIs, two doubles, scored. Three of her hits came in a 3-for-3 noise in the Sun Conference tournament but went 0-2 with a 10-9 loss to Indiana one walk and two runs scored in a 14-13 win performance March 13 against Stetson. in May. Seeded No. 5 in the six-team University Southeast and a 7-3 loss to against Florida Memorial. His RBI double In her four-year career, Jumper, one of tournament, Warner surprised some people University of Northwestern Ohio. Despite knotted the game at 13-13. the few Seminoles to ever play for an NCAA by winning its first two games. The Royals the setback, Thomas looked at the bright Thomas said he hadn’t been hitting well Division I team, appeared in 120 games. She were within two outs of advancing to the side. leading up to the game and was surprised had a .205 batting average with 17 hits, five championship, but failed to hold a three- “It was a great experience. Good when he saw his name in the starting lineup. doubles, eight RBIs and four stolen bases. run lead and fell to the University of South tournament, good teams, and it was a nice Off the field, Thomas, son of Gene and FGCU finished this season with a 28-19 Carolina-Beaufort, 6-5, in 10 innings May 8 scenery change,” said Thomas, who played Michele Thomas, graduated this spring with overall record and a 15-3 mark in the ASun. at the Ballpark of the Palm Beaches in West in a defensive role late in the Indiana game a degree in agribusiness. He plans to pursue Palm Beach. Warner was ousted from the and did not play in the season finale. a master’s degree in business administration. Kevin Johnson tournament with a loss the next day. For the season, Thomas’s roles When his academic days are done, he hopes Trevor Thomas warms up before Warner’s game Thomas came off the bench late in the fluctuated between being a starter and a sub. to get a job on a ranch and work his way up against Keiser in the Sun Conference tournament tournament opener against St. Thomas and He batted .220 with 11 hits and six RBIs in through the business, preferably working for in West Palm Beach. notched a single in his only at-bat. Warner 50 trips. the tribe.

Changeup benefits Immokalee Kevin Johnson Florida Gulf Coast University catcher pitcher Ahnie Jumper Ava Nunez Two straight top- 20 finishes for BY KEVIN JOHNSON Senior Editor Gabby Lemieux on Symetra Tour Ava Nunez expanded her pitching options this season as the Immokalee High STAFF REPORT School junior worked a changeup into her repertoire. “She grew a lot,” said Immokalee Gabby Lemieux is trending in the right softball coach Ruben Lucio. “She’s always direction on the Symetra Tour. been a power pitcher.” Lemieux (Shoshone-Paiute Tribes) During the season, Nunez, the only posted two consecutive top-20 finishes on the Seminole on this year’s team, started LPGA’s minor league circuit in recent weeks. throwing off-speed pitches in addition to her She produced her best finish as a pro usual heat. with a tie for eighth at the Garden City Charity Classic at Buffalo Dunes from April “She’s got a great changeup. It changes Beverly Bidney the way [she] can attack certain lineups,” 22-24 in Hurricane, Utah. She shot 71-73-73 Immokalee High School starting pitcher Ava Nunez delivers a pitch against Fort Myers in a regional quarterfinal game May 6 at Fort Myers High School. Lucio said. to finish at 1-over par and nine strokes behind Nunez averaged one strikeout per winner Lilia Vu. inning as she finished with 87 Ks in as many The previous week Lemieux finished innings. She fanned a season-high 13 against 17th at the Copper Rock Championship in Clewiston and 11 in a regular season game Garden City, Kansas. Her scores were 74-74- against Barron Collier. 71. It was in a critical postseason game The Symetra Tour made its first of two against Barron Collier that Nunez shined straight Florida stops May 21-23 in the IOA the brightest. She allowed just three hits, no Golf Classic in Longwood. Lemieux shot 79- earned runs and struck out six in six innings 74 and missed the cut. as Immokalee edged Barron Collier 1-0 in a district semifinal April 27. The victory sealed a spot in the regional tournament for Immokalee and ended Barron Collier’s season. Nunez finished with a 2.27 ERA and 10-8 record. She faced some of the toughest teams in the Miami/Fort Lauderdale area, including Class 6A state champion Doral Academy, and Westminster, which reached the Class 3A state semifinals. Nunez played third base when she wasn’t pitching. Offensively, she batted .266 with five doubles, two triples and 12 RBIs. Lucio said Nunez battled a couple injuries that impacted her batting. Immokalee, which finished with a 17- 12 record, should be back in the hunt for a district title next season. The team loses only Symetra Tour two seniors from this year’s squad and will Beverly Bidney Gabby Lemieux return 12 players with varsity experience. Ava Nunez, third from left, and her Immokalee teammates get ready to face Fort Myers in a playoff game. 6B • The Seminole Tribune • May 31, 2021 WNBA team’s new uniforms honor Mohegan Tribe

BY KEVIN JOHNSON Senior Editor “An advocate for social justice, Gladys fought for her Mohegan people by supporting traditional Mohegan religion, preserving The Connecticut Sun will wear uniforms our homelands and mother earth, saving that pay tribute to the culture and history of traditional ceremonies and passing on our the WNBA team’s owner. stories,” said Beth Regan “Morning Deer,” The Sun are owned by the Mohegan vice chairwoman of the Mohegan Tribal Tribe and play home games at the tribe’s Council of Elders. “She promoted social casino resort in Uncasville, Connecticut. The justice for all people of color, fighting for three editions of uniforms, unveiled April 8, Civil Rights in addition to advocating for and were made by Nike. working with imprisoned women, offering “We were very pleased with the entire hope and courage to those with little. She is uniform design process,” Kathy Regan- an inspiration to me to always walk the life Pyne, recording secretary of the Mohegan trails with Mohegan good medicine in my Tribal Council, said in a statement. “Nike heart and spirit.” demonstrated their commitment to getting According to the team, specific details it right, they consulted and worked with us of the royal blue uniform include: as a team. Members of the Tribal Council – The neckline represents the canoes the and Council of Elders, our Chief and our tribe used to travel along the Massapequataug Medicine Woman were all involved in some River. fashion. It was a collaborative effort we all – The trim showcases the ups and downs absolutely love the end result.” of life, as life is not linear. It also represents The uniforms incorporate “tradition, the rolling hills of the tribe’s homeland. symbolism and the ideology of being one – The dots on the trim of the shorts Courtesy photo with nature; all important components of represent the people and those met along the The Okeechobee High School softball team, which includes the Seminole Tribe’s Mary Huff (head coach), Elle Thomas and Lexi Thomas, celebrate April the Mohegan Tribal culture,” according to a life trail. 29 after defeating South Fork, 5-4, in the Class 5A-District 12 championship game. release. The team’s new primary logo, which – The front of the jersey has the word debuted in January, was derived from an old “Keesusk,” which means sun in the Mohegan Mohegan symbol. language. One of the new uniforms, known Aspects of the other uniform designs Hard work culminates with as the “rebel edition,” honors Gladys include a spiritual life force symbol and 13 Tantaquidgeon, Mohegan’s medicine woman dots on the “heroine edition” that represent who was also an anthropologist, author, tribal the Mohegan creation and the sections of council member and Elder. She lived in three Grandfather Turtle’s back where earth was district title for Okeechobee different centuries and earned admiration created. The “explorer edition” also features from within the tribe and outside of it for her 13 dots, which represent 13 moons of the BY KEVIN JOHNSON dedication to several causes. She attended lunar year and that the Mohegan people Senior Editor the University of Pennsylvania and received are 13 generations removed from their first honorary doctorates from the University of chief, Uncas. Connecticut and Yale University. Born in The uniforms are available for purchase When the Okeechobee High School 1899, she died in 2005 at age 106. at connecticutsun.com. softball team took the field for the first time this season there was no indication this would end up being a championship squad. A 10-0 loss to South Fork on opening day showed that the Brahmans had plenty of room for improvement. And improve they did. By the time the district championship game arrived more than two months later against that same South Fork team, Okeechobee was much stronger. The Brahmans notched close wins against Jensen Beach, Vero Beach and Fort Pierce Central along the way. “Throughout the season, we improved tremendously in all aspects of the game,” said head coach and Seminole tribal member Mary Huff. “Defense was almost flawless in the end. We had better at bats and became more disciplined at the plate. And our mindsets became stronger.” South Fork learned first-hand all about Okeechobee’s improvements. The Kevin Johnson Brahmans stunned South Fork, 5-4, on Elle Thomas, shown here on second base in a game against Moore Haven, had a hit and RBI in the April 29 to capture the Class 5A-District 12 district championship game. championship. “Everyone counted us out, especially The Thomas sisters – the only players Bayside in the 5A regional quarterfinals. South Fork, and I think that helped fuel our from the tribe on this year’s team – were After the game, Huff, whose team fire,” Huff said. “It was so big for us to beat among the most productive players at the finished with a 9-5 record, emphasized the Connecticut Sun South Fork for the district title. I always say plate throughout the season. They finished importance of continuing to work hard in the This new Connecticut Sun uniform has “Keesusk” on the front, which is the Mohegan word for sun. it’s not where you start, it’s where you finish in the top four in hits. Standout games from off-season. and the girls bought in and put in the work Elle Thomas included a 5-RBI night against “I told the team that it’s back to the and they got the outcome they wanted.” Moore Haven and three hits against Jensen drawing board from here. They have to be Elle Thomas helped spark the victory. Beach. sure to keep putting in the work in the off- The junior shortstop went 1-for-2 with an Lexi Thomas had three two-hit games. season if they want to be back and have a Canaan Jumper shines in brief RBI, a walk and run scored. Lexi Thomas The freshman outfielder scored the team’s deep run in postseason play,” she said. also scored a run and drew a walk. lone run in the season finale, a 2-1 loss to time with Heritage varsity

BY KEVIN JOHNSON Support pours in for Oilers’ Indigenous player Senior Editor after he becomes target of racist comments PLANTATION — Canaan Jumper, of the Big Cypress Reservation, made the most BY SAM LASKARIS community.” of her brief time with the American Heritage Windspeaker.com Bear himself issued a two-minute video varsity softball squad this season. on May 24. Jumper, a junior first baseman, saw “As you know, I’ve been subject to action for the Patriots late in the season. The Edmonton Oilers’ season ended She went 2-for-2 with a double and May 25, but the National Hockey League racist behaviour on social media,” he said. “I know this doesn’t represent all Oilers’ fans run scored in a 15-0 win against Westland squad and, in particular, its Indigenous Hialeah in a district playoff semifinal April defenceman Ethan Bear, continue to fight an or hockey fans and I greatly appreciate all your support and love during this time.” 27. off-ice battle. Two days later she went 1-for-2 with The Oilers were swept 4-0 by the Bear added he will do his part to create change. an RBI as Heritage cruised to a district Winnipeg Jets in their best-of-seven, first- championship win, 16-1, against Mater round playoff series. “I’m here to stand up to this behaviour, to these comments,” he said. “I’m proud of Lakes Academy. Winnipeg clinched the series with a 4-3 Thanks to victories against St. Brendan triple overtime victory in Game 4. That game where I come from. I’m proud to be from Ochapowace First Nation. And I’m not just (10-0), Key West (5-0) and Pompano Beach began May 24 but because of its lengthy (2-1), Heritage reached the state semifinals OT sessions was not completed until the doing this for myself. I’m doing this for all people of colour. I’m doing this for the next May 20. The Patriots appeared to be headed following morning. to the state championship game after they Afterwards, Bear, who is Cree from generation, to help make change, to love one another, to support one another, to be kind to built an 8-2 lead against Hernando through Ochapowace Nation in Saskatchewan, had four innings in the semifinals, but they racist comments directed at him via social each other,” Bear said. “There’s no place for racism in our watched their chance to capture a ninth media. Some felt he was to blame for the state championship slip away as Hernando Kevin Johnson club’s Game 4 loss because of an untimely ESPN communities, in sports or in our workplace. So, I call on all of us to help make change rallied for a 9-8 win. Jumper did not play in American Heritage’s Canaan Jumper fields line change that led to the winning goal. Edmonton Oilers defenseman Ethan Bear the game. groundballs during warm-ups prior to a regional Bear’s girlfriend Lenasia Ned posted and to end racism. We all deserve to be (Cree/Ochapowace Nation) treated fairly. And, at the end of the day, I The loss culminated a unique season for quarterfinal against St. Brendan on May 5. on her social media May 25 about the racist the Patriots, a traditional state powerhouse behaviour and comments Bear was receiving in Saskatchewan represent the qualities think we’ll get there,” his video statement continued. that uncharacteristically lost seven of their Heritage standout Ahnie Jumper, who went online. any organization could possibly ask of its first eight games. Heritage rebounded to on to play for Florida Gulf Coast University “To hide behind a screen is cowardly,” members. On the morning of May 26 the Confederacy of Treaty Six First Nations finish with a 15-9 record. after being a part of a few state titles. she wrote. “But to use stereotypes against “These comments also fly in the face Jumper is the younger sister of former him as an Indigenous person is dehumanizing of the work the organization has done to Chiefs issued a news release not only and awful.” embrace reconciliation and build a strong condemning the racist and discriminatory Ned also had praise for Bear, a 23-year- and positive relationship with our Indigenous comments made towards Bear. The old who completed his second full season community. We call upon everyone in Oil release also expressed concern the Oilers’ with the Oilers. Country to stand up to racism, call out hatred organization had yet to respond. 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It’s disgusting,” Holland said. “We stand against the comments that “While we have witnessed progress in “There’s no place in our world for racism.” are roaming around the spectrum in Ethan A55402 2013 FORD SUV EXPLORER XLT (FWD) 131,852 Fair $8,478.00 the area of equality and inclusion, this Holland also raved about Bear as a Bear’s name and are far more disappointed reprehensible behaviour demonstrates we hockey player and as a person. in the fans of the hockey world,” read part still have significant work to do. Ethan “Ethan is an unbelievable young man,” of the statement. “Shame on the people personally attacking him and taking this to Bear is an incredibly skilled hockey player he said. “He’s a tremendous role model for all Note - Previously advertised items are not reflected on this advertisement, only new listings. For more information contact Fixed Assets Dept. 954-967- and a beloved teammate. His community- young athletes and especially the Indigenous an unnecessary extreme level, that is not 3640, 954-966-6300 ext. 20034. minded efforts both here in Edmonton and humane and doesn’t belong in hockey.” NEW!! - Tribal Members only- access this information at the website: http://semtribe.com/FixedAssets. (Registration required)