May 30 2019 Seminole Tribune

Community center Preschool Coach Mary Huff leads opens in Big Cypress graduations OHS on playoff push COMMUNITY v 3A EDUCATION v 2B SPORTS v 1C

Volume XLIII • Number 5 May 31, 2019 HRI Tribe honors its first Miss Indian World expands Chairman: Truly an historic occasion for the Seminole Tribe of Florida BY KEVIN JOHNSON hotel Senior Editor

HOLLYWOOD — After proudly footprint representing the Seminole Tribe of Florida on her way to winning the Miss Indian World crown, Cheyenne Kippenberger received a in Spain hero’s welcome as the Tribe showed how proud it is of this rising star who is eager to BY DAMON SCOTT share with the rest of the Tribe and Indian Staff Reporter Country her remarkable story of triumph over doubts and struggles. Hundreds of people, including Next up: Hard Rock Hotel Madrid. Kippenberger’s family and elected officials, Coming soon: Barcelona joins the party. filled a banquet room at Seminole Hard Rock Hard Rock International keeps, well, Hotel & Casino Hollywood for a Sunday going international. It announced its third luncheon May 19 in Kippenberger’s honor. hotel development in Spain – Hard Rock Lavonne Rose – Kippenberger’s aunt Hotel Barcelona. The $223 million project is and the Tribe’s Secretary – emceed the two- expected to open in 2022. Construction is set hour ceremony. to begin later this year. “Not only did she represent Seminole Officials said Hard Rock Barcelona will women and the Tribe, but she inspired many be located on one of the last available seaside of us – from the little ones to the elders – plots in the city’s metro area. with her friendship, kindness and positive Once completed, it will include 504 attitude. rooms with private balconies overlooking “I can attest to how hard she worked at the Mediterranean Sea. The hotel’s amenities putting her heart and soul into preparing for will include a rooftop terrace and bar with Miss Indian World and the heart and soul swimming pool, two specialty restaurants, a she put into the whole week,” Rose told the lobby bar and a music bar. audience. “This is set to be another ambitious The Tribe’s elected leaders expressed project for Hard Rock International alongside their joy with each taking a turn at the ASG,” Todd Hricko, SVP and head of global podium. Here’s a sampling: hotel development at HRI said in a statement. Chairman Marcellus W. Osceola Jr.: Kevin Johnson “Hard Rock Hotel Barcelona will bring the “This is truly an historic occasion for the Cheyenne Kippenberger, the first Tribal member from the Seminole Tribe of Florida to be crowned Miss Indian World, joins the Tribal Council on May 19 at brand’s dynamic and vibrant hospitality to Seminole Tribe of Florida. For something the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood during a special luncheon in honor of her winning the title. With Kippenberger, from left, are Hollywood Councilman Chris Osceola, Chairman Marcellus W. Osceola Jr., Brighton Councilman Andrew J. Bowers Jr. and President Mitchell Cypress. Kippenberger F See SPAIN on page 7A F See HISTORIC on page 4A was named Miss Indian World on April 27 in New Mexico. Seminoles share Tribe’s culture with Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians

BY BEVERLY BIDNEY to march west to Oklahoma. About 800 than 80 seniors from Big Cypress, Brighton, Staff Reporter Cherokees remained in the mountains and Hollywood, Immokalee, Tampa and Trail. avoided being relocated. Some of today’s The seniors got to know each other during 14,000 Eastern Band of Cherokee members lunch. BIG CYPRESS — Two busses filled are descendants of those who remained. Janice Osceola ran into a friend and with 75 members of the Eastern Band of The same Act provoked the Seminole NAYO softball teammate she hadn’t seen in Cherokee Indians made the trip from North Wars in which the U.S. Army forced all but 30 years or more. She and Virginia Johnson Carolina to the Big Cypress Reservation for a a couple hundred Seminoles to Oklahoma. had a lot to catch up on and seemed to pick cultural exchange May 21. Some Cherokees Those that didn’t go west fought the wars up just where they left off, with warm smiles learned they had more in common with the in the 1800s. Most of today’s Seminole and conversation. Seminole Tribe than they realized. Tribal members are descendants of those President Mitchell Cypress, Big Cypress The cultural exchange began at Billie unconquered warriors. Board Rep. Joe Frank and Big Cypress Swamp Safari where the group went on The Cherokees live in the mountains Councilman Mondo Tiger welcomed the airboats and swamp buggies and watched near Great Smokey Mountain National Park group to the reservation and thanked the Billy Walker wrestle an alligator. Before and they were excited to visit the Everglades. culture department for sharing their skills. Walker began the show, he shared some of the As with the Seminole seniors, this group Tables were set up on one side of the room Tribe’s history dating back to the Seminole chose where they wanted to take a trip and with demonstrations of basketry, patchwork, Wars. When he mentioned Andrew Jackson, they picked the Seminole and Miccosukee beadwork, doll making and carvings for the the Cherokees booed enthusiastically. Tribes. Cherokee to peruse. As the United States’ seventh president, After the morning’s adventure, the After lunch, some of the Cherokee Jackson signed the Indian Removal Act of group traveled to the Herman Osceola Gym 1830 into law, which led to the Trail of Tears for a luncheon and a chance to meet more Beverly Bidney forcing thousands of Native Americans F See CULTURE EXCHANGE on page 6A Ahfachkee School senior Thomlynn Billie vocalizes her appreciation as she receives her high school diploma from Principal Dorothy Cain on May 21 at Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee. 11 graduate from Ahfachkee

BY BEVERLY BIDNEY families. Staff Reporter “This is a special day for you guys,” he said. “Parents, thank you for allowing your children to attend Ahfachkee. Students, you IMMOKALEE — As the 11 members have the key to the world. Explore and enjoy of the Ahfachkee School class of 2019 life, but treasure tonight. It only happens crowded the stage at the Seminole Casino once in a lifetime.” Hotel Immokalee on May 21, their families Big Cypress Board Rep. Joe Frank told filled the enormous Seminole Center the students that as a graduate 47 years ago, ballroom. he was sitting in the “hot, sweaty gym in The joyous event was a celebration of Immokalee High School.” He urged them the students’ hard work and determination not to be afraid, but to be themselves. leading to their graduation from high school “The Creator has given you a mission in and their entry into adulthood. But first, life,” Rep. Frank said. “Your ancestors gave they received words of wisdom from some you a legacy to walk comfortably among all veteran adults. people. The school’s staff provided you with “Your parents are probably wondering all the tools you need to go forth through this where the time went,” said Principal Dorothy century. Don’t be afraid; be yourself.” Cain. “You are social and digital natives, President Mitchell Cypress told the kids you’ve grown up in a digital world. You the Tribe will always have their backs. have the ability to have the world at your “The door is open for whatever you want fingertips and are ready to tackle whatever to do,” he said. “We will back you up; it’s you choose to do.” your turn to go out and explore the world.” Beverly Bidney Big Cypress Councilman Mondo Tiger At right, Linda Beletso shows a bundle of sweetgrass to Sam Tiger and Gene Cunningham of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians during a cultural was impressed with the graduates and their F See AHFACHKEE on page 5B exchange in Big Cypress.

Editorial...... 2A Health...... 9A Sports...... 1C. @TheSeminoleTribune @SeminoleTribune INSIDE: Community...... 3A Education...... 1B 2A • The Seminole Tribune •May 31, 2019 Editorial

Road trip through The fight to protect Indigenous homelands Indigenous sacred sites societies. These made life worth living for forest merely an expression of the power visitors sleep overnight in 30-foot-tall •Jacqueline Keeler everyone—not just the mighty. of an autocratic ruler? With nearly a billion •Shoshi Parks concrete tipis. My people built tipis and hogans, dollars raised in a few days to rebuild the Ironically, writes Peter B. Dedek where relationships were nourished and cathedral, critics on social media contrasted in Hip to the Trip: A Cultural History stories were told around a fire. As I stared that with the minuscule amounts raised to he wind is so powerful on top of Route 66, even as the highway n Chiapas, Mexico, I first considered at the temples, I imagined a lodge—a rebuild black churches burned by arson. of the mesa that even hours thrived on the exploitation of Native the difference between the kind tipi—translucent and glowing from the This quickly garnered more than a million after I’ve returned to the valley American culture and history, it was of society that builds monumental fire inside it, like a heart. The name many dollars of donations for those churches. below,T I’ll be wiping its ancient sand simultaneously excluding actual Native I architecture in stone and the kind that Indigenous people call themselves is often Does one wonder what would happen if from the cracks and crevices of my skin. American people, along with African nurtures great people in buffalo-hide tipis. some derivation of “the people” or even, people donated to help restore the lands and In the Keres language, this is Haak’u, Americans and Latinos, from many of I had arrived at Palenque on a chartered “the real people.” This is what Diné means. homes of tribal nations affected by the recent New Mexico’s Pueblo of Acoma, a sky its businesses. bus after spending a week in this place so My father’s people call themselves Dakota “Bomb Cyclone” in the Great Plains of the city perched on a 300-foot bluff, some Along with the Jim Crow era’s far from the Great Plains and the Southwest, or Lakota (depending on the dialect), which U.S.? And what would happen if the French 7,000 feet above sea level—the oldest ubiquitous “no colored” signs, those the homelands of my father’s people means “allies” and “friends,” emphasizing government, French citizens (including community in the United States. declaring “no dogs, no Indians” were the Dakota and my mother’s people the the connections and relationships that make the billionaires who donated hundreds of Although there is no running water hung in shop windows along the length Diné (also known as Navajo). I was with them a people. Those relationships include millions of Euros), and the Roman Catholic or electricity, around 50 people live on of the highway. a busload of Indigenous representatives the land and all its people. Lakota people Church urged more of the donations to go the mesa year-round in brick homes— Many of the actual Native American from Native nations across the Western are the Buffalo Nation because our story to other overlooked catastrophes like the some covered in wattle and daub, others places, both those occupied since time hemisphere. Tall Lakota men from Alberta begins with transformative contact with a victims of Cyclone Idai in Africa? in adobe—just as their ancestors have immemorial and those Indigenous and South Dakota, sticking out among spiritual being who is a manifestation of the Those donations would be especially since at least the 12th century. people were forced to occupy, are easier their much-shorter brethren, Maya from land itself and transmits instructions on how apt given France’s history of colonization Beyond the pueblo is a 156-square- to miss than their neon-emblazoned, Guatemala and Mapuche from Chile and to live on the Earth. in Africa. Even Victor Hugo, an ardent mile territory of mammoth stone cartoonlike avatars. Kuna from Panama. We ventured down Contrast this to a colonial society whose opponent to American slavery, stumbled formations and cottonwood trees that Though I’m keeping a close eye out the trails of the National Park filled with origin story is rooted in financial incentives when it came to France’s colonization of road trippers traveling Route 66 have for it as I drive out of Kingman, Arizona, towering temples. The Kuna and Inca come and power derived from occupation and Africa. “God offers Africa to Europe,” he been visiting since the 1950s. I almost breeze by the brick, Colonial (from Peru) dressed in colorful dresses, exploitation of other peoples’ lands. said in a speech in 1879 as France brutally But what was once haphazard and Revival-style Truxton Canyon Training speaking quietly but authoritatively in their So, for me, the question monumental conquered Algeria in the name of civilizing unregulated is today a self-sustaining School in neighboring Valentine. languages as we set out. buildings like the temples in Palenque—or it. “Take it.” enterprise directed by the Acoma people Beginning in 1903, this residential I stumbled upon two Puerto Rican the Cathedral of Notre Dame—pose is: What In 2014, the “Conseil des Ventes,” which that welcomed 72,000 visitors on guided school forcibly “educated” the children women, one White and the other Black, kind of relationships do they represent? Are regulates auction sales in France, refused tours last year. “We give them the of the Hualapai Tribe with the intent to leaning with their backs pressed upon the they equitable? Or are they an expression of to suspend the auctioning of masks sacred opportunity to walk our sacred land,” assimilate them into American life. wall of the temple, eyes closed to the sun power over other people and nature? These to Hopi and Navajo people. The French Melvin Juanico, operations manager of By the 1920s, children from and hands pressed palms down to the stone. are questions about French society that agency denied the Hopi tribe possessed any the Pueblo’s Sky City Cultural Center a number of Southwestern tribes, I watched them as they began to chant in Victor Hugo asked in his writing. legal standing to pursue a cultural claim in and Haak’u Museum, tells me. including the Hopi and Navajo, were Spanish, apparently trying to absorb some In the past few days, much has been France. This ruling not only denigrated an It’s one of the dozens of modern sent there. Tucked among brown hills of the energy from the building. made of how The Hunchback of Notre Indigenous nation’s political existence (the and historic Native American places on a bed of dry weeds, the schoolhouse No other members of the Indigenous Dame saved the cathedral by making it a Hopi is a federally recognized tribe which included in a travel guide decolonizing looks out of place in this rural corner of delegation did this. The women in the character in the novel, a sanctuary for the enjoys a nation-to-nation relationship with this most famous of American roads. Arizona. Close to the road is a small, colorful dresses continued to meander innocent Esmeralda, wrongly convicted the U.S. government) but declared Paris I, too, am on the great American impermanent memorial decorated with through the accumulation of buildings and of murder by a cruel and inept system of a haven for the trafficking of the sacred road trip. But not one of the “This Land fake flowers, a monument to those who trees, stopping lightly like birds, pausing justice. items of Indigenous people. This, despite Is Your Land,” Woody Guthrie variety. attended the school over the 34 years of from time to time. In Hugo’s time, the cathedral was France being a signee of the United Nations That Route 66 road trip is one of erasure, its operation. Traveling south, my thoughts were in disrepair. A symbol of a corrupt power Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous one that conceals the Indigenous history With no sign and boarded-up continually drawn back to the north. As I structure, it had been vandalized and defaced Peoples. of this land with the expanding White windows, the historic schoolhouse walked the jungle paths and looked at the during the French Revolution. Stories matter, Klee Benally, a Navajo sacred sites capitalism of early Americana. is worlds away from the modern buildings above me, a pain made its way and the story of Notre Dame at the time activist, told me how he traveled to Paris That Route 66 road trip exploits attractions built and managed by Native up my throat from my heart. I felt grief was that it was a monument to oppression. to get the San Francisco Peaks, which we the stereotype of the “Indian” while American tribes and pueblos along for the prairie, its serene emptiness, where The novel changed that, and the narrative call Doko’oosliid and which is one of our simultaneously denying Native peoples Route 66. Casinos, in particular, serve my heart and my mind could wander at the of the cathedral as a sanctuary has lived on sacred mountains, declared a UNESCO (and other non-White groups) self- as a beacon in the nations of those who center of the world, as central as every bit of worldwide through countless translations World Heritage site. While there, he visited representation and access to the kitschy have won federal recognition and a grass that blew all around me. Here, in this and a Disney film. This humanization Notre Dame. He went in with the throngs motels, diners, and gas stations that major draw for roadside entertainment. jungle, I felt extra—one of many things. As of a building through storytelling makes of tourists and purchased a votive candle. made the so-called “Mother Road” There is, perhaps, no place on Route Native people, we were told that we lacked readers feel an investment in it, even if we Taking it back to Doko’oosliid, he lit it there. famous. 66 that provides a better example of civilization. That we needed the “progress” are not French. And Les Miserables (a new His prayer was that someday they could see A lot of pain is along this road—sites the odds that Native Americans have of Western Expansionism. adaption is now on Masterpiece Theater) our sacred sites in the same way they view of massacre and forced assimilation. historically faced than the Washita In our defense, we often point to the humanized the victims of a criminal system Notre Dame. UNESCO refused to consider But Route 66 is also a story of hope— Battlefield National Historic Site. accomplishments of the Aztec, the Mayas, and society that brutalized the poor and our sacred mountain for consideration as a not just of Native American survival, As dawn broke on Nov. 27, 1868, and the Incas—their empires and towering women, especially. World Heritage site, but maybe someday, if but of success, too. I’m here to explore the 7th U.S. Cavalry, led by Lt. Col. edifices. All this to show we are civilized, But when I watched the roof burn and we had a Navajo Victor Hugo write a novel that road—or at least the portion George Custer, launched an attack on we are human, we are your equals. steeple fall and heard the commentator say telling the story of our relationship to this of it stretching between California a winter settlement of the Southern But as I stared at these temples now that it burned so fast and so hot because sacred being—the Earth and its people— and Oklahoma—and to seek out the Cheyenne along Oklahoma’s Washita before me, I could only think of the ruler the wood was more than 800 years old— the world would come to understand. histories and communities that existed River. who commanded them to be built, and the harvested from oak trees from France’s before Route 66 and still survive today. In what would more accurately sort of society that organized itself in such a ancient forests that are no more. I thought of Jacqueline Keeler wrote this article The e-travel guide American Indians be termed a terrorist insurgency than way to subject some to the needs of others. that forest as it once was and wondered who for YES! Magazine. Jacqueline is Diné/ and Route 66, which the American a “battle,” the army assassinated as My people, the Dakota and the Diné, lived there. Did they have any say about Ihanktonwan Dakota and editor of The Indian and Alaskan Native Tourism many men as they could—between did not build these things and were without it? Did the creatures who lived there? Did Edge of Morning: Native Voices Speak for Association created three years ago, 30 and 60—kidnapped 53 women and kings or nobles or peasants. What we created the trees? What does it say about the nature the Bears Ears. will help me suss out those landmarks children, and shot or slit the throats of instead were the kinship relationships of the agreements between a people and and historic places associated with 25 the community’s 875 horses and mules with land and people that organized our the land, itself? Or was the felling of that Indigenous tribes and pueblos along the so that those who had escaped could not Mother Road. return to reclaim the animals and their When Route 66 opened in 1926, way of life. It took less than 24 hours it was one of the nation’s first long- to wipe the community off the face of A Day of Awareness for missing and haul east-to-west arteries, connecting the Earth. Chicago to Los Angeles. The two- On a freezing March morning, I lane highway gave rural farming solemnly walk the interpretive trail murdered Indigenous women communities throughout the Midwest across the so-called battlefield alone; no and Southwest better access to markets one else is here but the ghosts of those and, in the 1930s, served as the primary who were destroyed in the name of the you to recognize that Indigenous women I am committed to restoring Tribes’ route for drought-weary farmers and country I call home. On the bank of the •Senator Tom Udall matter, and the way our missing and authority to enforce public safety in unemployed laborers to escape the river, tied to tree branches, tattered cloths murdered women cases are handled their communities. I’m determined to Dust Bowl for the promised land of in blues and reds wave in the wind— ear Friend, needs to be corrected.” keep fighting alongside Native women California. prayer flags hung by the Cheyenne and [May 5] is Missing We cannot accept this as the status and Tribal communities. Because this After World War II, the Mother Arapaho for the ancestors they lost. Dand Murdered Indigenous quo. We must do more to make sure tragic epidemic has claimed the lives Road became a route for travel and I mourn with them, not just for this Women Day of Awareness—a day to Tribes have the tools they need to of too many women. leisure, spawning a seemingly endless massacre, but for all of the injustices— call attention to the epidemic of violence keep their communities safe. Here in There are so many ways you can succession of motor lodges, diners, gas the residential schools and stolen against Native women and re-commit Congress, I’m working hard to enact join in on this Day of Awareness. stations, and curio shops catering to homelands, the forced assimilation and ourselves to ending it. measures to do just that. Wearing red – the color of the movement middle-class Americans at the start of broken treaties, the discrimination and The statistics are staggering. One of the best tools we have to do – and sharing your solidarity on social an epic love affair with the automobile. loss of sovereignty—visible on this all- Eighty-four percent of Native women that is the Violence Against Women Act. media are two important ways to add I drive over the San Bernardino American highway. have experienced violence in their In 2013, I was proud to lead the charge your support to the cause and raise Mountains, a chain of bald rock faces I carry this sadness and anger with lifetime. There are more than 5,000 to make sure that Native women were awareness. sweeping dramatically upward from the me as I get back in my truck and head known cases of missing Native women included in VAWA. Now, it’s time to We need to keep working together valley. Once in Barstow, Route 66 dips toward Oklahoma City. And then I see – including at least 78 in New Mexico re-authorize this landmark law – and to make this nation a better, safer place in and out of the four-lane Interstate 40 a sign that informs me I’m entering the – and many more cases go unreported. make sure it includes stronger tribal for Native women and families. for almost 1,300 miles to Oklahoma Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes territory. And in some areas of Indian Country, provisions like those I put forward in Together, we can put an end to the City, just 106 miles short of Tulsa, my I smile to myself: They are still here. Native women are murdered at a rate the Native Youth and Tribal Officer MMIW crisis and demand justice for final destination. ten times the national average. Protection Act and the Justice for Native Native women. Although the Mother Road crosses Shoshi Parks wrote this article for These aren’t just numbers. These Survivors of Sexual Assault Act. These through the nations of multiple tribes The Travel Issue, the Summer 2019 are real people. And this is a real crisis. bills will close important loopholes that and pueblos, the most visible Native edition of YES! Magazine. Parks is an Last December at a Senate Indian let known violent offenders slip through American imagery is muddled and a Bay Area writer and anthropologist. Affairs Committee Hearing I convened, cracks of the justice system and stay on Tom Udall is a U.S. Senator from New generic—Hollywood stereotypes Her work has appeared in Smithsonian I heard from Kimberly Loring-Heavy the streets in Tribal communities. That’s Mexico. seized upon by White businessmen and Magazine, Atlas Obscura, Civil Eats, Runner. Her sister Ashley went missing how we’re going to make headway in mom-and-pop shop owners in the form Fodor’s Travel, and elsewhere. on the Blackfeet Reservation in 2017, the fight against this crisis. of eye-catching tourist traps like Rialto, devastating her family and shocking Every single person deserves to be California’s Wigwam Motel, where her community. Kimberly implored us safe in their own home, which is why to take action. She said, “I am asking

The Seminole Tribune The following deadlines apply to all Advertising: is a member of the submissions to The Seminole Tribune: Advertising rates along with sizes and other Senior Editor: Kevin Johnson, ext. 10715 Advertising: Donna Mason, ext. 10733 Native American Journalists Association. information may be downloaded online at: [email protected] [email protected] Issue: June 28, 2019 http://SeminoleTribune.org/Advertise Letters/emails to the editor must be signed Deadline: June 12, 2019 Staff Reporter: Beverly Bidney, ext. 16466 Contributor: Matheus Goes and may be edited for publication. Postmaster: [email protected] Issue: July 31 30, 2019 Please send address changes to: Subscription rate is $35 per year by mail. Deadline: July 17, 2019 The Seminole Tribune Staff Reporter: Damon Scott, ext. 10704 © 2019 Seminole Tribe of Florida Make checks payable to: 3560 N. State Road 7 [email protected] The Seminole Tribune Issue: August 30, 2019 Hollywood, FL 33021 3560 N. State Road 7 Deadline: August 17, 2019 Staff Reporter: Derrick Tiger, ext. 10729 Hollywood, FL 33021 Publisher: The Seminole Tribe of Florida [email protected] Phone: 954-985-5700 Please note: Submissions that come past Fax: 954-965-2937 deadline will be published in the Phone: 954-985-5700 Intern: Symphony Osceola following issue. [email protected] 3A • The Seminole Tribune • May 31, 2019 Community A To-Pee-Kee-Ke Yak-Ne Community Center opens in BC

BY BEVERLY BIDNEY Office, the center held an open house May growing up who don’t really know about Staff Reporter 3 and welcomed community members to their history and this will be a good place to spend some time inside. learn about it. We are very proud to tell our “This is a place to learn, a place to story; how we came from poverty to where BIG CYPRESS — The newly opened remember and preserve our community,” we are today.” To-Pee-Kee-Ke Yak-Ne Community Center said Quenton Cypress, THPO community Two permanent displays are already is living up to its Ela-pon-ke name; it truly is engagement manager. “We want people in place inside; one about the different “a place to gather” in Big Cypress. to know they can use this building as a reservations and the other about the Seminole Located in the old pool hall next to community resource.” cattle industry. The museum’s oral history the Billie Johns Sr. Ball Field, the building The newly refurbished building office is located in the building, making it was built by the Bureau of Indian Affairs in features new flooring, renovated bathrooms, convenient for Tribal members to come and the 1950s. The newly recognized Seminole comfortable couches and chairs, pool tables, share their history with Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki’s Tribe held Council meetings in the building foosball, pinball and air hockey games. The oral history archive. “Quenton and [Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki oral history coordinator] Justin [Giles] took an idea from Mondo [Tiger] and put it together,” said Paul Backhouse, senior director of the Heritage and Environment Resources Office and THPO Officer. “It’s good to see Quenton, who started at THPO as a SWEP [student work experience program] employee, in charge of this building. This space is for the community to have conversations, learn and talk about things going on around the Tribe.” Tiger also remembered playing outside of the building as a child. There were a lot Beverly Bidney of firsts in the building, including the 4-H Virgina Tommie, Joe Frank, Quenton Cypress and Councilman Mondo Tiger listen as Justin Giles talks projects and cattle owners meetings. about the new To-Pee-Kee-Ke Yak-Ne Community Center in Big Cypress, which had an open house “We lived in chickees with no electricity on May 3. or water,” Councilman Tiger said. “This building had lights; coming here was like going to the big city.” Virginia Tommie also grew up in BC and worked in the Head Start program in the 1970s, which was housed in the building at the time. Over the years, the building has been used for the culture department, senior center, for recreation activities and a pool Beverly Bidney hall. The exterior of the To-Pee-Kee-Ke Yak-Ne Community Center in Big Cypress. “It was also used as a hurricane shelter,” Tommie said. “I remember being here during Hurricane Donna. Back then we were living as Tribal children played outside. space can be configured in a variety of ways in chickees so we had to come here to stay “We used to come here to sit and listen, to accommodate different types of functions. safe. I think it’s good that it will be useful but we just wanted to play,” said BC Board Community events, graduations, birthday again.” Rep. Joe Frank. “We ran around and played parties and meetings are just some of the games outside, but you’d hear the adults uses for the To-Pee-Kee-Ke Yak-Ne. A few debating issues in there. The conversation departments have already held meetings was heated, but controlled. It’s good to see there. this building being put back to use to benefit “We’ve had a lot of tourists come Beverly Bidney our community and Tribe.” through here and I thought this could Edna McDuffie talks to Theresa Jumper next to Operated by the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki be a good information center,” said BC the displays of reservations at the To-Pee-Kee- Museum and the Tribal Historic Preservation Councilman Mondo Tiger. “We have kids Ke Yak-Ne Community Center open house.

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RV Camping • Cabins • Dining • Spa • Bike Riding • Fishing 4A • The Seminole Tribune • May 31, 2019 Miss Indian World – Cheyenne Kippenberger – plans year with crown

BY DAMON SCOTT Staff Reporter

HOLLYWOOD — The buzz has continued even if the dust has settled a bit. Cheyenne Kippenberger – formerly Miss Florida Seminole and now Miss Indian World – has been riding a wave of excitement since being crowned April 27 in Albuquerque, New Mexico. It’s the first time a Seminole Tribe of Florida member has been crowned Miss Indian World. “I was very shocked, actually. My initial goal – you always have high hopes – was to get ‘best’ in any category. We haven’t [even] had that before,” Kippenberger said. Kippenberger earned the crown – and two “best” awards – after four days of competition among 17 other contestants during the annual Gathering of Nations Powwow. She did it in front of sold out crowds and thousands of dancers and drummers from hundreds of Tribal Nations. The 23-year-old from the Hollywood Reservation is the 36th Miss Indian World. She is the daughter of Joe and Susan Kippenberger. Kippenberger graduated from Keiser University in Fort Lauderdale with a degree in accounting. Preparation for the competition happened in concert with Wanda Bowers who oversees the Tribe’s princess program. Bowers said she kept it to herself, but when Kippenberger was crowned Miss Florida Seminole about a year ago, she Damon Scott had a feeling Miss Indian World was very attainable. Cheyenne Kippenberger, center, participates in the Grand Entry at the Gathering of Nations in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in April on her way to becoming Miss Indian World. “I knew she had a really good shot at it,” Bowers said, although Kippenberger wouldn’t decide to run until much later. talent – a demonstration of a traditional “I was going around to each Reservation Bowers said Kippenberger’s age was an World application submission. Seminole hairstyling. speaking [as Miss Florida Seminole]. When advantage because she had already been on “I’ve known Cheyenne Kippenberger Respected reputation I finally did decide to run, I’d planned her own, had graduated college and was well for 22 years, and it’s been a pleasure to ‘Overwhelmingly happy’ on doing the same [traditional Seminole versed in Native American issues. watch her grow up from a cute little toddler The Miss Indian World pageant – held hairstyling] talent, but how could I make it “We hit it off,” Bowers said. “We always to a very responsible adult,” Rep. Wareham since 1984 – takes place each year at the After Kippenberger picked up the two better? I was working hard on my dancing had something we could talk about.” said in the letter he shared with the Seminole Gathering of Nations, the world’s largest individual awards, she waited with the other and was in full-on practice mode,” she said. Kippenberger concurred: “We’re so Tribune. Native American powwow. contestants on the floor of Tingley Coliseum Bowers was encouraging Kippenberger alike. It was always laughs and smiles. It’s “Following in her grandmother’s Native American women between the to hear who would be runner-up and who to submit her application and it was even not easy in some of these situations. It’s hard footsteps, Miss Florida Seminole Lawanna ages of 18 and 25 travel from around the would get the crown. posted on her bedroom door as a reminder. to navigate some of the things you have to Osceola, Cheyenne has taken to her new U.S. and Canada to represent their tribes and “I was praying really, really hard in my She kept it there until the end of January go through, but much easier when you have role of ambassador for our people and Tribe compete in a series of categories. head and in my heart. I wanted to show my when she finally decided to run after someone like Wanda who knows the position with the confidence of a dignitary. She is a The purpose of the journey and the title gratitude for the experience itself and be consulting with her father. and knows how to handle these things,” she positive role model and leader for Seminole is to give the women a chance to showcase thankful for everyone carrying me through Kippenberger immediately started said. people and would be a great ambassador for the culture and traditions of their tribes. The the experience,” she said. “I thought: There’s working on her essay, portrait, and began Bowers isn’t one to seek attention or the Native American community,” he wrote. contestants serve as cultural ambassadors still a chance, there’s still a chance.” to sell raffle tickets – which serves as a credit. of their respective tribes and of Native The announcer soon said: “The next fundraising element for the pageant. “[Kippenberger’s] a talker. She can talk Making her mark Americans in general. They are expected to Miss Indian World comes to us representing The fundraising was even more to anybody about anything. She smiles and show poise, pride and positivity, and work to the Seminole Tribe of Florida …” preparation for the competition, she said, is very friendly and cordial. She’s everything Like Miss Florida Seminole, Miss keep the diverse cultures of Native Peoples “When I heard the ‘Sem’ I just started because it forced her to step out of her wrapped up into one package,” Bowers Indian World is a one-year term. alive and thriving. crying so hard. I tried to take a moment for comfort zone. said. “That big smile draws you in. She’s so “It’s not necessarily about filling the The Miss Indian World pageant has a myself, a moment to really take it in and put approachable. She worked so hard for that shoes of the girls before you,” Kippenberger reputation for crowning winners who have a it out to the universe,” Kippenberger said. “It ‘That big smile’ crown.” said. “I do have an idea of the goals I want deep understanding of their tribe’s traditions, was an overwhelmingly happy moment. And for my reign.” history, ancestors and culture. genuine surprise.” Bowers has seen many girls pass Tribal pride Kippenberger wants to continue Kippenberger hit all those markers and through the princess program over the years. to promote Tribal mental health issues, expectations. Road to the title She isn’t even sure how long she’s been Since returning home to Hollywood, including through her own personal “[We] look forward to working with overseeing it. Kippenberger said she’s received a great experiences. She also wants to shed light Cheyenne Kippenberger this year as she Kippenberger is just a couple months “Twenty five or 30 years; I don’t even amount of support from Tribal leadership on the lack of representation of Indigenous travels Indian Country representing all shy of what would be her one year mark as count anymore,” Bowers said with a chuckle. and Tribal members. people in education, health care, mass media Native women and the Gathering of Nations Miss Florida Seminole. (She was crowned Bowers and Kippenberger began their President Mitchell Cypress was the first and more, she said. organization,” Gathering of Nations directors July 14, 2018). However, upon winning journey together without really knowing one person she spoke with after the competition. Kippenberger said some barriers have said in a statement. Miss Indian World, that title is relinquished. another. “My dad said: ‘You have somebody been broken already, citing the first two Throughout the four-day competition, Applications for the next Miss Florida “Wanda is the heart and soul of the on the phone.’ It was Mitchell. I’d run into Native American women elected to Congress contestants accumulate points based on Seminole pageant on July 27 are being Seminole princess program,” Kippenberger him earlier that day. I’ve known him since last year. how they do in public speaking, traditional accepted now. said. “It’s not something everybody wakes I was a little girl. He was really kind and “I think my plan is to push that talents, personal interviews, written essays Kippenberger said she didn’t realize up and says they want to do. It’s hard. My congratulating,” she said. momentum,” she said. and dance. it at the time, but she’d been preparing for experience with Wanda has been nothing Hollywood Representative Gordon O. Kippenberger not only had the most Miss Indian World even before she made the short of amazing. She’s become one of my Wareham wrote a letter of recommendation cumulative points, but also took the award for decision to send in her application. best friends.” for Kippenberger to assist in her Miss Indian best personal interview and best traditional

will remember about you and I think you’ll issues to becoming the first F HISTORIC carry that trait throughout your life.” Seminole winner of Miss From page 1A President Mitchell Cypress: “We’re Indian World. very proud of you. We all look up to you. We “High school was a like this to happen to one of our individuals love you. Do your best for the Tribe; I know really hard time for me. who represents us so well to now represent you will.” I didn’t realize it until the world of Indigenous People is truly Brighton Board Rep. Larry Howard: later on, but I was really amazing and an honor.” “You came back unconquered.” struggling with depression Hollywood Councilman Chris Osceola: After receiving praise from the officials and anxiety,” she told “You’ve inspired a whole generation of and after everyone ate lunch and watched the audience. “Because young Seminole girls to actually get involved a 10-minute video that highlighted her I didn’t have that self- and try to pursue their goals and follow you capturing the crown in New Mexico, it was awareness yet, I thought in your footsteps and what you’ve been able Kippenberger’s turn to take the mic. there was just something to accomplish.” What followed were heartfelt, stirring wrong with me.” Brighton Councilman Andrew J. Bowers and emotional words from Miss Indian But at stages along the Jr.: “I was most impressed when I saw you World. The audience heard an inspirational way – support came to her at the Big Cypress foster home at Christmas address about the valleys and peaks in various ways, through time… You were there interacting with the Kippenberger, 23, has encountered on a family, the Tribe’s Center children, handing out gifts, eating with them, path that ranged from temporarily dropping for Behavioral Health, and playing with them. That was something I out of high school to battling mental health even coworkers at an auto dealership. “After dropping out of high school for a while, I decided to work full time,” she said. “While working at this car dealership in North Miami Beverly Bidney … I found a really, really unconventional place of Hollywood Board Rep. Gordon Wareham presents Miss Indian World Cheyenne Kippenberger with flowers on May 19 at support. My coworkers, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood during the Tribe's celebration of Kippenberger winning the crown. my managers pushed me to go back to school, and help to seek help, just as she did. to stop. I’m really tired of it. That’s not who I still didn’t want to go. I just didn’t think it “If there’s one thing I can tell you, use we are; we’re a lot more than that. We’re was for me. I didn’t have the grades, I didn’t our resources. We are very blessed to have our culture, we’re our languages, we’re our have the work ethic.” a Center for Behavioral Health on one of clothing, we are our own people and we’re But the seed was planted. our reservations. Don’t be ashamed. I was all distinct.” “This group of people that just knew me ashamed for so long, and because of that I Kippenberger reserved the final portion as another coworker, as the girl that worked was side-tracked from a lot of things that I of her talk to thank those in attendance, at the rental department for Lexus, pushed could have done, maybe should have done,” including those who have helped her during me to go to back to high school. I was still she said. her reign as Miss Florida Seminole, and hard-headed and I decided to go back for She plans to share that message with ultimately Miss Indian World. only one day a week. I started to go to school the rest of Indian Country during her year as “Miss Seminole changed my life. I’m just on Fridays. In doing that, I ended up at Miss Indian World. eternally grateful to [Princess Committee this tiny high school off Davie Boulevard in “As Native people, we suffer from chairwoman Wanda Bowers], the Committee, Fort Lauderdale, and I ended up graduating. disproportionate statistics of mental health my aunt, my sisters being behind me, my I walked across the stage as a high school and depression, anxiety, suicide. Because mom and dad being behind me,” she said, graduate and I got my high school diploma we don’t understand these things, we turn to “because I don’t know where I’d be if I in the most unconventional, wrong way these really dark places, and I’m telling you, hadn’t done that.” there could possibly be, but I did it.” it doesn’t have to be that hard and you’re not She concluded by thanking the Seminole Kippenberger’s path started to become alone in that struggle,” she said. community. smoother. Kippenberger also strongly criticized “Thank you to my people, thank you to “I think I can do college,” she said. the way Native Americans continue to be all of you,” she said. “I hope that through this Indeed. Not only did she do college; she depicted in media. year I honor you guys and I do you proud.” excelled, graduating from Keiser University “We are always portrayed in these really Kevin Johnson with a 4.0 GPA with an eye toward a career negative ways,” she said. “If it’s not shirtless Miss Indian World Cheyenne Kippenberger receives a gift from Martha Tommie during a luncheon in in accounting. on horseback, it’s playing the drunk Indian Kippenberger's honor on May 19 in Hollywood. Kippenberger urged those who need in a solider movie or something. That’s got 5A • The Seminole Tribune • May 31, 2019 Prospective princesses hone their skills at workshop

BY BEVERLY BIDNEY an artist and one wants to promote self- Staff Reporter acceptance. Some shared some defining moments of their lives. BIG CYPRESS — A group of eight “I’m a tomboy, but when I watched the future Miss Florida Seminole and Jr. Miss pageant and saw Allegra [Billie] win Jr. Miss Florida Seminole contestants woke up early [Florida Seminole], I knew I could do it,” on Saturday, May 18 to attend a Princess said Carlise. “Now I wear skirts more, I’m workshop at the Big Cypress Boys & Girls trying to educate myself and I talk more to Club auditorium. By the end of the day, they the elders.” each realized it was time well spent. Meyer commended the girls on the Led by Cheyenne Kippenberger, Miss information they gathered about each other, Indian World / Miss Florida Seminole 2018- but wanted more. 2019; Cassandra Jimmie, Miss Florida “I’m looking for you all to be Seminole 2010-2011; and Randee Osceola, memorable,” she said. “Whatever it is, Miss Florida Seminole 2017-2018, the whether someone like pickles or the color purpose of the workshop was to prepare the purple, something might resonate with the girls for the Seminole Princess Pageant in judges. Judges aren’t looking for a perfect July. The day was filled with information, answer; they are looking for you to be exercises and team building meant to inspire perfectly you.” and build their confidence. As a judge, it’s difficult to remember “You are here today because you want everything about every contestant so it is to be here,” said Jimmie. “You love the critical to be memorable. Meyer had the girls write down 10 memorable things about Beverly Bidney Seminole Tribe and this is your way of being Miss Indian World Cheyenne Kippenberger poses for a selfie with the participants in the Princess workshop on May 18 in Big Cypress. part of history and making your mark. You themselves and then choose one to write never know where it will take you, but it will prepare you for anything.” Tribe and was pleased with the workshop. The girls — Carlise Bermudez, “These girls can get along, help each Thomlynn Billie, Tehya Howard, Alexis other and work together as a family,” Jumper, Arianna Osceola, Jordan Osceola, Zamora said. “They don’t see each other as Lola Veliz and Patsy Veliz — were envious. I love that; that’s what we need.” encouraged to ask questions throughout the One of the last exercises of the day was day on May 18. to write a brief introduction, stand behind a The current and former princesses podium and deliver it. Some tips included to shared their experiences and offered always smile, project your voice and speak some practical tips- such as making eye confidently. Some of the group stood in the contact while talking to someone- but also back of the room to make sure whoever emphasized that the pageant is about more spoke could be heard clearly. than just winning. When the first part of the workshop was “The point of pageantry is to be the complete, the girls went to the Ah-Tah-Thi- best you,” said Kippenberger. “Show the Ki Museum to learn more about Seminole best you and you will come out of this with history. friendships and memories; it isn’t just about After a day of bonding and the competition. This is a sisterhood and you teambuilding, the girls forged friendships. will always have it in your life.” What appeared to be nervousness and shy This was only the second princess behavior melted away by the end of the day. workshop; the first was in 2016. Wanda Most didn’t know what to expect, but were Bowers, Princess Pageant Committee glad they participated and said they gained Chairwoman, was approached by confidence. Kippenberger and Jimmie, who wanted to “Life’s going to throw you curve balls, lead another one. They both wished they had but those are the things that will create who this opportunity when they ran for the title. Beverly Bidney you are in life,” said Jimmie. “Whatever you “I said it’s yours,” Bowers said. “This is Carlise Bermudez confers with Patsy Veliz during an exercise at the Princess workshop. do, do from the heart. If you are scared to try a great turnout; it’s more fun with a group of things and don’t, then you will never know Beverly Bidney girls. I hope to turn this over to the younger what you are capable of. Go after it; grab ladies when I retire. Now I can see this will and storytelling. Her advice went beyond Lola Veliz and Jordan Osceola share a laugh on a separate piece of paper. After being life. The world will tell you that you can’t, after creating sashes that describe each other go on.” the talent. but you can.” There were plenty of basics the picked from a bowl, everyone in the room “The judges don’t know much about during the Princess workshop. contestants needed to learn. Jules Meyer, PR had to figure out who wrote it. Some of the the Seminole Tribe,” Osceola said. “So more memorable facts included one girl is The deadline to apply for the 62nd Pageant Coaches founder and former Miss show them something you already know, Seminole Princess Pageant is 5 p.m. .on Florida Seminole pageant judge, has been learning to play golf, another draws every something you are comfortable with and headquarters auditorium. day after school and another almost caught July 15, no exceptions. The pageant will coaching pageant participants for more than can talk about. They want to see your be held July 27 at 7 p.m. in the Hollywood a dozen years. She came to the workshop to an alligator while fishing. confidence.” help guide the girls, offer advice and share “You all have an equal chance at “Do something that insight as to what judges are looking for. winning,” said Meyer. “Judges watch and is second nature to you,” “I hope you are excited about this listen, but it’s 90% about how you make added Kippenberger. journey, which is about getting to know people feel. The judges are going to choose “Make it memorable.” yourself,” Meyer said. “Most people don’t the ones who make them feel the best about While displaying THE LAW OFFICES OF ALAN S. BERNSTEIN, PA. get a chance to do that, so this is powerful. the situation they are judging.” a talent, it is important By getting up and being here this morning, Kippenberger, Jimmie and Osceola for each contestant you are walking the walk.” watched and listened intently before adding to maintain her own An annual tradition the night before the their advice and experience to the mix. personality. Jimmie, Miss Florida Seminole pageant is a welcome Before Kippenberger competed last who loves history, chose banquet with the contestants and families, summer for Miss Florida Seminole, she to show how Seminole former princesses and the judges. The hadn’t thought about it much and didn’t think clothing transitioned contestants are each expected to introduce she had what it took to win. Her biggest fear from the traditional to themselves to the crowded room. When they was the interview with the judges. But she the modern. are not behind the podium, the girls sit and persevered and won the crown. “Use the talent that Arrested? dine with the judges and others at the formal “This is the time to brag about yourself,” you can still be you,” dinner. Everything during the banquet is Kippenberger said about the interviews. Jimmie said. “You want scored by the judges. “But we aren’t taught to do that, we are a to educate them, but be “This is an amazing opportunity to very humble and reserved people. So I talked unique.” show your personality,” Meyer said. “It is about what came from my heart.” Meyer encouraged We need the judges’ first impression of you. Show When she competed for Miss Indian the girls to start thinking off who you are, make your time at the table World, Kippenberger prepared more. She about their talent now, to really count and be careful what you talk made a choice to surround herself with practice a lot and present about. Pretend your grandmother is at the people who inspired her and lost some it in front of people to table and will hear everything you say.” friends along the way. get more comfortable. to talk! To break the ice and help the prospective “Choose the people around you that Jeni Nelson, of princesses get used to speaking to people build you up, not bring you down,” Meyer Lakeland, came along they may not know, the girls were paired said. “If they are going down the wrong with her granddaughter off and had three minutes each to interview path, it’s time to get new friends. Surround Carlise. the other. It was the first of about half a yourself with goodness; my light is only as “I’m very proud of dozen exercises to get them comfortable and bright as those around me.” her,” Nelson said. “We CRIMINAL CHARGES DEMAND A SERIOUS DEFENSE thinking on their feet. After lunch, provided by Nadine were never allowed to be In those three minute interviews, the Bowers at the Big Cypress senior center, like that.” girls asked plenty of questions and learned a the girls discussed the talent portion of the Elsa Zamora, West Palm Beach o„ice pageant. Osceola competed a few times Call 954-925-3111, or on evenings lot about each other. One girl loves pickles, Jimmie’s mother, was by appointment only someone’s favorite animal is an elephant, for Jr. Miss before she won Miss Florida proud of the way her & weekends call 954-347-1000 another girl likes to sew, one wants to be Seminole. She tried a lot of different things daughter represents the Email [email protected] for the talent competition, including songs CALL FOR A FREE CONSULTATION Served as lead council in numerous Instructor at National College for DUI criminal jury trials Defense at Harvard Law School Has concentrated on criminal Completed intensive trial advocacy Judith A. Homko defense matters since 1981 with the National Association and Florida Association of Criminal Marital & Family Law Defense Lawyers Serving In: Practicing In: Broward County, DUI Domestic Violence Divorce Alimony Palm Beach County, Juvenile Oenses Drug Crimes Hendry County, Violations of Probation Theft Crimes Modifications Prenuptial Agreements & Glades County Traic Oenses Felonies Appeals Paternity Issues Child Support Domestic Violence THE LAW OFFICES OF ALAN S. BERNSTEIN, PA. 2131 Hollywood Blvd., Suite 303 301 Clematis St., Suite 3000 (954) 525-0651 | (954) 525-1898 Fax Hollywood, Fl 33020 West Palm Beach, Fl 33401 320 S.E. 9th Street, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 LEGAL ADVERTISEMENT Please feel free to visit our website at: Floridacriminaldefensepro.com 6A • The Seminole Tribune • May 31, 2019

Beverly Bidney Lorraine Posada explains how she makes sweetgrass baskets using sweetgrass and palmetto fiber to a group of Cherokees during a cultural exchange.

Beverly Bidney Members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians enjoy the thrill of an airboat ride May 21 at Billie Swamp Safari.

very much alike and that’s a good thing,” including a dinner at Council Oak or Kuro F CULTURE EXCHANGE said Cherokee member Suzanne Hornbuckle. were also raffled. From page 1A “The people here honor their elders, just like The manager of the Cherokee senior we do.” program Deb West thanked the Tribe for “We learned about certain superstitions their generosity and presented a few gifts of admired the arts and crafts and asked and we have the same ones,” said Valorie their own including white oak baskets and a questions. The Cherokees took their time Welch. Pendleton blanket designed by a Cherokee at the different tables as they learned about The BC senior center gathered more tribal member. each craft. than 100 handmade items to give as After lunch, which included traditional Linda Beletso showed the sweetgrass gifts through raffles. The items included fry bread and pumpkin bread, the Cherokees to a group and told them how to find and patchwork skirts, shirts, handbags and vests, loaded the busses and headed to Hollywood gather it for baskets. One man remarked on beadwork items such as visors and beaded to spend the night. The following day they how smooth and round the grass is. Lorraine jewelry, sweetgrass baskets, dolls and carved headed south to visit the Miccosukee Tribe Posada explained how palmetto fiber is used tomahawks. in Trail. for the base of baskets. The 75 Cherokees were given tickets, “It’s my first time here,” Naomi McCoy Beverly Bidney The arts and crafts of the two tribes are and with more than 100 gifts, about a third of said. “We just want to see how other Tribes After sharing lunch with Louise Osceola during a cultural exchange with the Eastern Band of Cherokee very different, but similarities can be found them went home with more than one bag of live, where they are from and the different Indians, Naomi McCoy shows off the skirt she won during a raffle. Every one of the 75 Cherokees at in their values. Seminole swag. Two Hard Rock guitar gifts terrain. To me that’s interesting.” the event went home with at least one hand-made Seminole treasure. “Our spiritual and cultural things are

Beverly Bidney Beverly Bidney Eastern Band of Cherokee Indian tribal members Louise Taylor and Toni Tahquette are happy with the Billy Walker wrestles a feisty alligator at Billie Swamp Safari as a group of Cherokees pay close attention. patchwork skirts they won at the raffle during the cultural exchange luncheon. Hard Rock’s second Reverb hotel lands in Sonoma County

BY DAMON SCOTT be the city’s first hotel. the city an economic boost by creating 50 to Staff Reporter The hotel will feature a slew of indoor 60 new jobs and providing support to local and outdoor areas and amenities and is businesses. designed to cater to music fans in an area Reverb Sonoma is a partnership between Sonoma County in Northern California with an “eclectic musical background and Cotati Hotel LLC and Hard Rock Hotels. is well known for its winemaking and mild first-class wine offerings.” “The Molinaro Family is thrilled to be weather. Those traveling to the region will “The city of Cotati is the perfect location partnering with Hard Rock Hotels in the soon be able to experience a new Hard Rock … as it is known as a music town and creation of the game changing Reverb by hotel concept as well. features several music festivals throughout Hard Rock here in Cotati,” Ken Molinaro, Reverb by Hard Rock Sonoma Wine the year, along with its small-town charm,” managing member of Cotati Hotel LLC said Country is set to open in the summer of Todd Hricko, SVP of global hotel business in a statement. “As a local family, we are 2020 in Cotati, about 10 miles south of Santa development for Hard Rock Hotels said in dedicated to doing business locally and [are] Rosa. a statement. very focused on creating an environmentally- The 150-room property will be Hard Cotati is also home to Sonoma State friendly hotel. We are thrilled Hard Rock Rock’s second Reverb – the first is scheduled University and the Green Music Center, a shares in our vision.” to open in Atlanta early next year. The world-class musical venue. Hard Rock International has 28 hotels in Atlanta Reverb is being built near Mercedes- The east side of Reverb Sonoma will its portfolio across the globe. HRI’s parent Benz Stadium, home of the National Football feature a large 10,000 square foot plaza area entity is the Seminole Tribe of Florida. League’s Atlanta Falcons. where the community can gather for public More information about Reverb is Cotati, with a population of fewer than events including musical performances by available at reverbhotels.com. Courtesy photo 8,000, is located near dozens of renowned local and national acts. Reverb’s “roadie bunk rooms” are designed for groups featuring six queen bunk beds and a karaoke vineyards and wineries. Reverb Sonoma will The new property is expected to give machine. Hard Rock Heals Foundation awards grant to The Shelter

FROM PRESS RELEASE protect and prevail over domestic violence to local charities in support of their music- and human trafficking through advocacy, related efforts. The Hard Rock Heals Foundation, in empowerment and social change. Funding Founded in 1989, The Shelter for Abused provided through this grant will allow The Women & Children leads the community to partnership with Seminole Casino Hotel Courtesy photo Immokalee recently presented a $5,000 Shelter for Abused Women & Children to prevent, protect and prevail over domestic purchase equipment needed to incorporate violence and human trafficking. Thanks to Karen Locke, from Seminole Casino grant to The Shelter for Abused Women Hotel, left, presents a check for & Children as part of its commitment to music therapy into The Shelter’s Healing unwavering community support and strong Arts program. Today, some 67 full and part- alliances with school, law enforcement, $5,000 to improving the lives and resiliency of local Linda Oberhaus, Executive Director communities. The Shelter for Abused time staff members of The Shelter provide judicial and elected officials, The Shelter services in Naples, Immokalee and Bonita has grown from a renovated four-plex in of The Shelter for Abused Women & Women & Children is one of 50 local grant Children winners around the world to get support Springs through residential and outreach 1989, to a 60-bed, state-of-the-art campus from Hard Rock International’s charitable services, as well as The Shelter Options with seven transitional housing cottages and arm. Shoppe. construction to begin soon on the Shelly The Shelter’s mission is to lead and In 2019, the Hard Rock Heals Stayer Shelter in Immokalee. collaborate with the community to prevent, Foundation will donate a total of $250,000 7A • The Seminole Tribune • May 31, 2019 NCAI applauds Council, Board honors police, security for court’s opinion lifesaving act at Coconut Creek casino FROM PRESS RELEASE The National Congress of American Indians applauded the U.S. Supreme Court’s opinion issued May 20 in Herrera v. Wyoming, a tribal treaty rights case. In a 5-4 decision, the Court held that the Crow Tribe of Indians’ treaty right to hunt on unoccupied lands within the United States survives Wyoming’s establishment as a state, noting that this right remains unless it is expressly repealed by an act of Congress or “a termination point in the treaty itself has been satisfied.” The case was vacated and remanded for further proceedings consistent with the Court’s opinion. NCAI President Jefferson Keel stated, “Once again, the Supreme Court has affirmed that treaty rights are the supreme law of the land, and they continue in perpetuity unless expressly repealed by an act of Congress.” F SPAIN From page 1A Barcelona’s Mediterranean coast, injecting energy and world-class entertainment into the city’s hotel scene.” Derrick Tiger The hotel is actually owned by ASG (ActivumSG Capital Management Ltd.) but Tribal Council and Board members pose for a group photo with Seminole Police Department and Coconut Creek Police Department officers on March 22 during a ceremony that recognized the officers’ actions in an incident at Seminole Casino Coconut Creek. will be operated by Hard Rock Hotels. It is the fourth project in ASG’s Spanish hotel development portfolio following a surge of BY DERRICK TIGER personnel redirected the public and kept visitors to Spain, the statement said. Staff Reporter a secure area so that the subject would not “Our agreement with Hard Rock feel threatened and customers would not be International is an important milestone injured.” for this signature investment. It’s our HOLLYWOOD — Officers of the The entire incident lasted for two hours. second collaboration with HRI’s renowned Seminole Police Department and Coconut It was captured on video surveillance from hospitality brand following the announcement Creek Police Department, along with the parking garage and SPD body camera. on the opening of Hard Rock Hotel Madrid,” Security staff from the Seminole Casino Clips of the footage were screened for Tribal Saul Goldstein, ASG’s founder and managing Coconut Creek were honored March 22 at Council and Board members. In the footage partner, said in the statement. a Seminole Tribal Council meeting. The the man can be seen perched on a concrete The Barcelona development is adjacent officers were presented with Florida Police barrier. The man threatened to throw to the Fòrum beach and marina in Sant Adrià Chiefs Association Lifesaving Awards. himself over the edge several times. The del Besòs. It is near to subway and tram The awards are given when an footage from the camera is jarring to watch access to Barcelona’s city centre as well. exceptional lifesaving act occurs that places as the man decides to let his body fall over The hotel is also located near the Parc the nominee’s life in jeopardy. the barrier and officers leap to rescue him. del Fòrum and Parc de la Pau, both of which The officers were awarded for their The top of the concrete barrier is all host a regular line up of events and festivals involvement in an incident that occurred that can be seen as officers struggle to lift – something important to Hard Rock guests. Feb. 14 on the roof of the parking garage the man back up. At times the camera shifts, It was announced late last year that the at the casino in which Seminole Police and providing a glimpse of the steep 100 foot fall Hard Rock would open its first Spain hotel in Coconut Creek police officers prevented a below. While not seen in the footage it was Madrid. That 159-room project is expected to man from committing suicide. reported that “five officers suffered injuries be completed soon and open later this year. In a summary by the Seminole Police from bites, scrapes, and leg and back strain The third hotel property is located on Department, officers responded to a call injuries during the attempt to catch and then the Spanish island of Ibiza, which is already from casino security who reported “a man lift this person over the wall.” open and operating. Spain also has eight was acting strangely and that he climbed on Even at risk of injury for themselves the Hard Rock Café locations. the wall and indicated he was going to kill officers persevered in their struggle to guide The future for Hard Rock outside of the himself by falling the almost 100 feet to the the man to safety. U.S. continues to be a healthy one. About ground below.” “It was one of the most heroic actions I a year ago, HRI chairman and Seminole The summary also states that the man have seen in my life, where our employees Gaming CEO Jim Allen said another was armed with a box cutter and “flailed put themselves in grave danger for a person signature guitar-shaped hotel and integrated it from time to time to keep the distance they did not know,” said Chief of Police John resort would be coming to Japan. between he and the police staff on scene.” Auer of the Seminole Police Department. The company’s first guitar-shaped A crisis negotiator from the Coconut He also added that the officers showed an hotel is nearing completion in Hollywood, Creek Police Department arrived on scene “appreciation of their unselfish dedication to Florida, where it also operates one of its most and “kept a constant dialogue with the the preservation of life.” successful casinos. suicidal subject—prolonging the safe During the Tribal Council meeting, the Derrick Tiger There are now 28 Hard Rock Hotels and time and allowing the additional officers officers were congratulated by the Council Chairman Marcellus W. Osceola Jr. congratulates Coconut Creek Officer O’Meil Molyneaux. counting. HRI is owned and operated by its and support staff to arrive, as the security and the Board. parent entity, the Seminole Tribe of Florida. Plight of missing, murdered Native women gets increased focus

BY DAMON SCOTT The White House issued a proclamation They are often never heard from or found Against Women Act (VAWA). Due to the Another Native provision within the Staff Reporter on May 3rd titled “Missing and Murdered again, and those who are found have many efforts of Haaland and her colleagues, the updated VAWA is one that seeks to ensure American Indians and Alaska Natives times been murdered. bill now includes better protections for children and law enforcement in tribal Awareness Day,” while the U.S. Congress According to a study commissioned by Native American women. communities are protected in instances The ongoing movement to address the declared May 5th as a “National Day of the Department of Justice, American Indian The updated bill provides victim of domestic violence. The Native Youth problem of missing and murdered Indigenous Awareness for Missing and Murdered women in some tribal communities face advocate services to urban Native Americans & Tribal Officer Protection Act reaffirms women and girls has a momentum behind it Native Women and Girls.” murder rates that are more than 10 times the in state courts and expands information inherent tribal authority over child abuse that has perhaps never been seen to date. A big part of the increased focus goes national average. sharing between public safety departments and crimes that are committed against What was once a virtually off the radar beyond the dedications and declarations. It It’s a problem that touches not only throughout Indian Country. police officers and other justice officials issue, except among certain groups and is due to the election of the first two Native many Native American reservations across The information sharing is key, who respond to domestic violence calls. advocates, now has an almost daily mention American women to Congress in the 2018 the U.S., but Indigenous populations across lawmakers say. One statistic shows that The updated version of VAWA in local and national mainstream media. midterms – Rep. Sharice Davids of Kansas the globe. of 6,000 cases of missing and murdered was recently passed by the House of In late April, the founders and (Ho-Chunk) and Rep. Deb Haaland of New “Congress has never had a voice like Indigenous women in the U.S., only 118 Representatives. Its fate in the Senate is still organizers of the Gathering of Nations Mexico (Pueblo of Laguna). mine – a Native American woman who have been entered into the Department of unknown. powwow in Albuquerque, New Mexico, They join two existing Native sees the blind spots that have existed for Justice database. dedicated the Miss Indian World pageant Americans in Congress: Rep. Tom Cole, far too long. That’s why I’ve been working Within VAWA is also the SURVIVE Savanna’s Act (won by Seminole Cheyenne Kippenberger) R-OK, (Chickasaw) and Rep. Markwayne on multiple bills and legislation to address Act (Securing Urgent Resources Vital to to the issue as a way to help build awareness Mullin, R-OK, (Cherokee). this crisis,” Haaland said on a recent media Indian Victim Empowerment). It would In May, a new version of the federal around it. A national awareness campaign Haaland has been at the forefront of a conference call. address the need for tribal victim assistance Savanna’s Act was introduced in the House was also promoted on a billboard near variety of bills to address the problem: that One of the more significant and recent by creating a tribal grant program within the Tingley Coliseum where the powwow took Native women and girls go missing at a rate pieces of legislation addressing the issue is Department of Justice’s Office for Victims F See NATIVE WOMEN on page 9A place. much higher than the general population. the reauthorization of the federal Violence of Crime. 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. 8A • The Seminole Tribune • May 31, 2019

Capturing a Seminole tradition: alligator wrestling

BY SIOBHAN MILLAR Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum’s next exhibit about alligator wrestling is one of those stories. Exhibits Coordinator, Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum Alligator Wrestling: Danger. Photo postcard/Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum There are usually two sides to every Entertainment. Tradition. opens this “Seminole Indian and His Little Playmate,” Musa Isle, 1931 story. Sometimes stories become woven December. Through the exhibit, the visitor together so tightly that it is difficult to will journey with two young Seminole untangle them over the course of time. The children who are interested in alligator wrestling. Along the way, they realize reproduction drawing of Florida’s Indians new money-making idea was born. that there is more to alligator slaying a ferocious, crocodilian-like, reptile). This version of the story is based on the wrestling than the entertainment Additionally, wood carved artifacts, found simple need to survive and provide food for value of the “sport.” There on Key Marco off the coast of Naples in the the family. But it is a fortuitous encounter are other aspects at play: the 1880s, serve as record to the long association that undoubtedly created a new economic history of alligator wrestling, between the early Indigenous Peoples of outlet for the Seminoles at an uncertain time. the cultural significance of the Florida and this reptile (whether appropriated There is some truth to the saying, “necessity alligator, the Seminole warrior for food or ceremonial practice). is the mother of invention.” Maybe it is a who carried the name Alligator, In several interviews from the Museum’s matter of who gets there first and tags it as the importance of traditions, the collection, Tribal members make a distinction their own. animal’s biology, dangers that between alligator wrestling and capturing. As the exhibit team gathers the come along with the practice, Jack Chalfant, a Tribal member and Tribal information, we are set on a path where the and the future of alligator Historic Preservation Office employee (and Seminole community is key to unraveling the wrestling in the Tribe. sometime alligator handler) reinforces this evolution of Seminole alligator wrestling. Non-Seminoles think idea. This places a slightly different twist on In the new exhibit, traditional, cultural, in a linear time frame, a the Seminole history of alligator wrestling. and historical components will be shared specific date, an event, and a Obscured are the popular, non-Seminole with the non-Seminole visitor to enhance progression of circumstances. personalities who established Miami’s understanding of the Seminole perspective. Leafing through the books early tourist attractions (i.e. alligator farms, The most insightful information has not been in the Museum’s archives, Seminole tourist camps) and where alligator found on the pages of a book but from Tribal this format is obvious. Books wrestling was performed. Instead, Jack members themselves. Alligator wrestling written about the tourist camp Chalfant’s story has an unknown passerby is immersed in the Seminole culture, and it decades ago suggest that Henry driving along a recently constructed is largely theirs and the Miccosukee’s own Coppinger Jr. is responsible Tamiami Trail, witnessing a Seminole man story. for popularizing the sport and in a canoe, “capture, tie and drag” from the If you are interested in loaning a shirt introducing alligator wrestling water, an alligator and afterward placing (that has had a close encounter of the alligator to the Seminoles. However, for the tied alligator in a pen. (It is much easier wrestling kind), objects or any other alligator Miccosukee men, hunting and to “catch” an already captured but live wrestling stories, please contact Siobhan handling alligators existed long animal!) The passerby then threw money to Millar, exhibits coordinator, 863-902-1113, before the introduction of tourist the Seminole, commenting, “It makes for a ext. 12227 or Justin Giles, oral history camps. Seminole ancestors great show.” Asked about Henry Coppinger coordinator, 863-902-1113, ext. 12227. hunted alligators as far back Jr., Chalfant says Coppinger watched the State Archives of Florida/Bry as the 1500s (depicted in the Seminoles capturing the alligators- and a “Plate XXVI Killing Crocodiles,” 1591 Theodor de Bry Engraving. Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki displays arts and crafts by Pemayetv Emahakv students

BY DAMON SCOTT represented by two pieces, putting the total Staff Reporter at about 16. Why it matters BIG CYPRESS — The Brighton Reservation’s Pemayetv Emahakv Charter Other than a way to feature stellar arts School (PECS) is known for its Creek and crafts, the underlying reason for the language immersion program. But it’s also program is to keep Seminole culture in the unique for its instruction in traditional forefront of Tribal life, said Ringer. Seminole cooking and arts and crafts. “It’s not only our language that’s dying, In fact, visitors from Native American culture is dying with it,” Ringer said. “It’s schools across the country have traveled not really being taught in homes anymore. to PECS to see how their special programs Grandmas and great grandmas are all sadly operate. passing away and they’re taking all of that The school’s arts and crafts have gotten knowledge with them. That’s where we step some additional attention recently with in.” a special showcase at the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Ringer said she always hopes that once Museum in Big Cypress. students leave the program and move on, All K-8 PECS students are given classes they’ll keep what they’ve learned alive and on traditional Seminole arts and crafts. The thriving. program is a hands-on one, and takes place “It’s exciting because you see some throughout the school year. that do take so much pride in it and they’re On May 21, a group of students and excited,” she said. “And just to see their instructors were at the museum for a special faces when they’ve finished a project – they reception. Museum officials and the school are so happy to see it. That’s what makes it collaborated on a display of the student’s all worth it.” work. Several pieces were chosen by PECS lead arts and crafts instructor Marilee Johns If you go Ringer. The pieces will be displayed at the museum through Aug. 18. The Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum The pieces represent beadwork, sewing, presentation of “Our Way School: Traditional basket making, doll making, woodcarving Arts and Crafts” is on exhibit from May 20 and more. to Aug. 18. The goal of the program is to educate Damon Scott The museum is located on the Big and help students develop practical skills Cypress Reservation at 34725 West that enhance their sense of cultural heritage. Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School students and instructors gather at the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum on the Big Cypress Reservation for a reception May 21. Top row, from left, are April Wright (instructor), Serenity Lara (6th grade), Marilee Johns Ringer (lead instructor), Juanita Billie (5th grade), Carlee Osceola Boundary Road in Clewiston. For more The hope is they will help keep Seminole (6th grade), Deanthony Torres (5th grade) and Taylor Johns (instructor). Bottom row, from left, Elainna Fonseca (2nd grade), Stellar King (2nd grade), Khoal information, call (863) 902-1113 or go to traditions alive and well as they grow older. Cochran (3rd grade), Tehya Nunez (4th grade) and Waniya Fortner (4th grade). Not all students or teachers involved in the program are pictured. ahtahthiki.com.

“Teachers are proud of their student’s “They get a little bit of everything. Some really easy to choose,” Ringer said. accomplishments; students realize the kids might not get it at home, [but] they can Ringer said each grade level is usually importance of learning everything about come to the school and get it and hopefully their culture, keeping the unconquered spirit pass it on,” Ringer said. alive,” reads part of a dedication sign at the museum display. “The community is proud Student pride of the school’s dedication to the students, and encourages them to continue traditional The projects on display at the museum ways by passing these practices along to are all the more impressive when you future generations.” consider the students are only in arts and crafts class once a week. Group effort Ringer starts choosing the projects that will be featured at the museum early in the Ringer is quick to point out that her year and she knows which pieces will be at coworkers at PECS should be given a lot of the museum by February. credit for the success of the program – Taylor “You have to pick who has the best Johns, April Wright and Denise Welborn. work ethic and who’s really progressing and “They are the backbone that keeps our moving on,” Ringer said. program going, and each help the children She said a lot of the projects that were create beautiful pieces,” Ringer said. chosen were from students who were on Ringer is from the Brighton Reservation their second or third creation. and has been at PECS for about eight years Some students learn to sew and do it – six of those leading the arts and crafts from beginning to end, also picking their department. Her father is Marty Johns, who own colors. They start with patchwork, then runs the Seminole Brighton Casino. do potholders and book bags. Some have “The students have classes so they can made skirts. learn their Creek language and then they Basket makers go from a regular bowl- rotate through my classroom as their arts sized basket to a basket-bottom purse. and crafts class — they get to do all the “We’ll have small [palmetto] dolls and traditional stuff,” Ringer said. each gets bigger and bigger and they dress Damon Scott The school has traditional cooking them and sew their clothes on them,” Ringer Damon Scott Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School fifth-grader classes where students cook over fire, too – said. A variety of arts and crafts were created by students, including dolls and baskets. From left, the items Juanita Billie created this beaded jewelry. learning about traditional Seminole food. “They took pride in their work so it was are the works of Saniya Rodiguez, Carlee Osceola, Jrayko Billie, Cheyenne Lara and Serenity Lara. 9A • The Seminole Tribune • May 31, 2019

F NATIVE WOMEN From page 7A

– a supplement to the Senate bill introduced in January by Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-AK. Like certain provisions in VAWA, Health Savanna’s Act seeks to improve coordination among law enforcement offices, increase data collection and information sharing, and gives tribal governments more resources. Haaland said more than 70 Tribal Nations Cherokee have endorsed the bill so far. Mosquitoes are more Former North Dakota Senator Heidi Heitkamp, a Democrat, named the Nation, OSU legislation in honor of Savanna LaFontaine- than pests Greywind, a member of the Spirit Lake break ground Tribe who vanished in 2017 in Fargo while eight months pregnant. Her body was found Courtesy photo BY SALLIE JAMES eight days later in the Red River. Environmental Health Administrator for the Rep. Sharice Davids of Kansas (Ho-Chunk) Florida Department of Health in Broward County Florida Department of Health in Broward on new County. “The average homeowner should (In)visible make sure if they have potted plants they medical school You’re trying to fall asleep when you dump any water that collects and check In addition, Haaland, Davids and the Government Accountability Office to hear that barely-audible, high-pitched buzz anything that could hold water.” FROM PRESS RELEASE others have recently introduced the Not conduct a full review of how federal agencies that tells you a bloodthirsty mosquito is Aedes aegypi can even breed inside Invisible Act to establish a federal advisory respond to reports of missing and murdered waiting to take a bite. the home, in spots where water drips and committee on violent crime. The committee Native Americans and recommend solutions It can be annoying, but mosquitoes are TAHLEQUAH, Okla. — Leaders based on their findings. collects. from the Cherokee Nation and Oklahoma would consist of law enforcement, tribal more than just annoying. They can carry Remember, as the weather gets leaders, federal partners, service providers serious diseases like encephalitis (West Nile, State University Center for Health Sciences States involved, too warmer, mosquito activity increases. If gathered on May 20 in Tahlequah, Oklahoma St. Louis and Eastern Equine), yellow fever, you go outdoors on a buggy night, wear dengue and malaria and Zika. Mosquitoes to break ground on the 84,000-square-foot Several states have made pledges to shoes, socks, long pants and long sleeves. OSU College of Osteopathic Medicine at the bite in the day AND the night, and their bites Spray your skin and clothing with an insect study the issue or have passed laws of their can be itchy and painful. Cherokee Nation. own in recent months. Here are a handful. repellent that contains DEET or other The new, accredited medical school As mosquito season rolls into full swing, approved ingredients. • Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey signed it’s time to take preventative measures to campus will be located on the W.W. Hastings a bill into law in May that will create a Draining standing water is the most campus in Tahlequah, and is the first tribally- safeguard yourself and your home. effective way to stop them from reproducing. task force to investigate and gather data on The bug to watch for is the Aedes aegypi affiliated medical school on tribal land in the missing and murdered Indigenous women. “Mosquitoes multiply quickly, but you United States. mosquito, a small, black one with white can stop them in their tracks,” said Dr. Paula • Oregon Gov. Kate Brown signed a markings on its legs and one in the form “Health care in Indian Country took a bill in May that directs the state police to Thaqi, Director of the Florida Department major step forward today with the historic of a lyre on the upper surface of its thorax. of Health in Broward County. “Practice study how to increase and improve criminal These mosquitoes live close to people, right groundbreaking of the OSU College of justice resources on these cases. ‘drain and cover.’ When you dump standing Osteopathic Medicine at the Cherokee outside or inside your house. They specialize water, you eliminate the breeding ground for • In late April, Hanna’s Act, a bill in biting humans, and stay active all day. Nation,” Cherokee Nation Principal Chief that passed in the Montana Legislature and mosquito larvae and getting rid of the source Bill John Baker said. “We believe this school Preventing bites is the best way to is the best way to avoid being bitten.” was signed by Gov. Steve Bullock, creates stay safe and there are lots of easy ways to will produce a new wave of medical students a missing persons specialist within the Mosquito eggs that are laid in shallow who will possess the medical knowledge accomplish this. Most importantly, drain water can hatch in a day or two. The larvae Montana Department of Justice as well as a standing water in and around the house. and the mindset to reside and practice in state missing persons database. grow fast, turning into a pupa that quickly northeast Oklahoma, positively impacting • Keep flower pots and saucers free develops into a full-grown mosquito. The • Also in Montana, Attorney General of standing water Cherokee Nation health care and other health Courtesy photo Tim Fox and U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme life cycle, from egg to adult mosquito, takes care systems across the region.” Rep. Deb Haaland of New Mexico (Pueblo of • Check old tires, buckets, toys, and eight to 10 days. The pupae become flying pledged to sponsor a joint training session in birdbaths for pooled water The facility will feature state-of-the-art Laguna) June for local, state, tribal and federal police mosquitoes in two to three days. classrooms, lecture halls and cutting-edge • Flush out water-holding plants like Stop mosquitoes from breeding by officers and the public on missing persons bromeliads with a hose every week technology such as computer-programmable cases across the state, focusing on Native draining standing water, and stay healthy. manikins and medical simulation. • Discard items where rain or Request information on mosquito and survivors or their families. The goal is Americans. sprinkler water collects and clean pet water The college is slated to open with • In May, a missing and murdered control: DOH-Broward, 954-213-0607. 50 students in 2020. The medical school to make recommendations on best practices bowls twice a week Report infestation on Seminole for law enforcement. Indigenous women awareness day was held • Check your house for torn window is expected to serve 200 students when it in Rapid City, South Dakota. Reservation: Call Seminole Mosquito becomes fully operational. “This is a crisis that has gone on for far screens and keep windows and doors closed Control at 561-319-3983. too long,” Haaland said on the conference • New Mexico and Wyoming have to prevent mosquitoes from coming inside “The OSU College of Osteopathic assembled task forces to address the issue. Report infestation: In Broward, County Medicine and the Cherokee Nation have call. “Part of the problem is that this has • Use air conditioning Mosquito Control will consider spraying been a silent crisis. No one is keeping track. • Washington State is requiring • Cover cribs, strollers and baby a shared vision of populating rural and its state patrol officers to establish best your neighborhood if you have a large underserved Oklahoma with OSU primary It’s not covered in mainstream media and carriers with mosquito netting number of mosquitoes. 954-765-4062 or data is lacking everywhere.” practices for investigating missing Native “Mosquitoes typically breed in very care physicians,” said Kayse Shrum, D.O., Americans. http://www.broward.org/Mosquito/Pages/ OSU-CHS president and dean of the OSU Other laws and provisions seek to get shallow water, a capful of water or a puddle MosquitoServiceRequest.aspx into very specific areas of concern. One is “This longstanding epidemic will take behind a bush,” explained Anthony Vomero, College of Osteopathic Medicine. “I can’t time, resources, and dedication to resolve think of a better way to achieve this vision the Studying the Missing and Murdered Indian Crisis Act. It was recently introduced and we will find solutions,” Haaland than by partnering with the Cherokee Nation concluded on her conference call. to establish the OSU College of Osteopathic in order to improve cooperation between Medicine at the Cherokee Nation.” tribes and law enforcement by directing

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Kevin Johnson BC WELCOME: Big Cypress Councilman Mondo Tiger greets country music artist Gary Allan on May 11 before Allan’s performance at the 124th Big Cypress Anniversary Celebration at the Junior Cypress Rodeo Grounds.

Matheus Goes SEMINOLE STRONG: A group of Tribal member employees gather outside the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood on April 29 during a break from a meeting. From left, Quenton Cypress, Tribal Historic Preservation Office community engagement manager; Cleofas Yzaguirre, Immokalee Youth Agriculture Ranch director; Michael Gentry, Okalee acting general manager; Leoma Poore, Treasurer’s executive assistant; Aaron Tommie, Advanced Career Development participant; Sunshine Frank, Seminole Media Productions broadcasting manager; Jacob Osceola, Big Cypress Wildlife manager; Lee Zepeda, executive director of Administration; LaVonne Rose, Tribal secretary; and Derrick Smith, Tribal Community Development senior director of operations. Beverly Bidney PREPARATIONS UNDERWAY: Land is being cleared so construction may commence in the near future for a new Trading Post on the Immokalee Reservation.

Kevin Johnson REMEMBERING HERMAN L. OSCEOLA: Trophies and backpacks were among the prizes awarded to teams at the 34th Beverly Bidney annual Herman L. Osceola Memorial Basketball Tournament in March in Big Cypress. U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Osceola, from INDOOR CHICKEE: Immokalee Preschool Center manager Michelle Ford and Big Cypress Board Rep. Joe Frank Big Cypress, died at age 23 on March 24, 1984, in a helicopter crash during a military training exercise in South Korea. huddle in the chickee which the preschoolers walked through May 1 on their way down the aisle for the Seventeen other U.S. Marines and 11 South Koreans also died in the tragedy. preschool graduation.

Kevin Johnson Beverly Bidney Kevin Johnson PECKIN’ AWAY: A red-bellied woodpecker pecks at a tree outside BABY LOVE: Susan Davis hoists her niece Jhene Baker, 6 months old, into the air in a RISE AND SHINE: Workers descend on the south side of the new guitar-shaped hotel being Sadie’s on the Big Cypress Reservation on May 6. show of auntie-love before the program begins at the Immokalee Preschool graduation built at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood on May 8. on May 1. 11A • The Seminole Tribune • May 31, 2019 NATIONAL NATIVE NEWS Archaeological testing underway Lemieux played a variety of sports public relations student and social media sitting in a circle. He tells them to write the inexperience. at Triangle Park following ancient growing up in Caldwell, Idaho. She played coordinator for Youth Movement. names of their tribe or tribes and then gives “(They) are so kind and so loving and burial site claims basketball and volleyball, in addition to golf, “Seeing a marginalized group and really them a simple task. they made me feel accepted. Even though when she got to high school. Role models telling these kids that anything is possible, “Identify for yourself and for your I’m a beginner and I’m new, they never in any sport for those of Native American that you can get out of your comfort zone, family where on the map your people are made me feel like that,” she said. DAYTON - The city of Dayton has descent were few. coming to the University of Oregon and from.” Though Rose recognizes that not brought in a national consulting firm to Now, Lemieux looks up to Notah getting an education is a possibility,” he said. One by one, students ages 7 and older everyone is a horror lover, she thinks there further examine claims that Triangle Park Begay, a full-blooded Native American who “I think it’s a really big deal.” walk to the poster with Post-its signed are pieces of the show that will resonate with is a Native American burial site, ahead of played a PGA Tour event as recently as 2012 From the EMU, the kids left for PK Ojibwe, Sioux, Oneida, Potawatomi and all audiences — well, most. the installation of an NFL-funded turf field, and is now an analyst with the Golf Channel Park. At the baseball field, a number of more in hand. “I think ‘Chambers’ is really for according to a media release from the city and NBC Sports. The two met through her stations were set up that the groups rotated “Some of these tribes are gone,” Frejo everyone — not kids, though. I wouldn’t tell The firm, specializing in cultural college coach. through, including kickball, capture the flag said. “The names that are on here are still kids to watch ‘Chambers.’ I’m not going to heritage and historical preservation, will “He has definitely become a mentor,” and nutrition stations. alive. That’s you guys. That means your lie about that,” she said with a laugh. conduct archaeological testing at Triangle she said. “I can lean on him whenever I need In the next set of stations, the field day people survived to be here in Milwaukee. Park at the site of a proposed turf field, advice. He’s always been there for me when included traditional Native American sports You are the seventh generation.” - ABC News funded by a grant from the National Football I needed him.” like shinny, a field hockey game similar to The center’s Youth Empowerment League, officials said. She only played in a couple of U.S. lacrosse originally played by Native people. Program, which began in 2015, seeks to Another death reported at a jail Non-invasive, ground penetrating radar Junior Championships but her finishes There was also an art station where kids connect youths to their tribal history. will be used during the testing, according to were good enough to draw some interest created buttons and traditional medicine Students ranging from ages 7 to 18 in an Alaska Native community the city. from major colleges, most notably Brigham bags. attend the program after school Tuesdays An additional assessment will be Young, Texas Christian and Texas Tech. The Native American Student Union and Thursdays to work on homework and Three people have died over the last conducted by the State Historic Preservation She eventually chose Texas Tech because worked with Youth Movement to create participate in cultural activities. few weeks in detention facilities in Alaska Office. Lubbock was more her style. a cultural insights team and ensure the Anne Egan-Waukau, vice chairwoman Native communities. “We are continuing to consult with Her collegiate career was highlighted activities were culturally appropriate. of the center’s Board of Directors, said Robert Nick, 54, died in a jail in archaeological experts and members of by a Big 12 Conference Player of the Year “I think at this event, we’re all in the youth program helps to celebrate the Akiachak on May 10, The Anchorage the community to ensure that our process selection as a sophomore. She graduated a college and working to give back to our students’ culture and “for those who don’t Daily News reported. The incident is under is inclusive, transparent and thorough,” year ago with a degree in human development Native community,” said Allyson Alvarado, know, educate them on it.” investigation by the Alaska State Troopers. officials said in the emailed release. and family studies. a NASU member and Youth Movement In addition, “kids are reconnecting and “On 5/10/19 at about 2053 hours, The city announced plans in March to She is sponsored by Nike’s N7 volunteer. reidentifying with their tribal identity,” said Alaska State Troopers in Bethel received build the field with a $440,000 grant from campaign, which the athletic apparel giant At the end of the day, spirit awards Frejo, who is Pawnee and Seminole and a call from Tribal Police in the village of the NFL in honor of its first game played at started in 2000 to provide its products to were given to kids who showed leadership, teaches the youth culture classes. Akiachak reporting a death at the village Triangle Park on Oct. 3, 1920, between the Native American tribes in support health sportsmanship, teamwork and spirit A typical class begins with a talking jail. Earlier in the evening Robert Nick Dayton Triangles and Columbus Panhandles. and disease prevention programs. Proceeds throughout the day and all of the participants circle, in which each student seated takes a (54 yoa of Akiachak) had been placed into from Air Native N7 are given back to youth received prizes. moment to share their name, their tribes and protective custody by tribal police officers - Dayton Daily sports and educational programs in Native “This has been one of the craziest how they are feeling on a scale of one to 10. due to his level of intoxication. Robert American communities. days I think I’ve ever experienced, but it’s About a dozen students from schools in the was found unresponsive in the jail cell Olympian Billy Mills honors 10 She also works with Moya Strategic absolutely incredible,” said Bidasolo. “I Milwaukee area come to the program twice by tribal jail guards,” the dispatch report Native youth $10,000 grantees at Solutions (MS2), a consulting firm that wouldn’t change any of this for the joy I’m weekly, and many participate in the summer AK19030381 states. “Life saving measures were attempted, but unsuccessful. Troopers Dreamstarters ceremony develops sports and educational programs experiencing today and the lives that we’re program as well. for youth. impacting.” Having grown up in Oklahoma City responded by boat to Akiachak and conducted Right now she is competing on the - Emerald News and living in Milwaukee for the past two an investigation. The remains have been sent Gold medal-winning Olympian Women’s All-Pro Tour, with a career-best years, Frejo said bringing tribal culture and to the State Medical Examiners Office in Billy Mills, Lakota, hosted his fifth Anchorage. Next of kin has been notified. fourth-place finish in her most recent event, Native American tribe bans South traditions to Central City neighborhoods annual Dreamstarters closing ceremony the Business First Bank Classic last month in strengthens a person’s pride and knowledge. This incident remains under investigation. in Alexandria, Virginia, just outside of Louisiana. Players have to get enough points Dakota governor from reservation “If you’re grounded in your roots and Alcohol appears to be a contributing factor.” Washington D.C., to wrap up a four-day in two events before they can move up to culture, you can live anywhere,” Frejo said. Becca White, 24, and Isaiah Parka, 22, Dreamstarter Academy in which Native the Symetra Tour, the official developmental PINE RIDGE, S.D. - The Oglala Sioux Rosita Gonzalez, 17 and a member of died in a jail in Napakiak on April 28, The youth — who were awarded 10,000 grants circuit for the LPGA. tribe in South Dakota has told the state’s the Oneida tribe, has attended the center’s Daily News reported. Both had been locked to pursue their dreams — were honored She netted $1,850 for her finish in governor that she’s no longer welcome to youth programming since its beginnings. in their cells when a fire broke out in the and wrapped with an official Billy Mills- Louisiana, which was enough to break even. access the Pine Ridge Reservation, one of She said that as one of three or four Native facility. designed Pendleton blanket. While the result didn’t earn her enough the largest in the country, because she signed American students at her school, the health “What I’m wondering is why they This is the fifth year celebrating dreams points to advance, it was her best showing in bills that allegedly target Keystone XL center’s after-school program allows her to couldn’t open the jail cells right away,” and aspirations of 10 Native youth from the four events, an encouraging sign. pipeline protesters. connect with her tribal culture and traditions. Miranda White, who is Becca’s sister, told ages of 14-30 years-old in the Dreamstarter’s She will be playing in a Symetra The tribe’s president, Julian Bear Runner, The Youth Empowerment Program also the paper. “If they had the keys, why didn’t ‘Running Strong for American Indian Tournament in Battle Creek, Mich., in informed Gov. Kristi Noem of the council’s hosts monthly family dinner nights, which they just open it?” Youth,’ an organization championed by Billy August thanks to a sponsor’s exemption. unanimous decision in an open letter. gives a space for Native families to gather In an updated dispatch AK19027173, Mills. The event is sponsored by a casino and her “I am hereby notifying you that you are as a community. the Alaska State Troopers said: “The For the past five years, Native youth heritage factored into being granted that not welcome to visit our homelands, the Pine During one class, the group discussed deceased have been tentatively identified as have applied annually for the chance to be spot. Ridge Reservation, until you rescind your how the words peers use every day derive Becca White, age 24, and Isaiah Parka, age awarded $10,000 in support of fulfilling Part of her pitch was her desire to do support for SB 189 and SB 190 and affirm from the languages of their ancestors. 22, both of Napakiak. Their next of kin have their dreams affecting Indian Country. The something with the platform she has as to your state and this country that First Katy LaRoque, a youth support specialist been notified. Positive identification still work does not have to occur within the a Native American athlete. She plans to Amendment rights to free, political speech and teacher at the center, described to the needs to be confirmed by the State Medical confines of a reservation and each year the visits schools or conduct a youth clinic in are among the truths you hold to be self- students how “Milwaukee,” for example, Examiner’s Office. The two jail guards were applicants needed to apply while adhering conjunction with the tournament. evident,” he said in the letter. has Anishinaabe origins (the language of the both transported out of the community for to a theme. This years’ 2018-19 theme was “I really want to be able to give back He added that if Noem did not honor the Ojibwe, Odawa and Potawatami). “Mino- treatment. It was determined that one of the entrepreneurship. Each year 10 applicants and encourage those like me who want to directive, “we will have no choice but to akking,” which translates to “good land,” jail guards did not need further treatment. were awarded grants. chase a dream,” she said. “I have this great banish you.” praises the rich soil Milwaukee possesses. The other jail guard was medivaced out of At the event, Mills expressed his reason platform and I want to be a role model for In a statement to CNN, Noem’s Frejo said he hopes such teachings will state and is reportedly in serious but stable for contributing to the livelihoods of Native children and young women who have goals. press secretary Kristin Wileman said the continue to prompt students to make positive condition. The General Investigation Unit youth and to the Dreamstarters program. That’s very important to me.” announcement from the Oglala Sioux decisions, grounded in their culture. out of the Mat-Su is taking case responsibility “On October 14, 1964, I laid footprints tribal leadership “is inconsistent with the As part of the seventh generation, and working in conjunction with the State on Mother Earth that forever altered my life. -AZ Central interactions she has had with members of “they’re succeeding, not just surviving,” he Fire Marshals Office.” That moment was a gift, and Patricia and I the community.” said. Akiachak and Napakiak are both located wanted to give back. We decided to take one “Governor Noem has spent considerable along the Kuskokwim River in the Yukon– Student group unites Native of the virtues and values of tribal nations, time in Pine Ridge building relationships - Milwaukee News Service Kuskokwim Delta. in this case the Lakota, we took the virtue American kids through sports with tribal members, visiting businesses, - Indianz.com of the giveaway and made our own life, a discussing economic development, and Actress hopes to open more doors lifetime giveaway.” “Did everyone have fun today?” Asked working with leadership,” reads the Native American tribes seek ban After prayers, thanks and honor songs, Maggie Bidasolo, a sophomore sports statement. for Native Americans Steve Hill, Tuscarora, sang and offered each business major and executive co-director of “It’s unfortunate that the governor was on public hunting of grizzly bears of the youth eagle feathers. Youth Movement. It was the end of a long welcomed by Oglala Sioux’s leadership Newcomer Sivan Alyra Rose represents Several of the youth offered comments day of playing outside at Papé Field, PK when resources were needed during recent a rarity as one of the few people of Native BILLINGS, MT.-- Native American to Indian Country Today about the closing Park and Autzen Stadium. storms, but communication has been cut off American descent to star in a Netflix series — leaders pressed lawmakers in Congress to ceremony as well as the four-day academy She was addressing a crowd of kids when she has tried to directly interact with or any television series, for that matter. But adopt permanent protections for grizzly in which youth learned how to coordinate gathered around her, who unanimously members of the Pine Ridge community.” she hopes her breakthrough in “Chambers” bears, a species widely revered by tribes their efforts, work with mentors, and best answered with a resounding “Yeah!” “The governor will continue working to will encourage more opportunities for but that has been proposed for hunting in practices on moving their dreams forward. About 300 kids came from Native engage with tribal members, stay in contact women like her. Wyoming and Idaho. Jacob Crane, Tsuut’ina Nation, said American communities across Oregon, with tribal leadership, and maintain her “I think ‘Chambers’ is really (at the Proposed legislation would block “This was a great honor. It didn’t seem Southwest Washington and California to the efforts to build relationships with the tribes.” forefront of) an important conversation of grizzly hunting in the Lower 48 states, like a conference at all. It was more like a University of Oregon for a field day. Youth The Pine Ridge Reservation, straddling inclusion and how simple it really can be,” regardless of the species’ population size, ceremony. It was a good cultural experience Movement, the non-profit organization that Oglala Lakota, the southern half of Jackson said the 19-year-old actress from the San and allow for the reintroduction of bruins to mixing tradition and helping us toward our hosted the field day, aims to unite young County and Bennett County, takes up Carlos Apache tribe. tribal lands. goals. It was like a prayer.” Native Americans to build community and approximately 3,500 square miles of the The show centers around Sasha Yazzie, Grizzlies play a central role in the Freddy Gipp, who in addition to encourage healthy living through sports. state. who receives a heart transplant and starts traditions and ceremonies of many tribes, becoming a Dreamstarter was named a “25 “Our Youth Movement is built on three Noem signed the Pipeline Package at the having disturbing visions and impulses that said former Hopi Tribe chairman Benjamin Under 25 Native Youth Leaders” by United pillars: sport, education and community,” end of March as a way to “ensure the safety lead her on a quest to learn more about her Nuvamsa. Some Native Americans refer National Indian Tribal Youth (UNITY) said Bidasolo said. Along with the sports and efficiency of pipeline construction in deceased donor. to them as “Uncle” or “Grandfather” and ‘This was a great experience. I want Indian activities, the field day promoted education South Dakota.” The show also explores real-life cultural consider the animals to be healers. Country to know how to utilize powwows as through language learning, nutrition and art One of the bills approved is the Riot issues affecting Native Americans, including “It’s like the eagle; we don’t shoot them economic opportunities… I truly feel this is stations while encouraging leadership and Boosting Act, which allows officials to the use of its mascots and other imagery in because it’s that sacred,” said Nuvamsa, a a dream come true to have this opportunity, I sportsmanship, she said. collect money from demonstrators convicted mainstream culture. In one scene, Sasha sees member of the tribe’s Hopi Bear Clan. “It feel fortunate, grateful and blessed.” The organization was started by UO of “riot boosting,” or fueling riots. a mural of a Native American on horseback, has a really, really deep meaning for us, and Hope Gamble, Dine’, who is seeking alumnus Jesse Schwarz, now a Nike content “I fully support the freedoms of speech wearing a feathered headdress and lifting a we have to preserve and respect it.” to tell Navajo creation stories through strategy manager, in 2012 while he was in and assembly, but we must also have clear tomahawk into the air. But the push for permanent protections comics, said she was also appreciative for the Warsaw Sports Business Club. expectations and the rule of law,” said Noem “I went to a high school that was off elicited sharp criticism from some the opportunity. “This is such a great way to Eight years ago, then-sophomore in a statement. “My pipeline bills make a reservation town and there’s so much Republicans as a House subcommittee help publicize what I am doing. If it wasn’t Schwarz was an ethnic studies major who clear that we will not let rioters control our insensitivity in the world. Those kinds took up the legislation. The backlash stems for Dreamstarters, I might only be able to had recently switched from the sports economic development.” of murals, they’re everywhere. We have from growing pressure by state officials publicize my work to my own school about business major at UO. He was inspired when The ACLU filed a lawsuit against the football teams, we have high schools across in the Northern Rockies to allow hunting it. With the grant, it can go out further in the Sam McCracken, founder of the Nike N7 governor and accused the act of violating the the country that love to wear war bonnets because of grizzly attacks on livestock and public. My end goal is to teach more of my initiative that connects Native American kids First and 14th Amendments by limiting free to their football games on Friday nights,” occasionally people. culture.” with Nike gear to promote healthy living, speech and rights to due process. said Rose. “We’ve got to stop covering up The House panel’s ranking Republican, At the evenings’ end, Billy Mills draped spoke at a club meeting. He sent McCracken “No one should have to fear the that there’s bad things in the world and that California Rep. Tom McClintock, said the blankets over the shoulders of the Native an email with seven ideas of how to expand government coming after them for exercising there’s insensitivity.” proposal runs counter to the conclusions of youth. the organization’s impact and his idea for a their First Amendment rights,” Courtney Rose hopes that the show gives a more government scientists. They say grizzlies field day stuck. Bowie, legal director of the ACLU of South realistic representation of Native American have made significant strides toward - Indian Country Today “I still wanted to work with sports, but Dakota, said in a statement. “That is exactly culture, calling her character “an Instagram recovery, particularly in and around my focus was really around the power of what the Constitution protects against, loving, super cute teen girl.” Yellowstone National Park. “The science tells us the population is Gabby Lemieux paves way for sport and the transcending ability for sport and why we’re taking these laws to court. “And that’s literally everyone else on to change lives, whether it’s through the Whatever one’s views on the pipeline, the the (reservation) that I grew up with,” said fully recovered,” McClintock said. “This Native atheletes influence that professional sports has on laws threaten the First Amendment rights of Rose. “That’s all I hope they see, too, is bill substitutes emotional, ideological and society or the influence that participating in South Dakotans on every side of the issue.” like, ‘Yeah, she’s very normal.’ And Native sentimental biases that are the polar opposite Dwight Barker knew his daughter might sports has on society,” Schwarz said. Several Native American groups have American, the subject, it sounds dark and it’s of scientific resource management.” have a future in golf when she started asking Youth Movement offers an opportunity protested the extension of the Keystone XL ominous and so big and grand, but ... we’re Last fall, a federal judge in Montana to go to the course with him on a daily basis. for Native American kids to step outside Pipeline, which would cut through Montana still here and we’re nice people.” blocked grizzly hunts days before they were Gabby Lemieux was just 6 years old their comfort zones for a day, meet other and South Dakota, including some tribal Besides Rose, other Native Americans scheduled to begin. The ruling also restored when she began going, along with sister kids their age and learn about the university. lands. who are part of the series include executive threatened species status for about 700 bears Tyler, who is four years older. The trio spent Over the years, it has grown to host events at story editor Jason Gavin, as well as other in the three-state Yellowstone region. time on the driving range and putting green. universities across the country. - Click on Detroit Native American cast and crew. An appeal filed by attorneys for the U.S. Lemieux started out going once a week, but The kids, ranging from fifth through “It was nice knowing that it didn’t start Fish and Wildlife Service is pending before that quickly turned into two or three times a eighth graders, began their day at the at me, to have to make calls and to make the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. week. It wasn’t long before she was begging Class makes sure Native American Grizzly bears were nearly exterminated Many Nations Longhouse on campus, then youths never forget their rich heritage sure everything’s right. Yes, I am one of the to go every day. walked to the EMU Amphitheater for a newer generation Native American actors across much of the U.S. by hunting and The sport is even more of a passion for trapping early last century. They received discussion about the flags surrounding it In the back of the classroom on the but I’m not the only one,” said Rose. “It was Lemieux now than it was back then. Now 21 — each represents one of the nine federally nice knowing that I didn’t have to do all the federal protections in 1975, and they have and living in Scottsdale, Lemieux is trying second floor of the Gerald L. Ignace Indian since slowly rebounded in portions of recognized Oregon tribes. Health Center, a “Native American Nations checks and balances. There were people all to work her way up to the LPGA Tour while “This is kind of the first opportunity the way at the beginning.” Montana, Wyoming and Idaho. Grizzly paving the way for other Native American Map” poster hangs on the wall. hunting is allowed in Alaska. that I saw for Native kids to be represented Brian Frejo, cultural coordinator at the The series also co-stars Uma Thurman athletes. She is registered with the ShoPointe and celebrated within a community of and Tony Goldwyn as the donor’s parents. Paiute Tribes of the Duck Valley Indian health center, 930 W. Historic Mitchell St., -Salt Lake City Tribune other Native kids. That goes a long way in passes out Post-it notes to the dozen students Rose praised the pair for welcoming her Reservation. my eyes,” said Ryan Vidales, a freshman and treating her as an equal despite her 12A • The Seminole Tribune • May 31, 2019

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19-SHRH-3944 - June Seminole Tribune Ad_v2.indd 1 5/15/2019 12:39:23 PM 1B • The Seminole Tribune •May 31, 2019 Education B From Harvard to Yale, Tous Jumper Young Sr. embraces Ivy League education

BY KEVIN JOHNSON psychology so I could come back and try Senior Editor to help people who are struggling with that now,” he said. When he arrived at Harvard in 2015, HOLLYWOOD — Some his classes included neuroscience, memory grandmotherly advice has taken Tous recovery and abnormal psychology. He lived Jumper Young Sr. on an academic path few in Adams House on campus, a dormitory grandsons – or anyone – can match. that has been the college residence of such The late Betty Mae Jumper’s emphasis notable figures as Franklin Roosevelt, Henry on education when Tous was a youngster Kissinger, William Randolph Hearst, Robert and into adulthood is paying off. At age 43, Frost, Charles Schumer and John Lithgow. he’s found his education niche, and it’s laced The school’s Widener Library was Jumper with ivy. Young’s second home where he spent just Damon Scott A few years ago Jumper attended about all his time when he wasn’t in classes. From left, at the Weiss School are Dr. Tammy Ferguson, head of school; Lee Zepeda, executive director Harvard University for a year as a visiting “Four to five times a week I’d get kicked of administration for the Seminole Tribe of Florida; and the Purvis family: Ben Jr., Cyndl, Shannon and student. Last year he completed a six- out of the library because it was closing Ben Sr. month program from the University of time,” he said. Pennsylvania’s Wharton School. This His academic focus has since shifted summer, he’s been accepted to attend Yale to business and economics. Last year he University as a visiting student as he pursues completed an entrepreneurship specialization a business degree. certification program from Wharton. He said Even the sky “Now I can say I’ve gone to Harvard, it was a six- month course that he finished in I’ve gone to Yale and I’ve attended Wharton less than two weeks. business school. No one can take that away His summer courses at Yale will center from me,” Jumper Young said. “I think if on elective requirements that he will use my grandma was here she’d be very proud toward earning a business degree. His course isn’t the limit for because that’s what she always pushed on load is four classes and 16 credits with us, go to school, go to school, go to school.” classes that include chemistry, logic and Jumper Young said his grandmother, ethics. At the same time, he’s taking another who was the first and only woman to serve Kevin Johnson four classes virtually through Miami-Dade as chairman of the Seminole Tribe of Yale-bound Tous Jumper Young Sr. and a very this 5th-grader College. He’s a participant in the Tribe’s Florida, always encouraged him to get as proud mom Scarlett Jumper gather for a photo. higher education program. much education as possible and then come “I’m really thankful they’ve supported back and help the Tribe. BY DAMON SCOTT directly involved in the second. me,” he said. Staff Reporter The second one – about the same “The education is a tremendous they’re not really looking out for the people Jumper Young said he would like opportunity and [to] come back to the Tribe size as the first and also approved by per se … It’s good to have our own people to use his business knowledge to pursue NASA (National Aeronautics and Space and help in whatever capacity you can with the agenda of our people to grow and agriculture-related opportunites, such as PALM BEACH GARDENS — whether it’s in office or a business capacity Administration) – will have a different become successful and profitable,” he said. opening a turkey farm. From there, he’d He met the governor at Florida Space mission. or teaching,” Jumper Young said. As a kid, about the only thing Jumper like to use profits and his past experience to Day in Tallahassee and has worked with Jumper Young’s mother, Scarlett Instead of studying bacteria in space, Young knew about Ivy League schools is help Native Americans who struggle with Congressman Brian Mast. He was part of students will test the efficiency of capacitors Jumper, is a big fan of her son and his that Seminoles couldn’t afford to attend addictions. a presentation for the Seminole Tribe’s academic pursuits at some of the world’s in space instead of regular batteries. them. “I have a dream of opening an all executive director of administration, Lee Purvis, whose parents are Shannon and most renowned institutions. “I grew up in Hollywood in a double- Native American rehab center that is free Zepeda. He’s been working with classmates “I’m very proud of him continuing Ben Sr., is looking forward to his evolving wide [trailer home]. To step on the campus to Natives,” he said, pointing to the far on the launch of a satellite into space. And role in the program when he hits the sixth on and pressing on with his education and of Harvard was pretty amazing,” said Jumper greater poverty, alcohol and drug rates that that’s just a few of his accomplishments. with the goals he has set. I’ve been blessed grade next year. Purvis’ younger sister Young, who attended Driftwood Elementary Natives deal with compared to the rest of the It’s pretty clear Ben Purvis Jr. is not Cyndl also attends Weiss School. The family with him with his drive for education,” she and Hollywood Christian School. He was population. your typical fifth-grader. said. “It doesn’t matter what age you are to divides their time between Palm Beach a quarterback for Hollywood Christian and In addition to his academic life, Jumper On May 3, Purvis was part of an Gardens and Okeechobee. pursue whatever your dreams are, where faced off against Westminster Christian’s Young has nine grown children and four event at the Weiss School in Palm Beach you want to go. [Tribal members] have such Purvis and his Weiss School team quarterback Alex Rodriguez, who went on grandchildren. Gardens where meetups and special TEDx members meet regularly throughout the opportunities to do this now whereas 50, 60 to become one of baseball’s biggest stars. “I’m kind of an empty nester. I don’t presentations took place. It was all part of years ago it wasn’t there.” week. They went to Florida Space Day as After high school, Jumper Young have kids at home. I’m afforded the time celebrating the students and the school’s part a policy team that is focused on the Jumper Young’s academic concentration attended the University of Miami on where I can travel,” he said. efforts in STEM (science, technology, centers on business. He’s learning from legislative efforts of the satellite program. an academic scholarship, but he didn’t He hopes his educational journey – engineering and mathematics) and aerospace While at Space Day, Purvis attended a the best. Harvard, Yale and Wharton are graduate. He admitted that partying and from Cambridge to New Haven and beyond initiatives. consistently among the upper echelon in best press conference with Gov. Ron DeSantis drinking derailed his college career at that – can serve as a model for younger Seminole Zepeda and Dr. Tammy Ferguson, head and met lawmakers in the Senate chamber. business school rankings. He said he’s been time, and his life. students just as his grandmother Betty Mae of school, were on hand to hear presentations working on five business plans related to He’s gone to a number of events and has “I was this poor Indian kid from the did. from the students, including from Purvis. met with a slew of legislators to educate them some of Florida’s biggest economic drivers: reservation and I went to the University of “Trying to be an encourager of the Purvis is a member of the Wolverine agriculture, travel, tourism, insurance and about the importance of funding programs Miami in Coral Gables, Florida, and I was young people to go to school and not just CubeSat Development Team (WCDT) at the like the one at the Weiss School. financial institutions. overwhelmed. I stepped into something live on their dividend, but to grow mentally school. He’s learning the ropes toward the Jumper believes those from the Tribe Purvis’ group worked closely with Rep. I wasn’t ready for. I went down that path. and grow their intellect, and being tooled launch of a high altitude balloon. Mast, a Republican, whose Florida 18th whose education focuses on business and For 20 years, I struggled with alcohol and and equipped to not just live on the rez but If it sounds a little complex, it is. But economics can better serve the Tribe in district covers an area from Fort Pierce to drug addiction and a lot of the bad stuff that to conduct business on the outside with Kevin L. Simmons and his staff are used to Palm Beach. dealings with vendors or business compared comes from living on the streets. outsiders and be that front,” he said. seeing Weiss School students like Purvis to outside sources. WCDT members worked with Mast’s “I’m going to Yale now, but I got a When Harvard and Yale meet in sports, shine. legislative director to compose a resolution “Those with the education and tooling doctorate in hard knocks. I’ve seen stuff that which they did last year in the Ivy League Science educator Simmons is the force can say ‘hey, this is good for you or this is for increased funding for NASA projects I hope people never see in their life,” he said. men’s basketball championship, Jumper behind two Weiss School satellites, one such as its CubeSat Launch Initiative. not going to be good for you,’ ‘this is good Addiction was a big reason why Young said he’ll cheer for both teams. that’s already in space (the WeissSat-1) and for our people or this is not good for our Last year, Mast introduced a WeissSat-1 psychology was his initial choice of a major “I’ll have to get a house-divided shirt. one that soon will be (the CapSat-1). resolution in the U.S. House. people’ instead of having outsiders say this when he resumed his academic career. One side Harvard, one side Yale,” he said. Simmons came to the Weiss School is good for you but really it’s not … because “We learned how to debate with “That’s why I wanted to go into about four years ago to create a program that senators, but my favorite part [of working would give students the chance to design, on the legislative team] was we had to find build and launch satellites. He teaches solutions for problems that occurred. We had aerospace as an elective and meets each to work together as a team,” Purvis said at week with about 40 students involved in the the May 3rd event. PECS Students of the Month - April 2019 satellite program. Meanwhile, now that the CapSat-1 Late last year, students launched the first satellite is launched into orbit, the students small satellite on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. will use the information they gather to build Elementary School Mikayle Summeralls Tyler Peacock It was sent into space carrying extremophile a rover they hope will be sent to the moon. Serenity Bishop Augustice Jumper Ringo Billie bacteria. Students wanted to know if the No doubt Purvis will be involved in that Malieue Bonilla Koni Osceola bacteria could survive. project as well. Bradley Villanueva J. Wayoo Billie The launch marked the first time a The Weiss School, located at 4176 Dylanie Peak Jaelee Weimann Middle School satellite built by middle school students was Burns Road, is a pre-K through eighth-grade Kanae Jumper Meleah Billie Madison Taylor sent into orbit. Purvis is expected to be more private school with about 300 students. Aliyana Torres Landon French Valentine Martinez Travis Mitchell Jace Johns Shylynn Testerman Brace Miller Hinton “JB” Anderson Lupe Mora-Lara Juan Solis Steel Gopher

Courtesy photos PECS Students of the Month for April 2019. 2B • The Seminole Tribune •May 31, 2019 Preschoolers celebrate graduation

BY BEVERLY BIDNEY Staff Reporter

After a few years in the comfort and safety of preschool, preschoolers around the reservations donned caps and gowns, said goodbye to what was and took their first steps into what will be their future.

IMMOKALEE

One at a time, eight graduates proudly walked through a gauntlet of loved ones as they made their way down the red carpet and onto the stage May 1 for the Immokalee Preschool graduation. “Teamwork between parents and teachers made this possible,” said Michelle Ford, preschool center manager. “The school puts great importance on learning, culture, friendship and having fun. They have a strong foundation and we feel we have given them a great start in life.” The youngsters entertained the crowd with songs and skits. The dignitaries thanked the school and the parents for their efforts with the children. The personalities of the Beverly Bidney graduates came through as they walked Autumn Jumper sings “America the Beautiful” down the carpet. at the beginning of the Big Cypress Preschool “This is such a great day for the graduation program. Tribe,” said Lee Zepeda, executive director Beverly Bidney of administration. “I think I see a future An excited group of Big Cypress Preschool graduates make their way to the ceremony on May 15.

Beverly Bidney With tassel in hand, Jonathan Rodriguez proudly walks down the red carpet to collect his Immokalee Preschool diploma on May 1. Beverly Bidney Graduate Elias Billie feels the love from his grandmother Cecelia Tigertail and mother Sonia Beverly Bidney Billie at the Big Cypress Preschool graduation. April Billie gives daughter Azaliah Billie a big kiss as she makes her way down the aisle to receive her Big Cypress Preschool diploma. chairman out there; he was busy greeting everyone.” Elected officials weighed in on the significance of the day. “We have eight future leaders here,” said President Mitchell Cypress. “I’m sure you will continue your educations and come Beverly Bidney back and work for the Tribe.” Twins Kaillin and Lillie Coleman get some help “I’m proud of the parents for keeping from mother Kalgary Johns as they make their your kids in school here,” said Big Cypress way down the aisle to get their preschool Councilman Mondo Tiger. “This is just one diplomas at the Brighton Preschool graduation.

Beverly Bidney Beverly Bidney Wearing a shirt, tie, cap and gown, Kih’yon Hodge us all set to graduate from Brighton Preschool. Jordan Rodriguez introduces herself to the crowd at the Immokalee Preschool graduation. into the preschool going forward. The proud young grads made their way through the crowd to their diplomas, which came with handshakes all around, and then joined their families for a hibachi style lunch under the balloon palm trees.

BRIGHTON

With 22 children, Brighton had the largest graduating class of any Seminole preschool this year. The crowded stage was echoed multiple times over in the audience as family and friends filled the Veterans Building to the brim on May 17 for the graduation. Beverly Bidney The class of three and four year old Immokalee Preschool graduate Nathanael Osceola gives Big Cypress Board Rep. Joe Frank a high five students is a young one; they will attend as preschool center manager Michelle Ford, Big Cypress Councilman Mondo Tiger and Immokalee Pre-K at Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School Council project manager Ray Garza look on. next year. Derrick Tiger “Take care of these young ones because Hollywood Preschool graduates sing a traditional song with culture instructor Paul Buster. of many graduations you will go to.” they are our future,” said Brighton Board Ray Garza, Immokalee Council project Rep. Larry Howard. illustrations for “Brown Bear” book, which from language instructor Laverne Thomas. manager, thanked the staff for preparing the Colorful balloons and tablecloths was read by two students. Individuals had their own relationship with children for the next chapter of their lives. created a festive atmosphere. The students Each student walked to center stage and the stage; some milked the time for all it was “Our kids are our future and you got said the pledge and performed the song “10 faced the crowded room alone and introduced worth, others couldn’t wait to flee. them off to a good start,” said Big Cypress Little Indians” in Creek as well as acted as themselves in Creek, with a little help After a trip down memory lane in the Board Rep. Joe Frank. form of a slide show, the grads did what With that, kids found their families and they came to do. Diplomas in hands, the enjoyed a celebratory luncheon together. triumphant young graduates joined their families for a festive lunch. BIG CYPRESS HOLLYWOOD In a room decked out with a Hawaiian theme, preschoolers prepared to take their The Hollywood Preschool held a first graduation walk toward the next phase royalty-themed graduation for the four year- of their lives. Parents, family and friends old class on May 22 at Seminole Estates. filled the Boys & Girls Club auditorium May Family, friends, and the students themselves 15 as they waited for the little graduates in were dressed to impress. Attire consisted of their caps and gowns. formal and traditional clothing. But first, a few words to get them on The little graduates were escorted down their way. a red carpet into the ceremony by parents “The door is wide open to them for and other family members in royal fashion. whatever they choose,” said President Students all showed off their reading skills Cypress. “I’m proud of every one of them.” by reading a few sentences from a children’s Rep. Frank thanked the staff and parents book. They also performed songs with for working together on a job well done. culture instructor Paul Buster playing guitar. “Enjoy learning, it’s a lifetime trip,” All 17 students received a diploma and he said. “May this be just the first of many were congratulated by President Mitchell graduations.” Cypress, Hollywood Councilman Chris Derrick Tiger The 10 graduates will attend the Osceola and Hollywood Board Rep. Gordon “Ollie” Wareham. Hollywood Board Rep. Gordon “Ollie” Wareham, Ahfachkee School in the fall. Preschool manager Andrea Jumper plans to infuse Derrick Tiger left, and Hollywood Councilman Chris Osceola Derrick Tiger contributed to this story. congratulate a Hollywood Preschool graduate. more of the Ahfachkee culture curriculum Hollywood Preschoolers line up in their caps and gowns as the graduation ceremony comes to a close. 3B • The Seminole Tribune • May 31, 2019 Tribal students at Sagemont share their inspirations BY TRIBUNE STAFF

WESTON — Tribal students at The Sagemont School’s Lower School researched, created and presented projects about famous people who have been inspirations to them in some way. As part of the Wax Museum program in April, the students not only did major research on their specific persons of choice but they also had to dress for the part. Represented were a Native American gold medal Olympian and Pro Football Hall of Famer (Jim Thorpe), a Native American war hero (Sitting Bull), an astronaut (Valentina Tereshkov), a First Lady (Michelle Obama), a civil rights leader (Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.) and a saint (Mother Teresa). Yvette Payne/CSSS Sagemont student Kyngston Sanders provides information about Sitting Bull during the school’s Wax Museum project.

Yvette Payne/CSSS (3) Sagemont students Aiyana Crespo (Valentina Tereshkova), left, Kaydence Green (Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.), above center, and Amirani Brooks (Mother Teresa), above right, dress their parts as they showcase what they learned about someone who inspires them.

Tribal students at Sagemont who participated in the Lower School’s Wax Museum project included: Kyngston Sanders Sitting Bull Hollywood Erica Sanders Michelle Obama Hollywood Kaydence Green Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Big Cypress Amirani Brooks Mother Theresa Big Cypress Teena Marie Jim Thorpe Big Cypress Aiyana Crespo Valentina Tereshkova Big Cypress Yvette Payne/CSSS (2) Sagemont students Erica Sanders, left, and Teena Marie, right, show their research on their inspirations, which were Michelle Obama and Jim Thorpe, respectively.

Free college guidebook available Prom night for The American Indian College provides content related to how to others can download the book for Fund, with support from the Andrew get into college, choose a school, free on the College Fund’s website. Mellon Foundation, has published pay for it, and what to expect the Hard copies may be available “Native Pathways: A College- first year in a way that speaks to for some high schools. Email Ahfachkee at Hard Rock Going Guidebook” for Native Native cultures and experiences as [email protected] American high school students students consider attending college. for more information. seeking higher education. The book Students, school counselors, and

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Damon Scott Athena Bert, Gabby Puente and Marina Garcia enjoy their time at the Ahfachkee School prom. THE VANGUARD SCHOOL 22000 HIGHWAY 27 LAKE WALES, FLORIDA 33859 Robert Kippenberger photo www.vanguardschool.org Ahfachkee’s royalty is represented by Prom King Bradin Jim and Prom Queen Thomlynn Billie. 4B • The Seminole Tribune • May 31, 2019 Alyssa Madrigal wins first place in Ahfachkee students 4-H/Tropicana Public Speaking Contest rock the house at BY TRIBUNE STAFF Alyssa, 11, is the daughter of Letty and Howard Madrigal. The contest helps young people write MOORE HAVEN — Pemayetv and deliver a speech. According to the spring concert Emahakv Charter School fifth-grader Florida 4-H website, more than 150,000 Alyssa Madrigal won first place in the 4-H/ students in grades 4-6 in over 50 Florida BY BEVERLY BIDNEY a song from the video game Destiny 2. He Tropicana Public Speaking Contest for counties participate in the contest annually. Glades County on May 21 at the Doyle Staff Reporter liked the music so took it upon himself to Tropicana, which has sponsored the learn it. Connor Building in Moore Haven. Prior to contest since 1969, provides classroom this she also won first place in both the class “I learned it by ear and I got the music materials, medallions, trophies, scholarships BIG CYPRESS — After only four for it,” Richard said. “I like the way it and school competition. Her speech was and refreshments as part of the program. months playing musical instruments, titled “What My Dogs Think About.” sounds, but I listen to a lot of different types Ahfachkee School students showed what of music.” practice and motivation can do as they The fifth grade, backed by the high performed a rousing, pop-inspired spring school band on instruments, sang the Beatles’ concert April 30 for family, friends and other “Let It Be” as many in the audience sang students. along with them. The show ended with the

Courtesy photos (2) Above, Alyssa Madrigal holds the first place plaque she won on May 21 in the 4-H/Tropicana Public Speaking Contest for Glades County. With Alyssa are Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School teachers are her 5th-grade language arts teacher Michelle Pritchard, left, and her former 4th-grade teacher Rachel Jones. In the back is PECS principal Brian Greseth. In the photo at left, Alyssa receives the award. Heith Lawrence stars as the Tin Man in ‘Wizard of Oz’

BY BEVERLY BIDNEY Beverly Bidney Staff Reporter Ahfachkee fifth-graders perform “Let it Be” by the Beatles April 30 at the school’s spring concert.

The students demonstrated their MOORE HAVEN — Heith Lawrence’s band performing Metric’s “Black Sheep.” new-found skills on guitar, bass, ukulele, “I thought it went very well for only four theater career has gone over the rainbow at keyboards and drums on songs from the Moore Haven Middle/High School, where months of practice,” Taveras said. “It was Beatles, contemporary artists and even a very impressive. They liked what they were he starred as the Tin Man in a two-night run video game. of “The Wizard of Oz” on May 10 and 11. playing, which had a lot to do with it. I just Music teacher Cesar Taveras joined the make sure they have fun.” This was Heith’s second year on the staff in January and set out to teach students stage; as a freshman last year he starred in to play the music they wanted to play. “Little Shop of Horrors” and learned he Student centered learning is the 21st century loved to perform. way of teaching, so under audience-friendly “It feels pretty good this year,” Heith K-12 guidelines, Taveras let the students said as he waited for makeup in the green choose the songs they wanted to learn. room before dress rehearsal on May 9. “Last “I want them to learn to enjoy playing year I had more to worry about. Now I’m not music and performing,” he said. “My number the main character so it takes a lot off me.” one goal is to have them enjoy playing other As a veteran performer, Heith is much people’s music and then learn to create their more comfortable on the stage and most own.” students recognize him. Although he said the Students from first, fifth, sixth and role of Tin Man is more challenging. high school performed in the school’s first “I put a lot more emotion into him,” ensemble concert with instruments. Taveras, said the 10th-grader from the Brighton who has been a music teacher for more Reservation. than 20 years, had them practice every day The musical, based on L. Frank Baum’s leading up to the concert. children’s book “The Wonderful Wizard of “Students got to choose their Oz” written in 1900, follows the adventures instruments,” said Principal Dorothy Cain. of Dorothy, the Scarecrow, Tin Man and “They are excited because they are playing Cowardly Lion as they make their way to things they like and hear. You get them the Emerald City to ask the Wizard of Oz to playing that music and then you can open Beverly Bidney grant their wishes. Along the way, trouble their repertoire and introduce them to other Emily Zicardo plays guitar with the band at the ensues in the guise of the Wicked Witch of areas of music.” Ahfachkee spring concert. the West. Munchkins, apple-throwing trees, Crystal Garcia chose bass as her poppies and flying monkeys all have time in instrument, which is the backbone of any the spotlight. rhythm section. The 40-person cast was a large one and “I saw one of my favorite bands had a included about 25 fourth- and- fifth-graders cool bass player and I wanted to be just like from Moore Haven Elementary School. The him,” Crystal said. “You have to keep up rest were middle and high school students. with the music; as soon as you stop you lose A crew of seven students managed the eight track of it.” sets and the many set changes during the The theme of the concert was “From 12 show. Music director Bryan Browning was bars to 32: A Celebration of Popular Music.” proud of his entire cast, but had a lot of The show opened with Laylah Billie, Jade praise for the lead characters. Billie and Tommie Stockton singing the “These guys are very talented,” classic Santana song “Black Magic Woman,” Browning said. “You just have to tell them a 12-bar blues song. once – you don’t even have to finish telling “This was the first time I performed with them and they know what to do.” a band,” said Laylah Billie, who has been More than 500 attended the singing since she was 5 years old. “It was performances, which went off without a really good and it’s awesome being here.” hitch. First-graders took the stage next and Beverly Bidney sang Chuck Berry’s “Roll Over Beethoven” Heith Lawrence, center, plays the Tin Man in the and the Beatles’ “Yellow Submarine” and Moore Haven Middle High School production of “Octopus’ Garden.” Sixth graders sang a the “Wizard of Oz” on May 10-11. couple of newer songs, “Wanted You” by NAV and “The Night Begins to Shine” by B.E.R. The high schoolers followed them for “On Melancholy Hill” by Gorillaz. “It’s fun and exciting being on stage,” said drummer Nushee Billie. Beverly Bidney The stage cleared and Richard Billie sat Pianist Richard Billie performs “Journey,” a song down at the keyboard and played “Journey,” from the Destiny 2 video game.

Beverly Bidney Beverly Bidney Heith Lawrence sits still as Jessica Browning applies his silver makeup to transform him into the Tin Man. Jade Billie, Layla Billie and Tommie Stockton harmonize as they sing at the Ahfachkee spring concert. 5B • The Seminole Tribune • May 31, 2019 PECS honors its alumni with annual grad walk BY KEVIN JOHNSON colors. All plan to attend higher education Senior Editor institutions. Despite it being an annual occurance, emotions still fill the air; proof of that came BRIGHTON — Before they walk from Principal Brian Greseth, who teared up into the next chapter of their lives, former a bit while telling the students how proud he Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School students is of them and their accomplishments. Other gladly returned to the school on May 22 staff members for an afternoon provided similar of appreciation, sentiments. congratulations The seniors and reminiscing. sat back and It is an enjoyed fond annual rite of memories of their passage each May days at PECS at PECS as the thanks to a video pre-K through made by teacher grade 8 school Quentin Pritchard. provides a classy From field trips hero’s welcome to culture days to its alumni to athletics and who are about everything else in to graduate from between, hundreds high school. of photos captured This year’s the spirit of PECS’ participants class of 2015. were seniors After they from Moore made a victory lap Haven High past all the school’s School (Andrew classrooms, which Fish, Kano had students and Puente, Conner teachers lined up Thomas and Kevin Johnson with cheers, high- Aiden Tommie), Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School principal Brian fives and hugs, Okeechobee High Greseth joins his former students for a selfie as the the students had School (Krysta school honored its alumni from the class of 2019. two more send-off Burton, Cady moments. They Osceola and shared memories Lucas Osceola) and Lake Placid High School with former PECS teacher Sarah Williams Kevin Johnson (Raeley Matthews). Each donned graduation through a FaceTime chat and took a group This year’s grad walk participants at Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School form a half-circle at midcourt in the school’s gymnasium on May 22 in Brighton. caps and gowns in their high school selfie with Greseth for one final memory. The high school seniors are, from left, Cady Osceola (Okeechobee), Aiden Tommie (Moore Haven), Krysta Burton (Okeechobee), Kano Puente (Moore Haven), Raeley Matthews (Lake Placid), Andrew Fish (Moore Haven), Lucas Osceola (Okeechobee) and Conner Thomas (Moore Haven).

Kevin Johnson Kevin Johnson Students and staff cheer for Krysta Burton and Raeley Matthews during the annual grad walk at PECS. High school seniors from the class of 2019 walk through a corridor at Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School, where they attended elementary and middle school.

F GRADUATION From page 1A The class of 2019 could be the largest Ahfachkee has graduated; no one could remember a larger one. “This is part of history to see so many graduates,” said Lee Zepeda, executive director of administration, in his keynote address. “Don’t choose a career; follow your calling. Don’t choose a position; follow your purpose. The decisions you make will shape you. Think about what comes naturally to you, where you feel most at home. Live with purpose and remember, you were made to be free.” An abundance of gifts were bestowed on the class. Councilman Tiger provided class rings, President Cypress provided gift bags filled with useful technology and Parent Teacher Student Organization President Lenore Roberts provided necklaces and other gifts. “This is a huge accomplishment you’ve made,” Roberts said. “It took three wars and a long time for us to get here and we are still here as the Seminole people. Carry that with you with a lot of pride. Honor all those people who sacrificed to get here; honor that every day. What steps will you take to remain the Seminole Tribe? Take giant steps for your people.” Beverly Bidney Beverly Bidney In a longstanding school tradition, The Ahfachkee School Class of 2019 poses together before their graduation ceremony May 21 in Immokalee. Janessa Jones hugs her brother as she presents graduates left the stage and presented him with a gratitude gift during the Ahfachkee gratitude gifts to their loved ones. Love and graduation ceremony. hugs ensued. A new tradition also began; will study political science, Native American come back and work for our Tribe,” she said. honor cords for community service honors. studies and business administration. “Thank you to the Tribe for investing in its Students who had 75-99 hours received a “We are the Tribe’s future and I hope to youth; we are worth every cent.” silver cord; those who served more than 100 hours received a gold cord to wear with their cap and gown. The Warrior Award is presented to the student who demonstrated characteristics of being a warrior. Music teacher Cesar Taveras defined that characteristic as perseverance and presented the award to Crystal Garcia, who persevered during music classes and found her passion in the form of the bass guitar. “This is what perseverance looks like,” Taveras said. Special cords were awarded to salutatorian Thomlynn Billie and valedictorian Janessa Jones, who gave the traditional valedictorian speech. The large size of the class allowed the students to form a strong bond. “I’m glad we made it through together and am grateful to have a class that thrives on life,” said Jones, 17. “We are here to celebrate our accomplishments. I hear graduation marks the end of this extraordinary chapter; it’s bittersweet. We are all anxious to start the next one and it will be just as great or greater.” Beverly Bidney Beverly Bidney Jones will attend Haskell Indian Nations Greeted by applause, Crystal Garcia proudly holds the Warrior Award she won for embodying warrior Wovoka Tommie, Quenton Cypress and Glen Tiger sing the Seminole version of an honor song at the University in Lawrence, Kansas, where she characteristics such as perseverance. Ahfachkee graduation ceremony. 6B • The Seminole Tribune • May 31, 2019

Derrick Tiger Beverly Bidney Jr. Miss Florida Seminole Clarice Demayo poses Mom Nikki Baker holds her daughter Jhene Baker, for a photo with Dorothy Tommie at the Hollywood Beverly Bidney 6 months old, at the Immokalee Mother’s Day Mother’s Day event on May 11. Ashton Beer takes a selfie with daughter Maevery Beer and Elvis during the Big Cypress Mother’s Day luncheon on May 8. luncheon on May 10.

Derrick Tiger Lawanna Osceola-Niles holds her great-grandniece Lucianna Tiger during the Hollywood Mother’s Day event.

Beverly Bidney Above, three generations came together for Mother’s Day in BC, at right is Dale Grasshopper with granddaughters Johnnie Russell and Katherine Bert, who holds great-granddaughter Kiara Jackson.

Beverly Bidney Beverly Bidney Mom Christina Bhagwandin, seated, is surrounded by her children Preeya, Clea and Hemchand Cheyenne McInturff, Mary Motlow Sanchez, Priscilla Sigurani and Nancy Bhagwandin, Zain Yzaguirre and Leah Herrera at the Immokalee Mother’s Day luncheon. Motlow try their luck at bingo on May 10 at the Immokalee Mother’s Day celebration. Beverly Bidney The Hall girls celebrate Mother’s Day together in Big Cypress. Matriarch Moleana Hall, at right seated, revels in the company of her daughters Lily Hall, Deidra Hall and Liza Hall.

Beverly Bidney Beverly Bidney Maverick Osceola gets in close to Myra Chapo at the BC Beverly Bidney Mother’s Day is a family celebration for Brydgett Youngblood, Elliana Maldonado, Micki Mother’s Day event as she cuddles with their newborn Mabel Tichenor, seated, celebrates Mother’s Day in Brighton with Annette Jones and Gracie, Nevaeh, Burton and Grace Youngblood at the Brighton luncheon. baby Aero Osceola. Linda and Claudia Gore. 1C • The Seminole Tribune • May 31, 2019 Sports C With coach Mary Huff at the helm, Okeechobee goes on surprising postseason surge

BY KEVIN JOHNSON Senior Editor

PALM BEACH GARDENS — A year ago it was pitcher Sean Osceola who led Okeechobee High School’s baseball team on a postseason journey that surpassed expectations. This spring two Seminoles played a big role in another surprising playoff push. This time it was the softball team. The Brahmans, with head coach Mary Huff at the helm and freshman Elle Thomas at third base, turned a mediocre regular season into a stunning posteason. Nobody would have been surprised had Okeechobee, which was well under .500 all season, quietly exited the season in the district semifinals, but the Brahmans had other plans. Okeechobee found its groove in the postseason. The Brahmans beat Martin County, 4-1, in the Class 7A-District 13 semifinals and then stunned South Fork, 6-2, to win the district championship. Okeechobee kept the momentum going with a 2-1 win against Olympic Heights in a regional quarterfinal and a thrilling 8-5 regional semifinal triumph against Dwyer in nine innings. “It’s been amazing,” Huff said after Kevin Johnson the Brahmans ousted Dwyer on May 14 Mary Huff, head coach of the Okeechobee High School softball team, second from right, talks to her players after the team’s 8-5 win against Dwyer in a Class 7A regional semifinal May 14 in Palm Beach in Palm Beach Gardens. “These kids have Gardens. The Brahmans finished the regular season with a 7-16 record, but then reeled off four straight upsets that included a district championship and two regional tournament wins. come together and have proved themselves. If you asked me if we were going to be here at the beginning of the season, I probably of these kids.” “They follow Haley’s lead on the 17 with a 3-0 loss at home to Doral Charter generated from the playoffs carries into next would have said ‘we’ll give it a good shot, Thomas, who played for Pemayetv mound,” Hufff said. “She’s a great person to in a regional final. season. but we’re young and rebuilding.’ But these Emahakv Charter School the past few years, have on the mound. They want to have her So the 2007 Okeechobee team, which “When they set the standard like this for kids have proven themselves and tonight made the defensive play of the game in the back. She does well and they want to do well Huff played for, remains the only Brahmans going this far in the postseason, these kids was such a huge team effort. I’m so proud bottom of the fifth inning. With a runner at for her scoring runs.” squad to reach the state’s final four. aren’t going to want anything less than that,” first, Dwyer attempted a sacrifice bunt. A Okeechobee’s playoff surge ended May Huff hopes the experience and mojo she said. charging Thomas scooped up the ball almost in front of home plate. Her only option appeared to be to throw to first base in the direction she was moving, but she opted to try to nab the runner going to second. Throwing off her back foot while going in the opposite direction of the base, she made a SportsCenter-worthy play to get the out at second. “That was a huge play,” Huff said. “We practice that. Get up in their face. As soon as we know they’re bunting, we want to get that lead runner. Everybody automatically thinks go one, get the sacrifice out and that was their plan, but we were one step ahead of them the entire way. “She’s never practiced throwing it off her back foot like that. That was some Derek Jeter stuff. That was a great play.” After Okeechobee went ahead with three runs in the top of the ninth, Thomas handled two grounders and fired them to first for the first two outs of a 1-2-3 inning. Thomas also shined at the plate with a single, an RBI and a long fly ball out. In the district championship, she smacked a two- run double. “She’s putting some good swings on the ball,” Huff said. “She had a base hit and put one on the warning track. She’s a freshman. It’s only up from here for her. I’m happy Kevin Johnson with where she’s at.” Freshman Elle Thomas has her eyes on a popup as Okeechobee took advantage of its she handles third base duties for the Brahmans chances and received solid outings from Kevin Johnson during their playoff win against Dwyer. pitcher Haley Underhill. Okeechobee celebrates after knocking off Dwyer, 8-5, in nine innnings in a Class 7A regional semifinal in Palm Beach Gardens. Triple Crown series wraps up in BC BY KEVIN JOHNSON were rewarded for their consistency with the edged Ozzy Garza and Martha Suta by a and Fred Phillips won the Sonny Decarlo/ series. Results were tallied at the end of each Senior Editor grand championship trophy. fraction of a pound to claim third place. Clyde Tiger Memorial Big Bass Award at event by Hollywood Recreation site manager They had two third-place finishes and Garza and Suta won the tournament’s 4.9 pounds. Joe Collins at Moses Jumper Jr.’s dock. BIG CYPRESS — Another Triple one second during the series and finished final outing with 16.92 pounds. Wyatt Sarah Osceola and Dalton Koenes won Crown Fishing Series wrapped up May 11 on with a weight of 45.32 pounds, three in Osceola and Tyrell Osceola won the Sam the Josiah Johns Memorial Big Bass Award the canals of the Big Cypress Reservation. front of runner-up Andrea Tommie and Tony Nelson Big Bass Award at 4.94 pounds. to start the season. Ruben Anzualda and Frank Marrero Tommie. Allen Venzor and Ralph Sanchez Earlier in the season, Marie Phillips Sixteen teams of two competed in the

Kevin Johnson Triple Crown Series participants, including winners, gather on the canal shore near Moses Jumper Jr.’s dock in Big Cypress at the conclusion of the final fishing event of the series on May 11. 2C • The Seminole Tribune • May 31, 2019 Immokalee softball wins first-ever district title Ava Nunez pitches perfect game in semifinals

BY KEVIN JOHNSON Senior Editor

IMMOKALEE — More than 20 minutes had elapsed since the final out was recorded in Immokalee’s 2019 season, but the tears continued to stream down Jillian Rodriguez’s face. This season – her fourth and final one for Immokalee – carried plenty of significance and emotion, which is why it was so tough for her to say goodbye. Kevin Johnson “This season meant everything to me,” From left, Jalee Wilcox, Atley Driggers, Ashlynn Collins, Cyiah Avila and their horses get ready to compete in the Florida Junior High School Rodeo Rodriguez said as she fought back her Association’s finals on May 3 at Bergeron Rodeo Arena in Davie. emotions following the team’s 2-1 loss to Mariner in a 6A regional quarterfinal on May 8 at Immokalee High School. “This team is my favorite team. I would do anything for For the love of rodeo, middle these girls. They made it memorable, they made it historical. They came out and played their hearts out for us three seniors. I can’t thank them enough for everything they’ve schoolers showcase their skills done for us and this team. I know next year they’ll keep getting better and the years after. BY KEVIN JOHNSON National Junior High Rodeo Finals that will schooled. Courtesy photo Senior Editor be held in June in Huron, South Dakota. Breakaway calf roping, barrel racing, It’s not going to stop anytime soon.” Seminole sisters Ava Nunez, left, and Jillian This year’s team won the Collier County The association features kids in grades goat tying, pole bending and ribbon roping Rodriguez hold the Class 6A-District 12 trophy that 6, 7 and 8 who compete one weekend per are among the events they compete in against Athletic Conference for the second year in their Immokalee High School softball team won. It a row, but it also accomplished two things DAVIE — They climb aboard horses month during the school year at arenas in other junior high schoolers. was the team’s first-ever district championship with names such as Apache, Batman, Kicks LaBelle, Moore Haven, Okeechobee and In the finals at Bergeron, Jalee finished no other softball team at Immokalee had ever title. done: win a district championship and play and Toots. the Junior Cypress Rodeo Arena on the Big first in barrels, ribbon roping and all-around. Thanks to rodeo on TV and elsewhere, Cypress Reservation. For the season, she finished third overall in they know who the professional stars “Most of the kids will move on to high barrels and second in ribbon roping, which are, such as Hailey Kinsel, J.B. Mauney, school rodeo. It’s kind of a stepping stone for earned her spots in those events at nationals. Tuff Cooper and Jackie Crawford, hoping them to move into high school rodeo and then She also qualified in breakaway, which she someday to compete on the big stage as well. a lot of them will move into college rodeo,” finished second overall in the season. She For now, Cyiah Avila, Ashlynn Collins, said Matt Davis, president of FJHSRA. came in second in the all-around category Atley Driggers and Jalee Wilcox are honing The hard work the girls put in on a daily for the season. their horsemanship skills while being middle basis with caring for their horses – and they Although the other three girls didn’t school students. They recently completed have multiple ones – while improving their qualify for South Dakota, Cyiah and Atley their seasons in the Florida Junior High riding skills as well as focusing on their each notched their highest point-totals of School Rodeo Association. academics tie into traits that can be used the season in the finals, and Ashlynn had her Cyiah is Seminole; the others are elsewhere in life. best score of the season in pole bending. descendants. All bring a similar love of “I put my granddaughter in [rodeo] The junior high season has ended horses and competition to arenas throughout because I think it will give her a goal in in Florida, but the girls will continue to Florida. They’ve been riding for as long as life,” said Cynthia Osceola, grandmother of compete in other rodeos, including the they can remember. Cyiah. “It teaches them a lot of patience and Eastern Indian Rodeo Association where In early May, they were at Bergeron responsibility.” Cyiah and Ashlynn are part of royalty. Rodeo Grounds in Davie for the association’s Cyiah attended Ahfachkee School this finals with aspirations of qualifying for the year; Ashlynn, Atley and Jalee are home-

Kevin Johnson Immokalee High School senior Jillian Rodriguez (2) fires up her teammates, including her sister Ava Nunez (3), before facing Mariner in a Class 6A regional quarterfinal on May 8. Sean Osceola, Pasco-Hernando

Softball Player of the Year (the winner had in a regional tournament game. not been announced as of press time for this earn trip to NJCAA World Series Rodriguez, a pitcher and outfielder who issue of the Tribune). is headed to Nashville, Tennessee, to play for Nunez threw a perfect game in the district BY KEVIN JOHNSON Tennessee State, won’t soon be forgotten. semifinals, a 12-0 win against Golden Gate. Senior Editor “She’s a phenomenal softball player, So smooth and quick was Nunez’s outing but even a better person,” said Immokalee that nobody realized her accomplishment coach Ruben Lucio, who coached Rodriguez until after the game. Pasco-Hernando State College needed in her final two softball seasons and one “She just mowed people down that two wins to keep its season alive and Sean soccer season. “She’s just one of those who game,” Lucio said. “I don’t think it occurred Osceola, of the Brighton Reservation, put his is willing to do it all for the team, do the to anyone that she retired 15 batters in team on the right track with a masterpiece. extra work that’s needed.” a row with no one getting on. She’s just a Having come out of the losers’ bracket Rodriguez and the team’s other two phenomenal pitcher.” in the National Junior College Athletic seniors helped turn the program into one of She returned to the circle and fired a Association Southern District tournament, the elite teams in Southwest Florida. three-hit shutout as Immokalee captured its Pasco-Hernando was in a win-or-go-home “You can look at the track record of this first-ever district title with a 4-0 win against situation, needing to beat Brunswick twice. program and where it was and where it’s Lely in the 6A-District 12 championship. Osceola, a freshman right-hander, took come from, and it’s because of players like “She’s always on her game,” Rodriguez care of the first leg. The Okeechobee High her,” Lucio said. “Players that are willing said about her younger sister. “Those past graduate fired a complete game May 13 as to work the extra hours and willing to do two games, she did her thing. She always Pasco-Hernando defeated Brunswick, 5-2, the extra little things that make a program comes in big for us. She’s amazing.” in North Carolina. In nine innings, Osceola successful at the end of the day.” Nunez has three more years left of high allowed seven hits, fanned nine and walked Rodriguez’s high school career has school ball. Immokalee should be strong two. ended, but her sister’s career is just getting again next year. The next day Pasco-Hernando topped warmed up. It didn’t take long for Ava Nunez “We bring back seven starters. There’s Brunswick again, 6-1, to win the district and to establish herself as one of the top pitchers already eighth-graders itching to get up here. earn a bid to the NJCAA Division II World in Southwest Florida. She was named one It’s not stopping,” said Lucio, whose team Series in Enid, Oklahoma. of three finalists for the Naples Daily News finished with an 18-7 record. Pasco-Hernando opened the World Series with an 11-10 win against Lackawanna, of Pennsylvania, on May 25 in Enid, Oklahoma. Osceola started, but lasted only 2.2 innings. He allowed seven runs on five hits, but only four were earned. Pasco-Hernando SWFL Baseball/Twitter committed four errors in the game. Sean Osceola, center, and the Pasco-Hernando State College baseball team are NJCAA World Series- (Editor’s note: The double-elimination bound after winning the Southeast District Championship on May 14 in North Carolina. World Series was still going on as of press time for this issue of the Tribune). Former PECS volleyball standout signs with Florida Southern BY KEVIN JOHNSON Matthews, is a former FSC softball player. Senior Editor “I’m excited. I hope to follow in her footsteps,” Raeley Matthews said. FSC reached the NCAA South Regional Raeley Matthews’ name appears on semifinals in 2018 and finished with a 22-11 the lone undefeated volleyball team banner record. in the Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School Matthews, a 5-foot-11 outside hitter, gymnasium. That ‘unconquered’ 13-0 team signed with FSC earlier this school year on was from the 2014-15 season. a full scholarship. After playing three years Four years later, following a stellar at PECS, she played at Okeechobee High high school career at Okeechobee and Lake her freshman and sophomore seasons before Placid, Matthews’ name will next appear on shifting to Lake Placid High for her junior the roster of the Florida Southern College and senior years. Moccasins volleyball team. Kevin Johnson Kevin Johnson Matthews will be a student-athlete at the Immokalee freshman ace Ava Nunez warms up Jillian Rodriguez gets ready to take a swing in a Lakeland college that competes in NCAA prior to facing Mariner in a regional quarterfinal. regional quarterfinal against Mariner. Division II. Her mom, PECS teacher Pam Raeley Matthews 3C • The Seminole Tribune • May 31, 2019 Esports’ popularity grows within Tribe and beyond

BY DERRICK TIGER money,” Osceola said. “To be honest, I am Staff Reporter still formalizing the legalities.” According to multiple news outlets, esports organizations function as many HOLLYWOOD — Popular video other organizations do. For example, they games Fortnite, Call of Duty, and Super have team owners, contracts, and generate Smash Bros. were the center of attraction sponsorships. An esports organization can for a tournament called “Gamer Palooza” have multiple teams that compete across on March 28 in Hollywood. Tribal members different gaming platforms which brings ages 12 to 24 showcased their gamer skills more revenue. Last year the most valuable in a competitive environment at the Howard esports outfit was reported to be worth $310 Tiger Recreation Center. million. The tournament was divided into two Osceola’s esports team is the early age categories (12-17 and 18-24). The stages but like other professional gamers the gamers played in groups consisting of four team has their own gaming house. A gaming to five players, starting with Super Smash house is basically what it sounds like. It is a Bros and then moving to Fortnite, and Call house that is solely dedicated to gaming. of Duty. “It is a dream to not only have a house, The community event was hosted by but then to have one set up just for gaming, Hollywood Board Rep. Gordon “Ollie” content creation and media is amazing,” Wareham, who, along with Board and Osceola said. Recreation staff, the IT Department and A project Osceola currently has in Brody Osceola, helped organize the progress is putting together an all-Native tournament. American esports team. “Ollie approached me about setting up “First, establishing an all-Native team the tournament format and I immediately is my #1 priority not just for Call of Duty, agreed,” Osceola said. “I’ve been trying to but any esport we enter. I see esports as an do events like this in the Tribe for as long as opportunity to showcase native athletes I can remember. Being able to finally see it unlike other national sports leagues,” come through is really awesome.” Derrick Tiger Osceola said. “I would rather raise money to Osceola, from Naples, has been a Brody Osceola observes the Call of Duty match during Gamer Palooza at the Howard Tiger Recreation Center on March 28. put a jersey on the back of a Native gamer semiprofessional gamer for six years. He than to just sell our jerseys to our native fans. has competed in two major video game We planned on premiering our Native team tournaments and many online tournaments. which stands for “Rose Clan Gaming.” The but Osceola says that they hope to branch out of research on my part and working with in Anaheim this summer; however the team In 2016, Osceola founded an esports main focus of the team has been the first into other video games as well. my financial advisor to determine whether passes sold out immediately and we were (electronic sports) organization called RCG person shooter Call of Duty: Black Ops 4, “Starting the organization took a lot it was a viable investment of my time and unable to secure one.”

Derrick Tiger (2) Above, Gamer Palooza winners in the 18-24 age category join Hollywood Board Rep. Gordon “Ollie” Wareham. At right, Tribal members play a game of Super Smash Bros. Mar. 28 at the Gamer Palooza event.

PECS student-athletes honored with season awards BY TRIBUNE STAFF Softball MVP: Lexi Thomas BRIGHTON — The Pemayetv Seminole Award: Karlyne Urbina Emahakv Charter School handed out its Offensive Player of the Year: Giselle Micco annual sports awards on May 20 for the best- Defensive Player of the Year: Carlee Osceola of-the-best from the 2018-19 academic year. Rookie of the Year: Preslynn Baker Most Improved Player: Neela Jones Girls Basketball MVP: Giselle Micco Boys Basketball Seminole Award: Shylynn Testerman MVP: Bryce Ward Offensive Player of the Year: Preslynn Seminole Award: Pherian Baker Baker Offensive MVP: Charlie Armstrong Defensive Player of the Year: Carlee Osceola Defensive MVP: Aundre Baker Rookie of the Year: Tiyanni Anderson Rookie of the Year: Wyatt Hines Most Improved Player: Willo James Most Improved Player: Jace Brown Girls Volleyball MVP: Giselle Micco Seminole Award: Winnie Gopher Offensive Player of the Year: Lexi Thomas Defensive Player of the Year: Tiyanni Anderson Most Improved Player: Saniya Rodriguez

Boys basketball MVP Bryce Ward Volleyball and girls basketball MVP Giselle Micco Softball MVP Lexi Thomas Men, stay strong

Regular check-ups and preventive health care will keep you strong and healthy for yourself, your family, and your community.

at Medicaid.govSign or up talk for health insurance at healthcare.gov Learn more or call 1-800-318-2596. to your Indian health provider. 4C • The Seminole Tribune •May 31, 2019 Ahfachkee honors its student-athletes Haskell AD addresses fall, winter, spring teams

BY KEVIN JOHNSON Senior Editor

BIG CYPRESS — As the Ahfachkee School’s physical footprint expands on its campus with the addition of a new building, so too is its athletics program. It wasn’t long ago that the small school on the Big Cypress Reservation annually wrestled with inconsistency. Some years it would field sports teams, but not other years, often wavering due to lack of participation and student eligibility struggles. But in the past couple years, stability has become a most valuable player for the program. Coaches are not changing on an annual basis. Students are meeting grade requirements. Teams are competing in FHSAA districts, vying for chances to go to regionals and states. Games are far more competitive. This season’s slate of teams included Kevin Johnson Kevin Johnson (2) cross country and volleyball in the fall, girls Haskell Indian Nations University athletic director and volleyball coach Nana Allison-Brewer talks and boys basketball in the winter, golf and Ahfachkee’s Female Athlete of the Year, Abby Tigertail, left, and Male Athlete of the Year Jeremiah Pickup, right. to Ahfachkee School’s student-athletes during an awards lunch May 6 at the Herman L. Osceola track and field in the spring. Gymnasium in Big Cypress. The student-athletes were honored May 6 with an awards luncheon at the Herman L. with her and she’d get so mad because Osceola Gymnasium. she’d hear all these racial slurs all the time,” “We’re in the infancy stages right now Allison-Brewer said. and we plan to grow quickly,” Principal Farmington is the area where the book Dorothy Cain told the student-athletes. “The Broken Circle” delves into the 1974 Athletics director Matt Beckham said murders of two Navajo men by three high the school plans to add softball next year. school students. Big Cypress Board Rep. Joe Frank, who Allison-Brewer said sports provided her frequently attends games, told the student- an outlet and helped her overcome feeling athletes that he liked what he saw this year. fearful and intimidated. She went on to play “What I saw this year was better volleyball at the University of New Mexico. coordination and teamwork. What I mean She concluded with a message for by coordination is working as a team,” he the Ahfachkee student-athletes which she said. “As you go through life, you’ll see that applies to her own players as well. “Show them what we’re capable of doing. We carry ourselves with pride,” she said.

Ahfachkee School 2018-19 sports award winners

Cross Country

Jeremiah Pickup Up & Coming

Leslie Gopher MVP

Boys Golf Kevin Johnson Dyami Koenes Ahfachkee’s scholar athletes gather for a photo. MVP Leilani Gopher Ayliah Billie Girls Volleyball Abigail Tigertail Rookie of the year Up & Coming Mya Cypress Up & Coming Offensive MVP Aaliyah Billie Thomlynn Billie Lania Bert Most Improved Sportswoman Award Janessa Jones Sportsmanship Defensive MVP Alena Stockton Leilani Gopher Best Server Sportswoman Award

Thomlynn Billie Boys Basketball – Two Offensive Most Inspirational MVPs

Girls Basketball – Two winners for Jeremiah Pickup each award Offensive MVP Kevin Johnson Boys golf MVP Dyami Koenes has plenty of rea- Abigail Tigertail Chanon Frye sons to smile with two trophies. Offensive MVP Offensive MVP

Alena Stockton Dyami Koenes teamwork will be very beneficial to you.” Offensive MVP Defensive MVP The student-athletes also heard from guest speaker Nana Allison-Brewer, who is Carlise Bermudez Damien Fish the athletics director and volleyball coach Defensive MVP Defensive MVP for Haskell Indian Nations University in Kansas. She told the kids that it’s great to Ramona Jimmie Willie Smith have aspirations to play for colleges such as Defensive MVP Up & coming Florida, Florida State and Miami, but to keep in mind there’s also the option of playing for Destiny Cypress Leslie Gopher Haskell. Up & Coming Sportsmanship Award “You guys have lots of Division I schools Kevin Johnson here that are on your televisions that are big Ahfachkee’s volleyball team is honored at the sports lunch. Boys Track & Field and bright, but I also want to remember there’s also an all-Native American school Willie Smith in Lawrence, Kansas. We’ve had several MVP Seminole Tribe of Florida members come play for us,” she said. Jeremiah Pickup Allison-Brewer said Haskell offers two- Up & Coming and-four year degrees, including in sports- related fields that deal with health, fitness and recreation. Athletes of the year and a scholar “We offer a degree so if you want to athlete of the year come back [to your reservation] and run your recreation centers, we can provide you with Male Athlete of the Year the degree to have those skills,” she said. Jeremiah Pickup In the early 1900s, Haskell competed in football against the nation’s elite, such Female Athlete of the Year as Notre Dame, Nebraska and Texas. The Abigail Tigertail school dropped football a few years ago, but plenty of other athletic opportunites are Scholar Athlete of the Year available with teams in men’s and women’s Janessa Jones basketball, cross country, golf, softball and volleyball. Allison-Brewer said the school will add men’s and women’s track in the upcoming academic year. Allison-Brewer (Navajo) also shared her inspirational story about how sports helped her overcome rough, racially-insensitive times while growing up in Farmington, New Mexico. “In my town, when I was a little girl, probably fifth or sixth grade, you couldn’t just go out for a nice jog without someone throwing a can at you saying ‘You ugly Kevin Johnson Indian’ or this and that. Really hurtful. My Ahfachkee’s boys basketball players hold their trophies at the school’s awards lunch. mom was a big runner and I went and jogged 5C • The Seminole Tribune • May 31, 2019 Annual basketball tournament held in MMA Live comes to Hard memory of Lance Cpl. Herman Osceola Rock Event BY TRIBUNE STAFF Center at

BIG CYPRESS — The 34th annual Seminole Hard Herman L. Osceola Memorial Basketball Tournament was held in March at the Rock Hotel & gymnasium that is named in Herman’s honor and memory. The tournament is held each year on Casino or around the anniversary of the death of FROM PRESS RELEASE U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Herman Osceola, who died on March 24, 1984 in a military helicopter crash in South Korea. HOLLYWOOD — Burt Watson Promotions’ inaugural “MMA LIVE” will be Results (team organizers in parenthesis) held June 15 at 7 p.m. at Hard Rock Event Legends Women: Center at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & 1st: Young Legends 1 (Geraldine Casino in Hollywood. The event will feature Osceola) a 12-bout card with local, national and 2nd: Young Legends 2 (Myra Jumper) international standouts. Legends Men: In the “MMA LIVE” main event, 1st: Killer Whales (Jason Billie) Miami’s “Know Way” Jose Caceres (14- 2nd: Legends (Sandy Billie) 8-1, 1 NC), the only man to defeat current Adults Women: UFC welterweight champion Kamaru Usman 1st: Lady Hittaz (Kelcie Jumper) and the brother of UFC star Alex Caceres, 2nd: Wide Open (Hali Garcia) looks to kick off his 2019 campaign with a Adults Men win when he battles Fort Lauderdale’s Fred 1st: Uncivilized Tribe (Byron Billie) “Child of God” Moncaio (6-3) in a three- 2nd: Darkside (Darnell Osceola) round welterweight contest. Moncaio has been on a streak, winning five of his last six Men’s 3-point shooting fights. contest winner: Also featured on the card will be a combat jiu-jitsu match between Vero Beach’s Issiah Billie Igor Feliz and Miami black belt Enrico Cocco. Making his return to action, Miami’s Edwin “The Emperor” Sarria (5-2) looks to get back to business when he meets Dominican Republic’s Wascar “La Avispa” Cruz in a flyweight contest. A fearless competitor on fight night, veteran Gabriel “Stunna” Varona (3-5) makes Kevin Johnson (2) his first start since 2012 when he battles At left, Darlah Cypress soars for a layup during a woman’s division game at the 34th annual Herman L. Osceola Memorial Basketball Tournament in Big fellow Miami lightweight David Gomez (1- Cypress. At right, Herman’s sister, Valdenia Osceola, and mother, Ruby Osceola, show a cake with Herman’s photo on it. Lunch and dinner was provided 2). during the event. In featherweight action, Miami’s Olivier “Warrior of God” Murad (3-0) puts his perfect record on the line against fellow unbeaten Shawn Brown (2-0) of Lantana. Opening up the main card will be a clash of welterweights, as Miami Beach’s Hernan Sosa (4-1) faces West Palm Beach’s, “Bad Guy” Smith Amisial (4-5-1). Tickets for “MMA Live” cost $65, $85 and $205 and are available for purchase at ticketmaster.com.

Native American Hall of Fame induction ceremony to be held at Hard Rock in Tulsa

FROM PRESS RELEASE

GREAT FALLS, Mont. — The National Native American Hall of Fame has announced the 12 individuals who will be Courtesy photo inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2019. They Ruby Osceola presents a check to Issiah Billie Kevin Johnson will be honored at an Induction Ceremony after he won the men’s 3-point contest. Kevin Johnson The plaque that honors Lance Cpl. Herman L. Osceola outside the gym that bears his name. on Nov. 2 at the Hard Rock Hotel and Nate Lane (24) wins a tip at the start of a game. Casino in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The ceremony will celebrate these 12 individuals, their accomplishments, and what they have meant to Indigenous peoples across the globe. The 12 inductees are: Lucy Covington (d. 1982), Colville; Ada Deer, Menominee; Louise Erdrich, Turtle Mountain Chippewa; Billy Frank Jr. (d. 2014), Nisqually; Forrest Gerard (d. 2013), Blackfeet; Hattie Kauffman, Nez Perce; Oren Lyons, Onondaga; Richard Oakes (d. 1972), Mohawk; Elizabeth Peratrovich (d. 1958), Tlingit; Pascal Poolaw (d. 1967), Kiowa; Mary Golda Ross (d. 2008), Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma; Wes Studi, Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma. “Our board of directors and I believe that the 12 Native Americans who will be Courtesy photo Courtesy photo enshrined in the National Native American Mens’ champion Uncivilized Tribe Women’s champion Lady Hittaz Hall of Fame are stellar examples of the individuals and level of accomplishment that our organization will be honoring this year, and in the future,” said James Parker Shield, Little Shell Chippewa, chief executive officer and founder of the National Native American Hall of Fame. “Our organization’s mission is to recognize and honor the inspirational achievements of Native Americans in contemporary history,” said Shield. “We join with all of our relatives across Indian country — and all Americans throughout the United States — in welcoming these exemplary individuals, some who have passed on to the spirit world, to the National Native American Hall of Fame.” To nominate other Native Americans in the future, the National Native American Hall of Fame is working on a nomination form that will be on the website (www.nativehalloffame. org). Until the form is online, send emails to: [email protected] with the name, short biography, and a digital photo of the individual being nominated as well as your contact information. For more information about the 2019 Induction Ceremony and to become a sponsor, contact Chief Development Officer Courtesy photo T.J. Hansell, Turtle Mountain Chippewa at Kevin Johnson [email protected] or (602) 885-4454. Teams battle in the paint during a women’s division game. Women’s runner-up Lady Seminoles 6C • The Seminole Tribune • May 31, 2019 Elba Ramalho to perform at Seminole Casino Coconut Happy Birthday! Lacrosse MVP Creek

FROM PRESS RELEASE

COCONUT CREEK — The Brazilian performer Elba Ramalho will take the stage in The Pavilion at Seminole Casino Coconut Creek on July 13 at 8 p.m. Tickets priced at $25/$30/$35 per person are on sale now via Ticketmaster locations, online at Ticketmaster.com, or by calling 800-653-8000. The Pavilion box office will also open at 1 p.m. on the day of the show for on-site ticket purchases and will-call pickup. Ramalho, who is also a poet and actress, has won two “Latin Grammys” and 16 Awards of Brazilian Music. In addition to her successful solo career, Ramalho has collaborated with a number of well-established Brazilian acts over the years including Alceu Valença and her first cousin, Zé Ramalho. Ramalho, who hails from the Brazilian state of Paraíba, has performed at such major international venues as the Olympia in Paris, the Blue Note in New York, the Brixton Academy in London and at the Montreaux Festival in Switzerland. Her shows bring together an eclectic audience of all ages as she is constantly playing at jazz, rock and forró festivals as well as business meetings and major events.

Gatlin Brothers Contributed photo Congratulations on receiving MVP Offense for 8U Davie Lacrosse. to hold holiday Great job, Haash! You’re awesome! We are so proud of you! We concert in love you and you’re always our MVP! Immokalee Mom, Gamy, and Logan FROM PRESS RELEASE Happy Birthday! IMMOKALEE — Jay Goldberg Events and Entertainment will present country music legends The Gatlin Brothers in concert at Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee on Dec. My dear princess Jazzlynn Leann, 19 at 8 p.m. with doors opening at 7 p.m. mommy wants to say how blessed I truly Advance tickets are on sale now for $69 and am on this day 5/20 my third princess was are available by phone at 1-800-514-ETIX born. Mommy loves you so much and is so or online at www.moreinparadise.com or proud of you, how hard you try at school www.jaytv.com/florida. Concert attendees and you don’t give up. Your my lil bubble must be 21 years of age or older. gum, Problem Child “Nyny,” mommy will The Gatlin Brothers will perform all always be here to the end, princess, and I their hits as well as favorite Christmas and hope you enjoy your special day and may holiday songs during this country Christmas all your little wishes come true. concert. Larry, Steve and Rudy, the Gatlin We love you, Mommy, Teddy, Mariyah, Brothers, are a Grammy Award-winning Aaliyah, Jazzlynn, Baby j.; Grandmothers: trio who have dazzled audiences for more Belen, Guadalupe, Barbara, Nancy, Claudia; than 60 years with a lifetime of notable Grandfathers: Alfredo, Felix, Encarnacion, achievements including: a Grammy for Best Joe; Uncles: Joe, Alfredo Jr., Daniel; Aunts: Country Song (“Broken Lady”), three ACM Lillie, Alicia Nina, Brenda, Lory, Samantha, awards for Single of the Year (“All The Gold Lez, and all your cuzins. Family: Martinez/ in California”), Album of the Year (“Straight Alvarado/Garza/Faz Ahead”), and Male Vocalist of the Year for Larry Gatlin, along with five nominations for CMA Vocal Group of the year, Single, Album and Male Vocalist of the Year.

Seminole Everglades City to host Classic Casino Independence Day FOR SALE LAST SIX OF MILEAGE/ STARTING BID guest wins celebration June 29 VIN# YEAR MAKE MODEL HRS CONDITION PRICE B17252 2006 FORD SUV EXPLORER XLT (RWD) 173,688 Poor $1,050.00

262181 2010 FORD SEDAN FUSION SEL (FWD) 140,717 Fair $1,856.00 $177,258 FROM PRESS RELEASE prizes for the best entries which 167543 2006 CHEVROLET SUV TAHOE LT (RWD) 152,890 Fair $3,720.00 may be anything from golf FROM PRESS RELEASE 522443 2006 CHEVROLET STARCRAFT C5500 BUS (RWD) 34,887 Poor $4,462.00 EVERGLADES CITY carts to swamp buggies. And, — Historic Everglades City new this year, there is a prize B3605 2010 FORD SUV EXPEDITION - EDDIE BAUER (RWD) 154,423 Fair $4,975.00 HOLLYWOOD — A Seminole will celebrate Independence for the best hat. The celebration Classic Casino guest (who wished to remain Day with its annual free family continues in McLeod Park anonymous) hit a $177,258 jackpot on festival on June 29. when booths open at 11 a.m. April 14. The guest had bet $100 on AGS’ An opening ceremony featuring hot dogs, sodas, a bake sale, face painting, arts Note - Previously advertised items are not reflected on this advertisement, only new listings. For more information contact Fixed Assets Dept. 954-966-6300 ext. Diamond Lotto progressive machine before will be held at 10 a.m. on the 20034. steps of City Hall (the former and crafts vendors, raffles, the resulting jackpot. The progressive NEW!! - Tribal Members only- access this information at the website: http://semtribe.com/FixedAssets. (Registration required) jackpot was subsequently reset to $100,000. County courthouse) followed kiddies’ best dressed contest, The recently renovated landmark casino at 10:30 a.m. by a patriotic and playground games. is now home to more than 1,000 state-of- parade around the little city. The event will conclude the-art, newest-title slot machines and other The theme this year is “Hats with a fireworks show at 9 p.m. local favorites such as Diamond Lotto, Fort Off to America” and there are Knox and Pirate’s Loot.

Country singer Martina McBride to perform Theodore Nelson Sr. at Seminole Casino Coconut Creek Licensed Clinical Social Worker, SW5813, Indian Child Welfare Consultant-Expert, Board Member National Indian Child Welfare Association, Licensed and Insured, Seminole Health Plan Provider FROM PRESS RELEASE has produced a number of hits COCONUT CREEK — during her career, Are you unhappy with your current counseling/child welfare services? Country singer Martina McBride including “This will perform in The Pavilion at One’s for the Now there are alternative services for you and your family. Philosophically, Seminole Casino Coconut Creek on Girls,” “Where June 29 at 8 p.m. Would You Be,” we all have difficulty balancing social life, culture, health, substance use/ Tickets priced at $40/$50/$60 “Wild Angels” per person are on sale now via (her first number- abuse, self-esteem, sense of belonging, emotions, our hopes and dreams. Ticketmaster locations, online at one hit), “I’m Ticketmaster.com, or by calling Gonna Love You 800-653-8000. The Pavilion box Through It,” and office will also open at 1 p.m. on the “Independence I offer 20 years of professional experience as a qualified therapist working day of the show for on-site ticket Day” (which purchases and will-call pickup. won two with children, teens and adults in a confidential, private setting in your McBride has sold over 18 Country Music million albums and won the Country Association home or my office. I am available for individual counseling, dependency/ Music Association “Female Vocalist awards and a of the Year” award four times as Grammy for Best Courtesy photo custody cases and tribal court; services are available for all reservations. well as the Academy of Country Country Song). Martina McBride Music “Top Female Vocalist” award Known for her soprano recorded a total of 13 studio albums. three times. She is also a 14-time Office: (754) 215-3113 6528 Osceola Circle, Hollywood, Florida 33024 Grammy Award nominee. singing range, McBride released her A Kansas native, McBride debut album in 1992 and has since