Native American Wyatt Youngman Ahfachkee girls full of murals in Miami leads FSC fraternity energy, victories COMMUNITY v 3A EDUCATION v 1B SPORTS v 1C

www.seminoletribune.org Free Volume XLIV • Number 1 January 31, 2020 Kastelic says 20th annual Rez Rally - a healthy start to challenges to ICWA aren’t new decade for hundreds of runners, walkers

about protecting BY BEVERLY BIDNEY children Staff Reporter BIG CYPRESS — More than 650 BY DAMON SCOTT people came from every reservation and Staff Reporter every generation, from elders to infants, to compete and connect at the 20th annual Rez Rally on Jan. 11 in Big Cypress. Those who have monitored ongoing The breezy, cool weather at the platinum challenges to the Indian Child Welfare Act edition of Rez Rally couldn’t have been say the past 15 months have been more better. The theme, “Seminole Strong,” was alarming than usual. taken literally as the invigorated participants A Jan. 22 hearing by the U.S. Court of ran, walked or were wheeled through the Appeals for the Fifth Circuit in New Orleans 3-mile or 1-mile course. didn’t do much to quell what is seen as “I do it for my health,” said President the underlying issue: a continued and, of Mitchell Cypress, who has walked in late, ramped up assault on inherent tribal every Rez Rally. “I have diabetes and the sovereignty. medication helps, but you have to exercise It’s not known when the court will issue and help yourself as well.” a decision based on the latest hearing. None Sponsored by the Integrative Health had been issued by press time. program, Rez Rally promotes healthy Sarah L. Kastelic (Alutiiq) is in the thick lifestyle choices such as nutrition and of the fight. She is the executive director of the exercise. An additional purpose of the National Indian Child Welfare Association popular event is to encourage people to (NICWA) – a position she’s held since 2015. remain active, have some fun and enjoy the The group is hosting its 38th annual camaraderie of the day. Beverly Bidney “Protecting Our Children” conference March “The ultimate goal is to create a 29 to April 1 in Denver. Kastelic is expecting community of health with everybody Kaleb Thomas leads the pack at the start of the 20th annual Rez Rally in Big Cypress on Jan. 11. 1,600 to attend. The Seminole Tribe of working together towards wellness,” said Florida is a sponsor. Suzanne Davis, Integrative Health program led by the fitness department. “The years pass so quickly,” Rep. Buster a chance to see. “The whole organization was founded on manager. “It is a way for people to come “We all enjoy getting together at these said. “Diabetes is our biggest problem, “The family reunion of Rez Rally is the the heels on ICWA’s passage,” Kastelic said. together to support each other and build events,” said Chairman Marcellus W. besides drugs and alcoholism. We all need to best part,” Osceola said. “It’s the biggest “Tribal leaders were excited their authority relationships to go forward on their wellness Osceola Jr. “Even though we are in teams take care of ourselves to maintain our lives. get together we have and it’s great to see was being recognized.” journey.” of our reservations, remember we are all Start working on your nutrition and exercise, everyone from different reservations. It’s But that authority is in increasing Before the race began, the crowd Seminole Tribal members. Do your best which helps control type 2 diabetes.” really hard to get together like this.” jeopardy. gathered in the Junior Cypress Rodeo Arena every day of your life from here on out.” For all its health benefits, Rez Rally is Sisters Marissa and Angelina Osceola, Kastelic’s organization works on a to hear from Tribal leaders and to get their Brighton Board Rep. Helene Buster has also a time for socializing. Steve Osceola of Naples, have been running together for a variety of issues to stabilize ICWA’s standing. blood moving with some warm-up exercises been involved with Rez Rally since it began has participated in about 70 percent of the She and her staff train social workers and in 2000. events and loves seeing people he rarely gets F See REZ RALLY on page 4A develop curriculum. NICWA’s clients are tribal members and tribal affairs workers, administrators and other leaders and those who work in related areas like substance Annual Seminole Tribal Fair and abuse and health. The “Protect ICWA Campaign” consists of NICWA, the Native American Rights Fund, National Congress of American Indians and Pow Wow set to kick off in Hollywood the Association on American Indian Affairs. All four work in tandem to engage BY BEVERLY BIDNEY Ballroom. Special guests include Cowboy Indian Country and its allies on the threat to Staff Reporter Troy and DJ Sinister. the almost 41-year-old law and direct them Other entertainment on tap includes toward actions they can take. a freestyle alligator wrestling competition After months of uncertainty, it looked HOLLYWOOD — The Seminole Tribal Fair and Pow Wow will fill the Hard Feb. 8 and 9 as well as wildlife shows. as if an immediate threat to the law would The Native Reel Cinema Festival will ease a bit after an August 2019 decision by Rock Hollywood Feb. 7-9 with colorful regalia and the sound of beating drums as be held Feb. 7 and 8 and will include the a three-judge panel on the aforementioned 30th anniversary screening of “Powwow Fifth Circuit in New Orleans. hundreds of dancers and drummers compete for more than $150,000 in prize money. Highway,” and a Short Film Festival. That summer ruling nullified a previous Celebrities scheduled to appear include Gary decision in Oct. 2018 by District Court Judge Billed as the 49th annual Celebration of Native Arts and Culture, each day will begin Farmer, Keith Secola, Martin Sensmeier, Reed O’Connor of the Northern District of Eugene Brave Rock, Maddona Thunder Texas (first Brackeen v. Zinke now Brackeen with grand entries (Feb. 7 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. and Feb. 8 at noon and 7 p.m.) During Hawk, Marcella Gilbert, Elizabeth Castle, v. Bernhardt) that ICWA was unconstitutional Adrian Stevens and Sean Snyder. because it was “race based and violates the grand entry the Seminole and Lakota Women Warriors color guards, dignitaries, Hosted by actor and stuntman Eugene the equal protection clause of the U.S. Brave Rock, the screening of “Powwow Constitution.” royalty, celebrities and dancers take the floor and fill every inch as they dance around in an Highway” will be Feb. 7 at 8 p.m. and will “The way he made that decision was feature a question and answer period with kind of sketchy,” Kastelic said. “He didn’t do ever tighter circle. Competitive dance events will feature its star Farmer, who will also join Secola the legal analysis we would expect.” for a musical performance. Fans will have A hearing the following March in New men’s straight, fancy and grass, women’s cloth, fancy shawl, buckskin and jingle and a chance to take photos with their favorite Orleans appealing O’Connor’s decision celebrities as well. naturally made Kastelic and others nervous. men’s and women’s northern traditional. The drum competition will include northern and The Short Film Festival will be Feb. Would it be upheld or overturned? 8 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Films include “But we had some good signals. The southern categories. The event will also offer enough “Fast Horse,” “Legacy,” “ALLAPATAH,” Eugene Brave Heart/Facebook (above); file photo (right) judges asked really smart questions; then we “Sweetheart Dancers” and “Warrior Above, actor and stuntman Eugene Brave Heart got a wonderful decision that basically threw traditional Seminole patchwork, beadwork, baskets and crafts, along with items from Women.” There will also be a question and is scheduled to be among the celebrities at the out all of the claims the opposition made,” answer session with Thunder Hawk and Native Reel Cinema Festival during the Seminole Kastelic said. other Native American tribes, to keep any shopper busy. Gilbert of “Warrior Women” and Stevens Tribal Fair and Pow Wow. At right, a dancer However, immediately after it was and Snyder of “Sweetheart Dancers.” performs at last year’s pow wow. overturned the Brakeens and several other Country music stars Big & Rich are scheduled to be the headliners with a free For more information visit families, including the attorneys general of semtribefairandpowwow.com/. Texas, Indiana and Louisiana, requested an concert Feb. 9 at 3 p.m. in the Seminole

F See ICWA on page 9A Ahfachkee murals preserved through laser scanning BY BEVERLY BIDNEY Working with the University of South Staff Reporter Florida, the Tribal Historic Preservation Office spent Jan. 27 and 28 using a state- BIG CYPRESS — In 1993 and 1994, of-the-art laser scanner and photography to Seminole artist Mary Gay Osceola used her document the artwork and create digital three talent and experience to paint 13 murals dimensional visualizations of the murals, on the walls of the Ahfachkee School in which adorned the school’s hallways, library Big Cypress. Those murals, which depict and cafeteria. Seminole life and legends, have been “Laser scanning is an up and coming preserved for posterity despite the imminent preservation technology,” said Lacee Cofer, demolition of the building, which was built THPO chief data analyst. “It’s gaining more in 1991. ground and is becoming more popular. We “We wanted to save the images so are pretty excited about it.” we have a memory of the building,” said USF lab director and archeologist Laura Principal Dorothy Cain. “The murals are F See AHFACHKEE on page 2B important to the community. We would like to use them in the new building in some way. NICWA We want to be able to have some of the old Beverly Bidney National Indian Child Welfare Association in the new building.” The large mural of a Seminole village by Executive Director Sarah L. Kastelic speaks at Details of the new elementary school Mary Gay Osceola was the showpiece of the the 2019 National Congress of American Indians building have not been announced, but the Ahfachkee School cafeteria. conference. project is currently in the design phase.

Editorial...... 2A Health...... 9A Sports...... 1C. @SeminoleTribune @SeminoleTribune INSIDE: Community...... 3A Education...... 1B 2A • The Seminole Tribune • January 31, 2020 Editorial Being a female Native reporter in Washington • Jourdan Bennett-Begaye believe deep down that I belong. It’s even better than regular oversight my homelands, worthwhile. Knowing that media, asked about the pipeline. My follow- I have to show that even within the hearings because congressional members do you’re not alone and there are others fighting up question went to a Latino guy who wanted marble walls of these congressional buildings not ask stereotypical Indian questions ... but a similar fight: fighting for Indian Country. to ask about Mexico’s trade deal. (where maybe 7 out of 10 faces I pass in the that’s another column. Of course, you learn to navigate colonial It all worked out in the end. halls are white) that I belong. I was reminded of these experiences as a spaces over time, speak up, and say enough Later I found out the guy who helped ometimes I walk on Capitol Hill I faintly recall my first time walking Native journalist in Washington this morning is enough. was Canadian. He had been working for Sbeing judged, questioned, and in Rayburn. Very little windows, of course. at an oversight hearing. The hearing was for I walk taller and with more confidence Bloomberg for a month. We talked in the flagged. Few signs. I found the restroom after I’d “hard-to-count” areas of the Census. now than I did in August of 2018 when I elevator about how Canada is pretty well Capitol Hill is a place where I attend been walking forever. Here is what happened today: typically started at Indian Country Today. aware of Indigenous affairs — at least hearings, interview representatives and White faces, white walls, white floors. there is a press table in these hearing rooms I continue to prepare more for stories better than the U.S. for that matter. (Let’s be senators, and report stories frequently. This And everyone is dressed to fit in: suit, dress where journalists can take out their laptops happening on the Hill. And overall, I feel like honest, there’s improvement to be made on morning I realized how difficult it was and shirt, tie, shined shoes, pencil skirt, a nice and write. Today when I pulled out a chair I do have thicker skin and continue to learn both sides.) still is to navigate Capitol Hill as a female necklace, heels. Even Native people dress at the end of the press table in Rayburn, to embrace the stings of colonialism on the I thanked him, and we went our separate Native journalist. Particularly because of the part. (You can tell when someone is a one white female journalist shot up a look. Hill and in the surrounding brick buildings. ways. my “stereotypical” Native look: brown skin, “D.C. Native.” Ha. I didn’t know it was a I instantly felt she didn’t want me there … I also want to point out that allies make Another woman that day befriend me long-dark hair, and high cheekbones. thing until a few months ago … but it is.) so I sat at the end of the row in the audience. a difference. In particular, one ally has made in the West Wing of the White House. She I walked into the Rayburn House Office The formality, whiteness, and colonial (There were better photo opportunities in a difference in my experience here. shared her ways of moving through and Building, one of the handful of congressional architecture were so odd to me. I felt out of this seat anyways.) Last June, I was covering Prime surviving in the West Wing. She said to me buildings on Capitol Hill, off Independence place. After this, I attached my phone adapter Minister Justin Trudeau’s visit to the White make sure I bring my own snacks, water, and Avenue. It is across the street from the Now almost a year and half of reporting to my tripod to get a few video clips of House and the Canadian Embassy. Keurig pods. Capitol. in Washington, there are only a few places Rep. Deb Haaland, D-New Mexico, in the Prime Minister Trudeau’s public Washington can make a Native journalist As I walked up to the glass doors, I feel comfortable with my identity. The front row. A white woman came to me and relations specialist at the embassy told the feel small and unimportant. That’s why my mind ran through how I was going to one place I feel at home on Capitol Hill is whispered they typically don’t allow people media that only seven questions would be probably why people constantly describe it get through security smoothly with my in Dirksen 628, the room where the Senate to film because the hearing is being recorded. allowed, along with one follow-up question. as a “transient city.” It eats and spits you out. belongings: putting my phone in my tote, Committee on Indian Affairs holds their I told her I’m not recording the entire Six questions went to Canadian media and Natives I saw a year ago aren’t here now. making sure my jacket pockets were empty, business meetings and oversight hearings. hearing. I just needed a few video clips and only one question went to international But then I look down at my beaded and thinking how to fit my tumbler of hot tea Before I even enter the room, I spot some photos. She said okay and walked off. media, which meant the U.S. (I tried to tell lanyard while holding my press pass and into my tote. Native people walking toward it. Sometimes Approximately 20 minutes later after them that Indigneous media doesn’t count. look at my turquoise ring. I reaffirm myself I grabbed my stuff and recited in my we even ride the elevator together and chit I put my tripod away, she pulled up a chair The public relations specialist sort of laughed to take it day by day. As a colleague, who head, “Room 2164. Room 2164. Room chat. (the same chair I almost sat in at the press but it didn’t convince him.) was inspired by James Baldwin, told me, 2164.” My mind scrambled for the floor and I feel at ease in this room where woven table) to sit right next to me. I thought This Canadian press person told U.S. “Your crown has been bought and paid for. I had to decide within a few seconds how to rugs and paintings hang on the wall and this was odd and a little microaggressive, media that we had to collectively decide All you have to do is put it on your head.” find Room 2164 without showing hesitation there’s a Native person sitting in every other especially because there were plenty of seats what one question and one follow-up we I deserve to walk into these marble on my face. seat and behind congressional members. I in the audience. There were even a couple of wanted to ask. In this group of six men, I was buildings knowing I have important Mind you, through the entire process I see familiar faces from receptions, meetings, seats on the other side of me, too. the only woman. They wanted to ask a trade questions to ask. And as a female Native am reminding myself to be confident and act previous stories, or emails. Sometimes I kept working and tried to brush it off. I question and I wanted to ask about the recent journalist, I deserve to sit at the press table like I belong here. Usually, my preparation witnesses providing testimony are dressed in had a job to do. And you’re supposed to have expansion of the Trans Mountain Pipeline. feeling and knowing that I belong. to report from Capitol Hill starts the night their regalia or traditional clothing. thick skin in Washington, right? The guys seemed like they didn’t want to Yaadilah, Washington! before. As us millennials say, “I’m my own It feels like home away from home. That I also reminded myself I belong in this compromise, but one gentleman could and Jourdan Bennett-Begaye, Diné, is the hype woman.” room is a space that can easily be navigated space — along with the three other Native tried. Washington editor for Indian Country Today Why do I have to hype myself up? by a Native journalist. I’m not judged, I’m people (who I saw) in the room. We spoke and worked with the Canadian based in Washington, D.C. Follow her on Because as a female Native journalist not questioned, and I’m not flagged. That’s what makes the job a bit easier media on their questions that would answer Twitter: @jourdanbb. Email: jbennett- reporting on Capitol Hill, I have to show and and it makes being in D.C., a place far from everyone’s concerns, and I, as Indigenous [email protected]. Acting Native and surviving Curing the problems that

• Doug George-Kanentiio for the fate of that nation is the refusal of Prime Minister seem incurable Scott Morrison to acknowledge this cause and effect relationship and turn the country away from coal. So far attack this deadly problem from no difference to the white judges the fires have burned over 20,000,000 acres (close to the the ground up. There is no other and juries who consider the only n 2016 I wrote a column about the situation at size of Maine) and caused the death of 23 people and • Tim Giagio solution. The consumption of solution is more prison time. If IStanding Rock and the ecological harm coming hundreds of millions of animals and trees. The scars of alcohol and the use of drugs is a this sounds racist so be it, but it about through the use of fossil fuels. I cited an Iroquois this historic blaze will endure for generations, a bitter disease and it must be attacked is the truth. In all of my years as prophecy about the coming of a time when human beings reminder of the consequences of an exploitative, anti- re things any better as a disease. Locking Native a newspaper editor I have seen would disturb the earth by extracting things deep within nature culture and economy. Afor Native Americans Americans up in jails and prisons the unfair and racist approach in her. Long ago there were species of plants and animals of For those who ask what is to be done, the traditional addicted to drugs and alcohol in does not cure the problem, but our court system. An action that great size. The animals are described as lizard like brings leaders of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy along wth the 2020 than they were in 2010? I may even contribute to it. One would get a white suspect a mere and the plants similar to today’s tobacco and ferns. These Hopi, Anishnabe and others have not only tried to warn often write that the more things does not cure a disease by locking slap on the wrist gets too many species became extinct and were covered by the earth. the nations of the world about their actions but provided change in Indian Country the up a sick person. One cures a Natives time behind bars and There were specific warnings against disturbing them and, instruction as to another way of living and thinking more they stay the same. disease by going to the roots of the what is worse one can find Natives if this was done, there would be terrible consequences. based upon the ancestral customs and technologies of For example ninety-five problems and finding a cure. sitting in jails across South Dakota Skaniateriio (Handsome Lake) was a Seneca prophet the planet’s indigenous peoples. It is no mere accident percent of the more than 20,000 There have been many good for much longer sentences than active from the years 1799-1815. He had visions given to that prior to the arrival of the first European colonists in Native Americans living off the Lakota who saw this problem as whites charged with the same him by spirit beings who taught him the way by which Australia in 1788 the Native people there had developed reservation in Rapid City are a disease and attempted to cure crime. This is not a theory, it is a the Iroquois could survive the intrusions and disruptions and sustained a way of life stable for tens of thousands of hard-working and law abiding it; people like Melvin “Dickie” fact. brought about by the settlers from the east. Along with a years, one in which the needs of human beings were at an citizens. It deeply wounds all of us Brewer and Glen Three Stars I could write an entire strong moral code he also told the people events which absolute balance with the rights of other species. when we see our fellow Lakota’s fought it with all of their might as chapter on the historic trauma would occur far beyond his time. These can be read, in The challenge for Australia, if it is to survive as a getting caught up in deadly car counselors, but they could never that has brought so many Native part, in the book “Parker on the Iroquois” as edited by the nation, is to put aside generations of brutal racism and wrecks while under the influence secure the adequate funding to Americans to the point where anthropologist William Fenton and published by Syracuse research how the original people were able to avoid of alcohol because it is a reflection give it the all-out effort needed drugs and alcohol seems to be University Press. It is remarkable reading. ecological catastrophes by making use of innovate upon all of us and we know that to kill the disease. They only got their only respite. I am sure that Supplementing Handsome Lake’s visions are the technologies and philosophies in harmony with the earth. the average white citizen of Rapid crumbs to fight it with and you Native American judges and juries oral teachings which enhance what he saw as the fate It begins with a commitment to refrain from any City thinks that most of us are can’t cure an ingrained disease would better understand these of this planet should humans expose that which was activity which breached the rights of the natural world. It druggies and alcoholics. Innocent with crumbs. underlying problems and treat buried beneath. Using the remains of those plants, and carries on to the enactment of constitutional amendments children are often the victims in And so once more we turn them accordingly. But there are no particularly the great lizards, would cause tears in the to acknowledge that earth has legal standing in the courts these accidents. to the Indian Health Service and Native judges in our South Dakota veil which covers the planet and this would in turn heat and assemblies of humans. It grows to embrace the legal But it seems to us that these to our elected representatives to court system (except on the Indian the oceans. This energy would then come in the form of concept of the rights of those yet unborn, which mandates terrible happenings are occurring please, please send your experts reservations) and Natives are powerful and destructive winds. the seventh generation into the future has a right to clean with much more frequency. out to Indian Country and give seldom chosen to sit in a jury box. That warning was interpreted as the Black Serpent, air, clean water, fertile lands and liberation from the Indians are involved in street them the tools to cure the disease They say you can’t cure a or Snake. It would make its way across continents as it artificial constraints of economic and social classes or fights, stabbings, and deadly (alcoholism and drug addiction) problem by throwing more money devoured the land and people. The people gathered at gender identification. It means empowering leaders who domestic violence that reflect that are the number one destroyers at it, but the disease caused by Standing Rock took this and it became one of the symbols are prepared to enact and enforce legislation which gives poorly upon all of the Lakota of Native Americans. With a drugs and alcohol in Indian of those opposed to the imposition of an oil pipeline a voice to the natural world. people residing in the border massive effort, the job can be Country has had little money through sacred Dakota territory. That fossil fuel was to What is taking place in Australia was endured by towns and cities of this state. accomplished. thrown at it because if this had be exported to Asia, a region already facing ecological California just last year. It will be repeated in other areas The number one contributor We are sick and tired of seeing been the case, perhaps we would collapse. of the US and Canada then across the globe if the earth is to nearly all of these gruesome the lives of our friends and family have found a cure by now. In Australia, that semi-arid land where the sun shines further exploited. The serpent now choking off Australia and deadly events is alcohol members demolished because of a most of the year, the Black Serpent has come to rest. That will become commonplace until the people rise up and and drugs. It all comes down to curable disease. And the criminal Tim Giago, an Oglala Lakota nation, despite the potential of alternative energy sources demand radical changes in governance, spirituality and the point that it is the individual actions of those Natives addicted born, raised and educated on the such as solar and wind, refuses to mandate the use of this economics. Native American who must to these substances that cause Pine Ridge Reservation and is the clean energy. It generates 85% of its electrical needs from Do nothing and burn. Act Native and survive. take the responsibility of not the disease are the main reason founder of the Native American its massive coal deposits. Not content to contaminate the consuming alcohol or using drugs. that more than 35 percent of Journalists Association. He was air, and further rip apart the earth’s ozone, Australia has Doug George-Kanentiio, Akwesasne Mohawk, is the For years my newspapers have those incarcerated in our jails and a Nieman Fellow at Harvard become the world’s largest exporter of dirty coal, shipping vice-president of the Hiawatha Institute for Indigenous been editorializing that a massive prisons are Native Americans. with the Class of 1991. He can be over 475,000,000 tons to other Asian nations particularly Knowledge. He has served as a Trustee for the National influx of money must be available Even though many of those reached at najournalist1@gmail. China which is suffocating from filthy air caused by fossil Museum of the American Indian, is a former land claims to the health providers to create a charged with DUI’s hold jobs and com. This editorial appeared on fuel burning industrial plants. negotiator for the Mohawk Nation and is the author of cadre of trained professionals to are supporting a family it makes Indianz.com. That is an annual export level which cannot be numerous books and articles about the Mohawk people. sustained without further harmful consequences to He may be reached via e-mail at: [email protected] humans and other life forms. It should come as no or by calling 315-415-7288. This editorial appeared on surprise that the prolonged drought in Australia is directly Indianz.com. related to the burning of fossil fuels but what is alarming

The Seminole Tribune The following deadlines apply to all Advertising: Senior Editor: Kevin Johnson, ext. 10715 © 2020 Seminole Tribe of Florida is a member of the submissions to The Seminole Tribune: Advertising rates along with sizes and other [email protected] Native American Journalists Association. information may be downloaded online at: Issue: February 28, 2020 http://SeminoleTribune.org/Advertise Digital Content Coordinator: Letters/emails to the editor must be signed Deadline: February 12, 2020 Analicia Austin, ext. 10739 and may be edited for publication. Postmaster: [email protected] Issue: March 31, 2020 Please send address changes to: Subscription rate is $35 per year by mail. Deadline: March 18, 2020 The Seminole Tribune Staff Reporter: Beverly Bidney, ext. 16466 Make checks payable to: 3560 N. State Road 7 [email protected] The Seminole Tribune Issue: April 30, 2020 Hollywood, FL 33021 3560 N. State Road 7 Deadline: April 15, 2020 Staff Reporter: Damon Scott, ext. 10704 Hollywood, FL 33021 Publisher: The Seminole Tribe of Florida [email protected] Phone: 954-985-5700 Fax: 954-965-2937 Phone: 954-985-5700 Advertising: Donna Mason, ext. 10733 [email protected] 3A • The Seminole Tribune • January 31, 2020 Community A Wynwood murals depict Seminole teen, Miccosukee elders

BY DAMON SCOTT outdoor museum – at 2520 NW 2nd Ave. – Staff Reporter or walk to the east end of the Wynwood 25 development, located at 240 NW 25th St. MIAMI — Two very different murals Meanwhile, artist Bunky Echo Hawk are on display in the Wynwood district of (Pawnee) completed “Miccosukee Heroes” Miami, but both have an association to late last November, just in time for the Florida’s two Tribes. crowds of Miami’s Art Basel. An eight-story high mural of teenage The Miccosukee Tribe commissioned Seminole Kyle James Grant is on the the multiwall mural last summer. It is thought northeast side of the Wynwood 25 apartment to be the first official public art the Tribe has building in the heart of the trendy arts district. done outside of their reservation. When the Tribune previously reported One wall features a Native American in on the mural last fall, it hadn’t yet been an oversized gas mask preparing for battle completed by internationally renowned Los with an alligator. The two are facing off on a Angeles-based artist Miles MacGregor, also toxic waterway, with the heading: “UnSeen,” known as “El Mac.” but with a line striking through the “Un.” Completed last December, it depicts Writing from the artist on part of Grant and two other youths. Grant is holding another wall and retractable door reads: “The an orange rose and there is a ring of orange Everglades isn’t just our passion. It’s our Damon Scott roses around his head. He is wearing a home. And more needs to be done to protect The mural is one of many in the busy Wynwood district in Miami – a draw for tourists. traditional Seminole shirt. it.” Grant’s father is James Grant and his The main wall features two elders. The grandmother is Rosie Grant – all are from female elder has thought bubbles leading to the Hollywood Reservation. text that reads: “Native American history The connection to MacGregor began is American history,” and the male elder’s after a conversation James Grant had with thought bubbles lead to “We are Miccosukee. his cousin, Thomas “Breeze” Marcus, who is #originallocals.” a colleague of the artist. The mural is located on a warehouse To see the mural, walk south from the building at 2600 N. Miami Ave. It is expected main entrance of the popular Wynwood Walls to remain up for about a year.

Damon Scott Damon Scott Bunky Echo Hawk signed the mural and directed Damon Scott The wall, at left, depicts a Native American man in a standoff with an alligator. visitors to the Miccosukee website. The artist depicted two Miccosukee elders on the main wall of the mural.

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Please feel free to visit our website at: Floridacriminaldefensepro.com 4A • The Seminole Tribune • January 31, 2020 Billie and four grandchildren. Together wrote specifically for the 20th Rez Rally F REZ RALLY they crossed the finish line well ahead of and named it after the theme of the day, Rally founders look back at 20 years From page 1A Gopher’s husband, John Billie Jr. “Seminole Strong.” “He didn’t keep up,” said Gopher, of the Connie Whidden, Edna McDuffie BY BEVERLY BIDNEY people in shape for the January rally. It’s no Snake Clan. “He was the caboose.” and Davis were recognized for their part Staff Reporter coincidence that the training begins and goes few months. They crossed the finish line in Not all seniors opted to walk the “senior in making Rez Rally happen 20 years through the holiday eating season. unison. mile” course, some raced through the entire ago. McDuffie was presented with a BIG CYPRESS — Back at the turn “We are all watching football, gathering “We are training for a 10K race in 3-mile course at full speed. commemorative trophy for her service. of the millennium, Connie Whidden and for Thanksgiving and eating more than April,” said Marissa Osceola, who had a “I ran all the way,” said Ronnie Billie “I don’t do this by myself,” McDuffie Suzanne Davis, who both worked in the usual,” Davis said. “Keeping the activity baby just four months ago. “We sprint at the Sr., of Big Cypress. “I’ve been doing it off said. “Let’s keep this up and stay healthy.” Tribe’s health department, were looking for level up at that time of year is important.” end of every race we do.” and on and I try to stay in shape. I lift weights Karen Two Shoes, health clinic nutrition a way to get Tribal members to increase their Rez Rally’s more than 640 participants Alexis Aguilar, of Immokalee, had one and do push-ups. I always run at Rez Rally.” coordinator, mentioned all the programs physical activity. this year prove the event is a success. goal in mind for Rez Rally: to finish better Rez Rally is such a popular event that, available to help Tribal members, including “We were working with people who “I love the energy of all the people,” said than she did last year. for some, even illness didn’t stop them from the Center for Behavioral Health. had diabetes,” said Davis, Integrative Health Whidden. “I do it for my health and walk two “I kept the pace until the second mile,” hitting the course. “What I love about our Tribe is that we program manager. “It’s really important for or three times a week with my sister [Patty Aguilar said. “But then I had nothing left.” Rosie Grant walked the senior mile for take care of each other,” she said. “This helps those people to remain active.” Waldron]. It makes me feel good; I am not Olivia Cypress was also pleased to have the second time and was determined to finish us stay unconquered and stay 'Seminole Working together with Edna McDuffie, diabetic and I have no hypertension. I have finished better this year. it, despite battling a cold. Strong.'” Mitchell Cypress and Helene Buster, they some heart issues so my doctor told me to “I wasn’t last, so I’m getting better. Kaleb Thomas, of Brighton, was clearly Medals were given out to walkers, tapped into their passion for fitness and start walking years ago. My heart is stronger I used to be the last one to come in," said under the weather before the start of the race, runners, wheelchairs and strollers who walking. They wanted to create an event now than ever. He said whatever I’m doing, Cypress, who did Rez Rally for the third but pushed himself to run the full course. His placed first, second and third in every age that would be fun and inspire people to keep to keep doing it. So I keep doing it and will time. efforts paid off with a third place finish in the category. Each person was congratulated moving even after the event was over. continue to walk as long as I am able.” Bonnie Motlow, who has been in 18 to 36-year-old category. with a hearty handshake from council “We wanted to have it at the beginning Both walking and running can provide recovery for 20 years, does Rez Rally for “I was the fourth one in,” Thomas said. members and board representatives. of the year to inspire people to get involved positive health benefits. For some people, her health. “I almost stayed in bed this morning and The medals were presented on beaded in fitness and bring them together to have running pushes the heart and improves “I’m trying to stay healthy and this is didn’t expect to do so well.” necklaces made by Linda Beletso and her a good time,” Davis said. “The sense of cardiovascular health more than walking. good for my stamina,” Motlow said. “I was a After the race, a festive atmosphere daughters Lorraine Posada and Lenora competition gives it a fun twist.” But walking and movement of any kind lot heavier. I walk a lot, sometimes 20 miles filled the Junior Cypress Rodeo Arena as Roberts, of Immokalee. The trio couldn’t About 380 people showed up for the improves circulation and brings oxygen to a week, and I do yoga.” competitors finished the race and enjoyed a start working on the necklaces until the first Rez Rally, which surprised Davis. the body. It’s also less likely to sustain an For Esther Gopher, of Big Cypress, Rez healthy brunch. medals and beads arrived, just before “We didn’t have enough T-shirts to go injury while walking. Rally was a family affair. She walked with As the winning times were being Christmas. That left them a few short weeks around,” Davis said. “That’s when we said “Movement makes a huge difference in her daughters Chelsea Mountain and Kristen tallied, Moses Jumper Jr. read a poem he to get them done. we have to continue this.” physical and mental health,” Davis said. “It’s “We were really pushing it and were in a Rez Rally has been an annual event ever a great form of therapy for your body. When real time crunch,” Posada said. “We worked since that first one in 2000. you add the community and the rapport with every moment we could get. It was almost “I was there at the beginning and I have other people at Rez Rally, it adds a synergy like sweatshop conditions. But it was worth seen this grow and grow,” said McDuffie, and helps people move to a better place of it, I think they came out beautiful.” health outreach coordinator. “Now I see so wellness.” The 113 beaded necklaces was the many of our people walking and running, the Davis is inspired by people who make largest order they had ever done. They used younger ones too. This is what we do for our real changes in their lives because of Rez a technique Beletso taught her daughters; health.” Rally. the beads sit side by side and create a flat Every reservation has a team to get “The 20th year is special, it’s the start necklace. the community involved and interested in of a new decade,” Davis said. “The event “When I was running I thought I better competing with other reservations. It all starts is huge, but what happens afterward is also place because I want one for myself,” Posada in October with health department sponsored important.” said. “I made second place and Lenora got walks, pedometer and fitness programs to get third so we earned our beads back.” Immokalee won as the Reservation with F See CHIPCO on page 5A the highest Tribal percentage participating and took home the large basket trophy, which was also made by Beletso. Hollywood’s crowd of 199 won the Reservation trophy for most participants overall.

Beverly Bidney Crossing the Rez Rally finish line are Agnes Motlow, Big Cypress Councilman David Cypress, Lawanna Osceola Niles and Joe P. Billie. Beverly Bidney Andrew Bowers Jr. competes at Rez Rally in the middle of a pack of runners.

Beverly Bidney Beverly Bidney HERO senior director and THPO Officer Paul Beverly Bidney Brighton Councilman Larry Howard and Bobby Frank prepare to cross the finish line with other Rez Backhouse is in a peaceful mood as he runs the Hollywood team leaders Michael Cantu and Francine Osceola join Hollywood Councilman Chris Rally walkers and strollers. Rez Rally course. Osceola and Board Rep. Gordon Wareham with the winning trophy for the reservation with the most participation at Rez Rally. 2020 REZ RALLY RACE RESULTS Tribal 3-Mile Run Category Tribal 1-Mile Walk Category

Male Youth 6-11 Female Youth 6-17 Male Youth 12-17 Female Youth 12-17 Male 1 mile 60+ Female 1 mile 60+

1. Carter Wilson 1. Tatum Billie 1. Dakota Entry 1. Denise Gonzalez 1. Mitchell Cypress 1. Rose Jones, Loretta Micco 2. Josiah Holt 2. Jayla Macias 2. Chanon Frye 2. Aubee Billie 2. Roy Snow 2. Mahala Madrigal, Jenny Johns 3. Clinton Billie 3. Amalia Estrada 3. Bryce Osceola 3. Kimora Alex 3. David Cypress 3. Nancy Frank

Male 18-36 Female 18-36 Male 37-54 Female 37-54

1. Hunter Osceola 1. Ariah Osceola 1. Gil Yzaguirre 1. Cathy Cypress 2. Chayse Billie 2. Courtney Osceola 2. Marcellus Osceola 2. Lorraine Posada 3. Kaleb Thomas 3. Desiree Smith 3. Richard Keyser 3. Lenora Roberts Tribal Stroller Category Tribal Wheelchair Category

Male 55-68 Female 55-68 Male 69+ Female 69+ Female Male Kayven Emley 1. Joe Kippenberger 1. Shirley Clay 1. Andrew Bowers 1. Mary Tigertail Maxine Tucker Jock 2. Ronnie Billie 2. Patty Waldron 2. --- 2. --- 1. Brooke Osceola 1. Jarrid Smith 3. --- 3. Helene Buster 3. --- 3. --- 2. Jaryaca Baker, Kristen 2. Aero Osceola Billie 3. Michael Cantu 3. Janet Smith Tribal 3-Mile Walk Category

Male 18-36 Female Youth 6-17 Male 37-54 Female 37-54

1. Bryan Arledge 1. Tianna Garcia 1. Todd Johns 1. Marlin Miller General Category 2. Adrian Baker 2. Robin Landin 2. Peter Hahn 2. Melissa Billie 3. Clinton Holt 3. Janet Mata 3. Chris Osceola 3. Virginia Billie

Youth Run 6-17 Run Male 18-54 Run Female 18-54 Male 55-68 Female 55-68 Male 69+ Female 69+ 1. Jamesia Prue 1. John Crossdog 1. Saige Osceola 1. Jeff Johns 1. Janice Braswell 1. Andy Buster 1. Connie Whidden 2. JC Dimas 2. Paul Backhouse 2. Shawna Lambert 2. Sandy Billie 2. Bonnie Motlow 2. Joe Osceola 2. Minnie Bert 3. Adrianna Sigurani 3. Hector Casallas 3. Allison Nemes 3. Charlie Tiger 3. Jeannette Cypress 3. --- 3. Martha Jones Run Male 55+ Run Female 55+ Walk Female 55+

Rez Rally Team Results 1. --- 1. Patricia Miller 1. Frieda Utt 2. --- 2. Johanna Albrecht 2. Naomi Seymour 3. --- 3. --- 3. Sherry Allgair Highest Tribal Percentage Most Participants Overall Walk Male 18-54 Walk Female 18-54 Walk Male 55+ 1. Hollywood/Fort Pierce/Trail 1. Immokalee/Naples 2. Brighton/Tampa 2. Big Cypress 1. Jose Ramirez 1. Monique Young 1. Kenneth Doney 3. Brighton/Tampa 3. Big Cypress 4. Hollywood 2. Jeffrey Kozdron 2. Rossana Hahn 2. Kenny Hill 4. Immokalee 3. D’Anjelo Ware 3. Terri Frank 3. Seecharran Ramdass

5A • The Seminole Tribune • January 31, 2020 Seminole Strong Native American languages program BY MOSES JUMPER JR. lands four-year funding It started out as a group of people who had a BY DAMON SCOTT vision on their mind Staff Reporter Many thought it was a waste of time They brought to the tribe this quest for better After years of fits and starts and health for body and brain intermittent funding, a federal law that seeks They walk and ran sometimes in the rain to strengthen tribally-developed Native Soon this rez rally began to attract people American language revitalization programs from all reservations both high and low has found more solid ground. It brought together people, and this rally be- The Esther Martinez Native American gan to grow Languages Programs Reauthorization Act It brought families together hat hadn’t seen was signed into law in late December 2019 each other in a while by President Donald J. Trump after making They walk and ran and push each other in its way through Congress. wheelchairs mile after mile The bipartisan legislation would help Young men and women ran while others to revitalize Native American languages would walk and jog their way to the finish line through immersion and restoration Some raced while other took their time programs, something the Seminole Tribe is Everyone is encouraged to finish no matter very familiar with. Beverly Bidney what their time may be The Tribe’s own Pemayetv Emahakv It’s a walk or run or push your way to victory Charter School (PECS) on the Brighton Immokalee Council Liaison Ray Garza and Amy Garza proudly display the team percentage winning This rally is now in its 20th year trophy, a basket made by Immokalee resident Linda Beletso. Reservation has been recognized in Florida Rep. Deb Haaland Many have come and gone and for them we and across the country for its unique language shed a tear immersion program. And though we all come out one day of the PECS students are immersed in the year to run Creek language throughout the school day. It encourages us to come out each day and Parents are also required to be involved and have some fun. take a class to learn Creek. Your health you cannot trade or buy your life Martinez was a linguist and storyteller today for the Tewa people of New Mexico and was You control your life in every way known for her drive to preserve the Tewa We want to thank all the departments who language. She is the author of the “San Juan made this dream come true Pueblo Tewa Dictionary,” published in 1982. We hope each day we can get out and run, Martinez died in 2006 at 94 years old. walk or push ourselves anew After her death, Congress passed a law to In God we trust and it is Him who gives us amend the, then, Native American Programs life both short or long Act of 1974. The amended legislation And with this together we are Seminole provided funding opportunities to “assess, Strong plan, develop and implement projects to ensure the survival and continuing vitality of Native languages.” But the legislation expired in 2012, although the program continued to be funded. In 2015, U.S. Rep. Ben Ray Lujan, D-NM, introduced a bill to reauthorize appropriations until fiscal year 2020. He was Courtesy New Mexico Historic Women joined on the Senate side by U.S. Sen. Tom Esther Martinez Beverly Bidney Udall, D-NM. Hunter Osceola heads toward a first place finish in the male 18-36 category for the 3-mile run. However, neither chamber ever passed “Now that our bill … is signed into law, the bill and its future stayed in limbo. It is we will move forward on important work now funded through 2024. to revitalize our languages and traditions,” “When we invest in revitalizing Haaland said in a statement. Native languages, are we also investing in The National Indian Education rebuilding connections between generations Association has long been lobbying for of Native Americans and promoting higher passage of the reauthorization. academic achievement outcomes among “This bill represents a milestone in Native youth,” Udall, who is vice chairman expanding tribal sovereignty to develop of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, and implement Native language immersion said in a statement. programs that serve the unique academic and Deb Haaland, D-NM, the co-chair of cultural needs of Native students," the NIEA the Congressional Native American Caucus said in a statement. and one of two Native American women Currently, there are more than 40 active members of the House of Representatives, grants totaling more than $11 million that said the bill’s passage was important because are being used for language preservation and programs that support language preservation immersion efforts. are underfunded or have no funding at all.

Beverly Bidney Tribal Fair schedule Eecho Billie looks strong as he gets close to the end of the race. Friday, February 7* Saturday, February 8* Seminole Ballroom Seminole Ballroom

11AM Seminole Ballroom and 9AM Seminole Ballroom & Vendors Beverly Bidney Vendors Open Open Lorretta Micco picks up fruit and water during her Rez Rally journey. Emcees: Juaquin Hamilton / Howard Emcees: Juaquin Hamilton / Howard Thomson Thomson Traditional Seminole Clothing 12 PM TBA Contest* 2 PM Pow Wow Grand Entry Terrace Ballroom 5 PM RC North - Main Stage *No registrations on day of event 7 PM Pow Wow continues 11 PM Pow Wow ends 12 PM Pow Wow Grand Entry Hard Rock Grand Ballroom 2 PM RC North Terrace Patio 8 PM Screening: Pow Wow Highway 4 PM Freestyle Alligator 10:15 PM Native Celebrities Photo Wrestling Competition Op 6 PM Osceola Brothers 7 PM Pow Wow continues 11 PM Pow Wow ends Sunday, February 9* Seminole Ballroom Hard Rock Grand Ballroom

12 PM Seminole Ballroom & 5 PM Short Film Screenings (5) Vendors Open 7 PM Native Celebrities Photo Op - Emcees: TBA Freestyle Alligator Wrestling Competition

1 PM Fashion Show Beverly Bidney Grand Ballroom Beverly Bidney Running to his own beat, Gil Yzaguirre crosses 2 PM Osceola Brothers Jason, Laverne and Elle Thomas enjoy being part of Rez Rally. the finish line in Big Cypress. 3 PM Big & Rich *Schedule subject to change without 6 PM Tribal Fair Ends prior notice.

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COME VISIT OUR BOOTH AT BRIGHTON FIELD DAYS! 6A • The Seminole Tribune • January 31, 2020 Chairman Osceola, Jackson brothers help break ground for new Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana

BY ANALICIA AUSTIN be here today and to see this dream become Digital Content Coordinator a reality. A lot of work has gone into this project, a lot of planning. I’m grateful to Indiana is getting a Hard Rock Casino all those who played a part in it. There is for the first time no doubt this is a game changer for Gary, Hard Rock International and Spectacle Indiana, and the entire Northern Indiana Entertainment held a groundbreaking region.” ceremony Jan. 9 for the development and Spectacle Entertainment pledged to work construction of Hard Rock Casino Northern with minority and women-owned businesses. Indiana in Gary, Indiana. All 17 senior leaders at Spectacle’s Majestic Chairman of the Seminole Tribe Star Casino are board directors for local Marcellus W. Osceola Jr. was joined at charitable and community organizations the event by representatives of Hard Rock in Gary and the Northern Indiana region. International and Spectacle Entertainment, The team has sponsored, participated and HRI’s partner on the project. Three members volunteered in multiple local events and of the Jackson 5 – Jackie, Marlon and Tito programs. Jackson – were on hand as well. The Jackson Hard Rock’s involvement drew praise 5 was founded in Gary. from the Jacksons. The 200,000-square-foot entertainment “I want to thank Hard Rock International complex will include six food venues, for recognizing that Gary, Indiana, is a sportsbook, a retail shop, a 2,000-seat a special place,” Marlon Jackson said. Courtesy photo showroom and more than 2,130 gaming “Building this casino will stimulate jobs From left, Seminole Tribe Chairman Marcellus W. Osceola Jr.; Marlon Jackson, of the Jackson Family; Jahnae Erpenbach, executive vice president of positions. Phase two of the project will see in Gary, Indiana. Building this casino will operations Spectacle Entertainment and general manager of Majestic Star Casino; Jackie Jackson and Tito Jackson, of the Jackson Family; Rod Ratcliff, the addition of a 200-plus-room hotel and a increase the economy, and we look forward chairman & CEO Spectacle Entertainment; and Greg Gibson, vice chairman of Spectacle Entertainment, participate in a groundbreaking ceremony on Jan. multi-level parking garage. to working with the mayor, and hopefully 9 at Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana in Gary, Indiana. Spectacle Entertainment Chairman bring historical events here.” and Chief Executive Officer Rod Ratcliff “Keep in mind that this doesn’t impact stated, “Breaking ground for Hard Rock just Gary itself; it impacts globally to the Casino Northern Indiana is the start of an state of Indiana because of all the people that incredible partnership between Spectacle are going to come here,” Chairman Osceola Entertainment, Hard Rock International and said. the City of Gary, Indiana. It is an honor to

Courtesy photo Courtesy photo Hard Rock International executives gather at the groundbreaking of Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana. From left, Giovanni Taliaferro, director of memo- From left, Tito Jackson, Seminole Tribe Chairman Marcellus W. Osceola Jr., Jackie Jackson and rabilia design; Jon Lucas, COO; Joe Emanuele, vice president of development; Sean Caffery, senior vice president of business & casino development; and Marlon Jackson at the Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana groundbreaking ceremony. David Carroll, senior vice president of human resources. Trump signs order creating MMIW task force

BY DAMON SCOTT At the signing, Trump called the scourge positive.” programs; funding for research relating to Indian Affairs to look at the issue of MMIW, Staff Reporter of violence facing Native American women missing and murdered Indigenous girls; and including funding for work on cold cases, and girls “sobering and heartbreaking.” More federal support violence against Indian women in remote background checks, equipment needs, “With ‘Operation Lady Justice,’ we communities that are underserved by law training and forensic training at the Indian Despite his administration’s spotty will bring new hope to Native American Meanwhile, the U.S. Senate, on Dec. enforcement. Health Service. record of supporting Native American communities across the nation,” Trump 19, 2019, passed two funding bills that • $38 million for tribal assistance in • Better coordination, data collection issues, President Donald J. Trump ordered said. “We will deliver justice for the victims, address MMIW and violence against Native state and local law enforcement. and sharing among tribal, local, state and the creation of a task force to address the closure for the families, and safety to those American women. • $30 million for tribal resources federal law enforcement to address and plight of missing and murdered Indigenous in harm’s way.” under the Community Oriented Policing prevent violent crime. women (MMIW) and girls. Immediate reaction from Indian Country Highlights of the bills included: Services (COPS) program, an initiative to • A 5% set-aside from the Victims of Trump’s executive order was signed was generally positive, but sometimes increase the number of police officers and Crime Act fund for tribes to address services Nov. 26, 2019. The task force is called skeptical. • $502.5 million for Violence Against train them. for victims of domestic and sexual violence. “Operation Lady Justice.” “The executive order gives hope to our Women Act prevention and prosecution • $6.5 million for the Bureau of In 2019, almost 5,600 Indigenous tribal nations that justice is being sought and women were reported missing to the Federal that there is a path for healing of our families, Bureau of Investigation’s National Crime victims and survivors,” Navajo Nation Vice Information Center. In addition, the National President Myron Lizer said at the signing. Institute of Justice reports that 84% of Abigail Echo-Hawk, chief research Indigenous women experience violence in officer of the Seattle Indian Health Board, their lifetime. said the executive order is a step in the right Federal studies have also shown that on direction but should focus not only on rural some reservations, women are killed at a rate reservations, but urban cities, too. more than 10 times the national average. “[Missing and murdered Indigenous Further, advocates say the remarkably women and girls] is a nonpartisan issue high numbers and sobering statistics likely because it is simply about the safety of represent undercounts in most official women,” Echo-Hawk said in a statement. records and reports. “We support our tribal partners and believe But the issue has begun to get more this federal task force has the potential to attention in recent months, partly due to the have an impact on reservations, but I urge election of the first two Native American that urban Indians have a voice within it.” women to the U.S. House of Representatives Skeptics pointed to the Trump in the 2018 midterms – Rep. Deb Haaland, administration’s past disrespectful rhetoric D-NM, and Rep. Sharice Davids, D-KS. regarding Native Americans and his Trump’s task force is to run for two continued support of oil pipelines built near years and be overseen by Attorney General Native American lands. William Barr and Interior Secretary “We’re cautiously hopeful,” Lauren David Bernhardt – part of an “aggressive, French said. government-wide strategy.” French is the communications director The Department of Justice will for Rep. Ben Ray Luján, D-NM, one of the collaborate with 11 heads of other federal more outspoken and supportive members in departments to work with tribes and state and Congress on Native American issues. local agencies to address reports of MMIW. “Having the White House pay attention “Operation Lady Justice” stakeholders to the issue is wonderful,” French said. “It’s are tasked with developing protocols to about the follow through. If they follow apply to new and unsolved cases and create through in a meaningful way with respect, Official White House Photo by Joyce N. Boghosian a team to review cold cases. partnership and sovereignty, that would be a President Donald J. Trump signs an executive order to establish a task force on missing and murdered American Indians and Alaska Natives on Nov. 26, 2019, in the Oval Office of the White House.

Alicia Keys returns to 82nd annual Brighton Field Day Festival the stage with “Alicia - The World Tour” and Rodeo to be held Feb. 14-16 at Hard Rock Live

BY BEVERLY BIDNEY “Xtreme Bulls” Feb. 16 at 3 p.m. Field Day started in 1938 as an athletic FROM PRESS RELEASE Staff Reporter On Feb. 15 the Florida State University competition between reservations and a Marching Chiefs are scheduled to perform chance for Tribal members to enjoy a fun HOLLYWOOD – 15-time Grammy BRIGHTON — An abundance of with singer Shannon Reed before the rodeo. day with one another. Once the rodeo, Award-winner Alicia Keys brings the Native American dance, art, culture, food, Daily Native American dance food, arts and crafts were added, the event “Alicia - The World Tour” to Hard Rock music – including alligator wrestling and performances will include the Aztec Fire morphed into the massive festival it is now Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino a pro rodeo – are expected to bring large dancers, White Mountain Apache Crown with thousands of visitors attending every Hollywood on Sept. 22 at 8 p.m crowds to the 82nd annual Brighton Field dancers, Zuni dancers and the Haskell Pow year. Tickets cost $287, $212, $152, $112 and Day Festival Feb. 14-16 on the Brighton Wow Dance and Drum Group. Gates open at 9 a.m. Feb. 14 and $97. VIP packages are available for purchase. Reservation. Competitive freestyle alligator wrestling activities begin at 10 a.m.; gates open at 8:30 Tickets are available at www.myhrl.com. Each of the three days will kick off and a venomous snake show are sure to a.m. Feb. 15 and activities begin at 9:30 Doors open one hour prior to show time. with a grand entry parade consisting of create thrills for the crowds. A traditional a.m.; and gates open at 9 a.m. Feb. 16 and Additional fees may apply. Tribal officials, royaltyand Native American Seminole weapons demonstration, Osceola’s activities begin at 10 a.m. Her forthcoming seventh studio album dancers. Warrior Legacy, will entertain and educate. For more information, visit “Alicia,” is set to be released on March 20, Highlights of the weekend will include Seminole culture will be on display with brightonfieldday.com. via RCA Records. scheduled performances by country singer clothing and traditional women’s hairstyle Elizabeth Cook on Feb. 15 at 7:30 p.m., contests. Traditional arts and crafts, clothing Meko & Pewo Feb. 14 at 7:15 p.m., the and jewelry will be for sale along with those Courtesy photo PRCA Rodeo on Feb. 14-15 at 3 p.m. and from other tribes. Elizabeth Cook 7A • The Seminole Tribune • January 31, 2020 Native American issues once again For Tribe’s wildland firefighters, focus of presidential forum Australia blazes hit close to home BY BEVERLY BIDNEY they are treated by the government as if they are BY DAMON SCOTT Staff Reporter doing illegal burns. Staff Reporter “They are working to move into those Nearly 28,000 square miles of Australia legal bounds,” Steelman said. “They are trying have been consumed by wildfires since to do it successfully by focusing on educational Native American voters seem to be September. That land, more than 18 million getting more attention from Democratic and spiritual connections.” acres, is larger than the states of New Jersey, The Australians’ takeaway from the trip presidential candidates this election cycle. Massachusetts and Maryland combined. For the less cynical, the reasons could be was one that is a familiar issue in the U.S. As of Jan. 13, 28 people have perished “They realized they had to get the historic that the hopefuls actually care about issues in the fires, nearly 3,000 homes have been that affect Indian Country. The more cynical attitudes out of the picture and understand that destroyed or damaged and about 1 billion aborigines were going to have issues in the might think the attention comes down to animals have been killed. getting votes in close elections. process,” Steelman said. “But the end goal is Summer in Australia is typically hot and a healthier, more productive and more spiritual After all, there are a significant number dry, leading to fire season. This year the season of Native American voters in swing states landscape. But they can’t do that without getting is more intense and expected to last a few more the old stereotypes out of the way.” where elections are decided by just a handful months. of ballots. For 50,000 years Australia’s aboriginal Fighting the out of control fires in New people have been managing the land by Nevertheless, the second (ever) South Wales, the most populous state in the presidential forum that was solely focused focusing on prevention through prescribed country and home to Sydney, has proved to be burns of small, low intensity fires which have on Indian Country topics took place Jan. 14 a challenge. To alleviate some of the burden on and Jan. 15 in Las Vegas, Nevada. usually been successful in preventing the large Australian wildland firefighters, as of Jan. 7 the out of control fires. According to historian Bill Nevada holds its presidential primary U.S. sent 159 wildfire and aviation management June 9 and is one of those key swing Gammage, emeritus professor at Australian personnel including seven from the Bureau of National University, the aborigines know what states, along with Arizona, Michigan and Indian Affairs. Wisconsin. Those four states alone have types of land to burn, when and for how long. The U.S., Australia and New Zealand “Where the aboriginal people are in charge, about 1 million Native Americans with lots have been exchanging fire assistance for more of electoral sway. they’re not having big fires,” Gammage said than 15 years; the last time American wildland in an interview on CNN. “In the south, where The forum was held at the University firefighters fought fires in Australia was in 2010. of Nevada, Las Vegas’ Artemus W. Ham white people are in charge, we are having In June 2018, the Seminole Tribe hosted problems.” Concert Hall. The first forum was held at a few Australian wildland personnel and gave the Orpheum Theatre in Sioux City, Iowa, Like the aborigines, Seminoles are them a fact-finding tour of Big Cypress. They proactive with land management and understand on Aug. 19 and Aug. 20. Both forums were came to learn how Native Americans manage billed as nonpartisan events. the seasonality, climate and what flourishes on their wildlands, deal with wild fires and respect their land. Australia’s climate has monsoonal Native customs and culture simultaneously. patterns; it is similar to the U.S. southwest What they said in Vegas Trejo Vanegas Australia doesn’t have the federal framework and is dry before wind events and monsoons The Four Directions organization and its staff were organizers and sponsors of the presidential forum like the U.S. and Native Americans have in the occur. But like the southeast, their plants need One Democratic hopeful appeared in in Las Vegas with other Native American groups. Barb and OJ Semans (front, right) are the cofounders BIA. person, some interacted with the audience prescribed burns to keep the landscape from and co-executive directors of Four Directions. “The aborigines don’t have federal getting out of control during fires. via livestream and others sent taped interaction with the Australian authorities messages. Themes candidates referred to “It’s made for fire over there,” Steelman She detailed some of the specifics of an independent running for president, was to manage their land,” said Grant Steelman, said. “I heard that the land burned already is often included support for tribal sovereignty, ERMD fire management officer/forester. “The pledging resources to address the plight of her plans regarding Native American affairs, involved in both days of the forum. greater than the fires in the Amazon, Indonesia including suicide prevention, child abuse “I think we have now done one of the purpose of the trip was for aboriginal and and California put together.” missing and murdered Indigenous woman Australian federal fire officers to see how they (MMIW), the disproportionate violence treatment and housing legislation. Warren most powerful things in Indian Country that The 2019 fires in the Amazon burned said it was part of 55 bills she has been is going to be carried on from generation to can work together by mirroring how Native more than 2.3 million acres, in Indonesia more against Native American women, and American tribes and the federal government assurances the federal government would involved in that have had positive effects on generation,” Four Directions co-founder and than 2.1 million acres burned and in California tribal communities. co-executive director OJ Semans (Rosebud do.” more than 259,000 acres burned. More than 18 recognize existing treaties. Chris Kemp, fire rescue assistant fire There was also talk about the Warren also said that as president she Sioux) said after the final day of the forum. million acres have burned in Australia so far. would halt the Keystone XL and Dakota Four Directions is a Native American management officer, also went on the tour The BIA crew will remain in Australia establishment of a new Cabinet-level of Big Cypress with the Australians, which position for Native American affairs and for Access oil pipelines and that she wanted to voting rights organization and one of the for about 30 days, which Steelman noted is an see the Native American Voting Rights Act main sponsors of the forum. included a fire burning in the Big Cypress extended run. Fourteen days is more typical, but more Native American federal judges to be National Preserve. appointed. passed. “We did this for our people and our only they have done 28 day rotations. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, D-Hawaii, ask of all of this is for our people to respond “They explored our wildfires and are “That’s about as long as you can go without Businessman Tom Steyer was the only trying to get better acquainted with how we candidate to appear in person. He spent appeared briefly via livestream and former in order to empower more of our people. So mental exhaustion,” Steelman said. “The South Bend, Indiana, Mayor Pete Buttigieg this is not about me or about an organization, work in the U.S.,” Kemp said. “Their terrain physical exertion combined with the stress can about an hour answering questions from a and weather patterns are different than ours. I panel of tribal leaders. offered a pre-taped interview to the forum. it’s about us. It’s about nations, it’s about our lead to exhaustion. That’s when people get hurt. Gabbard and Buttigieg, both military people and it’s about empowering us and wish them the best of luck.” They [Australians] are in a bad way now and Steyer said he’d been working for Native Australian aborigines are more focused American interests in Nevada through his veterans, praised the history of Native taking back what is ours.” relief is not in sight. I would expect the U.S. to American contributions to the country’s Along with Four Directions, sponsors on ecological management of the land for their send more firefighters over time.” support of a passed ballot initiative in 2018 traditional uses, but according to Steelman, that required electric providers to increase Armed Forces. included Nevada Tribal Nations, Native renewable resorces. In a brief video statement, former Vice American Rights Fund, National Congress He also said his NextGen America President Joe Biden promised to strengthen of American Indians, Native Organizers organization had helped to register and tribal nations in the same way the President Alliance and Seeding Sovereignty. energize Native American voters. Barack Obama administration did. Find videos of the forum on vimeo.com, Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-M.A., Sen. Bernie Sanders, D-V.T., submitted by searching “Native American presidential answered questions via livestream for about a six-minute video message late in the day forum.” More information is also available 30 minutes. that organizers described as “substantive.” at fourdirections.com. Native American activist Mark Charles, Native American voting reforms in 2020 spotlight BY DAMON SCOTT access to voting be handled (or precleared) Staff Reporter by tribes. (Preclearance is typically a process Courtesy photo approved by the U.S. Department of Justice). The Sydney Opera House as it projected images of firefighters on its iconic exterior Jan. 11 as a tribute The bill would create a first of its kind to firefighters who have been battling the Australian blazes. Election officials across the country Native American voting rights task force and continue to prep for the coming elections of establish a grant program for get-out-the-vote 2020, and voting rights advocates are keeping efforts and increase election infrastructure. an eye on issues related to registration, “Unfortunately we’ve continued to Tribes to gain better farm agency identification and access. see barriers erected to stop Americans Lawmakers are also involved in bills from exercising their right to vote. And too access through new agreement that seek to expand strengthen voting rights. often those barriers target Native American The Democrat-controlled U.S. House voters and other Americans of color, BY DAMON SCOTT of Representatives passed the Voting Rights including recent measures that forced strict Staff Reporter Advancement Act (included in H.R. 4) in and burdensome voter ID laws on tribal early December 2019 on a near party-line communities in North Dakota,” Luján said It’s a more than 10-page document that Indian lands. [It] vote. It would reestablish federal oversight in a statement. can look intimidating. But the underlying goal provides outreach of state election law and solidify protections North Dakota was in the spotlight is to improve assistance to Native Americans to Indian from racial discrimination based on the 1965 during the 2018 midterm elections. Its farmers and advance conservation efforts tribes, Indian Voting Rights Act. state legislature implemented a voter-ID across Indian Country. landowners and The bill is now in the Senate (S. 561), requirement that served as a barrier to voting A memorandum of understanding Indian land users, where its future with the Republican majority for thousands of Native Americans who live Rep. Ben Ray Luján, D-NM, is the original sponsor (MOU) was signed by leaders of several including non- is uncertain. on reservations and use P.O. boxes rather of the Native American Voting Rights Act. agencies under the U.S. Department of Indian producers Meanwhile, another voting rights bill than residential street addresses. Agriculture and the Bureau of Indian Affairs that are leasing (BIA) who are tasked with carrying out the Indian lands, in is moving through the House that deals Despite many obstacles, the Native by 15 senators and 94 House members. specifically with Native Americans. It is a American vote continues to play a significant objectives. order to inform Supporters are hoping for passage of both The agreement took place Nov. 6, 2019, the respective separate bill that was not included in H.R. 4. role in national, state and local elections. bills sometime this year. The Native American Voting Rights Act Native Americans have been elected to during the National Tribal Conservation tribe or person of Barry Hamilton, national “We are really hopeful. There’s a lot of Districts Conference at the Hard Rock Hotel NRCS program (H.R. 1694) was reintroduced in the House state and federal governments at a higher support within the House. It could move in tribal relations officer at in March 2019 by Rep. Ben Ray Luján, rate in recent years. In Alaska, New Mexico, & Casino Tulsa in Catoosa, Oklahoma. opportunities. the USDA’s NRCS. this Congress,” Lauren French said of the The Seminole Tribune asked Barry D-NM, and in the Senate (S. 739) by Sen. Oklahoma and South Dakota, Native Native American Voting Rights Act. Tom Udall, D-NM. Americans make up 10% or more of the A. Hamilton of the USDA’s Natural Anything French is the communications director Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) else you’d like to mention? The bill is currently in the process of voting population. for Rep. Luján. committee reviews. And yet, as many as 1 million eligible to break it down. He is the national tribal “It would be really helpful if our relations liaison officer and national tribal This MOU supports collaboration, Udall, who had originally introduced the Native American voters are unregistered. Republican colleagues would see the bill in the last Congress, is the vice chairman “For too long, Native Americans environmental adaptation coordinator at the coordination and cross training between importance of making sure all Americans agency. the three agencies (BIA, NCRS, and of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. have been blocked from exercising their who have the right to vote go to the ballot The bill aims to expand Native American constitutional right to vote,” Udall said in a Farm Service Agency) to become better box,” she said. “We want to make it as How would you explain the basics of knowledgeable of each agency’s function and voter registration and education, establish statement. “With every election cycle, state bipartisan as possible, but it’s not an issue accessible polling and voter registration and local jurisdictions come up with new the MOU? programs to better serve the tribes and tribal that Republicans in the House are rushing to producers. It also allows BIA and NRCS to sites, clarify language requirements, ways to deny Native Americans equal access embrace, which is unfortunate.” authorize tribal ID cards for voting purposes to the ballot box.” The MOU is in place to ensure that leverage technical and financial services to and require that certain decisions affecting The legislation is so far co-sponsored each of our signatory federal agencies are support the tribe’s efforts to improve their working collaboratively to address the needs natural resources on agriculture and range of Indian Country. By being aware of each lands. of our agencies requirements and agency’s The MOU also states that [the] Farm Secretarial election to be held Feb. 12 trust responsibilities to our tribes, we can Service Agency will work to inform others streamline information and communicate of county committee elections. County more clearly on the needs and concerns of committee members are elected by the BY BEVERLY BIDNEY years old or older on Election Day. upon approval by the Secretary of the Interi- Staff Reporter our tribes and Native Americans producers local community and can impact producers The BIA sent registration packets to all or on March 28. to ensure better participation in our federal through their decision making and help shape eligible voters in December. The deadline At least 30 percent of registered voters programs. the culture of a local FSA office. They also The Bureau of Indian Affairs has sched- to register was Jan. 15. The election will be must vote for the election to be valid. If the ensure the fair and equitable administration uled a Secretarial election for Feb. 12. This held by mail in ballot only. BIA ballots were 30 percent threshold isn’t reached, there will What would be of interest to the of FSA farm programs in their counties election will replace the one previously sent only to those who have registered. be no changes made to the constitution and Seminole Tribe, knowing it’s involved in and are accountable to the secretary of scheduled for Dec. 2018 which was can- Ballots must arrive in the post office by bylaws. agriculture and cattle producing? agriculture. All members of Indian tribes celled due to a U.S. federal government Feb. 12. Mailing them early enough to arrive If the 30 percent of voters cast ballots, holding agricultural land are eligible to vote shutdown. at the post office will ensure a vote will be the votes will be counted and results posted It establishes a foundation for improved in county committee elections if they meet Secretarial elections are federal elec- counted. at all Tribal office administration buildings coordination, planning and implementation the age requirement. tions administered by the BIA and are con- There will be three amendment chang- on Feb. 12. of USDA programs on Indian lands. In ducted through the U.S. mail. All Tribal es on the ballot, which were included in the addition, the signatories seek to improve More information is at nrcs.usda.gov. members must be registered for this specific registration packets . If ratified, the changes assistance to American Indians in addressing Hamilton can be reached by phone at (202) election and are eligible to vote if they are 18 will be reflected in the amended constitution the comprehensive agricultural, conservation 260-8540 or via email at barry.hamilton@ and bylaws of the Seminole Tribe of Florida and economic needs of communities on usda.gov. 8A • The Seminole Tribune • January 31, 2020

Halapata Chobee: big alligator!

dubbed, “Alligator Bridge.” Depending on the relationship of the Seminole people to the BYJUSTIN GILES the season, wet or dry, there are a few to as alligator. Surely, a walk through the exhibit Oral History Coordinator many as 10 ‘gators that seem to just love will provide an appreciation of these reptiles Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum hanging out. Even while on the museum and their environment they share with us. grounds at work there are ‘gators that come The Seminole alligator wrestlers that you and visit us as well. For a more controlled will see and hear in the exhibit have opened Happy New Year! As I practice the alligator environment, you can head down up a small window into their role as cultural annual beneficial cliché of reflecting on the the road from the museum to Billy Swamp caretakers and entertainers, “walking in year past, it has come to my attention that Safari and see some alligators hanging out two worlds” type of stuff. Certainly, that is 2020 marks two years I’ve been working too. One thing is for sure, when you work or the fun of this exhibit as we learn that the for the Seminole Tribe of Florida as the visit the Big Cypress Reservation, you will alligator is so much more than some ‘gators oral history coordinator at the Ah-Tah-Thi- be hanging out with 'gators. So be sure to be hanging out at “Alligator Bridge.” Ki Museum. These past two years have aware of your surroundings. The good thing The exhibit is showcased through Nov. flown by and it is an amazing feeling to be is, if you don’t mess with the ‘gators, they 29, 2020, and I encourage a visit to experience comfortably immersed in my job, loving my won’t mess with you. Sage advice indeed for more Seminole culture. I am very thankful new Seminole community and family, and every human. that my role with the oral history program living the Florida beach lifestyle. Although, This New Year also brings more at the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum has provided one specific aspect of my new life in Florida alligators to the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum me many friendships and experiences that really sticks out the most: I hang out with with our new exhibit, “Alligator Wrestling: consistently include our reptilian alligator alligators! Danger. Entertainment. Tradition.” I had friends. Please be aware my human friends, Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum Driving to and from the Big Cypress the privilege of assisting with the curation come hang out with alligators on the Big Justin Giles and an alligator at the opening of the Billy L. Cypress Building in 2019 Reservation every weekday morning and of the exhibit by conducting and providing Cypress Reservation and enjoy! evening entails a quick visit to a bridge I’ve archival oral history interviews relating to Alligator wrestling comes to Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum

BY BEVERLY BIDNEY explained that traditionally, his clan is the wanted to get the best of the gator and got Staff Reporter one that blesses alligator wrestlers. Although it to admit to its weakness, which the rabbit he tried wrestling as a young teen, he didn’t used against it. The moral of the legend is to stick with it. Both of his parents, Moses Sr. be careful who to trust. BIG CYPRESS — The opening and Betty Mae Jumper, wrestled alligators. “We use stories to tell kids what to be reception for the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum’s Seminoles realized the economic impact and what not to be,” Wareham said. “During latest exhibit “Alligator Wrestling: Danger. gator wrestling could have when tourists the Seminole wars sometimes there were Entertainment. Tradition.” on Jan. 11 drew used to “throw money” at them as they enemies in our camps who said they were an impressive crowd. caught the animals in the wild. They used friends. They were really U.S. Army scouts The lawn behind the museum was to eat them and trade the hides with settlers looking for information. It was important packed to capacity with about 150 people near the coast. then, and still is now, to know who you give eager to learn about the history of alligator Alligator wrestler Billy Walker, who information to.” wrestling and see it in person. grew up in the Everglades near Everglades With that, the grassy area was given The afternoon began as attendees City, shared a bit of history about his chosen over to Walker and an eight-foot alligator enjoyed a catered lunch under the trees and avocation. named Blackjack. Walker caught it in a chickees. Music was provided by Paul Buster, “We used to catch gators as a food source Brighton pasture last year, but this was the who peppered his set with stories about and kept them alive in pits with turtles,” first time he wrestled it. Beverly Bidney growing up among nature in Big Cypress. Walker said. “We didn’t have refrigeration.” Armed with cell phones and cameras, Hollywood Board Rep. Gordon Wareham delights the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum crowd with a Seminole Miss Florida Seminole Durante Blais-Billie Walker was mentored by Thomas Storm the crowd documented the action as Walker legend as a slide show from the exhibit “Alligator Wrestling: Danger. Entertainment. Tradition.” plays conveyed the importance alligator wrestling Sr. and started wrestling gators when he was first tired out the feisty gator and then took in the background during an opening reception Jan. 11. had on the Tribe. 13 years old. control of it. He explained what he was “The alligator wrestling tradition of the “Alligators fed us, clothed us, housed doing as he jumped over the beast, dragged Tribe shows the ingenuity of our ancestors,” us and helped us travel the world,” said it by the tail, captured it by the snout and said Blais-Billie. “We turned to alligator Hollywood Board Rep. Gordon Wareham. ultimately subdued it by sitting on its back. wrestling and tourism to survive. It has been “Thomas Storm Sr.’s motto was 'have gator, After the show, attendees posed with a passed down from generation to generation will travel.'" baby alligator and toured the museum. and is unique to our Tribe. It’s something we Wareham then told the Seminole legend The interactive exhibit is open through are very proud of.” about the alligator and the rabbit. The rabbit Nov. 29, 2020. Moses Jumper, of the snake clan,

Beverly Bidney At left, as spectators at Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum watch, alligator wrestler Billy Walker works to get control of an alligator by tiring it out through a series of actions forcing the animal to quickly move around. Above, patrons enjoy a luncheon under the trees behind the museum at the opening reception for the alligator wrestling exhibit.

Beverly Bidney Beverly Bidney Jr. Miss Florida Seminole Aubee Billie introduces Above, Billy Walker approaches an alligator as helpers remove tape from the animal’s jaw. At right, Moses Jumper Jr. explains the role of the Snake Clan herself to the museum goers. to bless alligator wrestlers and entertains the crowd with stories of his very brief foray in the sport of alligator wrestling as a young teen. 9A • The Seminole Tribune • January 31, 2020 F ICWA From page 1A

en banc hearing with the Fifth Circuit. Health The request for an en banc hearing was an unusual one, Kastelic said, if for no other reason than it’s rare to get one granted – usu- ally about a 3 percent chance. Diabetes program funded It’s simply tough logistically, because now instead of three judges ruling on the issue it must go before the entire 17-judge for short term (again) panel of the Fifth Circuit. Kastelic did her best to remain optimis- tic. BY DAMON SCOTT to strongly advocate for long-term “We could have looked at it as a blow. I Staff Reporter reauthorization of SDPI,” the group said in guess the way I looked at it is the Fifth Cir- a statement. cuit, which doesn’t have much experience There had appeared to be an agreement with Indian Country, recognized the respon- Advocates for the funding of two on SDPI funding at $150 million for four diabetes-related programs that benefit Native sibility it had to rule on it,” she said. “They years in a House version and for five years were saying: we’re willing to expend the Americans have once again come up short in in a Senate bill. Tribes had asked for $200 the federal budget process. energy and resources to rule on this and the million. far-reaching impacts of the decision.” The Special Diabetes Program for But despite bipartisan support during Indians (SDPI) and the Special Diabetes But regardless of the Jan. 22 result, Kas- the summer months, many lawmakers telic doesn’t see the fight ending any time Program (SDP) were given five-month expressed concerns with part of the packages extensions in Congress’ recently passed soon, if ever. NICWA that would have established a “median in- She estimates there are more than a doz- 2020 budget. network reimbursement rate for all out-of- NICWA held its conference in Fort Lauderdale in 2014, where Sarah L. Kastelic met kids from the However, the National Indian Health en other cases in different states and federal Seminole Tribe’s Head Start program. network providers.” courts challenging the constitutionality of Board and at least 19 other Native American “Multiple lawmakers and many external advocacy organizations have been intensely ICWA. Kastelic thinks the next stop is likely stakeholders would prefer that disputes be the U.S. Supreme Court. lobbying for months to secure five years of settled through a ‘baseball-style’ arbitration vulnerable kids take precedence over racial funding. considerations.” Fight continues approach, which several state governments ‘ICWA is the first domino’ The latest short-term fix is not the first have opted to use to address surprise billing,” “They have no history of caring about one, either. There have been at least two the NIHB said. Indian issues or child welfare issues,” Kas- Moving forward, Kastelic said NICWA others in the past two years. The current Since ICWA’s passage in 1978, there telic said. “It isn’t really about Indian kids will continue to keep tribal leaders updated In addition, external stakeholders have always been challenges and opponents. funding lasts through May 22. such as hospital and provider associations and families; you’re trying to take down on the latest developments. She continues “NIHB continues to stress to lawmakers Some opponents have come in the form hundreds of years of federal Indian prece- to work with state leaders to promote a pro- were hoping to see more widespread use of private adoption agencies and their attor- the undue challenges and problems with of arbitration, as opposed to a more narrow dent for tribal sovereignty, natural resources, ICWA position, too. short-term extensions and will continue neys. The reason is that ICWA makes fewer economic development. It’s all about under- There’s also been greater engagement scope proposed in the package. children available for adoptions. Nevertheless, SDPI is considered one of mining tribal sovereignty. ICWA is the first with local and national media. Kastelic describes it as a supply and domino.” That was a lesson learned from 2013, the most successful public health programs demand issue. International adoptions have in Indian Country and nationwide. Over the Attempts to reach representatives from Kastelic said, over media coverage of a U.S. decreased and it’s put more pressure on the the Goldwater Institute by the Seminole Tri- Supreme Court-reviewed ICWA case. life of the program, the incidence of end- domestic market. stage renal disease among Native Americans bune were not successful. The high court ruled 5-to-4 that Dusten At any given time, Kastelic said, the Further, what distinguishes the Brack- Brown (Cherokee) did not have a right to his has dropped 54% - the largest decline for any domestic market has 2-million families who demographic in the U.S. een case from past challenges is that it was child because he had signed it away – though are looking to adopt. But there are only about a state suing the federal government on he claimed he did so under misleading cir- Cost savings highlighted in a 2019 50,000 children who are considered healthy report from the Department of Health and ICWA’s constitutionality. Kastelic said that cumstances. and available. is what makes it unprecedented and presents The justices granted custody to a white Human Services estimates that SDPI saves “Native [American] children are highly Medicare up to $52 million each year. a “whole other level of opposition.” couple from South Carolina who had adopt- prized in the adoption market,” Kastelic said. It doesn’t prove, however, that a majori- ed the child while Brown was serving in the “The data suggests that SDPI funding Author Suzette Brewer (Cherokee), and the Seminole Tribe of Florida receives is ty of states are turning against the law. U.S. Army. others, have said that Native American chil- While Indiana and Louisiana joined “[Media coverage] was so anti-ICWA. having an impact on the prevalence, severity dren are also in demand because they are and early detection of diabetes in Tribal Texas in the Brackeen lawsuit – 26 oth- All the terrible things said about Native fam- seen as being both “closest to white” than er states and the District of Columbia so ilies – that they don’t care about their kids, members,” Dr. Paul Isaacs, the executive other ethnic groups and at the same time director of the Tribe’s Health and Human far have said ICWA is the “gold standard” they are alcoholic and poor. We knew this “exotic.” and best practice for the adoption of Native time around we had to approach the media Services Department, said. But Kastelic suspects the larger issues SDPI typically funds prevention and American children. differently,” Kastelic said. to the ICWA challenges have less to do with “States are overwhelmingly in support NICWA has written more op-eds and treatment related to type-II diabetes, while caring about the welfare of Native American SDP funds type-1. of ICWA,” Kastelic said. “You have three pitched more stories since then. children and more to do with a long-term rogue attorney generals who have the same “We are really trying to push out mes- “Whether the Tribe is fortunate enough goal of undermining tribal sovereignty. to have their own self-funded health agenda as the Goldwater Institute – going af- sages about Indian County and Indian fam- One example is the efforts of the Gold- ter tribal protections.” ilies and why [ICWA is] still necessary and insurance, we should never lose sight of the water Institute – a conservative public policy trust obligation the U.S. government has to Further, she said the state of Texas, iron- why it’s the gold standard,” Kastelic said. Tribune file photo think tank located in Phoenix that has played ically, is embroiled in several class action More information is at nicwa.org. provide health care to Native Americans,” an active role in trying to overturn ICWA. Dr. Paul Isaacs is executive director of the Tribe’s Isaacs said. lawsuits over claims it runs a subpar child Health and Human Services Department. The Goldwater Institute operates an welfare system. “Equal Protection for Indian Children” proj- “They are fighting all these changes ect. The project is described as being “devot- they are supposed to be making to the state NIHB Youth Fellows meet ed to ensuring that the individual rights of systems,” Kastelic said. Timeline of recent ICWA challenges • March 2019: Three-judge panel of Native families. the Fifth Circuit hears oral arguments in the with Native lawmakers • 2017: Texas couple Chad and case. Why is it necessary? Jennifer Brackeen sue the U.S. Interior • Aug. 2019: Panel rules 2-to-1 to FROM PRESS RELEASE told the fellows. “I went to my first political Department after their petition to adopt a overturn O’Connor’s ruling. The U.S. Congress passed ICWA in meeting and was elected to Congress” he Native American toddler they had fostered • Nov. 2019: En banc rehearing 1978 to try and remedy a period in American said. Further, Haaland encouraged NIHB’s for more than a year was challenged in state granted with Fifth Circuit. history when the government took tens of WASHINGTON — In January, the Youth Fellows to create their own path to 2020 cohort of the National Indian Health court. • Jan. 22, 2020: En banc hearing thousands of Native children (25% to 35%) advocate for change in Indian Country. • Oct. 2018: U.S. District Judge results in [?]. away from their families on reservations. Board (NIHB) Health Policy Fellows held The NIHB Youth Fellows were also its first face-to-face meeting in Washington, Reed O’Connor (Brackeen vs. Bernhardt) They were sometimes taken by force and provided an opportunity to ask questions rules ICWA is unconstitutional; appeals are What is ICWA? put in boarding schools or to be assimilated D.C. As part of a week’s worth of events and inform the lawmakers about the health toward training the next generation of Native immediately filed. with white families. Children often suffered issues facing their own Tribal communities. • Dec. 2018: U.S. Fifth Circuit ICWA requires states to prioritize physical, sexual and cultural abuse. Some health leaders, NIHB’s Youth Fellows had Later that same afternoon, NIHB’s Youth the opportunity to visit with all four Native Court of Appeals grants stay on O’Connor placing Native children in foster or adoptive never returned home. Fellows traveled to the Senate Committee ruling. homes with Native families over non- lawmakers – Representatives Tom Cole (R- on Indian Affairs for a special bipartisan OK), Deb Haaland (D-NM), Markwayne roundtable discussion with SCIA staff and Mullin (R-OK), and Sharice Davids (D- with staff from the Congressional Native KS) – and engage in discussions about their American Caucus. NIHB’s Fellows were experiences on Capitol Hill. The gathering able to learn about congressional staff’s marked the first time all four lawmakers had personal experiences that inspired them to FREE EVENT attended an event together. Each lawmaker get involved in national policy and advocacy, shared about their experiences with the while also learning about ways they could Indian health system, and their efforts within get engage at the local level. Congressional Congress to honor and fulfill the federal staff also shared additional information trust responsibility for health services. about the legislative process, including how “We have Democrats and Republicans, legislation with Indian provisions moves in and we have men and women,” said Cole, both the House of Representatives and in the hlighting the fact that there is currently the Senate. largest and most diverse Native caucus in The NIHB Health Policy Fellowship congressional history. is a professional development program for Through the sharing of personal Native youth who are dedicated to making a experiences, all four members encouraged difference in the health of their communities. NIHB’s Fellows to apply their passion Each year, a cohort of fellows is selected to for Indian health to advocate for positive work directly with their tribal leadership to change. identify a priority health issue. “I think you will be amazed how quickly you will be called to lead” Mullin FEBRUARY 7-9, 2020 SEMINOLE HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO

Head Staff: Southern Emcee: Juaquin Hamilton Northern Emcee: Howard Thomson Arena Director: Chaske LeBlanc Arena Director: Wendall Powless Drum Judge: Calvin “Beaver” Campbell

Grand Entry Times: Friday Afternoon: 2:00pm - 5:00pm Friday Night: 7:00pm - 11:00pm Saturday Afternoon: 12:00pm - 5:00pm Saturday Night: 7:00pm - 11:00pm Sunday: TBA Registration: Thursday: 12:00pm - 6:00pm | Friday: 9:00am - 1:30pm (Reopens 2:30 pm - 6:30pm) Registration tables closed 30 minutes before each Grand Entry. NO EXCEPTIONS!

PRIMITIVE CAMPING OVER $150,000 AVAILABLE! CDIB REQUIRED! IN PRIZE MONEY! Participants Only • First Come, First Serve

For further information regarding the Pow Wow, you may contact: For further information visit: Pow Wow information call: Vendors contact: 1-800-683-7800 ext 11468 Virginia Osceola - 954.292.2597 SEMTRIBEFAIR.COM Wanda Bowers - 954.444.9827 Eugenia Osceola - 786.537.1905 Camping information call: Performers are allowed to bring Alice Tucker - 954.732.8353 folding chairs into the venue. For hotel and travel info contact: Native American Travel Deadline for space reservation is Direct line: 954-967-3614 January 24, 2020. Email: [email protected] No drugs allowed to Tribal event.

Tribal Fair & Pow Wow (TFPW) reserves the right to use any photograph/video taken at any event sponsored by TFPW, without the expressed written permission of those included within the photograph/video. TFPW may use the photograph/video in publications or other media material produced, used or contracted by TFPW including but not limited to: brochures, invitations, books, newspapers, magazines, television, websites, etc. 10A • The Seminole Tribune • January 31, 2020 SEMINOLE SCENES

Beverly Bidney (2) ROYALTY WORKOUT: Miss Florida Seminole Durante Blais-Billie, left, and Jr. Miss Florida Seminole Aubee Billie warm-up for Rez Rally on Jan. 11 in Big Cypress. At right, the medals of the race feature Seminole Strong.

Hard Rock Cafe NYC/Facebook COMMUNITY SUPPORT: Hard Rock Cafe in New York City presents a check in the amount of $5,000 to GiGi’s Playhouse on behalf of the Hard Rock Heals Beverly Bidney Foundation in January. According to its website, Gigi’s is New York City’s only community center specifically for individuals with Down syndrome and IMMOKALEE IBIS: Ibis enjoy the water and sun during a recent visit to the Immokalee Reservation. their loved ones.

Hard Rock Tampa/Facebook AHOY!: Thousands of people attended the Seminole Hard Rock Gasparilla Pirate Fest on Jan. 25 in Kevin Johnson Tampa. The Hard Rock Girls participated in the parade and other related events in the city. Marvel star MEN AT WORK: The Seminole Tribe held “Fun at Work Day” on Jan. 24. Employees were encouraged to be creative and inject fun into the workplace and six-time WWE world champion Dave Bautista served as grand marshal. through contests, games, music and other endeavors. Seminole Media Productions employees, from left, Martin Ebenhack, Gilbert Fevry and Carlos Menendez entertained co-workers with rock ‘n roll music at lunch.

Hard Rock Cafe Singapore/Facebook Kevin Johnson OH, RATS: 2020 is the “Year of the Rat” in the Chinese zodiac cycle, so Hard Rock Café Singapore is SUPER STADIUM: Hard Rock Stadium, shown here on Jan. 24, prepared to host the Kansas City Chiefs and San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl LIV on offering this pin as part of its new collection. Feb. 2. Jazz in the Gardens will be held at the stadium from March 13-15 and the best tennis players in the world will be at the stadium March 23-April 5 for the Miami Open. 11A • The Seminole Tribune • January 31, 2020 NATIONAL NATIVE NEWS Native American group files new park access for marginalized groups. commemoration would remind the world Native groups seeking tribal status to prove to make sure lesson plans were aligned to,” claims in Alamo lawsuit Newsom’s budget proposals must be that the Wampanoag people and other a common bond back to at least 1936, she said. “These concepts are sovereignty, approved by lawmakers. The governor and Native Americans were still around. “We’re CoastAlaska reported Jan. 16. identity, federal laws and policies and A Native American group has filed the Legislature must agree to a budget deal hidden in plain sight,” she said. “If we’re The bureau would settle expectations genocide. So those essential understandings an amended petition in its federal lawsuit by June, in time for the 2020-21 fiscal year not living in a teepee or riding a horse on among tribes petitioning the federal government, were developed with the intent as a claiming the Alamo is a cemetery that merits to start in July. the plains we’re not recognisable but we’re the state of Alaska, tribes already federally framework as the lesson plans were created.” legal protection. your neighbours, your co-workers, we go to recognized, and local governments, the agency They purposely tried to form the The Tap Pilam Coahuiltecan Nation - Sacremento (Calif.) Bee school with you.” said. curriculum around unraveling stereotypes filed the new document in January that Among the other commemorative The Department of the Interior currently and misconceptions about Native Americans focuses claims against the nonprofit Native Americans protest against events in Devon involving Native Americans reviews petitions on a case-by-case basis. and provide professional development that Alamo Trust Inc. — as well as its CEO, Department of Social Services is a community theatre piece called This “This proposed rule would not affect would reinforce to educators why this is Douglass W. McDonald — and Texas Land Land, which wrestles with the history of the the status of tribes that are already federally important and instrumental in teaching a full Commissioner George P. Bush. Mayflower and the impact of its arrival. It is recognized,” the BIA wrote. image of history. RAPID CITY, S.D. — Dozens of to be performed and created with hundreds An attorney representing two unrecognized Native American curriculum can be In December, a federal judge had protestors gathered on Cambell Street across dismissed San Antonio and two state of residents of Plymouth in the UK and tribes that have been trying to gain federal taught in every class, educator Brainard said, from the Department of Social Services in members of the Wampanoag people and will recognition since the 1990s said a new rule beyond just social sciences and history. agencies as defendants in the lawsuit seeking Rapid City to express their frustration as to slow the $450 million, four-year overhaul feature songs written and performed by the could further slow the process. As the director of the Natives Program they say there is a problem of taking Native Devon folk artist Seth Lakeman. Michael Willis represents the Qutekcak in Eugene School District for 25 years, of Alamo Plaza in efforts to protect the area American children from families and putting as a historic cemetery. Another intriguing project is Settlement, Native Tribe in Seward and the Knugank tribe Brainard has taught on topics such as Native them into foster care. billed as a collaboration between a Plymouth near Dillingham in the Bristol Bay region. American dance in physical education The group’s amended petition accuses Native American protesters chanted and the Alamo Trust and General Land Office collective and the Native American artist “It seems like the Department of Interior is classes, Native foods in health, basket held signs reading “our children are not for Cannupa Hanska Luger. It will involve Native trying to find ways to delay yet again rather than weaving and totem carving in art, and native of selectively applying and interpreting the sale” along Cambell Street on Jan. 21. federal Native American Graves Protection American artists “occupying” Plymouth’s treat the Qutekcak Native Tribe consistently storytelling in language arts. Roberta Shoulders was one of the Central Park to explore colonialism. with other Alaska Native entities who have Last year she taught more than 500 and Repatriation Act in an attempt to exclude protesters and said the movement was partly Tap Pilam from participating in the Alamo Charles Hackett, the chief executive organized under the Alaska IRA,” Willis said in lessons across all disciplines and grades, she sparked by the death of her friend’s little of Mayflower 400, said Native Americans reference to the Alaska Indian Reorganization said. project. brother who she said died in foster care. Members of Tap Pilam claim lineal ties had been missing from previous UK Act, the law that guides tribal recognition. The history piece is, of course, still The protesters said the Department of commemorations. “This is not a story about Several tribes and Alaska Native a major pillar of lessons, Brainard said. to ancestors at the Mission San Antonio de Social Services is not following the Indian Valero. a boat leaving one place and arriving in organizations expressed skepticism that a There’s still much to be taught on topics Child Welfare Act (ICWA) by not returning another place,” he said. “It is a story that has new rule would be necessary. There was also such as restoration and termination, Native Tap Pilam executive member Ramón children to their families. Vásquez said Alamo officials have a huge sweep of history.” criticism of the BIA for sending letters to tribal American housing, tribal comparisons and, ICWA is a federal law created to govern Hackett said the arrival of the Mayflower leaders during the peak fishing season in early of course, the expedition of Lewis and Clark. “weaponized” NAGPRA by inviting “tribal the removal of Native American children representatives not native to Central or South was a seismic moment in the creation of July. “So much of our history here in Oregon, who are in the state’s custody. what is now the west, but was cataclysmic “The arrival of a ‘Dear Leader’ letter, but for the whole United States is always Texas,” with different cultural practices than As someone who was in the foster care those of Tap Pilam, to guide the project on for the Wampanoag people. “It’s important much of it written with legalese, during the East looking West,” she said. “It’s this system for about seven years, Shoulders said we include all the voices that are significant. subsistence season prompted widespread magnificent expansion, and we rarely look at an archaeology advisory committee. it was a horrific experience. “This approach indicates Commissioner We won’t get it entirely right. How can you? concern and forced tribal leaders to choose the West viewing what happened to the East. She said Native American children need But we’re committed to doing it better than between subsistence and consultation,” wrote “I always tell my students, that I want Bush regards all Indians as the same, to be placed with their families to protect regardless of their direct connections to it was before.” Vivian Korthuis, CEO of the Association of to be very clear that I think Lewis and their culture. - The Guardian Village Council Presidents in Bethel. Clark (are) heroes — but so is Sacagawea,” those buried at the Alamo, and that having “The White system, there not taught Indians at the table is enough,” Vásquez said The Bureau of Indian Affairs did not Brainard said. “There are some inaccuracies, who they are. They lose their identity. They immediately respond to requests for comment. but there are also missing points — the at a news conference Jan. 23. lose who they are. They are not taught their The amended petition was filed Jan. 22 Pamunkey Tribe launches plan wonderful contributions of the Indians, traditional ways and they need to know that. - Anchorage Daily News of the Native indigenous people that were meeting a deadline set by Chief U.S. District They need to know who they are and where for $350M casino resort Judge Orlando L. Garcia. here.” they come from. That’s very important to Bethel School District also has been Vásquez said his group also plans to keep our tradition alive. Like they say the A Virginia Indian tribe that includes Schools start teaching lessons file a new lawsuit over the cemetery issue Richmond as part of the territory where from Oregon’s Native American working on incorporating tribal history since children are sacred and they are,” Shoulders last year ahead of the state’s rollout. in state district court in Bexar County. It will said. tribal ances- tors lived and hunted before tribes list the city and historical commission as the English invasion is planning to make a Rachel Hsieh teaches fourth grade at We reached out to the Department Malabon Elementary School. A teacher defendants, he said. The move is an effort to of Social Services and have not heard a splashy return to this modern city in the form This month, Oregon’s Department of address Garcia’s concerns over jurisdiction, of a $350 million resort hotel and casino. for 10 years, she has taught at Malabon response yet. Education finally rolled out the first pieces for six, and worked this year to integrate he said. The Pamunkey Indian Tribe, no longer of new statewide curriculum on the history The latest developments in the lawsuit confined as it had been for 362 years toa conversations about tribal history with - KOTA-TV (Rapid City, S.D.) and culture of Native Americans in Oregon the direction of curriculum developed by follow recent discoveries of human remains. 1,200-acre reservation in King William after lawmakers passed Senate Bill 13 in After finding unattached human bones County that nestles the river that bears the Oregon’s Confederated Tribes of Grand Mayflower 400 events could 2017 with the hope of remedying years of Ronde. and bone fragments in the Alamo mission tribe’s name, announced its huge proposal incomplete or inaccurate teachings. church in August, September and October, help recover lost Native American Jan. 17. “A lot of times, students still come in treasure This school year is the first time districts with pictures of braids and feathers and not archaeological crews uncovered skeletal According to a statement, the tribe are required to implement the change in remains in November and December that is planning to put its gambling resort on a a lot of clothing, so we do a lot of ‘What do Native Americans whose ancestors classrooms — but the curriculum is not yet Native Americans look like?’” Hsieh said, were identified as an infant, a teenager or 36- acre warehouse and storage complex available for all grades. young adult and a large adult. suffered at the hands of 17th-century at Ingram Avenue and Commerce Road in about dispelling stereotypes. European settlers and adventurers are hoping Because the department is “behind,” it She has introduced new reading South Side — a property once eyed for a decided [recently] to do a soft roll-out this - San Antonio (Texas) Express-News commemorative events marking the 400th modern city jail before the current Shockoe materials, territory map projects and anniversary of the Mayflower’s journey will year with a hard implementation starting this information about Oregon’s nine tribes. Valley location north of the James River was summer, said April Campbell, the advisor reveal their story to the whole world – and chosen. “Kids just come in and are naturally so Gov. Newsom apologized to even lead to the recovery of one their long- to deputy state superintendent on Indian open-minded,” Hsieh said. “I think it’s our The only Virginia tribe with the right to education. Native Americans. Now he’s ready to lost treasures. develop casinos, the Pamunkey stated the grown ups who have a harder time. ... Kids fund a healing council A year-long series of exhibitions, But despite the delay in full see the injustices faster.” tribe has an option to purchase the property implementation, local educators are excited performances and community events will made up of three parcels. The tribe also Incorporating accurate Native American for the positive impact the new curriculum history and curriculum has helped students California Gov. Gavin Newsom wants be centred on the Devon port of Plymouth, has a separate option to purchase a 13-acre England, four centuries after the ship set sail will have on Native communities in local understand and recognize those injustices nearly half a million dollars per year to fund property at Walmsley Boulevard and Jef- schools when it arrives. for North America, and thousands of people ferson Davis Highway that was the site of and struggles, she said. the Native American council he created “It just warms my heart and makes in June, according to public documents from both sides of the Atlantic are expected a King’s Department Store, part of a now- to take part. me happy. It makes me smile,” said - Register-Guard (Eugene, Ore.) detailing the governor’s state budget plans. defunct chain. Brenda Brainard, who is a member of Newsom established the Native Organizers say that the close The tribe plans to initially use the old involvement of members of the Wampanoag the Confederated Tribe of Coos, Lower First Nations in northern Alberta American Truth and Healing Council department store property as a training center Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians. “Having last summer through an executive order nation, whose ancestors were all but wiped for future casino employees and indicated launch Cree language app out following the arrival of the colonists in worked in Indian education for 25 years, I that formally apologized for California that the space later could be converted into never thought this would happen — I never government’s slaughter of native people, 1620, is crucial to the success of the project. a community grocery store or health care Imagine beginning to learn a new “We’re very pleased to be standing dreamed.” family separations and forced servitude. The operation. SB 13 is short and clear in its purpose: language through an app — but instead of council will include representatives from up as equals on an international platform The casino plan is not a done deal. The an automated voice, it’s your grandparents to tell our story,” said Paula Peters, who is to ensure that all of Oregon’s public schools California tribes who will compile stories development currently awaits re-enactment have curriculum related to “the Native sharing their first language through your from native people clarify the historical a member of the Wampanoag and sits on of state legislation allowing casinos that phone. an advisory committee helping shape the American experience in Oregon, including record of government violence against them. was first approved last year. That legislation tribal history,” according to the bill language. A new Cree language app aims to help “It’s called a genocide,” Newsom said British commemoration. included a requirement for a referendum to First Nations students build their Cree “So often the story of the Mayflower This encompasses the history of topics at an event announcing the apology in June. allow Richmond voters to decide whether to such as sovereignty issues, Native culture, knowledge and enrich their land-based “No other way to describe it... I’m sorry on is just about the boat. The Mayflower lands allow casino operations. learning with the voices of Elders from and the pilgrims are depicted as founders, treaties and current events. The teachings behalf of the state of California.” Still, the tribe is bullish on the prospects must be historically accurate, “culturally across five First Nations in northern Alberta. A budget request prepared by Newsom’s not takers,” she said. For Peters’ ancestors, for acceptance and eventual success. “The students will hear the voices it was very different: a brutal tale of disease, relevant,” and community-based. tribal adviser Christina Snider outlines uses Chief Robert Gray stated the tribe “is This law follows similar mandates to of their mushums and kookums, their for $450,000 per year for four years, then enslavement and massacre. excited about our plans” to transform a grandparents, and that will instill pride in But it is not just about looking back, teach tribal history enacted in Washington $225,000 in the 2024-25 budget year for commercial area on South Side into a high- state in 2015 and Montana in 1999. them,” said Audrey Anderson, land-based the council’s work. The money would come Peters said. “The commemoration also gives quality gaming center to help “secure our curriculum co-ordinator at the Kee Tas Kee us the opportunity to remind the world who The state department’s responsibility from the state’s Environmental License future and provide an economic boost for the per the law was to work with the nine Native Now Tribal Council Education Authority Plate Fund. we are and that we are still here. We are a city and its residents.” (KTCEA). “And they will be proud of their viable and very active nation of indigenous American tribes in Oregon to develop The money would fund stipends and As currently envisioned, the resort 45 lesson plans across all disciplines and language.” travel for the 12 council members and a people.” would feature a four-diamond, 275-room It took three years to develop KTCEA One of the most eye-catching grades, Campbell said. . The department researcher to compile documents from the hotel tower with views of the James River also is required to provide professional Elders Speak — which was finished in California State Library and Archives. It commemoration projects is the exhibition of and Downtown from the upper floors. Along 2019, the UN-declared International Year of an ornate wampum (shell bead) belt, which is development trainings to school districts would also fund psychological support with a casino, the hotel also would feature about how to teach this curriculum. Indigenous Languages — from connecting services for people who attend the council’s being created by more than 100 Wampanoag a spa, fitness center and pool, high-end with fluent Elders to developing the games people. Patterns on the belt made out of The laws says districts are responsible meetings because of the traumatic history restaurants, a food court and at least 1,000 for implementing in their schools a minimum and activities on the app. being discussed. thousands of quahog (clam) shells tell the parking spaces. It features more than 900 words across story of the Wampanoag through symbols of 15 of the 45 lessons available. California government’s history of The tribe projects the gaming resort Although the curriculum is not yet 50 categories for beginner, intermediate violence against native people dates back such as whale, deer, fish and a creation tree. would attract 4 million visitors a year, and advanced levels, and has already been The belt has been worked on at powwows available for all grades, the lessons that to the year California became a state in Tribal spokesman Jay Smith said unlike are available — for fourth, eighth and 10th viewed more than 30,000 times around the 1850, when the state passed a law to remove and other gatherings in Massachusetts since other businesses for whom a casino is a world. July and will be complete by February. It graders — were put out by the department indigenous people from their traditional profit center, this casino is seen as a means this month. The team at KTCEA focused the app on lands. will be a star attraction in a show that will for the tribe to gain a revenue stream to be cultural traditions and activities by asking tour UK cities connected to the Mayflower “We were hoping to have all 45 lessons It continued a history of oppression used for other projects, such as creating a up before the beginning of this school year more than 150 Elders what they would like institutionalized by Spanish settlers through from April, led by the city’s new cultural university for Native Americans, developing their children to know about their way of centre The Box. and now we’re just putting up some of the California’s mission system in the late senior residences for tribal elders and others lessons this month,” Campbell said. life, and what they would like the world to 1700s, which forced indigenous people to Peters hopes the making of the belt may and other beneficial community projects. know about their nation. prompt the return of an old one, that of the There was supposed to be a hard rollout convert to Christianity and perform labor. The prospect of the casino development of the material — which is distributed “The communities we serve are still The Truth and Healing Council is tasked Wampanoag chief Metacom. It has not been appears to counter Mayor Levar M. Stoney’s very entrenched in land-based learning, they seen since it was taken to England in 1677 through the department website — this year. with finishing its work and creating a report refrain that Richmond’s prosperity requires The primary delay on the curriculum still hunt, they still fish and trap as part of on native history for the governor by 2025. following the bloody King Philip’s War the $1.5 billion Coliseum replacement their way of life,” said Daphne Mai’Stoina, between Native Americans and colonists. development was due to extra time working The funding would also cover Snider’s project, otherwise nothing would happen in with Native leaders to create the “Essential KTCEA superintendent. “So this was a travel to California’s 171 tribes over four “We continue to look for this belt,” said Downtown or elsewhere. natural progression, to have land-based Peters. “It’s not just a treasure, it’s our story. Understandings of Native Americans in years as part of her work with the council. “The mayor is excited about the Oregon,” which are nine foundational topics, learning embedded into the app.” In addition to advising Newsom on It could be in England still, perhaps in a opportunity to bring a resort casino to Anderson noted that there are a number private collection. It may be pie in the sky such as as sovereignty, treaties, genocide and native issues and proposed legislation, Richmond,” said Jim Nolan, Mayor Stoney’s identity, they decided the curriculum should of fluent speakers across the five nations Snider also oversees the state’s Tribal Nation but we hope the tour of our new belt may jog press secretary, in responding to a Free Press the KTCEA serves, but that it remains a someone’s memory. That’s a tangible thing be built on. Grant Fund, which distributes money raised query about the casino plan. “We’ll wait to The law only states that the challenge for students to retain Cree due to from gaming to tribes. She also leads the that could come out of all this.” see what happens in the General Assembly the pressures of social media platforms and Julia Marden, the weaving manager implementation of the curriculum must first state’s effort to incorporate feedback from and what it means for the city.” start during the 2019-2020 school year, but the majority-English entertainment they native people as it builds a new California for the new belt, and a specialist in eastern consume. woodland art, said she was honoured to be does not dictate any other deadline within Indian Heritage Center to replace the State - Richmond (Va.) Free Press that year. A number of community members are Indian Museum in Sacramento. part of the project. “We’re getting as many also survivors of the Indian Residential tribal members as possible involved,” she “We’re encouraging districts to The Newsom administration is also Bureau of Indian Affairs proposes look at the lesson plans as they can,” she School System, which stole the language requesting separate funding to hire an said. from many of them by forcing their removal Marden, who is also a member of the change affecting Alaska tribal said. “We’ve been doing professional assistant secretary for tribal affairs in the recognition development since last summer. ... There’s from their communities and forbidding Cree California Natural Resources Agency to help Wampanoag, said she supported the idea not to be spoken while at these schools. of recovering the Metacom belt, but seeing still a significant need to continue to do native Californians access state parks and professional development,” so more will be “Retention is where we want to ensure assist with the development of the Indian others held in places such as the British JUNEAU, Alaska — Alaska tribes that there are the speakers under 25, because Museum handed back. “As an indigenous seeking federal status will have to demonstrate provided this summer. Heritage Center. The state developed the curriculum with the language carries all the knowledge,” said The administration is requesting person I would say we want it all back, but more than 80 years of history under a new Anderson. we’re realistic. We know we’re not going to process proposed by the Bureau of Indian the input of Native leaders for 18 months, $360,000 per year for that position and Campbell said. another assistant secretary for environmental get it all back.” Affairs. - Edmonton (Alberta, Canada) Journal Marden also said she hoped the The proposed rule would require Alaska “It’s a 50,000-foot level (look) — justice who would also work on expanding critical, essential concepts that they wanted 12A • The Seminole Tribune • January 31, 2020 SOUTH FLORIDA’S ULTIMATE ENTERTAINMENT DESTINATION NEW STATE-OF-THE-ART ENTERTAINMENT VENUE FEB 7 & 8 FEB 21 & 22 FRANKIE VALLI JERRY SEINFELD & THE FOUR SEASONS

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Visit HRComedyClub.com for complete performance schedule 1B • The Seminole Tribune • January 31, 2020 Education B CSSS director brings expansive experience to Tribe

BY DAMON SCOTT and athletes. He did weddings, too. the regulatory structure in the U.S. was Staff Reporter Wedding photography can be an too complex, so it divested its American admittedly high burnout gig, so Giacchino holdings in 2018 and shut down its Miami HOLLYWOOD — Michael Giacchino returned to education and worked for campus. recognized an artistic side early in life and Southeastern University (before it added Giacchino said he then only applied for spent many years developing it. He said he Nova to the name) as a communications two jobs: a position at the Broward Center was following his passion. specialist. for the Performing Arts and for the CSSS Now an education administrator for the He was later a specialist in theater, too – director position at the Tribe. Tribe, it might seem like a bit of a departure landing a job at the African Heritage Cultural He thinks he got the better of the two. from artistic pursuits. But at second glance it Arts Center in Miami teaching public “It’s a nice family structure and the makes more sense than one might think. speaking, drama and stand-up comedy. CSSS team is good,” Giacchino said. Giacchino is the new director of the You read that right: Giacchino has “We’re hoping to change the name back to Tribe’s Center for Student Success and taught stand-up comedy. He’s performed it, ‘Education’ one day soon so everyone will Services in Hollywood. His first day on the too. know who we are.” job was Nov. 12, 2019. “I did some in college and for [Miami- He said his immediate focus since being CSSS oversees five initiatives: K-12 Dade County] as part of the arts and cultural hired has been outreach. education, higher education, the library affairs division for events,” Giacchino said. “We can’t just hang up a sign and say that program, tutoring and Tribal Professional “I’d sometimes get on stage and perform we’re here, come and visit us,” Giacchino Development (TPD). Three work experience in the 300-seat Black Box Theater or at the said. “Outreach creates engagement, and programs fall under TPD: summer work [Joseph] Caleb Auditorium in front of 1,100 from there we get participation and then we experience, work experience and advanced people.” can reassess. So that’s the cycle that we’re career development. But he hit a glass ceiling working for the working on.” The CSSS offices are in Hollywood county and decided to go to paralegal school CSSS tracks about 1,050 students in its and there are about 60 staff members in the at Florida International University. kindergarten through 12th grade program. department tribalwide. “They said: ‘Why don’t you become a There are another 250 higher education lawyer?,’” Giacchino recalled. students. Some overlap exists in the tutoring Art, education So, he went to NSU’s Shepard Broad program as well, so Giacchino estimates College of Law. the department serves somewhere between Born in Philadelphia, Giacchino, 56, He started in a business concentration, 1,500 and 1,700 Tribal students. spent much of his youth in Germany where but earned his law degree with honors in Giacchino’s been to Brighton, his father was a teacher, athletic director and mediation. He worked in the criminal court Immokalee and Big Cypress so far. coach for the U.S. Department of Defense. division on pretrial intervention cases for Giacchino lives in Hollywood with his Giacchino was a budding high schooler juveniles. wife of 10 years, Shu Chen Wang. Wang is when he started doing television work for his Giacchino enjoyed the experience but from Taiwan and teaches Mandarin Chinese teachers. He followed that by working for ultimately decided practicing law wasn’t for at Pine Crest School in Boca Raton. nine years in radio during his college years. him. The couple doesn’t have kids, unless (He’s got the radio voice to prove it). Back to post-secondary education, he you count their two cats. He earned a degree in speech taught at Barry University, the University of As far as hobbies go, Giacchino said: communication at the University of North Phoenix, the (former) Corinthian Colleges “I enjoy playing many musical instruments Carolina at Greensboro – his academic focus and at Concorde Career College. badly.” Guitar and harmonica are two of his was film and video production. He’s been a program chair, director of favorites. Giacchino later added a master of fine student services and an academic dean. He also toys with 3D animation art. arts in drama, broadcasting and cinema to “For years, computer art has tried to his resume at the school. Road to Tribe emulate reality. Now that we have emulated Giacchino came to Florida in 1989 with reality, I try to take where we are and make it hopes of landing a job on the production His most recent role was at the School more to look like graphic art,” he said. team of the Miami Vice TV series. As luck of Audio Engineering (SAE) as the director In case you were wondering, the theater would have it, however, that year marked the of education at its Miami location. aficionado’s favorite stage show is “School Damon Scott show’s final season. SAE is a boutique school based in of Rock” and his favorite movie is “The Michael Giacchino was named the new director of CSSS on Nov. 12, 2019. So, he worked as a photographer and Australia with locations in dozens of Godfather.” videographer in Aventura at made-for- countries. The school teaches professional More information is at csss.semtribe. paparazzi events taking pictures of celebrities audio recording. com. But SAE’s parent company decided Florida Southern College’s Wyatt Youngman named ag fraternity pres

BY BEVERLY BIDNEY citrus farming in particular. Youngman Staff Reporter is a citrus major, as are most of the FSC members of AGR, the national professional and social fraternity of agriculture. The only LAKE PLACID — Wyatt Youngman other chapter in the state is at the University admits he isn’t much of a people person. of Florida. He likes working by himself in his family’s “The focus of the frat is to bring sprawling orange grove in Lake Placid. agriculture people together and build So how did this accomplished young connections,” Youngman said. “Betterment man, a junior at Florida Southern College of agriculture is the motto.” in Lakeland, become the president of the Youngman is the first Seminole and school’s chapter of the Alpha Gamma Rho likely the first Native American to serve fraternity? as president or, as the frat brothers prefer, “I run a fraternity; I know it’s an “noble ruler.” AGR has a group of vice oxymoron,” said Youngman, 22, who was “noble rulers” who perform tasks including elected in December 2019. “When I first got finances, recruitment, house manager and to college it was kind of boring and I didn’t secretary. have a lot of friends. When you join a frat According to AGR faculty advisor you meet people with similar interests.” professor Malcolm Manners, Ph.D., the Those interests are agriculture in general; fraternity is unique in that its scope is

Beverly Bidney Wyatt Youngman stands in his family’s 500 acre orange grove in Lake Placid on Jan. 21.

both social and professional. Manners, Valencia oranges. Like all orange trees in teach the class since he knows so much,” professor of citrus science and coordinator the state, these suffer from citrus greening she said. “He is smart, quiet and respectful; of the program, has taught Youngman in disease which will ultimately kill the trees in everything you want in a son and he is horticultural science, citrus science and plant about 10 years. Prior to the disease afflicting Seminole. I’m very proud.” nutrition classes. Florida’s groves, Youngman said trees used Youngman doesn’t see his role as “I am finding Wyatt to have a good to live about 50 years. the leader of his fraternity as an extra work ethic, a strong sense of responsibility “I like to look at the trees and see what responsibility; he sees it as a benefit for him, and a desire to move the fraternity forward they need,” he said. “Whether they have a his AGR brothers and all citrus majors at to success,” Manners wrote in an email. nitrogen deficiency, PH problem or just need FSC. “I think all of the brothers like and respect water.” “In AGR we get job offers,” he said. him.” Rita Youngman has seen her son thrive “Companies come in looking for citrus Beverly Bidney Youngman plans to take over the in the grove; he does hedging, topping, majors and offer jobs or internships. We are Wyatt Youngman, president of the Alpha Gamma Rho agriculture fraternity at Florida Southern family business when he graduates. The irrigation, planting and more. not really a party fraternity.” College, checks out Valencia oranges on the Youngman family’s orange grove. grove consists of 500 acres of Hamlin and “His teacher told him he could probably

CNAY’s Champions for Change ready to convene

Davis (Navajo Nation), Isabella Madrigal As a group, the 2020 Champions are FROM PRESS RELEASE (Cahuilla Band of Indians & Turtle Mountain working to revitalize language and culture, Band of Chippewa Indians) and Shavaughna advocate for gun control, destigmatize mental Underwood (Quinault Indian Nation). illness, implement traditional coping mechanisms WASHINGTON — The Aspen Institute’s Each year, CNAY selects five inspirational for intergenerational trauma, increase visibility Center for Native American Youth (CNAY) will Native youth ages 14-24 from across the United and Native storytelling, among other important welcome its eighth cohort of CNAY Champions States to be Champions for Change. Champions initiatives. for Change (Champions) to Washington, DC, are up-and-coming leaders with a desire to better “These inspiring young leaders are joining a in February. This marks the first convening of their communities. The Champions program is community and national network of other leaders the year-long leadership program. The 2020 a Native youth leadership initiative designed from across the country,” said Erik Stegman, Champions include Owen L. Oliver (Quinault to highlight positive stories impacting Indian executive director for CNAY. Aspen Institute/Facebook (Chinook) Indian Nation & Isleta Pueblo), Country through experience-based learning and The Champions will participate in a panel The Aspen Institute’s Center for Native American Youth’s 2020 Champions for Change. Jazmine Wildcat (Northern Arapaho), Warren tailored advocacy training. discussion Feb. 11 at The Aspen Institute. 2B • The Seminole Tribune • January 31, 2020 F AHFACHKEE Believe the HYPE From page 1A Harrison operated a single reflex digital camera, a Faro Focus laser scanner and four TPD launches new WEP training spheres – used as landmarks to orient the scene properly – to create the final interactive BY DAMON SCOTT about $8 an hour. 3D images. Staff Reporter “The worst thing you want to say to The process is a combination of laser a parent is: ‘I don’t have anything to do,’” scans and photogrammetry, which extracts Gilliam said with a smile. 3D measurements from 2D data such as You’re going to have to juggle some He’d leave home at 5 a.m. or 6 a.m. The photos and merges hundreds of those images acronyms with this one. day consisted of cleaning pens, dealing with together to create the 3D model. The photos The Tribe’s first professional pig slop and so on. It was dirty, but he said Harrison made of the murals overlap 70 to development training for those in its Work it built a work ethic that he still carries with 80 percent of the image to create the 3D Experience Program (WEP) took place Jan. him today. visualizations. 15. It was the first, but not the last. After graduating high school, Gilliam “The laser scanner is creating a WEP is a branch of Tribal Professional entered WEP, too. (CSSS also offers a visualization but it also captures the context Development (TPD) and generally consists Summer Work Experience Program – SWEP of the entire architectural environment,” of those who are just out of high school – for those still in high school). Harrison explained. “It will create more and contemplating the next steps of their Gilliam, 32, went on to earn a master’s details than the camera.” education and career. degree in business administration and The final images will be 3D models that The new training is based on the HYPE the viewer can manipulate in space and zoom entered the ACD program in 2017. Beverly Bidney program, which stands for “Helping Young “We come in all shapes and sizes. in or out. The option of a “fly through”, or People Excel.” a video of each image from various angles, Laura Harrison, of the University of South Florida, photographs the Seminole sun legend mural in the Through being a part of [ACD], it’s good for hallway of the Ahfachkee School. HYPE is described as an immersion community, it’s custom made and belongs to will also be available. curriculum with several parts. It was THPO also worked with Harrison and us,” Gilliam said. “This is our home. You’re created the same way as the Ahfachkee higher and lower – that, combined with presented to the WEP group by James here for a reason.” USF to create a 3D visualization of Egmont Randolph. The approximately five-hour Key, in which the site appears to have been murals. the laser scans, will create that fly-through Gilliam is currently the only Tribal “The 3D visualization of the fly through environment. training took place at the Native Learning member in Hollywood who is working in the photographed from above by a drone flying Center in Hollywood. over and through the site. The visualization shows one viewpoint of the data, which can Although details are not yet available, CSSS department. be viewed from any angle,” Harrison said. the digital collection of the murals will be Randolph was first contracted to work “[Working for the Tribe is] a family included images of the inside and outside with the Tribe in 2004. He uses the HYPE of the lighthouse. However, it was actually Harrison photographed every mural available online. business at the end of the day. We’re the from a few perspectives – eye level, program to help people “tell their story,” he next up at bat. We have a lot of opportunity said. in front of us,” he said. “Make sure you all “In-between you have some have what you need. Be encouraged. People opportunities to work together and are watching. Our goal is to be an example.” individually,” Randolph said. Gilliam’s sister, Tomasina Chupco- WEP participants went through a lineup Gilliam, is a project specialist at the Native of topics throughout the day – mastering first Learning Center and is also enrolled in ACD. and last impressions; working with others The Gilliam’s cousin, Aaron Tommie, works and handling conflicts. in the executive director of operations office There were role playing exercises to as part of ACD as well. improve communication skills and learn job interview techniques. Tribal support

‘We’re the next up’ Sitting in the training room at the NLC were those not only enrolled in WEP, but Before Randolph began the training, others who were there to support them. Tribal member Rollie Gilliam gave some Ervina Capricien, the head of Tribal opening remarks. Career Development (TCD), was on hand as Gilliam is enrolled in the Advanced was Jim Osceola, the director of hospitality Career Development (ACD) program and for the Seminole Gaming Administration works at the Center for Student Services and (SGA). Success (CSSS). There were plenty of CSSS staff, too, He spoke about his first job at about age including director Michael Giacchino, 10. He was raised in Fort Pierce, but would assistant director Alvaro Perez, student later live on the Brighton Reservation and success coach Kajir Harriott and TPD senior his family had him working with pigs for specialist Hurvens Monestime. Hurvens was the lead organizer of the new training. He’s been with the Tribe for about six months. “The reason why we brought you together was to give you the opportunity to meet as a group,” Hurvens said. “There aren’t many chances for us to work with each other – we’re spread out in different departments, reservations … there’s not a lot of interactions.” Hurvens said the day was designed Beverly Bidney (3) not only to socialize, but to learn and to Above, painted by Mary Gay Osceola in 1993, this large mural portrays all the clans in the Seminole Tribe of Florida and was on the wall in the Ahfachkee appreciate the opportunities offered in WEP. School’s library. Below left, the Seminole sun legend is depicted in this mural painted by Osceola in 1994. Below right, this series of poster sized murals “It’s not just [about] punching in and graced the walls of the cafeteria and were painted in 1994. out every day,” Hurvens said. “We are hoping you all become the future leaders of the Tribe, future managers and supervisors. That’s the objective and goal. This is for you – all of these various departments and resources. So take advantage of it.” The tentative dates for future HYPE trainings are Feb. 19, March 18, April 22 and May 20. Contact Hurvens at 954-989-6840 ext. Damon Scott 10537 or via email at hurvensmonestime@ Advanced Career Development participant Rollie semtribe.com. Gilliam speaks to students in the WEP program Jan. 15.

NLC to host accounting fundamentals for Native CDFIs TRIBUNE STAFF financial and technical assistance, along with specialized training. HOLLYWOOD — The Seminole “Accounting Fundamentals for Native Tribe’s Native Learning Center in Hollywood CDFI’s” takes place March 24-26 from 9 is hosting a course for those interested in a.m. to 4 p.m. working with Native CDFI’s – Community Organizers said the topics covered are Development Financial Institutions. geared toward those who work in finance or Native CDFIs are designed to help tribal accounting or for board members, executive communities grow and thrive by leveraging directors and others in management access to credit, capital and other financial positions. services. For more information and to register, go CDFI’s typically offer a variety of to nativelearningcenter.org. PECS Students of the Month - December BRIGHTON — The following Elementary Kaliyanita Hodge Karter Puente Eriyana McQueen Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School students Malayah Puenye Neveah Johns Augustana Banda Troy Billie earned Student of the Month honors for Nohea Collins Jeremy Smith Case Prescott December 2019: Kreed Snow Russell Osceola Braylen Thomas Middle School Charles Julian Levi Peacock Oddyssie Sheets Keanu Bert Zechariah Summeralls Zayden Pewo Jace Johns Maylan Foster Aaliyanice Castro Kowi Osceola Harmany Urbina Cece Thomas

PECS (2) Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School students of the month for December 2019 (elementary left, middle right) are joined by principal Tracy Downing. 3B • The Seminole Tribune • January 31, 2020 ‘Code Talkers’ tells uniquely Native story to young readers BY DAMON SCOTT code talkers transmitted more than 800 Staff Reporter indecipherable messages in 48 hours. One of the reasons it worked so well When people think of code talkers they is that Native languages were not written likely think of the Navajo in World War II. down; therefore, no one could steal or And that’s for good reason. study it. And the languages were complex – The U.S. Marine Corps recruited more Choctaw alone has 26 dialects. than 400 Navajo to be code talkers in 1941 To overcome nonexistent counterparts and 1942 during the war – the original group for certain English words, the code talkers numbered about 30. Their skill would also got creative. They would substitute “corn” be used in the Korean and Vietnam Wars as for “battalion” and “stone” for “grenade,” well. for example. But the Navajo weren’t the only ones Ironically, while it was the code and they weren’t the first. talkers that helped to end WWI and WWII, There were code talkers from at least many Native Americans were historically 16 tribes who served in the Marines, Army punished, especially in the late 19th century, and Navy. In addition to the Navajo, the list for speaking their native tongue. includes Seminole, Assiniboine, Cherokee, As code talkers they’d become heroes Choctaw, Comanche, Hopi, Lakota and for using it. Meskwaki. “Tales of the Mighty Code Talker” The Cherokee were the first code talkers takes the reader along with different Native in World War I and they paved the way for American characters who are going through those who came after, like the Choctaw varied scenarios during the wars. Courtesy image (WWI) and Navajo (WWII). The book is presented in a sleek, comic One section of the book tells the story of Annumpa Luma – the Choctaw code talkers. Their stories are a central focus of book-style that appeals to the younger set, the recently published book “Tales of the although adults would enjoy it as well. Mighty Code Talker.” The publication, by Two of the main characters are Annumpa (Navajo), Renee Nejo (Mesa Grande Band There is also a version of “Tales of the Reycraft Books, came out last year and is Luma, of the Choctaw code talkers, and PFC of Mission Indians), and Weshoyot Alvitre Mighty Code Talkers” by Native Realities designed for younger readers and students. Joe, who is Navajo. The first part of the book (Tongva). Press that has additional content and comics Courtesy image also tells about the Cherokee code talker’s Stephanie Seemann, the Florida that are intended for older readers. To the rescue All the writers and illustrators of the book are contribution to ending WWI. account manager of Reycraft developer Other Reycraft titles geared toward Native American. Benchmark Education, said she is interested a younger reader that also feature Native U.S. military codes on troop movement For more in growing its collection of books by Native American writers and illustrators include and the like were being breached by the American authors. “Spotted Tail” and “PowWow Mystery to the enemy. Wiley Blevins, the editorial director of Germans in WWI and by the Japanese in It was considered a key factor in many “It is our goal to have authentic Series 1.” WWII, causing causalities and chaos. Reycraft Books, said all of the writers and stories and illustrations [that] reflect the For more information, go to American military victories, including at illustrators of “Tales of the Mighty Code Code talkers developed an unbreakable Iwo Jima and Saipan. voices of children from underrepresented reycraftbooks.com. “Tales of the Mighty code language used to send information Talkers” are Native American. Contributors communities,” Seemann said. “My personal Code Talkers” can be purchased on Amazon. According to a congressional law are Lee Francis IV, Roy Boney Jr. (Cherokee), on tactics, movements and orders over the honoring the program, at Iwo Jima, goal is to have students everywhere be radio and telephone that was indecipherable Arigon Starr (Kickapoo), Jonathan Nelson introduced to stories from authentic voices.” Tribe well represented at South Florida Fair BY KEVIN JOHNSON South Florida Fair’s hog show in West Palm Senior Editor Beach. “Smalls” is anything but that; he is a 236-pound hog that Daum has cared for WEST PALM BEACH — Even since acquiring him in August, back when though he’s only a junior in high school, “Smalls” was only about 60 pounds. Braydn Daum already has a pretty good idea “Normally we get them at 75-pound about his future career. range, but he looked good to me so I picked He wants to join the Navy after he him,” Daum said. graduates and perhaps serve as a hospital The judge didn’t pick “Smalls” as high corpsman. as Daum would have liked; he finished in For now, the junior at Lake Placid seventh place in the 236-238-pound class High School is laying the foundation for that featured nine other competitors. his future by being a member of ROTC and “It went all right, but I didn’t place as the weightlifting team at school and the high as I wanted to, but nobody ever does. Seminole Indian 4-H Club outside of school. I’m happy I wasn’t last,” Daum said. The discipline and hard work necessary to Daum was part of the Seminole 4-H succeed in those programs will no doubt contingent at the show that included pay off when he enters the service. The volunteers, staff and other fellow 4-H’ers. 4-H program, for example, has benefits that Daum’s mother Linda Spurlock and Daum can carry with him whether he’s on stepfather John Spurlock helped guide the land or sea. hogs in proper directions in the back pens. “It’s taught me that you need to work Aaron Stam kept things running smoothly for what you have and nothing is going to and on schedule behind the scenes, making be handed to you, so you need to work hard sure kids and their hogs were in the ring and work towards it,” Daum said Jan. 17 with their classes at the right time. Kimberly moments after he showed “Smalls” at the Clement helped keep the peace amid snout-

Kevin Johnson (2) Members of the Seminole Indian 4-H Program participate in the South Florida Fair’s swine show Jan. 17 at the South Florida Fairgrounds in West Palm Beach. Above, Braydn Daum, and, at left, Atley Driggers, get ready to show their hogs.

to-snout rush hour traffic in the waiting pen “I feed him, wash him and put wormer doesn’t become emotionally attached to just before the kids and hogs entered the ring. around him to get any worms out,” he said. them, knowing that they move on to new Daum’s “Smalls” and Oreste Perez’s “Porky Perez’s pig finished fifth in the same owners during the fair. Pig” got a little too rough as they waited to class as “Smalls.” “I just like showing them,” she said. enter the ring and had to be briefly separated Atley Driggers, 12, had the heaviest The following day was the sale when by a board before it was showtime. hog among the three Seminole 4-H’ers at the hogs were put up for purchase. “Shakira” Perez, 10, is in his third year with the show. “Shakira,” a female, weighed in was bought by Brighton Board Rep. Helene Seminole Indian 4-H and has become at 265 pounds. Already in her fifth year of Buster. “Smalls” was purchased by Brighton accustomed to all the caretaking involved in 4-H, Driggers previously raised a hog that Councilman Larry Howard. Seminole raising a hog. weighed 270. She’s had about five pigs and Gaming snatched up “Porky Pig.”

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Contact your local Indian health care provider, visit healthcare.gov, or call 1-800-318-2596 Kevin Johnson Oreste Perez, 10, from the Seminole Indian 4-H Program, directs his hog while in the ring during the South Florida Fair. for more information. 4B • The Seminole Tribune • January 31, 2020 National Native American Veterans Pipeline projects still attract Memorial to be dedicated Nov. 11 wary Native American eyes

BEVERLY BIDNEY ceremony, concert and five days of musical Native and Native Hawaiian veterans. BY DAMON SCOTT by President Barack Obama, but in 2017 Staff Reporter performances and programs. The interactive memorial was designed Staff Reporter President Donald Trump signed an executive Native American veterans who want to by artist Harvey Pratt (Cheyenne and order to not only allow for its completion, but participate in the opening procession can Arapaho) of Oklahoma. The memorial also a long sought after cross-border permit. The dedication of the National Native register online. Those who want to perform consists of a large elevated stainless steel Four years after protests began at the While the KXL construction doesn’t American Veterans Memorial has been set for during the five-day event may apply at the circle balanced on a carved stone drum. It site of the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL), currently go directly through Native Nov. 11 at the Smithsonian National Museum performance link on the webpage. incorporates water for sacred ceremonies oil drilling and pipeline projects continue to American reservations, it has the potential to of the American Indian. The ceremony will Native Americans have served in every and benches for gathering and reflection. threaten Native American communities and pollute water supplies, part of the reason for take place on the grounds of the museum on branch of the U.S. Armed Forces since the For more information, visit the environment. a slew of lawsuits against it. the National Mall in Washington, D.C. American Revolution and in larger numbers americanindian.si.edu/nnavm/ or contact the DAPL is one of the most well-known, Keystone owner TC Energy is applying Organizers said the dedication will begin per capita than any other ethnic group. The museum by email at NNAVMDedication@ along with the Keystone Pipeline System. for permits to tap the Cheyenne River, White with a procession of Native veterans on the memorial, which was commissioned by si.edu or by phone at (202) 633-7020. DAPL’s underground oil pipeline is River, and Bad River, all of which run National Mall, followed by a dedication Congress, honors American Indian, Alaska 1,172 miles long and begins in northwest through South Dakota. North Dakota, winding through South Native Americans and Indigenous Dakota and Iowa to its end in Patoka, Illinois. Canadians are opposed to KXL for other The DAPL protests, which are widely reasons as well, including possible damage known by the hashtag #NoDAPL, were to sacred sites and contamination of locally grassroots movements that began in caught fish. early 2016 at the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation. Almost 500 protesters have Florida, too been arrested since. Oil has been flowing through DAPL While those particular projects might since the summer of 2017. seem a world away from Florida, there are Opposition to its continued construction also developments closer to home that tribes, and proposed expansion still attract environmentalists and activists are keeping considerable protest and public outcry. a close eye on – particularly in or near the In November 2019, Indigenous People Everglades. and environmentalists attended a public On Jan. 15, Gov. Ron DeSantis said the meeting in North Dakota on proposed DAPL state would buy land to stop an Everglades expansion that lasted more than 15 hours. oil drilling plan on 20,000 acres in western The Standing Rock Sioux Tribe Broward County. continues to intervene in plans for the Environmentalists and others are asking pipeline’s expansion and use near its lands the governor to stop another, likely bigger, and water sources. drilling plan about 25 miles west of that site The owners of DAPL want to double at the Big Cypress National Preserve on the the volume; even though critics worry it will northwest border of Everglades National further increase the risk of leaks or spills. Park. The Chicago Tribune reports that each The South Florida Sun Sentinel recently day an average of 560,000 barrels of oil reported that the entity – Burnett Oil Co. – flows through the pipeline. The proposed holds state and federal permits to look for increase would be 1.1 million barrels a day. oil on 110 square miles of the preserve using Native American leaders and activists heavy trucks that vibrate metal plates against want more information on why the increased the ground. oil flow is needed. Oil companies say the It wasn’t immediately clear if DeSantis project has economic benefits and is safe. will act on the request. Stakeholders on both sides of the In Washington, D.C., the House of issue expect legal wrangling to continue Representatives passed a bill in September indefinitely. 2019 to permanently ban offshore drilling Meanwhile, the Keystone Pipeline off Florida’s Gulf Coast. It was a move is located in both Canada and the U.S. It Florida lawmakers pressed for to help the runs from Alberta to refineries in Illinois keep the state’s tourism industry and military and Texas and also to oil tank farms and a installations healthy. distribution center in Cushing, Oklahoma. The Senate has a similar bill, but it’s NMAI Its fourth phase is commonly known as not known what the Trump administration A rendering of the National Native American Veterans Memorial. The design is by Harvey Pratt/Butzer Architects and Urbanism. The illustration is by Skyline Keystone XL (KXL) – which garnered fierce would support or sign into law. Ink. opposition from environmentalists and tribal More information on DAPL is at members for its potential to wreak havoc on standingrock.org. The National Resources the environment. Defense Council is involved in litigation AIANTA to highlight tribes along the In 2015, the original project was vetoed concerning the Keystone Pipeline. Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Fender Telecaster signed by FROM PRESS RELEASE Dakota, Nebraska and Kansas, to develop commenced their two-year journey, this 16 Navajo Code Talkers content and create regional itineraries program expands on the groundwork, that include Native and Tribally owned contributions and learnings from the Circle BY VIKI EAGLE destinations and experiences along the route. of Tribal Advisors of the Lewis and Clark ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — The Completed content will be showcased at Bicentennial Commemoration (2003-2006) Richard Anderson, Jr. took out his American Indian Alaska Native Tourism LewisAndClark.travel and NativeAmerica. and offers new opportunities for Tribes to original USA 1971 Fender Butterscotch Association (AIANTA) has partnered with travel. share their stories to visitors from around the Telecaster guitar at a coffee shop in Gallup, the National Park Service (NPS) to find and “We are excited to work with the globe through cultural tourism. New Mexico, and began to identify the 16 share the stories of Native American Tribes National Park Service to help Tribes along The Lewis & Clark Expedition signatures of The Navajo Code Talkers who that intersect with the Lewis and Clark the Lewis and Clark National Historic commenced in 1803, after the completion had signed his guitar over the years. National Historic Trail. Trail share their stories,” said Sherry L. of the Louisiana Purchase, to help the One by one Anderson started to spell out The 4,900-mile national historic trail, Rupert, Executive Director of AIANTA. U.S. Government map the uncharted west. the letters and match the names to the list of which stretches from the Ohio River in “Native Americans are often left out of the Led by Meriwether Lewis and William the 300 Navajo Code Talkers. Most of them Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to Astoria, Oregon, historical narrative, so we are thrilled that Clark, the expedition lasted two years and were signed from the 5th Division Marine crosses 16 states, as well as nearly two dozen NPS is looking to deliver a comprehensive encompassed nearly 8,000 miles, round trip. Corps veterans that served at the Battle Indian reservations. inventory of tribal activities and cultural Along the way, the expedition team met of Iwo Jima. 13 of the signatures could be Over a three-year period, AIANTA tourism experiences for visitors interested in nearly 50 Native American tribes, who were identified on the guitar and the other 3 names will conduct interviews with and make site traveling all or parts of the famed route.” integral in helping the expedition chart the were lost in the wear and tear of performing visits to Tribes in Washington, Oregon, More than 215 years after Lewis unknown territory. over the years. Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, South and Clark and their Corps of Discovery The first Fender Telecaster Guitar was made in 1950. Anderson says he asked for the signatures of the Code Talkers on a telecaster guitar was to bridge the understanding of Courtesy Indian Country Today Everglades area visitor center opens music history and the freedom of expression A Fender Buttscotch Telecaster guitar with after the war had ended. But to also connect signatures from 16 Navajo Code Talkers. FROM PRESS RELEASE Native heritage to the beauty and artist expressions through music. Prior to the Code Talker Guitar project, “The Code Talkers protected the freedom Anderson lived his young adult life in EVERGLADES CITY — The new for every artist and band in this country to Everglades Visitor Center has opened at 207 southern California where he attended the express music the way they want to sing it; Musicians Institute in Los Angeles and West Broadway in Everglades City. with no limits. Every band and every artist The center is also the Trail Town experienced the life of a musician in the era owes a “thank you” to the Code Talkers for of 80s hard rock and Heavy Metal. headquarters for the city which was that very freedom and for protecting our recognized in 2019 by the Florida’s Office Anderson remembers being the only music. No one thinks of music history in this Navajo student attending the school. After of Greenways & Trails as an important hub way. That is why this Code Talker guitar is for recreational activities, such as paddling, his tech training, with his group, ‘The Chucki such a sentimental instrument. Especially Begay Family Band,’ he took the Code Talker hiking and biking. with very few code talkers left.” The center is operated by the Everglades guitar to every state in the United States and “I thought a lot about music history. to a lot of reservations and music festivals to Society for Historic Preservation. For more The greatest musicians played the Telecaster information visit visitevergladescity.com or represent the Navajo Nation. like Muddy Waters, Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, When he came back home from stop in at the center any day from 9 a.m. to 4 Keith Richards and Jimmy Page,” said p.m. during the winter season. performing, his band started a music camp Anderson. on Navajo Nation to teach the youth to play Anderson was only five years old when instruments. he met his first Code Talker. His father “At one point we had 175 youths sign served in the Vietnam War and was friends up for our music camp. The students start with many of the Code Talkers. Growing up by learning the history and lessons from the Seminole Casino Hotel to host Native youth there was a lot of pride in the community for Code Talker guitar. Then they learn how veterans. His parents spoke highly of what to play their instruments from guitar, bass, hiring event Feb. 11 agriculture summit they did for this country and because of what keyboard or drums. I hope the future of this they did; the US was able to win the war. guitar will stay in Navajo Nation amongst to be held in July Anderson said the first signature was the the Four Sacred Mountains. Where it can FROM PRESS RELEASE South 1st Street, Immokalee, Fla. 34142. hardest one to get. “I asked Keith Little to sign be displayed in a museum to make sure it The 51,000-square-foot plus casino my guitar three times and he said no. During will never be sold and the lessons learned FROM PRESS RELEASE IMMOKALEE — Seminole Casino offers 1,400 slots and 38 live table games the movie premiere of the Windtalkers at the from this history will carry out to the next Hotel Immokalee will host a hiring event Seminole Casino Hotel’s nightlife is Gallup train station, the event planned to generation.” highlighted by the Zig Zag lounge, home of unveil the memorial statue dedicated to the Feb. 11 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 6-9 p.m. in The 2020 Native Youth in Food and “I will never sell it,” said Anderson. “I the Seminole Center. the Zig Zag Girlz, “where the party never Navajo Code Talker. I decided to ask again. was offered $50,000 dollars for it and I said ends” featuring nightly live entertainment Agriculture Leadership Summit is open to I remember walking towards Keith Little to Positions available include: American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native no.” • cash pperations and no last call, as well as the new Corner sign my guitar at the seats and there were The identified Code Talker signatures: Bar. Additional entertainment and events Hawaiian youth, ages 18-24 (including two other Navajo Code talkers sitting next • facilities recently graduated high school seniors), Don Akee, Samuel H. Begay, Roy • food & beverage are held at the Seminole Center, an indoor/ to him. Keith Little finally agreed to sign my Hawthorne, Samuel T. Holiday, Keith M. outdoor special event center featuring state- and will be held July 7-14 in Fayetteville, guitar but under two conditions. He told me, • hotel operations Arkansas, at the University of Arkansas. Little, George Alfred Moss, Alfred James • players club of-the-art sound and lighting system. The “You can never sell this guitar and you have Peaches, Richard Plummer (Korean War new Seminole Casino Hotel is the first For more information regarding to teach the kids how to play the guitar.” The • public space the summit application, contact Josiah Code Talker), Albert Smith, Samuel Tso, • security upscale hotel to open in or near Immokalee other two code talkers sitting next to him saw Samuel Sr. Tsosie, Joe Sr. Vandever, Robert and offers suites and deluxe guestrooms with Griffin at [email protected] or visit him sign it and they also agreed to sign it. • slot operations indigenousfoodandag.com. Walley, (two unknown due to wear and tear). • table games modern décor and features, plus amenities After getting the first signature from Candidates must submit an application including a swimming pool with private Keith, it made it easier asking the other Code Viki Eagle is from the Sicangu Lakota before the hiring event at www. cabanas, 24-hour fitness studio and free Wi- Talkers to sign the guitar. Nation from Denver, Colorado. She is gotoworkhappy.com. Candidates should Fi. “Throughout the years since 2002, I biracial Japanese/Lakota. She is currently also bring their resumes and employment For more information, call 800-218- went to different places and events where the a Ph.D. student on Tongva land at UCLA in authorization documents, and dress for 0007 or visit moreinparadise.com or Code Talkers would be at to ask them to sign Sociocultural Anthropology. Follow her on success. facebook.com/SeminoleCasinoHotel/. it. I would explain the conditions and tell social media @RealLifeIndian. This article Seminole Casino Hotel is located at 506 them that I would never sell it and I use this appeared on Indian Country Today. guitar to teach the kids how to play.” 5B • The Seminole Tribune •January 31, 2020 Professor, researcher honored for work to improve health of Native Americans FROM NORTHERN ARIZONA UNIVERSITY NEWS “I once heard someone say, ‘Research is supposed to be culturally neutral, but someone’s culture is always influencing FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — Naomi it,’” Lee said. “As a Native researcher, it is Lee, an assistant professor of chemistry my duty to serve my community in order and biochemistry at Northern Arizona to ensure ethical and relevant research is University, received the email the night conducted.” before she gave a lecture to the Maximizing Trained in chemistry, biochemistry, Access to Research Careers students at Fort virology, molecular biology, ethics, Lewis College in Durango, Colorado. It was epidemiology and public health, her perfect timing—giving her a new sense of laboratory is student-focused with students purpose to motivate the students she met the coming from all disciplines and representing following day. diverse backgrounds, ethnicity and gender. For the past 18 years, Diverse: Issues She also is designing culturally relevant In Higher Education has recognized an chemistry curriculum to engage early Native interdisciplinary group of minority scholars American and other underrepresented who represent the best of the U.S. academy. scholars in addition to developing research This year is no exception. training programs aimed at reducing the “On a daily basis, Dr. Lee is breaking attrition rates in high school and college. down biases and stereotypes, transforming Lee’s research focuses on novel vaccine the views and potential of students,” Provost development. She also focuses her work Diane Stearns writes in her nomination letter on improving the health care of Indigenous — the nomination that would earn Lee the populations through health disparities much-deserved honor of the 2020 Emerging research and STEM education. Scholars Award. “Scientifically, I aim to be the first Selected based on research, educational Native researcher that designs a vaccine background, publishing record, teaching specifically for Native communities,” she record, competitiveness of field of study said. “While my work may be beneficial to and uniqueness of field of study, Lee is the general population, I strive to look at one of 15, hand-picked from hundreds of Hard Rock research questions through an Indigenous nominations, joining the 2020 cohort of lens. For example, I am collaborating with Hard Rock Atlantic City team members who won cash and prizes during a town hall meeting Jan. 16 are joined by leadership including Seminole Tribe Emerging Scholars. These professors have colleagues at the University of New Mexico Chairman Marcellus W. Osceola Jr. and Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming CEO Jim Allen. distinguished themselves in their various on a vaccine against opioids. We see the academic disciplines and have had broad impact the opioid epidemic is having on a impact in their universities and beyond. national level. However, my interest in the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City announces “I didn’t even know I was nominated,” project was because of the impact opioids Lee said. “In fact, I almost ignored the email are having across our Native American employee bonuses during town hall gathering since I thought it might be spam. However, communities. I want to use my skills to make once I read it, I was completely shocked and healthier and happier communities.” honored.” Throughout her career, Lee has been FROM PRESS RELEASE will be awarded to all union and non-union team members and their hard work during Gabe Montaño, professor and published multiple times, including a study full-time team members. the last 18 months Hard Rock Atlantic City department chair in the Applied Physics and in the Journal of Infectious Diseases of Seminole Tribe of Florida Chairman has been open,” Allen said. “Today is about Materials Science department, spearheaded the Oxford University Press that found Marcellus W. Osceola Jr., Hard Rock Atlantic you. We are committed to the future of this Lee’s nomination, and Stearns submitted the American Indian and Alaska Native women ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. — Hard Rock City Partners Joe and Michael Jingoli and property and we hope that together we can Hotel & Casino Atlantic City announced Jan. letter, highlighting her accomplishments and are at greater risk of HPV and cervical Hard Rock Atlantic City President Joe continue to work hard in providing the best the impact she has on the university, NAU cancer than their white counterparts; given 16 that 2,872 of its full-time team members Lupo stood alongside of Allen addressing possible service for guests visiting our resort will receive a bonus following the company’s students, fellow faculty and surrounding nearly two dozen talks and presentations; more than 2,000 team members and union destination.” communities. and has received more than $800,000 in successful first year in operation, ranking representatives from Unite Here Local 54, After an initial investment of more than No. 2 in the market for casino revenue. Of Native American descent, Lee, who research funding. She also is active duty in Local 68 Operating Engineers, Carpenters half a billion dollars prior to opening, Hard was highly recruited by several prestigious the National Guard with multiple awards to Chairman of Hard Rock International Union and Painters District Council 711 Rock Atlantic City plans to reinvest over and CEO of Seminole Gaming Jim Allen institutions in 2018, chose NAU because her name, including the Army Achievement during two town hall events. $15 million in additional capital for 2020 to of its diversity and the opportunity the Medal. addressed team members inside Hard Rock This is the first time in more than a renovate meeting and convention spaces to Live at Etess Arena for the property’s first university provided to have the greatest “As a Native American female scientist decade that any casino in Atlantic City further elevate the guest experience. impact on Native American students. One of and a highly decorated Army captain who “All is One” themed team member town hall has allocated bonuses to all full-time team Additional town hall highlights included meeting since opening June 28, 2018. the NAU’s five strategic goals is to become devotes her time to advancing opportunities members, union included. In addition to the a snapshot of Hard Rock Atlantic City’s the nation’s leading university serving Native for all students, particularly underrepresented To reinforce the company core- bonus announcement, leadership presented community efforts, market positioning motto “All Is One,” Allen emphasized Americans; currently, more than 1,500 minorities in STEM, Dr. Lee is outstanding $40,000 in cash along with six all-expenses and an overall brand update highlighting Indigenous students from more than 115 and truly deserving of this award,” Stearns the leadership’s commitment to property paid travel experiences to the new Guitar the domestic and global hotel, casino and reinvestment, Atlantic City and team tribal nations throughout the country attend. said. Hotel at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & restaurant pipeline. Lee’s dedication to Native Americans—both Lee was recognized in the Jan. 23 members, announcing over $2 million in Casino Hollywood. bonuses, starting at $250 per person, which in research and mentoring—will only help Emerging Scholars edition of Diverse: Issues “We could not be more proud of our the university further that mission. In Higher Education. Food that has ‘sustained for generations’

BY VINCENT SCHILLING Athabaskan, who hails from Seattle. Luther also wrote, “I know there Indian Country Today Luther received acclaim for his is youth out there in Native country 2007 documentary “Miss Navajo,” that will see this and look at Brian, based on Navajo contestants vying Hillel, and Kala as inspiration.” Award-winning documentary for the Miss Navajo Nation pageant Here are the “alter-NATIVE: filmmaker Billy Luther (Diné) has crown. The first part of his “alter- Kitchen” episodes: recently released the latest in his Native” series in 2018 featured - How This Navajo Chef Brings alter-Native YouTube docuseries designer Bethany Yellowtail, Crow. His Native Food Traditions Back titled “alter-Native: Kitchen.” It Luther expressed to Indian Country - What Native Elders Think features three Indigenous chefs “all Today in an email his thoughts on About Indigenous Cooking preparing foods from their Native “alter-Native: Kitchen.” - Why This Young Hawaiian cultures that have sustained their “Making this series was one Chef Still Cooks Underground FRIDAY & SATURDAY SUNDAY communities for generations.” of the best experiences I’ve had. - Are There Too Many Cooks In The three Indigenous chefs Traveling with each of the chefs This Hawaiian Kitchen? featured in the series are Brian really helped me understand where - What Is “Pre-Colonial” Yazzie, a Diné chef from Arizona they were coming from,” wrote Cooking? who now resides in Minnesota, Luther. “I loved watching them - What a Six Course, Gourmet Hawaiian culinary student Kalā tell their stories about choices on Native American Meal Looks Like. Domingo, and the chef and caterer ingredients and connections to their Hillel Echo-Hawk, Pawnee- communities.” Dugout canoes part of Ocala exhibit

FROM PRESS RELEASE such as stone tool making, pottery On the same weekend, the and ceramic arts, dugout canoe museum will open a new display carving, bone and shell carving, bow hall featuring the exhibit Dugout OCALA — The 10th annual and arrow making, traditional hide Canoes: Paddling Through the Silver River Knap-In and Prehistoric tanning and more. Other vendors Americas for the first time. The Arts festival will be held Feb. 15- bring crafts and food for sale. There exhibit highlights Native American 16 at the Silver River Museum in are ongoing museum programs, canoes from North and South Ocala. presentations by professional America (with an emphasis on This unique event features archaeologists, prehistoric artifact Florida). The exhibit was produced artists from across the United States displays and tram rides through the by the Florida Museum at the who demonstrate prehistoric arts Silver Springs State Park. University of Florida. RichaRd Join us for the... FRIDAY SENIORS . castillo ­. A TICKET WITH ID DAILY ADMISSION SUNDAY 954.522.3500 VETERANS DAY SUNDAY . A TICKET WITH ID helping the seminole community FEBRUARY 
For Many Years AUTHENTIC INDIAN FOOD, SNAKE SHOW, NATIVE DANCERS, ALLIGATOR WRESTLING, 24 houRs a daY AMERICAN INDIAN ARTS & CRAFTS. 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 MEKO & PEWO ELIZABETH COOK Broward County from 1990-1996 and has been in IN CONCERT FRIDAY IN CONCERT SATURDAY private practice since 1996. In 1995, he was voted RIchaRD caStIllo the Trial Attorney of the year. He graduated from BRIGHTONFIELDDAY.COM FOR MORE INFO: FSRA    FloRIDa cRIMInal DeFenSe attoURney Capital University in 1989 and was admitted to the FRED SMITH RODEO ARENA BRIGHTON SEMINOLE INDIAN RESERVATION:  SPORTS COMPLEX ROAD NE, OKEECHOBEE, FL  Florida Bar in 1990, Federal Bar in 1992, and the Fed- www.caStIllolawoFFIceS.coM eral Trial Bar in 1994. 6B • The Seminole Tribune • January 31, 2020 Comedian Terry Fator scheduled for Seminole Mike Tyson’s one-man show coming to Hard Rock Tampa Casino Coconut Creek in FROM PRESS RELEASE which also aired as an HBO special. After April a successful run at the MGM Grand’s FROM PRESS RELEASE Hollywood Theater, the show debuted on TAMPA – Former world heavyweight Broadway under director Spike Lee in 2012. COCONUT CREEK — Comedian boxing champion Mike Tyson will bring Tyson’s career in entertainment spans Terry Fator will perform in The Pavilion at his Broadway one-man show “Mike Tyson everything from blockbuster movies “The Seminole Casino Coconut Creek on April 11 Undisputed Truth - Round 2” to the Hard Hangover” and “The Hangover 2”, to at 8 p.m. Rock Event Center at Seminole Hard Rock documentaries. In 2015, Tyson worked Tickets priced at $40/$50/$60 per person Hotel & Casino Tampa on April 3 at 8 p.m. with director Bert Marcus on a star-studded can be purchased via Ticketmaster locations, Picking up where “Undisputed Truth” left documentary “Champs” that examines lives online at Ticketmaster.com, or by calling off, “Round 2” will be an unapologetic look in and out of the ring of the boxing greats. 800-653-8000. at the ups and down of his post-boxing life In recent years Tyson has starred alongside Fator became a household name in 2007 and career. Donnie Yen in “Ip Man 3” and he appeared when he won Season 2 of “America’s Got “Undisputed Truth” is the raw, no-holds in the “Meet The Blacks,” “A Madea Family Talent”. barred life story of Tyson. In the show, he Funeral,” “Kickboxer Retaliation” and more. After 25 years of honing his skills he unveils never-before-told stories, peeling Tyson is also making a major name for made it on Forbes’ list of the top-earning. back layers of tragedy and public turmoil himself in television. He not only starred in His award-winning show, “Terry Fator: while unfolding his tale of triumph and his own docu-series on FOX Sports 1, “Being The Voice of Entertainment,” has been survival. In an up-close-and-personal setting Mike Tyson” in the Fall of 2013—his most running since 2009 at The Mirage Hotel & featuring images, music and video, Tyson recent project, a Warner Brothers animated Casino in Las Vegas. shares the stories of his life and experiences series, “Mike Tyson Mysteries” which airs In 2019, he launched the Terry Fator as a professional athlete and controversies in on Adult Swim, recently completed its four- Foundation, which supports various charities and out of the ring. year run. throughout the year. During the past few years, Tyson has Tickets are on sale at Ticketmaster.com Tribune file photo been touring nationally and internationally and at Seminole Hard Rock Tampa’s Rock Mike Tyson, seated second from right, sits with other boxing greats at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel Shawn Wayans headlines with “Mike Tyson: Undisputed Truth,” Shop store. & Casino Hollywood in 2015. February’s star-studded line up at The Comedy Club Mike DelGuidice & Big Shot to perform the FROM PRESS RELEASE Havasi announces first American music of Billy Joel in Coconut Creek HOLLYWOOD — Actor, writer, symphonic concert show in March producer and comedian Shawn Wayans will FROM PRESS RELEASE FROM PRESS RELEASE perform live on Feb. 21 to Feb. 23. Joining to Gilles Papain, video light designer & Wayans is Steve Rannazzisi who will be production manager of Cirque du Soleil, headlining the Big Game weekend Jan. 30 COCONUT CREEK — Mike HOLLYWOOD — The Havasi the Marseilles Opera, and Ballet de Monte to Feb. 1, Harland Williams Feb. 5 to Feb. 8, DelGuidice & Big Shot will celebrate Symphonic Concert Show will make its Carlo. The collaboration has resulted in the Carlos Mencia Feb. 13 to Feb. 16 and Steve the music of Billy Joel in The Pavilion at North American debut at Hard Rock Live, Havasi Symphonic Concert Show. Treviño Feb. 27 to March 1. Seminole Casino Coconut Creek on March Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino “The show is intended to provide different Tickets are on sale now. Guests at The 11 at 8 p.m. Hollywood, on March 21 at 8 p.m. moods for the audience in a memorably Comedy Club must be at least 18 years of Tickets priced at $20/$25/$30 per Classically trained virtuoso pianist intense experience, like a thrilling ride on a age. For more information or to purchase person can be purchased via Ticketmaster Havasi has performed in the Wiener rollercoaster.” said Havasi, “And the all new tickets, please visit www.hrcomedyclub. locations, online at Ticketmaster.com, or Stadhalle in Vienna, the Sydney Opera Hard Rock Live, with its great sightlines and com. by calling 800-653-8000. DelGuidice, best House, the Wembley Arena in London and state-of-the-art acoustics, is the ideal venue Shawn Wayans made his acting debut known as rhythm guitarist and vocalist in the Mercedes-Benz arena in Berlin, among for both our performers and for the audience. in Keenen Ivory Wayans’ film, “I’m Gonna Joel’s band, will be taking the stage with Big others. I’m really looking forward.” Get You Sucka” in 1988. Following Wayans’ Shot, which has been playing Joel’s music Havasi has been documented by The program will feature 100% original debut, he joined the cast of “In Living Color” for almost two decades. Guinness World Records as the Fastest composed works by Havasi. and later began co-writing a string of movies In October of 2013, Joel hired him to Pianist in the World. “We were inspired by this extraordinary including the horror spoofs, “Scary Movie” join his band. “I was most definitely a student of the talent,” says S. R. Tommie, Founder and and “Scary Movie 2.” Big Shot also performs renditions of classical realm of music,” said Havasi, “But I President of Redline Media Group. “Through Steve Rannazzisi is known for starring songs by Elton John, Paul McCartney, the wanted to bring new audiences to the concert this collaboration with Havasi and Redline and writing for the critically acclaimed FX Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Chicago and others. halls and bring classical instruments into Media Group, our goal remains delivering an Network comedy series, “The League.” His DelGuidice, who hails from Long mainstream entertainment. We wanted a unrivaled musical experience across North standup has appeared on Comedy Central’s Island, New York, is the author of two spectacle for the ears, the eyes, and the mind America with the Symphonic Concert Show “Premium Blend” and the standup special albums – “My Street” and “Miller Place.” to transport audiences through a musical for many years to come.” “Pauly Shore & Friends.” For more information about DelGuidice, journey. That’s why the collaboration with Tickets cost $229, $189, $159, $129 Comedian and actor Harland Williams please visit his social media pages (Facebook: Brian and Gilles was so important.” and $89. All seats are reserved. Tickets are is known for his movie roles, stand up https://www.facebook.com/billyjoeltribute/; Creative director Brian Burke, has available at www.myhrl.com. Doors open Twitter: @MikeDelguidice1; and Instagram: worked with artists such as Céline Dione, and sketch comedy routines. Williams has Courtesy photo one hour prior to show time. Additional fees starred in roles in films such as “Dumb and @billyjoelbandmembermikedel) or his IL Divo, and on America’s Got Talent, and may apply. Dumber,” “Something about Mary” and website at www.michaeldelguidice.com. Mike DelGuidice & Big Shot more. Carlos Mencia found success on the L.A Southside Johnny and The Asbury Jukes to perform comedy circuit and was named “International at Seminole Casino Coconut Creek in March Comedy Grand Champion” from Buscando Seminole Casino Hotel to host free Estrellas (the Latino version of Star Search). FROM PRESS RELEASE Last October, Southside Johnny was Mencia starred in his own show “Mind Immokalee Bluegrass Festival in March inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame of Mencia” on Comedy Central and has COCONUT CREEK — Southside by rocker Jon Bon Jovi, who toured with The featured in the films “The Heartbreak Kid” FROM PRESS RELEASE Johnny & The Asbury Jukes will take the Asbury Jukes as a special guest in 1990. and “Our Family Wedding.” stage in The Pavilion at Seminole Casino Steve Treviño has made appearances on IMMOKALEE — Gator Country Coconut Creek on March 15 at 7 p.m. “The Late Late Show,” “Comics Unleashed” 101.9 FM will present the first Immokalee Tickets priced at $25/$35/$45 can be and “BET Comic View.” He also wrote on Bluegrass Festival at Seminole Casino Hotel purchased via Ticketmaster locations, online “Mind of Mencia,” and produced and wrote Immokalee on March 14 starting at 11 a.m. at Ticketmaster.com, or by calling 800-653- on rapper Pitbull’s “La Esquina.” Treviño’s The free festival will feature six outdoor 8000. standup specials include “Grandpa Joe’s concerts with two concerts in the Zig Zag Led by Southside Johnny, the group has Son,” “Relatable” and “‘Til Death, Treviño.” Lounge after the festival concludes, as well long been associated with the Jersey Shore as a vendor section and a variety of arts and sound, along with Bruce Springsteen. Seminole Hard Rock food trucks. Admission is free, and attendees The Asbury Jukes have more than 30 should bring their own chairs for concert albums on their resume, thousands of live announces partnership viewing. For more information, visit www. performances and a legacy of classic songs. Immokaleebluegrass.com. Among their many hits include “I Don’t’ with distinguished The lineup for the Immokalee Bluegrass Want To Go Home,” “Love On The Wrong Nederlander Worldwide Festival includes: Side of Town,” “The Fever,” “This Time It’s • Nitty Gritty Dirt Band: The Nitty For Real,” “Talk To Me,” and the cover of Entertainment Gritty Dirt Band remains one of the most “We’re Having A Party.” FROM PRESS RELEASE accomplished bands in American roots In 2015, the group released its first music. The band played their first gig in album in five years called Soultime. The Courtesy Photo Courtesy Photo HOLLYWOOD — Seminole Hard 1966 in Southern California and by 1969 had album celebrated the transformative power Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood announced become a cornerstone of the country-rock Del McCoury & David Grisman of 1970s soul music and garnered positive Jan. 14 a partnership with Nederlander community. Their career breakthrough came reviews. Worldwide Entertainment to bring Broadway with the 1970 release of the record “Uncle theater to Hollywood and the new Hard Rock Charlie & His Dog Teddy” and the single An intimate evening with Charlie Sheen Live entertainment venue. “Mr. Bojangles,” a folksy Top 10 pop hit that The first production, slated for an April remains a staple of their live show. The three- at Seminole Casino Coconut Creek Feb. 15 7–19 run, is Jim Steinman’s “Bat Out of Hell disc album “Will the Circle Be Unbroken” – The Musical,” which includes the anthems brought Nitty Gritty Dirt Band together with FROM PRESS RELEASE to become a part owner of Don Sueños of Jim Steinman and Meat Loaf from the best- a number of country, folk, and bluegrass because I know their tequila is of the highest selling “Bat Out of Hell” albums, including legends. Heroes like Roy Acuff, Mother COCONUT CREEK — Actor Charlie quality,” Sheen said. “I’m excited to be the songs “You Took The Words Right Out Maybelle Carter, Jimmy Martin, Merle Sheen will hold a questions and answers able to work with Kumiko and the team to Of My Mouth,” “Bat Out Of Hell,” “I Would Travis, and Doc Watson joined the band to event Feb.at The Pavilion at Seminole help Don Sueños continue to grow and to Do Anything For Love (But I Won’t Do record country music standards such as “I Saw Casino Coconut Creek on Feb. 15 at 8 p.m. bring awareness, both to its outstanding That)” and “Two Out Of Three Ain’t Bad,” the Light” and “Keep on the Sunnyside.” The The moderator for the evening will be products and to the charitable organizations as well as two previously unreleased songs, project is considered a landmark recording in Lynn Martinez from Deco Drive, WSVN 7. it supports.” “What Part of My Body Hurts the Most” and American music. The band’s hits also include Guests Sheen “Not Allowed to Love.” “An American Dream,” “Long Hard Road must be invited has appeared Ticket prices range from $39–$109 (The Sharecropper’s Dream),” “Modern Day or may enter to in a number Monday through Thursday and $49–$129 Romance,” and “Fishin’ in the Dark.” win two tickets of films Friday through Sunday. Tickets are available • Yonder Mountain String Band: plus a signed including at www.myhrl.com. Doors open one hour Yonder Mountain String Band’s first album in bottle of Don “Platoon” prior to show time. two years, “Love. Ain’t Love” is undeniably Courtesy Photo Sueños Tequila (1986), “Bat Out of Hell – The Musical” won the the Colorado-based progressive bluegrass Del McCoury & David Grisman and a “Meet “Wall Street” Radio 2 Audience Award for Best Musical outfit’s most surprising, creative, and & Greet” with (1987), at the Evening Standard Awards and was energetic studio excursion to date. Songs like • The Barefoot Movement: Heralded Charlie Sheen “Young nominated for eight WhatsOnStage Awards, “Chasing My Tail” and “Alison” are rooted by CMT Edge as “one of the most promising by submitting Guns” including Best New Musical. in tradition has made Yonder one of the most bands on the bluegrass scene. With two full- a completed (1988), The tour of “Bat Out Of Hell – The popular live bands of their generation. length albums, an EP of traditional music, entry form at “Eight Men Musical” is produced by David Sonenberg, • Del McCoury and David Grisman: several cross-country tours, and appearances CasinoCoco. Out” (1988), Michael Cohl and Tony Smith, with executive Del + Dawg: Del McCoury and David at some of the top bluegrass festivals in com through “Major producer Julian Stoneman. Grisman met at the first show Del ever played the United States, the group received a Feb. 9. League” “Music is center stage to the Hard Rock (on banjo) with Bill Monroe in the spring of Momentum Award in 2014, naming them Sheen (1989), “Hot brand and we are honored to collaborate 1963 at New York University in Greenwich “Band of the Year” by the International will make Shots!” with Nederlander Worldwide Entertainment Village. In 2012 they released “Hardcore Bluegrass Music Association. appearances (1991), and Group to bring Broadway to Hollywood,” Bluegrass,” a unique collection of bluegrass • The South Carolina Broadcasters: throughout the “The Three said Chairman of Hard Rock International classics. David and Ivy Sheppard and Sarah Osborne casino’s Don Musketeers” and CEO of Seminole Gaming Jim Allen. • Balsam Range: The 2018 both North Carolina natives, were living in Sueños Tequila (1993). “Each selected production pays tribute to International Bluegrass Music Association’s Charleston when they started the project Giveaway H e music and legends, and we can’t wait to see Entertainer of the Year, Balsam Range has about five years ago. They met Osborne, who taking place starred in these stellar casts light up the new Hard Rock become one of the genre’s most award- grew up between Saxapahaw and Graham, that day at the “Two and a Live stage.” winning acts. The group has garnered at a show in Kernersville in 2012, and she Player’s Club Half Men” “We are proud to partner with such 13 IBMA awards and made multiple quickly joined. The group alternates between Xperience which earned Courtesy Photo a global entertainment brand, Hard Rock appearances at the Grand Ole Opry. The mountain gospel barnstormers and tradition- from 12 p.m. him several International, and Seminole Hard Rock band collaborated with the Atlanta Pops tinged ballads of their own construction. to 10 p.m. Charlie Sheen Golden Hotel & Casino Hollywood,” said Robert Orchestra Ensemble to record 2 albums. Sheen is Globe and Nederlander Jr., Nederlander Worldwide Three singles from the album reached #1 on the co-owner of Don Sueños Tequila along Emmy Award nominations. Entertainment President and CEO. the Bluegrass Today Chart, including “Blue with Kumiko Zimmerman. He most recently starred in the FX “Nederlander Worldwide Entertainment Collar Dreams.” The band most recently “While I am proud of my sobriety for comedy series “Anger Management,” which looks forward to bringing these fan-favorite claimed the #1 radio chart spot with the over two years now and am firmly committed concluded its 100-episode run in 2014. shows to this impressive performance space single “The Girl Who Invented The Wheel.” to living a clean and sober lifestyle, I chose in 2020 and beyond.” 1C • The Seminole Tribune • January 31, 2020 Sports C Ahfachkee girls enjoying successful season

BY KEVIN JOHNSON Senior Editor

BIG CYPRESS — With four wins in its first six games, the Ahfachkee School girls basketball team has had plenty of reasons to celebrate this season. But Ahfachkee’s upbeat attitude goes beyond just the scores. First-year head coach Jarvis Jones said the team brings an energetic and unselfish approach that he loves. “I like that everybody supports each

Kevin Johnson The Ahfachkee School girls basketball team, with new head coach Jarvis Jones at right, gets fired up before facing Moore Haven High School on Jan. 23 in Big Cypress.

other whether they get a lot of playing squad on Jan. 23 at the Herman L. Osceola made by Tahnia Billie, who is one of three of the best players I’ve ever worked with. time or they barely get any playing time, Gymnasium. sixth-graders on the squad. She works hard. She’s a straight-A student everybody is supportive,” Jones said. “If “Everybody came out for senior night. Stockton is the team’s leading scorer which is the best thing I like about her. She’s you look at the bench when a shot goes in There’s a lot of support, not just from this season. She has been a powerful force a student first, great in the classroom, great everyone is cheering. When a stop is made, the basketball team, but from the whole at both ends of the court this with her with her siblings, great with her teammates. everybody is cheering. There’s not one community,” Jones said. rebounding and scoring touch from inside She’s awesome.” selfish player on this team. For me, being The seniors did their part in the 51-25 and outside and demonstrated plenty of But Ahfachkee has depth this year, around basketball for a long time, that’s a victory. Stockton poured in a game-high skill in passing. She’s attracted interest from something the team has lacked in recent first for me.” 15 points, which included three 3-pionters. colleges, including Florida SouthWestern seasons. Sophomore Carlise Bermudez and Kevin Johnson The players were especially thrilled to Gopher had six points on a pair of 3-pointers State University in Fort Myers. freshman Makayla Torres carry a lot of ball- Ahfachkee senior Alena Stockton lines up a cap senior night for Destiny Cypress, Leilani and Cypress scored two points. The biggest “Florida Southwestern came to the game 3-pointer against Highlands Christian on Jan. 14 Gopher and Alena Stockton with a win cheers of the night from the Ahfachkee today. I think they liked what they saw,” F See AHFACHKEE on page 6C in West Palm Beach. against a young Moore Haven High School bench and the crowd came on three baskets Jones said. “She’s a really solid player. One Mr. 300: Arek Jumper bowls perfect game

BY KEVIN JOHNSON leagues at least four nights a week. people started watching him. “It was a good shot. I threw it all the To honor the perfect game, Hollywood Senior Editor Until Nov. 19, 2019, he had never “Everybody was cheering for me,” said way out, it came back and struck,” he said. Recreation site manager Joe Collins put up reached the pinnacle of every bowler’s Jumper, who used a Storm ball. Jumper said the evening was made even a display in a glass trophy case in the lobby desire: a 300 game. The closest he came He remained focused with each passing more special because he hit the magical mark of the Howard Tiger Recreation Center. The HOLLYWOOD — Arek Jumper has was 299. But everything changed on that frame. while playing on a team with his grandfather display features the scoresheet from the 300 been bowling for nearly as long as he has November night at Sparez in Davie. “I had all strikes. I was like, ‘You just David Jumper and his uncle Randy Jackson. game, a ‘300 Game Award’ bowling pin and been walking. Bowling in the Cosmopolitan Mixed got to finish it out and get your 300.’” The 300-game came after Arek Jumper a photo of Jumper with the pin. The 20-year old, who grew up on the League, Jumper rolled a perfect 300. As he His final strike was clean as he showed started the night with a 168 followed by a Hollywood Reservation, bowls in area drew closer to that magical number, more he could handle the pressure. 227.

Kevin Johnson Kevin Johnson Arek Jumper, 20, stands next to the display that honors his perfect 300 game that he bowled on Nov. 19, 2019. The display is in the lobby of the Howard This is the scoresheet from Arek Jumper’s 300 game. Tiger Recreation Center in Hollywood. 2C • The Seminole Tribune • January 31, 2020

Courtesy photo Courtesy photo The Chobee Volleyball Academy (CVA) 12U travel team at the AAU Chill Blast Super Regional in Orlando, where they finished in The Chobee Volleyball Academy (CVA) 12U travel team at Volleyfest 1 in Deerfield Beach. Top row, from left: Coach Monica first place in Gold. Top row, from left: Coach Nessie Koger, Kashyra Urbina, Kamryn Hackett, Yani Smith, Alyssa Madrigal, Tatiana Koger, Yani Smith, Kamryn Hackett, Alyssa Madrigal and Kashyra Urbina. Bottom row, from left: Dally Exposito, Adleigh Flores and Coach Monica Koger. Bottom row, from left: Dally Exposito, Adleigh Schwier, Jenessa Arana, Savannah McCoy and Schwier, Jenessa Arana, Savannah McCoy and Tatiana Flores. Lindy Harwas. Impressive start for Chobee Volleyball Academy 12U team

BY TRIBUNE STAFF tournament season in 2020. at the AAU Chill Blast Super Regional in Resort and the Orange County Convention they finished 21st out of 40 teams from CVA won five of six games and took Orlando. They secured their free entry to Center. around the country and Puerto Rico. This The Chobee Volleyball Academy (CVA) second place at Volleyfest 1 held Jan. 18-19 the 2020 47th AAU Girls Junior National Most of the players, including Yani, was held at ESPN Wide World of Sports 12U travel team, which includes Brighton at DS Sports Plex in Deerfield Beach. Volleyball Championships that will be Alyssa and Kashyra, played in the 2019 Complex at the Walt Disney World Resort Seminoles Yani Smith, Alyssa Madrigal and On Jan. 25-26, CVA went undefeated held this summer at the ESPN Wide World AAU Girls’ Junior National Volleyball and the Orange County Convention Center. Kashyra Urbina, is off to a good start in the with five wins and took first place in Gold of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Championships in the 11U division where South Dakota track & field standout Tyler Hiatt signs with North Dakota State University

BY KEVIN JOHNSON year. Senior Editor Hiatt, a 6-foot-3, 270-pound senior with a 3.60 grade point average at Lincoln, comes from an athletic family. His mom – Stephanie (Editor’s note: Tyler Hiatt is the son of Bowers Hiatt – starred on the volleyball Stephanie and Jon Hiatt. Tyler Hiatt is the court at the University of Sioux Falls, where grandson of Stephen D. Bowers, Director she is in the Hall of Fame. Tyler’s dad Jon of Office of Veteran Affairs for the Seminole Hiatt played soccer in college, and younger Tribe). siblings Caleb (basketball and tennis) and Lucas (golf and tennis) are active on courts 2019 turned out to be a pretty good year and courses. for Tyler Hiatt. “I’ve got a pretty good athletic In the spring, he helped lead the track background,” Tyler Hiatt said about his and field team at Lincoln High School to a family, which was by his side when he put state championship while winning individual pen to paper during a signing ceremony at state titles in shot put and discus. Lincoln. He also has proud grandparents In the summer, he was named South back east, Stephen and Elizabeth Bowers Dakota’s Gatorade Track and Field Athlete from the Hollywood Reservation. of the Year. “They’re super happy for me,” Hiatt In the fall, he was a part of a huge said. turnaround for the football team as it went Hiatt had plenty of college offers. 8-2 a year after being 2-8. In addition to NDSU, schools that were In the winter, Hiatt capped off the interested in him included Baylor, Idaho, memorable year by signing a letter of intent Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska and South with North Dakota State University, where Dakota. He narrowed his choices to NDSU, he’ll join the track and field team later this Iowa and Nebraska before making the final

Courtesy photo December 18 was a big day in the Hiatt family as Tyler Hiatt, center, signed with North Dakota State University. Hiatt won state titles in discus throw and shot put last year as a junior at Lincoln High School in South Dakota. Joining him at the table are, in the back row, Lucas Hiatt, Caleb Hiatt, Chuck Hiatt, Janelle Hiatt and Melissa Hiatt, and, in the front row: Tyler’s dad Jon Hiatt and mother Stephanie Bowers Hiatt.

decision to head to Fargo. to Gatorade, his discus throw of 182 feet, 11 Hiatt had good vibes about NDSU as inches placed him 59th in the nation among far back as the summer when he attended a high schoolers and his 59-1 shot put ranked throws camp at the college. Both he and his 94th. dad were impressed by NDSU coach Justin He showed vast improvement by the St. Clair, so they decided to return for an end of last season compared to the start of official visit. the season. “I fell in love with it. It’s a tight-knit “I started the year throwing at 52 [feet] community,” Hiatt said. and ended at 59,” he said. “Discus went from Hiatt will do the weight throw (indoor) 150-ish to 182.” and hammer throw (outdoor) in college. He Hiatt has continued to hone his skills said it’s not unusual for throwers to redshirt during the offseason. He has a practice area their first season as they become acclimated set up in his basement that allows him to to heavier weights used in college compared practice year round. to high school. When he reaches college, he plans to Back when he was starting his high major in business and accounting. NDSU’s school life as a freshman at Lincoln, Hiatt track and field team faces some of the biggest never figured track and field would be his schools in the country. This year’s schedule sport. He played on an undefeated freshman includes meets hosted by Arizona State, football team. The team’s coach – who is also LSU, Nebraska, Stanford and Washington. the track and field coach – suggested Hiatt “I want to be able to compete against the join the track and field team. Since then, big FBS schools,” Hiatt said. progress and longer throws have come each For now, he said he’s focused on his step of the way. As a freshman, he qualified senior year and a strong finish to what has for states in discus. As a sophomore, he Michael Brown Photography become a memorable high school track and Courtesy photo finished fifth in discus and sixth in shot put. Tyler Hiatt was named South Dakota Gatorade field career. Tyler Hiatt and his parents, Jon and Stephanie, show their support for North Dakota State University As a junior, he won both events at states with Track & Field Athlete of the Year last year. after Tyler signed with the school located in Fargo where he’ll join the track and field team. personal bests on the same day. According 3C • The Seminole Tribune • January 31, 2020 Julia Smith, Adryauna Baker lead OHS girls as postseason nears

BY KEVIN JOHNSON Senior Editor

BELLE GLADE — Just how good was the start for the Okeechobee High School girls basketball team in its game at Glades Day on Jan. 24? Through three minutes, the score was Courtesy photo Julia Smith 9, Glades Day 2. Julius Aquino celebrates with his family after Vian High School’s victory in an Oklahoma state Smith, a starting guard and one of three semifinal football game in December. With Julius, from left, are his mom Alexandra Sanchez, grandpa Seminoles who saw action against Glades Frank Cabal, uncle Cliff Sanchez and memaw Alicia Cabal. Day, scored her team’s first nine points. The scoring outburst came as a bit of a surprise to Smith and just about everyone else. She’s been relied upon this season to provide Julius Aquino helps tenacious defense, which her coach said she’s excelled at, but she hasn’t been a huge factor in the scoring department, until the Vian High football reach trip to Belle Glade. Smith led the Brahmans to a comfortable Oklahoma state final 58-9 win. Kevin Johnson “It felt good to score. Everyone was Okeechobee High senior guard Julia Smith forces a turnover with tough defense against Glades Day proud of me because it was kind of a shock on Jan. 24 in Belle Glade. Smith scored 12 points to lead the Brahmans to victory. BY KEVIN JOHNSON was tough on him. He didn’t play much last you could say,” Smith said. Senior Editor year in Florida. “This is her season high,” said earlier in the year she would After starting his high school career Okeechobee coach Jovanny Torres. “She’s Julius Aquino returned to high in Oklahoma for Fort Gibson, where his been more of a defensive player for us. catch the ball and look for someone to pass to. I school football in Oklahoma this fall and uncles Jesse and Sammy Sanchez starred When we go man-to-man, I put her on the immediately made an impact on a team that in previous seasons, Aquino played his best player and she usually locks ‘em up moved her [to JV] to get her confidence up and now went all the way to the state final. sophomore season in Florida for American pretty good.” Aquino, a junior, played safety and Heritage School’s junior varsity team. He Nobody locked up Smith as she finished she’s actually dribbling and looking for her shooters and tailback for Vian High School, which returned west this season and fit right in at with 12 points in abbreviated playing time. appropriately enough is located on Victory Vian. With the game being one-sided, taking shots. She’s leading scorer on JV team,” he said. Lane in Vian. The team compiled plenty of “He’s a good athlete and the biggest asset Okeechobee’s starters such as Smith and victories this season with a 13-2 record and he has that a lot of kids don’t have is speed,” fellow Seminole Adryauna Baker only A fourth Seminole – Shaela French – is also on finished runner-up in Class 2A after a 42-34 said Wright, who played at Oklahoma State played about 10 minutes as players called loss to Metro Christian in the Class 2A state University and in the NFL. up from the JV team, including the Tribe’s the JV team. As for the varsity championship Dec. 14. Wright also praised Aquino’s work Caylie Huff, picked up varsity playing Aquino, son of Alexandra Sanchez, ethic. minutes. squad, the Brahmans will soon be focused on the started a few games on a solid defense that “He worked his tail off all year and Okeechobee’s defense held Glades day held opponents to fewer than 20 points in all contributed to this team,” Wright said. without a point for all of the second and third district playoffs. They’ll likely be the No. 2 seed but two games. He was also a regular on all Vian notched four consecutive wins in the behind top-seed special teams and saw some action on offense playoffs to reach its first state championship Jensen Beach. in the backfield. He scored a few times. in a dozen years. Next season’s squad is Regardless “He did really well,” said Vian assistant expected to be strong, too. of the coach Kenyatta Wright, who handles “We have a lot of kids coming back next outcome in the linebackers and safeties. “He made the year and Julius will be a huge part of that,” postseason, transition from Florida back to Oklahoma Wright said. Torres has and getting back in the mode of football. It guided the team to a huge improvement. The win at Glades Day Ethan Bear, Edmonton coupled with proceeding wins against Oilers to visit Panthers South Fork and TRIBUNE STAFF biggest surprises, posting 4 goals and 12 Moore Haven assists in 49 games while averaging more upped the Kevin Johnson than 20 minutes of ice time per game. team’s record The Edmonton Oilers, which feature Sophomore guard Adryauna Baker leads a break for the Brahmans defenseman Ethan Bear, will visit the Florida Both teams are in battles for playoff to 18-5, a long against Glades Day. Baker scored 22 points in the team’s game the spots in their respective conferences. ways from a Panthers for a 4 p.m. game on Feb. 15 at the Kevin Johnson (2) previous night. BB&T Center in Sunrise. The Panthers also have an Indigenous Above, Caylie Huff fires a pass to a teammage during the year ago when player in their system. Defenseman Brady the squad was Bear, an Indigenous player who grew Brahmans win at Glades Day. Below, Julia Smith and Adryauna of them. We’ve been playing really hard.” up in the Ochapowace Cree Nation in Keeper, from the Cross Lake Nation in Baker wait for a whistle to get back into the game as coach 6-15. Manitoba, has played this season for “We’ve come a long way,” Saskatchewan, Canada, is in his first full NHL Jovanny Torres looks on. season. He’s been one of the Edmonton’s Florida’s minor league team in Springfield, Torres said. “I’m definitely proud Massachusetts. quarters and nearly the entire fourth quarter. Offensively, Baker has put up impressive all-around numbers throughout the season. She poured in 22 points the previous night as the Brahmans racked up a season-high 77 points in a win at DeSoto County. “Adryuana is doing everything. She almost had a double-double [vs DeSoto],” THE VANGUARD SCHOOL Torres said. “She had eight rebounds and six steals. She’s a work horse. She works her Offering Guided Learning through a butt off. She’s not always the points person, but, like [vs Glades Day] when she gets the Personalized Spectrum of Growth. ball she pushes it up the court and she finds her shooters.” Baker’s numbers have skyrocketed compared to a year ago; so, too, has the team. “We have a lot more team chemistry since we did summer camps,” said Baker, who is averaging nearly 10 points and a team-high seven rebounds per game. “Us three [Seminoles] knowing each other and being from the same community helps a lot, too, because we’ve played together before.” Huff, a junior, hit a 3-pointer against Glades Day. Torres said he continues to see improvement from her since the start of the season. “She’s not hitting all her shots, but Individualized Learning Paths Community Engagement ‘Brawl at The Rock’ comes to College and Career Preparation Seminole Hard Rock

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TRIBUNE STAFF with rare back-to-back losses against St. Thomas Aquinas and Blanche Ely, but rebounded to post consecutive wins against The American Heritage School girls Winter Haven, Fort Myers and Somerset basketball team will try to continue its state Prep. championship reign in February. The Stubbs are in their senior year. The Patriots, who have the Stubbs sisters December is a starting guard; Tiana has been December and Tiana from the Hollywood out with an injury, but hoped to play again Reservation, have won the past two Class before the end of the season. 5A state championships. They are in the The Class 5A-District 14 playoffs begin midst of yet another impressive season. Feb. 3. The championship is slated for Feb. With two games left in its regular 7. Archbishop McCarthy is the host school. season, the Patriots had a 17-4 record. They encountered a brief hiccup in mid-January

Courtesy photo After helping Anadarko High School win an Oklahoma state championship last season, Lexi Foreman and the Warriors are eying a repeat this season. Lexi Foreman leading top state-ranked Anadarko Lady Warriors basketball BY DAN NINHAM (ONEIDA) her team to a championship and undefeated and Lexi went out and took two charges, got season. There were several games in which two steals in a row, and knocked down a big Kevin Johnson The Class 4A Anadarko Lady Warriors she was leading scorer and at least one three-pointer. After that, we blew that team recently won their hosted Warrior Classic. game in which she scored two points for the out by 30 points and finished the tournament American Heritage senior guard December Stubbs leads a break against St. Thomas Aquinas. There are several team members who are opposing team. She managed to carry on that with another championship,” added Coach playing outstanding together. One of them is tradition through the 8th grade, mistakenly Aso. Lexi Foreman. of course usually at the jump ball, she went “But most of all, I love her embracing Foreman is a 5’8”, junior, guard for the the wrong way.” personality,” said Coach Aso. “She accepts 10-1 Lady Warriors in Anadarko, Oklahoma. “In high school, the team plays people for who they are but she’s so loyal “My tribes are Florida Seminole, great together and Coach Zinn is always to her friends! She loves hard and she is Kiowa, and Sac and Fox,” said Lexi. “My encouraging her to do what he knows she always kind. I could go on all day about this mother is Florida Seminole and Kiowa, and can do. He has conditioned them in a way great person and player. It has been an honor my father is Kiowa and Sac and Fox. We’ve that helps build their endurance more than and privilege to get to coach Lexi. She is a been living in Anadarko pretty much all my any other. Outside of high school, she really coaches dream player to coach.” life.” loves the high level of competition in AAU “My husband and I knew Lexi Foreman “One tribal core value I grew up with basketball. Her coach, Aso Pogi, has had a was special when she was an 8th grader in was to respect my elders, and I translate very positive impact in her development as a the fall of 2017,” said Lila Osceola-Heard. that onto the court by showing respect to player. The team is very family-oriented and “We were coaches with Next Level Natives my coaches and refs,” said Lexi. “Another the other players have the same mindset as and ended up playing against Lexi at a Youth value would be the importance of my family. Lexi, which results in some great basketball.” Native tourney. We had a good team, and I love my teams (both H.S. and AAU) like Coach Aso Pogi reflected on getting to she was making plays for her team, keeping they are my family. It’s really more than know Lexi Foreman: “I met her when she them in the game. Not just by scoring, but just basketball. God has blessed me with was in 5th grade. She was playing for her also from getting assists, setting screens, a the talents I have today. So the way I carry dad and we faced each other in a tournament. little bit of everything. We came out on top myself on the court is to honor God, my After watching her play I instantly knew she and we took notice of her skills and how family, tribes, and school.” belonged with us. Although we beat Lexi’s she carried herself. Lexi and my daughter Kevin Johnson group, I chased down her dad after the game Stailee Heard became friends soon after “My parents, coaches, teammates, & American Heritage senior Tiana Stubbs, battling back from an injury, leads the cheers from the bench. family have all influenced me to become a and began to tell him how much I thought the tournament. Lexi began playing with better basketball player,” said Lexi. “Not she would fit us perfectly. Matt was so kind our team Next Level Natives when she was only for myself, but for them as well. and really felt like Lexi would be a great available.” They’ve pushed me to limits that I never addition to our group. I think the hesitation “Then summer of 2019, Lexi’s AAU knew I needed to be pushed, taught me to be for Matt and Lexi, was more about her fitting team, Oklahoma Swish played in Tulsa and humble and become more confident in my in and feeling like she belonged. After her needed a player, and called my daughter game.” first tournament experience with the girls, to play. And as they say the rest is history, Dad and mom Matthew and Alicia it was a match made in heaven. These girls Lexi and Stailee love playing together. Lexi Foreman addressed their daughter Lexi have been together ever since. By the time has the qualities of a champion, humble working on her basketball skills: “Lexi had the girls were going into the 9th grade, they demeanor off the court and shines on the started dribbling a basketball constantly, had established themselves as one of the court. She plays for her team, loves getting throughout the house, around the first grade. Elite Teams in Oklahoma.” steals and dropping dimes. Takes pride in At that point, we decided to sign her up to “In the summer of 2019, our group went her defense and loves getting stops as much play at the YMCA. Her first team was all 17-1 and we were fortunate to win three as she loves to score. Lexi keeps adding to boys, but she held her own. She has always National Championships. Lexi is definitely her game with her pizzazz she is growing as been a competitor whether in sports, the one of our Captains and her leadership a leader. Lexi is the type of kid all coaches classroom and with her siblings.” although is not loud, she is very efficient and love to coach, gives eye contact, stays calm “In the second grade she started to effective. She leads with her play and is an under pressure, does what’s asked if her, practice with her older brother and his team. all around player. Lexi can score outside and encourages her teammates, stays positive Her dad was the coach, so he included her in inside, she can defend 1 through 5, she leads and loves the game,” said Lila. all the drills and scrimmages. By the fourth us in steals and blocks, and she will sacrifice grade she had a great coach who recognized her body by taking charges. I can remember her ability. Her constant dribbling finally us being down to a good team in New This article is from ndnsports.com. Kevin Johnson paid off as she started as point guard in the Orleans, and it just seemed like we were Sisters Tiana Stubbs and December Stubbs from the Hollywood Reservation have been a part of two 4-6th grade league. That year she helped lead not into it. No energy. I challenged the girls state championships at American Heritage School in Plantation. Okeechobee High boys win holiday tournament

BY TRIBUNE STAFF following day Okeechobee topped St. Okeechobee is garnering attention in Joseph Academy, 41-27, with 11 points from state rankings. The team was ranked No. 4 Madrigal. The team wrapped up its perfect in Class 5A as of Jan. 21 from the Florida Silas Madrigal and the Okeechobee weekend with a 62-30 win against Faith Association of Basketball Coaches and High School boys basketball team enjoyed Christian. Source Hoops. a productive holiday break. The Brahmans The tournament was hosted by St. Madrigal, a senior guard, is the only won the D5 Alive Holiday Tournament with Edward’s School in Vero Beach. Seminole on the Brahmans this season. He an undefeated 3-0 record. Okeechobee kept winning into the New hit double figures in scoring four times in In their opener on Dec. 26, the Year. The Brahmans won nine of 10 games January (16 vs Vero Beach, 18 vs Port St. Brahmans cruised past Sports Leadership in January as of the 29th to run their record Lucie, 19 vs Somerset College Prep, 12 vs & Management High School, 74-29. The to 18-2. Centennial).

Courtesy photo The Okeechobee High School boys basketball team, which includes Silas Madrigal, third from left, celebrate after winning the D5 Alive Holiday Tournament. 5C • The Seminole Tribune • January 31, 2020 PECS girls, boys teams conclude strong seasons

BY KEVIN JOHNSON dropping a close game against Osceola win. Senior Editor Middle, 36-34. “[Osceola Middle] has some big girls. Aundre Baker starred in the game We just have to box them out and stay in BRIGHTON — The Pemayetv against Osceola Middle as he scored a team- there with them and rebound the ball,” said Emahakv Charter School boys and girls high 18 points. His steals and layups in the PECS coach Tim Thomas. varsity teams concluded outstanding seasons fourth quarter helped keep PECS’ hopes Despite the loss, Thomas was thrilled as they departed the court for the final time alive. Keenan Jones contributed six points. the way his team competed. In the teams’ with wins against West Glades on eighth- Coach Baker said she enjoyed her first first meeting, Osceola Middle won by 18; grade parent night Jan. 23. year as coach. She said the boys and her this time around the margin was a mere two In a pregame ceremony, the girls team grew in respect for each other as the season points. honored its eighth-graders – Anyiah Baker went along. Carlee and Truley Osceola were the and Jana Johnson – and the boys did the “I wouldn’t rather have any other group team’s leading scorers with 11 points each. same for Santana Alvarez, Aundre Baker, of kids for my first year of coaching,” she Lason Baker scored 10 and Preslynn Baker Bryce Baker and Jaryko Billie. said. had nine. The good news for PECS – and Those players are leaving their programs Similar to the boys, the PECS girls game perhaps bad news for its opponents – is that in good shape. Both teams swept Yearling, against Osceola Middle wasn’t decided until all four of those players and many more on LaBelle, Clewiston and Moore Haven this the final seconds. Osceola Middle was up by the roster will be back in 2021. season. If not for Osceola Middle School, four with 90 seconds left, but PECS wasn’t “I’m only losing two players this year, the PECS squads would have had perfect about to exit quietly. Lason Baker hit a so next year is going to be very promising,” seasons. long 3-pointer and Carlee Osceola came up Thomas said. “We’re losing really good players,” said with a steal and layup to keep PECS within The Around the Lakes postseason boys coach Jaryaca Baker. striking distance. Truley Osceola drained tournament, which PECS won twice in recent The boys team notched a memorable 53- a pair of 3-pointers in the waning seconds, years, remains on hiatus. PECS coaches said 50 overtime win against Clewiston before but Osceola Middle managed to grab a key the only schools interested in playing were offensive rebound late and hung on for the Osceola and PECS.

Kevin Johnson Aundre Baker goes sky high as he battles on the opening tip of PECS boys game against Osceola Middle on Jan. 21.

Kevin Johnson Preslynn Baker drives toward the hoop as coach Tim Thomas and the bench watch against Osceola Middle on Jan. 21 in Brighton.

Kevin Johnson Jana Johnson eyes the basket while defended by an Osceola Middle player.

Kevin Johnson Bryce Baker, left, provides tight defense against a Osceola Middle player.

Kevin Johnson Kevin Johnson Carlee Osceola brings the ball up court against Osceola Middle. Jordan Johnson battles for position in the paint against Osceola Middle. 6C • The Seminole Tribune • January 31, 2020 F AHFACHKEE From page 1C handling duties along with Stockton and they’ve shown poise far beyond their grades, which bodes well for the future of the team which will have holes to fill next season with the loss of the trio of seniors. Torres set the tone against Moore Haven with two steals and layups in the first minute. Win or lose, Ahfachkee has battled every step of the way this season. “Every game we’ve competed hard. Every game we’ve had a chance to win,” Jones said. The team is scheduled to play in district playoffs at Sheridan Hills Christian School in Hollywood on Feb. 4.

***

Former Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School coach Preston Baker is in his first year at the helm of the Moore Haven girls team. The Terriers are in rebuilding mode with a small, young squad that includes former PECS player Tafv Harris and four freshmen. “It’s going pretty good. Everybody is new,” Baker said. “We don’t have any seniors. It’s a work in progress. I love coaching this team. I love working from the bottom up because that’s how I started. Look where I am now. I never thought I’d be here.”

Beverly Bidney Ahfachkee guard Carlise Bermudez brings the ball up court against Immokalee on Jan. 21. Joining the rush on the left is Makayla Torres.

Kevin Johnson Beverly Bidney Ahfachkee’s bench and crowd erupt as they cheer after a teammate made a basket against Moore Haven. Ahfachkee senior Leilani Gopher launches a 3-point shot against Immokalee.

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