www.seminoletribe.com Volume XXVII • Number 6 April 28, 2006

What’sInside Parade of Easter Activities

Chairman Cypress’s Birthday Bash Page 5

Judy Weeks Rachel Billie hunting for eggs. Painting By Guy LaBree Seminole Aquaculture “Sneak Attack” by Guy Labree shows the Mississippi Volunteers scouting the marsh off of Lake Okeechobee. Preschool, Community, Page 7 Preservation of Okeechobee Battlefield Seniors Celebrate Story by Judy Weeks By Moses Osceola, President for you and me; they accomplished SEE PAGE 10 FOR MORE IMMOKALEE — There was no shortage HOLLYWOOD — On their mission because we are still home. of activities for the celebration of the Easter holiday April 4, the governor and the state of PRESERVATION NEWS Today, we carry our ancestor’s efforts in in Immokalee. The Immokalee Preschool, communi- Florida approved the purchase of the courtrooms and board rooms of ty and seniors all celebrated with respective parties. 145 acres of land. This land is a por- America. tion of the site where a great battle between Seminoles and I am hopeful that the State of Florida will involve Seniors Easter Party U.S. soldiers was fought on Christmas Day, 1837 in our Tribe in its efforts to establish a memorial park that The seniors Easter party got under way on Okeechobee. will pay tribute to both the Seminole and U.S. warriors. April 12, with a variety of events. Beginning with The acquisition of this site caps the efforts of Again, many thanks to the state for recognizing the impor- the ever popular game of Bingo, the participants many who have dedicated much time and effort towards tance of preserving this battlefield site. next competed in an Easter bonnet contest and the the preservation of this site. I most beautiful and original Easter basket competi- Senior’s Spring would like to thank State tion. Representative Richard Machek, Judging the events were Seminole Police Trike Fest Shawn Henderson and the Department officers Laura Herran and Allen Colon, Page 20-21 Friends of the Okeechobee who found it hard to make a decision with so many Battlefield, Chairman Mitchell fabulous entries. They were grateful that all entries Cypress, the late Billy L. remained anonymous until the results were Letters ...... 3 Cypress, Bill Steele, tribal his- Education ...... 15 announced. toric preservation officer, Tribal First place in both the basket and hat con- Health ...... 12-13 citizens, Dowling Watford, test went to Louise Motlow. The second place bas- Sports ...... 17-19 Okeechobee city councilman, ket went to Rachel Billie and third was Elaine and others who have supported Aguilar. this effort. The hats were not only humorous, but a The battlefield preserva- creation to behold with little floppy ducks, eggs, tion memorializes our Seminole, flowers, grass, sequins, bunnies and a multitude of Creek, and other Native unbelievable items in their décor. At the completion Americans who fought against of the contest, Elaine Aguilar was in the second slot U.S. forces in order to preserve and Rachel Billie took third. our right to stay in Florida. It A special thank you goes out to the depart- gives me great pride after hear- ment staffs, which put a great deal of thought and ing and reading of the ferocity care into the preparation of the prize baskets which and determination of our people Photo Submitted by the President’s Office they donated. In addition to the standard stuffed ani- to defend our land and way of Attorney General of Florida Charlie Crist, Governor Jeb Bush, State mals, candy and flowers, there were gift cards, per- life. Representative Richard Machek, Shawn Henderson, Okeechobee City fume, ceramics, jewelry, keepsakes and so much I am both proud and Councilman Dowling Watford, Commissioner of Agriculture Charlie Bronson, more. Each basket proved to be a treasure chest for honored to be a descendant of the winner. our ancestors who fought so hard Seminole Tribe Historic Preservation Officer Bill Steele, Chief Financial Officer State of Florida Tom Gallagher. A few of the contributors were: Seminole Broadcasting, Recreation, Department of Elders Affairs, Library, Seminole Police Department, Chris Jenkins Utilities, Health and the Clinic. Seminole Tribal Allen Colon Tribe Supports New Educational Center at IRCC Nutritionist Charlotte Porcaro delighted the gather- ing by bringing her blender and creating some very healthy and taste pleasing smoothies as refreshments Tribal Citizen during the activities. See EASTER, page 36 Graduates from BCC By Chris Jenkins HOLLYWOOD — It was one of those days when all the hard work finally paid off. For tribal citizen and panther clan member, Allen Colon, graduation day from Broward Community College was special, as he received his certification as a police service aide, March 29. As a student in the Broward Police Academy, Colon was among 19 others taking that walk into the future, to protect and serve. The process began with six weeks of training from Feb. 20–March 29. Now that the hard part is finally over, Colon will begin a rotating shift with the Immokalee, Hollywood, and Big Cypress police departments. According to Colon, such a position gives him a foot in the door as well as an understanding into Judy Weeks what law enforcement involves. (L-R) Emma Brown, Jessica Billie, Dr. Edward Massey, Louise Gopher, Sonja Buck, Michele Thomas and President “It’s something I have always Moses Osceola. Florida National wanted to do since high school,” he said. The decision to pursue his dream has been more than 20 years in the mak- By Emma Brown Tribe of Florida presented the college Referring to the portrait, Guard Honors ing and at age 39, he felt the time was OKEECHOBEE, FL — with a donation in the amount of Louise said, “I don’t know how old right. Indian River Community College $50,000 to help support this project. this picture is but I vaguely remember “I decided a year and a half ago (IRCC) has launched a $2.5 million IRCC President Dr. Edwin R. Massey posing for it. It is great to be a part of Seminole Tribe that I’m going to go for it,” Colon said. fund-drive to build the Williamson accepted the check on behalf of the this organization.” With all the work and potential Conference and Educational Center college and expressed his deepest grat- This portrait of a young Submitted by Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum dangers in law enforcement, Colon feels for economic, community, cultural and itude for the continued support shown Louise in traditional dress will remain BIG CYPRESS — The Tribal Historic having a solid support system entering in, business development at its Dixon by the Seminole Tribe. mounted on the wall at the Preservation Office of the Seminole Tribe of Florida is is important. His mother, Rachel Billie, Hendry Campus in Okeechobee. The A portrait of the Education Okeechobee Dixon Hendry campus to presently working with the Florida National Guard along with brother Vincent, sister Kattiria, new center is being named after long- Director Louise Gopher, that has been honor her many years of dedication to (FLARNG) and the National Guard Bureau to develop son Joshua and girlfriend Maria continue time Okeechobee residents, Frank mounted on the wall served as the the school. the Integrated Cultural Resources Management Plan to back him in his pursuits. “Sonny” Williamson, and his wife, backdrop for the presentation. Gopher Brighton Council (ICRMP) for the Guard’s lands in Florida. This is a his- “From family members to law Betty, for their support of the new is a graduate from IRCC and went on Representative Andrew Bowers’ assis- toric preservation plan than will determine how the enforcement, the support has been super,” facility. to become one of the “Outstanding tant Michele Thomas attended the FLARNG will treat Native American archaeological On April 13 , The Seminole Alumni” of the school. See SERVICE AIDE, page 15 See IRCC, page 10 See MEDALLION, page 5 The Seminole Tribune 2 April 28, 2006 Happy Mother’s Day!

A Message from the Chairman A Message from the President/Vice-Chairman Today is your day. I hope you will have many moments to Proverbs 31 states that a virtuous woman is reflect on how much you are needed and appreciated. A mother’s job hard to find and her price is far above rubies and so it is is not easy. It goes on and on, often without the recognition it with our mothers. Praise God for all mothers because as deserves. That is why Mother’s Day has always been a very important Proverbs 31 points out, they are indeed the stalwarts of day for me. the home. On this Mothers’ Day, I want to thank God I would like to give each and every mother recognition for for my mother who has been every bit what Proverbs 31 her dedication to her children, family and community. You are the says they are. I am sure that you think of your mother in backbone of the Seminole people. You are what links us from the past the same way. to the future. On this occasion of Mothers’ Day, I encourage Your children hear your words and see the examples you set. each of us to treat our mothers with all the love and From you they learn how to be proud, how to be generous and how to respect they deserve. Let us honor our mothers always, be a good person. You are critical to the continued health and prosper- not just on Mothers’ Day. Give your mother a hug and ity of the Seminole Tribe. I sincerely appreciate each one of you. let her know just how much you love her. I thank God And, to all of those whose mothers have passed, know that that our mothers are like God in so many ways, they you are not forgotten. The wisdom, sacrifices and strength of mothers love without end, they are so forgiving, they are so live on in each family member. A mother’s love is something we never patient, and they are always there for us whenever we forget. It’s a treasure we always carry with us. need them. To all our mothers, God bless you and thank you! Sincerely, Mitchell Cypress, Chairman President/Vice-Chairman Seminole Tribe of Florida Moses Osceola Survey of the Seminoles of Florida By Roy Nash able absence of salt in their dishes, and their stock of sugar was [Editor’s Note: This is a verbatim re-print of a survey of the nearly exhausted. Seminole Indians by Roy Nash conducted on behalf of the Bureau The only fruit available at the time I visited the Cypress of Indian Affairs in 1930. This is Part2 of a series The Seminole family was the guavas after which the camp is named. In season, Tribune will re-print in its entirety. Please see the April 28 issue however, there is available to all these Indians sour oranges and of The Tribune for Part 3.] limes, some bananas, quantities of blueberries, and wild plums. Their table in August was noticeably void of fresh veg- Exert 8, Part 1: The Florida Seminole and his Environment etables. That was from choice not necessity, because there is always available the tender bud of the cabbage palmetto, delicious SEMINOLE SURVEY OF 1930 either raw or cooked. In the dry season, however, their little gar- Can you guess who these ladies are? By Roy Nash den yields corn, pumpkins, sweet potatoes, cowpeas, and a few ———— shoots of sugarcane.

Previous Photo Quiz CHAPTER I Exert 10, Part 1: The Florida Seminole and his Environment A TYPICAL CAMP OF 1930 SECTION 11: SLEEPING SECTION 8: INVENTORY OF PROPERTY When night descended and the sand flies and mosquitoes How does this family of eight live? What do they eat? became troublesome, mosquito bars made a fine-meshed cotton Where do they sleep? In what does their wealth consist? To cloth were stretched over each bed. The father and mother and understand the life of Guava Camp is to understand nine-tenths of two older daughters occupied one sleeping platform, rather a the Seminole camps in Florida. strange arrangement, inasmuch as nothing but the thickness of An inventory of the property visible to the eye in this two mosquito bars separated the intimacies of married life from camp revealed the following: the daughters in the other bed. The grandfather and younger chil- Livestock: 12 chickens, 2 dogs and a pup, 5 hogs about dren under separate mosquito bars occupied another platform. A camp (probably 50 on the range), 2 oxen. blanket or a buckskin between the sleeper and his hard bed was Transportation: 1 four-wheeled wagon on top, 1 ox yoke, all they asked. In the cold weather of winter a blanket to roll up in 1 dugout cypress canoe. suffices, although a white man would experience bitter discomfort Tribal citizens may pick up a Firearms: 1 double-barreled 12-gage shotgun, 1 combi- with so little in freezing weather—I fancy an Indian could stand complimentary copy of the nation 0.38 rifle and 12-gage shotgun. another blanket at times. If the night were rainy, a long muslin 2006–January 2007 Seminole Tribal Tools: 1 ax, 1 hoe, 1 machete, 2 sheath knives for skin- sheet was stretched around the house between the eaves and the calendar at your reservation’s field ning. sleeping platform to break the wind , although it did not always office. Kitchen equipment: 1 mortar and pestle, 2 large iron ket- keep out the rain. The dogs and the chickens and the pigs found This year’s calendar features tles for sofskee and stew, 2 wooden sofskee spoons, 2 basket shelter under the platforms near the fire. the Big Cypress reservation’s Ah-Tah- sieves, 1 Dutch oven, 2 water pails, 1 dish for bread, 2 fry pans, 2 Sleep was generally preceded by hours of low-voiced Thi-Ki Museum and Billie Swamp coffee pots, 1 kettle,6 cups, 1 brass-bound wooden bucket, 3 five- conversation interspersed with music from a phonograph. And so Safari. gallon tin cans with covers. long as I was there to supply them, all–from the boy of 7 to his All others may purchase cal- Household equipment: 6 mosquito nets, 6 blankets, 2 father, and particularly the girls and their mother–puffed with evi- endars for $10 by ordering online at movable benches, 1 foot-pedal sewing machine, 1 hand sewing dent pleasure on cigars. The Seminole does not grow tobacco, and www.seminoletribe.com/marketplace Buffalo Tiger machine, 1 lantern, 1 umbrella, 1 phonograph (15 records), 1 long the camp seemed to have none on hand. or by calling Darline Buster at (954) John Billie Jr. from the Hollywood muslin sheet ( used to windbreak), 1 pair scissors. 966-6300, Ext 1266. reservation guessed the first name! Toilet articles: 1 mirror, 2 combs, 1 bucket for washing. Exert 11, Part 1: The Florida Seminole and his Environment Children’s toys: 1 homemade toy wagon, 12 homemade dolls (2 inches long). SECTION 12: CASH INCOME Clothing: 4 bundles in addition to clothes worn, 10 yards of calico in odd lengths. It is evident that many items listed as contributing to the Ornaments:50 pounds of neck beads, 2 bead chains with comfort of this household on the edge of the Everglades imply The Seminole Tribune silver coins, 1 bead chain with gold coin, 12 silver capeorna- dealings with the white world of commerce at Immokalee or Fort f you need a reporter or you would 7800, Ext. 1260. E-mail ments, 4 silver crescents (Billy Fewell), 6 beaded hair nets. Myers. The cash income of this family is derived almost entirely like to submit an article, birthday [email protected], fax (954) from the sale of raccoon and alligator skins, buckskin, and an Iwish or poem to The Seminole 967-3482, or mail to: The Seminole Exert 9, Part 1: The Florida Seminole and his Environment occasional otter. The women make a few dollars from the sale of Tribune, please contact the Editor-In- Tribune, 6300 Stirling Road, Seminole dolls and a little indifferent beadwork. Whitney is a Chief Virginia Mitchell at (800) 683- Hollywood, Florida 33024. SECTION 9: CLOTHING unusually industrious hunter and probably takes in $300 a year in his pelts. In addition, he may get an opportunity to guide hunters he following deadlines apply to Editor-In-Chief: Virginia Mitchell I could make no detailed inventory of the quantity of clothing at for a couple of weeks each fall in the open season, at $6 a day for all submissions for inclusion Editor: Janice Billie Guava camp, but it was adequate. On wash day there would be as himself and oxcart, with a bonus of a ten dollar bill and a quart of into the Tribune: Assistant Editor: Shelley Marmor many as a half dozen complete sets of garments on the rail, dress- liquor for killing the buck his employer could not hit. T es as brilliant as the spread of a peacock’s tail, the only decorative Small as this cash income is, it would be ample if the Proofreader: Elrod Bowers Issue: May 19, 2006 Business Manager: Darline Buster washing I have ever seen drying in the sun. When I expressed a bootleggers portion could be converted into a fund to tide over the Deadline: May 4, 2006 Graphic Designer: Melissa Sherman desire to but two or three costumes as souvenirs, the women lean months of the year. Design Assistant: Stephen Galla brought out bundle after bundle of new garments to choose from. Whoever, in North America, earns his bread by hard Issue: June 9, 2006 Production Assistant: Lila Osceola A white hunter would consider some kind of waterproof outer manual effort in the lonely spots of the earth is prone to go on a Deadline: May 24, 2006 Reporter: Chris Jenkins garment desirable, but inasmuch as the rainy season is also the spree when he hits town. This is true for lumberjacks, of miners, Photo Archivist: Felix DoBosz warm season in south Florida, this lack is not serious. of cowboys, of trappers. It is painfully true of the Seminole. I Issue: June 30, 2006 Receptionist: Sherry Maraj never heard of Billy Fewell getting drunk, and the daughters are Deadline: June 15, 2006 SECTION 10: FOOD too young to have begun, but it is uncommon for Whitney Contributors: Cypress and his splendid squaw to come reeling into the Hendry Issue: July 21, 2006 Emma Brown, Judy Weeks, Kenny Nor was there any shortage of food in this camp. In fact, County Reservation on their way home from Immokalee. Deadline: July 6, 2006 Bayon, Tony Heard, Iretta Tiger, it was a feast from morning to night, for the Seminole is superior Immokalee. Not even a moving-picture show. Where the Nery Mejicano, Susan Etxebarria to regular meal hours. On arising in the morning, one of the girls very pinnacle of excitement is attained by peeping in the door of Please note: Late submissions will be would kindle the fire, heat up a kettle of meat stew, a kettle of the room, or watching country gawks shuffle through the figures posted in the following issue. The Seminole Tribune hominy grits, a pot of coffee, and bake a pan of biscuits. Dried of a quadrille to the accompaniment of a mouth organ and a dis- venison was the staple meat that went into the pot; occasionally cordant fiddle, where “ All Indians are pigs.” What else is there to Advertising: is a member of the Native American Journalists Association. Letters/e- curlew, whooping crane, duck, chicken, pork, or wild turkey finds do except get drunk at Immokalee? Advertising rates along with sizes and its way there. The grits are boiled as a very thin gruel, which the What goes for liquor does not go for food, and it some- other information may be downloaded mails to the editor must be signed and may be edited for publication. Indians call sofskee. times happens that they completely run out of grits or coffee or from the internet at: These dishes, when hot, were placed in the dining plat- sugar? In the closed season, which is also the season of higher www.seminoletribe.com/tribune. Subscription rate is $30 per year by mail. Make checks payable to The form. At interval all day long one or another (but rarely all at water, the family Cypress has been known to come into the Seminole Tribune, 6300 Stirling once) would sit beside the pots, reach into the kettle for a morsel Hendry County Reservation outward bound with empty bellies. In Postmaster: Road, Hollywood, FL 33024. Phone: of meat, drink from the great wooden sofskee ladle, dip a biscuit either case, drunk or hungry, good old Ivey Byrd, the caretaker, Send Address Changes to: (954) 967-3416. Fax: (954) 967-3482. in the gravy, and wash it down with coffee. There was a notice- looks after them out of his munificent salary of $25 a month. The Seminole Tribune Or subscribe on the Internet at 6300 Stirling Road www.seminoletribe.com Hollywood, FL 33024 © Seminole Tribe of Florida

All tribal citizens of The Seminole Tribe of Florida who live out of state are eligible Please send all letters to 6300 Stirling Road, Hollywood, FL 33024 to receive a free subscription of The Seminole Tribune. Please fill out the information [email protected] below and mail to:The Seminole Tribune 6300 Stirling Road, Room 235 – Hollywood, FL 33024 Dear Editor, 49th American Indian Boy Scouting/Girl Dear Editor, I really appreciate all of the won- Scouting Seminar to be held July 22–26, I saw your article in the March Name derful information that is on your website. 2006 at Cameron University in Lawton, 17, 2006 paper on the reenactment of the I work at elementary school in Central Okla. Our host is the Comanche Nation. Seminole Tribe battles during the early Tribal Roll Number Florida and for our summer program we We of the American Indian 1900s. Being that I’m a person of a black will be studying all about the state of Scouting Association are proud to sponsor background and that numerous black Florida. this unique gathering that brings persons slaves that escaped and headed south into Address I am really looking forward to from all over the country together to Seminole territories and fought alongside teaching my children about the Seminole explore how boy scouting and girl scouting of the native Indians, I would like informa- City State Zip culture and life style. By using your web- can help develop youth. Both Indian and tion on how I could possible join in the site I obtained a great amount of knowl- non-Indian youth (ages 12-17) and adults next re-enactment and contribute. Phone edge about the Seminole Tribe of Florida are encouraged to attend. Could you provide me a name and and can not wait to share all of the infor- Please help your community learn contact information of the person(s) or mation with my children. about this great event. Visit our website at group that heads up this re-enactment? Any E-mail Thanks, www.americanindianscouting.org to view help or referrals in this matter would be Ginny M. Sutton the seminar brochure. You may print the greatly appreciated. Additional Info Beverly Shores Elementary School registration form directly from the site. Ken Felix ATA Assistant Site Coordinator Charlotte Barker [email protected] As soon as we receive this information, your subscription will be mailed to you. Publicity Chairman Dear Editor, American Indian Scouting Assoc. Please spread the word about the The Seminole Tribune 3 April 28, 2006

Susan Etxebarria Patrons enjoy free hot dogs. Brighton Trading Post Celebrates Second Anniversary with Free Gas and Food By Susan Etxebarria “Evan’s Oil provided us with gas two times BRIGHTON — The second anniversary cel- that week. Cheryl was the one that worked that out,” ebration at the Brighton Trading Post & Campground said Osceola. on March 30 revealed good news. Business is better The generator to operate the pumps and the than ever. The staff turnover is almost zero. The store store was borrowed last year but the critical need for provided crucial services after Wilma which helped gas and supplies after a hurricane led Cheryl to ask the residents and neighboring communities in a time of Tribe to purchase two new generators; one for the need. They were able to pump gas when other gas sta- Brighton store and the other for the Big Cypress tions were closed. There are new products on the Trading Post. Soon to be installed, both stores will be able to serve the community if there are power out- ages again this year. The Trading Post seeks to offer products the community wants and introduce new ones. The avail- ability of Seminole arts and crafts and other Native American jewelry has increased over the last two years. There are more dental care products and a new Native American salsa and hot sauce. The store will be expanded in stages. A gourmet coffee service by Seminole Coffee Company will be added shortly and so the country folks can finally enjoy Latte, Americano and Cappuccino cof- fees like the city folks. Expansion of the store by closing the adjacent laundromat and knocking out the walls is in the works. First a new laundry for the campground residents needs to be constructed. The anniversary was a very casual affair. Drawings for free gas drew a lot of people as well as the free hot dogs and sodas. Keeyah Osceola with the help of Charlene Baker served the hot dogs through- Susan Etxebarria out the day. Sandra Osceola helped with the food and Kevin Osceola tastes the cake ordered the cake. Bob Young provided the 1955 Chevy and 50’s music. At noon a fantastic meal prepared by Mary Jo Micco was served in the Community Center of the shelves. There are optimistic dreams of future growth. Brighton Campground to show appreciation to the “Our sales two years ago was $23,000 in patrons, campground residents and employees who April. This year we will probably close out the same shop at the store. month with $230,000.00 in sales, half of that in gas The 32 gas prizes for the drawing were sales,” said Kevin Osceola, the manager who keeps donated by the Brighton Council Representative Andy everything running like clockwork. Bowers. Board Representative Johnny Jones provided Osceola said they were beating the gas prices the luncheon meal; free hot dogs and drinks. It is most in nearby Lakeport stores except the Circle K. The unusual for any store anywhere to thank their patrons Trading Post keeps their prices as competitive as the once a year with a party! The Seminole Tribe of chain store. Florida, Inc., shows great generosity hosting these “Sometimes we don’t make much on gas, enjoyable anniversary parties. only two cents, and nothing at all when the gas is charged on MasterCard but it’s the sodas and snack the drivers buy that adds up,” said Osceola. Cheryl Ann Bolton of the President’s Office of the Seminole Tribe of Florida, Inc., credited Osceola’s management style for staff retention. It is most unusual to keep workers for long in most con- venience stores but the work environment is pleasant, friendly, and efficient. “We keep everything simple, laid back, and everyone is mature. They know what they have to do and they do it,” said Osceola. Osceola really wanted to commend his staff. He said Elsie Lavay keeps the place impeccably clean, Lollie Maisonet is his senior assistant. His store staff are: Debbie Spell, Loretta Young, Bill Jacobs and Colleen Carrie. He also wanted to thank his wife, Sandra and Charlene Baker who assist with management of the store. Much has already been said about how the Trading Post came to the rescue of people needing gas the first six days after the hurricane. But unknown is that people actually drove from Ft. Lauderdale and Miami to get gas at the Brighton Susan Etxebarria Trading Post and quite often filling up a five gallon Mary Jo Micco serves her delicious chocolate cake. gas can as well. Lines of cars were out to the street.

Reminder to Seminole Residents

Please be advised that STOF Animal Registration Drive ends on MAY 15, 2006.

If you own a dog or cat, kindly register them at your local Seminole Health Department. Registration forms are available at the front desk. Proof of rabies vaccination is required before animal licenses are issued.

If you have any questions please call 954-965-1300 ext 126 The Seminole Tribune 4 April 28, 2006

Motor Vehicle Theft Prevention Submitted by Sgt. A1 Signore, Crime Prevention tion and fuel disablers. Unit Supervisor 4. Tracking System. A final recommendation An auto theft occurs about every 26 seconds is a tracking system that emits a signal to the police or in the U.S. Add it up and that’s 1.2 million vehicles a monitoring service when the vehicle is reported each year that wind up in the hands of thieves. The stolen. If your vehicle has a tracking system and is math doesn’t get any better when you consider how stolen, it can oftentimes be recovered faster and with much this cost us. Vehicle theft is the nation’s number less damage. Put your vehicle on the radar screen by one property crime, costing an estimated $82 billion installing a tracking system. annually. Vehicular theft is more than a joyride; it’s So who pays for these crimes? You do; about big money. Vehicle theft is no longer a crime whether your auto is stolen or not, we all pay the committed just by teenagers out for a price for vehicle theft. You... your cowork- joyride. It’s a big business run by ers ...your neighbors ...we’re all victims organized crime rings out to make Shelley Marmor because we pay for this crime through huge profits at your expense. While (L-R) Jackie Burdette, Brenda Gan, Max Osceola, Teresa Bass, Stefanie Hunt, Jennifer McCoy, Chief Mike higher insurance rates. 62 percent of stolen vehicles are Floyd, Elisa Moore, Carolyn Pendleton, Patricia Robinson, Shaundra Young. According to the Insurance found (sometimes with significant Information Institute, about one- damage to them), un-recovered third of a typical comprehensive autos often wind up in the hands of Seminole Police Dispatchers Honored auto insurance premium goes to organized criminals. pay for auto theft claims. Add it From there, the vehicles By Shelley Marmor The 18 SPD telecommunicators are: all up and we each pay hundreds might be: shipped overseas and HOLLYWOOD — On April 13 the Hollywood: Stefanie Hunt, Patricia Robinson, Jennifer of extra dollars each year in sold on the black market, Seminole Police Department (SPD) hosted a luncheon Ward, Jennifer McCoy, Elisa Moore, Catrina Williams, higher insurance premiums far stripped at a chop shop, to honor the 18 telecommunicators, otherwise known Wendy Hopkins, Shaundra Young; Brighton: Jackie this crime. It’s not an equation with its parts sold to as dispatchers. This luncheon coincides with National Burdette, Teresa Bass, Brenda Gan, Mike Ellis, Stacia that works in our favor. crooked body shop oper- Telecommunicators Week, which takes place the sec- Steins; Big Cypress: Carolyn Pendleton, Jean Whitley, Here are some Motor ators who then sell ond week in April annually. Pedro Alcantar, Danielle Dunivent, Stacey Conner. Vehicle Crime Prevention parts or install them on According to SPD Chief of Police Mike Recommendations: other vehicles or resold Floyd, telecommunicators are “the line between the 1. Common Sense: to an unsuspecting community and the police offiers.” When a Seminole This one’s simple and it consumer. Tribal citizen calls 911, one of the SPD dispatchers doesn’t cost you a thing. Vehicle theft answers the call and alerts a member of the police Lock your doors, remove is driven by money department, who then responds to the call. your keys from ignition, and greed. It’s a dan- In addition to Floyd, other high ranking SPD close your windows com- gerous business that officers were in attendance. These persons included: pletely and park in well-lit victimizes everyone. Lieutenant Jerry Meisenheimer, Lieutenant Aaron areas. Take a minute to do the Wright and Captain Bob McDaniel. 2. Visible or right thing. Protect your Hollywood Seminole Tribal Council Audible Device. We find vehicle. And, if you sus- Representative Max B. Osceola Jr. was also in atten- vehicle alarms annoying pect vehicle theft activity, dance. He thanked the dispatchers for their services to when they go off. Even better, call the Seminole Police the Tribal community. so do car thieves ...and they Top Ten Stolen Department or your local “I want you to know I appreciate you,” avoid autos with alarms or agency. Osceola said. “I want you to know the Tribal Council anti-theft devices. Consider Motor Vehicles If you would like to appreciates you… Sho Naa Bish.” adding an anti-theft device to have our Crime Prevention Immediately following appreciation speeches, Shelley Marmor your vehicle, such as an audi- Unit visit your business, event emcee and SPD Communications Supervisor Council Rep. Max Osceola spoke on behalf of the ble alarm system, steering 1. Toyota Camry church group, community Stefanie Hunt, offered invocation. She then invited the Council and himself thanking the dispatchers. wheel locks, steering column gathering or meeting in nine dispatchers in attendance to eat first. collars, theft deterrent decals, 2. Honda Accord order to provide a free semi- wheel locks and/or window 3. Honda Civic nar; please call the Seminole etching. Police Department, Crime 3. Vehicle 4. Chevrolet Full Size P/U Prevention Unit: Crime Q & A’s on Seminole Police Department Immobilizer. Thieves can Prevention Unit Supervisor Submitted by Captain Jerry Meisenheimer services weapons and tasers. Officers are also certified bypass your ignition by 5. Ford Full Size P/U Sgt. A1 Signore, (813) 478- The Seminole Police Department is a unique in operating radar for traffic enforcement. Many of the “hotwiring” a vehicle. But 6. Jeep Cherokee 2680, Big police force in the state of Florida. Unlike police and officers have college degrees and are encouraged to you can put the heat on the Cypress/Immokalee, Officer sheriff’s departments which operate in a closed geo- continue the education. bad guys by installing or uti- 7. Oldsmobile Cutlass Tom Faherty, (239) 657- graphic area, the Seminole Police are spread out serv- If An Officer Does A Good Job, How Can I lizing a vehicle immobilizer 3659, Hollywood, Officer ing seven locations. We are often asked how we can Acknowledge It? system with smart keys with 8. Dodge Caravan Susie Lawson, (954) 961- do that. So, we would like to share with our readers Police officers often are called upon to do computer chips that must be 9. Ford Taurus 7877, Brighton/Ft. Pierce or some frequently asked questions: things that are above and beyond the call of duty. The present to start the vehicle, Officer Ulysses Boldin, Does Each Reservation Have Its Own Seminole Police in particular perform functions that fuse cut-offs or starter, igni- 10. Toyota Corolla (863) 763-5731. Police Department? many other police departments don’t do. If you wish No, there is one agency that covers all the to credit an officer for doing something special you locations. The main administrative office is in can write a letter to the Chief of Police praising the Hollywood. There are also stations on the other reser- officer. The letter will be placed in the officer’s per- vations. All members of the police staff work under sonnel file. These letters help determine Officer of the one set of policies and procedures. Year recognition too. How Are Police Officers Hired? What If I Want To File A Complaint About Candidates must submit a lengthy applica- An Officer? tion. They are then interviewed by a board to deter- The police department has a procedure in mine if they fit the criteria for being Tribal officers. If place to deal with complaints. A form is available at they do, they are given a voice stress test to verify any Seminole Police Station. The person with the for- their truthfulness. mal complaint can complete the form and attest to its After that a background investigator checks truthfulness. The incident will then be investigated by with their references, previous employers, neighbors, a supervisor or the Internal Affairs Person. The com- etc. and makes sure they have no criminal record that plainant will be notified of the results. If the problem would prevent them from being certified. Their driv- is of a minor nature, the immediate supervisor can ing record is also checked. The final stage of hiring is help work out the differences. a personal interview with the chief of police, followed How Can I Get Involved With The Many by a medical examination and a drug screen. Programs The Police Department Has For The What Laws Do The Seminole Police Community? Enforce? Volunteers are always welcome to assist the Under an agreement called Public Law 280, police department. For instance, the department is cur- the Seminole Tribe has agreed to follow state law. In rently setting up a Neighborhood Watch program on return the Tribe is authorized by the State of Florida to all the reservations. A Citizen’s Police Academy is operate its own police force. In addition, the Seminole being planned for Big Cypress and Brighton. A second Police can enforce certain federal laws under the one is in the works for Hollywood. authority of the Bureau of Indian Affairs. This hands-on course is for Tribal citizens What Training Do The Police Officers who want to see first hand what police officers do. A Get? Community Safe program is being set up on all the The officers have to be State Certified under Reservations for volunteers during emergencies and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement Bureau hurricanes. Tribal citizens who have ATVs, swamp of Professional Standards. They are required to com- buggies, 4-wheel drive trucks and any kind of special plete an extensive police academy; then, they must equipment are being recruited to help in times of dis- maintain their certificates by periodically completing aster. Volunteers are also needed to help before and mandatory classes for domestic violence, crimes after hurricanes to help with evacuation and prepara- against children, traffic stops, human diversity, etc. the tion. training division continually puts on in-service classes If you want to get involved, contact any and makes sure that the officers qualify with their Seminole Police Officer. The Seminole Tribune 5 April 28, 2006 Chairman Cypress Gets Surprise Birthday Bash By Felix DoBosz Everyone in unison yelled “Surprise!” HOLLYWOOD — DJ Sean Paul was for the briefly startled 59-year-old birthday boy. playing soft jazzy background music to calm the He laughed and smiled broadly as he recog- crowd gathered in great anticipation for the nized all his assembled friends, which consisted of Tribal citi- zens and employees and invited guests. The funny thing is, he was led to believe that there was a manager’s and director’s meeting at the Seminole Hard Rock Casino & Hotel on the afternoon of March 31. However, it Felix DoBosz turned out to Chairman Mitchell Cypress shows Sally be his surprise Tommie’s birthday gift, a handsome cowhide Medallion birthday bash. briefcase. Continued from page 1 The entire room sites located on their bases. filled with presented with Sally’s gift of a handsome cow- boy cowhide briefcase that he really seemed to The FLARNG presently has warmth and fifty-eight installations that admiration for a treasure. After the gifts, most guests were range from a few acres to the Felix DoBosz great leader who seventy-two thousand acre Chairman Mitchell Cypress and Council Liaison Sally Tommie arrive to a “big has been an focused on a big square creamy white birthday cake with lots of strawberries around the outside Camp Blanding facility. There surprise!” inspiration to are ten bases in located south of the Seminole sitting in the corner. Mitchell stood up behind the cake and blew out the candle on top to warm Lake Okeechobee. These include Tribe, and dedi- sites at Snake Creek, North grand event about to begin. Everyone waited cated so much of his life in helping his people applause. Everyone was then ready and eager to sing the favorite number one song to him, “The Miami, Hollywood, Fort patiently and finally Chairman Mitchell Cypress overcome so many hardships. Lauderdale, Miami, Homestead FLARNG popped his head through the double doors into Everyone in the room paid their respects Happy Birthday Song.” Mitchell had a happy smile on his face and West Palm Beach. In honor had an American flag raised over to Cypress by saying kind and heartfelt of these negotiations, and the the Headquarters of U.S. troops words in wishing the chairman the best in as he thanked everyone for coming out and shar- ing in this blissful day. longstanding relationship in Afghanistan, Camp Phoenix. birthday wishes and how honored between the Seminole Tribe and This flag was presented by the and privileged they felt knowing FLARNG, the Command of the FLARNG to the Tribal Historic and working for the chairman and Preservation Officer, the Seminole Tribe of Florida. Willard Steele, who in Sally Tommie was the turn presented it to the emcee of this wonderful milestone Tribal Council at the event for the Seminole Tribe’s April Council meeting. chairman. It has been turned over Sally took the wireless to the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki remote microphone to every guest Museum where it will around the tables that offered be safely stored and kept everyone the opportunity to spread for the Tribe. birthday cheer directly towards the In addition to chairman. President Moses Osceola the flag, a coin was pre- remembered how much they sented to the Tribe by enjoyed running around together the Guard representa- growing up as kids on the rez. tives. This coin was One personal friend of his, minted in honor of Kris Lawrence, said to Mitchell, Desert Storm, for the “You may be old but you ain’t Seminole Battalion of cold!” The chairman and everyone the FLARNG. The in the room busted out laughing Battalion received its over this hilarious remark. name and motto through Felix DoBosz Invited guests enjoyed din- Tina Lacey shares a funny saying with the a 1960 Tribal Council ing on fine cuisine exquisitely pre- resolution, signed by Chairman. pared especially for this occasion then Chairman, Billy by the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel Osceola. & Casino staff. Mitchell opened a Felix DoBosz the darkly lit ballroom with Fort Pierce Council few gifts and shared a few more laughs Sandy Selner celebrates birthday wishes with Liaison Sally Tommie by his side. with everyone, especially when he was Chairman Mitchell Cypress. The Seminole Tribune 6 April 28, 2006

Judy Weeks Benny and Michelle prepare to leave the wedding reception. Michelle Osceola and Virgil Motlow Exchange Vows

By Judy Weeks BIG CYPRESS — The Big Cypress First Baptist Church was the scene of a fairy tale wed- ding on April 9 at 1 p.m., when Michelle Lynn Osceola accepted Virgil Benny Motlow’s hand in marriage. The church had been lav- ishly decorated with a palm cov- ered arch and garlands of orchids in anticipation of the occasion. After the ringing of the church bell, the guests could hear the clip clop of horses’ hooves on the pavement as a beautiful white car- riage came into view complete with a driver in black coat and top hat. A matched team of black horses with silver studded harness carried the bride, Michelle Osceola, and her maid of honor Nina Motlow, to the door of the church, where her father, Judy Weeks Marcellus Osceola, waited. With arms entwined the bride and groom toast their union. The bride and groom future for the happy couple before pronounc- ing them man and wife. A wedding reception was held in a white tent on the lawn of the church, where the guests enjoyed a generous buffet catered by Sonny’s Pit Bar-B-Que. The tables were covered in white cloths with red, yellow, black and white floral and ribbon center pieces. The newlyweds locked arms to per- form the traditional toast using champagne flutes filled with iced tea to the enjoyment of their guests. The three tier white wedding cake was frosted in a basket weave pattern with garlands of ruffles and accents of red and yellow flower buds. Between the columned layers were bouquets of orchids, fern and baby’s breath. The top layer held a Seminole Bride and Groom depicting Mr. and Mrs. Motlow. The palm fiber dolls wore tradition- al attire in medicine colors. With hands together the couple cut Judy Weeks the first piece of cake which they shared The bride and groom share the first piece of their wedding before offering their guests to join them. cake. During the serving of the cake, Pastor had chosen Tribal medicine colors of red, yellow, black and white for their nuptials. The bride was a vision of loveliness in a beautiful traditional Seminole dress of these colors and held a bouquet of white orchids. Her maid of honor’s dress contin- ued the same color scheme with accents of turquoise and she carried a cluster of pale yellow orchids. With the sound of the wedding march, the guests rose to watch the bride being escorted down the aisle by her father to join her future husband, Benny Motlow in front of the arch. The groom was attend- ed by his best man Moses Jumper Jr. Jonah Cypress was accompanied by Brenda Hummingbird and Marie Phillips in the performance of two hymns prior to the exchange of vows. Moses Jumper Jr. recited one of his poems, which had been written for just such an occasion. Pastor Salaw Hummingbird offici- ated at the wedding ceremony, where the Judy Weeks bride and groom exchanged rings as a Bride Michelle Osceola poses with her father, Marcellus token of their union. Quoting from the Osceola, and her maid of honor, Nina Motlow, before entering Bible, the pastor offered guidelines to the the church.

Hummingbird passed the microphone around the gathering giving everyone an opportuni- ty to toast or roast the happy couple. Several individuals took advan- tage of the opportunity to reminisce and offer advice for the future. Pastor Howard Micco sang a traditional Creek song in honor of the occa- sion and a number of Tribal elders offered their blessing to the union. Following the reception the newly- weds climbed into their white horse drawn car- Judy Weeks riage, waved farewell Wedding party (L-R): Father of the bride Marcellus Osceola, maid of honor Nina to their guests and Motlow, bride Michelle Osceola Motlow, groom Virgil “Benny” Motlow, best man headed down the road to their future. Moses Jumper Jr., and Pastor Salaw Hummingbird. The Seminole Tribune 7 April 28, 2006 Visiting Seminole Aquaculture By Susan Etxebarria raise and sell turtles. The Tribe assumed operations BRIGHTON — Driving down the long about 15 years ago, says Valentin. dusty road to the headquarters of Seminole Tilapia is a wonderful edible fleshy fish Aquaculture at Brighton reservation the world seems that is close in taste to perch. Tilapia is in high serene; no hubbub of activity is noticeable. You see demand. the wide blue sky contrasting against fields of wild “We have a steady flow of customers who grasses surrounding large rectangular shaped ponds of buy our tilapia fingerlings for restaurants and espe- cially for the Hispanic market,” said Valentin. “The turtle eggs end up in China.” On the day of this interview one cus- tomer drops in with an unexpected order for 35,000 tilapia fingerlings and suddenly there’s lots of activity as workers hustle to harvest the fish for the customer. Seminole Aquaculture is the largest freshwater aquaculture operation in the Southeast United States, according toValentin who has managed the farm since 2002. The operation requires less than 11 employees to function at full force. Valentin says there is only one larger operation which is a 1,000- acre farm in Jamaica. Workers at Seminole Aquaculture perform jobs similar to ranching and farming. Besides the many details involved in raising and tending a crop, they have grasses to mow, fences to mend, out buildings to maintain. One female tilapia reproduces every Susan Etxebarria 120 days and gives birth to 1,000 to 2,000 IT IS IN THE WRIST: Arnaldo Hernandez tosses the castnet into the water. babies yet only 50 percent survive because of predators. One of Valentin’s many duties is to empty. It can take many casts before the day is done. When one is found they know they hit pay dirt. shoo away predators, not kill them. Birds of prey Each day the crew has a standing order to gather Salmon, the assistant director at the farm, picks them include cormorants, wood storks, crane, osprey 400–500 pounds of Tilapia that requires four men to carefully out of the water in the exact same position in and even pelicans fly through cast nets and pull in 100 pounds of fish. The pay is which they lie in the nest and lays them in ice. in large flocks about once a The eggs can not be turned year. Raccoons must be cap- upside down. They are taken back to be tured or killed. Because of the placed in trays of sand in the turtle incu- predators, including human bator, a large wood building that holds ones, Valentin lives on the shelves and shelves of trays. Proper han- premises to protect the grounds dling of the eggs is crucial. The tempera- and aqua crop 24 hours a day. ture of the incubator is 89 degrees. “It’s an adventure,” Unfertilized eggs are sold to be eaten Susan Etxebarria and fertile eggs are hatched and then Ray and Irma Valentin protect the grounds 24 hours a day. he said. “The winds die down and the ponds are really still. they sell the baby turtles. Even though the ponds are This one incubator holds 20,000 tea-colored water. self-aerating, sometimes when the eggs but there was a much bigger incu- But, don’t let the solitude of this 235-acre wind dies down the oxygen gets cut bator room that was destroyed by aqua farm fool you. The signature of Seminole off and for the fish life it is a disaster Hurricane Wilma. The Tribal Council is Aquaculture is its environmentally and ecologically waiting.” hoping to re-open it by August. It costs friendly preserve of abundant wildlife and birds unlike After many windless days $75,000 to remodel the room. most aquaculture operations that are primarily built six months ago Valentin was worried Since Seminole Aquaculture is upon cement with their cemented ponds and cemented about the fish. Then, unexpectedly a Council project, Brighton’s Council vats, says the Director of Aquaculture Ray Valentin. he observed a large cloud of swal- Representative Andy Bowers often visits Here there lows descending on the farm to assess the needs, problems are more than 21 a pond. and profits of the business, says five-acre pounds, and “There Valentin. 10 to 18 ponds 10 “when the wind dies down the might have been “To be a fish farmer is a lot of acres or more in size oxygen gets cut off ... for the 2,000–3,000 birds. responsibility. I have to make sure the that are teeming with They started to cir- farm is well kept. I am responsible for life hidden from fish life it is a disaster waiting cle around the cen- the production, harvesting and supervi- view. Seminole ter of the pond and sion of the people. I feel privileged to Aquaculture’s pri- to happen” made a lot of wind get to work with all of this and the mary crop is hundred and that made the Tribe,” said Valentin. of thousands, perhaps millions, of fish known as pond aerate,” he said. “In my heart I The ponds fan out around the tilapia and soft shellshell turtles; including their pre- said ‘Thank You, God!’ He sent the buildings and many are beautiful places cious turtle eggs. Occasionally they capture, raise and birds to help me.” surrounded by trees and bushes that give sell small gators. One swallow eats about shade and provide catfish, some crappie Susan Etxebarria and tilapia. Often preschool children Despite the isolation, Seminole Aquaculture 2,000 insects a day and on the sur- Ray Valentin and Paulino Garcia check the fish from the last collection. is visited by researchers, other breeders and schools face of the still ponds mosquitoes and older youth are brought to fish wanting to expose students to farm techniques prac- had been swarming to lay their there. ticed in the aquaculture industry. eggs. Valentin encourages Tribal citi- For the aquaculture operation, the Seminole Valentin says Seminole Aquaculture has the higher than many farm worker wages but it is still zens to use their land at Seminole Aquaculture for potential to sell $6 million hard to attract permanent workers, says Valentin. fishing, camping and picnics. His mobile home sits in worth of product a year. Fish are often located with the use of a fish the midst of the commercial area where he can guard “Tilapia is the finder but Valentin has done the work the ponds from predators. He most eaten fish in the often enough himself to have a sec- and his family live there full world,” he said. ond sense of where the fish are “turtle eggs can not be time. Currently his swarming. Keeping the ponds in the turned upside down . . . If anyone has any biggest challenge is find- right balance requires a lot of testing questions Valentin says he is ing and keeping laborers, and checking water temperatures proper handling of the there most of the time along updating equipment and which should maintain an ideal tem- with his wife, Irma, who also remodeling the outbuild- perature for tropical fish of 70 to 90 eggs is crucial” works for the Tribe as the sec- ings and structures in degrees. retary of Seminole Aquaculture. order to capitalize on the Both the tilapia and turtles farm’s potential. are fed twice a week with a fish All of the tilapia food called Nutrena made by raised in the ponds must Cargill. Each pond gets 61 bags of be captured in 20-50 feed. After the feeding of fish is the pound nets and casting best time to cast the nets. If overfed the nets is hard work the tilapia or turtles produce too requiring a strong arm much nitrites and the pond can and back. The worker become chemically imbalanced. The stands on the side of a toxic water will then kill off newly bank to throw the net. It spawned babies so the acidity levels takes a certain kind of tal- needs to be checked often. ent to throw the net so it The turtle farm operation is will arc in the air opening fundamentally the gathering of the like a parachute and eggs, raising turtles from the eggs, Susan Etxebarria or selling the eggs to other breeders. (L-R) Sergio Sanchez, Ray Valentin and Paulino Garcia inspect the 2 pounder . spread out on the water’s surface when it lands. It Digna Salmon has worked for the is preferable to cast the Tribe for many years and is very Tribe of Florida utilizes land that long ago was the net with the wind to help carry the net and get a far- skilled at gathering the eggs. source of shell for building and development on the ther reach. The net sinks into the four-and-a-half foot First they have to be found and flagged. It requires five people reservation. When the digging was finished the pits deep pond. Then it is drawn back to the bank. Susan Etxebarria were converted to another use. Nearly 25 years ago the The net may contain as many as 20 fish with long sticks that line up along Turtle eggs must be extracted and relocated in the same position. Tribe originally leased the land to Chinese investors to weighing one to two pounds each. Or, it may be the bank poking for a bed of eggs. The Seminole Tribune 8 April 28, 2006 The Seminole Tribune 9 April 28, 2006 Memorial Jamboree Held for Junior Buster and Jimmie Roberts By Marlin J. Billie showed all types of uniqueness, from gospel to rock; BIG CYPRESS — The Junior Buster & Singers and music players were: Dan Osceola and Jimmie Roberts Memorial Jamboree was a musical daughter Vivian, Andy Buster, R.C. North, his father memorial for two men that brought their musical talents to whomever they hap- pened to come across. Many people have memories of when Jimmie Roberts would travel to camps and bring his guitar. Junior Buster brought rhythm along with gospel. Music brought smiles and happiness to places where people had been working hard all day. Something to keep togetherness among the families, a bond everyone can relate. Music soothes the soul. Linda Beletso, one of Jimmie Robert’s children, along with Paul Buster, Junior Buster’s son, came together with the thought of bringing several different Seminole musicians to play in Big Cypress. Linda Beletso’s camp is right off Marlin J. Billie the main road, SR 833, which is an origi- Paul Buster, Jessica Buster, R.C. North, Linda Beletso, and nal home site to the family. A large Andy Buster. opened tent, tables and chairs were brought in to help. Paul Buster brought his set up of guitars mics, etc… for everyone to use. Robert playing drums, and Paul Buster and The Eric Bricker Throughout the day, microphone time was Cowbone Band featuring Paul’s daughter, Jessica Clint Bowers and Dewell Johns given to several different people including Linda Buster. Teresa Jumper presented karaoke, bringing Beletso, Jo M. North, Andy Buster along with Paul to out more singers. share some of the memories of either of these men or Talent wasn’t just showcased with music, of their own parents and music with those attending. clothing, jewelry, and all kinds of beaded items were Young Rockers Perform at 4H Show & Sale There were even old guitars displayed that were own- also there. ership of Junior Buster. The memory that musicians The musical memorial was a great way to Submitted by Eric Bricker tonight was all about, young people building confi- of old can create could become plenty for a song. honor men of different times and the pride that they BRIGHTON — The sky over Brighton dence. The different types of music for the day helped generate for future generations. somehow seems larger to me than it does in other Robert North and his son, RC arrived from places. I was thinking about that while I watched the Hollywood. Robert skillfully guided the truck and sun off in the distance to the west. It was burning in a trailer around the crowds of people preparing for the perfect circle, like an orange suspended by a string. sale. Robert stepped out of the truck and looked curi- There was a slight breeze in the air, and the cool felt ously at the stage. Family Fun Day May 18 for good against my face. There was no mistake about it, All six of us quickly moved to the trailer and this was a perfect day, and I was grateful for that. began unloading equipment including drums, hard- It was 3:30 p.m. on March 24, and there was ware, RC’s guitars and amplifier, and the PA sound Seminole Youth/Community nothing left for me to do but wait. I busied myself by system. Robert is the director of development and operations for the Seminole Tribe of Florida Boys & Girls Club. What: Celebrate the end of the school year with the whole family. You will have a chance to He’s also been a drummer since he play together, win exciting prizes, listen to the youth band and meet the people who serve was a young teen. He and I developed the you and your children. idea of a youth prevention program that involved music, and tonight these four youth were going to have the opportunity to show Where: At the Hollywood rez ball field, In front of the Boys & Girls Club the community what they could do. RC went about tuning his guitar and When: Thursday, May 18 adjusted the microphone to the right height. 3:00 – Games and activities for youth and families He had the acumen of a seasoned professional 4:00 – Concert begins with youth bands musician, which is basically what he is. At the age of sixteen, he’s already recorded his own 4:00 – 6:00 Interactive community booths & prizes album and played in front of live audiences in 6:00 – Dinner/Invocation/Brief Speeches/Concert/Raffle three different states. To me, his hallmark is in his ability Sponsored by: Boys & Girls Club, Health, Language & Culture, Recreation, Family write original music that he can actually bring Services, Seminole Police, Education, PAC, Hollywood Council Representative Max Osceola to life through performance. He has an artist’s vision and sense of perfectionism. His unas- & Hollywood Board Representative Gloria Wilson suming nature belies his extraordinary blend of depth, intellect, wit and sincerity. It’s very easy to forget that he’s only sixteen years old. We had the stage all rigged up and ready to go by 5:30 p.m., supper time. All of the guests and participants were called for dinner. Moses Osceola, Seminole Tribe of Florida, Inc., president did the invocation and blessing over the meal. Mike Bond, the exten- sion agent for the 4H program came to the Eric Bricker stage and announced the band to the crowd. Troy Billie Mike and his boss Polly Hayes, 4-H coordinator and longtime Brighton communi- ty member, had been working with us from the beginning. They were the ones who pro- pacing nervously around the small aluminum stage, vided us with the practice space and the opportunity to trying to picture how we were going to fit all six of us play at the livestock sale. I’d say that we had been and our gear on the narrow metal planks. very fortunate to have them working with us. The 4-H barn was brimming with activity as Our set list included classics such as “Folsom the young cowboys and cowgirls prepared their live- Prison Blues” by Johnny Cash, “Simple Man” by stock for the evening’s sale. It was surprisingly quiet Lynyrd Skynyrd, “Bound to the Floor” by Local H, as the participants expertly maneuvered their cows and pigs in and among the pens which were lined up in rows under the shelters, and on the field next to the 4H barn. Dewell Johns and Clint Bowers were the first to arrive. Dewell wasted no time before plugging his amplifier into an outlet, tun- ing up his guitar, and starting to play. “Hey Eric, do you know this one?” he asked. It was the unmistakable open- ing riff to Joe Walsh’s “Life’s Been Good To Me So Far.” As usual, he pretty much nailed it. We sat for a while, tuning up and warming up as Dewell showed me some of his latest material. I smiled to myself as I was thinking that there were few things more gratifying than working with a young person who loves to learn. Clint laid his hard- shell case down on the stage Eric Bricker and flipped open the two R.C. and Robert North latches in a single motion. He opened the case to reveal what looked like a medieval combat weapon, but it “Creep” by Stone Temple Pilots, “Knock’n on was just his new Ibanez bass. It was stained a very Heavens Door” by Bob Dylan, “All Along the cool shade of sunburst, and it had really nice hard- Watchtower” also by Bob Dylan, and an improvised ware. blues jam. The young men played very well and the He plugged in next to Dewell and began show went off without a hitch. plucking away. The stage began to vibrate from the We received lots of applause, particularly bass amplifier’s deep rumble. He sounded really good when each of the young men was introduced by name. and it was easy to see that he had made some pretty When it was all over, we shook hands and congratulat- substantial progress since we all started playing ed each other on the job well done. Dewell’s father, together in December 2005. Marty Johns approached as we packed up Robert’s As usual, Troy Billie was so quiet, I never truck. heard him arrive. “Hey Troy, are we going to hear that Robert greets Marty and says, “Dewell is original song tonight or what?” I asked. Troy shook very talented.” Marty smiles with the unmistakable his head “no” and smiled. pride shared between fathers and sons. He nods his Troy had already told me that he didn’t feel head in approval at the compliment and then states ready to play the song in front of an audience, but I with authority “He ought to be, he spends enough time thought it was worth a try. The truth is that it’s a really at it.” great song, and he wrote it. However, he’s the artist We stayed around for a little while talking and it’s his choice when the song gets played. before Dewell, Troy and Clint went off to be with I wondered if Troy realized how much talent their friends and families. Robert and RC got into the and potential he really had. I remember thinking that truck, waved goodbye, and turned the rig around to he was definitely the kind of young person whose head back to Hollywood. I took off shortly after. ability would take off once he develops more confi- We all left with the same thought in mind: “I dence in himself. After all, for us, that was what can’t wait to do this again.” The Seminole Tribune 10 April 28, 2006 Okeechobee Battlefield Saved For Future Generations By Susan Etxebarria this goal. For a few years a committee TALLAHASSEE, FL — was formed called the “Friends of Governor Jeb Bush and the Florida Cabinet Okeechobee” and they sponsored fantas- agreed Tuesday April 4 to purchase and tic re-enactments. preserve 145.5 acres of land where great The first re-enactment attracted 600 people; by 2004 there were 4,000. Tribal citizen, Sandra Osceola of Brighton, sat on the Board of Directors of the Friends for several years. “I can’t believe it actually happened. This is huge step, a big step, and I hope more Brighton residents will want to get involved in this.,” Osceola said. Osceola said Lorene Gopher and her family had helped a lot and she wanted to emphasize a lot of credit also goes to Shawn Henderson. She really “stayed on this and got it done,” she said. “I got involved on the Board of Directors of the Friends because I am a direct descendent of Abiaka (Alligator) and because of him I am here today,” she said. William Steele, his- toric preservation officer for the Seminole Tribe of Florida, was also present in Tallahassee Painting By Guy LaBree to attend the signing of the Sam Jones “Abiaka” agreement by the governor. Steele said he, and other arche- ologists, have been involved in the ongoing effort to save the Painting By Guy LaBree warriors like Alligator, Coacooche (Wild Okeechobee Battlefield for 21 years but In “Battle of Okeechobee” Guy LaBree paint depicts the battle between Taylor’s troops and the Seminoles. Cat) and Sam Jones (Abiaka) stood up he was quick to point out that through- against the U.S. Army in a violent battle to out the years there have been many oth- defend the freedoms of the Seminole peo- ers. 112. Tribal fairs and festivals. always been the main museum for the ples. He said The U.S. Army killed 11 He said the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Tribe. The Okalee has always been the The site of the Battle of Billy Bowlegs Seminoles and wounded 14. Museum and Museum Director Tina front door to the BC museum,” Steele said. Okeechobee that took place on December III had Once the army was pushed Osceola will be heavily involved. There “What we would like to do is turn the 25, 1837, is a historically important place tried to back from their attack, will be opportunities for the Tribe to guide Okeechobee Battlefield into the front door with much significance for Tribal citizens bring the Indians quickly the state parks in developing appropriate to the Brighton Seminole Reservation.” of the Seminole Tribe. and wisely retreat- programs and offer public events. With the backing of the State This acreage, located on US 441 ed, eventually “The museum in Big Cypress has Parks, the re-enactment may be offered South as you drive past Treasure Island, once again, maybe more than once a year. was becoming a juicy piece of land which “This is an economic opportunity developers eyed for future growth. Now, for local communities to increase tourism. thanks to the efforts of many people over There are people who only tour battle- the years, especially members of the fields,” said Steele. Seminole Tribe, it will become a state The re-enactment of the Civil War park. The focal point of this park’s battle at Olustee, Florida, drew 40,000 attractions will be a living history people this year. museum to memorialize the Seminole Even the federal government has people and the great battle they fought a stake in supporting this kind of project there. and the preservation of historic sites. In “The creation of this new 2003, President George Bush signed an park’s museums and educational com- Executive Order called Preserve America ponents will require great involvement which Steele pointed out to his brother, the and great input from the Tribe,” said Governor. Shawn Henderson, of the President’s In the executive order Section 5 Office of the Seminole Tribe of Florida, reads verbatim: “To the extent permitted Inc. “We are going to have much work to by law and within existing resources, the do, all kinds of committees will be need- Secretary of Commerce, working with the ed.” Council and other agencies, shall assist Henderson began working on States, Indian tribes, and local communi- behalf of the Tribe to help secure these ties in promoting the use of historic prop- lands six years ago and she was present at erties for heritage tourism and related eco- the signing of the agreement in Tallahassee aware- nomic development in a manner that con- to use funds from Forever Florida, a pro- ness of tributes to the long-term preservation and gram designed to preserve endangered the site 44 productive use of those properties. Such lands. years ago when assistance shall include efforts to strength- It will cost the state $3.2 million he brought historians en and improve heritage tourism activities dollars to purchase the lands. Florida State to see the site known to have been the throughout the country as they relate to Parks will then have to plan for roads, camp of Alligator. Federally owned historic properties and bathrooms, campgrounds, offices, kiosks Some say who won the war is in significant natural assets on Federal lands.” and many other features of the park. debate. Don’t buy the exaggerated claims This executive order helped the Henderson wanted all the readers made by General Zachary Taylor to the governor and the cabinet to preserve the to know just how much representatives of War Department in Washington that he Okeechobee Battlefield as well as the fol- state and regional agencies, as well as civic won the battle, said Steele. lowing words in Section 5. leaders in Okeechobee City, Fla. Like Andrew Jackson, “Where consistent with agency have worked to support this Taylor’s political ambition land- missions and governing law, and where project including ed him in the White House in appropriate, agencies shall use historic Okeechobee City 1848; the propaganda he properties in their ownership in conjunc- Councilman Dowling circulated about his victo- tion with State, tribal, and local tourism Watford. Also, she said ries against the programs to foster viable economic part- that State Seminoles led to the nerships, including, but not limited to, Representative nickname “Old Rough cooperation and coordination with tourism Richard Machek, D- and Ready” referring officials and others with interests in the Delray Beach, to Taylor’s boast that The battlefield site is off of the north corner of Lake Okeechobee in Florida, the properties.” deserved appreciation he was ready to parcel of land that was purchased for preservation is shown above left. for his tireless efforts encounter the rough to get the agreement terrain. signed in Tallahassee. “The fact is he moving south to find sanctuary in the “Machek was a lost a lot more soldiers Everglades. major driving force and than the Seminoles. I don’t According to the authors of really had his heart into think the U.S. Army could Seminole Wars by John and Mary this,” she said. “We’ve got- have afforded more victo- Lou Missall “the mission of the ten over a huge, huge hur- General Zachary Taylor ries like that,” said Steele. Seminole warriors had been to slow dle.” The battle the Americans down enough to allow With land prices launched by the U.S. Army the women and children to escape. escalating in Okeechobee pitted 1,000 soldiers The mission accomplished, it was she said “in this day and age of develop- against 400 Indians and their allies, as well time to go.” ment 145.5 acres is a miracle.” as Black marksmen escaping from enslave- Many Seminoles today can trace their personal ancestry to those who fought so valiantly in the Okeechobee Battlefield. It was the last real stand up battle that ended the Second Seminole War. For years there was an uneasy silence from Washington until the eruption of the Third Seminole War which warfare strategy is better character- ized as skirmishes rather than battles. Saving this precious Okeechobee Battlefield from the bulldozer took a lot of persuasion. The National Trust for Historic Preservation joined the effort in 2000. They put the battle- field on their list as one of this country’s 11 most endan- gered historic sites. What sort of things will the Tribe be able to do at the new state park, and who will do it? Steele said there Painting By Guy LaBree has been talk about building Mississippi Volunteers who wore white uniforms were sent in across the marsh first by a museum, and provide liv- Zachary Taylor before his troops came. ing history events such as creating a cooking chickee A purchase of this magnitude ment by Southern plantation owners. and putting on demonstra- Tribune Archives takes a lot of support and there have been Greatly outnumbered, the Seminoles suc- tions of traditional Seminole foods, This recreational map of Lake Okeechobee shows the magnitude of outdoor activity many people dedicated to accomplishing ceeded in killing 26 soldiers and wounding much like the cultural exhibits at the around the lake. The Seminole Tribune 11 April 28, 2006

Chris Jenkins Chris Jenkins Members of the Seminole Police Department share in on the fun in the potato sack race. These two show teamwork and coordination. Hollywood Preschool Field Day By Chris Jenkins or small trophy. HOLLYWOOD — March 24 Parent Sarah Muniz had two was a great day to motivate, encourage kids in this year’s activities; Xiora, 4 friendly competition and have fun, as and Mary Jane, 2. Muniz said the annu- part of the 5th Annual Hollywood al event is great and important toward Preschool Field Day. The event was language skills development and main- held at the Hollywood baseball field for taining customs among peers. infants through age five. The games and “It helps to keep them within activities lasted from 9–11:30 am. the traditions, and helps them interact The parent committee spon- with most of the kids here, and other sored Field Day by raising funds people,” she said. through bake sales, breakfast sales, and The origins of the day came catalog fund raising. T-shirts, tents and from parents and preschool teachers tables were also provided. who decided to do more with the kids First Year Parent Coordinator outside the classroom environment, Chris Jenkins Downa Bell was enthusiastic about the and according to fifth year Preschool It’s a race to the finish as these toddlers show the adults how it’s day and outcome. Director Leona Tommie-Williams, done in the potato sack race. “It’s all positive energy, [the what began as a small get together kids and parents] can come out and involving only a few parents with only have fun,” Bell said. “Its also healthy four games and activities, has blos- and everything is good for the kids.” somed more every year. This year featured seven games Members of the Seminole and activities working on eye, hand and Police Department as well as the foot coordination. The events included: Hollywood Gym have now been funky feet, soccer, the three-legged race, involved for three years. Williams was Chris Jenkins the bean bag toss, mini-golf, the potato confident about the field day’s future Two preschoolers accept their prizes during award presentations. sack race and infant mats. possibilities saying, “Maybe one day in Everyone came out a winner, the future we might compete with other receiving a certificate, necklace, medal, schools on different reservations.”

Chris Jenkins Two participants enjoy their medals after a great day of fun.

Chris Jenkins In one of the Field Day’s new activities, infants get in on the fun with play mats and fun balls.

Chris Jenkins Chris Jenkins Chris Jenkins Ready, aim, throw! She leaves ‘em in the dust! Showing off those soccer skills. The Seminole Tribune 12 April 28, 2006

Making Healthy Changes Seminole Children’s Dental Health Submitted by the Seminole Health Department weeks, and she was the second woman to complete “I know I need to make some changes, but that goal. Her weight loss was a bonus! Poster Contest/Raffle Winners how?” This may be a question you have asked your- To keep making changes, Grace joined our Submitted by the Seminole self or heard someone else ask themselves. Busy Lifestyle Balance Program the next January. Lifestyle Dental Program lifestyles, lack of exercise, fast food, or not enough Balance is a 16 week program designed to help people Congratulations to sleep can all bring havoc to your health, especially if to eat healthier, lower fat foods, increase exercise and Sabre Billie, winner of the you have diabetes. decrease stress. Seminole children’s dental Brighton’s Grace (Youngblood) Koontz has Grace attended class, lowered the fat in her health month activities raffle. made several healthy changes over the past year and a diet, exercised more, and learned some stress manage- Billie received a custom gift ment. She was very successful in Lifestyle basket designed just for her Balance and continued to shed extra pounds. including an iPod® and In October 2005, Grace joined the iPod® protective cover, a pedometer contest again to encourage her Barbie™ B Learning Laptop exercise routine. When Lifestyle Balance and two CD’s. started again in January 2006, not only did Billie’s name was Grace join but she offered to help cook the chosen at random from those healthy meals for the lunchtime meetings. who completed the four des- Grace has maintained her more than ignated activities celebrating 60 pound weight loss to date by continuing Seminole children’s dental to exercise more, cook healthier meals for health month. Activities were her family, make better choices while dining conducted at the Big Cypress out and sticking to her plan. She has made Community Center, the many healthy changes and can see the results Brighton Youth Center, the in her lower blood sugars and not having to Hollywood Boys & Girls take insulin anymore. Club and the Immokalee Healthy habits are attainable, and Youth Center, and included well worth it! Change takes time and the creation of a poster along patience. Start out with a goal and a plan. with dental word puzzles, The goal should be something that you truly searches and games. believe that you are capable of doing. The Children completing plan should be specific, small steps to get each activity received a spe- you from what you are doing now to what cial gift from the dental pro- you would like to do. gram including a light-up “I want to lose weight” is a bit too toothbrush, a tooth-shaped Dental Program general. A better example of a goal would be note pad, a school pencil kit, Raffle winner Sabre Billie (center) and parents Sheila and William Bevenue. “I want to lose 10 pounds, so I can better Health Department manage my diabetes.” (L-R) Grace Youngblood-Koontz and Darin Koontz. It can be overwhelming to set a and a pot and ‘seeded’ tooth to grow goal of losing 25 or 50 pounds. So, breaking forget-me-not flowers. your main goal into smaller goals can really Education advisors from Ft. half and can feel the benefits. Grace joined our help to make it easier to do. In making a plan, saying Pierce, Tampa and Trail as well as pedometer contest in October 2004 and started walk- “I’m going to exercise” is a bit vague. “I’m going to the Field Office in Naples also dis- ing with a goal of 5.7 miles per day. walk five days a week for 30 minutes, after dinner” is tributed dental activities and gifts to The contest goal was 200 miles in five very specific and easier to follow. the school children in their areas. Winners of the poster con- test are: Big Cypress: Bianca Acosta, Katie Bert, Eyanna Billie, Gloria Immokalee Dental Clinic Now Open Brooks, Anthony Cypress and Annabelle Whiteshield; Hollywood: Submitted by the Seminole Dental Program tional on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 9:30 Delia Harjo Tiffany Baker and Jaide The Seminole Dental Program is pleased to a.m.–3:30 p.m. The telephone number to schedule an Micco; Immokalee: Jon Jimmie, and announce that the Immokalee Dental Clinic is now appointment is (239) 867-3410. Keniya Yzaguirre. There is also one open to provide dental and oral health care for resi- If anyone wishes to transfer their dental name unknown winner. dents of the Immokalee and surrounding communi- records to the new clinic, a records transfer form The Seminole Dental ties. must be completed and is available at all community Program would like to recognize and The Immokalee Dental Clinic will be opera- dental clinics. thank Yolanda Valdez, Salina Dorgan, Robert North, Thommy Doud, Gary McInturff, Emma Ask The Counselor Brown, Stephanie Johns, Ericka Cypress, Kristine Frank and all staff Dear Counselor, Dear Lost, that assisted the Dental Program in My sweetheart and I have Rather than worry, devel- Dental Program making this year’s Seminole chil- been living together for four years; op a strategy to outwit that intrud- Sabre Billie (left) with Yolanda Valdez, assistant director of the Big dren’s dental health something to we have a good relationship and ing computer so that you can get Cypress Community Center. cheer. plan to marry. However and there what you want and need while always seems to be a “however” reeling in your partner’s obses- when it comes to men–he appears sion. Make him shut down his to be addicted to the computer, and computer and talk, face- to face. it goes far beyond his just working Don’t scream, don’t nag, at home. but discuss your concerns. Tell him He spends all of his time you need more of his time and and waking hours on the computer, attention, which you can’t get which he has given a pet name .If when he’s constantly glued to the we’re watching a game or a movie, computer. he has the computer in front of With your partner, set him. I’ve awakened and found him aside a period each week when the in bed–with his computer. two of you can enjoy uninterrupted I’ve checked and he’s not time together. One week you decide in the chat rooms or visiting porno what you two will do; he decide the sites. In fact, he only e-mails when next week .Computer- related its work related. activities should be off- limits. I care a lot about, him, In addition, you should but I’m beginning to wonder if this love affair with his develop your own hobbies so that you won’t feel neg- computer is going to delete me from a meaningful lected when he’s with his other love. place in his life. Counselor, should I be worried? Signed, Signed, Counselor Lost The Seminole Tribune 13 April 28, 2006

Nutrition and Dental Health Submitted by the Seminole Dental label–be cautious. Many snacks claim to The Healthy Program be low in fat, or have no fat. But a review March was National of the food label will probably tell you that Nutrition Month. Good it is high in sugar and calories. nutrition plays an One or two snacks a day Senior important role in good is okay, but choose tooth friendly dental health. Frequent snacks such as fresh fruits and By Fred Cicetti snacking of sugary good- vegetables or cheese. These choic- [Editor’s Note: Fred Cietti is a syndi- ies and drinks increases es will also be better for your overall cated columnist who writes about the risk of developing health! issues concering senior citizens’ health. tooth decay. For more information The opinions he expressed are his own. If Some snacks about Nutrition and Dental you would like to ask a question, please have “hidden sugars.” Health, please contact the write [email protected]. All Rights 3. Corn syrup, high fructose Seminole Dental Reserved © 2006 by Fred Cicetti] Avoid jerk- corn syrup, modified corn- Program: Big Cypress: ing or thrust- starch, and maltose are all sugar. If (863) 983-5151, Brighton : Q. I’ve been told I should exer- ing move- you see one of these terms listed as (863) 763-0271, Hollywood : (954) 964- cise more, but I’m afraid that at my ments. one of the first ingredients on a food 3411 and Immokalee : (239) 867-3400. age (73) I might damage something. 4. Am I safer as a couch potato? Avoid locking the joints of your All the current scientific evi- arms and legs into dence shows that geezers should exercise, a strained position. even though many older people think it 5. Some could harm them. Study after study soreness and slight demonstrates that seniors hurt their health fatigue are normal a lot more by being sedentary. after muscle-building If you’re inactive, you deterio- exercises. Exhaustion, rate. Physical activity can help restore sore joints, and painful your capacity. Most older adults, regard- muscle pulls are not less of age or condition, will benefit from normal. increasing physical activity to a moderate 6. Always warm level. up before stretching exer- Warning: If you want to begin a cises. new exercise program, you should consult 7. Stretching your physician and request a list of exer- should never cause pain, cises that are best for your age and physi- especially joint pain. cal condition. 8. Never bounce into Four types of exercise are impor- a stretch; make slow steady tant for your health. These are exercises movements instead. for strength, balance, stretching and 9. To prevent injuries, endurance. use safety equipment such as hel- Strength exercises build muscle mets for biking. and raise your metabolism. Doing these 10. You should be able to exercises will help to keep your weight talk during endurance exercises. down. Measuring your progress can Balance exercises help prevent motivate you. Test yourself before falls and, therefore, will keep you from starting to exercise to get a baseline breaking yourself and losing your inde- score. Test and record your scores each pendence. Each year, U.S. hospitals have month. The following are some tests you 300,000 admissions for broken hips; can use, if your doctor approves. many of them are the result of falls. For endurance, see how far you Stretching exercises give you can walk in exactly six minutes. For more freedom of movement. And lower-body strength, time yourself as you endurance exercises raise your pulse and walk up a flight of stairs as fast as you breathing. can safely. For upper-body strength, Here are 10 tips to make any record how much weight you lift and how exercise program safe: many times you lift that weight. For bal- 1. Don’t hold your breath during ance, time yourself as you stand on one strength exercises. This could affect your foot, without support, for as long as pos- blood pressure. sible. Have someone stand near you in 2. When lifting weights, use case you lose your balance. Repeat the smooth, steady movements. Breathe out test while standing on the other foot. as you lift or push a weight, and breathe Remember, above all, exercise in as you relax. should make you feel better. The Seminole Tribune 14 April 28, 2006 The Seminole Tribune 15 April 28, 2006

Education Preschool Staff Attend Ooey, Gooey Lady Seminar By Judy Weeks ESTERO, FL — Immokalee Preschool Manager Michelle Ford and two members of her staff, Elva “Bay” Montez and Rosa Garcia, took advantage of a golden opportunity when they attended a workshop with the “Ooey, Gooey Lady.” The Early Childhood Association of Florida brought Lisa Murphy to Lee and Collier Counties and scheduled her presen- tation at the Three Oakes Conference Center on Feb. 22. Murphy has been an early child- hood educator for more than 15 years and has worked with children in a variety of environments including Head Start Programs, private preschools, family child care and kindergartens. She acquired her nickname, “Ooey-Gooey Lady,” when she Submitted by Judy Weeks was asked to give an impromptu presenta- Computer class at Immokalee Library (L-R): Michelle Ford, Rosa Garcia, Amy Clay, Judy Weeks, Jasmine tion at a convention. With no subject in Porter, Tushka Hill, Instructor Roger Fabel, and Juanita Martinez. mind, she quickly saved the day by intro- ducing a child craft idea, which proved to be extremely beneficial in developing childhood skills. Michelle Ford Computer Classes on the Rez Tom and Lisa Murphy created an Preschool cook Elva “Bay” Montez looking at booths. By Judy Weeks have requested that the classes be offered again for educational consulting firm in 1997 to Education has been called the key to the door those who started late or would like to refresh their bring high-energy, exciting and informa- of the future, and this old adage has been proven true memories. tive hands-on workshops to teachers, directors, parents importance of early experiences and how play is over and over again. A wise elder once said, “I learn Whether you are a beginner to the world of and family childcare providers. They promote environ- kindergarten readiness. The discussion revolved something every day and when I stop learning my life technology and have never touched a computer or ments where children are actively engaged in real, around seven things that care providers need to do will be over.” have considerable experience, the classes will definite- with children each day and With these thoughts in mind, the Seminole ly be of benefit. how to introduce them into Tribe of Florida attempts to provide its members with In Computer 101, you will learn about the the schedule: create, move, every possible opportunity to help them succeed in the instrument itself, its components and capabilities. By sing, discuss, observe, read fast paced world of the 21st Century. the time you have completed 401, you will know how and play. Currently computer classes are being offered to prepare spread sheets, format and program your As a speaker, on some of the reservations through the Family computer to your individual needs. Murphy was very well Services department. Adult Vocational Administrator Have you ever felt that your computer is informed, humorous, interest- Jasmine Porter can be contacted in her Hollywood smarter than you? Now is the time to even the odds ing and captivated her audi- office by calling (954) 965-1300, Ext. 175; to locate and take control. Have you had to ask for assistance ence. The participants were the class closes to you. when your computer seems to lock up, sent messages given an opportunity to get The classes are free to all adult tribal mem- you don’t understand or taken forever to compile and information about educational bers, but you must be at least 18 years of age to print forms and data sheets? Even the most experi- degrees from Florida Gulf attend. The small, friendly groups meet for two four- enced individual will be surprised by some of the Coast University and the ben- hour sessions each month giving you an opportunity to short cuts and benefits that can be derived by simply efits of membership in Early absorb and put into use what you have learned before pressing a key or using the mouse as an extension of Childhood Association of trying to take on more information. your hand and mind. Florida (ECA) and National Instructor Roger Fabel of Protech Computer Many people remark, “I have lived a whole Association for the Education Systems has an extensive background in teaching lifetime without a computer and I am doing just fine.” of Young Children (NAEYC). computer skills as well as their engineering and con- They probably will continue to do so, but by While this was not a struction. He presents the information in a very laid- learning about this modern technology, they can open required class, all three mem- back and easily comprehended manner during his dis- the door to a whole new world and broaden their hori- bers of the Immokalee course and willingly answers questions and helps to zons. There is no limit to the information and enter- Preschool staff welcomed the solve your computer issues. tainment that will be right at their fingertips. Submitted by Judy Weeks opportunity to attend. They A group in Immokalee have just completed a Don’t miss out on this opportunity of a life- (L-R) Preschool Teacher Rosa Garcia, Preschool Cook Elva “Bay” Montez, enjoyed the workshop four month series attending Computer 101 through time! Call today to reserve a space for you in the next “Ooey, Gooey Lady” Lisa Murphy, and Immokalee Preschool Center immensely and learned a 401. The program was so well received that applicants session. You will find it very rewarding. Manager Michelle Ford. number of things that they can use on the job. In addi- tion, they were able to earn Students Excel in School Public Speaking Competition meaningful experiences, not “cute” fluffy time fillers. continuing education units to renew their child devel- The subject of her presentation was the opment associate credentials and director’s credentials. By Emma Brown wide competition coming up in May. BRIGHTON — Everett Youngblood, Each of these students are to be commended Acealyn Youngblood and Steven Johns-Ashley are all for their confidence that enabled them to speak in students at Seminole Elementary who recently partici- front of their peers, which is not easy for many stu- pated in their classroom 4-H/Tropicana Public dents. Congratulations go to each of them and good Speaking competition where each of them earned first luck to Steven at the upcoming county competition. place. This contest is held district wide for fourth and fifth graders to help sharpen their public speaking skills. By placing in their classroom com- petition they earned a spot to compete in the school wide competition held on April 13. Everett Youngblood is the fourth grade son of Kelly and Kim Youngblood from Brighton. His speech was about “his people,” the Seminoles and their culture. Acealyn Youngblood is the fourth grade daughter of Robert and Brenda Youngblood of Brighton. Her speech was titled “My Native Life” and expressed her feelings on what being Native American means to her. Steven Johns-Ashley is the son of Amy Johns of Brighton and Ray Ashley of Arizona. He gave his speech on the life of a wolf. Not only did Steven earn first place in his classroom competition, but he went on to Emma Brown win second place overall in the school wide Everett Youngblood competition earning him a spot at the county

Chris Jenkins Broward Police Academy graduate, Allen Colon (third from left) poses with officers from the Seminole police department and new co-workers (l to r- Sgt. Laura Herron, Deputy Chief William Latchford and Lt. Phil Gonzalez).

Colon says this is just the first step in his Service Aide climb up the ranks, his plan is to grow and gain expe- Continued from page 1 rience for one year as a police service aide, then begin the five month process of training to become a sworn The specific duties involved with his job are police officer. Thereafter, Colon wants to maintain at to serve on traffic and crash scene investigations, least a 15 year career on the squad. Once his bad guy respond and answers delayed emergency calls and chasing days are behind him, he wants to pursue a enforce ordinance and parking laws. career in tribal politics and administration. The Seminole Tribune 16 April 28, 2006 The Seminole Tribune 17 April 28, 2006

Marlin J. Billie Seminole Youth Basketball players washing cars. BC Youth Basketball Team Car Wash & Cookout By Marlin J. Billie are Seminole Tribal members,” said attending to that no one thinks about. BIG CYPRESS — During the Osceola. “This is one of the ways we share The pressure machine that was Ahfachkee School’s Spring Break the and spend time with them to let them know loaned to the kids to wash the cars and the youth basketball players set their sights on that their hard work is appreciated.” space at the gym was greatly appreciated. fundraising. William Lee Jumper coaches the Thanks to Seminole Tribal leaders for their Coach Eddie Redd, led the group 14 year and younger girls team, and support during the basketball season and as they huddled at the gym and started the Bronson Hill coaches the 14 year old and during this fundraiser, such as Chairman car washing. First, they had to get cars and younger boys team. Not all of the team- Mitchell Cypress, Councilman David trucks to pull in. Signs were made and the mates come from Big Cypress either; they Cypress, Board Representative Paul traffic in front of the gym was being come from all reservations and non-resi- Bowers, Councilman Max B. Osceola Jr. stopped and asked “To earn money by dents. and Councilman Andy Bowers Jr. Also, washing their car or truck, or a donation Everyone meets at the place of the thanks to everyone who showed some kind would also help.” tournament, whether it’s Tampa or of support is greatly appreciated. The community came to the call Jacksonville or North Carolina these play- The youth basketball teams are of the youth and their desire to get out and ers and parents arrive in time to play–and currently in the traveling mode these week- put in a little hard work for the good of the play they do. Most of the time all teams ends. They bring home trophies from dif- rest of the team. place either first or second, trophies to ferent parts of the state, these are open Justin Osceola coaches one of the prove it too! youth tournaments with AAU and other four youth teams that range in age from 10 There are many people who the qualifying credentials. years old and younger, 12 years old and coaches want to thank for helping out with If anyone wants more information younger, and a girls and boys 14 year old the groundwork that made this possible, about these teams or wish to travel with and younger. including the many volunteers who donat- them as they continue their dominance call “Even though the youth basket- ed hours to cook, bake and barbecue. Also, Eddie Redd, (863) 983-9659, at the Big ballers carry the Seminole Big Cypress volunteers who helped transport when Cypress Recreation department. He can name to all the tournaments around the players need to be at different gyms or give out information about schedules or the state, not all of the players and volunteers when someone is sick and all that needs next game or even trying out for the team. Relay For Life in Immokalee By Judy Weeks bounce house as well IMMOKALEE — The as aerobics and Immokalee High School Track was the organized laps center of activity on March 10–11. At this around the tract. time the community joined together in the A luminaria Relay For Life in support of the American ceremony took place Cancer Society. at 9 p.m. followed by Started in 1985 by Dr. Gordon Nightspiker™, a Klatt, a Tacoma, Wash., colorectal surgeon, glow-in-the-dark vol- it has become an annual fund raiser to sup- leyball game. In port cancer research and education as well between laps around as a celebration for cancer survivors. the tract throughout Communities throughout the U.S. have the night, several become involved and offer their over- diversions were whelming support of the mission of the planned: Campsite American Cancer Society. contest, crazy paja- This is Immokalee’s first year of mas, crazy hats, participation in the Relay for Life and they Limbo, Trivial have entitled it the Harvest For Hope. Pursuit®, reverse Nutritionist Charlotte Porcaro of the laps and bad hair Seminole Tribe was instrumental in form- contests. ing Team Seminole and helping to put the A pancake relay together. A booth was set up by Team breakfast hosted by Seminole and manned by Porcaro both the Immokalee days to offer information to the community Ministerial Submitted by Judy Weeks about cancer prevention, early detection Association took Michelle Ford made several laps during the relay. and treatment. place at 7 a.m. and

the Ronald McDonald Care Mobile gave growth and development screening for children. Various contests were organized to occupy participants throughout the morning, with a Ceremony of Hope and the Closing Relay at noon. Team Seminole distributed red T- shirts to each of it members and celebrated a very good turnout. Michelle Ford of the Immokalee Seminole Preschool walked for over an hour and a half, while one of her teachers, Rosa Garcia, took first place in the number of laps walked. She completed 30 laps which totaled more than seven- and-a-half miles on March 11. A special thank you to each of the relay teams who provided the amenities which made this such a success: bounce house, pins, bracelets, necklaces, ice cream, sweets, games, smoothies, breakfast burritos, subs, hamburgers, popcorn and other refreshments. At the conclusion of the Relay for Life, Immokalee participants had raised a Michelle Ford sum total of $22,000 in support of the Chelsey Ford (center) participating in the aerobics class at the Relay for Life. American Cancer Society.

The Seminole Tribe’s Massage Therapist Tracey Delarosa, was on hand with her chair to offer free therapy to the participants and encourage them to develop a healthy and safe exercise routine. Knowing and caring for your body can go a long wait toward prevention and detection of some types of cancer. Immokalee Council Liaison Ralph Sanchez made a generous con- tribution on behalf of the Seminole Tribe of Florida to kick off the dona- tions. Edna McDuffie, captain of Team Seminole, was on hand Friday evening at 5 p.m. for the registration and opening ceremonies. Immokalee High School Principal Manny Touron offered opening remarks, led the Victory Lap and the Caregiver Recognition. Numerous activities were planned for the event which lasted until noon on March 12. These Submitted by Judy Weeks included a kids area with coloring, Members and employees of the Seminole Tribe of Florida proudly participated in the story time, scavenger hunt and Cancer Society’s Relay for Life in Immokalee. The Seminole Tribune 18 April 28, 2006

Attention All 2006 Rez Rally EIRA Rodeo Event in Brighton Participants By Susan Etxebarria vided by Marki Rodeo, a superior stock him a fun contestant to watch. BRIGHTON — The Eastern owned and managed by Seminole Tribal There were no contestants who Below is a list of participants who need to contact Melanie Wells of the Indian Rodeo Association (EIRA) season is citizen Marti Johns. It was a challenging placed in steer wrestling; the bulls just got Health department at (954)962-2009, Ext. 161 about midway to finals in October. night for the contestants with the majority the best of them. Brighton hosted an EIRA event on April 8 getting bucked off angry horses and bulls Warbonnet’s brother, Cort Elisa Moore at the Fred Smith Rodeo Arena featuring before their time limit. No one scored in Herrera, placed first in calf roping barely Dwayne Hughes Seminole cowboys and cowgirls and visit- the bull riding event. beating out Josh Jumper who came in sec- Ashley Parker Although most entries were ond. Shamy Tommie from Brighton and Big Cypress, In the women’s breakaway, Tasha Osceola there were five entries that traveled Pauletta Bowers placed first, with 10 Nupa Twoshoes from states as far away as points and with her seven point win in the Jessica Osceola Washington, Oregon, and New team roping heelers. She also received the Jim Russell Mexico–members of the Navajo, highest all around score of 19 points. A Levi Battiest Navajo/Shinnecock and White second close in all around was Shelby Alexander Tommie Swan/Yakima Tribes. One family Osceola with 17 points, for her eight points Kowak Billie drove down from New York so Darryl Billie their son, Adam Phillips, could participate in junior bull riding. The evening started off with non-sanctioned events for the youngsters. There were remarkable first place10 point performances by Ahnie Jumper in the mutton bustin, Blevins Jumper in calf riding, Andre Jumper in pony riding and steer riding, Kalgary Johns, Henry Susan Etxebarria Anuthkee and Janae Braswell Naha Jumper in barrel racing; Seth Randolph in junior bull biding, Dalton Boney in junior breakaway and ing rodeo riders from as far away as New Jacoby Johns in junior bareback. York, Oregon and Arizona. These and all the youngsters who “It was a smaller rodeo this competed in junior events are the Susan Etxebarria month, but a good one.” said EIRA ones to be watching for future cham- Pauletta Bowers and Alfonso Tigertail Secretary Jo Leigh “Boogie” Jumper. pions. By this time of year Florida in women’s rodeos have breakaway fewer entries and her nine as Western points in bar- states start to rel racing. kick off An Indian rodeo upcoming star when the in the arena weather gets was Brighton milder. Rodeo Queen That LeAnna left most of Billie. This the field high school open to senior is real- Seminole ly showing contestants. some amazing The faithful Susan Etxebarria skills in barrel turned out. Perrie Whidden racing. She Jumper said rode a new the Tribe has Susan Etxebarria gray horse she dedicated Paul Bowers Jr., Naha Jumper, and Justin In the sanc- has never rode in competition. competitors. Gopher. tioned events, “She really had to work with it, Freddie Warbonnet ride it many hours, and she brought it “When it comes to winning rodeo took first place in the bareback riding around,” said Boogie Jumper. you know if you got what it takes, and if event Warbonnet is a White Swan Yakima The 10 point winner in team rop- you do, it’s in your blood,” she said. Indian who now lives in Pendleton, Ore. ing headers was Josh Jumper. Naha Jumper The stock Friday night was pro- He has a showman’s kind of flair making won 10 points in the team roping heelers. The Seminole Tribune 19 April 28, 2006

Miranda vs. Eastman on Friday Night Fights By Chris Jenkins The co-featured bout was an HOLLYWOOD — One of the North American Boxing Federation best entertainment venues for the money (NABF) championship match-up, as the was on display Mar 24, as Warriors champ, Felix Cora Jr., faced Darnell Boxing Promotions, Inc., and the Hard Wilson in cruiserweight action. Cora Jr. Rock Hotel & Casino teamed up again defended his title winning a very com- to feature seven great bouts on the slate petitive, evenly matched 10 round unan- as part of ESPN2’s Friday Night Fights imous decision. coverage. This became the replacement The main bout featured Edison bout for the original co-feature as for- “Pantera” Miranda at 25-0 (23 KOs) mer world champ and future hall of facing Howard “The Battersea Bomber” famer, Hector “Macho” Camacho was Eastman at 40-3 (34 KOs). This match to face super middleweight Keith Sims. was known and hyped as “the elimina- Camacho was forced to pull out of the tor” with the winner laying claim to the fight due to a strained Achilles heel number one spot in the 160 pound mid- injury from a sparring session. dleweight rankings, and a shot at current Camacho expressed deep regrets about International Boxing Federation (IBF) Felix DoBosz Felix DoBosz his condition. middleweight champ, Arthur Abraham. Darnell Wilson gets a right handed jab to the cheek of NABF Edison Miranda catches opponent Howard Eastman with a “I apologize to the fans… I As a young and hungry upstart, champ, Felix Cora Jr. in the co-featured bout. left jab en route to his 7th round TKO win. want to come out here and perform,” and newest addition to the Warriors Camacho said. “This type of injury you Boxing family, Miranda put on a show have to give it time and wait and see for the Hard Rock crowd in his last what happens. I want to do this to have action, making short work of Sherwin fun, I’m not here to prove anything, I Davis in a third round KO in a sched- might have, what, maybe one or two uled 12 in Sept. of 2005. Eastman lost a more years left, and then I’m done.” hard fought 12 round unanimous deci- Both Warriors Boxing and sion to the aforementioned champ, Camacho hope to have a makeup match Abraham, last July. for him, possibly in May. So, it was young lion versus The celebrity scene saw old as Miranda, 25, faced the seasoned appearances by Miami Dolphins Jason veteran Eastman, 35, which proved to Taylor, Randy McMichael and Kevin be a hard fought dogfight through seven Carter. Others in attendance were rounds. After feeling one another out English heavyweight contender, Audley early, both fighters established a surge Harrison and Hector Camacho who of momentum in the third with good addressed the crowd regarding his jabs and flurries. inability to fight. The action picked up toward Seminole Tribal leadership the end of round five however, and showed their support and enthusiasm as Eastman was in trouble from a few hard Felix DoBosz Felix DoBosz well, including Chairman Mitchell rights by Miranda, one which caught NABF champ, Felix Cora Jr., gets in a left jab to the face of Edison Miranda and training staff celebrate after his 7th Cypress and Big Cypress him in the back of the ear. Eastman opponent, Darnell Wilson. round TKO win versus Howard Eastman. Representative David Cypress, among countered in the sixth, and by the end of others. the round, the tide turned as Miranda Other bouts on the schedule was saved by the bell, wobbled and were: Jesus Pabon over Marcus weary. Breshears in a unanimous four round The seventh was the climax, as decision for lightweights, Warriors both traded hits, in the end though, heavyweight Timur Ibragimov winning Miranda gained the edge cornering by TKO versus Ken Martin Craven in Eastman and letting loose with a blast two rounds, Matthew Thirlwall over of jabs and overhands wearing him Moises Martinez in a scheduled six down. The fight was stopped at the 2:33 rounds, which was stopped at the 1:40 mark. mark (of the sixth) in light mid- Miranda received the win by dleweight action, Jean Baptiste over TKO and is slated now to face the Eric Batista in light middleweight champ Abraham in September. Warriors action in a unanimous six round deci- Executive Director Leon Margules said sion, and Danny Jimenez over Jean he was excited and enthusiastic about Petit Homme in a unanimous decision Miranda’s performance. in four rounds of lightweight action. “A star was born tonight,” said The next scheduled action set Margules. “One guy’s going down the Felix DoBosz for the Hard Rock and Warrior’s is May mountain, the other guy’s going over Felix DoBosz Seminole Tribe of Florida Chairman Mitchell Cypress poses 18. him.” Edison Miranda and Howard Eastman square off in the early with a victorious and exhausted Edison Miranda and training rounds of the main event. staff. The Seminole Tribune 20 April 28, 2006

Spring Senior Trikefest Submitted by the Health Department citizens and staff sat down to a delicious, healthful BIG CYPRESS — The Spring Senior meal provided by Cleve Baker and the Renegade Trikefest, held March 30 at the Big Cypress airfield, Barbeque Company. was a rousing success. Competing seniors from all Following the meal, Chairman Cypress joined reservations arrived dressed up, geared up and ready emcee Stan Frischman of Big Cypress Recreation, in drawing special attention to Best the “Best Decorated Rez Trike” category. All the hard Dressed Triker work and creative effort put into each bike design could 1st - Nancy Frank be seen in the finished piece. 2nd - Mary Sanchez First place was awarded to 3rd - George Billie Immokalee for an inspired 4th - Rachel Billie “Culture Trike” which fea- 5th - Nancy tured intricate patchwork, Motlow dolls and baskets hand sewn in medicine colors by sever- al seniors. Second place went to the Tampa seniors for their “Leather and Nery Mejicano Beadwork Trike” complete Tampa’s leather and beadwork trike. with majestic Seminole dolls depicting a cul- turally attired man and woman. The judges gave Big Cypress the nod for third place for their “Bunny Health Department Trike” The Hollywood Constitution trike. decorated in the spir- it of the to ride, eager to take the prestige, trophies and prizes Easter holiday. The bunny was back to their own reservation. Last year Brighton took dressed in Tribal clothing complete the team trophy. This year there was no stopping with a basket of Easter goodies. An Hollywood as they pedaled their way to victory and honorable mention was given to both first place in the point standings for 2006. Brighton and Hollywood for their trike The program opened with fashion and flair as decorating efforts. Hollywood reservation’s the judges chose the “Best Dressed Triker”. First place “Constitution Trike” was most distinguished in went to Nancy Frank of Tampa for her black leather it’s commemoration of the original Seminole Harley® style attire. Next on the agenda was the much Tribe of Florida’s Constitution Committee. Chairman anticipated main event. It was here that the previous Cypress offered words of praise for this group of lead- five months of practice since the Fall Trikefest in ers who helped to set the stage for the success and November was evident. Contestants pushed their independence the Seminole Tribe enjoys today. Along endurance and skill to meet the challenge of the newly with its riveting black and white photo of the Health Department designed spring course. The 2006 program included a Constitution Committee, the Constitution Trike, also BEST DRESSED TRIKERS: (L-R) Linda Henry, Rachel Billie, Mary Sanchez, Nancy Motlow, Betty fast paced rez team relay, followed by the ball toss, included a basket loaded to the brim with historic Osceola, Nancy Frank and George Billie. the maze and figure 8 categories. These events Seminole staples including fruits and vegetables, demanded agility, coordination and intense concen- tration. Each category was divided into senior, super senior and golden senior divisions and trike (trïk) n: a vehicle with three awarded prizes for first through fifth place. Competition was fierce, but healthy enjoy- ment was the main goal. Laughter echoed through- wheels that is moved by foot pedals. out the hangar as the elders pedaled through the course and pulled off their best moves on wheels. The Trike Program was initiated and sponsored by the Chairman’s Office in conjunction with the Senior Center on each reservation. “Some people are not capable or comfortable walking, the trikes are an enjoyable way to get some exercise”, commented Chairman Mitchell Cypress, who participates in the Big Cypress Senior Center rides weekly. The chairman was Best on hand for the Trikefest Decorated Rez and could be seen strate- Health Department gizing with his team in The Hollywood trike had meals on wheels. Trike an effort to achieve the best time and win the 1st Place Trophy relay contest. President Immokalee Moses Osceola, Big tobacco, corn and grain for Sofkee. Mabel Doctor 2nd Place Trophy Cypress Representative joked that Hollywood’s design team had thought about Tampa David Cypress and including Spam in the basket as a Seminole staple. 3rd Place Trophy Brighton Representative The Spring Trikefest evolved through the Big Cypress Andrew Bowers were also dedicated effort of many people. Vicky Barogiannis, present to join in the festivities Fitness Director, was happy to see so many seniors get Health Department and cheer for their teams. As the involved in the event, “I would like to thank Chairman Joe Osceola Jr. leads the group. morning came to a close, competi- Cypress for sponsoring the Trikefest and all the other tion was put to the side as the Tribal See TRIKE, page 21

Health Department (L-R) The Cypress brothers and Ronnie Doctor.

Health Department Helene Buster and Charles Billie Hiers.

Nery Mejicano Nery Mejicano The Tampa trike basket toting Seminole dolls. The Immokalee Culture trike. The Seminole Tribune 21 April 28, 2006

Contest Results Ball Toss Hollywood; Golden Seniors: 1. Seniors: 1. Nancy Motlow, Jimmy Hank Osceola, Hollywood, Immokalee, 2. Mitchell Cypress, 2. Mary Gay Osceola, Hollywood, Big Cypress, 3. Alice Sweat, 3. Howard Micco, Brighton, 4. Brighton, 4. Cornelia Osceola, Hollywood, 5. Peggy Cubis, Tampa; Super Seniors: 1. Joe Billie Jr., Big Cypress, 2. Ronnie Doctor, Hollywood, 3. Ruby Osceola, Big Cypress, 4. Maydell Osceola, Hollywood, 5. Martha Jones, Brighton; Golden Seniors: 1. Betty Osceola, Hollywood, 2. Onnie Osceola, Brighton, 3. Health Department Jimmy Hank George Billie Osceola, Hollywood, 4. Linda Henry, Tampa, 5. Jack Micco, Brighton, 5. Wonder Spring Mary Moore, Johns, Brighton. Hollywood. Double Figure 8 Trike Fest 2006 Seniors: 1. Joe Osceola Jr., Maze: Hollywood, 2. Maydell Osceola, Traveling Trophy Seniors: 1. Joe Hollywood, 3. Mabel Doctor, Osceola Jr., Hollywood, 4. Lawanna Niles, 1st Place Hollywood, 2. Jenny Hollywood, 5. Mitchell Cypress, Hollywood - 73 Johns, Brighton, 3. Big Cypress; Super Seniors: 1. 2nd Place Mitchell Cypress, Big Ronnie Doctor, Hollywood, 2. Brighton - 47 Cypress, 4. Alice Ronnie Doctor, Hollywood, 3. 3rd Place Sweat, Brighton, 5. Martha Jones, Brighton, 4. Mabel Tampa - 16 Jack Smith, Brighton; Doctor, Hollywood, 5. Martha Super Seniors: 1. Jones, Brighton; Golden Seniors: Lawanna Niles, 1. Onnie Osceola, Brighton, 2. Hollywood, 2. Ronnie Jack Micco, Brighton, 3. Betty Doctor, Hollywood, 3. Martha Osceola, Hollywood 4. Jimmy Nery Mejicano Jones, Brighton, 4. Mabel Doctor, Hank Osceola, Hollywood, 5. Tampa’s Pink Panthers share a laugh with the chairman. Hollywood, 5. Maydell Osceola, Mary Moore, Hollywood. Trike Continued from page 21

departments for helping to make this a success”. Health department staff was on hand assisting wher- ever needed, as BC Clinic Manager Cindy Ledbetter kept a watchful eye to insure participants did not over-exert them selves. The Big Cypress Senior Center was the perfect host providing a continental breakfast and plenty of staff on hand to be sure everybody had whatever they needed to stay comfort- able and happy. Recreation’s Stan Frischman summed it up by commenting how nice it was to see the seniors enjoy each others company as they gath- ered together from each reservation. Stan also thanked the Seminole Aviation Department for their help and the use of their facilities. Look for the next Senior Trikefest to be held in November.

Nery Mejicano Brighton Culture trike.

Nery Mejicano The trikers lined up for competition.

Health Department The back of the winning trike.

Health Department Chairman Cypress presents the trophy to BC’s Kool Seniors. Health Department Lawanna Niles

Relay Race Competition Winners 1st - Hollywood 28.44 2nd - Brighton 30.47 3rd - Big Cypress 32.25 Health Department 4th - Immokalee 35.44 (L-R) Barbara Akin, Linda McCarthy and Health Department Nery Mejicano 5th - Tampa 44.88 President Moses Osceola takes a break. The Immokalee traveling trike chickee. Cindy Ledbetter. The Seminole Tribune 22 April 28, 2006

Bob Dylan, Merle Haggard at Hard Rock Live Submitted by Julianne Carelli, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino HOLLYWOOD — Bob Dylan and Merle Haggard will be performing on May 11, the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino’s second anniversary, at Hard Rock Live at 8 p.m. Tickets went on sale March 31 at noon. Tickets cost $60, $100, $150 and $200; all seats are reserved and available at the Hard Rock Live Box Office or through Ticketmaster. Hard Rock Live Box Office is open online at www.ticketmaster.com daily from noon until 7 p.m. or charge by phone: Miami- Tickets purchased in-person at Dade (305) 358-5885, Broward the box office will not incur a (954) 523-3309, and Palm service charge. Beach (561) 966-3309. Doors Tickets also are avail- open one hour prior to show able at all Ticketmaster outlets start time. Eighth Annual NAMMYs at Hard Rock Live Felix DoBosz announced Nancy Wilson of the legendary rock band Heart jams on her guitar at the Seminole Hard Rock Live. Awards Show Presented By More than 150 national recordings were sub- Seminole Hard Rock Hotel mitted for nomination. Registered advisory board members are selecting the final nominees which were & Casino announced on April 15. With native roots from Alaska 1970s Band Heart Comes to the Live to New Zealand, more than 25 awards categories dis- Submitted by Alina Viera, Bitner Goodman PR play the depth and diversity of this year’s growing By Felix DoBosz Hop”, and that’s just to name a few in the short 72 HOLLYWOOD — The Eighth Annual Native American music scene. HOLLYWOOD — On the night of April 6, minute set. Native American Music Awards, or NAMMYs, will Awards categories include: best rock/pop the female-fronted hard rock band Heart’s tour showed The crowd was comprised of mainly mature make its highly anticipated return to the Seminole recording, jazz/blues recording, gospel/Christian up to perform live at the Seminole Hard Rock Live. rockers who sometimes had a hard time getting up out Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida on recording, instrumental recording, traditional record- Fans came to see and hear this legendary rock group of their seats to that rockin beat. Hollywood Council June 8. ing, pow wow recording, rap/hip hop recording and perform at this nearly sold out Representative Max B. Osceola Jr. This year’s awards are being held in Hard spoken word among others. show. Heart’s classic hits have enjoyed this rockin’ show from his Rock Live, quickly emerging as the entertainment cap- An estimated one million people are expected spanned more than 30 years and VIP seat along with many other ital of South Florida, showcases national and interna- to participate in the national voting process through sold millions of record albums. prominent Seminole citizens and tional acts, boxing, sporting events and more. Tickets the NAMMYS’ website, www.nammys.com. Sisters Ann and Nancy Tribal employees. go on sale April 7 at 5 p.m. Tickets are $20, $35 and $50; all seats are Wilson have remained remarkably Dynamic guitarist Nancy Hosted by Native American comedians James reserved and available at the Hard Rock Live Box true to their music after all these Wilson full of energy and looking & Ernie, special guests include: Rita Coolidge, Felipe Office, open daily from noon until 7 p.m. Tickets pur- many years, at one time punching youthful at middle age, jumped in Rose of the Village People and John Densmore of The chased in-person at the box office will not incur a out one hit after another. They the air while doing a sort of wild Doors. Both Rita Coolidge and John Densmore of The service charge. incorporated some early rock influ- pixie dance still strumming her gui- Doors appear on recordings submitted for nomination Tickets are also available at all Ticketmaster ences from their favorites, namely tar in style. Wilson encouraged her consideration this year. outlets, online at www.ticketmaster.com or charge by British legendary rock band Led fans when she exclaimed, “I see Scheduled performers include: violinist Arvel phone: Miami-Dade (305) 358-5885, Broward (954) Zeppelin. you’ve got super glue on your Bird, flautist Douglas Blue Feather, pianist Gil 523-3309, and Palm Beach (561) 966-3309. Doors Using her tremendous seats,” which got a lot of people’s Silverbird, Pura Fe’ (Ulali), Randy Wood (Northern open one-hour prior to show start time. The show power pop-scream, Ann Wilson attention and they rose to the occa- Cree Singers), Wade Fernandez, Eagle & Hawk and starts at 8 p.m. looked possessed as she got into the sion. Felix DoBosz Puppeteer Buddy Big Mountain, with more to be band’s classic rock hits while Ann Wilson used her power pop With this gesture, Wilson Nancy’s backup harmonies easily scream pleasing the crowd. out-maneuvered and bewildered enhanced her sister’s inflections security guards’ constant and futile when they performed the following pleas to sit back down as hoards of songs: “Bebe LeStrange,” “Magic frenzied fans mounted a frontal assault to close in on Man,” “Barracuda,” ‘Crazy On You,” “Kick It Out,” the stage. Only a 2 1/2-foot wide metal barrier separat- Never,” “Heartless,” “Straight on,” “Even it up,” and ed the group Heart from the swarms of ecstatic fans, Sir Elton John’s big hit, “Mona Lisas and Mad they got their money’s worth at this Heart show. Hatters.” Heart has 16 new songs on their new CD Heart also included some big jammers from “Jupiters Darling” that they are busily promoting Led Zeppelin “Rock’n’ Roll” and “Misty Mountain nationwide while on tour.

Felix DoBosz Little Steven Van Zandt from his syndicated radio show at poolside of the Hollywood Seminole Hard Rock Casino & Hotel said, “it’s about having a fun time with rock music...you gotta love it.” ‘Underground Garage’ Tunes-Up at Hard Rock By Felix DoBosz laugh from the crowd while bringing in the next dyna- HOLLYWOOD — On a beautiful April 2 mite band on his rockin’ show. afternoon, Little Steven Van Zandt brought his popular The big man, Clarence Clemons a band mate syndicated rock radio show, “Underground Garage,” of Little Steven’s and saxophonist from Bruce poolside at the Seminole Hard Rock Casino & Hotel. Springsteen and the E Street Band, was spotted hang- Little Steven is also known as the actor that plays ing out in one of the chickee cabanas near the stage Silvio Dante in the HBO hit series “The Sopranos” area. Clemons tirelessly signing autographs for well and he’s also a founding member of the world famous wishers and most of all hanging out with his buddy Jersey shore band Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Little Steven. Band. Rock fans and the curious stood around and swam around to get a bet- ter view of the five rock bands assembled to per- form on an outdoor stage erected in the back pool- side area of the hotel. The five bands which per- formed were: The Romantics, The Fleshtones, The Forty- Fives, The Charms and The Shazam. The sun-worship- ing small crowd was standing or sitting around to the beat drinking cool beverages. Between sets pretty neon clad go-go girls in flashy vinyl boots danced to late 60s style groovy rock classics Felix DoBosz pounded out from huge Pretty neon clad girls danced ‘60s fun style to the garage band’s rock music. loud speakers in front and around the stage. The Romantics headlined the show with their wild party Van Zandt obligingly also signed a few auto- anthems, “What I Like About You” and “Talking In graphs and posed for quick photos with some of his Your Sleep.” admiring fans during the jammin’ sets. Master of ceremonies Little Steven would He said, “ it’s about having a fun time with banter back and forth between the acts and tell the rock music, and we’re going to be here again at least fans in his distinct cool Jersey accent to get up close three more times in the next couple of months”, you to the stage and tell all the young people to stop sitting gotta love it.” around and dance. The Underground Garage is now in more He asked the crowd, “Where’s are all the than 200 markets and has more than one million bikinis?” And responded jokingly to his own question weekly listeners. Visit www.undergroundgarage.com “...Not you sir sit down!” That was worth a huge for more info. The Seminole Tribune 23 April 28, 2006

Happy Birthday Poems Happy birthday and happy Happy 8th birthday Luke Seminole Girl Pause in your silent flight. mothers day to Pa to okee, my best Baxley Jr. Hope your birthday was blast! O tell my love that I wait here tonight friend and my butterball. I want to thank Love, When night unfolds her tender veil of blue, Stars up above the world you for being there for me when I needed Mom (Janine Cypress), Dad My arms will hold you Seminole Girl Shinning so merrily someone. You have been there for me (Luke Baxley), Daija, Amyer, Aden Beneath the stars we’ll pledge our love a Keep my Seminole Girl safe, safe for me. through the tough times and the happy James, Grandparents Regina and Ned new, Stars up above the world times. Thinn and Carl Baxley, Helen Billie The moon will lend us its spell. Shinning so merrily May God bless you and keep you When shadows fall across the closing days Keep my Seminole girl and make you who he wants you to be in Happy 4th birthday Aden My lips will find yours, Seminole Girl Safe for me. life. I just want you to know you are very James “Tuna” Cypress. We love you Than with the dawn the shadows steal much appreciated and I love you very very much. away —Alex Tucker much. May life smile on you. Love, A kiss must seal our farewell. Otter Clan Love, Mom (Janine Cypress), Daijer, O winds that hurry by Mommy Amyer, Luke Jr., Grandparents Regina and Ned Thinn The Great Hunt And it’s no use to beckon or say, “So long” Maybe I will tell you then- New Kids I cannot tell you now Some other time. When the wind drive and whirl I never knew any more beautiful than you Blow me along no longer, I have hunted you under my thoughts And the winds a whisper at last I have broken down under the wind To paleepefeekee my little toma- Maybe I will tell you than- And into the roses looking for you. to, I am very proud of you and how you Some other time I shall never find any handled the hard times and brought your- When the roses flash to the sunset Greater than you self up! You are an inspiration to me and I Reels to the rack and the twist, am happy God blessed me with you! Stay And the roses is a red bygone, —Alex Tucker strong and always stay focused and be a When the face I love is going Otter Clan positive influence in life. I love you and And the gate to the end shall change stay who you are and God will make you who he wants you to be! Happy belated birthday. Love, Mommy

We are happy to announce the birth of our daughter Kateri Lynn Smith, Otter clan. She was born at Memorial Regional Hospital in Hollywood on March 28, 2006 at 10:25 p.m. She weighed 7 pounds, 12 ounces, and was 18 3/4 inches long. Mother: Tommie Jumper Smith, Father: Derrick Smith, Brother: Derrick Smith Jr., Grandparents: Larry Smith, John Happy belated birthday to & Tracy Tanner, Stephan & Karen Hawk, Barbara Butera on April 7 and Roy Alana Glover, and the late Thomas Hawk. Butera on April 12. Love, Joe and Ciara Guerue The Sorrow of Fort Marion Cannons, mortars, muskets, bayonets, sick- Anniversary ness, hunger. Ancient coquina shell and coral fortress, And what ancient tribes flourished on that On the margins of Florida forests, and spot swamps, Long before the invaders came? On the threshold of Seminole homeland- Never have I beheld such solemn sacred- Oh, anguished plight, weathered prison, ness, Sacred link to Seminole history, My sad heart Sorrowed feeling encapsulated in time. goes out to I was there to find a closer kinship to my them: ancestors, War-Leader, In search of myself, Osceola; To discover where I’d come from. Chieftain, I have felt the morning air on the timeworn And Royal parapets of yesterday, Prince of the As cold as when the Seminoles imprisoned Forest: King there Philip Long ago must’ve felt it, And Chained, deprived of freedom, “Wildcat”; In deep pain and hurt, and all the They gazed out across those same shores, other Chiefs, Introducing the new kid on the Across the endless bay and yearned Warriors, block, Kassiah Wade Robbins, born on For the golden sunrise of a better day And women March 28, 2006 at 9:15 p.m. He weighed And still only deep blue rain and hail, and children, five pounds and 12 ounces and measured Silver wind Captured under a white flag of truce, Joe and Ciara Guerue celebrat- 18-and-a-half inches. and darkness. And yet ruthlessly imprisoned there during ed their one year wedding anniversary His proud parents are Erika and Troops the Seminole wars on April 15, 2006. Ciara is a Tribal intern Seth Robbins, and grandparents are Mary housed them Seminole patriots one and all in the truest specializing in marketing at the Seminole and Bernard Robbins and Alicia and in daily mis- sense of the word Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood Bobby Tigertail. His big brothers and sis- ery, Stolen, locked away, to never appreciate and Joe works for the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki ter are Kyle, 13, Natalia, 8, and Dylan. Behind bars, the shade Museum in the Seminole Paradise. under the Of the pine, the live oak, the cypress gun, With their venerable gray-beards of sway- But the ing Spanish moss, In Memoriam Seminoles To never smell the warm-scented canopy never lost of green meadow Oralee Adrianna Elise Dixon their dignity, Breath of air, so that vicious heartbreak (December 2, 2005 – March 25, 2006) their courage, and immediate death In that mean Was the only respite for the severest storm. place of Yet now I see were it not for them this Seminole poem may very well woe. Have been written out west, instead of here You can still feel the profound sorrow to in Florida. this very day. It’s there, it doesn’t play. —Elgin Jumper A feeling so overwhelming! March 26, 2006 Imagine a prison amidst the black imple- ments of war:

Congratulations to Pittman and Justa Sampson on the arrival of your baby girl, Quincy Maree Sampson. Quincy Maree Sampson was born Jan. 9 at Palms west Hospital in Loxahahachee, Fla. Quincy weighted 7 pounds, 9 ounces. Quincy has four brothers: Austin, Dylan, Jason, Kaiden, and one sister, Even though Oralee was only There is a home for little children Lindsey. The proud grandparents are with us a short time, she brought tremen- Above the bright blue sky Shirley and Gary Sampson of Brighton dous joy to her parents Orald and Angela Where Jesus reigns in glory and Katherine Snook of Okeechobee. Dixon, and her loved ones and friends. A home of peace and joy We all wish you the best life pos- Angela Dixon is a Tribal employee in the No home on earth is like it sible!! Human Resources department. Nor can compare with it XOXO “The Sampson Bunch” For everyone is happy We love you munchkin, Nor could be happier there Mom & Dad 28The Seminole Tribune 24 April 28, 2006 The Seminole Tribune 25 April 28, 2006 The Seminole Tribune 26 April 28, 2006 Chupco’s Landing Key Presentation and Luncheon By Chris Jenkins FT. PIERCE — The crowd was definitely smaller on April 10 compared to September 2005’s ceremonial ribbon cut- First Annual ting, but the impact was just as huge. Two more grateful and eager Ft. Pierce Tribal citizens received keys to their new homes, as part of presentation ceremonies at Florida Agri- Chupco’s Landing. In a presentation which began with nine home and key exchanges, 27 total thus far, Dean Stokes and Shamy Tommie Sr. Women’s were among the most recent to be provided with the dream of a custom built home. Both homes were four bedrooms with three and a half baths along with other Skeet Shoot features such as the ability to withstand hur- ricane winds up to 140 miles per hour, recessed lighting, ceramic tile, carpeting, Chris Jenkins oak cabinets and build-in backyard propane Director of Utilities Susie Kippenberger (far left), Shamy tank generators. Tommie Sr. (middle), Bessie Tommie and Sally Tommie pose Place: Quail Creek Plantation The days activities began with together after Chupco’s Landing key presentation cere- Okeechobee, Florida Director of Utilities Susie Kippenberger’s, monies. Date: May 13, 2006 Time: 8:30 a.m. will just give you a house everyday.” Tommie will be sharing the house with his wife, Sandy, and their Costs: two grandchildren. Station Sponsor: $100.00 (A sign at a Station) Also in attendance were Bessie Single Shooter: $75.00 (Includes 100 targets and lunch, ammo not included) Tommie, the last surviving child of 13 from parents Jack and Sally Chupco Team: $360.00 (A team consists of four shooters with lunch and a sponsor sign at a station, Tommie, founders of the Ft. Pierce ammo not included) Seminole camp. Seminole Police and Lunch: $12 (Lunch will include a steak dinner with all the fixings) Fire Departments were also in atten- dance to offer their support. Tommie Sr. summed up his Awards: emotions best. Top three teams and top three individuals and top youth will receive a plaque. “I’m proud to be one of the Tribal members to get one of these hous- es and it’s been a long time waiting for Call for information: Dianne Spann (863) 634-3327, Melissa S. Montes DeOca (863)634-7712, this, and I think it was worth the wait,” or Quail Creek Plantation at (863)763-2529. More information is available at www.flagri- he said. women.org. There are three more house pre- Chris Jenkins sentations and key exchanges scheduled New homeowners and key recipients, Dean Stokes and Shamy upon completion. Registration Form Tommie Sr. give a smile for the cameras. Sign me up for opening remarks and defining of the _____Station Sponsor ($100.00) ______Team ($360.00) housing and community rules, regula- tions, and owner policies. Ft. Pierce _____Individual ($75.00) _____Lunch only ($12.00) Liaison Sally Tommie was formerly introduced and continued the activities with a prayer and key presentations. Sponsor Name/Signage______Tommie reflected on the honor and mood of such an opportuni- ty. Contact Name______“Owning a home or having the ability to have a home period, new Address______or pre-owned, is one of the greatest prides and joys that anyone could ever have,” said Tommie. Phone______Fax______Shamy Tommie Sr., the eldest grandson in the Tommie household, reflected on the day and admitted to Contact Quail Creek Plantation to reserve a gold cart at (863)763-2529. being anxious. Mail registration to: Dianne Spann, 8668 SW 2nd St., Okeechobee, Fla. 34974, or e-mail to “The dream is here and it’s a [email protected]. nice home and I’m proud of it,” Chris Jenkins Tommie said. “It’s not that somebody Shamy Tommie Sr. and wife Wanda happily pose after being pre- sented with their new home keys. The Seminole Tribune 27 April 28, 2006

AIFI’s Tribal Touring Program to Travel Cross-Country Summer 2006 Submitted by Cindy Benitez, AIFI Indian Community, Mashantucket Pequot Tribal SAN FRANCISCO, CA — The American Nation, Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California and Indian Film Institute (AIFI) is proud to announce the United Auburn Indian Community. One tour date is summer schedule for the 2006 Tribal Touring available for this summer program. If interested please Program. The Tribal Touring Program is designed to contact the American Indian Film Institute. expand AIFI’s media services to California and The 2006 Tribal Touring Program promises to Western states tribal and rural communities. be an educational, fun, and career-directed experience The Tribal for all Native youth Touring Program, participants who presented in the are taught by summer, uses award- winning media as a tool for Indian media pro- cultural and eco- fessionals experi- nomic develop- enced in digital ment. It is struc- video production. tured around media At each tour-stop, empowerment and four to six short literacy, digital films of four–10 training workshops, minutes each, are community film scripted, shot, edit- festival and, ed, and premiered months later, at each Tribal host youth-to-media site. maker dialogue at A 3-Nite Jodi Miller/Advocate Staff Photographer the American “Best of the Daniel Romero Jr., chairman of the Lipan Apache Band of Texas, begins the restoration ceremony by say- Indian Film American Indian ing a few of his own words and also a prayer that his father wrote. Festival in San Film Festival” pre- Francisco, Calif. cedes the premiere AIFI of youth films. All Host-Partners dur- youth films created Restoring Ancient Remains: Corporate America ing the Tribal at each Tribal Touring Program’s Touring Program Helps Return Ancestors To Their Homes highly successful community will 2001-2002 pilot also be screened in By Patrick Brendel, The Victoria Advocate, lived and died,” he said. phase included: a special program Reprinted with permission Salazar said that his group, composed of Robinson Rancheria, Santa Rosa Rancheria, Sycuan at the 2006 31st annual American Indian Film Festival VICTORIA COUNTY, TEXAS — Before eight nations, provided to the Lipan Apaches the deer- Reservation, Soboba Reservation and Bishop Paiute in San Francisco. the ceremony began that would restore ancient human skins in which the remains were wrapped before the Tribe in California, and the Yakama Nation in For further information regarding AIFI’s remains to one of the oldest burial sites in the world, ceremony. Washington. Tribal Touring Program or annual Film Festival please the chairman of the Lipan Apache Band of Texas Himself a Mescalero Apache, Salazar said the The Tribal Touring Program has traveled to contact the AIFI at (415) 554-0525, or e-mail explained to visitors that they were about to take part restoration was a sign of different Tribes “working California, Washington, and Nevada reservations [email protected]. in a ritual that had been passed down continuously for together - politically, spiritually - we’re trying to come offering Native youths, ages 14-19, the opportunity to more than eight millennia. to terms economically.” participate in this intensive 10 day media academy. He asked that the men be anointed with ash “The old customs are beyond us,” said According to AIFI and the women with pollen before beginning the bur- Tommy Bolton, principal chief and tribal chairman of President Michael Smith, the Tribal ial rites because his people believe that ash and pollen the Choctaw-Apache Tribe of Ebarb, in Louisiana. Touring Program is “a bridge to our 2006 AIFI Tribal Touring Program Dates: prevent spirits of the dead from returning to this “As time goes on, we lose more and more.” communities–especially bringing world. Bolton said that Tribes share pieces of culture media technology to our reserva- June 1 - June 10: Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community, Chairman Daniel Castro Romero Jr. said that to combat this loss. For example, he said, most of the tion/Rancheria youth. Our youth the restoration on the morning of April 1 at the dances performed by Tribes nowadays were actually retain their tribal stories–by placing Scottsdale, AZ Buckeye Knoll site in south Victoria County validates taught to them by people from the Northern Plains. digital video cameras, sound, light- the model of “joint stewardship” between Native “We adopted them because we lost what we June 22 - July 1: Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, Mashantucket, ing equipment and computers/Final CT American Tribes and corporate America whenever had,” he said. Cut 5 in their hands–we empower remains and artifacts are found on a company’s land. Bolton, whose Tribe contains four families youth to embrace media and contin- “As chief of the Lipan Apaches, I am forever who claim relation to the Lipan Apaches, said, “They July 6 - July 15: Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California Native ue to create a wider perspective, TANF Program, Sacramento, CA humble with Invista for content, and marketplace for shap- helping to return our ances- ing and defining our contemporary July 20 - July 29: Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California, tors to their homes,” he Indian lifeways.” Gardnerville, NV said. The 2006 Tribal Touring Romero said he Program will be traveling to five Aug 3 - Aug 12: United Auburn Indian Community, Rocklin, CA was thankful to avoid the communities cross-country, includ- kind of controversy that is ing: Salt River Pima Maricopa Aug 17 - Aug 26: Open TTP dates still swirling around the 1996 discovery of 9,200- year-old “Kinneweck man” in Southern Washington State. Because of his age, no one knows where the ancient being’s remains should be restored or if should even be considered a Native American. The Buckeye Knoll site was discovered in 2000 on property belong- ing to Dupont, now Invista, and yielded artifacts never seen in this part of the country, as well as the remains of about 70 human beings. Archaeologist Bob Ricklis said that a crew of about 12 people conducted the dig, which took place over a period of about nine months and stopped when they had excavated about one-third of the area at the site. He said the work was like a pregnancy, “but the labor was harder.” Remains were found at Buckeye Knoll that dated as far back as 8,500 years, and artifacts were found that dated as recently as 500 years ago, he said, with the majority of the remains being between 6,300 and 7,000 years old. For comparison, the remains at Buckeye Knoll site are at least 4,000 Jodi Miller/Advocate Staff Photographer years older than the Lucila Maestas carries a rock to place on top of the restored Buckeye Knoll remains returned to burial site. Because of Apache spiritual beliefs, only black-and-white photo- Invista’s Blue Bayou site graphs could be taken at the restoration. in 2004. However, Ricklis said he found that the cul- ture of the people of Buckeye Knoll was in some ways are our distant kin. We also learn a little.” at least as complex, or more so, than the people at And although the people found at Buckeye Blue Bayou. Knoll are not related to the Lipan Apaches or any cur- If the Buckeye Knoll site had been discov- rent Native American Tribe, according to Ricklis ered in the 1950s, Ricklis said that scientists would (“There is no archaeological link at all. Seven thou- have immediately “excavated the whole thing because sand years ago, from an archeological point of view, of its scientific importance” and the remains would Tribes didn’t even exist,” he said), the Buckeye Knoll have been put on display or stored for long-term study. people “possessed the origin of many parts of Native Ricklis said he prefers to use the term “com- American culture,” anthropologist Enrique Maestas plex” rather than “advanced” because “advanced” said. implies that he is passing judgment. “This was here before any building was built Nevertheless, “the restoration is a sign of that is on this planet,” said Maestas, who is Colorado advancement in communication,” he said. Although Apache (or Chi’en Nde,’ in his words). “This is proba- scientists would have learned more about the past by bly the oldest burial ground in North America.” digging up the whole site and keeping everything for “The remains were placed before the pyra- study and display, it is important to accommodate the mids were built,” Romero said. people who presently have a connection to the dead. When the people were first interred at By restoring the remains, “We are giving the Buckeye Knoll, “No one ever imagined we’d be able proper respect to our forefathers,” said Anita Anaya, to put them back home and learn from them.” secretary of the Lipan Apache band. “I hope my people will take care of me in the Larry Running Turtle Salazar of the Gulf traditional way,” he said, motioning toward the Coast Indian Confederation in Corpus Christi said that restored burial site, “and this is the traditional way.” the most important thing about the restoration “is to Patrick Brendel is a reporter for The Victoria keep tradition as it always has been, from generation Advocate. Contact him at (361) 580-6535 or pbren- to generation.” [email protected], or comment on this story at “Our children will know how their ancestors www.VictoriaAdvocate.com. The Seminole Tribune 28 April 28, 2006 Hollywood Students Train to be Good Drivers By Felix DoBosz time drivers and everyone thought it was an excellent HOLLYWOOD — On April 13, four idea. Attending and participating in the four-hour class Hollywood students gathered in a small classroom at at the Boys & Girls Club was Audrey Osceola, Jack the Boys & Girls Club. Richard Smith, Training Turtle and Legus Bowers. Instructor with the Seminole Police Department, The four young students were given a written instructed these fine young Seminole students on the test after the course was completed. The written test is basic laws related to driving privileges in the state of produced by Driver Training Associates, Inc. The Florida. S.T.A.R.T. Course (Student Training Alcohol Related What first time driving students 15-17 years Topics) consisted of the following topics: your Florida of age should know in order to earn a license to drive driving privileges, suspension of license, revocation, in the state of Florida was one of the topics covered Florida traffic point system, responsible driving strate- during the power point slide presentation. Student gies, pertinent alcohol facts, guide for detecting training consisted of lectures on the vehicle state laws impaired drivers, consequences and penalties for driv- while focusing on prevention of operating a motor ers in the state of Florida. vehicle while under the influence. The Driving Under This was the first time this program has been the Influence, or DUI, penalties in the state of Florida implemented for students in this community and will are very severe. DUI offenses often lead to accidents, be scheduled again for the other Seminole reserva- which cause destruction, injuries and sometimes even tions. This class was sponsored by Seminole Tribe of death. Florida and SPD. Austina Motlow requested a class for first

Mark Wallheiser / Tallahassee Democrat As FSU president T.K. Wetherell stands at the microphone, Willie Nelson shows off the traditional Seminole jacket he was presented by Naha Jumper, second from right, and Jo Leigh Jumper, right, with the Seminole Tribe of Florida.

Felix DoBosz Happy Mother’s Day to Ms. S.T.A.R.T. course students (clockwise from left): Austina Motlow, Jack Turtle, Instructor Richard Smith, Lena D. Tiger. I would like to give Legus Bowers and Audrey Osceola. thanks to a God-sent woman. You took me in and took care of me and you showed me love, patience, understand- ing, all of the things to help me grow. I The brochure handed out to the class con- Informs students of the various attitude just want you to know you were appre- tained the following information: states within a personality ciated for being you. Some of the objectives in this driving Assist students in developing responsible Mommy, you have showed me course are: driver attitudes and behavior how to laugh and smile through the Inform students of the significance of the Prepare students for driving in various con- hard times and good times. I want to thank you for teaching me how to love driving privilege ditions and demonstrate proper ways to handle and be a mother when you never beard Describe the laws pertaining to youthful emergencies your own fruits! You have taught me drivers, including zero tolerance and other alcohol Enable students to examine risk areas in many things in my life that I can teach laws their lives goals my children to carry on your love to Educate students regarding various drugs Develop an action plan for future responsi- others thank you for loving me mommy and their effects on the body ble driving you were my best friend! See you soon! Assist students in learning how various Develop a personal commitment to staying Love ya, drugs affect driver behavior and performance alcohol and drug free Ufutcheechee The Seminole Tribune 29 April 28, 2006 The Seminole Tribune 30 April 28, 2006 Senior High Achievers in Immokalee Story by Judy Weeks a.m.–2 p.m. nearly every day as the group has been IMMOKALEE — Since the opening of the hard at work turning out some very special ceramic new Senior Hot Meals facilities in Immokalee, the pieces. The regulars are comprised of five to seven senior residents have been kept extremely occupied. ladies who have learned to prepare, paint and finish various types of ceramic. Instructors are on hand to help them get started and answer any questions that may have arisen since their last meeting. Beginning with the simple basic procedures, they have progressed to some very technical proj- ects. While the subject for each class has made use of the various holidays and season, the group has taken a special interest in Native American pieces. In this category they have really excelled. The completed art objects depict not only clans, but a variety of tradi- Judy Weeks tional items such as canoes, Immokalee seniors producing ceramics in their workshop. moccasins, beadwork, bas- kets, work and hunting utensils. Some of the stat- Judy Weeks ues of Native Americans Immokalee seniors and staff pose with their winning entry in the Trike Fest and the 2006 trophy. Not only are they taking advantage of the fine meals have been so well crafted, that they take on a human that are being served, but have made the building a quality. place for their social gathering and workplace for All of their hard work paid off when they approximately 100 other entries from communities all seniors did enlist a little outside help from Bill and numerous projects. were given an opportunity to enter the ceramics com- around Lake Okeechobee, Fla., they took many of the Johnny at Utilities, who assisted in taking pieces loose The craft area is abuzz with activity from 10 petition at the Hendry County Fair. Competing against top honors. from the bikes and then reattaching them after decora- Triumphing in numerous divisions, they gar- tion was complete. Victor Billie supplied the know- nered five first place awards and two second places. how in the construction of the small chickee frame and Louise Motlow received three first place ribbons, helped them to stabilize it. while Mary Sanchez and Rachel Billie each had one. Two second places went to Elizabeth Oleo. Following the return of their entries to Immokalee, Chairman Mitchell Cypress, President Moses Osceola and Big Cypress Council Representative David Cypress joined the group for lunch and congratulated them on their success. Scrutinizing each piece, they complemented the ladies on their choice of colors and the great care they took in attending to each detail in decorat- ing their entries. Rachel Billie’s statue of Osceola drew the special attention of David Cypress, who wished to purchase it. He insisted that the first place ribbon must accompany the piece of art to his home. Judy Weeks Ceramics are not the (L-R) Seniors Louise Motlow, Elizabeth Oleo, Rachel Billie and Mary only competition entered by Sanchez show off their winning ceramic entries from the Hendry Immokalee’s seniors. They all County Fair. participated in designing and cre- ating their entry in this year’s Trike Fest at Big Cypress which brought them a first In the best dressed bike awards, Mary Judy Weeks place win in the best decorated trike category. Sanchez came in second place and Rachel Billie was First place winning plate by Louise Motlow. Everyone contributed something to the proj- hot on her heels in third place. Meanwhile Nancy ect and they all worked on putting it together. The Motlow took first in the ball toss. The Seminole Tribune 31 April 28, 2006 VNEA Pool Players Compete at Hard Rock Tribal Citizen Theresa Nunez Health Inspiration Publication Takes First in Women’s Division By Eydie Romano, AzBilliards.com The Health Department invites any Tribal TAMPA — With big money and bragging right up for grabs, players flocked to the Tampa citizen interested in being included in a health Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino the week of April 13–16. This Valley National Eightball inspiration publication to contact Suzanne Association (VNEA) friendly event was open to all VNEA players in the Florida region. Davis at the Health Department. This What a class act this VNEA event was. OB Osceola, Naples liaison, went all out to make this one publication is the first in a series of collections of the best events in VNEA history. Everything from the smallest attention to detail was paid to this event. of community interviews, photos and stories. It was a non-stop class act with top shelf clothing for the staff, laminated postcard stock score sheets and four foot high trophies for all the winners. Additional guaranteed added money was up for grabs in the Pro/Master round robin tournament. Suzanne can be reached at (954) 962-2009 This tournament included such notable players as Troy Frank, Glen Olson and Steve Frost. Troy Frank ext. 120 went undefeated throughout the event only missing Tribune Archive Photo nine games out of 40 and bringing home the grand Theresa Nunez prize. Second place went to Glen Olson and Dan Briggs took third place. In The Sportsman Division, “Dolly’s Big Dogs” from Deland, FL defeated “Motown Boy’s” from Immokalee, FL. This was the tournament until being knocked into the losers bracket closest match of the championship rounds. by Elishia Huson. She came back after forcing Amy There were 22 players in the women’s divi- Poulter into third place and also defeating Elishia sion. First place went to Seminole Tribal citizen twice for the grand prize. Theresa Nunez. Elishia Huson came in second and Theresa Nunez, 35, lives on The Brighton third place went to Amy Poulter. reservation with her four children, ages five–12. She The women went head to head all weekend has been playing pool for the past 10 years. In addi- long. Theresa Nunez went head to head throughout the tion to playing, she operates a floral business called Best Buds, which serves The Seminole reservation exclusively. Last year, she took second in the Seminole Sunshine Tournament. Within the past several years she has also placed first at The Valley State Tournament and is in the Top 20 in VNEA. Theresa’s love for the game and dedica- tion to the Tribe inspired her to put together an eld- ers team for this tourna- ment. The team, called Natives, consists of five team players all over 60 years of age who never competed before in tour- nament play. She led them through the ins and outs of team play compe- tition, with the highs of victory and the agony of defeat. This was cer- tainly the place to be in Tampa this past weekend for action, action, and Second place “Motown Boys” action. The Seminole Tribune 32 April 28, 2006 The Seminole Tribune 33 April 28, 2006

and went on to share that Bowers is very excited to IRCC support this project because he feels that Brighton’s Seminole Children educational roots are tied to the Okeechobee com- Continued from page 1 munity and that education for his people is one of Receive Awards his top priorities. presentation on behalf of Bowers who fell ill and President Moses Osceola also attended the Submitted by Public School Academy was unable to attend. Thomas expressed Bowers’ presentation and shared the following, “It gives us WILSON, MI — The children of regrets for being unable to attend the presentation pleasure to present this check to Dr. Massey and Seminole Tribal citizen Catherine Tommie IRCC. The Seminole Alexander and husband Charles Alexander Tribe is very support- were honored with several awards in recent ive of education for months. our people and Indian Christian 10, Christopher 9 and River College is one Cassandra 5, attend the Nah Tah Wahsh Public of the institutions of School Academy in Wilson, Mich. higher education that Christian received the student of the many of our tribal award in January. members have attend- In September 2005, Christopher was ed and still attend. Public School Academy honored as the student of the month. He also We are pleased to Cassandra Alexander received the humility award. support this new cen- Cassandra received an award for hon- ter.” esty. The award is named Honoring the Seven It is obvious Grandfathers. She is the youngest student to that the Seminole receive this award Tribe supports educa- tion by the support they have shown to the local college that has provided higher education to many Seminoles. Every dollar donated for the new center will be matched by state facilities matching funds. We hope to have many Seminole Public School Academy Emma Brown students benefit from Christian Alexander The Tribe’s donation check (bottom, center). this new state of the art facility.

Happy Mother’s Day from the Seminole Tribune "We only have One Mom, One Mommy, — Florida Scott-Maxwell: One Mother in this World, One life. Don't wait for the Tomorrow's to tell Mom, you Before you were conceived I wanted you love her" Before you were born I loved you ~Author Unknown~ Before you were here an hour I would die for you Mothers are fonder than fathers of This is the miracle of life. their children because they are — Maureen Hawkins: more certain they are their own. Public School Academy Public School Academy — Aristotle: The most important thing a father Christopher Alexander can do for his children is to love Christopher Alexander WONDERFUL MOTHER their mother.

God made a wonderful mother, M-O-T-H-E-R A mother who never grows old; He made her smile of the sunshine, "M" is for the million things she gave me, And He moulded her heart of pure gold; "O" means only that she's growing old, In her eyes He placed bright shining stars, "T" is for the tears she shed to save me, Don’t Forget ... In her cheeks fair roses you see; "H" is for her heart of purest gold; God made a wonderful mother, "E" is for her eyes, with love-light shining, And He gave that dear mother to me. "R" means right, and right she'll always be, Mother’s Day — Pat O'Reilly~ Put them all together, they spell "MOTHER," A word that means the world to me. No matter how old a mother is, she watches her May 14! middle-aged children for signs of improvement. — Howard Johnson The Seminole Tribune 34 April 28, 2006

Community Easter Gathering By Emma Brown BRIGHTON — The Brighton rodeo grounds and facility resembled a beau- tiful rainbow on Friday April 14. The color- ful blanket that covered the ground was made out of literally hundreds of Easter eggs for the community Easter egg hunt. The hunt began at 10 a.m. with sec- tions of eggs divided by orange tape to clear- ly mark the boundaries. The hunt was divid- ed into groups according to current school grades. The groups were as follows: K–first, second–fourth, fifth–eighth and ninth–12th. At 9:59 a.m. the kids were lined up eager for the hunt to begin. At 10 a.m. they were given the green light and it was each kid for themselves. Kids were scurrying everywhere trying to gather as many eggs as possible, hoping to either gather the most eggs or find one of many golden prize eggs the lay amidst the others. After each egg had been found it was time for the prizes to be awarded. Prizes were awarded in each age group to the kids with the most eggs and to the kids who had found a golden prize egg. After the hunt, the kids could visit with the Easter Bunny or Emma Brown enjoy the recreational activities that had been Joshua Boromei, Destiny Nunez, Breanna Billie, Korvette Billie. set up for them. At 12 p.m. a cold cut lunch was served for the entire community to enjoy. Following there were children, which is always an exciting It was another fun and lunch it was time for the ladies and gentlemen of event to witness. Adults were awarded with the same exciting Easter for the community Brighton to put their egg hunting skills to work. prizes as the children, so in this group as well, it was of Brighton. Thank you to each There were nearly as many adults hunting eggs as each person for them self. department that supported the Tribal Council and Board office in making another holiday a success. Emma Brown Caroline Micco, Elana Micco, Peter Cottontail and Mason Micco.

Emma Brown Emma Brown Emma Brown And they are off! Danyelle Boromei Erik Garcia FIBA Hosts Festive Easter Program By Susan Etxebarria School Director Darlene Holmes, BRIGHTON — The students at First opened the Easter program by introducing Indian Baptist Academy (FIBA) put on a wonderful the first ever FIBA school choir. The 18 40 minute performance of song and scripture recital students sang 10 Christian songs to the held in the church on April 12 for the enjoyment of accompaniment of the piano. parents and guests. They had memorized the songs and showed so much enthusiasm for performing on the stage and sharing the mes- sage of Easter that it was very enjoyable to lis- ten and to watch. The parents should be proud of their kids. “Praise the Lord,” said Susan Etxebarria Pastor Johns. Reese Bert Jr. reciting scripture. “That was some- thing to see and I am glad every- Also performing was the new high school one came out today to band made up of three guitarists who call them- experience this. I didn’t selves the “Brighton Boyz Band.” know this was going to Susan Etxebarria They sounded really good and show a lot happen. I sit in my office of promise. Especially if they keep up their prac- Choir singing: (back row, L-R) Huber Leon, Ty Pierce, Chris Olivarez, and I heard some music and Shae Pierce, Deliah Carillo, Samuel Osceola and Kaley Riley; (front row, tices with their unofficial music coach, Michael Susan Etxebarria I am amazed to see how far Bond, the Seminole 4-H extension agent who also L-R) Joseph Osceola, Burgundy Pierce, Tavis Jumper, Vivianna Martinez, they got in just a short Good egg finder Samuel Osceola. Robert Harris and Isaac Osceola. plays a guitar. The vocalist is Dewell Johns and his time.” band mates are Tory Billie and Clint Bowers. Pastor Garvin Scott of speeches, a luncheon was served for all the guests the Maple Grove and then an exciting Easter egg hunt followed for all Baptist Church in the students. Lakeport, Fla. was the guest speaker and he shared an inspiring mes- sage about what it means to be a good Christian. After the choir pres- entation and

Susan Etxebarria (L-R) Samuel Osceola, Shae Pierce, Teanna Garcia, Deliah Carillo, Kaley Riley, Moses Garcia, Jaden Puente and Huber Leon. The Seminole Tribune 35 April 28, 2006

Non-Residents Celebrate the Easter Holiday By Janice Billie out prizes and graciously took photos with HOLLYWOOD — On the evening the children. of April 6, Hollywood non-resident Tribal There was no shortage of entertain- citizens gathered together for fun and food. ment for the kids as they were treated to The location was Dave & Busters, a popular tickets for all the games in the facility. The eating and arcade establishment often select- food was great and the children were quite ed as a venue for Tribal festivities. high spirited throughout the evening Hosted by Hollywood’s non-resi- There was a good turnout for the dent liaison Holly Tiger the occasion was a occasion. It was an opportunity for the non- casual and fun filled affair. residents to check in with their liaison about Tiger stated at the start, “We don’t reservation event schedules and events per- have an agenda tonight; we’re here to cele- taining exclusively to non-residents. brate Easter and have an evening of enjoy- ment.” The activities of the night included raffles, musical chairs for the youngsters and a visit from the Easter bunny. Some of the raffle prizes were the ever popular I- Janice Billie Pods® and The Easter Bunny was a big hit with the kids. PSPs®. The Janice Billie bunny was a big The Seminole Tribune’s Editor in Chief Virginia Mitchell and help in handing grand-daughter Jewel.

Janice Billie Janice Billie Janice Billie Riley Jumper takes a nap during the Hollywood non-resident festivities. Natomah Robbins smiles with the Easter Bunny. Raymond Osceola and the Easter Bunny. The Seminole Tribune 36 April 28, 2006

Judy Weeks Judy Weeks Seniors sporting their Easter bonnets (L-R): Elizabeth Oleo, Elaine Aguilar, Louise Motlow and Rachel Foot races drew a happy bunch of contestants. Billie.

Immokalee Easter Community Easter Party Continued from page 1 Gathering at the Ball Field at 10 a.m. on April 15, Senior Joseph Billie fired up the old barbe- the Immokalee community cue grill and turned out some of the most mouth members celebrated the Easter watering ribs and chicken ever. Accompanied by holiday. Their Recreation potato salad, beans, hard boiled eggs and a tossed department had planned a full salad, prepared by Connie Gray, Gayle Greer and day of activities which began Angie Arreguin, it was a meal fit for kings and by popular demand with the queens. Easter egg hunt. Dessert was a beautifully decorated home- Divided into age made cake with Easter colors and characters. Each groups, separate areas provided one of the seniors received an individual bunny cake an equal opportunity for each with jelly bean eyes to take home for an evening individual to participate. Giant snack. Easter baskets were awarded to Moving to the front lawn, the party goers the winners with the most eggs participated in an Easter egg hunt with cash prizes in each category from first concealed in each egg. At the end of the party each through third place. senior received a beautiful centerpiece for their din- A great deal of care ing table comprised of a ceramic pot with an assort- went into the basket prepara- ment of Easter florals. tion to insure that they were age appropriate. In addition to Preschool Easter Party chocolates, candies, and small The staff of the Immokalee Seminole toys, there were bubbles, color- Preschool put together a fantastic party for their stu- ing books, crayons, markers, dents on April 14. jewelry and little cars for the Judy Weeks The little tykes gathered in the school yard younger set. Tara Boone successfully caught the water balloon for their annual Easter Egg Hunt armed with their Games such as for a first place win. baskets and high expectations. It is a joy to watch Yahtzee®, Scrabble®, their enthusiasm grow as Monopoly® and Trivial they locate each egg and Pursuit® joined black lights, run for the next, hoping to music and Walmart gift cards fill their baskets to over in the baskets of the older win- flowing. ners. Following a A picnic lunch was series of games, they served under the big chickee enjoyed a chicken dinner with hamburgers and hot dogs with their friends and hot off the grill, potato chips, family members before cold drinks and Easter cup- diving into the long await- cakes. Judy Weeks ed Easter cake. Each stu- A waterslide proved Cheyenne McInturff with her prize Easter basket. dent received a basket to be a popular gathering place loaded with treasures: as the heat of the afternoon set toys, stuffed animals, in with a promise of a hot sum- chocolate bunnies and mer ahead. There were never candy eggs, crayons and less than 10 to 15 people taking little games. advantage of its cool, refresh- By far the high- ing atmosphere, at any one light of the day was the time. bounce house and inflated Other activities includ- Slip-n-Slide® where they ed foot races, egg toss, water played to their hearts con- balloon toss, egg relay and tent. horse shoes with cash prizes awarded through third place. Everyone received one raffle ticket and as the numbers Judy Weeks were called, the win- Louise Motlow shows off her Easter basket. ner was given an opportunity to select a plastic egg from a basket which contained prizes ranging. Before the afternoon was over, everyone had an oppor- tunity to draw a winning egg. Several commu- nity members donated their time to put this party together and make it the wonderful success that was enjoyed by all. A special thank you to Sylvia Marrero who coordinated the event.

Judy Weeks Bess Bowlegs cradles a raw egg after a careful catch in the egg toss.

Judy Weeks Joseph Billie was chef for the senior Easter party. The Seminole Tribune 37 April 28, 2006