April 26 - Seminole Tribe of Florida

See Page 6A For More Informationwww.SeminoleMediaProductions.com/SMPWDREAM ◆ DISCOVER ◆ DEVELOPVolume XXXVII • Number 4 April 26, 2013Cattle drive honors Roger Smith, a true Native cowboyBY BEVERLY BIDNEYStaff ReporterBRIGHTON — Members of theBrighton community paid tribute to theirfriend Roger Smith at a cattle drive held inhis memory on March 16.Led by his riderless horse Goldie,Smith’s boots backward in the stirrups,about 100 people participated in the RogerSmith Memorial Cattle Drive to move aherd of cattle through his four pastures intoa field near the rodeo arena.“He was loved by many and had a biginfluence on a lot of people,” said DianeSmith, Roger Smith’s widow. “We want toplan another one for next year to honor allthe Smith men. They were all cattlemen.”The Smith men included the latepatriarch Jack, his sons Jack Jr. and thelate Roger, Fred and Richard Smith. RogerSmith passed away on March 13, 2012, atage 58.The atmosphere during the 4-mile drivewas respectful. People on horseback, in fourwheelersand swamp buggies quietly drovethe herd of about 50 roping cattle. With theriders mostly silent, the cows didn’t moo,the dogs didn’t bark and there was nary awhinny from the horses. Louvella Yatesexpertly guided Goldie.“I always called Roger my uncle,” saidYates, a family friend. “He invited me tothe first cattle drive I ever went to. After hedied, I asked the family if they would havea cattle drive for him. Since I thought of it,they wanted me to guide his horse.”Brighton Board Rep. Larry Howardfollowed the herd in a swamp buggy.“He was a true Native Americancowboy,” Rep. Howard said. “He took realpride in his cattle. He was always workingin his pastures tacking fences, cleaning upand pulling up pond apples. It was his wayof life and it was our way of life beforecasinos.”After the cattle drive, friends andfamily shared memories of Smith duringlunch in the Brighton Gym. Smith, a leaderin the community and the Tribe, served asa Brighton councilman for two terms andas a Board representative for one. But mostpeople remembered him as a good friend.“I grew up with Roger and I rememberthe fun times we had,” Weems Buck said.“We grew up around the Red Barn andLouvella Yates guides Roger Smith’s horse Goldie as she leads the cattle drive through his four pastures during the Brighton event held in his honor March 16.used to play there all the time. During highschool, we used to hitchhike home fromfootball practice in Moore Haven.”Smith’s legacy lives on in the hearts ofhis friends.“He was a good man,” said friendDavid Snow. “He loved his family and hiscattle and was an all-around good guy.”People lined up to speak about Smith,some choking back tears.“He was a hard-working man, he lovedhis family and he accomplished a lot in hislife,” Hollywood Councilman Marcellus W.Osceola Jr. said of his father-in-law. “Hewas always on the move and loved to meetpeople. He’ll be remembered not for whatwe did here today, but because of what hedid when he was alive.”Smith had the respect of other cattlemenin the Tribe.“Roger learned from his dad andhad the same work ethic,” said NaturalResource director Alex Johns. “He went tohis pastures once, twice, sometimes threeBeverly Bidneytimes a day. He was voted cattleman of theyear three times in Brighton. He had thebest herd he could and was the first to stepup and offer steer to the 4-H kids. I’m proudto have known him; he was a big part of mylife. I looked up to him and am proud tofollow in his footsteps.”See COWBOY on page 6ASenior profile: Trail matriarch Frances OsceolaBY JUDY WEEKSFreelance WriterTRAIL — The Seminoles are amatriarchal society in which their bloodline and clan are descended through thewomen of the Tribe. This high matriarchposition is earned through many years ofshouldering responsibility and serving thebest interests of her descendants and clanmembers through hard work, self-sacrificeand adherence to cultural teachings.Frances Osceola is one of these womenwho have truly earned the title of matriarch.She was blessed by the Creator with theunique qualities that define a good teacher,and she strived to learn and understand herheritage. By observing and practicing thetraditions and artistic talents of her people,she has become an important link in thechain of knowledge that maintains order inthe system.“It is important to begin teaching ourchildren and grandchildren at an early ageto have pride in where they come from andtheir responsibility to keep this knowledgealive,” she said. “We can’t just study ourhistory in a book; we need to practice ourtraditions and make them a part of the dailylives of our children and their children.”Frances was born on Oct. 25, 1936,in an Everglades camp approximately 20miles from where she lives today alongthe Tamiami Trail near the Collier/DadeCounty line. One of 13 children born toher mother, Alice Huff Billieboy, she is thegranddaughter of Sam Huff and a memberof the Panther Clan.She grew up in a period of dramaticchange for the Seminoles and lived aSeminole Tribune archive photoFrances Osceola’s mother, Alice Huff, front row center, a daughter of Tribal icon Sam Huff, grew upin the Panther Clan Camp of Annie Jumper Tommie, right. c. 1919.traditional lifestyle under the influenceof several notable Tribal icons. Hergrandfather Sam Huff was one of hermentors and a member of the Big TownClan. He was born in the early 1870s inwhat was then a part of the Everglades atPine Island, close to the current HollywoodReservation. His parents, followers ofthe revered spiritual leader Sam Jones,fought extradition to the Indian Territoryin Oklahoma by withdrawing deep into theEverglades following the Third SeminoleWar.By the time Frances was born, theTamiami Trail and drainage projects inthe Everglades were beginning to have adirect impact upon the Seminole lifestyle.Sam Huff warned everyone the projectswould steal the water and destroy theEverglades. Living in his camp in CollierCounty, Frances remembers traveling bydugout canoe to Smallwood’s Trading Postin Chokoloskee and following her family asthey worked to earn a living.As the economy changed with theencroachment of development, her familymoved to Brighton. At 10 years old, shelearned to read and write at the ReservationDay School. They recognized educationwould be a valuable tool and by the timeshe was 12, they allowed her to attendboarding school in North Carolina.“I learned a lot in school but I washomesick. When I was about 15, I cameback to live in the camp of Annie MaeTommie at Dania,” Frances said. “She wasmy great-grandmother’s sister and taughtme how to sew and make dolls, baskets andbeadwork. I learned how to make palmettobaskets, but I didn’t like doing them. Ittakes too long to gather the material and getit ready to use. She taught me the skills thathelped me support my family for more than40 years.”Frances related how living in theTommie Camp gave her access to work inthe fields picking tomatoes, cucumbers andpeppers. The money she made on the farmssupplemented her income from the sale ofitems to the tourists.She found a partner for life in WilliamBrett DalyFrances Osceola strives to keep her culture andheritage alive through her family.McKinley Osceola Jr., known to everyoneas “Wild Bill.” They went to live at hisfather’s camp along the Tamiami Trail eastof Miami and began a family that wouldinclude four girls and two boys.Sharing the same lifestyle, goals andambitions, they became an indomitableteam and were able to purchase a smallabandoned campsite in eastern CollierCounty along the Trail. Raising theirchildren with both education and traditionalvalues, they built a strong family unit thatis continuing to pass their knowledge onto their 14 grandchildren and many greatgrandchildren.“Wild Bill built all of this for her, andher camp is home to the entire family,” saidFrances’ cousin Judy Baker.See FRANCES on page 2APublic Workswins first placeSafety AwardBY BEVERLY BIDNEYStaff ReporterHOLLYWOOD — Most people don’tgive too much thought to how clean waterenters and exits their homes. Fortunately,employees in the Public Works Departmentthink about nothing else – except safety –while accomplishing that formidable taskfor the Seminole Tribe.About a year ago, the departmentinitiated improved safety standards at all itswater and wastewater treatment plants withthe goal of preventing injury and incidences.The department found numerous sourcesfor safety training and implemented acomprehensive plan.This year, Public Works won the 2013Florida Water Environment Association’s(FWEA) first place Safety Award for ClassC Wastewater Treatment Plants. The awardwill be presented at the FWEA AwardsBanquet on April 30 in Orlando. The fourclasses in the FWEA Safety Award arebased on the size of the municipality andthe amount of water processed daily. ClassC plants process about 1 million gallons perday.“We never had any incidences, but werealized we could always do better,” saidAnthony Osceola, Public Works director.“While we were creating the safety plan,we realized there are a lot of proceduresand protocols that follow industry andOSHA (Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration) standards, and we areframing them to use for the Tribe.”The competition was the first thedepartment entered.“We set a goal to compete with othermunicipalities, and this is the result of thenew initiative,” said Derek Koger, assistantdirector of Operations.See PUBLIC WORKS on page 4AINSIDE:COMMUNITY: AHEALTH: 8AANNOUNCEMENTS: 10AEDUCATION: BSPORTS: C

2A • The Seminole Tribune • April 26, 2013Around here, it’s stillThal-chobee-yo-keSeminole language:Hope for our future• James E. BillieAbout 30 years ago when Gloria Wilsonwas still a little girl, I remember she wasalways into designing and drawing andengineering something to look a certain way, and asshe grew older she maintained that passion. April 16was a good example at the groundbreaking for thefuture Public Safety Administration Building.You see, when I first came to Brighton backin 1948-1950, there was an occasional wood-framehouse you could see, very simply put together. Theylooked just like those in any other community, puttogether the same, but smaller. Might only be 16 by20 feet, maybe. But I remember they looked like bighouses to me. Sometimes a family of four would beliving in that little ol’ wood-frame house with the tintop.But there were chickees all the way around.It was a chickee village. And that’s what mosteverybody lived in. I remember that the people ofBrighton made their chickees in just a little differentstyle than the way we did down in Tamiami Trailor Big Cypress. We made our chickees with a littlebit of a pitch to it, and these people over here madetheir roofs a little bit flatter. They also used swampcabbage logs for their legs and sometimes they mighthave used it for their rafters because there weren’ttoo many trees around like cypress or pine. But wewould all put the leaves on basically the same way.Another difference I noticed when I first cameto Brighton was the way the people dressed. Most ofthe people down in Big Cypress wore long pants andwhat looked like a big shirt hanging down with a belttied around the waist. The Brighton people I visitedmore often were Dick Smith, Tom Smith, OscarJones, Sam Jones (not Abiaka, but the modern-daySam Jones). There were also guys like Eli Morganand Frank Shore. Now, Frank Shore, Oscar Jones,Lonnie Buck and Jack Smith, they would dress introusers with the Indian shirt tucked into their pantswith a long scarf wrapped around their necks heldwith a bolo. And a huge cowboy hat, like a 10-gallonhat. And that set the clothing trend around thoseparts.Anyway, back to the way they lived: They alllived in chickee huts. And as time went along, I thinkthe first years that we started to make what they callCBS Homes (concrete, block and steel) were around1956, 1957 when the Tribe was organized. Severalpeople on the reservation all got these homes; theywere only about 30 by 60 feet. These houses werevery simply made. Three bedrooms. I remember thebedrooms were only about 10 by 10 feet – some ofthem were 12 by 10 feet, maybe.But they were comfortable. These types ofhouses went on until about the 1970s. Some of themare still standing today. After the ’60s, the lifestylechanged. The CBS houses brought in a new trend: anew lifestyle of living away from chickees until therewere no more Indian villages. Today there is not oneIndian village in Brighton, except for my place. I livein a chickee hut. I got a cook hut, two guest chickees,and a canoe hut, which comprises what I would callmy chickee village in Brighton.As Gloria Wilson spoke of the changes inBrighton, it brought back old memories, even ofherself. I remember Gloria has always being adetermined person. It shows today in her dedicationto her work, and I think she is doing a very good job.As it turns out, the groundbreaking for the new Publicf francESfrom page 1a“It is hard to find anyone today that remains as closeto their culture. Her children and grandchildren alldress traditional, know how to cook over the fire andare being taught the skills of their ancestors and theSeminole Tribune archive photofrances Osceola, left, and Betty Mae Jumper compete in a clothing contest,showcasing their traditional Seminole clothing.Safety AdministrationBuilding would bringforth part of her ownpersonal dreams anddedication to theSeminole Tribe. As shewas introducing herstaff, I had to chuckleto myself. She stood atthe podium and startedintroducing all her staffwithout even lookingat notes. I thought thatwas very interesting.There I was sitting inmy chair trying to remember a few names and shejust stood there and rattled them right off. I thoughtthat was very nice.It was interesting to hear her tell of the timewhen she was 10 years old and the teachers in herclassroom asked the children to draw what theythought their Indian village of Brighton should looklike in the future, and she drew one. It was funny tohear her say that she won the contest and that todayBrighton looks a lot like the little sketch she madewhen she was a child.The landscape of Brighton has changedtremendously. No one lives in chickee huts anymore.Except for me. You’ll see an occasional building thatwas built back in the ’50s, still standing, but nowwe have these very modern architecturally designedhomes that easily cost more than $500,000. Or more.Now we have a very modern building knownas the Veteran’s Building, a Senior Center, a newPemayetv Emahakv Charter School. We have abeautiful rodeo arena, and now we have this PublicSafety Administration Building coming to thereservation.As you drive into the complex you would notthink you are on the Brighton Reservation anymore.It looks like you are in some other metropolitan area.But we still have the swamp cabbage palms nearby.If you get out of the community you know you arestill in Brighton, where the eagle is still makinghis nest up in the pine trees, and for some reason,the buzzards are still using the water tower as theirhome. Or a place to roost. If you get away from thecenter part of our community and visit the naturalforest areas of our reservation, you will see all theswamp cabbage trees. The Miccosukee Indianscalled this Brighton haven Thal-chobee-yo-ke – orland of the swamp cabbage palms. Big Cypress onthe other hand is called Ah-shah-we-yo-ke – land ofthe cypress trees.I grew up in Big Cypress, so naturally I wouldlove the area of Big Cypress because of the cypresstrees, the vast waters and sawgrass. But I have beenin Brighton many years, and I love Brighton. But Ihave noticed that my two younger children, Aubeeand Eecho, they attended the preschool and now theyattend Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School and theirhearts belong to Brighton.So at the groundbreaking, I could feel thechange of winds. A new building. New architecturaldesign. And it was good to see Gloria Wilson seeingher dreams come true.Gloria, keep up the good work.Sho-naa-bish.James E. Billie is Chairman of the SeminoleTribe of Florida.knowledge of their heritage,” she continued.Frances’ daughters Debbie and Victoria smiledas they talked about growing up in the camp andthe gift shop their mother operated for more than40 years. Although Frances still sews and doesbeadwork, she closed the shop a few years ago todevote her attention to caring for Wild Bill when hisdiabetes became debilitating. Since his passing, shefocuses her energies on her grandchildren and greatgrandchildrenand offers themthe wisdom of her years.“Grandma has alwaysexpressed the importance oftradition, education and beingself-responsible,” Wynter DawnBillie said. “She has given uspride and purpose. Our ancestorshad their permanent campsbut sometimes had to set uptemporary ones to follow thehunting and growing seasons orseek work in the tourist trade. Weare no different. No matter howfar we have to go to do our jobsand educate our children, we allconsider this camp our permanenthome. My main house is here,but I must keep a small place intown near the schools and office.This is where our hearts are, andthis is where we really live inFrances Osceola’s Camp.”• Tony Sanchez Jr.There is hope. I have seen the signs. I amexcited, really jacked up about it. SometimesI sit and wonder: Am I the only one who isthinking about this? But, to hear the discussions atthe recent School Board meeting, realizing there are anumber of people who are worried and thinking abouthow we can save our language, has really inspired me.I even heard people saying, “Learning our languageshould be mandatory.”They have my full support. I want everyone to knowthat next time there is a meeting or discussion aboutteaching and learning our language, call me and I willcome running. It is that important. I tell my mom, I tellsome of the elders I talk to, that if I could make a wishfor one thing, my wish would be that I would be able tosit here and speak the language with them. It isn’t aboutspending money; it isn’t about living in a big house ordriving a fancy car. No, none of that.I would give anything to be able to sit there,especially in the role that I am in today, and be able totalk to the elders, to find out from them in their ownwords, what exactly was their vision when they wentto Washington, or sat underneath the Council Oak andhad all these meetings. They didn’t do it just to havesomething to do. There was a vision. I would like to hearthem tell me, in our language, and I want to understand.We Seminoles should all recognize the importanceof preserving the culture, the traditions, that make us whowe are. If making some of these teachings mandatorywill contribute to saving them from disappearing intotime, then so be it. Because if we do not take steps now,in a couple generations, our language, especially, will begone. So it is very refreshing to hear that meetings havebeen held and people are even talking about making itmandatory.The incentive? Saving who we are. That shouldbe enough incentive right there. It gets back to peoplestanding up and recognizing that preserving our cultureis a responsibility. It has always been our custom thatthe elders take the responsibility to teach and the youngtake the responsibility to sit and listen and learn. Yes,the parents and grandparents are the teachers. They musttake that responsibility head on, and embrace the realitythat they are the teachers. You know what? You may notnecessarily know how to build a chickee or how to sew.But the language? That’s the key. You lose that language,who are you?English is not our first language. Look at me. I’m,a perfect example of that lost generation of AmericanIndians, where it became absolutely important to learnEnglish. So that’s what I did. I learned English. By thetime I graduated from high school, my native languagewas gone.Since I have been in this role, I often think aboutBetty Mae and Jimmy O’Toole, Bill Osceola, and thosetimes when they were all going up to D.C. saying, “Wedon’t want to be terminated. We want to be federallyrecognized, and we are going to establish a Constitution.We are going to establish a Corporate Charter.” Theyknew those were the mechanisms they had to have inplace. What was that finished product they were hopingto create? My question is, with everything that we havegoing on, are we still going on that original path? Or havewe veered off left and right? We may think we are justdoing great, but when you talk to some of these elders,they may tell you that you are way off track.That’s why having that language is so important.And you know what? If someone told me, I am not goingto get my dividend unless I start going to some of theseclasses, me personally, I would be OK with that. But willthat be the reaction of the majority? I would like to thinkthat they would all say, “Yes!”But it would not be a case where you just put thethreat out there and say, “OK, you have to go take theseclasses, and if you don’t, you are not going to get yourdividend.” I would hope the conversation would be morealong the lines of, “We want to preserve our culture; wewant to preserve our language. We need you to be a partif this. Everyone is going to be a part of it. We want youto be a part of it. We want to train you to be a teacher.”But we also need to make sure that people show upfor these classes. After all, the Tribe would be makingthe investment, spending a lot of resources – manpower,financial and so on – so we want to make sure that youattend these classes and get this training because it iswho you are.You are not just Seminole on the first and Seminoleon the 15th. You are Seminole each and every day.The one thing that will separate you from everybodyelse is your language. I would love to think that everyoneis going to embrace that. They need to embrace that.Because you know what? Living in these nice homes,driving the cars that we drive, that is not us.The lost generation happened because no one spokethe language to us at home. The dominant culture did notwant us to speak our language. Our elders were made tobelieve that English had to be learned to make it in theoutside world. Sure, but we can still live in the modernsociety and not lose our identity. We can still do that.Let’s not let outside influences mask who we are andwhat we are.Take a look at the Jewish faith. The way they dress,their commitment, the amount of time they spend atsynagogue, what they have to practice, the OrthodoxJews who have to walk tosynagogue – those are thethings that make up theirculture; that is a part of theirhistoric beliefs, who theyare. So what they eat, whenthey can drive, when theygo to worship, those are thethings they have to do. Sowhy do we need to be anydifferent?So many differentethnic groups are all overFlorida. Yet, they seem ableto maintain their identity,their native tongues. We need to do the same. It’s notjust the Seminole Tribe, by the way. This is a seriousproblem throughout Indian Country. That lost generationis everywhere.The leaders need to support this, yes, but it is thepeople who will make it happen. We are talking aboutthe Lorenes, the Dianes, the Staceys – they aren’t electedofficials, but they are so important. They are keepingour culture, teaching our culture. So we as leaders needto embrace it. We need to be the champions of thoseinitiatives.We are the Seminole Tribe of Florida, the groupwho fought and was involved in three Seminole Wars,the group who said, “We’re not going anywhere.” Weare the direct descendants of those people and it is ourresponsibility to make sure that we don’t lose that identity.That determination to survive is a part of our DNA.They fought. They didn’t leave. They believed that thiswas where we belong. They had the warrior mentality.So we need to keep a tight hold on that mentality – notjust what drove the Seminole Wars but also what drovethe founding members of the Constitution and Charter.Those men and women fought, too – their battlefield wasin the court rooms.So we just can’t have this laissez-faire mentality.A lot of sacrifices were made, over the years, to get uswhere we are today. Of course, when we are talkingabout maintaining our identity, keeping the language,we must also talk about learning how to function inthe current society, learning how to manage our funds,understanding that getting educated does not mean youhave to forget who you are.Will I be around to see the fruits of the labor that isgoing to be put forth? Hopefully. But if not, my 9-yearoldwill. Just as the people who fought in the SeminoleWars are not around today to see the fruits of the laborthey put in, and the sacrifices that they made. The BettyMaes, the Bill Osceolas, the Jimmy O’Tooles are nolonger here…you could go on and on. They were onlyable to see a small sample of the fruits of their labor. Weare living here experiencing the entire spectrum of thosesacrifices they made and the battles they won.In their later years, most of the language was onlyspoken by the elders. The younger people didn’t know it.Now today, as we become elders, we look down and thekids are the ones who are learning it. Our Tribal schoolsare teaching it and that gives me great hope.I’m excited. However, I can help move that cause;I want to be a part of it. I need to be a part of it. Yes,business is what I monitor. Yes, we are going to besuccessful on the business end. But again, I will notsacrifice the identity of who we are just for the pure sakeof the almighty dollar.It is not just about today. It is time to give attentionand focus on what we want the Tribe to look like 10years, 50 years, 100 years from now. We don’t wantthe reservations to look like all the streets lined withjust palm trees and green grass and all these fancy carsand we can’t even speak the language, we don’t evenknow who we are. All we know is we got tons of moneycoming in. We are much more than that. And the futuregenerations need to know that.Every other ethnic group out there has shown youcan be successful and not sacrifice your culture, youridentity. So let’s borrow a couple chapters from theirbook.We can dress, talk and do everything that is foreignto our culture, but we know that is what we have to doto be a part of mainstream society. It does not mean thatis who I am.I am talking about the importance of being Seminole.Forget about what jewelry I have on. Forget about havingthe latest and greatest phone. But take that away, there isstill substance here. It is Seminole. Material things don’tmake me. It’s about remembering and being proud ofwho you are. I am finding out that we have a lot of peoplewho are willing to teach. I recognize the value they canbring to the table. Come in with an open mind, listen andyou might be surprised. You might walk away learning anew thing or two.I’ll support this any way I can. I want to help furtherthis cause. If what it takes is for individual leaders to bedirectly involved in language preservation to help furtherthat cause, then count me in. I think it is that important.More than anything else, preserving our language –learning our language – gives us hope for our Seminolefuture. God bless the Seminole Tribe.Sho-naa-bish.Tony Sanchez Jr. is President of the Seminole Tribeof Florida, Inc.The Seminole Tribuneis a member of theNative American Journalists Association.Letters/emails to the editor must be signedand may be edited for publication.Subscription rate is $35 per year by mail.Make checks payable to The SeminoleTribune, 3560 N. State Road 7Hollywood, Fla. 33021Phone: 954-985-5701Fax: 954-965-2937Or subscribe online atwww.SeminoleTribune.orgThe following deadlines apply to allsubmissions to The Seminole Tribune:Issue: May 31, 2013Deadline: May 15, 2013Issue: June 28, 2013Deadline: June 12, 2013Issue: July 26, 2013Deadline: July 10, 2013Please note: Submissions that come pastdeadline will be published in thefollowing issue.Advertising:Advertising rates along with sizes andother information may be downloadedfrom the Internet at:http://SeminoleTribune.org/AdvertisePostmaster:Please send address changes toThe Seminole Tribune3560 N. State Road 7Hollywood, Fla. 33021Publisher: James E. BillieEditor-in-Chief: Camellia Smith-OsceolaCamelliaOsceola@semtribe.comSenior Editor: Brett DalyBrettDaly@semtribe.comStaff Reporters:Peter B. Gallagher, Andrea Holata,Beverly Bidney, Eileen SolerContributors:Emma Johns, Judy Weeks,Omar RodriguezIf you would like to request a reporter orwould like to submit an article, birthdaywish or poem, please contactSenior Editor Brett Daly at954-985-5701, ext. 10725Or by fax at 954-965-2937© 2013 Seminole Tribe of Florida

4A • The Seminole Tribune • April 26, 2013Seminole imageryenhances art projectBY BEVERLY BIDNEYStaff ReporterDELRAY BEACH — Delray Beachhas never been a Seminole stronghold, butin the 1800s there were a few Seminolecamps at nearby Lake Ida. On March 14,Delray Beach city officials cut the ribbon tocommemorate the downtown Gateway ArtProject, which features Tribal imagery aspart of the area’s cultural heritage.Created by textile artist MichelleNewman, the six colorful, 30-foot towersflank Atlantic Avenue just east of Interstate95 in Palm Beach County. Conceived in2002 and inspired by the city’s numerouscultural influences – including Seminole,Japanese, African-American, Haitianand the Victorian era – the design reflectsdiversity through stylized images.Newman spent time learning Tribalculture, such as how to make patchwork,in the Hollywood and Brighton Culturedepartments. She used the symbolsfor lightening, birds and turtles in thepermanent installation. During the ribboncuttingceremony, Newman recognized andthanked Tribal members for allowing her tolearn Seminole culture firsthand.“From the beginning, she was interestedin the designs and our history,” said formerTribal President Joe Dan Osceola. “Sheis a very talented lady and this is a greatcontribution to the community. You can seethe Seminole influence – it’s very distinct.”Beverly BidneyOne of the towers contains Seminole imagery,including the yellow turtles and red bird symbolsoften used in patchwork.In return for the access she received,Newman offered to teach Tribal women andchildren silk painting.“I can show you how to paint yourimages on silk fabric,” Newman said. “Iwant to share that with you as my gift. Itwill be my honor to give something back tothe Tribe.”Beverly BidneyFrom left, Joe Dan Osceola, Bobby Frank, Shannon Tiger, Donna Turtle, Bonnie Williams and LetitiaFoster join artist Michelle Newman in front of the artwork.PUBLIC WORKSFrom page 1A“We want the Tribe’s public water to be atthe level of Fort Lauderdale or better. Ourgoal was to identify things that could beimproved and we accomplished it,” he said.Public works handles water andwastewater treatment, distribution andcollection (pipelines), solid waste,recycling and road maintenance. Part ofthe initiative includes creating uniformprocedures within the departmentTribalwide, including the uniformsemployees wear. Every employee islicensed by the state for water andwastewater, which isn’t the case in mostmunicipalities. This makes for wellroundedemployees, and their flexibilitywithin the department boosts morale.“We utilize their knowledge andexperience,” supervisor John Holdmansaid. “When you are just a shift operatorwith a large municipality, it is the samething every day. Here, they do manydifferent things, which makes the job moreinteresting. If you are motivated, you canmake a difference here.”That attitude comes from the top;Osceola encourages a round-tableapproach to decision making.“We’re a strong team, and we letpeople in the field have a say in decisions,”said Osceola, who has worked in PublicWorks for six years and has been directorfor more than a year. “We believe inempowering people and giving themresponsibility.”Hilberto Pacheco, who studiedwastewater and environmental engineeringin college, moved from New York a yearago to work with the Tribe.“It’s been a great ride,” said Pacheco,a Distribution and Collections operator.“I started at the basic level, but the Tribemoves people up from the bottom. I’mlearning everything, and there is a lot ofroom for advancement.”Public Works does its best to promotefrom within; most of the top managerscame from the department. Monthlytraining courses and an open-door policyencourage people to advance their careers.“We try to recruit the best and thebrightest,” Koger said. “But we also trainand retain our own people.”The philosophy behind the year-oldsafety program is that nothing is worthsomeone’s life or limb. Employees learnto step back, take a breath, think about thesituation and do things the right way.There are numerous other statewidecompetitions, and the Public WorksDepartment is enthusiastic about enteringas many as possible.“We want to let the community knowwhat we do,” Koger said. “The healthand safety of the community is the mostimportant thing. Winning this award givesthe community a chance to know what wedo. That’s our reward as a result of theaward.”Beverly BidneyFrom left, Bassem Sanaallah, Hilberto Pacheco, Johnnie Jones, Anthony Osceola, Derek Koger andJohn Holdman are at the Wastewater Treatment Plant in Hollywood.Tribal member Craig Gopherearns a state licenseBY BEVERLY BIDNEYStaff ReporterBRIGHTON — Earning a statelicense to qualify for a job in the PublicWorks Department can be a challenge;rigorous licensing exams test studentknowledge of specific and technicalinformation. Recently, Public WorksQuality Assurance coordinator CraigGopher became the first Tribal memberto earn a Water Distribution SystemOperator License, which qualifies him towork in the Water Plant as a Distributionsand Collections technician.To prepare for the licensing exam,the Tribe allowed interested employeesto take a class. About 15 employeestook the four-day course, followed by a115-question test. Those who passed thetest then took the state exam; Gopher, aswell as a few others, earned his license.“It makes me feel good inside,” saidGopher, 42. “You are never too old toaccomplish things.”Gopher has worked with the PublicWorks Department for about three years– with the last 18 months in the WaterPlant. And he will keep pushing forward;he is working to earn a water andwastewater licenses so he can advanceto become a water plant operator. Hehas about six months of book work tocomplete before he can take the licensingexams. He figuresthe process couldtake up to a year.After serving1991-95 in theArmy, Gopherattended technicalschool to becomean auto bodytechnician. Insteadof going into thatfield, he went towork for the Tribe,which he had doneon and off since hewas 15 years old.Beverly BidneyCraig Gopher.“Maybe I’ll set a good example forother Tribal members to do something,”he said. “It’s not a hard job, but it’s a jobthat can take you a long way. You don’tneed college when you have a license.”Gopher lives in Okeechobee with hiswife, Denise, and children Zachary, 13,and Shyla, 11. He recently was hired towork in Hollywood. Because he believesthe educational opportunities are betterin South Broward, he plans to move thefamily south.“This is a moment of pride forour department because very fewpeople working for the various citiesand counties throughout the state haveaccomplished this feat,” said MichaelJudson, Water Compliance specialist.

Big Cypress to celebrate big 1 – 1 – 75A • The Seminole Tribune • April 26, 2013BY EILEEN SOLERStaff ReporterBIG CYPRESS — Country music starSara Evans will headline festivities May 3-4during the Big Cypress 117th AnniversaryCelebration at the Junior Cypress RodeoGrounds.A grand entrance 10 a.m. each day ofSeminole Tribe officials and royalty willherald the two-day event. Tori Osceola, thegrand prize winner of the 2009 SeminoleStar Search Competition, will kick offentertainment with a performance of theNational Anthem. Colorful dancing by theCentral Plains Dancers and the SeminoleTribe Traditional Stomp Dancers willfollow on both days.Tribal members are invited to modeltheir finest handmade Seminole attire inseveral clothing contests that will highlightold, modern, traditional and contemporarystyles.Critter shows hosted by Okalee Villagewill thrill and delight with native Floridaswamp creatures that hiss, slither, chomp –and set the stage for the mystical sounds ofGordon “Ollie” Wareham’s soulful flute andunique storytelling.Tribal food vendors will sell an arrayof traditional cuisine from sofkee topumpkin frybread, spam with tomatoes andIndian tacos. Some clan families will cookover wood fires, as their ancestors did forcenturies.Merchandise vendors will includeHarley Davidson motorcycles and SouthernDivas jewelry, and intermittent bingo gameswill be held throughout the event.The 117th Anniversary Celebrationcommemorates the Bureau of IndianAffairs’ land purchase in 1896 of a tract ofswampland that, when added to 160 acrespreviously purchased in 1889, became thenucleus of the Big Cypress Reservation.Though Native American ancestorswho eventually became the SeminoleTribe likely made camps throughout SouthFlorida’s Everglades for generations, it wasnot until 1911 that the land was orderedby then-President William Howard Taft tobecome an Indian reservation and not until1936 that it was officially dedicated.Big Cypress Councilman Mondo Tigerhosted a similar festival in 2011 to mark BigCypress’ 115th anniversary.“We’d like to make it a Tribal fairevery year moving forward into the future,”Councilman Tiger said.The multi-platinum selling star, SaraEvans, who is of Native American descent,will take the rodeo arena stage at 8:30 p.m.following a lineup of country music artists,including the homegrown Cowbone Bandand Osceola Brothers and national sensationMorgan Frazier. The night will cap off witha fireworks display.Big Cypress Rep. assistant WovokaTommie said non-Tribal members will geta chance to see a great concert and “theculture, art, history and integrity of a greatnation never conquered by the government.”For Tribal members, the two-day eventwill be a chance to bask in the same.“They can come out and see what’snew, visit old friends, swap stories andpictures,” he said. “And for those who don’twant to cook, they’ll get a chance to eatsome old-fashioned Tribal soul food.”If you go:Gates open at 9:30 a.m. both days.The festival is free but concert ticketscost $35 each through www.TicketMaster.com or www.BigCypressCelebration.com.Wristbands for carnival rides cost $10 forages 12 and older, $5 for ages 5 through 11.Kids younger than 5 get in free.For more information, call 863-902-3200 ext. 13314.Seminole Chairman, Princessesstar at Florida Folk Heritage AwardsBY PETER B. GALLAGHERSpecial Projects ReporterTALLAHASSEE — Floridasongwriter Frank J. Thomas, whose songsabout Seminole Indians and FloridaCrackers are Florida music legend, wasawarded the highest cultural honor in thestate recently when he was inducted into theFlorida Artists Hall of Fame at the FloridaFolk Heritage Awards.Attending the March 20 event inTallahassee were Seminole ChairmanJames E. Billie, Miss Florida SeminoleAlexis Aguilar and Jr. Miss Brianna Nunezwho met with Florida Secretary of StateKen Detzner.Thomas, a longtime friend of theSeminole Tribe, was delighted.“You know for an old Cracker boythat grew up over in rural Clay County it’shard to believe some of this is happening,”Thomas said. “As my friends will tell you,I don’t consider myself nothin’ extra. I havewritten a lot of songs about Florida and Idearly love this state.”Detzner opened the show by introducingChairman Billie to the audience.“Chairman Billie, we applaud yourpersonal vision for cultural programs forthe Seminole Tribe of Florida, includingthe Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum of History,programs for seniors, student educationsprogram and your long-time dedication tothe Florida Folk Festival,” he said.Chairman Billie, a friend of Thomas,gave attendees insight into the SeminoleTribe by describing how Seminoles havefought against and with the U.S. and haveendured.“By the time the Seminole Indiansfinally crawled out of the swamps inthe 1900s and finally got used to theenvironment in Miami, Fort Lauderdale,Naples, Immokalee, Fort Pierce, one of thefirst things that put money in our pocketswas tourism. Somewhere in the Miamiarea, a white man picked up an alligatorand wrestled around with it, a bunch oftourists liked it and said, ‘Hey that wouldlook better if an Indian did it,’ and the nextthing I knew, we started wrestling thosealligators. The tourists would throw moneyinto the alligator pit and the rest of the daywe would spend trying to find those nickelsand quarters. But it served us well.“I grew up around Delray Beach andmy grandmother would take me to the busstation. We had a little chickee hut there andI’d be with my grandmother selling dollsand Indian jackets, and my grandfatherwould be over there carving wood andselling it to the tourists.“There always seemed to be tourism inmy blood. When [the] Seminole Tribe wasorganized in 1957, so be it we had an Indianvillage called Seminole Okalee IndianVillage. We went to alligator wrestling andtried to do other things. These were theyears that the Indians were trying to cuteach other’s tongues out, meaning we weretrying to catch up in this marvelous systemso fast and so bad, with the desire to learnwhat we called ‘the white man’s way,’ tolearn to read English, and do arithmetic andall that when we started into school.”Chairman Billie explained how thisPhoto courtesy of SaraEvans.comCountry music star Sara Evans will headline festivities May 3 during the two-day Big Cypress 117thAnniversary Celebration at the Junior Cypress Rodeo Grounds.Peter B. GallagherChairman James E. Billie and Florida Secretary of State Ken Detzner, along with Seminole royaltyand Aubee and Eecho Billie, take a moment to pose with an actor portraying Spanish explorer JuanPonce de León during the Florida Folk Heritage Awards.led to kids born in the 1950s not knowingtheir own language. However, by the 1970s,Seminoles of older generations beganonce again trying to teach their culture andlanguage.“Today, we are doing well; our cultureis still intact,” he said.Brianna Nunez, Jr. Miss FloridaSeminole, educated the audience abouther dress and patchwork: “Our clothing isknown around the world. In my traveling, Ialways have people come up to me saying,‘Let me feel your dress. Did you make this?’It’s overwhelming.”She went on to explain the patchworkand the meaning of the different designs:“Turtle, Broken Arrow, Panther, Man onHorse – they keep our traditions going. Itgives us a chance to express where we comefrom.”Alexis Aguilar, Miss Florida Seminole,was next to address the crowd, whichobservers said was the largest since theawards began in the late ’80s. She began,as Nunez did, saluting the crowd in her ownlanguage.“You notice Brianna spoke a differentlanguage from me. Because our Tribe isCreek and Seminole, she spoke Creek and Ispoke the Miccosukee language. Our Tribescame together in a melting pot of cultureand that is what you guys know today as theSeminole Tribe,” she said.The evening ended with the inductionsinto Florida Artists Hall of Fame which isFlorida’s highest cultural award.Other 2013 inductees included 19thcenturypainter Laura Woodward, whowas awarded posthumously, and Miami’sown Gloria Estefan. Estefan sent a videoaccepting her award. The awards ceremonyincluded winners of the Secretary of StateHistoric Preservation Awards and theFlorida Book Awards. On hand was anactor from Viva Florida 500 who portrayedPeter B. GallagherChairman James E. Billie is on hand to helphonor Frank J. Thomas when he is inducted intothe Florida Artists Hall of Fame on March 20.explorer Juan Ponce de León on a search, hesaid, for Tribal historian Willie Johns.Thomas, who has written more than 500songs about Florida, is known as the Deanof Florida Folk Music, his songs performedfor decades at venues and cultural eventsthroughout the Sunshine State and onNational Public Radio (NPR).Chairman Billie joined Thomas onstage when his old friend received theaward:“I would like to invite all of you to comeover to the Florida Folk Festival, MemorialDay weekend, in White Springs, a beautifulold town on the Suwannee River, and see acelebration of who we are here in Florida,where all the different cultures cometogether in this one event. The conchs downin Key West, the Tarpon Springs divers, tothe Seminole Indians, the Minorcans overon the East Coast …”Thomas had the last word.“We are Florida,” he said. “And we areshowing ourselves off to the world.”Beverly BidneyKurya Kippenberger holds Casper as veterinarian Amie Lanier gives a rabies shot.Animal Control Programtakes good care of petsBY BEVERLY BIDNEYStaff ReporterThe Tribe’s Animal ControlProgram ensures treasured familypets receive vaccinations, rabies shotsand electronically tracked implantedmicrochips through semi-annual clinics.About 50 Hollywood dogs and catsbrought their owners to the rabies andmicrochip clinic on March 28 outsidethe Health Department.“When the Animal Control Programwas started in 2006, we had animals withrabies,” said Jonathan Vazquez, AnimalControl Program coordinator. “We seea lot more people at these clinics everyyear.”In 2007 the Tribe enacted anordinance similar to the county andstate’s, which requires pet owners toregister their animals annually. Therabies and microchip clinics were heldin Big Cypress, Brighton, Hollywoodand Immokalee. The next clinic will beat Trail on May 2 behind the MiccosukeePreschool.Education is an important serviceprovided by Animal Control.The program reinforces thatanimals stay on their owner’s property,so they don’t become a nuisance in thecommunity. It also focuses on trainingpet owners to keep pets safe and healthy.Other responsibilities includetrapping feral animals and dealingwith wildlife that can endanger people,including alligators, bears, panthers,coyotes and bobcats.“We assess the animals and makesure they aren’t a threat,” Vazquez said.“We have to live with these animals;they’ve always lived here.”Animals are usually captured andrelocated elsewhere on the reservationunless they have lost their fear ofhumans. In that case, animals likealligators are given to Okalee Villageor Billie Swamp Safari. Animal Controlworks with the state to tag and collarbears and panthers for relocation.Raccoons can be a nuisance if theyfind a regular food source, includinggarbage cans.“They are part of nature and theecosystem,” Vazquez said. “Oncethey find a food source, they stay. Weeducate the public on how to securetheir garbage.”Beverly BidneyJonathan Vazquez prepares to give a dog arabies shot as Gus Batista secures the dog.Seminoles increase FloridaFolk Festival participationBY PETER B. GALLAGHERSpecial Projects ReporterWHITE SPRINGS, Fla. — Sincethe Florida Folk Festival began in 1953,the Seminole Indians have been popularparticipants, presenting their unique Nativeculture through dance, song, stories andcrafts on the grounds of the Stephen FosterFolk Culture Center State Park in WhiteSprings.Historically, a group of old chickeeshas marked the north entrance of the park,which borders the historic Suwannee River.Now, workers are rejuvenating thechickee camp by building a new authenticvillage to be completed just in time for the2013 festival set for May 24-26.“I can’t believe it. It is so exciting.We have waited so long for this day,” saidFestival director Elaine McGrath, who isconvinced the new village and performingarea will rejuvenate the entire festival. “Ihave been assured the chickees will befinished by opening day of the festival.We can’t thank Chairman Billie and theSeminole Tribe enough for this wonderfulgift.”In the mid-1990s, Chairman James E.Billie renovated the structures and addeda stage built with cypress and palmettothatch. The music attracted more visitors tothe area – called Ee-to-lit-kee – to observeTribal members cook, carve, chop and sewin the old ways when Seminoles lived inchickee villages.Over the past decade, however, Tribalparticipation waned at the Memorial Dayweekend event – the chickees deterioratedand Ee-ti-lit-kee began to crumble.Discussions to renovate again starteda decade ago between Chairman Billie,Florida State Parks director DonaldForgione and McGrath. Chairman Billiewanted to relocate the Seminole area insidetoward the middle of the park and build itthe way a 19th-century Seminole village inNorth Florida might have looked.The state park officers agreed.At this year’s event, for the first time,Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum staff will operatean information booth near the plannedvillage where a team of Tribal members willprovide cultural demonstrations. The team,assembled by Lorene Gopher and YvonneCalhoun in the Brighton Cultural EducationDepartment, will include Gopher, JennyShore, Nancy Shore, Victor Billie, MollieJolly, Beulah Gopher, Charlotte Burgessand Martha Jones who will demonstrateSeminole sewing, patchwork, cooking,wood carving, doll making and other craftsover the three-day festival.About 300 performances arescheduled. Headliners include songwriter/TV star Jim Stafford, country musiclegends The Bellamy Brothers, bluesmanBen Prestage and Florida Folk patriarchFrank J. Thomas. Country music star BillyDean will make a special appearance onMay 26.The Florida Folk Festival will happenon the grounds of the Stephen Foster StateFolk Culture State Park in White Springs,just south of the Florida-Georgia line. Thepark features one of the largest carillontowers in the United States (it playsStephen Foster music periodically all day)and a grand antebellum museum dedicatedto Foster, who penned the song, Way DownUpon the Suwannee River, or as Fostercalled it, Old Folks at Home.Employee witnesses Boston explosionsBY BEVERLY BIDNEYStaff ReporterBOSTON — Seminole MediaProductions Brighton employee JoseGarcia and his girlfriend, Lisa Molyneaux,took a few days off work to support a friendracing in the Boston Marathon. There, theywitnessed history and walked away shaken,but unscathed.Two deadly explosions near the finishline of the marathon on April 15 killed threeand injured more than 170 people. At presstime, one suspect had been killed, and lawenforcement was searching for the second.Garcia was trying to get to the finishline by taking a shortcut through the Lord& Taylor department store when the firstbomb detonated. On his way outside, thesecond bomb exploded across the street.“Everyone was running and there wasa lot of smoke,” said Garcia, a servicetechnician. “We got about 2 miles awaybefore we stopped to decide what to do next.Like everyone else, we were panicking anddidn’t know what was going on.”Once Garcia determined his friend wassafe, he and Molyneaux breathed easier.“You don’t ever picture yourself inthat kind of situation,” he said. “It wasfrightening because we left our kids athome; I was worried about them.”Before getting on a plane at LoganInternational Airport, Garcia andMolyneaux were interviewed by theMassachusetts State Police and the FBI,who were looking for photos of the scene.They had nothing to help the investigation,but they arrived home safely.

6A • The Seminole Tribune • April 26, 2013CATTLE DRIVEFrom page 3AEfrain Gill, of the Miami Redlands, rode thedrive on horseback with his wife, Elizabeth, and16 fellow equestrians. The group has participatedin trail rides for several years but did not knowanything about Seminole history or that Big Cypresseven existed.“We had no idea that it would be the best ridewe’ve ever done,” Gill said. “It’s organized, thepeople are really nice and it’s great to be able to ridethrough such history.”Ruben Ruiz-Velasco, of Miami, who owns a3,000-acre cattle ranch in Mexico, said he neverexperienced a drive with more cowboys than cattle.“Usually we have one cowboy for every 30cows. Today is very relaxing,” he said.For Big Cypress cowgirl and rodeo competitorAize Henry, riding the swing position in the JuniorCypress Cattle Drive on her home reservation wasabout sharing tradition and culture with the largercommunity.“Cattle has always been in my family and I’vealways been a part of the drive,” she said. “It’s myway of life.”Beverly BidneyAll types of vehicles participate in the cattle drive once it moved onto the paved road at the Brighton Reservation.Eileen SolerElizabeth Gill, of Kendall, makes sure her husband, Efrain,rests.Beverly BidneyA cowboy rides ahead to open the next pasture gate.Eileen SolerSeminole elder Rudy Osceola waves to the crowd.Eileen SolerHorses from a pasture along the route join the event.Beverly BidneyAlex Johns leads cattle with his ever-present whip ready towrangle stray cows during the cattle drive.COWBOYFrom page 1ACowboys also remembered Smith.“He was very proud to be a Seminole Indiancowboy,” Norman “Skeeter” Bowers said. “Growingup, that was also in my heart, which is why I was drawnto him. I was very close to Roger, and I feel like theBrighton community is my second family.”Smith and former President Richard Bowers wereamong the first Native Americans to ring the openingbell on Wall Street during the annual meeting of theNative American Finance Officers Association in 2007.“It was historic,” Bowers said. “I was honored tohave done it with him. As long as we have this cattledrive, we will always remember Roger.”Beverly BidneyCouncilman Andrew J. Bowers Jr. gets in front of an errantcow and directs it back to the herd.Many people connected deeply to Smith in manyways, and over generations.“Our youngest played softball together,” formerChairman Mitchell Cypress said. “In time, he got intopolitics and got a lot of things accomplished. He’dsmile all the time – even if you said something wronghe’d still smile. Fred, Richard, Jack and Roger were thebrothers of Brighton and were involved in what neededto be done in Brighton. They were a family to look upto.”After sharing poignant memories of Smith, all paidtheir respects to his wife, Diane, and daughters DanaOsceola, Trisha Osceola, Amanda Julian and BrittanySmith. The scene was filled with hugs and tears.“I hope this cattle drive continues,” Big CypressBoard Rep. Joe Frank said. “It’s a fitting tribute toRoger.”Eileen SolerScores of cowboys and cowgirls ride in the 17th annual Junior Cypress Cattle Drive at the Big Cypress Reservation.JULY 22-27BUNKYECHO-HAWKPawnee/Yakama NativeArtist & Graphic DesignerFeatured Designer at NikeMEET AND BE INSPIREDBY A NATIVE CELEBRITYInterested in a media field as a futurecareer? At SMPW 2013, develop yourtalents and learn new skills in a fun,creative, and hands-on learningenvironment. Discover the creativeprocess from start to finish in Graphic Design,Journalism, Technical Production, or Broadcasting.@SMPWorkshopwww.facebook.com/SMPWorkshopwww.SeminoleMediaProductions.com/SMPW YOUTH 14-18

7A • The Seminole Tribune • April 26, 2013E a s t e rOmar RodriguezImmokalee residents collect Easter eggs during thecommunity’s party on March 29.Judy WeeksPeggy Osceola, Jenny Doctor and Diane Billie joinTrail Liaison Norman Huggins for a picture.Eileen SolerGirls pull with all their might, even in pretty bunny ears and painted faces, to win a tug-of-war game against the boys March 15at the Big Cypress Reservation Easter celebration.Emma JohnsMary Tigertail collects the most eggs (73 eggs) during the Brightonsenior Easter party.Brett DalyHollywood preschoolers take off to collect Easter eggs during an Easter-themed GetFit Day at the Hollywood Ball Field.Eileen SolerJ-La Billie, Jason Billie, Jason Billie II and Michelle Turrubiartez find theprize-winning plastic eggs at the Big Cypress Reservation Easter party.Peter B. GallagherNancy Motlow paints a ceramic bunnyduring Tampa’s Easter party.Emma JohnsAdriana Gomez is proud of her basketfull of eggs in Fort Pierce.Brett DalyHollywood preschoolers play Easter-themed games on March 22 to celebrate theholiday.Omar RodriguezImmokalee youth scramble for Easter eggs during the community’s holidayparty.Peter B. GallagherTampa seniors get in on the Easter festivities during the community’s holiday party on March 23.Judy WeeksIt’s instant love for the children of the Naples community as they playwith a variety of real-live Easter bunnies.Judy WeeksMembers of Wanda Zepeda’s family gather around her to celebrate Easter in Naples on March 29.Judy WeeksThree-year-old Savannahj Hanks is ‘gettin’ down’ with the Easter Bunnyduring the Trail community’s Easter party on March 26 at the MiccosukeeGolf & Country Club.Emma JohnsParents join in to help little onesnavigate the trees during theEaster egg hunt in Fort Pierce.Judy WeeksSisters Katherine and Lauren Jimshare the laurels in the egg huntin Trail.

8A • The Seminole Tribune • April 26, 2013May is nationalHeart Health Month• Paula Bowers-SanchezThe importance of keeping your hearthealthy is paramount. Your heart is thecontrol center of your body. All your dailyactivities are only possible if your heart is in goodworking condition.Keeping your blood pressure within optimalranges (120 over 80) – along with optimal cholesterollevels, sensible eating habits and getting regularexercise – will help you maintain a healthy heart.Get your blood pressure checked as often as youcan. Many pharmacies and grocery stores have bloodpressure checking stations. So, while you’re therepicking up your supplies or groceries, stop and checkyour blood pressure. You should check with yourhealth care professional for your personal optimallevel according to your age, gender and other factors.Equally important is keeping your cholesterollevels in check. Your total cholesterol should be lessthan 200.Within that number, your LDL number should beless than 100; this is commonly referred to as the “bad”cholesterol. When there is too much LDL circulatingthrough your blood, it can cause plaque build-up inyour arteries, causing them to narrow and hardenand become less flexible. This condition is known asatherosclerosis.Your HDL should be 60 or higher. This is referredto as “good” cholesterol. Studies prove that high levelsof HDL can protect against heart attacks. On the otherhand, low levels of HDL can increase your risk ofheart disease.Your triglyceridesshould be less than 150.Triglyceride is a formof fat made in the body.People with elevatedlevels of triglyceridesusually have a hightotal cholesterol level.Individuals diagnosedwith heart diseaseand diabetes usuallymaintain high levelsof LDL cholesteroland low levels of HDLcholesterol – these individuals also are likely to havehigh triglycerides levels.When talking about controlling blood pressureand cholesterol, make sure to include sensible eatinghabits in the equation. Eating “sensibly” means eatingthe right amount of fats, carbohydrates and proteins. Itdoesn’t mean we have to starve or deprive ourselves ofour favorite foods; it means to be mindful of what weput into our bodies on a daily basis.For example, we know it’s not healthy to eat pizzaor fast food every day. But, it’s OK to have one ofthose choices once in a while.Now, when it comes to exercise, you all know Iam a huge advocate of any form of exercise. As longas you get up and get your body moving for at least30 minutes to an hour, four or more times a week, youwill definitely see improvements.Coming soon: free ‘Springinto Health’ fairsFun, health and fitness will converge in coming weeks during Tribalwide health fairs hosted by the HealthDepartment at four reservation locations. Themed “Spring into Health,” the fairs promise games, prizes,information booths and a nutritious lunch free for all Tribal members, community members and employees.Here’s the schedule:• Immokalee Reservation: 2 – 5 p.m., May 9 at the Immokalee Gym.• Big Cypress Reservation: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., May 23 at the Herman L. Osceola Gymnasium.• Brighton Reservation: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., May 30 at the Florida Seminole Veteran’s Building.• Hollywood Reservation: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., June 10 at the Hollywood Gym.Eileen SolerBig Cypress residents wrap up Stomp the Swamp, a month-long exercise promotion that uses pedometers to shed pounds.Swamp walkers shed poundsBY EILEEN SOLERStaff ReporterBIG CYPRESS — After trying “so many times”to lose weight and get healthier, Sam Tommie said he’son the right track now thanks to a pedometer walkingchallenge called Stomp the Swamp at the Big CypressReservation.“What I always needed was support. Then thepedometer made it much more interesting,” Tommiesaid.The contest, organized by the Big Cypress WellnessCenter, had participants weigh in, measure body massand then walk while wearing pedometers to keep trackof every step.Health educator Sarah Pinto said about 10 peopleparticipated in the six-week effort to lose poundsand gain healthy lifestyle habits. Bragging rights,certificates, fitness gear awards and a chance to win avacation prize provided extra incentive.Weekly meetings at the Mitchell Cypress FitnessTrail kept competitors on track – literally. Pintosaid three laps around the path equals 1 mile. In thebeginning walkers walked 1 mile. They added morelaps as the weeks progressed.A lunchtime wrap up party on March 12 at a gazeboin the exercise park featured a light spread of crisp freshvegetables with dip, homemade meatball sandwiches,water and an awards ceremony.“I didn’t care about the prizes. I challenged myselfevery week and I beat my own record,” said Tommie,who lost 8 pounds. For Tommie, taking home the MostSteps and Most Participation awards in the senior agegroup was just a cherry on top.Other winners were: Vinson Osceola for mostweight lost (10 pounds); Almira Billie for most stepswalked among non-seniors (322,194 steps); andKatherine Billie for most participation among nonseniors(17 participation points out of 24).Alvin Buster, a Fitness specialist for the HealthDepartment at the Herman L. Osceola Gymnasium,led stretches and workouts before and after walks.Participants recorded their daily diet and activity inbooklets. Altogether, the group walked more than 3.5million steps – or about 1,174 miles.All reservations conducted similar pedometerwalking events during the same six-week period butwith different incentives and results.Each reservation is also planning to host a springhealth festival.Health director Connie Whidden said allparticipants were allowed to keep the pedometers, ifthey intended to continue using the devices.“They say (the pedometer) helps to motivate them.It reminds them to walk,” Whidden said. “This programis all about keeping us going and keeping us moving.”So you want to cater food…SUBMITTED BY PATRICK PECKEnvironmental Health Program ManagerIf you plan to start a catering business, you mustcomply with a few basic steps.You will need to register your business andobtain a license from your local Health Department.You also must satisfy the basic food safety trainingrequirements. It is important to note that all involvedin your business will need to obtain (at minimum) theFood Handler Certification.The following tips and tricks will help youestablish yourself as a caterer.1. Decide what kind of catering you would like asyour business’ focus. If you’re just starting out, try tocater small events before engaging in a big event thatmay overwhelm you. Decide if you want to try homebasedcatering, school catering, corporate catering orsmall-event catering. Once you’ve gained experience,you can start courting clients for bigger occasions.2. Make sure that the place you prepare andcook food is impeccably clean – this is one of themost important catering tips. It doesn’t matter if yournew business doesn’t have the same flare as the oldcaterers; what matters is that you’re serving clientsand guests the best food you can offer under thecleanest conditions. Clients might not inspect yourplace, but the Health Department will. So make it apoint to have a clean environment when cooking.3. Aside from the supplies and food ingredients,clients and guests, you also need to have all thenecessary permits, certifications and authenticationsto legalize your business.You need to complete this task before takingon your first client. You can stop by the HealthDepartment offices to find out what certifications andinspections you need.If you will prepare food in your home, expectto make some changes to comply with all the localand state regulations – you will need to have acommercial-type kitchen separate from your homekitchen that is designated specifically for the purposeof the business.4. Finally, be flexible and accommodating to yourcustomers, as they will probably change their mindsabout at least one of the things ordered. While youcannot give in all the time, it helps your businessto provide good customer service. When outlininga contract, make sure you stipulate up front anyadditional charge for changes and substitutions.Starting a catering business can be a fun andrewarding task, but it can also be a lot of work. Whendealing with food, you have to provide a high level ofcustomer satisfaction, as well as pay close attention tothe cleanliness of your prep areas.For more information about catering licensesand food safety training, contact the Tribe’s HealthDepartment at 954-985-2330.Mother’s Day Bracelet Gift SetAvailable Starting April 15Purchase the PANDORA Mother’s Day gift set for $200,featuring a sterling silver bracelet, two “Beveled” clips,one “Mom” charm, and a charm of your choice valued upto $35 with a travel jewelry case (a retail value of $250).**Good while supplies last. See our store for details.TIGER TIGER : NEW ERALEE TIGER’SCD RELEASE PARTYApril 27, 2013 8:00 pmThe Swamp in Seminole Paradiseat Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & CasinoThis free concert is a tribute to the Seminole Tribe’sacquisition of Hard Rock International, which inspiredLee Tiger to write the song “Red Rocks the Earth”Lee Tiger and the Tiger Tiger Bandwill perform at 10:00pmIntroduced by Mindy Lang, Magic 102.7’s #1 DJAt Seminole ParadiseSeminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino954.583.3035FREE CD GIVEAWAY TO THE FIRST 20 GUESTSDoor prizes including other CDs, casettes, and signed photographsCD Now available on iTunes and CDBaby.com"One Earth, One People, Come Together"www.tigertigermusic.com • www.facebook.com/lee.tiger.77

9A • The Seminole Tribune • April 26, 2013Hah-Tung-Ke: Lee TigerMysteries at the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki MuseumSUBMITTED BY TARA BACKHOUSECollections ManagerMany of you may be familiar with thepopular Travel Channel series Mysteries atthe Museum, where charismatic host DonWildman travels around the country tounearth dramatic stories tied to objects atmuseums. Such plots make for engagingTV, but perhaps bear little resemblance toreality. The real stories of mysteries at theAh-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum – and many othermuseums – may not be as catchy, but theimplications are great and the opportunityfor discovery is equally amazing.In many museums, staff changes andorganizational inefficiency, especially inthe early years of developing museums,may create unavoidable gaps in recordkeeping. In an ideal situation, museumstaff would keep records of its collectionitems so that objects’ origin, age andcreator are known. Staff assign trackingnumbers to objects in collections, and thesame number is written on any relatedpaperwork. The objects are then stored ina safe place. For most objects, the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum knows this informationand has the paperwork. But sometimes,despite the best intentions of the Museum,the information is lost. A staff member maylearn the information about an object andplan to write it down later and then forget.Or the paperwork that accompanied anobject may get separated from the objectitself.When that happens, the Museum doesthe best it can. Putting things into “mysterylots” gives the Museum a way to organizethe objects and to start re-gatheringinformation. An object in a mystery lot getsa number, and gets entered into a database,but it does not have much informationattached to it. The Museum tries to rectifythe situation as soon as possible. If detailsof the object are unknown, the Museumcan’t share knowledge with the communityand can’t give credit to the creator or thecreator’s family.There are several ways to gatherinformation about these objects. It is oftenpossible to locate the missing associatedpaperwork. It may also be possible to trackdown staff members who can providemore information. But, it is especiallyrewarding when the donors themselves, ortheir families, can identify these items andprovide the information necessary to helpthe Museum fulfill its mission.You may be able to be a part of thisprocess. These pictures are a few examplesof mystery objects in the Museum’scollection. If you recognize them, or if youthink you know who made them, please letthe Museum know. And if you want to seemore mystery items, call the CollectionsDivision at 877-902-1113 ext. 12246 oremail TaraBackhouse@semtribe.com. Asalways, the Museum is also happy to showoff non-mystery items.Photo courtesy of Ah-Tah-Thi-KiMystery Lot Doll: The Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museumneeds help identifying this Seminole doll’shistory.With your help, the Ah-Tah-Thi-KiMuseum can solve its own mysteries atthe museum, and it will be much morerewarding than watching a TV show.BY PETER B. GALLAGHERSpecial Projects ReporterMIAMI — When Miccosukeemusician Stephen Tiger died after atragic home fall in 2006, his brother andlongtime Tiger Tiger bandmate Lee Tigerslipped into a long depression.“I lost interest in everything I wasdoing,” said Lee, who, in addition to themusic he took around the world with hisbrother, had led a very successful careeras a global marketer of American Indianeco-heritage tourism.“I dropped out, man. But deep inside,I knew my brother would want me tokeep going,” said the 62-year-old Nativemusician. “I had to re-evaluate everythingin my life. I came to focus on this newalbum and began to work real hard craftingthe songs. It brought me back out again.”The album, titled New Era, will beofficially released Saturday, April 27,with a live concert at The Swamp (locatedat the Hollywood Seminole Hard RockParadise adjacent to Bongos). The albumfeatures a song Tiger said was inspired bythe Seminole Tribe of Florida.“I was just musing about theSeminole Tribe one day, thinking about allthe success they have had, imagining thishuge Hard Rock empire that they own andcontrol now,” he said. “I thought abouthow far all of us had come and, especiallythe Seminoles. Suddenly the phrase, ‘RedRocks The Earth’ came to my mind.“I couldn’t get it out of my mind. RedRocks The Earth. And it became a songthat I am very proud of. It fits in perfectlywith the theme of this album. The new erafor American Indians.”A stadium-worthy anthem fueled withpowerful guitar licks by South Floridaguitar slinger Raiford Starke, Red RocksThe Earth does not refer to the SeminoleTribe by name but “this song is definitelyabout and for the Seminole Tribe. Theyhave shown the rest of us the way,”said Lee, who combined a 21st-centuryresonance with his own classic rock rootsfor what he said is a new signature sound.“It is new music that tells the story of thesurvival of our Native American people.”Stephen Tiger died a month after heand his brother achieved their greatesthonor – The Lifetime AchievementAward from the Native American MusicAssociation. The award honored their 40-Photo courtesy of Lee TigerNative American musician Lee Tiger releases anew album, with a song inspired by Seminoles.year Tiger Tiger career as America’s firstgreat Native rock band. The Tiger brothersspent the 1960s and ’70s appearingalongside rock icons such as Jimi Hendrixand Led Zeppelin and touring the world,settling for a while in California, wherethey appeared at legendary clubs such asthe Whiskey a Go Go and the Troubadour.The brothers grew up on theMiccosukee Reservation and in nearbyboarding houses, as the sons of legendaryMiccosukee Chairman Buffalo Tiger.Responding to a plea from their fatherto return home to Florida and use theirmusical talents to help the MiccosukeeTribe, the Tiger brothers moved backto Miami in the early ’80s, where theylaunched successful tours of SouthAmerica and Europe and appeared atmany Native global marketing events.Lee Tiger supervises both Lee Tiger& Associates, a Native American tourismdevelopment firm, and TTM Records,which handles the substantial catalogueof Tiger Tiger music. As he has for years,Lee maintains a business relationship withthe Miccosukee Tribe of Florida Indians,where he consults in community outreachand communication/marketing issues,often acting as a spokesperson for Tribalmatters.Photo courtesy of Ah-Tah-Thi-KiMystery Lot Basket: The Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum needs help identifying thissweetgrass basket’s history.Seminole People of Florida exhibitreturning to state museum in MayBY PETER B. GALLAGHERSpecial Projects ReporterTALLAHASSEE — The Museumof Florida History will revive the popularSeminole People of Florida: Survival andSuccess exhibit, from May 17 to Aug. 18.The temporary exhibit honors the Seminolepeople, their remarkable story of survivaland success, and their unique culture thatendures today.The exhibit, previously on display in2007-08, provides a glimpse into Seminolehistory, culture and artistic traditionsfrom the mid-1850s to the present, withparticular focus on the rich material culturethat the Seminoles created and sustainedduring the late 19th and 20th centuries.The exhibit features more than 90artifacts, including several examples ofclothing from the museum’s collection ofSeminole artifacts. Other artifacts to bedisplayed include baskets, dolls, jewelryand utilitarian items. In addition to artifacts,a variety of historical photographs, colorfulgraphics and informative text panels willbe displayed.Photo courtesy of Florida Museum of HistoryJane Tiger Motlow made this cape and skirtensemble in 1954.The Seminole exhibit returns “becauseit was really, really popular, according tofeedback from visitors. People love NativeAmerican exhibits and we figured thiswould be a great summer exhibit for us,”said senior curator Lisa Barton.Return visitors will notice new anddifferent displays, including severalartifacts on loan from the Seminole Tribe’sAh-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum, including anearly 19th-century bandolier bag, a 1930swooden doll and nine paintings by the lateSeminole artist Noah Billie.“That will be the biggest obviouschange,” Barton said. “Those wonderfulNoah Billie paintings fill an entire wall.”Billie was a well-respected artist ofthe Seminole Tribe. His art offers a modernperspective on Seminole history andculture, and it captures the traditional wayof life.Also new, from Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki, is theearliest artifact in the exhibit: a beadedbandolier bag dating between 1820 and1840. Both Creek and Seminole mencommonly wore shoulder pouches ofthis type, which were popular from thePhoto courtesy of Florida Museum of HistoryThis palmetto fiber doll of a man and baby wasmade by Maggie Osceola.Photo courtesy of Ah-Tah-Thi-KiMystery Lot Coat: The Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum needs help identifyingthe history behind this Seminole patchwork coat.early 1800s to the 1860s. These beadedaccessories perhaps were copied frombandolier bags worn by British soldiers tohold ammunition. The strap was worn overthe shoulder and across the chest with thepouch at the hip.The exhibit includes several notableitems, such as reproductions of GeorgeCatlin’s illustrations of Osceola, Micanopyand other Seminoles; 24 colorfulpatchwork garments, several made bySeminole seamstress Jane Tiger Motlow;and traditional Seminole objects, such aspalmetto dolls, sweetgrass and palmettobaskets, wood carvings, women’s legshakers and a rattle made by Seminoleelder Bobby Henry.The Museum of Florida History hasscheduled an opening event for May 16,featuring live music and a talk by SeminoleTribal historian Willie Johns. Monthlyprogramming is scheduled to highlight theexhibit, featuring live music presentationsby scholars and authors specializing inSeminole culture and history. For moreinformation visit the museum’s website atwww.MuseumofFloridaHistory.com.Photo courtesy of Florida Museum of HistoryThis long shirt is the oldest garment in theexhibit.‘Red Rocks The Earth’Red rocks the earth, red rocks the earthRed rocks the earth, red rocks the earthEver since the dawn of time, we all knewEverything was fineIf we can just touch your mindsCome get together, across the linesRed rocks the earth, red rocks the earthRed rocks the earth, red rocks the earthRed rocks the earth, red rocks the earthRed rocks the earth, red rocks the earthNow our lives have changed for goodWe all celebrate this time with youMade some changes in our livesGood things happened with all our TribesRed rocks the earth, red rocks the earthRed rocks the earth, ha, red rocks the earthTomorrow lies a brand new dayIt makes us happy to hear you sayThe night is good the day gets betterTomorrow knows, the earth comes togetherThousands of years of occupation:Tribal Historic Preservation Officeinvestigates Naha Tiger CampSUBMITTED BY MAUREEN MAHONEYTribal ArchaeologistThe Tribal Historic Preservation Officerecently investigated the Naha Tiger Campas a site eligible for the Tribal Register ofHistoric Places. Located in the northernportion of the Brighton Reservation in themid-20th century, the camp was occupiedby Naha Tiger, his wife, Lucy, and hergranddaughter Sally Tommie Billie.Naha Tiger was born in 1886 toMolly Tiger and Captain Tom Tiger andplayed a significant role in the Tribe asa Medicine Man and as one of the firstcattle representatives for the BrightonReservation. Naha’s wife, Lucy, was thedaughter of Polly Parker and Henry Parker.The Naha Tiger Camp was establishedbetween 1948 and 1957. Prior to this time,Naha Tiger and his family had at least threeother known camps – two on the BrightonReservation and one in St. Lucie County.The camp in St. Lucie County was occupiedin 1930, but based on documentary evidenceit appears that Naha Tiger and his familyhad moved to the Brighton Reservation by1939. The final camp occupied by NahaTiger, Lucy and Sally was established withthe construction of Billy Bowlegs Road.This camp consisted of four structures,Photo courtesy of THPOThis projectile point was discovered within theNaha Tiger Camp site area that may have beencreated 8,000 years ago.Photo courtesy of THPONaha Tiger played a significant role in the Tribeas a Medicine Man and as one of the first cattlerepresentatives for the Brighton Reservation.which included a storage chickee that wasalso used as a guest room, a dining chickee,another storage chickee and a sleepingchickee. A dirt road led into the centralportion of this camp. No components of theNaha Tiger Camp remain today.As part of the investigation of thearea with the Naha Tiger Camp, the TribalHistoric Preservation Office conducted anarchaeological survey that found evidencethat the area had been used for thousandsof years. While the site has seen continuousclearing and some modern construction,remnants of a past prehistoric site remain.The oldest item found at the site includesa projectile point that may have beencreated 8,000 years ago. Animal bonesfound at the site help show the diet ofprevious occupants and the pottery thatwas discovered would have been used bypeople for storage purposes.One of the most significant parts ofthe Tribal Register nomination processis determining the future use of the site.Based on community input, the NahaTiger Camp will be listed as an area thatcan be used to remember the great rolesthat Naha Tiger played in the Tribe. If youhave any information about the Naha TigerCamp, or would like to list a site on theTribal Register, contact the Tribal HistoricPreservation Office at 863-983-6549.

10A • The Seminole Tribune • April 26, 2013The Environmental Resource Management Department would like tothank all of those who stopped by their booth at the Big Cypress EasterCelebration on March 15. Community members and children were allencouraged to plant seeds to bring home to start agarden. This year we raffled off three gardening giftbaskets and two guava trees. The winners of the giftbaskets were Louise Billie, Edna McDuffie and RandallOsceola. The grand prize guava tree winners were Claudia Doctor and Barbara Billie.http://www.oramsnurseries.com.au/fruiting.htmlThank youWillie Frank LibraryJames Patterson has created moreenduring fictional characters than any othernovelist writing today. He has also hadmore New York Times best sellers than anyother writer, according to Guinness WorldRecords.Since his first novel won the EdgarAward in 1977, Patterson’s books have soldmore than 240 million copies.Patterson has also written numerous No.1 best sellers for young readers, includingthe Maximum Ride, Witch & Wizard and theMiddle School series. In total, these bookshave spent more than 220 weeks on nationalbest seller lists.In 2010, Patterson was named Authorof the Year at the Children’s Choice BookAwards.His lifelong passion for books andreading led him to create the innovativewebsite ReadKiddoRead.com, giving adultsan invaluabletool to find thebooks that getkids reading forlife.He writesfull-time andlives in Floridawith his family.New JamesPatterson titlesavailable atthe WillieFrank Libraryfor checkoutinclude: Alex Cross, RUN; Tick Tock; 1st ToDie; Private: #1 Suspect; Private London;Daniel X; Witch & Wizard; and MaximumRide Books.Visit the library today and check outone of these great books and also view anew exhibit of Seminole items on loan fromthe Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum.Congratulations2013 NAYObasketballtourney winnersAbout 125 Tribal members attended the Native American YouthOrganization’s (NAYO) annual basketball tournament, held March 28-30, in Seneca, N.Y., including seven Seminole teams and supporters.Athletes came from Seminole, Cherokee, Choctaw, Seneca and PoarchCreek Tribes to compete in the tournament, which was categorized byage on teams of 12-to-14 and 15-to-17 year old boys’ and girls’ teams.Results:12-14 Girls1st Place: Xtreme (Choctaw)2nd Place: I.A.C. (Seneca)3rd Place: Seneca Nation (Seneca)12-14 Boys1st Place: MBCI Storm (Choctaw)2nd Place: Cherokee Tropicals3rd Place: MBCI Native Flights (Choctaw)15-17 Girls1st Place: Sundown (Seminole)2nd Place: U.L.S. (Seminole)3rd Place: EBCI (Cherokee)15-17 Boys1st Place: J.U.S. (Seminole)2nd Place: Silky Smooth Skinz (Cherokee)3rd Place: Seneca Chiefs (Seneca)CorrectionIn the March issue of The SeminoleTribune, Delancé Carrillo was misidentified.We apologize for any confusion this might havecaused.Edna L Frank, Store Owner: 954-558-6298 ● edlfrank07@yahoo.comGet Out of Jail Fast!Call Myrna Loy (954) 583-9119. Tribal dividends,MasterCard and Visaaccepted.24 hours • Speedy Release •Professional Service.1128 NW 31st Ave., Ft.Lauderdale, FL 33311THRIFTARELLA'SUsed Furniture-Home Goods-Gifts and More!4300 Davie Road-across from RodeoTuesday-Saturday 10-6 p.m.www.thriftarellas.com954.587.0818Christine & Dominick

11A • The Seminole Tribune • April 26, 2013NATIONAL NATIVE NEWSBasketball daughters bringpride to Umatilla ReservationPhoto courtesy of Associated PressMISSION, Ore. — Even thoughpowerhouse Connecticut rolled all overLouisville, winning 90-62 in the NCAAwomen’s basketball championshiprecently, fans in Indian Country havebeen honored by the two athletic NativeAmerican sisters from a reservation innortheast Oregon who led the LouisvilleCardinals into the NCAA finals.Umatilla Indian Tribal membersShoni Schimmel, a junior guard, and hersister Jude, a sophomore guard, haveachieved rock-star status in Mission,and nearby Pendleton, and are knownto American Indians across NorthAmerica, where their exploits as collegebasketball stars have been broadcast allover the world; not to mention glorifiedin the outstanding documentary about theSchimmels, Off the Rez, which premieredin 2011.Family friend Connie Sams describeda typical scene following a game: “Whenthe game was over you go outside and youcould hear people cheering. All the kidsin the neighborhood had a basketball andwere outside shooting. You know theywere pretending they were Shoni and Jude– the boys and girls the same.”In fact, the two athletes havepioneered a style of all-out basketballcalled “Rez ball” that formed the spine ofthe Louisville 2013 team.“They’re just paving the way for anew generation of kids that are going tobe like, ‘Yeah, that’s awesome they cando that,’” said Shana Radford, anotherfriend. “They’re on ESPN; they’re doinginterviews. It’s just so cool to see themin the mainstream, to see Natives in themainstream. It’s just never been done. It’shistory.”During the NCAA Tournament, JudeSchimmel was awarded the NCAA Elite89 award, which honors the individual whohas reached the pinnacle of competition atthe national championship level in his orher sport, while also achieving the highestacademic standard among his or her peers.The Elite 89 is presented to the studentathletewith the highest cumulative gradepoint average participating at the finals sitefor each of the NCAA’s championships.Schimmel, who is majoring insociology, currently carries a 3.737 GPA –the highest GPA among all players in theNCAA women’s basketball Final Four.– OBP.orgPoarch Band squares offagainst Attorney GeneralMONTGOMERY, Ala. — AlabamaAttorney General Luther Strange’s“strange” lawsuit against the PoarchBand of Creek Indians has been movedto Federal District Court, where the Tribehas demanded it be dismissed.Two months ago, Strange askedan Elmore County Circuit Court Judgeto shut down the Poarch Band’s threecasinos as “a public nuisance.” The slotstyle,electronic bingo machines used atthe casinos are illegal in Alabama, Strangesaid. The Poarch Band, though, contendsthat the state’s lawsuit is preempted bythe federal Indian Gaming Regulatory Act(IGRA).Even if the state did have legalstanding to sue a sovereign nation, saidthe Poarch Creek motion, it could not usea state “nuisance claim” as a way aroundthe IGRA.– AL.comCounty backs Fort Sill ApacheTribe’s casino planDEMING, N.M. — Doña AnaCounty commissioners unanimouslyOK’d a statement of support for the FortSill Apache Tribe of Oklahoma’s plan fora casino in an adjacent county.– El Paso TimesOklahoma, Cheyenne andArapaho Tribes ink casino dealOKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. —The Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes tookdown their free-play Internet gamingsite, PokerTribes.com, after the state ofOklahoma refuted their right to operate it,under terms of their compact.But the parties reached a newagreement allowing the Tribes to re-launchthe site for real money bets if the websiteis exclusive to players outside the U.S.and if the Tribes pay the state 20 percentof the proceeds. Oklahoma Gov. MaryFallin and Cheyenne and Arapaho TribesGov. Janice Prairie-Chief Boswell signedthe agreements in an April 5 ceremony atthe state Capitol in Oklahoma City.The home page of PokerTribes.com currently states the real-time, realmoneywebsite will go live this summeron “the web, mobile, iPad, laptop, desktopand apps near you.” And the website,developed and managed by UniversalEntertainment Group, won’t be relegatedto poker. It will offer a variety of casinogames like bingo, blackjack and pull-tabs.The Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribesoperate two brick-and-mortar casinos inthe state, both named Luck Star Casino, inConcho and Clinton.– ICTMN.comHard Rock acquires optionson land for traffic planWEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass. —Hard Rock International has takenout options to buy three properties onMemorial Avenue in West Springfield aspart of its plans to improve traffic flow toa proposed $700- to $800-million casinoproject on land along the east side of theEastern States Exposition campus, part ofa $35-million-plus traffic plan that HardRock CEO James Allen said will not onlyhandle anticipated casino traffic, but alsoimprove existing traffic patterns.“We are truly trying to be part ofthe community, enhancing the existinginfrastructure to make it better for allgoing forward,” Allen said.– MassLive.comNIGC named one of bestgovernment places to workWASHINGTON, D.C. — TheNational Indian Gaming Commission(NIGC) was recognized as one of the bestsmall agencies to work for in the federalgovernment, so said a survey by thenonprofit Partnership for Public Service.NIGC’s No. 11 ranking (among 362federal agencies and subcomponentswith less than 100 employees) was thecommission’s highest since the index wasdeveloped.– NIGC.govAlaska Tribes win land trust suitversus Secretary of InteriorWASHINGTON, D.C. — AWashington, D.C. district court hasfound that the Secretary of Interior hasthe authority to take land into trust forAlaska Tribes – a ruling that places AlaskaNatives on equal footing with other NativeAmerican populations.The state of Alaska had argued thatthe Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act(ANCSA) of 1971 prohibited the secretaryfrom taking land into trust.Judge Rudolph Contreras, however,ruled in favor of the Akiachak NativeCommunity in its lawsuit against formerSecretary Ken Salazar. The Tribalgovernment for the village, which ison the Kuskokwim River near Alaska’ssouthwestern coast, argued that a federalregulation blocking the secretary’sacceptance of trust land only in Alaskawas unlawful.“The ruling is an importantrecognition of Tribal self-determinationand trust status will protect Tribes fromlawsuits, taxation and foreclosure,” saidattorney Heather Kendall Miller, whoargued the case on behalf of AlaskaTribes. “The ruling will allow AlaskaTribes to petition the secretary to havenon-ANCSA lands placed into trust andthe opportunity to enhance their abilityto regulate alcohol, respond to domesticviolence and generally protect the health,safety and welfare of Tribal members.”– Indian Country Media NetworkNorthern Ute may lower blood,raise enrollmentFORT DUCHESNE, Utah — TheTribal nation with North America’sstrictest enrollment criteria may soondecide on more flexible rules that might, ifadopted, dramatically increase the Tribe’scurrent 3,000-plus membership.A pending secretarial election (not yetscheduled) could lower the five-eighthsUte Indian blood degree requirementfor membership in the Ute Indian Tribe,Uintah and Ouray Reservation (NorthernUtes), which occupies some 1.3 millionacres of trust land containing significantoil and gas deposits.The proposed constitutionalamendment resulted from a petition signedby a “large number of Tribal members”calling for change, in hopes of allowingincreased enrollment, sources said.“We’re financially stable and we’regiving our people identity,” said ValentinaSireech, who works in Ute economicdevelopment, “but if we’re financiallyable to do that, we should be sure togive the kids their identity. As some say,though, if we’re not able financially to dothat, maybe we can’t.”The kids she mentions are childrenwho may have a parent of full Uteheritage but who lack by an eighth degreethe quantum required, or children of fullIndian heritage who lack the required fiveeighthsUte quantum.A controversial vote, the secretarialelection will be administered by the BIA,not the Ute Indian Tribe.– Redlakenationnews.comChippewa leader rips statein ‘State of Tribes’ speechMADISON, Wis. — Lac CourteOreilles Band of Lake Superior ChippewaChairman Gordon Thayer took Wisconsinofficials to task in the annual State ofthe Tribes address, accusing them ofspreading “propaganda” in a disputeover fishing, harming the state’s naturalresources with legislation easing themining permit process and failing to givethe Tribes enough credit.The address was a manifestation ofhow fractured the state’s relationship withWisconsin’s six Chippewa Tribes hasbecome. The two sides have clashed overa host of environmental and conservationissues during the past year and a half.“We can’t be dismissed as a subgroupof people in Wisconsin,” Thayer said.“That’s all I’m saying. We’re here.”The feud began when Republicansintroduced bills to establish the state’sfirst organized wolf hunt. The Chippewahave taken special exception to the wolfhunt. They see that animal as a spiritualbrother.The mining bill was designed to easethe path for a company called GogebicTaconite to open a 4.5-mile long openpit mine just south of the Bad RiverChippewa’s reservation; that Tribe fearsthe mine will pollute their water.The proceedings began amiablyenough, with legislators greeting Triballeaders as they took their seats in the StateAssembly Chamber and standing as theTribes carried their flags past the maindais.Thayer’s remarks so angeredAssembly Speaker Pro Tem Bill Kramerthat he walked out of the chamber duringthe speech.“When you’re continually talkingabout collaboration but tell us everythingwe did wrong . . . I don’t think my walkingout was any more disrespectful to thespeaker than the speaker was disrespectfulto us,” Kramer said.– Sheboyganpress.comNavajo Code may allow2-percent sales tax on junk foodWINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — TheNavajo Health Education and HumanServices Committee (HEHSC) isconsidering an amendment to the NavajoNation Code to allow for a 2-percent salestax on junk food and the elimination ofsales tax on fresh fruits and vegetables.Legislation co-sponsor Jonathan Nezsaid he lost 100 pounds since changinghis eating habits, attributing much of hisweight loss to exercising and taking partin the Navajo Nation’s “Just Move It”program.The generated tax revenue couldraise substantial sums of money to benefitprograms that are facing sequestrationbudget cuts, Delegate Nez said; the taxalso encourages local communities to bemore self-determined and self-sufficient.After two hours of deciding on theissue, the HEHSC members chose to holda work session to explore and address theissues and concerns that were broughtforth.HEHSC members voted 4-0 to tablethe legislation until a work session takesplace.– Navajo PostShoshone-Paiute ChairmanTerry Gibson walks onOWYHEE, Nev. — On the eveningof April 4, Tribal Chairman Terry Gibson,of the Shoshone-Paiute Tribe of the DuckValley Reservation on the Nevada/Idahoborder, passed away at age 52. Accordingto Gibson’s son, Buster Gibson, he died asa result of a heart attack.“Chairman Gibson served the peopleof our community as an employee,Council member and as Tribal Chairman.His presence will be missed and his losswill be felt by not only those locally butby many throughout the nation,” said theTribe in a statement. “We thank you inadvance for your condolences, thoughtsand prayers during this time.”– Nativeamericanencyclopedia.comSally Jewell wins confirmationas Interior SecretaryPhoto courtesy of Associated PressWASHINGTON, D.C. — SallyJewell, Seattle-born CEO of outdoorretailer Recreational Equipment Inc.,won easy Senate confirmation April 11to be the nation’s next Interior Secretary,overseeing more than 500 million acresof national parks and other public lands,plus more than 1 billion acres offshore– including lands used for energydevelopment, mining, recreation andother purposes.The Senate approved her nomination87 to 11, with all the “no” votes comingfrom Republicans.One of the first challenges Jewell,57, will face is a proposed rule requiringcompanies that drill for oil and naturalgas on federal lands to publicly disclosechemicals used in hydraulic fracturingoperations. The administration proposed adraft ‘‘fracking’’ rule last year, but twicehas delayed a final rule amid complaintsby the oil and gas industry that the originalproposal was too burdensome. A new draftis expected this spring.Jewell also is expected to continue topush development of renewable energysuch as wind and solar power, bothof which are priorities of the InteriorSecretary she succeeds, Ken Salazar.President Barack Obama said in astatement that Jewell’s extensive businessexperience – including her work as apetroleum engineer – and her longtimecommitment to conservation made her theright person for the job.‘‘She brings an important mix ofstrong management skills, appreciationfor our nation’s tradition of protectingour public lands and heritage, and a keenunderstanding of what it means to begood stewards of our natural resources,”Obama said.– Boston GlobeKen Salazar leaves topInterior job with no regretsPhoto courtesy of Indian Country Today Media NetworkWASHINGTON, D.C. — InteriorSecretary Ken Salazar has packed up hisphotos and most of his books and is takinghis paintings down from the wall. As thetransition begins for the retiring Salazarand his recently confirmed successor,Sally Jewell, Salazar muses over hiseventful four years in office. He points toa small vial of oil recovered on July 14,2010, from the BP Oil Spill in the Gulf ofMexico.“I’m not sure if I’ll take it,” Salazarconfessed, though he said the federalreforms and restoration funding stemmingfrom the Deepwater Horizon disaster haveleft the country better off. “The legacy, ofit, I think, is a positive one.”During an interview with theWashington Post, Salazar said he wassatisfied with his accomplishments.“I don’t know that I would have doneanything differently,” he said. “I feel verygood and very much at peace.”Coping with the oil spill dominatedhis time during 2010, admitted Salazar,who promoted renewable energy both onpublic lands and in federal waters, aftertaking over a department that embraced amind-set of “drill everywhere.”Salazar also touted the nine nationalmonuments President Barack Obamahas declared over the past four years,including five the president designated latelast month. He described preserving thosehistoric, cultural and environmental sites,including Colorado’s Chimney Rock andNew Mexico’s Rio Grande del Norte, asacts that “will be seen as foundational tothe conservation legacy of this president.”– Washington PostTex Hall receives 2013 WendellA. Chino Humanitarian AwardPHOENIX, Ariz. — Tex Hall, thelongest serving Chairman of the Mandan,Hidatsa and Arikara Nation, received theWendell A. Chino Humanitarian Award atthe National Indian Gaming Association’s(NIGA) 2013 Indian Gaming Tradeshow& Convention.A well-known and respected leaderin the Indian and non-Indian communitieson the state and national levels, ChairmanHall has dedicated his life to protectingsovereignty and defending Tribalgovernments.The award was given during NIGA’sannual Banquet during at the PhoenixConvention Center.Chairman Hall currently servesas President of the Native AmericanBasketball Invitational Foundation. Heis a founding member and spokespersonfor the Coalition of Large Tribes (COLT)representing Tribes with large land bases.“This award signifies leadership,humility, strength and honor,” ErnieStevens Jr. said. “Tex Hall exemplifiesall of those qualities. He continues totake charge when many do not, but whiledoing so, instills courage to others, manyof which are in this banquet room. Indiancountry, and the MHA Nation are strongerbecause of the efforts of this man.”Mark Chino, Wendell Chino’s son,presented the award to Chairman Hall.Wendell Chino, the award’s namesake,is an iconic figure in Indian Country. Hewas a nationally recognized leader ofthe Mescalero Apache Nation, servingmost of his life as his nation’s president.He implemented his Tribal economicphilosophy by turning the MescaleroReservation into a small business modelthat raised his Nation to a level of economicgrowth never before experienced by theMescalaro Apache Tribe.The Seminole Tribe of Florida’sSpecial Projects Department – a branch ofSeminole Media Productions – producedthe video tribute played during the NIGAWendell Chino Award dinner on March26.– Indian Gaming WeeklyGenting starts cruiseto Bimini casinoNORTH BIMINI ISLAND —Genting (USA) Ltd., the company thathas been trying to change Florida laws tobuild a super casino in Miami for yearswithout success, has apparently chosenthe next closest geographic alternative: afast cruise to Bimini, the nearest offshoredestination to South Florida where a fullcasino can operate, except for Seminoleand Miccosukee Tribal casinos.Resorts World Bimini Bay isscheduled to open December 2013 atBimini Bay Resort & Marina, featuring a10,000-square-foot casino with full-scalegaming tables, slots and sports bettingin a venue similar to Genting’s Londoncasinos.The boat, recently purchased byGenting, is the 32,728-ton fast ferrySuperfast VI (to be renamed BiminiSuperfast for service from Florida to theBahamas).The ship is capable of carrying 1,600passengers, with berths for 934 overnightpassengers. It is 669 feet long with a beamof 82 feet. As the name implies, it canoperate at a very high speed of around 28knots and will be able to complete the 48nautical-mile distance from the Floridacoast in around 2.5 hours.– Maritimematters.comHard Rock’s John Fontanahonored by Florida Council onCompulsive GamblingPhoto courtesy of Hard Rock TampaJohn Fontana, left, with Paul Ashe.ORLANDO — John Fontana,president of Seminole Hard Rock Hotel& Casino Tampa, was awarded with theTreatment Award from the Florida Councilon Compulsive Gambling (FCCG) in aceremony at the DoubleTree Hilton onApril 5.This is the first time a member of thegaming industry has been recognized withthe award.“Words cannot sufficiently expressthe work of John Fontana, this year’sTreatment Award recipient, and thedifference he has made in the lives ofproblem gamblers and their families,”FCCG President Paul Ashe said. “Whilemost individuals give lip service to theconcern for problem gamblers, he haslong proved his dedication to the cause onan ongoing basis.”The Treatment Award was created torecognize an individual or organizationthat has significantly furthered treatmentservices or support to the problemgambling population in Florida.A 10-year member of the FCCG’sBoard of Directors, and its current vicepresident, Fontana spearheaded theinitiative which secured funding from theSeminole Tribe of Florida, resulting inaccessible treatment for persons in needof help for a gambling problem withinFlorida.To support individuals with acompulsion to gamble, the SeminoleTribe of Florida operates a Self-ExclusionProgram, established to allow peoplewith a gambling problem to voluntarilyexclude themselves from casino gamingactivities in all Seminole casinos.Also, in collaboration with the FCCG,the Seminole Tribe of Florida assists infunding 1-888-ADMIT-IT, Florida’s 24-hour, toll-free help line for casino playerswith a compulsion to gamble. The helpline is used in ads and on all marketingmaterials for the Seminole casinos.– Prweb.com

12A • The Seminole Tribune • April 26, 2013Big Cypress Council Rep.MANUEL “MONDO” TIGERand Community Welcome You To TheJunior CypressRodeo GroundsBig Cypress SeminoleReservationMAY 3Gates Open9:30AMFestivities start at 10:00AMConcert $35. Starts at 5:30PMCarnival Tickets$5 for ages 5-11$10 for ages 12 & overBLACKJACK BILLYMORGAN FRAZIERwww.bigcypresscelebration.comwww.ticketmaster.comOSCEOLA BROTHERSTHE TY REDD GANG

1B • The Seminole Tribune • April 26, 2013Tribe launchesProfessionalDevelopmentProgramBY BEVERLY BIDNEYStaff ReporterMax Osceola Jr. tells the Police Explorers the history of the Council Oak under its branches on April 9.Beverly BidneyPolice Explorers learn their historyunder the boughs of the Council OakBY BEVERLY BIDNEYStaff ReporterHOLLYWOOD — As the HollywoodPolice Explorers prepare for their annualtrip to Washington, D.C. – the seat of thefederal government – they learned aboutthe Seminole Tribe’s government and howit was established. Former HollywoodCouncilman Max Osceola Jr. met theExplorers on April 9 under the Council Oakto share the history of the Tribe.“Back in the 1950s, the Tribe sat underthis tree and made some big decisions thataffect you today,” Osceola said. “This iswhere the Tribe was formed; it is part ofyour history.”Osceola told the kids about the “olddays” when Tribal members lived inchickees and farmed nearby fields wherethe Classic Casino stands today. The Tribewas always organized but never had aformal government. Federal recognition bythe U.S. government required the Tribe tocreate a constitution of their own.Meetings were held under the CouncilOak where members formed a committeeto write a constitution and a charter. Tribalmembers voted to ratify their Constitutionand Corporate Charter on Aug. 21, 1957.“The Constitution is like a rule bookon how we run the government,” Osceolaexplained. “It’s like rules of the game inbaseball; it’s three strikes, not four. Therules are followed.”The children learned that Tribalgovernment, which was set up using U.S.Congress as an example, consists of aCouncil and a Board. Council membersand Board representatives each have twoyearterms; the Chairman of the Counciland President of the Board have four-yearterms.“This tree saved our Tribe and let usplan for the future,” Osceola said. “You arethe future. You need to go to school becausewe need you to learn how to run the Tribe.”When the Tribe wrote the Constitutionand Corporate Charter, they couldn’tenvision the Hard Rock, but they knew anopportunity would come along to allow theTribe to prosper, Osceola said. In 2007, theTribe purchased Hard Rock Internationaland subsequently owns 120 cafes, ninehotels and four casinos in 52 countries. Aphoto captured the moment when the Tribesigned papers allowing the purchase.“We came back to the Council Oakto sign that resolution and now that photois in every Hard Rock Café in the world,”Osceola said. “In 1957 our annual budgetwas $12,000. Today it is about $1 billion.We’ve come a long way, but we have tomanage the money. You can’t spend it alltoday; you have to make sure to save somefor tomorrow.”Osceola told the Explorers someof them could be doctors, lawyers,professional athletes, entrepreneurs andmore. But he also told them they could besuccessful business people just by workingwith the Tribe.Explorers listen attentively as they learn the significant history of the Council Oak.“This is a significant and sacred placeand I’m proud to be here,” he said. “It’sthe responsibility of the elders to teachBeverly Bidneythe young. It’s your responsibility toknow about the Council Oak and tell yourchildren about it. Share your knowledge.”Dasani Cypress captures national science awardBY EILEEN SOLERStaff ReporterALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Takingfirst place in a school science fair is exciting.Winning a No. 1 spot at the NationalAmerican Indian Science & EngineeringFair (NAISEF) is huge.“It was a very fun learning experience,”said Dasani Cypress, a seventh-grader atAhfachkee School.In December 2012, Cypress’ How WellPhoto courtesy of Patricia JollyDasani Cypress poses next to her national award-winning science project, How Well Do You KnowYour Water, during the National American Indian Science & Engineering Fair in Albuquerque, N.M.Do You Know Your Water science projectwon first place at Ahfachkee, which led herto the NAISEF fair and convention heldMarch 21-23 in Albuquerque, N.M. There,she blew away judges to take first placein the national environmental sciencescategory of the contest.About 260 elementary, middle andhigh school students from Indian Countrycompeted in nearly 30 categories thatincluded computer science, health science,molecular science, animal science and bioengineering.Patricia Jolly, an instructional aide atAhfachkee, accompanied Cypress on thetrip. Students Janessa Jones and SabréBillie also attended to enter their Afhachkeefirst-place projects from December, thoughneither placed at NAISEF.“Both Janessa and Sabré showed well.It was a good experience for everyone.They enjoyed the trip,” Jolly said.Cypress’ project took about a monthof research and follow-up to determinethe quality of water that flows through BigCypress and the impact the water’s naturalfiltering system has on the community. Shecredits Lisa Meday, Whitney Sapienza,Christopher Fuller and Craig Tepper,of the Tribe’s Environmental ResourceManagement Department, for help thatincluded sharing data already at hand andanalyzing Cypress’ own collected watersamples.“Not a lot of people are aware that BigCypress is a big part of our water filteringsystem,” Cypress said.At the core of the project, Cypressset out to discover if water coming intothe reservation was cleaner or dirtier thanwater going out. She was concerned aboutthe effects of water runoff from cities andagricultural land beyond Big Cypress.“It’s the minerals that collect that worryme. Too much can kill plants and fish,” shesaid in December during an interview at theHerman L. Osceola Gymnasium where theschool’s science fair was staged.Cypress hopes to continue the project.On April 3, Meday sent an email toCypress’ mother, Danielle Jumper-Frye,indicating that the department will continueits own job of gathering data to monitor thewater quality. They will share their findingswith Cypress.Meday also invited Cypress to tagalong with the department in July andAugust during aquatic diversity studiesin Big Cypress and Brighton. The studywill link biological (fish, bugs, algae, etc.)findings to water quality.Cypress is all for it.“I would like to continue my project,to learn more about our water quality, tosee if it is improving and to take the projectto another level,” she said.Education doesn’t end with graduationfrom high school or college – it is a lifelongendeavor. The Education Departmentrealizes this simple fact and has designedprograms to encourage Tribal members tocontinue learning in the real world.The revamped Tribal ProfessionalDevelopment Program has threecomponents: Summer Work Experience,Work Experience and Advanced CareerDevelopment. Each component has specificrequirements and directives based on theparticipant’s age and educational level.“The program is more than a placementagency; it’s an educational experience,”said Marie Dufour, ProfessionalDevelopment Program manager. “This isa comprehensive program that will benefitboth the participants and the Tribe in thelong run.”The program aims to create futureleaders and to build on the investmentthe Tribe has made in education. Thenew structure of the program will helpparticipants learn skills and behaviorsto help them succeed academically andprofessionally. Additionally, the programwill act as a liaison between the Educationand Human Resources departments.The Summer Work Experience beganin 2005, and the goal of the nine-weekprogram is largely the same: to exposeTribal youth to various departments withinthe Tribe so they can begin thinking abouta career. Previously for youth ages 14to 18, it is now open to people from ages14 to 24. Another new requirement is a2.0 GPA. Participants will rotate betweendepartments to glimpse the career diversitywithin the Tribe.“We want to encourage them to aligntheir academic journeys to match futurecareer opportunities with the Tribe,” Dufoursaid. “This is an awesome opportunity. Moststudents don’t know where their educationwill lead them; we can focus their educationto match their interests.”Summer Work Experience participantswill rotate through several departmentsduring the summer program. Last year,more than 50 kids participated in theprogram. Applications will be availablein the Education Department on eachreservation starting May 6. The deadlinefor applications is May 31, and the programruns June 10 through Aug. 12.The Work Experience component, atwo-year program geared toward people ages18 and older, provides professional growththrough on-the-job training. Participants,who must have a high school diploma orGED, will learn the core competenciesneeded in each department. The programaims to provide Tribal members withemployment opportunities that will developtheir work ethic, help them build a resumeand learn effective interviewing skills.“We want to give the participant asmuch experience as possible to learn whatthey need to succeed in each department,”Dufour said. “We used to be just a placementopportunity, but now we will develop theparticipants as employees.”Following specific curriculum, eachdepartment will train participants, tracktheir progress and help them understandwhat is expected of them. The participantswill spend enough time in each departmentto master those skills. The evaluationprocess is an essential part of the program.The Professional Development team willevaluate the joint performance of thedepartments and the participants to makesure things run smoothly for all involved.Work Experience is not a new programbut it has been revamped to meet theneeds of the Tribe and the employees. Theparticipants, which are limited to 60 people,will be paid while they are in the program.Advanced Career Developmentparticipants will work directly withmanagement while grooming to be futureleaders of the Tribe. Participants must be18 and older and have an associate degreeor higher, as confirmed by the EducationDepartment. Participants will rotate betweendepartments within their individual careerarcs. The goal is to get Tribal members intomanagement positions within the Tribe.College graduates can join theprogram to gain experience working withsupervisors, managers and directors andto increase organizational and operationalexperience. The Education Departmentrecognizes Tribal graduates need to developworkplace expertise, and the ACD offersthe opportunity to gain those skills. Theprogram is projected to begin early 2014.“The Professional DevelopmentProgram can develop peoples’ skills andmake them true professionals,” Dufoursaid. “That will let them give back to theircommunity, and not many people can saythat.”For more information about the TribalProfessional Development Program, emailMarieDufour@semtribe.com.

2B • The Seminole Tribune • April 26, 2013Storytellers span generations, keeping Seminole legends aliveNew Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum series will take place throughout TribeBY BEVERLY BIDNEYStaff ReporterSeminoles tell stories as a way ofpassing information, legends and moralsdown through generations. In keeping withthe tradition, preschoolers were invitedto a Seminole Storytellers program at theHollywood Senior Center on March 21.During the intergenerationalstorytelling, sponsored by the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum, the group of 3- and 4-yearoldchildren sat on a rug and listened toGordon “Ollie” Wareham and Paul Bustershare their fables. Despite their best effortsto listen, the preschoolers were easilydistracted. The young crowd was more ofa squirming, wriggling mass of cuteness,but it didn’t stop either storyteller fromreaching the moral of their tales.Wareham began the event by playingsongs on a Native American flute. As thechildren settled into their seats, he told thelegend of the Rabbit and the Box Turtle.“We have some bad people in thesestories to teach you kids how not to act,”Wareham said. “We are Seminoles, andthat is more than our DNA. It’s about theknowledge we have and the stories told byour grandparents and parents.”Master of ceremonies Van Samuelsintroduced the storytellers and engaged thepreschoolers.“When I was your age, these storieswere told to me,” said Samuels, Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Community Outreach specialist. “Ifyou listen closely you might hear about ananimal you know.”With that, Buster took his seat at thefront of the room and began speaking inElapoonke, or Mikasuki, to the children.“Make an effort to be a goodSeminole and learn your language,” saidBuster, cultural language instructor in theHollywood Culture Department.He went on to tell a story aboutprocrastination. The person in the story sawsome berries when they were green and toohard to eat. Then he saw them when theywere ripe but didn’t go out to gather any. Bythe time he went out to get the berries, theywere shriveled and no good. The lesson:Avoid putting tasks off and do them whenthe time, and the berries, are ripe.“Telling the story in English takesabout 50 percent out of it,” said Buster, whowould have preferred to tell it in Elapoonke.“Listen to your teachers, moms and dadsand you will do well.”Buster sang a song for the children, inEnglish and Elapoonke.“We want to get the seniors to interactwith the children,” said Melissa May, Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Programs manager. “We hopeas the program grows, other seniors will feelcomfortable enough to share their stories.”The Seminole Storytellers programwill be held on May 23 in Big Cypress.Beverly BidneyGordon ‘Ollie’ Wareham tells the story of the rabbit and the box turtles, using hand gestures and facial expressions to entertain Hollywood youth.Big Cypress hosts own storytelling sessionTraditional legends can be passeddown anytime and anyplace said BillyWalker, of the Big Cypress Reservation,who entertained about a dozen children withstories April 2 at the Willie Frank MemorialLibrary.“A long time ago we’d sit by the fireand hear the stories. Listening to the legendswas our television,” he said.Walker, a storytelling alligator wrestlerand wildlife guide, shared tales that teachrespect for humanity and nature. He alsorecanted a legend of how several centralFlorida bodies of water, including LakeOkeechobee, came into existence – thanksto two hunters and a snake.Walker knows nearly 40 legends thathave been passed down through generationsby word of mouth. For some people, Walkersaid, it can take a lifetime to “get” themessage.Staff reporter Eileen Soler contributedto this article.Beverly BidneyHollywood preschoolers laugh during one of the stories told by Gordon ‘Ollie’ Wareham.Eileen SolerBilly Walker tells a group of children in BigCypress the part of a Seminole legend when aboy turns into a tree.Eileen SolerBilly Walker poses with children April 2 at the Willie Frank Memorial Library in Big Cypress after aspecial after-school storytelling hour.Eeyaataale, you protect themthrough good and bad, becausethey would do the same for you.LOYALTYKaylan Osceola, 11th Grade – I selected this picture because it is of my aunt and unclewhen they were younger, and it’s cute. The value I selected is Loyalty. I selected thisvalue because they’re brother and sister and I know no matter what they argue aboutthey’ll always be family. You should always stay loyal to family.Family always stickstogether.PERSEVERANCEMalari Baker, 11th Grade – I selected this picture because it is my great grandma in it.Growing up she didn’t really have a lot but no matter what she always took care of herfamily and kids. She obviously did a good job because the baby’s all fat in the picture. Ichoose the value Perseverance because it goes with the way she was and also the way shetaught us to be. It means to keep going no matter what obstacles or hard times come.

Former Seminole Tribunewriter inspires young authorsBY EILEEN SOLERStaff ReporterBRIGHTON — Every time MichaelJames writes, he answers an expectation.James, a former professionalphotographer and Seminole Tribunejournalist, met Patrick Smith whilereporting Smith’s 1999 induction into theFlorida Artists Hall of Fame.Two of Smith’s books, Forever Islandand Allapattah, focused on Seminoleculture and struggles.“We sparked a friendship then startedwriting letters, and in every letter Patrickwould tell me to keep writing,” James said.When James left South Florida at age37 to study nursing at University of NorthCarolina at Chapel Hill, Smith did not letup.“He sent another letter that said, ‘I hopeyou’re writing,’” James said.James, now 52, is the son of anOkeechobee dentist who in the 1960s servedthe Tribe. James said he practically grewup on Big Cypress Reservation, where heforged many friendships. After establishingtwo photography studios and a career thattook him coast to coast, his photographybecame nearly exclusive to the Tribe and hebegan to write in 1995.Last year, the photographer/reporterturned nurse, who now works as a kidneytransplant coordinator at University ofNorth Carolina Hospital, obliged Smith bypublishing three books and a short storyall influenced by his experiences with theTribe.One of the novels helped fulfill anotherpromise.Billy’s Camp was culled from days hehunted wild turkey and boar with an oldbuddy who had a camp in Big Cypressduring the 1990s, before the huntinggrounds became an animal refuge. Hisfriend died in 1999.“The last conversation we had, Billytold me to write about our times,” Jamessaid.The book and James’ other missives –Bone Diggers, Turning Final and Pirate’sGhost – were on display April 3 at the BillyOsceola Memorial Library on the BrightonReservation, where James led an afterschoolbook writing workshop for eightchildren, all students at Pemayetv EmahakvCharter School.“I want the children to know that it’simportant to write,” James said. “That’show we know about people 50 or 100 orso years ago. It’s because someone wrote itdown.”The workshop began with a challenge:“Why don’t we write a book just for the funof it?” he asked.Now James is committed to new muses.“Even though I live 700 miles away, wewill write this book together,” he said.The children bubbled with ideas.They brainstormed the necessary partsof a story and what they would want to reador write. The decision? They would writeabout playing hide-and-seek after schoolon the reservation – and the title would beFunny Book.Later, the children used coloredmarkers to create the book’s front cover art.The pretty scene included a horse, trees,flowers and a chickee.James and the children will finish thebook in coming months via the Internet,phone and letters with help from DeborahJohns, site supervisor for the library.“It’s my first time to ever write a book.It will have a horse, a pig and they willall play together. It will be magical,” saidAshlynn Collins, 7.“I just can’t wait to tell friends that I aman author,” said Talena Holata, also 7.Johns said it was coincidence that theevent happened.One day she was surfing the Internetlooking for books relating to NativeAmerican topics and recognized James’name from his days as a Seminole Tribunereporter. Four days later, James called “outof the blue” to ask if he could host the kid’sworkshop.“It’s great to have Michael back here.He promotes reading and shows the childrenthat writing is something they can do – theycan put their thoughts on paper,” Johns said.“Now, when the children pick up a book toread, they will know what the author did tomake the book happen.”3B • The Seminole Tribune • April 26, 2013Photo courtesy of Brighton Culture DepartmentSeminole boys work on re-thatching a chickee located on the Okeechobee Freshman Campus aspart of the school’s annual Heritage Day.Students participatein Heritage DayBY EMMA JOHNSFreelance WriterOKEECHOBEE — Every year, theOkeechobee Freshman Campus honorsits diverse student population by hostingHeritage Day. Each ethnicity representedat the school is invited to share theircultural background through relevantdemonstrations with the student population.On April 22, ninth-graders from theBrighton Reservation and Brighton Culturestaff participated in the event. The Seminolestudents began their presentation with anoral representation of Seminole culture tothe student body.Each student shared his or her Indianname with fellow students. Rumor Juarezdemonstrated the Creek language with arendition of a traditional song, MichaelGarcia demonstrated the Creek Pledgeand Royce Osceola shared a traditionalSeminole legend.Later, students gathered outdoorsto further learning about different ethnicgroups represented.The Seminole students participatedby showing how to re-thatch a chickee bycompletely repairing the one located oncampus.The girls exhibited their knowledgeof how to prepare and cook traditionalpumpkin bread. The students and Culturestaff also displayed an array of traditionalSeminole arts and crafts.The Seminole students were able toengage in leadership roles and share theirknowledge of the Tribe by answeringquestions peers had about the culture of theSeminole people.They also enjoyed sharing samplesof pumpkin bread with students almostas much as their fellow students enjoyedeating the bread.Eileen SolerAuthor Michael James hosts a book writing workshop with children April 3 at the Billy OsceolaMemorial Library on the Brighton Reservation. The children and James will work together viaemails and phone conversations to write and illustrate a book they have already named Funny Book.Eileen SolerNaleah Billie and Talena Holata draw the coverart for a book they will title Funny Book.Charter School teacher winsGlades County Teacher of the YearPhoto courtesy of Brighton Culture DepartmentLahna Sedatol skillfully fries pumpkin frybread for her peers to sample.Student spotlight:Amy DimasEmma JohnsThe Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School Teachers of the Year, along with principal Brian Greseth and other teachers and staff, pose for a picture duringthe Glades County Golden Apple Banquet on April 3.BY EMMA JOHNSFreelance WriterMOORE HAVEN — The GladesCounty School Board held its annual GoldenApple Banquet and Awards Ceremony onApril 3 to honor the county’s outstandingteachers and support staff for the schoolyear.Victoria Paige, a second-grade teacherat Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School, tookhome top honors from the banquet, as shewas recognized as the 2014 Glades CountyTeacher of the Year. This recognition is thehighest achievement an educator can earnwithin her school district.“Being named Teacher of the Year…has been a great honor,” Paige said of hernomination at PECS. “Knowing that theequally dedicated and highly professionalindividuals I work with supported mynomination was indeed a humblingexperience.”For more than 34 years, Paige hasdedicated her career to the education ofchildren, and her resume speaks for itself.She was formerly named Teacherof the Year and Volunteer of the Year inOkeechobee County and also received theprestigious WPEC TV CBS12 Educator ofExcellence Award in 2000. Paige praisedher PECS family and her own family fortheir dedication and support of her career asan educator.Paige is the second teacher fromPECS who has received the Glades CountyTeacher of the Year Award.PECS Middle School Teacher of theYear Quenten Pritchard and Support StaffEmployee of the Year Linda Long werealso recognized during the banquet for theireducational achievements at PECS.Current and former students, alongwith PECS principal Brian Greseth, hadvery encouraging and supportive words toshare about all the honorees.During the event, held at the DoyleConner Building in Moore Haven,Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School wasalso recognized as a Golden Apple Sponsorfor their continued support of the GoldenApple Banquet.Emma JohnsElementary teacher Victoria Paige is named the2014 Glades County Teacher of the Year.BY BEVERLY BIDNEYStaff ReporterIMMOKALEE — Being a motherof three school-age children can be areal challenge; homework, dinners andextracurricular activities all take time beforebedtime. Amy Dimas, of Immokalee, had tojuggle her children’s busy schedules withher own rigorous requirements to graduatefrom Hodges University in Naples. Despitethe obstacles, Dimas earned a bachelor’sdegree in health studies in the fall of 2012.“It took a lot of time management tomake sure they were taken care of first,”said Dimas, 29, of Lehigh Acres. “I madesure their homework was done and theywere in bed before I started mine.”That meant Dimas would get to herown assignments after 9 or 10 p.m., workuntil the early hours of the morning andthen get up to wake the kids for school. Itwas tough, but she focused on her goal.Dimas, the daughter of RaymondGarza and Dolores Hernandez Lopez,originally studied massage and became acertified massage therapist, but she couldn’tsee herself working as a masseuse for therest of her life.“I wanted more out of it,” she said. “Ilearned massage wasn’t the career for me. Iwanted to do more rehab therapy.”Although the course work wasdemanding, Dimas enjoyed it. Her biggestchallenge was finding the time to study,which she did anywhere she could – evenin the car as she waited for her children toget out of school.Now that she has an undergraduatedegree, Dimas plans to get a doctorate inphysical therapyat FloridaGulf Coast University.She ultimatelywantsto open herown physicaltherapy practicebut doesn’tknow what shewill concentrateon, perhapspediatricsor trauma. TheFGCU physicaltherapy doctoralprogram willtake three yearsPhoto courtesy of Amy DimasAmy Dimas plans tocomplete her doctorate inphysical therapy.to complete and includes clinical work, soDimas will have a chance to experience thedifferent specialties within the field.Dimas is motivated by her children,Haylie Holloway, 12, Harlie Holloway, 9,and Joshua Dimas, 5, who inspire her tosucceed. She knows graduate school willbe a challenge, but she will take thingsone step at a time instead of worryingabout future curriculum. She knows shecouldn’t have gone this far without thesupport of her husband, mother and sisters,who helped care for the children when sheattended class.Dimas, who works in the library onthe Immokalee Reservation, believes thesecret to success is simple enough and isapplicable in all areas of life.“Keep going, keep pushing and don’tdwell on yesterday,” she said. “Don’t evergive up because you’ve come to a rock inthe road; just keep going.”

4B • The Seminole Tribune • April 26, 2013Artist Elgin Jumper passes down palate of know-howBY EILEEN SOLERStaff ReporterBIG CYPRESS — Not even witha swish of his brush would Seminoleartist Elgin Jumper paint himself to be aneducator.“I am not a teacher, but I am an artistwho likes to share with other artists.Children? They are emerging and inspiringartists,” he said.On April 10, Jumper, whose paintingshave been exhibited in several art booksand venues including the Ah-Tah-Thi-KiMuseum, provided a multitude of paintsupplies and a wealth of knowledge tochildren at the Big Cypress Reservation’sEducation Center.The event was the second fine artspainting workshop hosted by Jumper, ofHollywood, and sponsored by the WillieFrank Memorial Library for people of allages. On hand to help were library sitesupervisor Gretchen DeBree and Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum’s programs managerMelissa May – who also tried her hand atpainting.A rainbow of acrylic and oil colors inplastic and metal tubes filled a supply table.Watercolor containers and neatly packedboxes of pastel sticks flanked paper towelsand water cups at creation stations wherestudents sat before large sheets of papertaped to cardboard.“The most important rule to rememberis: There are no rules,” Jumper told thegroup.But there are guidelines.Jumper explained various paintingstyles by displaying some of his works.He showed a cubist painting of thegreat Seminole warrior Osceola; animpressionistic landscape view of thesunrise east of Snake Road; and a modernart piece in which he scrolled his name inloops.As students eagerly began, Jumpershowed them how to “contour” the subjectof their art piece by using pencil to outlinetheir idea. He demonstrated how to applywater over the pencil drawing, then brushon watercolors. He suggested layeringacrylic and pastels to add dimension to thework. He coached them to “dry brush” fortexture.“Co-mingle your mediums and try tobe versatile,” Jumper advised.Most children created with blues,purples or greens as prominent colors but allincorporated one or more of the Seminolecolors – yellow, black, red and white.“I really like the Seminole colors, but Ialso like purple,” said Jaiven Washington, 8,who outlined his name in gray surroundedby swaths of blue and purple.Jalee Wilcox, 7, showed deliberatetechnique with her rendering of a brownpuppy amid hearts and a peace sign. Eightyear-oldAkira Cabral’s thick royal blueacrylic was punctuated in purposeful candyred lines.“For us to be able to paint whatever wewant is the best part of art,” Cabral said.Jumper, who studied art at BrowardCommunity College and with Nilda Comasat the Legacy Art Studio in Fort Lauderdale,said creating art requires practice.“It’s a journey of discovery,” he said.The finished workshop pieces will beframed, then exhibited at the library. Thepieces created in the first workshop inMarch have been delivered for display atthe Big Cypress Boys & Girls Club.DeBree said children and adults arewelcome to attend a special Mother’s Dayworkshop 2 p.m. on May 8. Children willbe encouraged to create pieces for theirmothers.Jumper said kids and adults need to beexposed to art and be given the opportunityto create as often as possible.“Seeing art and doing it makes livesbrighter – it’s all good,” Jumper said. “TheSeminole Tribe wasn’t built in a day. TheSeminole artist can’t be built in a dayeither.”Eileen SolerAspiring artist Markayla Cypress gets a little hands-on help from established Seminole artist ElginJumper during the April 10 painting workshop.Eileen SolerSeminole artist Elgin Jumper poses with ‘emerging’ artists after a workshop April 10 at Willie FrankMemorial Library at the Big Cypress Reservation.Eileen SolerSeminole artist Elgin Jumper talks aboutvarious painting styles while showing examplesfrom his own work during the workshop.Eileen SolerPeggy Sue Cypress concentrates on drawing theoutline for her original painting.Eileen SolerDylan Robbins and Chanon Frye discuss whatcolor acrylics and oils to use during the artworkshop.Children and Grandchildren of TribalCitizens (Descendants)You may be eligible for AdultEmployment and Training servicesand/or the Florida Indian Youth Programthrough the Florida Governor’s Council onIndian Affairs, Inc.Programs include GED or High SchoolCompletion, Vocational Training, TechnicalTraining or College.Veterans receive the highest priority.Employment and Training Programapplications accepted year roundIf interested, call 1-800-322-9186, email:info@fgcia.comOr, download an application at www.fgcia.comFlorida Indian Youth ProgramAccepting applications now.Call for Applications and information1-800-322-9186info@fgcia.com, or see www.fgcia.com

Students receive third nine weeks awardsEmma JohnsSixth- through eighth-graders receive Culture Awardsduring the third nine weeks award ceremony atPemayetv Emahakv Charter School.BY EMMA JOHNSFreelance WriterBRIGHTON — On April 11, facultyand parents gathered at Pemayetv EmahakvCharter School to recognize kindergartenthrough eighth-graders for their third nineweeks achievements.Awards were given for effort, citizenshipand overall academics in the classroom.Bronze Awards were presented to studentswith a GPA between 3.0-3.4, Silver Awardswent to students with GPAs ranging from3.5-3.9, and Gold Awards were presented tostudents with perfect 4.0 GPAs.The Culture Department recognizedstudents for writing and speaking skills,arts and crafts skills, and overall effortduring Creek class. And coach ChrisGoodwin recognized students for athleticimprovement and performance in physicaleducation class.5B • The Seminole Tribune • April 26, 2013Emma JohnsCreek Spelling Bee winners pose with their ribbons: from left, second-place winner RaeleyMatthews; third-place winner Heath Lawrence; and first-place winner Aiyana Tommie.PECS holds annualCreek Spelling BeeBY EMMA JOHNSFreelance WriterGopher and the second-place winner wasHeather Dobbs.Emma JohnsRudy Juarez receives a Gold Honor Roll Award fromprincipal Brian Greseth for having a 4.0 GPA.Emma JohnsStudents are recognized for theirphysical education performance.Sixth- through eighth-graders receive awards for classroom special recognition.Emma JohnsBRIGHTON — The Culture staff atPemayetv Emahakv held the annual CreekSpelling Bee to help install the traditionallanguage in youth.Prior to the March 20 event, studentsin second through eighth grades competedin individual class Creek spelling bees toidentify top students from each grade. Thewinners advanced to the final competition.The Creek bee emulates a traditionalspelling bee in its execution; students aregiven a word by the proctor, and then theymust say the word, spell it and say the wordagain.Native Creek speakers Jenny Shoreand Ginger Jones served as judges andmonitored the correct spelling of eachword. The Judges monitored the spellingsvery closely because the Creek language isnot written phonetically.Many students had mastered a solidfoundation of the Creek alphabet that mostspelled the words accurately and spokethem fluently.The winners were: First place,seventh-grader Aiyana Tommie; secondplace, sixth-grader Raeley Matthews; andthird place, fourth-grader Heath Lawrence.A parent/teacher Creek Spelling Bee wasalso held following the student spellingbee. The first-place winner was MyraEmma JohnsHeather Dobbs, left, and Myra Gopher celebratetheir spelling bee wins.TICKET BROKERS \\\\\\\\\\\\\\WHERE THE SEMINOLE AND MICCOSUKEEGET VIP TICKETS & SERVICE SINCE 1985FEATURED EVENTSBEYONCÉLIL WAYNE???MIAMI HEAT PLAYOFFSJOIN US ON FACEBOOK!UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\CROSBY, STILLS & NASHTIM MCGRAWFLEETWOOD MACRASCAL FLATTSHEART/JASON BONHAMBRAD PAISLEYNKOTB/98 DEGREES/BOYZ II MENBEYONCÉLIL WAYNEJONAS BROTHERSJAY Z/JUSTIN TIMBERLAKEBRUNO MARSMAROON 5DEPECHE MODEKEITH URBANONE DIRECTIONMIAMI HEAT PLAYOFFS954-436-99054101 Davie Road Ext.Davie, FL 33024www.BrowardMotorsports.comEVENTS: 305.443.300024 HOUR TEXT LINE: 305.450.3323TRAVEL: 305.445.65660% SERVICE FEE ONALL ONLINE ORDERS!\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ WWW.TICKETPLACE.COM OR SILVIA@VIPTICKETPLACE.COM\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\

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1C • The Seminole Tribune • April 26, 2013From playpen to cattle pen: Youth compete in rodeoBY EILEEN SOLERStaff ReporterBIG CYPRESS — Dyami Nelson, 13,began rodeo sports only two years ago butcompetes like he was born in the saddle.During the March 22 Eastern IndianRodeo Association (EIRA) kids’ nonsanctionedrodeo at the 17th annual JuniorCypress Cattle Drive & Rodeo, Nelson, ofHollywood, held tight to the bull rope on theback of a massive bucking steer and tookfirst place in two steer riding events.Like an old hand, he then helped strapyounger riders into safety gear, settled roughstock in chutes and assisted adult organizerswith any need.Other youth rodeo competitorsincluded Jaylen Baker, who came in secondin the first steer riding; Dothan Osceola-Rodrriguez, who won first among 7-to-9-year-olds in pony riding; Jaylen Baker, whocame in first in ages 10-to-12 pony riding;and Andre Jumper, who took first in chutedogging.Blevins Jumper took first place in steerundecorating, and Andre Jumper won firstplace for breakaway roping. Barrel racefirst-place winners were: Diamond Osceolain the 4-to-8 age group; Budah Jumper forages 9-to-12; and Kalgary Johns for ages13-to-17.“It’s an adrenalin rush,” Nelson saidwhile wiping sweat and clay from his face.It’s also in the blood for most of the100 Tribal youth registered in the EIRAnon-sanctioned events program, said theprogram director Moses Jumper Jr.“Rodeo is a top traditional sport forthe Seminole. We were about horses andcattle for hundreds of years, long beforethe Indians of the plains and back when theSpaniards were here,” said Jumper, a fourthgenerationcattleman and cowboy whopassed the culture to his sons, grandchildrenand countless Tribal children.Most people are surprised to learn thatrodeo was the first money-making businessfor the Tribe, not pow-wows, Tribal fairs oralligator wrestling shows, Jumper said. Helikes to see kids as young as 2 begin to getcomfortable on the back of a horse.“They can start at 3 years old withsheep events and move up from there,”he said. “They can barrel race at 4 and bythe time they are 17, they can be in ropingevents and bull riding.”Loosely organized training is availableon Brighton and Big Cypress Reservations,Jumper said, provided by parents andgrandparents willing to pass down thelifestyle and sport. His grandchildren,nieces, nephews and their friends arewelcome to practice on his Big Cypressranch any day, any time.Dyami Nelson rides a 1,000-pound junior bull on March 22 during the Eastern Indian Rodeo Association kids’ non-sanctioned rodeo event at the Junior Cypress Rodeo Arena in Big Cypress.Most Hollywood Reservation youthtrain during scheduled times up to fivedays a week at Linda Sluder’s Spun GoldEquestrian Center in Davie.“They have to practice like any teamsport but they also learn horsemanship, howto care for the animal, how to compete andhow to win,” Sluder said.Jo “Boogie” Jumper, a rodeo pro whoserves as secretary for the EIRA, saidtraining is a must and competing at the nonsanctionedevents is “huge” – especiallythis year.“We use the kids’ events as feeders tothe adult rodeo,” she said. “We’ve alreadywitnessed how that happens with peoplelike (rodeo pros) Jacoby Johns and JustinGopher. Both came up from the Seminoleprograms.”Adam Turtle, a former director whosechildren are now in the youth program, saidhe made it as an adult competitor to theIndian National Finals Rodeo (INFR) finals10 times.“But this is where it starts,” Turtlesaid, watching the barrel races at the JuniorCypress Rodeo Arena. “Kids need to comeout and have fun. It builds pride for who theyare and heart for what they can achieve.”For the first time, Seminole childrenEileen Solerwill have a chance to participate at the INFRchampionship in Las Vegas in November2013.But first, youth competitors mustcompete for spots on INFR tours. The top10 from the tours will then go on to theINFR championship.See more RODEO photos on page 4CSports spotlight:Maleah IsaacEmma JohnsBaseball and softball players pose with their families. On March 21, Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School held a special event to honor the eighthgradersand their parents.PECS holds parent nightBY EMMA JOHNSFreelance WriterBRIGHTON — As the PemayetvEmahakv Charter School baseball andsoftball seasons come to an end so does themiddle school career for the eighth-gradeathletes.On March 21, PECS held a specialevent to honor the eighth-graders andtheir parents. Eight softball players andthree baseball players were proudlyescorted across the infield by their parentsas they were showered with words ofencouragement from coaches.The event gave the coaches anopportunity to thank players and parents fortheir commitment to their team and school.It also gave them a chance to say goodbyeand good luck as the students prepare toleave PECS and enter high school.“I like to honor the body of work thatthese student athletes have put in for us,”athletic director Darryl Allen said, addingthat many have participated in the programsince elementary school. “I think we’vegiven them some strong tools to work with.”Those tools combined with the supportof their parents and teachers offers greaterchances of success in the students’ futures,Allen said. Through the athletic programat PECS, Allen said they emphasizeeverything from academics to how studentsshould present themselves.“We don’t have sports teams,” he said.“We have sports programs.”The students look forward to what liesahead.Pitcher Diamond Shore shared herplans on attending Moore Haven HighSchool next year and has set a goal to spendher high school years working toward beinga good student and earning an athleticscholarship.Shae Pierce looks forward to playingsports in high school and hopes to earnher way into the University of Minnesotaor Baylor University on an athleticscholarship, while Trevor Thomas looksforward to attending ninth grade at theOkeechobee Freshman Campus and tocontinuing playing sports. Through hisacademics and athletic potential he hopes toattend the University of Florida.Although the students aspire to playfor top colleges as athletes, they eachunderstand and respect the fact that theiracademics are also a large part of earningan athletic scholarship.During the event, students creditedtheir school, coaches and parents for theirsupport and encouragement to become theathletes and students they are today.Best of luck to the eighth-grade LadySeminoles: #4 Sydnee Cypress, #5 ShaePierce, #11 Deliah Carrillo, #15 MartinaHerrera, #2 Raylon Eagle, #14 AlexusJames, #13 Diamond Shore, #9 CourtneyGore.Best of luck to the eighth-gradebaseball players: #2 Trevor Thomas, #23Drayton Billie, #11 Demetrius Clark.See more PECS photos on page 5CBY EILEEN SOLERStaff ReporterCHOCTAW, Miss. — Some girls justwanna have fun, as the song says. MaleahIsaac, 18, finds the most fun playingbasketball.“I have to play basketball. I get toknow people, I make friends and I love thecompetition,” Isaac said.The senior, in her first year at ChoctawCentral High School in Choctaw, Miss.,will graduate this spring having put herlove of the game to the test.She moved to Choctawto play with a morecompetitive, seasonedteam, and the strappingforward helped bring theChoctaw Lady Warriors toa district championship winin February and then to thestate regional semifinals.Originally from Brighton,she moved to Hollywoodand played for HollywoodChristian School for threeyears.Isaac has always beenathletic, said her mother,Gwen Spiva. She startedplaying sports at the Tribe’sEileen SolerMaleah Isaac is hopefulabout her hoop dreams.Recreation Departmentin Hollywood before firstgrade.“Even at age 5 shewas out there playing softball,” Spiva said.“When all the other kids would stand therein the field being cute, Maleah was in theoutfield running after every ball, grabbingthe ball up and throwing it in.”Isaac got hooked on basketball atage 8. At Hollywood Christian, she addedvolleyball to her list of favorite sports. Thisyear, Isaac diversified further when shejoined Choctaw’s track team.College is next.“I don’t really worry about where I willgo to college. I just want to play basketballthere,” she said.But while basketball is a must-do,the A-B honor student knows that collegehoop dreams won’t come true withoutshooting for a good education. Inspiredby her mother’s past career as a teacher atthe Tribe’s Preschool in Hollywood, Isaacplans to double major in business and earlychildhood development.Recent weeks have been spent tryingout for junior college teams in Mississippi.Spiva said Isaac will be a walk-on, asSpiva was decades ago when she playedbasketball for Meridian CommunityCollege, also in Mississippi.After graduation, Isaac hopes tobuild and manage a Tribal preschool inMississippi.“I love to be around kids,”she said. “It’s what everyonesays I am good at – I’m aboutmaking children smile.”She was a frequentvolunteer for the HollywoodBoys & Girls Club, and Spivasaid children gravitate to herdaughter.“She’d always have kidsgathered around her. Shewants to help out and makeeveryone happy,” Spiva said.But Isaac did not realizethe importance of her giftuntil after she endured middleschool – then turned thebullies into her friends simplyby being herself. In Isaac’sworld, whether volunteering inthe community or entertainingher many cousins, no childis mistreated or left out andeveryone gets a chance to shine, whetherthey are first-time athletes or stars of theteam.Giving herself to others is important.She once envisioned becoming aSeminole Police Officer, so she spent asummer volunteering with the department.Last year, as a junior at HollywoodChristian, Isaac was one of 60 studentspicked from hundreds nationwide to travelwith the faith-based People to PeopleAmbassador Program to Australia whereshe helped minister to aboriginal Tribes –and went scuba diving in the Great BarrierReef.“I love being active. I won’t sit still,”she said. “Basically, my love for sports andchildren is where my life will take me.”

2C• The Seminole Tribune • April 26, 2013Students keep active on the rez during spring breakEileen SolerChildren on spring break in Big Cypress, and adults, take an airboatride in the Everglades at Billie Swamp Safari.Eileen SolerAn ostrich makes new friends during a swamp buggy visit from children on spring breakat the Big Cypress Reservation’s Billie Swamp Safari.Beverly BidneyHollywood kids on spring break warm up with a run on the field; Morningstar Osceolaleads the group.Beverly BidneyCareful technique combined with speed is necessary for DiamondOsceola to successfully complete the obstacle course on theHollywood Ball Field.Beverly BidneyTeams of campers in Brighton execute the ‘big trick’ as Okeechobee Xplosion All-Starsstaff spots the kids as part of the Cheer and Tumble Camp held March 25-27 in the gym.Eileen SolerSpring break campers on the Big Cypress Reservation line up withfishing poles and hope for a catch.Beverly BidneyTiyanni Anderson, center, learns how to cheer during Brighton’s Cheer and Tumble Camp.Beverly BidneyThe races are close for the spring break campers in Hollywood; Carmello Cooper, Tony Billie Jr., Elijah Osceola, DiamondOsceola and Charles Osceola vie for first place.Kids at the Cheer and Tumble Camp in Brighton practice their moves as their campmates wait their turns.Beverly Bidney

3C • The Seminole Tribune • April 26, 2013Tribalwide T-ball tournament brings youth togetherHollywood player Sylas Billie hits a ball off the tee.Beverly BidneyBeverly BidneyThe Brighton team warms up before the T-ball World Series in BigCypress on April 13.Beverly BidneyBrighton tries to make an out at first base, but Hollywood playerJustin Rodriguez is about to beat him to it.Beverly BidneyA Brighton player wearing a pink helmet threads the needle andruns right through the Hollywood players to third base.A Hollywood player is about to tag a Brighton player out at third base.Beverly BidneyBeverly BidneyHollywood infielders Malakai Vazquez, left, and Sylas Billie areready for action.Hoopster breaks for tee timeBY EILEEN SOLERStaff ReporterBIG CYPRESS — From the courtto the diamond to the fairway, QuentonCypress, 17, represents the unrelentingspirit of the Ahfachkee Warriors.On March 22, the high school basketballand baseball player led schoolmates TroyCantu and Caitlin Cypress to a secondplacefinish in the Rick CaseAutomotive 2nd annual HighSchool Golf Challenge.Cypress played two partsin the four-player scrambleagainst one boys’ and onegirls’ team, both fromCypress Bay High School.Cypress’ three years ofconsistent golfing experiencecame in handy when it cameto adding double to hisswing, he said.“It was a four-manscramble but three showedEileen SolerQuenton Cypress.up. I hit twice all the wayaround, so I actually playedtwice,” Cypress said. “Ithelped that I golf year-round. It keeps myswing smooth.”Coached by Amos Mazzant, golfcoordinator on the Big Cypress Reservation,the team scored 36 in the front nine and 39on the back nine. Because the event wasnot sanctioned by the Florida High SchoolAthletic Association, no winners or loserswere announced or recorded.“Basically, it was a friendly challengebetween high school players. It madefor a more relaxed and enjoyable dayto acknowledge teen golfers,” saidorganizer Stan Bostic, national directorof communications and VIP programs atRick Case Automotive. “Kids are alwaysgetting attention for football, baseball andbasketball, but we don’t hear enough aboutthe golfers.”Bostic said it makes sense to bring highschool students out to the greens.Thirty adult teams also played at thesame time and place in the 9th annualRick Case Golf Classic held to benefitThe Prestige Club. Based inBroward, the club founded bypresident Polly Wilkie in 1996,donates time and money toorganizations that help familiesand children in need.During the inauguralschool challenge last year,Ahfachkee scored the highestamong several teen foursomes.In keeping with the nonrankingnature of the teenevent, all participation prizesand trophies were the same. Atthe end of the day, however,the names of all participatingschools are put into a hat for ascholarship drawing. Last year,Ahfachkee plucked a $1,000 scholarship.This year, the school came away with $500.“The money goes to the athleticdirectors of the schools for distribution toa high school senior golfer with a GPA of3.2 or higher...eventually we’d like to see 10to 15 schools playing the challenge,” Bosticsaid.Cypress said he would meet the golfchallenge again, as he does with othersports.“For me, it’s about doing my bestwhether I’m skating, golfing, playingbasketball or shooting pool,” he said.Emma JohnsShae Pierce competes in the softball throwduring Track and Field Day.Pemayetv Emahakv Charter Schoolholds Hershey Track and Field DayBY EMMA JOHNSFreelance WriterBRIGHTON — On March 1,Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School heldthe annual Hershey Track and Field Day.To prepare for the track and fieldevents, physical education teachers atPECS spent several weeks preparingstudents by focusing the P.E. hour aroundEmma JohnsThe girls’ 200-meter runners round the final corner and head for the finish line during the PemayetvEmahakv Charter School’s Hershey Track and Field Day on March 1.the events that would take place at thetrack meet. Students practiced each eventand received tips on how to improve theirskills and technique in running, jumpingand throwing.The Brighton Ball Field was filled withparents, family and community memberswho came to root for the athletes.On the day of the competition,students participated in the 50-meter dash,100-meter dash, 200-meter run, 800-meterrun, 1,600-meter run, standing long jump,softball throw and four-person relay race.The top two winners in each categoryadvance to the District Hershey Track andField Meet in Okeechobee.At the district meet, students have theopportunity to qualify for the state Hersheyevent held during the summer.VEHICLES FOR SALELAST SIXOF VIN# YEAR MAKE MODEL MILEAGE CONDITIONSTARTING BIDPRICE120030 1998 CHEVROLET SILVERADO 1500 (4WD) 199,716 POOR $1,200.74271844 1998 CHEVROLET SILVERADO 1500 (4WD) 249,631 POOR $1,451.25341602 2000 CHEVROLET SILVERADO 1500 (2WD) 172,531 POOR $2,192.50151279 2006 CHEVROLET TAHOE (2WD) 173,686 POOR $1,477.58B16843 2007 FORD ESCAPE (HYBRID) 215,797 GOOD $3,470.50A82937 2007 FORD ESCAPE (HYBRID) 271,135 FAIR $2,264.25141983 2006 CHEVROLET SILVERADO 2500 (4WD) 239,050 FAIR $7,947.00177444 2006 FORD TAURUS SE 157,173 GOOD $2,060.25A77810 2007 FORD F150 (4WD) 136,368 POOR $4,391.05228065 2001 DODGE RAM 2500 (4WD) DIESEL 246,527 POOR $3,800.00Note - Previously advertised vehicles are not reflected on this advertisement, only newly received vehicles. 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4C• The Seminole Tribune • April 26, 2013f More RODEO photos from page 1CEileen SolerBlevins Jumper performs in the chute dogging contest March 22during the Eastern Indian Rodeo Association kids’ non-sanctionedrodeo event at the Junior Cypress Cattle Drive & Rodeo.Eileen SolerQuayton Billie gets plenty of coaching right out of the gate during the mutton busting contest.Mutton busting is like riding a bike for Bryce Baker.Eileen SolerEileen SolerAJ Tigertail holds a calf in the chute before competing in the chutedogging contest.Eileen SolerHannah Platt can’t reach to put her feet in the stirrups, but she does just fine in the4-to-8 age division for barrel racing.Eileen SolerLason Baker approaches the second barrel during the Junior Cypress Memorial Rodeo.REMEMBERELECTIONDAYMAY 13th, 2013HARLEM SHAKEHITS THE REZ!VIDEO CONTESTTHE SEMINOLE CHANNEL WANTSYOUR BEST HARLEM SHAKE VIDEO!THE BEST VIDEOS WILL BE BROADCAST ON SCTV!VIDEOS MUST INCLUDEAND BE SUBMITTED BYA TRIBAL MEMBERREPRESENT YOUR CLAN OR RESERVATIONTHE BEST VIDEO WILLRECEIVE A PRIZE!VIDEOS MAY BE SUBMITTEDBY EMAIL OR SENT ONA FLASH DRIVEFOR MORE INFO OR ASSISTANCE WITHMAKING YOUR VIDEO CALL:954.985.5701 ext. 10772

5C • The Seminole Tribune • April 26, 2013Youth compete in pool tournamentPhoto courtesy of Jo ‘Boogie’ JumperThe Florida Seminole 12 & under Lady Seminoles Volleyball Team celebrate their winning season.Brighton travel teamscomplete volleyball seasonSUBMITTED BY JO JUMPER & DALLAS NUNEZVolleyball CoachesORLANDO — The Florida Seminole12 & under Lady Seminoles TravelingVolleyball Team ended their season at theDisney Classic Volleyball Tournament inOrlando held at the ESPN World Wide ofSports Complex April 6-7.The girls were in a pool of five teamsand played four games on April 6. TheLady Seminoles won two matches and losttwo matches, which qualified them to theSilver Division. First, they played Big LakeJuniors, of Okeechobee, on April 7 and wonthe match 2-1 (24-26, 25-19, 15-7), puttingthe team into the Championship Game forSilver.The competition was fierce but theywon the Championship Game against theKPVA Elites in three games (17-25, 27-25,15-3).We are very proud of these girls; it wasthe last tournament but it took all season forthem to come together as a team. We teachthese girls that there is no “I” in team andthat in order to be successful at this game,they have to play together as a team andhave each other’s back. Once they realizedthis, it was amazing and an honor to witnessit all come together.Although a young set of girls, theymatured over the course of the season.We have such great talent here on thereservations that we hope girls will startstepping out and taking advantage of thegreat opportunities that are offered.The 12 & under traveling players,coached by Jo “Boogie” Jumper, includethe following: Burgundy Pierce, JuliaSmith, Alicia Fudge, Caroline Sweat,Alaina Sweat, Jacee Jumper, Krysta Burton,Ryanna Osceola, Jenna Brown and AlyssaGonzalez.Brighton Recreation’s 10 & underVolleyball Club came to an end with theDisney Classic held in Orlando from April6-7 at the ESPN Wide World of SportsComplex. The girls competed against someof the best teams from throughout Florida.The 10 & under team managed to wintheir only set of the day against UPONTOPCheetah’s, of Port St. Lucie, but lost thematch 2-1 (25-13, 23-25, 15-5).After that match, they went into theirsecond against a strong OVA Asics teamfrom Orlando and lost 2-0 (25-17, 25-20).Their last match of the day was against localrivals Big Lake Juniors, of Okeechobee,who won 2-0 (25-18, 25-17).With only seven teams entered in the 10& under tournament, all teams were enteredinto the single-elimination Gold Divisionon April 7.The Seminoles seeded fourth in poolplay No. 1, which meant they would playthe first seeded team, Tampa Warriors, frompool play No. 2. Despite feeling defeated,the girls put it aside and won their firstmatch 2-1 (26-24, 20-25, 15-13).After this win they again came acrossUPONTOP. With chants of Cheetahscoming from the stands, the determinedSeminoles played through nerves andtears, and battled to win 2-1 (21-25, 25-19,15-13). With adrenaline still flowing, theyoung Seminoles didn’t realize they wouldplay in the Championship Game againstOVA Asics. Despite their best effort, OVAAsics won 2-0 (25-12, 27-25), ending theSeminole’s impressive season in secondplace.The team consisted of: Aubee Billie,Naleah Billie, Makya King, Taryn Osceola,Karlyne Urbina, Mariah Billie, MorganYates, Melina Steve and coach DallasNunez. Other team members who couldn’tmake the trip included: Preslynn Baker,Amber Kawayla, Alice Osceola, TammyMartinez and coach Brittney Macias.For more information, call 863-763-5020 ext. 15205.Beverly BidneyDonovan Harris, 11, of Brighton, takes a shot as Leviticus Buster, 9, of Big Cypress, looks on duringthe Youth Billiards Tournament in Big Cypress on April 13.Beverly BidneyDakoya Nunez, 9, of Brighton, takes aim.f More PECS photos from page 1CBeverly BidneyCisco Rodriguez, 13, of Hollywood, competes inthe billiards tournament.Beverly BidneyHunter Strickland, 13, of Brighton, shoots pool during the Youth Billiards Tournament.Emma JohnsAthletic director Darryl Allen gives Martina Herrera one lastappreciation hand shake during Pemayetv Emahakv CharterSchool’s eighth-grade parent night on March 21.Photo courtesy of Dallas NunezThe 10 & under Volleyball Club complete their season with a second-place finish.Emma JohnsDelilah Carrillo says farewell to athletic director Darryl Allenduring the event.Emma JohnsBaseball player Trevor Thomas shakes athletic director Darryl Allen’s hand ashe prepares to finish up the season.WWW.CASTILLOLAWOFFICES.COMTHE POLICEKNOW YOUR RIGHTSDO YOU?Call Me For A FREE ConsultationRICHARD CASTILLO954.522.3500Since 1990 I have protected rights like yours.My office defends dui’s, drug offenses,suspended license, domestic violence, andall felonies and misdemeanors.24 HOURS A DAYThe hiring of an attorney is an important decision that should notbe based solely upon advertisement Castillo worked as a PublicDefender in Broward County from 1990-1996 and has been inprivate practice for nine years. In 1995 he was voted the TrialAttorney of the year. He graduated from Capital University in1989 and was admitted to the Florida Bar in 1990, Federal Bar in1992, and the Federal Trial Bar in 1994.STANDOUT..COM[DESIGN SERVICES]

6C • The Seminole Tribune • April 26, 2013HAVE YOU SEEN THESESCTV HOSTS?Everett OsceolaSeminoleAmy StrettenChickahominyWatch the Seminole Channelonly on Directv (9545)TUESDAY 8:00 - 9:00PMTHURSDAY 5:00 - 6:00PMCan’t watch at these times?Set your DVR to channel 9545 to catch them anytime!YOU DON’T HAVE DIRECTV? WHY NOT?!The Seminole Tribe provides the DIRECTV Choice Xtra package with 205 channelsand the exclusive SEMINOLE CHANNEL at no charge to Tribal Members in Florida.Just callExclusively onfor the Seminole DIRECTV Department at:(954) 985-5703