Inside - Seminole Tribe of Florida

The Seminole Tribune 4 April 7, 2006Alice Snow Teaches Doll MakingBy Susan EtxebarriaBRIGHTON — Alice Snowhosted a Seminole doll making class ather Brighton home on March 13.Among the women present wereAgnes Bert, Rosie Billie, Jenny JohnsGarcia and Alice Sweat.The women were making palmettodolls to remember their traditions,and just for the fun of it. Garciarecalled the days when it wasn’t justfor fun.“When we were kids we satcross legged around a tarp makingdolls to sell, not for play,” said Garcia.For many hours they helpedtheir mothers create these popularitems to sell. It was a lot of work. Itstill is. Sweat also recalled having towork as a child not having the advantageschildren have today.“There were no movies, noonce a week trip into town, nocandy,” she said.Susan EtxebarriaAlice Snow cuts the dried palmetto fiber she previously prepared.Snow seemed to know that it’s more fun tomake dolls in groups just as it was done years ago.Almost all the women present had made palmettodolls but it was long ago and theyhad forgotten some of the techniques.Snow has special savvyabout doll making.It is a craft of originality;not all doll makers create the samedesign or use the same materials.Snow is an elder, a member of theBird clan. She learned to makedolls from her mother, EmmaMicco.The craft of doll makinghas been a popular activity sincethe early 1900s after it becameextremely difficult for Seminolesto make a decent living.Traditional income-producingoccupations such as trapping andhunting were outlawed and afterthe Florida swamps were drainedto provide land for acceleratingdevelopment wild game becamescarce.Many Seminoles turned totourism for an income. Today theenormous success of the SeminoleTribe in the tourism and hospitalityindustry is directly linked to theseJenny Garcia sews the palmetto fiber together assembling the neck.Susan EtxebarriaLittle doll heads made out of palmetto fiber are assembled.resourceful Tribal members wholearned how to take advantage ofa changing situation. In her ownmodest way Alice Snow’s motherwas one of these early entrepreneurs who producedcrafts for the tourist trade.There were many Florida tourists and collectorsof handcrafted Indian art who would buy thedolls. The importance of the dolls is theirimmense historical value. Each doll is madeto accurately portray the clothing and hairstyleworn by traditional Seminole men andwomen over the decades. Today the dollscontinue to be one of the favorite items atpow-wow events, Tribal festivals andTribally-owned gift shops.The price tag on a Seminole palmettodoll may have gone up over thedecades but the labor involved still outweighsthe earnings. To make a doll,depending on its size, can take up to 10hours of labor, or more. Today, making thedolls is a labor of love rather than one ofnecessity.A week before the doll makingclass, Sweat had asked some of the men onstaff at the Community Care for the Elderly(CCE) to go out into the woods and cutdown the trunk or the boot of a palmettotree and bring it back to Snow’s house todry out. The boot provides the material tomake the doll’s head and torso.On Snow’s back porch piles of palmettofiber were spread out on the floor asthe women gathered around. Snow used palmettofiber instead of cotton for the stuffingas some doll makers do; wrapped a piece ofpalmetto fiber around the stuffing to makethe head, and then tied it off with the stringalso made from palmetto fiber leaving a littlemantle of palmetto fiber where the bodycan be attached.In less than two hours the womenmade 36 doll heads which Snow threadedtogether on one long string of red thread.Snow explained how she will make manydolls in a type of assembly line process.First she makes the heads, thenstrings them all together on one single longred thread creating little red mouths on eachface as she proceeds. The next step is tostring the doll heads again with a long blackthread to make the pupils of the eyes. Thenshe strings a white thread to make thewhites of the eyes.Sometimes the same process isused to make eyebrows. After the faceshave been finished, she cuts off the threadsthat connect the string of doll heads.Next, the heads are individuallyattached to the cone-shaped bodies that are also madefrom the palmetto fibers. Once the heads and bodiesSusan EtxebarriaAgnes Bert and Alice Sweat made 36 doll heads in less than 2 hours.are made, the distinctive clothing is designed. Thedress is made of cotton and broadcloth. Snow usesrick-rack, and glass beads for decoration. Hair is madefrom a black silkfringe.Unlike thepast days the womenare not in a hurry tofinish the dolls. Theycan enjoy the experienceand will returnanother day for thenext doll making classwith Alice Snow whosaid she will continueto work with the ladiesin completing the projectof doll making inthe coming weeks.She invitesany Seminole womanwho wishes to learnthis traditional craft tojoin her in her dollmaking classes. IfTribal citizens wish tojoin her they can callBrighton CCE at (863)763-3561 to find outwhen the next classwill take place.Susan EtxebarriaSeminole Citizen Opens Home Décor BusinessCowboys and Indians Trading Company Celebrates Grand OpeningBy Emma BrownBRIGHTON —Kay Braswell of theBrighton reservation isproud to announce theopening of her new storeCowboys and IndiansTrading Company. Kay isthe daughter of Stanlo andJonnie Johns also of theBrighton reservation.Kay, and her partnerJoys Surls ofOkeechobee, Fla., have putmany hours into creating astore with western flair thatcaters to those who enjoy asophisticated country style.Kay’s new store featuresbeautiful country style furniture,western homedécor, western attire andbelts, bling bling jewelry,saddle pads, and muchmore.The store is locatedin Okeechobee, Fla. onHwy 441 north next to Glades Gas and celebrated itsgrand opening on Friday March 10.They are open Monday-Friday from 9:30a.m.– 6 p.m. If you are ever in Okeechobee, stop byEmma BrownKay Braswell standing in front of one of her creations at the grand opening.Cowboys and Indians Trading Company and showyour support for a fellow Tribal citizen.Congratulations and Good luck to you Kay,may you have much success.

The Seminole Tribune 5 April 7, 2006Felix DoBoszClass 06-01 Firefighter graduates earn badge and certificate at swearing-in ceremonies at Tribal HQ.AwardsContinued from page 1Bird Clan, from Big Cypress reservation. In additionto Henry, the following is a list of the rest of the Class06-01 graduates: Benjamin Bauer, EMT, Daniel Conti,Firefighter/EMT, Christopher Diaz, Firefighter/EMT,Juan Carlos Gomez, Firefighter/EMT, StephenLuongo, Firefighter/EMT, Michael Marazzani,Felix DoBoszBoca Raton’s Lt. Norm Engel pins badge to BryanStepanenko, fulfilling his lifelong dream.Firefighter/EMT, Bryan Stepanenko, Firefighter/EMT,Javier Valdes, Firefighter/Paramedic.“…We have many fine young men here whohave chosen to perform the most satisfying andrewarding job that I know, and that’s being aFirefighter,” Negrin said.Negrin went on to thank the entire communityand each indivual council member of the SeminoleTribe of Florida for their continued support and cooperation.A five minute video showed the class doingvarious activities at the Fire Training Academy. It outlinedthe hard work and dedication the group put in totheir training.A heart-felt moment of the ceremony camewith new Firefighter Bryan Stepanenko’s story.Stepanenko was diagnosed with leukemia in 1989when he was just three years-old. Boca Raton Fire-Rescue Firefighter Norm Engel, a volunteer at thetime for the Make-a-Wish Foundation, arranged a VIPtrip to Disney World for young Bryan and his familyto enjoy.Amazingly for young Bryan the cancer wentinto remission, but Stepanenko never forgot his herowho inspired him and helped him fight the odds atsuch a critical time in his early life. He and Engelbonded through their Make-A-Wish experience,though throughout the years lost touch with eachother. However, Stepanenko never forgot the firefighterwho befriended him and inspired him to become afirefighter.A second video played showing a photo montageof Bryan Stepanenko growing up, while MariahCarey’s song “Hero” played in the background. Ittraced Stepanenko past, from getting the horrible newsof leukemia. However, the video also featured hopefulphotos and headlines of Stepanenko with his herogoing to Disney World with the Make-a-WishFoundation and surviving cancer.Finally, the video depicted photos ofStepanenko growing up through the years and playingsports in school. He was seen finally fulfilling hislifelong dream of attending the fire academy.Ironically, that evening they met again afterso many years. Boca Raton Fire-Rescue LieutenantNorm Engel presented the Seminole firefighter’sbadge to a 20 year old spirited young man who beatthe odds.Stepanenko was also chosen as the classleader by his academy instructors. He said he washonored and privileged by this. Upon seeing his oldfriend Norm Engel, the two hugged and smiled aseveryone in the auditorium applauded warmly andenjoyed this wonderfully emotional story.SPD Crime Prevention Tour Visits the RezBy Felix DoBoszHOLLYWOOD— A large whiteSeminole PoliceDepartment (SPD) trailerwas parked behind theHollywood HeadquartersBuilding stacked withpublic information materialsfor the community.On March 15, SPDexhibited safety programsthat will assist them inmaking useful and positivedecisions to protectTribal citizens, their familiesand their property.It’s estimatedthat 75–100 Tribal citizensstopped by to getinformation they can use,plus free small gifts werealso handed out alongwith an assortment ofpamphlets, home securitywith crime preventioninfo, and for the littleones, a Say No toStrangers coloring book.Sergeant AlSignore of the SPDCrime Prevention Unit said: “The crime preventionprogram started here with just myself, and now wehave two officers, and another joining our unit beginningnext month. We are here to teach people how notFelix DoBoszOfc. Ulysses Boldin shows remote car to Joel Frank Sr.to become victims of crime. We have different programsthat explain this to you, some of the programswe have coming up for pre-school kids are the ChildID system, Puppet shows that teach and entertain, therobot car, that’s fairly new, and we have this new trailerthat will be visiting all the reservations.“We are working on a lot of things; it justtakes time to develop all these new programs.SPD’s Crime Prevention Unit: (L-R) Sgt. Al Signore, Capt. GeraldMeisenhimer, Ofc. Susie Lawson, and Ofc. Ulysses BoldinFelix DoBoszBasically, if we could help one person today, I wouldsay, please if you have any kind of problem or troublewith anybody in your neighborhood, please let usknow, we will try and help you, please if you see anythingthat you think is a crime or is just not right ormight be suspicious, please don’t hesitate tocall your police department no matter whatreservation your on, and we’ll send somebodythere.“We are here in crime prevention toimprove our relationship with the community,to work along with the community, we have aprogram now called Neighborhood Watch andwe want the community to be protected andassist them with their crime prevention needs.”Officer Ulysses Boldin from theCrime Prevention Unit demonstrated SPD’snew “PC the Patrol Car” a three-foot-tall radiocontrolled replica of an SPD squad car. It wascomplete with red and blue lights on the topwith a siren and a remote speaker system tointeract with children of all ages. He used thisdevice to attract more visitors to the SPDexhibit while people drove by slowly throughthe parking lot in their cars.Crime Prevention Unit Officer SusieLawson said, “We are basically here today totalk to the community about all the programsconcerning crime prevention. We want to focuson programs especially for the kids, such asstranger awareness and how not to become avictim of a burglary or assault. We want toshow the community that we are out here for them,protecting and serving the Rez community.”Boldin added, “Basically, the tools we areusing here today will hopefully foster a better relationshipwith the community. We will be going out to theBrighton Rez next month to bring them the safetyawareness and show them how not to be a victim ofcrime.”

The Seminole Tribune 6 April 7, 2006Felix DoBoszThe second unveiling of sculptural groups entitled “Seminole Family” showing a family of four (man infront with rifle, son with bow and arrow, and wife with child) circa 1830 walking along a path. BronzeContinued from page 1of armor used to protect the throat. The device is carrieddown from the British and is similar to armorfrom the French and Indian Wars.The inspiration behind the figures creationcame from the father and son duo of Brad Cooley andBrad Cooley Jr., of Cooley Bronze Sculptures inLamont, Fla. The self-taught elder Cooley makes largebronze sculptures of animal wildlife and other figuresin Native American legend. In 1986, Cooley Jr. joinedhis father and has since helped to create 37 life-sizedand monumental figures found in parks, museums, andcorporations all across the U.S.Brad Cooley Sr. says Indian and Seminoletraditions have always been important to him.“We have Seminole history and heritage inour family,” Cooley Sr. said.Echoing his father’s remarks, Cooley Jr.added his thoughts.“We have worked all across the country, butwe prefer the southeast,” he said. “Our favorite subjectis the Florida Seminole Tribe.”The year-long process of making the figuresbegan with layering clay over a foundation armatureof wood and metal. More clay was applied and moldeduntil they were satisfied with their vision. Once theclay was complete to specific detail, they were preparedfor casting by master mold-maker, Carla Knightof Denver, Colo. The rubber molds of the figures werethen sent to the foundry, Bronze Services of Loveland,Colo.Wax was then poured into the molds to recreatea positive image. Ceramic molds were then castover the wax figures and heated to melt out the wax inpreparation forthe pouring ofmolten bronze ataround 2,000degreesFahrenheit.Once theceramic moldswere broke away,the bronze figureswere reassembled,cleaned, andfinished with coloring,called patina.The bronzethickness on eachfigure is approximatelythree-sixteenthsof aninch.In attendancefor thepresentation wasthe TribalPresident MosesFelix DoBoszVice Chairman of the Seminole Tribe of Florida Moses Osceola (far left), Brad CooleySr. (left), Florida State University President T.K. Wetherell, and Brad Cooley Jr. posewith one of the most recent cast creations.Osceola. He feltthe sculptureswere beautifuland inspire pridefor the Seminolepeople.“I thinkit gives us a good presence here for the public of theTribe,” Osceola said. “It’s a great depiction of representingus today.”Next year’s sculptures will depict theEuropean incursion period, followed in 2008 by thePaleo Man period, known as the oldest NativeAmericans on record the U.S.Palm Beach County’s EGGstravaganza ReturnsPresented by Seminole Okalee Indian Village, South FloridaParenting and Hoffman’s ChocolatesBy Iretta TigerHOLLYWOOD — It was such a special occasionthat special menus were printed for the event. Theplace was the Council Oak and the event was MaryTiger’s 89th birthday.On March 20 the Tiger’s, the Tommie’s, theKippenberger’s and the Osceola’s gathered to honor thisfeisty matron. Among the guests were tribal officialsBoard President Moses Osceola, Councilman Max B.Osceola, Jr. and Chairman Mitchell Cypress.Mary and her son James blow out the candle.Submitted by Sandy Betlach, South FloridaParentingTAMARAC, FL — It’s bigger, its better, andits back. It’s the Second Annual EGGstravaganza, presentedby Seminole Okalee Indian Village, SouthFlorida Parenting Magazine and Hoffman’sChocolates. Kids and families can enjoy a weekend offun, food and games at Palm Beach County’s biggestegg hunt and family festival.This year’s EGGstravaganza promises to providemore family-friendly food, more activities andmore space to play. EGGstravaganza will take placeApril 8–9 from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. at Yesteryear Villageon the South Florida Fairgrounds. Admission is $7 peradult and child. Children under 18 months are free. Allactivities are included with admission and parking isfree.This two day event will feature on-going egghunts, face painting, pony rides, bungee jumps, barnyardanimals, a mini car track, a giant slide, live entertainmentand of course plenty of games and crafts.Hoffman’s Chocolates will furnish the egg hunt andprizes. Photos with the Easter Bunny and familyfriendlyfood will be available for purchase.EGGstravaganza will take place at the SouthFlorida Fairground’s Yesteryear Village, a charmingreplica of an old-fashioned small town. Volunteers inperiod costumes will conduct village tours, play oldfashionedgames, make traditional pioneer crafts, andgive unique demonstrations. In addition, dozens ofexhibitors will distribute information and educationalmaterials, as well as display products and discuss servicesespecially for families.Part of the proceeds from EGGstravaganzawill benefit The Children’s Place (TCP) at Home Safe.The Children’s Place at Home Safe is a non-profitorganization that has been serving the abused and neglectedchildren of Palm Beach County for more than25 years.South Florida Parenting and Hoffman’sChocolates invite local entertainers, storytellers andactors to participate in the EGGstravaganza.Volunteers are needed for the egg hunt and other activities.To participate as an entertainer, exhibitor, sponsoror volunteer, contact Sandy Betlach at sfparenting.comor at (800) 244-8447.Mary Tiger Celebrates Birthday in StyleGift basket from Mitchell CypressIretta TigerOne special guest was Dancing Joe. It couldbe said that Dancing Joe is the unofficial Miami Heatmascot; he tap dances at Miami Heat home games.On this night he danced for Tiger and gave her a hugand a kiss afterwards. He also danced for Tiger’sguests.This party marks the last time Tiger “will goout” in public. So from now on we’ll have to bringthe party to her.Happy birthday grandma!Spring Break Pool Party in BrightonBy Susan EtxebarriaBRIGHTON — As the weather startedheating up in mid-March the students had funduring their spring break thanks the BrightonRecreation department. During the week offfrom school and homework there were lots ofpool parties at the Tribe’s Olympic size swimmingpool.Three spring break pool parties, startingat about 9 a.m. and lasting until about 3 p.m.,were organized for all the kids. At least 30 to 40kids showed up to swim and have a lot of funplaying games such as water basketball, watervolleyball and competing in relay races in thepool.“Everyday we had a crowd at thepool,” said Pool Supervisor Judy Jones.Jones said more and more kids arecoming to the pool and learning to swim.Susan EtxebbarriaWatching for the ball to drop are Delaney Osceola, TommyJackson Jr., Taylor Boyette, Dylan Chalfant, RichardSmith, and Jayce Smith. BoardContinued from page 1The Board is getting ready to expand its businessportfolio with a few big projects.In June 2006 the Board will open a conveniencestore on the Hollywood reservation. The locationof the store will be at the former World Ford property.The convenience store will also contain a car washand gas pumps. The store will also be equipped with agenerator in case of power loss. Positions are availableand applications are now being accepted.Big plans are being proposed for the Brightonreservation. The first project will be a Brighton Motelwhich is planned to be built on the “Industrial Park”which is south of the Cattle and Range Office. Themotel will provide 108 rooms, banquet and conferencerooms, a business center, restaurant and lounge andovernight parking and facilities for 18 wheelers, RVsand horse trailers. Groundbreaking for the hotel shouldbe within the next six to eight months.The next proposed project for Brighton is theBrighton Bay Resort.Brighton Bay will be a five star resort whichwill contain approximately 250–300rooms, a state-of-the-art RV park, asports complex, an 18-hole golfcourse, shopping complex, a kid’scenter, extended stay housing andmore. The project is 3,000 acreswhich will be on the south end of thereservation which used to contain aparcel once owned by a tribal citizen,the turtle farm, sugarcane fieldsand pastureland.Some may think ofBrighton as an odd place for a resortbut the group who provided studiesfor the Hard Rock conducted studiesfor Brighton Bay and the resultswere favorable.If approved the projectcould take up to five years to complete.A possibility for some ofthe land accrued for Brighton Baywould be for housing for Tribal citizens.The housing project wouldcontain townhomes for singles or couples, smallerhomes for new families, mid-sized homes for slightlylarger families and estates for bigger families.Lot sizes would differ with each area with theestates containing the largest lots at one-and-a-halfacres.Wilson then gave updates on the Land Useand Development Ordinance of 1992 and the cattleprogram. She has also set a tentative date for a shareholder’smeeting. The date is June 17 and it will be forHollywood shareholders.Wilson then made a special announcement.“Looking at the Tribe I see Tribal memberswho have been working for the Tribe for a long timeand they have not been recognized; a majority of themare women.” said Wilson. “To show our appreciationfor their contribution to the Tribe we’re sending fiveselected women to San Juan, Puerto Rico to attend aleadership conference.”The conference will be on March 27–28.Congratulations to those who were selected.If you have any questions or would like moreinformation about any of the above mentioned issuescontact Hollywood Board Representative GloriaWilson at (954) 967-5584.Rendition of proposed Brighton Bay Resort.Iretta Tiger

The Seminole Tribune 7 April 7, 2006 4-HContinued from page 1LeAnna Billie and Mark Arriaga.Many know that 4-H teachesyouth to be reliable, dependable andresponsible. If a child neglects the care andfeeding of their animals, they fail in theirobjectives. We often don’t think about allthe work that 4-H parents also have to takeon their shoulders to help their childrenSusan ExtebarriaStevie Brantley cares for her hog Sweetie.successfully raise a barnyard animal.Children need guidance and direction; theyalways need a second pair of helpinghands; especially if the child is bedriddenwith a cold or is gone one night to playbasketball or softball.“It was really challenging,” saidparent Connie Haught of Brighton. “I didn’trealize it would be so hard.”Susan ExtebarriaSkyler Burke gets ribbon presented by Jewel Buck for GrandSteer.Her eight-year-old daughter,Skyler Burke, was a big winner this year.What is amazing is that it is Skyler’s firstyear in 4-H. Her steer named Trixterplaced grand–the champion of champions;it weighed 695 pounds when Skyler got theblack Brangus calf from her uncle AmosTiger’s ranch. After months of care,Trixter’s ending weight was 1,190.Her steer was an exceptional animalthat even the judge, Brian Dreyden,said he would buy. The judge told the audienceduring the show that Trixter had a lotof muscle mass and was really filled out;a very “finished” steer.Skyler, smiling and confident,shined in the show ring as she led theobedient Trixter in front of the crowdand the judge. For her mom, 4-H was amatter of good parenting–and getting lotsof help.“She’s come a long, long way,”said Haught. “We were hard on her; wehad to stay on her to keep up with herchores and her assignments.”She said her boyfriend, ShawnMcCormack, worked with Skyler morethan she did, but there were other familymembers and friends who gave themassistance and advice when they neededit.“It took a group effort with usbecause we were new to 4-H,” she said.“I wasn’t in 4-H when I was a kid andwe didn’t know what to do.”Haught said she especiallywanted to thank Amos and Lanell Tiger,and Billie Tiger for helping Skyler.“Everyday after school, after myhomework, I had to lead Trixter aroundabout 30 minutes a day,” said Burke. “Ihad to feed him. We spent a lot of moneyon feed. I really love my steer. You can goright up to him and pet him.”President of the Seminole Tribe ofFlorida, Inc., Moses Osceola affirmed thatparents make a differencein theirchildren’s lives Atthe buyer’s dinner,before the sale onFriday evening, hetold the large gatheringof buyers andfamilies that 4-Hparents play animportant role in 4-H.“I want tothank the parentsfor all their participation,”Osceolasaid.Anotherset of parents,Brighton’s Prestonand Mona Baker,were often seenhelping and guidingtheir daughters,Kiylier and Jaryaca,at the swine pensall three days. TheBakers have eightSusan ExtebarriaLeAnna Billie in the show ring.children and the girls are the eldest. Kiylierwon grand reserve with her 244 poundswine named Tobbie; Jarayaca won juniorshowmanship with her 277 pound hognamed Porkchop. The parents were elatedfor their daughters who said they workedvery hard to tame their hogs, feed themand care for them.Brighton’s Jr. Princess StevieBrantley raised a hog she called Sweetie.Although she didn’t place she said shereally enjoyed 4-H. Her hog went from 48pounds when she got it to 203 pounds byshow time.“One of the things you worryabout is that your hog is not going to makethe weight,” she said. “You have to takecare of your animal tomake sure it stayshealthy.”Stevie said herhog almost died on competitionday, March 23. Ithad stuck its snout in abucket while she wasaway and someone passedby the pen and seeing thehog struggling to get itshead out rescued Sweetiebefore it suffocated. It’sthese kinds of unexpectedhappenings while raisingan animal that childrenexperience that make theproject exciting andsometimes difficult.Kalgary Johns’sparents, Jo Leigh“Boogie” and NahaJumper, also workedwith their eight year olddaughter who showed a steer for the firsttime. Kalgary placed first in the superheavy weight class and earned a blue ribbonfor her magnificent 1,420 pound animal,the largest steer.The small girl gently and ably ledthe large beast around the ring. Once again,parent involvement was the key to her success.Her grandfather, Norman Johns, aTribal cattleman, also helped guideKalgary on her 4-H project. Johns hadworked with his own kids when they werein 4-H and this year he assisted his granddaughter.“Her mother [Boogie] was in thesame boat 21 years ago,” said Johns.As a parent he has been involvedin 4-H with his own children 23 years agostarting with his son, Eric “Bubba” Johns,when he was only eight years old.Another first time member of 4-Hthis year is Brighton’s Katrina Bettelyoun.Her steer that she named Big Man weighed1,090 pounds and came from Connie andSonny Whidden’s pastures. The ninth-graderdidn’t win a prize but she said she reallyenjoyed being in 4-H.“I didn’t want to do 4-H at first,”Bettelyoun said. “Mom and dad said justtry it … and it’s alright!”Her parents are Louella andBobby Gates.Every child who qualified for theshow and sale deserves praise and admiration.Raising a winning hog or steer isn’talways possible due to unknown or unanticipatedchallenges. Not winning may be adisappointment for some; another lesson tobe learned. But every 4-H member is awinner in the book of life. Making yourbest effort is what counts more than theresults.The 4-H grounds were set up likea large compound for three days. Therewas a tent for the 15 small animals thatincluded rabbits, a sheep, a goat a hog,calves and two water buffalo. The swinepens were on one side of the enclosedshow pen and the steer stalls on the other.Mary Jo Micco serves up food at the 4-H Show & Sale.The buyer’s dinner was held under a longlarge open structure.Weighing the animals to makesure they met the required weight began onMarch 22. If the animal didn’t make theweight it was not allowed to enter the showand sale. There were quite a few swine thatdid not meet the requirement this year.Another test the youth had to passWednesday was being able to control theanimal in the show ring.The sifter who determined if thechild was qualified to show the animal wasGlades County Extension Agent ShelleyHumphries.“I am here to determine if the kidscan control their animal so it won’t disruptthe show and harm other exhibitors,” saidHumphries.She is very familiar with 4-H havingbeen a member herself for 10 years. Ittakes most of the day to test the children’sabilities in the ring.Both nights of the show and salewere cool, with much rain on March 23.“It makes the animals frisky,” saidBig Cypress’s 4-H Coordinator CandiMancil.She said the BC club swinenamed “Bodacious” was so heavy at awhopping 325 pounds because of theunusually cool weather from Novemberthrough February.“It encouraged the hogs to eatmore when the weather is cold,” she said.There are many volunteers whohelp 4-H put on the complex show andsale. Every year the Immokalee 4-H membersmanage the swine pens and make surethe swine enter and exit from the show ringin a methodical pattern. Brighton’sPrincess Jewel Buck gave out the ribbonsto the winners during the show; TribalExtension Agent Michael Bond served asan emcee for the show. Thanks go to AndyBowers who helped classify the steer andswine into the various weight categories.Sam Smedley and Joey Hayesdonated many hours of time to prepare thegrounds with their bobcat andfront end loader includinghauling in over 175 bags ofsawdust. The judge of theswine show was KennethArnold and the judge for thesteer show was BrianDreyden. The auctioneer wasBrian Trimble.Many others helpedand all are to be commendedfor making it such a greatevent. The 4-H YouthLivestock Show and Sale wasunder the management of 4-HCoordinator Polly HayesOsceola and her assistants,Dionne Smedley and CandiMancil.In Florida, 4-H ispart of the FloridaCooperative ExtensionService based at the landgrantuniversities andreceives support from thecombined county, state and federal governments.The 4-H organization is managedby professional staff and is supported bythe university research base to meet theneeds of local Florida citizens.Susan Extebarria

The Seminole Tribune 8 April 7, 2006

The Seminole Tribune 9 April 7, 2006Felix DoBosz(L-R) President Moses Osceola, Chairman Mitchell Cypress, Brighton Council Representative AndrewBowers, NFL All-Pro Jason Taylor, Tampa Liaison Richard Henry, Ft. Pierce Liaison Sally Tommie.Seminole ‘Hit the Books’ with Jason TaylorBy Felix DoBoszHOLLYWOOD — On a beautiful March 27afternoon, under the old Council Oak Tree, theSeminole Tribe of Florida in conjunction with MiamiDolphins all-pro defensive end, Jason Taylor spoke toFelix DoBoszMiami Dolphins # 99 Jason Taylor happy to sign autographs for fans.more than a hundred students bused in from the BigCypress Ahfachkee School.Taylor is the president of the foundation thatbears his name. He said he is a huge supporter of familyvalues and pursuing educational goals for youth.Chairman Mitchell Cypress supports this view, togetherthey made a united effort to motivate and encourageTribal youth to “Hit the Books.”According to Jason Taylor’s FoundationSpokesperson Seth Levit this programis an educational campaigndesigned by Chairman MitchellCypress to further promote theimportance of education. The maingoal and objective of this programis to motivate Tribal youth to continuetheir education through highschool and beyond.The “Hit the Books” tourwith Chairman Cypress and JasonTaylor will consist of pep rallygatherings with students and theirparents at Tribal reservations thatfocus on the importance of education.The program aims to signupTribal students to participate in“Hit the Books” campaign.Each participant of theprogram will be monitored by theTribe’s Education department.Student’s that sign up will receivespecial recognition from theChairman’s Office and JasonTaylor as they reach certain educationalbenchmarks while enrolledin school.Ft. Pierce Liaison Sally R. Tommie was thehost speaker at the event under the shade of the OldCouncil Oak Tree.Preschool Rewarded by Local March of DimesBy Emma BrownBRIGHTON —The Okeechobee March ofDimes and the SeminoleHealth department hosted areward day for the BrightonPreschool students for raising$1,800. The money wasraised to support March ofDimes and the March ofDimes Walk of Americacoming up in Okeechobeeon March 18.Each preschoolstudent was given a piggybank to keep at home forone week so that parents,friends and they could droploose change into it. Afterone week each bank wasreturned and the money wasturned over to the March ofDimes.In one week thekids raised the $1,800,which made a huge impressionin the hearts of theMarch of Dimes staffers and preschoolers at the bubble station.March of Dimes staff. As areward, the March ofDimes staff brought a mini wonder walk to the kids.Since the children are too young to actuallyphysically walk a long distance, mini fun stationswere set up for them to walk between. There was adance station, a hula hoop station, and a bubble stationfor the kids to enjoy. The kids really enjoyed their dayand deserved it for the special heartfelt deed that theyhad done to help boys and girls their own age.The Seminole Tribe is a big supporter ofMarch of Dimes and has groups that participate in thewalks each year. Contact your local Health departmentfor more information.Emma BrownEmma BrownConner Thomas gets the hula hoop moving.Emma BrownThe hula hoop station was a hit with Sadie Rico.Emma BrownHand in hand kids got down at the dance station.Seminole preschool students raised over $1,800 in their piggy banks for the March of Dimes.File PhotoTribal citizen Summer Leigh Tiger attendsUniversity of Miami, majoring in psychology,and hopes to attend Law School.Emma BrownA University of MiamiStudent’s DreamBy Linda Iley, Higher Education AdvisorBeing in University of Miami (UM) is achievementenough. And for Summer Leigh Tiger, a senior student,she is looking forward and working towards agreater achievement.She intends to graduate with a degree in psychology,with a minor in chemistry and biology by end ofsummer 2006 term. Originally, she was planning to be adoctor. However, she is now finding that the law professionis more challenging. By the fall term of next year,she will be in law school.Summer is someone who works well under pressureso she would love the challenge and pressure thatthe legal environment offers. She puts a high expectationon herself, but she respects others who have their ownpace and their own choices. In school, she is doing verywell as an above-average student, considering the factthat she was out of school for two years.She laughs about going back to school and findingout that her classmates are much younger. She gainedinsight after her hiatus by realizing that education andexperiencing life together puts her in a stronger and betterperspective.For her, school is important and she is gratefulto the Tribe for the education program that is helping herachieve her dream. She hopes that she will one day beworking for the Tribe in the Legal department. KnowingSummer, she would make that dream come true!

The Seminole Tribune 10 April 7, 2006VIP Ahfachkee High SchoolersTour Seminole Hard RockBy Felix DoBoszHOLLYWOOD — Four seniorhigh school students and teacher ValerieWhiteside, arrived by bus from the BigCypress reservation the morning of MarchFelix DoBoszStudents get ready for a happy lunch at the Blue Plate.9 for a VIP tour of the Seminole HardRock Hotel & Casino.These students, Jonathan Harjo,JoJo Osceola, Jessalyn Balentine and RaulAlvarez Jr.; from the Ahfachkee HighSchool, were on a fact finding mission todiscover all the career opportunities theSeminole Tribe provides for its citizens inthe casino and hotel industry. This was thefirst time a tour to watch the daily operationsof the Casino and the Seminole HardRock Live has been conducted for thesestudents.A continental breakfast was providedfor the hungry students when theyfirst arrived by their host General Managerof Gaming Operations Larry Frank. Someof the objectives of this program are toprovide a well-rounded view of casino andhospitality operations in a real world settingwith a goal of developing the necessarytechnical, interpersonal and managerialskills.Director of Tribal CareerDevelopment Programs Betty JonesGoosens lectured the students about thetremendous opportunities the Tribe hasimplemented for its young citizens. Sheoutlined the various programs available forall the students and how to take advantageof the many career opportunities the Tribeprovides.“It is the goal of the Tribe to trainTribal members about our hotel and casinooperations so that they become qualified toassume middle management and executivepositions for the future,” Goosens said.“The three year programallows an individual to workin all the departments ofboth casino and hotel operations.Interns work in everyposition from the entry-levelto the director’s position ineach department.“After the first twoyears, they return to eacharea and focus more onworking with the managersand directors to determinewhich area they want tospecialize in. When theycomplete the program, theyare placed in the departmentthey selected to practiceexclusively in.”Three interns discussedtheir general experiencesin the career program.They also talked tothe students about theirexpectations and goals forbeing in the program and answered all theirquestions and concerns.After breakfast the students weretaken to the food & beverage area, wherethey met with Director of CulinaryOperations Bob Strom and Pastry ChefMichelle Bass. They explained to the tourgroup all the effort required for excellentfood preparation and presentation.The students were privileged tosee the results of these exquisite culinaryefforts, namely pastries that are prepareddaily for hundreds of guests and visitors toenjoy. The multitudes of colorful and deliciouslooking desserts were placed on longfood trays in neat rows and then stacked onwheeled metal racks ready to be moved totheir final destination, consumption.Felix DoBoszStudent tour group stops by bakery and food preparation area with pastry chefs.Senior High students from Ahfachkee in BC (L- R) Jonathan Harjo, JoJo Osceola, Jessalyn Balentine, Raul Alvarez Jr.The group thenwas given an exclusivetour of the entire SeminoleHard Rock Live. Theywere guided backstage andentered the Stars dressingrooms and the famousgreen room. The greenroom is the preparationsuite; the talent waits theirturn to be called beforethey are escorted to performonstage.Surprisingly, the greenroom wasn’t green at all;rather, and orange colorwith music memorabiliahanging on the walls.The tour continuedto the VIP section onthe fourth floor. This is where special invitedguests get to experience the royal treatmentwith a breathtaking view of the entire5,400 seat venue from the very top rows ofthe thickly cushioned black leather seats.From there it was over to the casinofloor to meet with Technically AssistedDevice (TAD) Manager Mike Manarina.He spoke to the students about his experienceof more then 20 years in the casinoindustry and how he had started at the bottomand worked his way up to manager.Manarina also explained some of the tasksthat TAD attendants perform and how thebingo machines work.At the concierge desk the groupwas given a brief guided tour of the checkinarea and around the beautiful poolsideoutdoorarea as well by Guest ServicesFelix DoBoszFelix DoBoszStudents enjoy big view from top of the Hard Rock Live.Assistant Manager Julian Wright. Heanswered all the student’s questionspatiently and with professional pride. Afterthe walkabout, the students were hungryand it was time to be treated to a wonderfullunch at the famous Blue Plate Restaurantprovided by Larry Frank.The four students were given souvenirsof their memorable tour and seemedto enjoy this enterprising trip while havinga clearer understanding of the way thingswork at the dynamic Seminole Hard RockCasino & Hotel. They were excited to getback on the bus after lunch to go for aquick trip of fun and games at Gameworks,in the Sawgrass Mills Mall before headingback home to the Big Cypress.The students would like to telleveryone at the Seminole Hard Rock,“Thanks for a great day!”

The Seminole Tribune 11 April 7, 2006GLIHA, USET Hold Joint Housing MeetingHUD Assistant Secretary of Public and Indian Housing AttendsBy Shelley MarmorHOLLYWOOD — Two prominent NativeAmerican organizations, the Great Lakes IndianHousing Organization (GLIHA) and the UnitedSouthern and Eastern Tribes (USET), held a meetingthe week of March 6–10 at the Seminole Hard RockHotel & Casino.Several organization officials includingAdministrator ofEastern/Woodlands Office ofNative American ProgramsKevin Fitzgibbons, USETChairperson and Seminolecitizen Joel Frank andGLIHA Chairperson CherylParish made brief introductoryspeeches.Frank offered amicableremarks to those in attendance,saying: “Welcome toSouth Florida, SeminoleCountry and the SeminoleHard Rock.” He added thatthe conference would largelycover natural disaster preparedness;a topic the effectsFlorida immensely, but alsothe rest of the nation.“It’s not any onearea, its all areas” Frank said.“We need to be prepared andminimize disaster.”Following thesespeeches, NarragansettCouncil RepresentativeHiawatha Brown offeredinvocation.Immediately following,keynote speaker OrlandoCabrerra representing theU.S. Department of Housingand Urban Development(HUD), addressed the conferenceattendees. Cabrerra, the HUD assistant secretaryof public and Indian housing, continued Frank’sremarks on natural disaster preparedness.“I wanted to begin with something close tohome,” Cabrerra said. “…Close to home for Floridiansis hurricanes.”In addition to disaster preparedness, Cabrerradiscussed housing. He said the Bush Administration“has made no secret that home ownership is the cornerstoneof economic development.”He commended the Seminole Tribe for theiradvantageous use of HUD’s Section 184 LoanProgram, the Indian Home Loan Guarantee Program.According to the HUD website,www.hud.gov, “The program is designed to offerhome ownership, property rehabilitation, and new constructionopportunities for eligible tribes, IndianShelley MarmorOrlando Cabrerra representing the U.S.Department of Housing and UrbanDevelopment (HUD).Housing Authorities and Native American individualsand families wanting to own a home on their nativelands.”The Seminole Tribe of Florida was the firstNative American Tribe to take advantage of this program.With these funds, the Tribe was able to improveexisting housing as well as add housing on the reservations.The conference continuedwith additional activediscussions on the topic ofdisaster preparedness. Anintensive Tribal DisasterPreparedness Training sessiontook place on March 7.RegionalCommander for theWisconsin State Patrol DacePichette and Director ofTraining for the State ofWisconsin’s Patrol AcademyDarren Price facilitated thiscourse.Price informed theattendees that “this isn’tsomething we started after9/11,” admitting the twowork with compromising situationsregularly as patrolpersonnel. He added thathimself and Pichette travelthroughout the U.S. conductingthis seminar.“This is not goingaway,” Pichette said. “This issomething you folks have tounderstand.”The topics coveredin this seminar included:civil disturbance, natural disastersand large, plannedevents. The two showedvideos of incidents such asHurricane Katrina in New Orleans, La., fires and carcrashes showing examples of good and poor responses.The conference continued with other seminarssimilar to this Tribal Disaster PreparednessTraining session. Some of the other seminars included“Creating Tribal Reality and Probate Functions toSupport Housing,” “HUD Supportive Housing forElders and for Persons with Disabilities” and also generalmeeting of both the USET and GLIHA organizations.On the final day of the USET/GLIHA meeting,March 10, attendees were able to enjoy a full dayof activities in Big Cypress. They took a much neededbreak from their official duties with a trip to the BCreservation complete with visits to the Ah-Tah-Thi-KiMuseum and Billie Swamp Safari.Felix DoBosz(Seated L-R): Steve Simonton, Ray Collier, Lisa Pepe, Aaron Billie; (Standing L-R): Bob Green, ShaneRuiz, Troy Clay, Joel Frank Sr., Pete Russo, Tony Castrenze, Don Fulton, Peggy Reynolds, John Madrigal,Keith Samuels.Good-Bye Ray Collier of the Housing Dept.By Felix DoBoszHOLLYWOOD — Ray Collier is retiring?No way, say it isn’t true. Ray has worked as a supervisorof construction for the Seminole Housingdepartment since 1984, and before that he worked forthe Tribe as a general contractor for three years.Monica Wasco, Ray Collier and Jackie Jones.Felix DoBoszFelix DoBoszRay Collier checks out his brand new fishing gear.He has been a South Florida resident for thepast 72 years, and was born and raised in Okeechobee,Fla. Ray Collier a veteran of the Korean War, decidedit was time to retire and spend sometime catching upon his favorite pastime, fishing, and remembering allhis good times working for the Housing dept.His friends and co-workers decided to throwhim a little good-bye, thank you luncheon at theSeminole Hard Rock Casino & Hotel on March 23.They sat around the tables talking, joking and laughing,with Ray about all the ups and downs that they allexperienced working together for so many years.Many of his co-workers and friends in theHousing department had kind words to say aboutCollier at his farewell luncheon.Troy Clay, director of Housing, said: “Ouroffice is like one big happy family and we will reallymiss him.”Pete Russo, assistant director of Housingadded: “He’s synonymous with housing in Brighton;he’s always stepped up to the plate whenever asked.”Aaron Billie, housing construction managersaid: “He was very dependable and very knowledgeableand didn’t mind sharing his experience with others.”Ray looked serenely around the huge ballroomand said softly: “I’m really going to miss everybody,but I look forward to relaxing and fishing.”

The Seminole Tribune 12 April 7, 2006Dear Counselor,I am a 19year old young ladywith a broken heartand I am totally confused.When I was18 I met a man fiveyears older than Iam. I told him that Iwas a year olderthan I was hoping itwould make himlike me more.I becameintimate with him onour second date andfound out a fewweeks later that hewas intimate with afew other girls.Even though I havea boyfriend I havebeen with for almost four years, I washeartbroken; not because I was fed a tasteof my own medicine, but because I wasactually in love with this guy.I had experienced feelings for himin a few weeks that I had never experiencedwith my boyfriend in the four years.My boyfriend and I are no longer togetherbecause he became suspicious of mybehavior and broke off therelationship. I spendmy every wakingmoments thinkingabout thisman. I amafraid to tellhim that I amactually oneyear youngerthan he thinksbecause it mightpush him awaycompletely.I stay angryat him because he isstill intimate with othergirls. I truly love him anddon’t know what to do. Pleasehelp me.Signed,ConfusedDear Confused,Your letter leaves me confusedabout what is confusing you. Are youconfused about the fact that you think theolder guy won’t continue to exploit youand use you if he knows you are a yearyounger than he thinks? Or because hecontinues to sleep with other girls despitethe fact that you have given him yourheart and your body? Or perhaps you areconfused because you lost your boyfriendfor a manipulator that is interested inAsk The Counseloryour body and notyour heart?Believe me,you do not yet knowwhat love is, andyou certainly don’tknow heartbreak. Ifyou continue tosleep with this guyand lose focus ofyour self-respectand dignity, you willknow heartbreak upclose and personal.What if youget pregnant by thisplayer? What if youget a sexually transmitteddisease? Andthat’s a good possibilityconsideringthat he sleepsaround. Clear your head and start yourjourney on the road in taking care ofyourself.This man does not deserve you,and you certainly deserve better.Confused, let me share something withyou; girls look to their father to showthem what men value in awoman. If a youngwomen’s fatherrejects her, shewill seek aman to meetthe unfulfilledneeds. If herfather is warmand nurturing,she will lookfor a lover toequal him.If afather thinks hisdaughter is beautifuland feminine,she will be inclined tosee herself that way.However, if he rejectsher as unattractive, she islikely to carry self-imageproblems into adulthood.A woman’s relationshipwith herself and her relationshipwith the men in her life is greatlyinfluenced by the relationship she haswith her father. Confused, the bottom lineis fathers make a significant difference inthe lives of their daughters, in the lives oftheir children.As a counselor every young girlthat I have counseled, who gave up ontheir hopes, their dreams and their future,first gave up on their father.Signed,CounselorDon’t Forget AboutYour Feet!Submitted by the Seminole Health DepartmentAnyone concerned with staying healthy knows they need tomake healthy food choices, get regular exercise and regular medicalcheck ups. For people with diabetes, staying healthy requires a littlemore.Diabetics must monitor their blood sugar, take their medicationsproperly and be aware of other health problems that maydevelop. Diabetics also need to be more aware of the health of theirfeet. High blood sugar can cause damage to the feet. Loss of feelingand poor blood flow to the legs and feet, caused by high bloodsugar, can lead to other injuries and infections.Luckily, by controlling blood sugar and by followingthese helpful tips anyone can keep their feet happy and healthy.For more information about proper foot care please contact yourreservation’s health educator.Healthy Foot Check Listo Check your feet daily for changes or injuries: Make sure tocheck in between your toes. Ask a family member to help ifyou have poor eyesight.o Check your feet for blisters, cuts, scratches, red or blackspots, ingrown toenails and dryness.o Wash feet daily in warm water, not hot, using a mildsoap. Make sure to apply lotion after you have dried yourfeet thoroughly and remove any excess lotion frombetween the toes.o File or cut your toenails straight acrosso Have any corns, calluses or ingrown toenailsremoved by your health care provider.o Wear clean, dry, cotton socks everyday. All socksshould fit loosely.Always wear your shoes, indoors and outdoors.o Shoes should fit loosely, correctly and comfortably.Have your foot doctor check your shoes to seeif they fit properly.o Be aware of how you sit; crossing your legs canrestrict blood circulation to your feet.o When going for a pedicure, check to see if yoursalon is experienced working with diabetic patients.o Report all changes and injuries to your doctorimmediately.

The Seminole Tribune 13 April 7, 2006Team Seminole WalksTogether for Healthy BabiesTeam SeminoleSubmitted by the Seminole Health DepartmentSubmitted by the Seminole Health DepartmentTeam Seminole: Suzanne Davis, Edna McDuffie, Judy Jim, Cari Saldin, Melanie Wells, Brenda Bordogna, Harley Roberts, TinaMennella, Jaime Schevis.Team Seminole Walks for Heart HealthSubmitted by the Seminole HealthDepartmentDAVIE, FL — On March 11Team Seminole joined the American HeartSubmitted by the Seminole Health DepartmentJudy Jim crossing the finish line.Association at Nova SoutheasternUniversity for the American Heart Walk.The three mile walk brought out thousandsof walkers and many vendors from variouslocal health agencies and retail companies.The day’s events began with anaerobics warm up from 24 Hour Fitnessaerobics instructors, a motivational commentaryfrom Channel 10 news staff, andentertainment from a local dance group,the Hip Hop Kidz.The Seminole Tribe of Florida’sbooth provided participants with informationon Seminole culture, body mass index,heart health and heart healthy foods. Forthe kids, the Seminole Health departmentprovided Frisbees to encourage them tobe physically active.Team Seminole, led by CaptainEdna McDuffie, participates in many localcommunity walks as well as having membersparticipate in each reservation’s weeklyand monthly health department walks.For more information about walksin your area or to join Team Seminoleplease contact Edna McDuffie at the BigCypress Wellness Trailer, (863) 983-5798.Team Seminole would like to givea big thanks to the Chairman’s office forhis continued support in helping toincrease awareness of walking as a way tobetter health.Submitted by the Seminole Health DepartmentTeam Captain Edna McDuffie crossingthe finish line.Submitted by the Seminole HealthDepartmentOKEECHOBEE COUNTY, FL— Team Seminole walkers arrived early atFlagler Park on March 18 to participate inthe Okeechobee County Walk America.Seventy-three Tribal citizens, communitymembers and Tribal employees fromBrighton, Big Cypress and Hollywoodcame out to support the fundraising effortsof the March of Dimes.The Seminole Tribe of Floridaproudly supported our own ambassadorfamily for the 2006 Okeechobee WalkAmerica. Patty and J.R. Entry and sonsKyle, Brandon and Dakota were chosen bythe March of Dimes to represent theSubmitted by the Seminole Health DepartmentEntry family posterSeminole Tribe. Patty is a Tribal citizenfrom the Brighton reservation.Patty and J.R. have three sonswho have all been born slightly premature.Patty and Joe understand the danger of anearly delivery as well as the struggle prematurebabies can face. The Entry familyalso joined in the fundraising effort. Theirfamily team was named “Bud’s Misfits.”The Okeechobee branch of theMarch of Dimes brought in a record$55,000 from the Walk America campaignfor 2006. The funds raised will go toresearch, health promotion, and helpingfamilies affected by a premature birth.Along with the Seminole Healthdepartment, the Brighton preschoolbecame involved with the March of Dimes.The preschoolers raised a whopping$1,800 to help the Walk America campaign.The Brighton preschool also hosteda mini walk on March 10 to kick off theMarch awareness campaign.Team Seminole awards for 2006 include:New Treasure Coast March of DimesSponsorMost registered walkersMost walkers on walk dayTop fundraising teamChairman’s AwardThe Entry family awards for 2006 include:Top fundraising familyChairman’s AwardBrighton Preschool awards for 2006include:Most clever wrap around fund raisingevent

The Seminole Tribune 14 April 7, 2006 DriveContinued from page 1Stretching out his arms he said, “God hasgiven us a magnificent day to be outside and sharethe wonders of his world. Our ancestors would havebeen very grateful for such an opportunity when theyrounded up their livestockand followed this same routeover sixty years ago. Todaywe commemorate those hardworking men and womenwho established the cattleindustry in the SeminoleTribe. They spent over aweek gathering up the herdfrom the woods and thendriving them down the trailthat you will follow today.”Chairman MitchellCypress addressed the groupfrom horseback.“Moses Jumper,Paul and Richard Bowerswere the originators of theJunior Cypress Trail Drives,”he said. “Setting around acampfire during a cattleroundup, they talked aboutthe need to recognize theirelders and keep the traditionalive for future generations.When many people think ofthe Seminole Tribe, theythink of casinos and gambling.We are so much more.”Continuing Cypresssaid: “Today represents a lotof history. Each year weselect one of our elders asHonorary Trail Boss. For ourTenth Annual Drive, we recognizeJimmy Smith. Hisfather, Morgan Smith, participatedin the arrival of the firstcattle herd to Big Cypress.“In an effort toestablish industry on thenewly formed reservation, theU.S. government brought cattlefrom the MescalaroApache to the railhead atBatson, north of Okeechobee.Morgan Smith was one of themen who drove the cattlesouth through the woods andswamps to Big Cypress in thelate 1930s.“Jimmy Smith followsin his family’s footstepsand has been a part of thecattle production at BigCypress during his entire life.From that small beginning,the Seminole Tribe has developedinto one of the majorbeef producers in the state ofFlorida.”In conclusionCypress said: “At this time, Iwould like to recognizeBenny Hernandez. He hasworked for the SeminoleTribe for many years and hasbrought the livestock out herefor each one of the ten cattledrives. He may not be tall,but he is the man who makesthings happen and we appreciatehis effort. The SeminoleTribe is very happy to inviteall of you here today andhope that you will want tocome back next year. Put uson your calendar.”Moses Jumper thenadded some comments.“Each year, I seemore and more new faces inthe crowd,” said Jumper.“Cattle were the first industryfor the Seminole Tribe andhave a great history. I amhappy to be a part of thisTenth Annual Trail Drivecommemorating that historyand our forefathers. My onlyregret is the fact that due to aknee injury, I will not be ableto ride with you.”Pointing to a largeswamp buggy, he said: “I willbeing following you everystep of the way from my bigwheel chair, because I wouldn’twant to miss this for theworld. I hope we don’t havetoo many wrecks or buck-offsthis year. I know that’s allpart of the fun, but no dogand pony shows. We don’twant anyone to get hurt.”Jumper concludedby introducing Bruce Pratt,the pastor of the HollywoodChickee Church.“I am a PawneeIndian, originally fromNebraska, but most recentlyOklahoma,” he said. “I nowmake my home inHollywood, Florida, and lookforward to joining you fortoday’s event.”Laughing, Pratt said,“I think I should warn you,the Pawnee were known asgreat horse thieves. I see a lotof fine animals here todayand you might want to keepan eye on them. Seriously,every good thing comes fromGod and I would like to takethis opportunity to thank himand ask his blessing for theSeminole Tribe of Floridaand their friends, the beautyof the day, the sunshine andits warmth. God bless us all.”Charles Hiers-Billie,mounted on his beautiful customizedHarley Davidson,carrying the flag for theSeminole Tribe, led off downthe trail as the cattle were turned out of the pens andthe riders fell into place.It was an impressive sight with more than150 riders on some of the most beautiful horsesimaginable. Muscular quarterhorses born to work cattle,tall energetic thoroughbreds racing back and forthamong the riders, the never tiring Arabians, and thePasofinos dancing down the trail, made for a horselovers paradise.Ayze Henry tacks up her horse for the trail drive.Billy Johns on his Peruvian Pasafino.One of two hayride wagons that participated in the trail drive.Honorary Trail Boss Jimmy Smith.Judy WeeksJudy WeeksJudy WeeksIris Wall, a member of an old Florida pioneer family from Indiantown,still works her ranch.Judy WeeksJudy WeeksImmokalee Seminole Youth and LivestockRanch provided mounts for a number of the dignitariesand followed the herd with a pick up trailer forthe weary. The procession included two horse drawnwagons, swamp buggies, a chuck wagon and the redwagon with a multitude of refreshments.Beginning at the end of the West BoundaryRoad, the Cattle Drive follows the trail of the originalSeminole cattlemen for 12 miles before arriving(L-R) Jimmy Smith and Rudy Osceola.Pauletta Bowers holding Savannah Fish.Charles Hiers-Billie leads off the trail drive with the Tribal flag.at the Junior Cypress Rodeo Arena. Along the way,participants had an opportunity to see the beautifulcountryside, which the Seminole Tribe has developedfrom scrub and swamp into woodlands, pasture land,water management areas, citrus groves and producefarms.While cattle was the first Tribal industry, theSeminoles have expanded in many directions whilepreserving their independence and prospering in thehighly competitive world ofthe 21st Century.A relay camp hadbeen set up at the halfwaypoint to rest the livestock andriders. Mary Jene Koenes hadgraciously allowed the use ofa portion her cattle pasture forthis purpose. Wearing her nailapron and with hammer inhand she stopped her fencework long enough to greet thecowboys and cowgirls.A rare sight was thepicket line with more than100 horses tied in a row whiletheir riders rested andrefreshed themselves in a Red,White, Black and Yellow tentprovided for their comfort.Richard Bowers tookcontrol of the rest area andJudy WeeksJudy WeeksJimmy Smith was a passenger in the chuckwagon during the cattle drive.Judy Weeks(L-R) Chairman Mitchell Cypress, Alice Sweat, Trail Boss Jimmy Smith,Jenny Johns Garcia and Richard Bowers.Judy WeeksJudy Weeksbegan by thanking CountyCommissioner Bill Maddoxand his wife for their sponsorshipof refreshments. He thenacknowledged the SeminolePolice Department, Fire andRescue, Ambulance Serviceand Seminole Broadcastingfor their fine efforts. Nextcame a brief history of thecattle drive, Junior Cypressfor whom it is named and thepast honorary trail bosses.Bowers then introduced thisyear’s trail boss, JimmySmith.Jimmy Smith wasborn in the woods somewherebetween Ft. Pierce andOkeechobee, Fla. 73 yearsago. His father was the legendaryMorgan Smith whodrove the Mescalaro Apachecattle from Batson to BigCypress and started the cattleindustry for the Seminoles.His mother Julia Billie eventuallyhad her own herd carryingthe Bar5 brand. Heclimbed in the saddle at avery early age and learnedranching from the bottom up.By the time Smithwas 14 years old, he was onhis own and seeking jobs tosupport himself. Like so manyof the Seminoles of his era, hewas a day worker on themajor South Florida ranches–Collier’sImmokaleeRanch, Alico, Lykes Brothersand Davis, to name a few.It would be modestto say that he is a self-mademan. Despite his 73 years, hestill owns approximately 75head of cattle with the JSbrand and shares a pasturewith his nephew Mike Smith,and sisters, Jenny JohnsGarcia and Alice Nunez.Smith told the gathering:“I haven’t been on ahorse in three years, but I stillhelp with the vaccinating,worming and working of mycows. My sisters are ridingthe horses today but I am ridingin the chuck wagon. Ithink a lot about the time Iwas nearly run down andkilled by a cow in my youngdays.”Sitting beside hiswife, Rosie, he talked aboutthe alcohol and drugs whichhave become a major setbackon the reservations. Hewished to tell our young peoplethat he has been in recoveryfor ten years and theyhave been the best years ofhis life. It is never too late tobecome sober and turn yourlife around.Chairman Cypressthanked Smith for his wordsof wisdom and recalled thebrave elders who had built theSeminole Tribe into what it istoday.“Last year was ascorcher, but we have had agreat ride on the first half andthe promise of a wonderfulsecond leg of our journey,” hesaid.Richard Bowers thenintroduced Vivian “The TexasTornado” Villarreal. Villarrealis the sixth-ranked women’spool player in the world. TheSeminole Tribe of Florida’sSeminole Sports Managementsponsors her.Villarreal said: “Ihave proved today that I amnot a cowgirl, but I have had awonderful time. Since my lastvisit, I have filmed two showsand contracted for severalmore. I played the BlackWidow last night and defeatedher 7-6 on the pool table.”She then told ahumorous story aboutChairman Cypress and “theBlack Widow’s web,” beforethanking the Seminole Tribefor their sponsorship andinviting everyone to see thecompetitions being held at theHard Rock in Hollywood.Benny Motlow reminiscedabout the old days

The Seminole Tribune 15 April 7, 2006when you worked for $10–15 per day and werehappy to have the money. Finally, it went up to $25per day and we thought we had it all. Times werehard, but we had families to feed and our pride andself-reliance kept us going.Richard Bowers introduced Iris Wall of theCracker Horse Association of Florida. Born 76 yearsago on her family’s ranch near Indiantown, sheremembered the Seminole day workers and her oldfriend, Betty Mae Jumper. Not too long ago, she hada fish fry and the highlight of the day was sittingaround identifying the old timers in a photo from oneof the old cattle drives more than 50 years ago.She ended by saying: “I am a cowgirl. Whenmy husband died, I turned the lumber business overto the family and I began to run our ranching operations.Cattle runs in the blood of my family. I wouldlike to say how proud I was of the Seminole Tribewhen I attended their recent Veterans’ DayCelebration. Their patriotism is something to be honored.”Moses Jumper confided, “I was sittingaround the campfire with Paul and Richard Bowersone night many years ago and we talked about wantingto preserve the wonderful feeling and memoriesthat the cattle drives gave to us. In that setting, theJunior Cypress Cattle Drive was born.“Every year it has gotten bigger and better.It is a pleasure to welcome everyone here and impossibleto thank all the fine people who have made itpossible. I would however like to mention BennyHernandez. He cares for the livestock and makesthem available for our use and then attends to them atthe end of the trail. He has been with us since thefirst drive and I hope will help us with many more tocome.”Moses Jumper is not only a storyteller buthas published three books of poems. For everyone’sdelight, he then recited “Indian Cowboy Dreams,”which received a round of applause. Jumper talkedabout his mother, the history of horses among theSeminoles and his great pride in the warriors whohave fought in the armed forces to preserve our freedom.“Today is a tradition,” he said. “The originalround ups were done by mosquitoes and horsefliesaround the waterholes. Wewere beat up from all day inthe brush and weary aroundthe campfire at night, butnone of us would trade ourmemories.”Old Florida CrackerStoryteller Butch Harrisonentertained the audience withhis tales of old Florida andtold a humorous accountabout an alligator sharing thebed of an obnoxious youngman. Being a Florida native,he grew up on the East coastand has spent his lifetime as afishing guide, photographer,wildlife conservationist andstoryteller.Benny Motlowrecalled growing up aroundPaul Bowers, who is one ofhis idols.“When I was ayoung man, I sure could getinto trouble,” he said. “Paulwould shake my hand when Iwas good, and straighten meout when I was bad.”Pointing at Bowers,he said: “When I think ofPaul, I don’t see the man youare looking at now. I rememberhim in his ’72Thunderbird pulling a trailerwith his cowboy hat tippeddown over his eyes and hiscrooked grin. He had the attitudeand self assurance ofSteve McQueen’s JuniorBonner. I can’t thank Paulenough for everything he hasmeant to me.”Like all good thingsthat have to come to an end,the rest stop was over and itwas time to head’um up andmove’um out! The second legof the journey brought theriders into the Big Cypresscommunity where the roadsidewas lined with appreciativespectators. At the journey’send was the JuniorCypress Rodeo Arena wherea fantastic barbeque had beenprepared for the ridersdelight.Numerous vendorswere on hand with souvenirsof the day ranging from horsetack, clothing, western furniture,pictures, jewelry, hats,toys, blankets and variousmemorabilia. While gatheredbeneath the food tent, the participantsoffered a continualchorus of thank you’s to theSeminole Tribe and weremaking plans for next year.Before partaking ofthe delicious meal, JoeOsceola offered a blessing.Osceola is one of the Tribalelders, who have been veryactive in the cattle industryfor many years and havemade it a family tradition.His daughter Janice,not only grew up helpingwith his ranching efforts, butfilmed the cattle drive forSeminole Broadcasting. Shewas accompanied all day longby his great-granddaughter,Ragan Osceola, whose grandfatheris cattleman JonahCypress and she is also thegreat-granddaughter of JuniorCypress for whom the CattleDrive is named.At the end of a longday on the trail the TenthAnnual Cattle Drive participantswere treated to a performanceof the EasternIndian Rodeo Association(EIRA).Arena announcerWendell Cooper ofAnd away they go!Okeechobee, Fla. was assisted during the evening’sproduction by Council Delegate for the Crow NationDale Oldham. Oldham has a distinctive, deep, clearvoice which has placed him in popular demand as anannouncer since 1969. In the past he has spent 50 ofthe 52 weekends in a single year announcing rodeos,pow-wows, horse races and boxing events.Oldham’s accomplishments don’t end here.Indian Cowboy DreamsA tribute to Morgan Smith, one of the SeminoleTribes First Indian CowboysAs a young boy I stood in awe, as I watchedthese rugged men of oldThey were dark with their jet black hair, toppedwith “ole Stetson hats,” andfaces that were bold!Their jeans were worn as were the faded longsleeve shirts they wore with pride…The boots, the spurs, they had it all, even to thehorses they would ride…I knew these men before I’d heard of Gene,Roy, and Wayne,I didn’t know these movie cowboys stood for away of life that would cause our people somuch pain!The Indian Cowboys I knew were for real! Andsomething told me, that’s what I needed to be,Big Morgan Smith cracking the whip, and ridingalong with old Samson Dixie…Those were the days of the big roundups, thefamily feast and the long cattle run,There were no one day shows or being late,and you stayed til the work was done!I would spend the nights at the Morgan’s Camplying under the ole tin roof while having myIndian Cowboy Dreams,Awakening to the sounds of the squeaky oldarmy saddles and feeling the coolness of themorning fog as the men would have thatimportant coffee and cream…I loved it all and for a boy of nine, it was all Iwanted to be,Cattle begin the 12 mile drive from the West Boundary Road to theJunior Cypress Arena.Moses Jumper introducing Bruce Pratt of the Hollywood ChickeeChurch.Judy WeeksJudy WeeksJudy WeeksJudy WeeksThe magnificent three (L-R): Chairman Mitchell Cypress, Benny Motlow,and Richard Bowers.The wet season, the hanging moss, the BigCypress Swamp it was a place where a youngboy could really be free!The names are etched in my mind of theseIndian Cowboys of yesteryear:Charlie Micco, Naha Tiger, Josiah Johns, truecattlemen who knew no fear!Braided bull whips, Mexican spurs, and high inthe deep seated saddle they sat,These wee “real men” from the tip of their bootto the top of their “Tom Mix Hat”…I would play in the “Ole Red Barn”, and waitas the bullets in my toy gun I would load,I would listen and from far off I could hear thehorse’s hooves, as they walked on the shellrock road…These men stood for a way of life that I’m sureonce again, we would all like to see,Good Cow Dogs, Cracker Cattle, a good horseand the glades where a man could really befree…These men were my Heroes, and their namesyou won’t hear on TV,But to those of us who remember, their nameswill always be a part of our history…And as long as there is a horse to ride, a steerto rope, and a bunch of good dogs that work asa team,I’ll remember back to those days when as aboy, I slept under the “Ole Tin Roof,” as thesemen rode tall in my Indian Cowboy Dreams...—Moses Jumper Jr.Judy Weeks(L-R) Vivian Villarreal, Curtis Weeks, Adriane Cypress and Ayze Henrywait for the cattle release at the pens.Judy WeeksGeorge and Sally Billie joined the cowboys and cowgirls for breakfast atthe Swampwater Cafe.Jenny Johns Garcia and Benny MotlowHe has been a college professor since 1971 teachingNative American studies. Retiring in 2005, he tookthe position of Crow Tribal historical preservationofficer and reduced his public appearances to approximately20 events per year.The Junior Eastern Indian Rodeo got underwayat 6 p.m. with a generous crowd in the bleaches.The clown offered his encouragement to the youngstersby making wagers with them on the results.Sarah Descheene got a good grip on hersheep and made it all the way down the area beforebeing dislodged after her mount went airborne. Asalways the mutton bustin’ was a favorite with the followingresults: 1.Ahnee Jumper, 2.Sarah Descheene,3.Danny Rodriguez, 4.Kirkland Boney.The wild pony and bareback competitionfound the youngsters on some very nasty critters. J.J.Johns’ white pony was full of the devil and was notsatisfied with bucking him off, but kicked him afterhe hit the ground. Pony riding results are: 1.JoshJohns, 2.Austin Holmes; Junior bareback: 1. EthanArnold.There were an abundance of entries in calfriding and some very energetic rough stock. MichaelGarcia didn’t just get bucked off, but did a doublesomersault as he hit the ground. Kelton Smedley hadan excellent ride with a 3.16 score, followed by JobeJohns and Blevins Jumper.There were several tense moments in thesteer riding when Cody Motlow got hung up anddragged into the fence, but you can’t keep a goodman down and he eventually walked away unharmedand sporting a first place position.Josh Johns took second and Andrew Holmeswas third. Andre Jumpers steer bucked so hard it torehis chaps off. Zane Ducheneaux had a fantastic rideand ended by throwing his hat in the air.Unfortunately, Ducheneaux’s hand had touched thebull half way down the arena and caused a disqualification,but it still will be a ride to remember.The junior bulls gave Ethan Gopher, JustinAldridge and Seth Randolph a run for their money.One bull went to bucking in the chute and anotherwouldn’t react for a good ride resulting in a secondshot for the contestant. Seth Randolph took first andEthan Gopher was second.Four to eight year old barrels finished withthe following scores: 1.Kalgary Johns, 2.Jobe Johns,3.Ahnee Jumper, 4.Cyrus Smedley.There were a number of beginners on leadline with their moms and siblings running the patternsfor them. Rayvan King, son of Ray and JodyKing, did his debut appearance by himself on a whitepony. Although the animal refused to cooperate, Kingstuck with him and not onlyrode the length of the arena,but stayed on board when thepony raced out of the arena.That pony didn’t know whatkind of a tough hombre hewas messing with.Nine to 12 year oldbarrels had one buck off andtwo broken patterns, but fourriders came home with themoney. Results: 1.NauthkeeHenry, 2.AcealynYoungblood, 3. AdrianneCypress, 4.Regan Tigertail.There was a big surprisein the 13 to 18 year oldbarrels when RebeccaOsceola blew everyone’sdoors off with an 18.215 andtook first place. Osceola hasbeen practicing a lot andJudy Weeksentered a few barrel races, butwould have to be considered anovice. However, her March25 ride was spectacular andmade her want to practice allthe more. She had very stiffcompetition from JanaeBraswell and Taylor Johnswho were hot on her heels.It was a rough nightin the junior breakaway withthe animals winning in manycases. With six entries, theonly perfect catch was DaltonBerry with a 50.2 score.The legends breakawaybrought three elderssuccess: 1.Amos Tiger,2.Parker Jones and 3.NormanJohns.The special attractionfor the evening was SidMcFarland and his son Trent.Hailing from Montgomery,Ala., Sid has 36 years ofrodeo under his belt, whileTrent has been clowning professionallyfor 13 years.During Sid’s career,he has appeared in rodeosfrom Madison Square Gardenin New York, N.Y. to the CowPalace in San Francisco,Calif. From north to south, hehas played Canada toNicaragua. Moving for a timeto Cody, Wyoming, to bemore centrally located on therodeo circuit, he eventuallyreturned home to Alabama.Sid McFarland wasn’talways a clown. He hascompeted in bareback, bullsand steer wrestling and canboast of a combined time incasts of over two-and-a-halfyears. A firefighter by tradehe has one more year toretirement and then plans notto let a day job get in the wayof his rodeo clowning. Hisson Trent is a registered nurseand looks forward to a longcareer in the medical fieldbefore he can make rodeo afull time proposition.The sanctionedevening performance includedbareback, saddle bronc, andbulls with favorites ShawnBest, Freddie Warbonnet andGreg Louis taking top honors.Greg Louis walked off withthe money in the steerwrestling while AlfonzoTigertail, Cort Herrera andHilliard Gopher excelled inthe calf roping.In the women’sevents the results were as follows:Breakaway: 1. MindyFish, 2. Clarissa Bowers, 3.Leanna Billie; Barrels: 1.Boogie Jumper, 2. SheyannaOsceola, 3. Clarissa Bowers,4. Perrie Whidden, 5. LisaOsceola.

The Seminole Tribune 16 April 7, 2006

The Seminole Tribune 17 April 7, 200640th Annual Howard TigerMemorial Basketball TournamentBy Tony HeardHOLLYWOOD — The longestrunning memorial tournament around is theAnnual Howard Tiger Tournament. Honoringthe individual who played and brought focusto many of the sports played on all the reservationstoday, is something everyone looksforward to each year.This year the tournament was heldon the March 9–11 for the legends andadults. The youth would play the followingweekend in honor of Howard Tiger. Thisillustrious basketball tournament consists ofthree different age groups legends, adults,and youth. The legends division consists ofthe elders who paved the way for all of us.They round up able bodies who stillget up and down the court to compete for afew friendly games. It is always a joy watchingthe elders compete and have a good timeplaying this wonderful game. The women’sside of the legends was a bit limited this yearand the men were hard to find also. Throughword of mouth and a few phone calls the menrounded up enough to have a game.It was back and forth for most of the game,then a couple steals, and a couple three point shotswent down and the lead opened up for the home team.The teams were mixed and matched with people fromdifferent reservations, and a couple employees wereasked to join in on the fun. In the end, everyone had agreat time and the elders gave us a good basketballChris Osceola protects ball from the defense.game to watch.The next group to hit the hardwood was theadults. Due to the other activities and families notbeing in town, March 11 is the day all the actionkicked off. The teams topped off with five men’steams and four women’s teams.The Lady Sem Rec team started the day offwith a overwhelming win over the Contenders. TheRichard Osceola coaches his team on the court.press and youthful legs of the Sem Rec team was simplytoo much for the Contenders to handle. The SemRec men’s team then captured a win in the next matchup.The game began sluggish and a bit sloppy inthe beginning, but bothteams woke up and thegame became moreinteresting. With threepointersraining fromeverywhere and intensedefense being applied,the Sem Rec team ranaway with the victory inconvincing fashion.The action continuedall day with goodgames from the men andwomen. But perhaps themost exciting game ofthe day was the TrailKings and Str8 Ballinmatch up that tookplace. The game wasback and forth with bigoffensive runs by bothsquads. With a minute togo Trail Kings looked asif they had the win inthe bag with a five pointTony HeardAaron Billie shooting over John Billie in the Howard TigerLegends Tournament.Seminole Legends after the big showdown.lead.The guys from Str8 Ballin had other plansthough. Committing fouls to stop the clock and usingtheir timeouts wisely, the guys from Str8 Ballin gavethemselves a chance to steal the win from the TrailKings. Although the Trail Kings missed a fewfreethrows and was not getting stops they still had thegame in hand.The strategyworked for Str8 Ballinand with 0.4 secondsremaining they had theball out of bounds neartheir basket. The passwas thrown in tippedand then caught in theair by Pete Osceolanear the foul line, notlooking at the baskethe tossed the ball overhis head as the hornsounded.The ballsoared toward the rimas the gym got silentfor a split second;bank, swish and everybodyin the buildingwas going crazy. Itwent in and the refereesignaled that the basketwas indeed good. TrailKings protested andtalked to the officials,Tony Heardand for good reasonconsidering the amountof time that was left onthe clock.The discussiontook place for about 10 minutes with clock keepers,and tournament directors. But in the end the callstood and the basket counted. The end of this gamewas exciting and it was a shame one of those teamshad to lose. There was good sportsmanship showed bythe Trail Kings when they heard of the decision.Although the game was highly competitive everyoneknew we were here to honor Howard Tiger andremembered that by showingclass in defeat.The women’s side ofthe bracket were exciting alsowith Sem Rec Matching upagainst Sundown in the finals.The Sundown ladies were a bitshort handed but still put up afight and competed to try andcapture the victory.The Sem Rec teamwas determined to utilize theirstrengths on defense and intransition to make sure they didnot fall short in the championshipgame. They followedthe game plan of pushing theball up the court and a fullcourt press that gave them theedge over the Sundown ladies.The Sem Rec ladies ending upbeing crowned the championsof the 40th Annual HowardTiger Basketball Tournament.The match up for themen in the championship gamewas the Sem Rec team versusthe Str8 Ballin guys. The gamewas pretty nip and tuck theentire game until about 10 minutesto go and the Sem RecTony Heardteam got a few defensive stopsand hit some big shots to put adamper on their opponents.The lead climbed andthe Sem Rec team continued toput the pressure on the guys from Str8 Ballin, just toinsure there would be no last second heroics. Thegame ended and the champions were crowned. SemRec had captured the win but saluted the efforts of theyoung guys competing against them.Tony HeardYouth Play in Adult Howard TigerMemorial TournamentBy Tony HeardHOLLYWOOD — The adults had their timeto shine and now it was time for the real die hardballers to step on the court and strut their stuff. Theyouth tournament was exciting and entertaining asever this timearound. Everyonewho came to playand have a goodtime did just that.The sevenand under groupwas ready to go assoon as theystepped on to thecourt. It was easy tosee that all the kidshave been workingon their skills andimproving. Thescore and team playwas a great exampleof that. With BigCypress and SemRec 1 meeting up inthe final game theheat was on.Diving onthe floor, hard fouls,big rebounds, andeven some goodpasses were all ondisplay. The youngstersfrom B.C.were a little morefine tuned and wasable to put the ballin the hole a fewmore times than theSem Rec team. Inthis age group allthe participants arewinners and it wasjust great to seethem out there playinghard and havingfun.The 10 andunder brackets werecompetitive and fullof action. TheBrighton team facedthe Sem Rec 2 teamin the semi-finalsand gave them a good game. The Sem Rec team had afew more kids that were an impact on the game andended up coming away with the win tomove on to the finals against the talentedBig Cypress squad.The championship game wasbeing controlled by B.C. with transitionbaskets and a trapping defense. BigCypress had a big lead until about sixminutes to go and then the Sem Rec teamcame storming back behind a full teameffort.Everyone who was on the floorcontributed in getting their team back inthe game. Unfortunately, when the finalhorn sounded the comeback fell short andBig Cypress hung on to claim the muchdeserving win. Both teams fought hardand wanted to win badly, but the teamfrom Big Cypress was the better team onthat day and did what it took to win. Theyplayed as a team and more importantly,played with passion and had fun.Lady Seminoles win with their dominating defense.Tony HeardAdult Straight Ballin' proudly brings home the 2ndplace trophy.The 14 and under girls championship camedown to the Lady Seminoles and Brighton. Comingfrom the loser’s bracket the Lady Seminoles weredetermined to not let this game slip away. Brightongot a few come from behind wins to advance to thechampionship gameand was also lookingto go all out to takehome the championshiptrophy. Thegame ended thesame way it began,intense!The youngladies that were onthe court playingthis wonderful gamewere giving it theirall and each playerwas doing everythingin their powerto make sure theirteam was the victors.Both teamsgave their all and itwas a shame one ofthem had to suffer adefeat.Althoughneither team wascompletely in control,the Lady Seminoles had the edge with just a fewminutes to go and played smart and got a few keydefensive stops to lock up the win. Brighton gave asupreme effort but ended up falling a little short. Theway these young ladies compete this will be anintense match upevery time theymeet.The 14and under boyschampionshipgame wasbetween Brightonand Big Cypress.Being these werethe only twoteams in this agedivision theyplayed a best outof three series.Brighton won thefirst game bysimply makingshot when it matteredand playingtough defense.But the next gamewas won by B.C.which created aTony HeardJoseph Osceola shoots the jumper inside the paint inchampionship game.Tony HeardLady Seminoles take the championship in the women's adult tournament.Tony HeardTony HeardMoses Billie gets a good shotunder the basket but fell shortin the Semi-Final men's game.tie breaker match up andthat everybody was readyfor.Big Cypressjumped out to a nice leadand then Brighton went ona run to close the deficitwith just under three minutesto play. Big Cypressthen began to execute andtighten up on the defensiveend. Brighton gave agreat effort but could notget over the hump andpull out the come-frombehindwin. The 17 andunder boys had the samescenario only having twoteams in the age division.But the Str8Ballin guys fromHollywood pulled theirforces together in a closechampionship game and were crowned the champions.The game had many excited points and tons of talentthat were being showcased. This isanother rivalry in the making andboth teams will be ready for thechallenge every time.The 17 and under girlswere the Lady Seminoles oldergroup split up into two teams. Theteams were fairly even and the girlswere competing, biting, scratching,laughing, fouling and pushing likethey were not team mates. It wasgood to see them competing so hardagainst each other trying to makeeach other better.They were all winnersbecause they played hard, had fun,and showed sportsmanship. But inthe end the Lady Seminoles 1 teamcame away with the slight moralvictory and claimed the championship.It was all laughs and goodtime when the final horn sounded,but I know all the kids had a great3rd place Moses's Team.time throughout the tournament andlook forward to the next one.Tony Heard

The Seminole Tribune 18 April 7, 2006

The Seminole Tribune 19 April 7, 2006

The Seminole Tribune 20 April 7, 2006 RezDogContinued from page 1Native American women facingbreast cancer.A portion of the proceedsfrom calendar sales will go towardthe Native American CancerResearch Corporation.Being the first and only all-Indian swimsuit calendar of its kindproduced, there are obstacles,according to RezDog owners andcalendar producers, Mary and KeithDeHaas.“Were trying to breakdownsome of those stereotypical barriersstill out there,” said Mary DeHaas.“We are not just buckskin wearingmaidens.”As the first American Indianfamily owned and operated federallytrademarkedcompany in the U.S.,making a difference is important.“As an Indian owned andoperated venture, we feel it is timefor us to step up and take care of ourown…”said Keith DeHaas.The financial issuesinvolved are another obstacle, aswell. At a cost of $40,000 annuallyfor expenses, raising the funds todevelop such a project each year canbe difficult. The Seminole Tribe of Florida has made adifference as one this year’s sponsors.The final outcome is worth it in the endthough, according to Mary DeHaas.“I really enjoy the creative process, of startingout by finding, and selecting the 12 girls, it’s soexciting… There is an absolute joy in featuring Indianwomen in a mainstream way.”The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino was selectedas this year’s location for its great appeal and popularity.“It showcases the girls in an interesting setting,”Mary DeHaas said. “We chose places whichhave a significant Indian quality to them.”Chris JenkinsKeyah Osceola gives a smile for the cameras as she models herfather’s custom chopperFelix DoBoszThe 12 calendar models pose together outside the Seminole HardRock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood.One of the chosen 12 who debuted in her firstprofessional shoot was Seminole member andHollywood native, Keyah Osceola, 19. She says she isglad to be representing her reservation and the community.“I feel really, really lucky,” Osceola said.“It’s actually a big honor to be doing this, I am actuallythe first Seminole, and I’m especially proud.”Having the support of her family and friendsis a high priority from a tradition standpoint as well.“My grandparents are big on tradition andthey’re proud of me.”Osceola is of the Panther clan and was discoveredby Mary DeHaas at a pow-wow at the HardRock. Her plans are to attend FloridaState University and major in architectureor clothing and design of weddingdresses.The idea and emotions behindthe calendar come from overcomingpersonal misfortune and tragedy in theDeHaas household. The mother ofMary DeHaas, Edna Boardman, is acancer survivor. RezDog co-owner andhusband, Keith DeHaas lost his mother,Rita Ann McLaughlin, the 1955 MissIndian America, to cancer in 1987.With these hardships, alongwith constant requests for a calendar,and the desire to help and sponsorNative American women interested inmodeling and entertainment careers,the calendar was born. Each year’s editionhas since then been dedicated inRita’s honor and memory.Beginning in May, fans andsupporters can pick up their copy of thecalendar or video at any NativeAmerican gift shop nationwide or atwww.RezDog.com.

The Seminole Tribune 21 April 7, 2006NAMMYs Launches National Voting, InvitesMedia to Participate in Nomination ProcessAwards Show Presented By Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & CasinoNominees to be Announced April 15Submitted by NAMMYsThe Eighth Annual Native American MusicAwards, or NAMMYS, has commenced the nominationselection process with the launch of its nationalvoting campaign. More than 150 national recordingswere submitted for nomination consideration and arenow featured on the NAMMYS’ website, www.nammys.com,where registered advisory board memberscan listen to select music tracks from each recordingbefore casting their vote.The NAMMYS, in cooperation with DigitalEndeavors, are issuing complimentary memberships tonational and local media interested in participating inthe nomination selection process. For further information,contact Nammys@aol.com.With native roots from Alaska to NewZealand, more than 30 awards categories display thedepth and diversity of this year’s growing NativeAmerican music scene. Awards categories include:Best Rock/Pop Recording, Jazz/Blues Recording,Gospel/Christian Recording, Instrumental Recording,Traditional Recording, Pow Wow Recording, Rap/HipHop Recording, and Spoken Word among others.The voting deadline, for both paper ballotsand website votes is April 1. Nominees will beannounced by April 15. An estimated one million peopleare expected to participate in the national votingprocess upon its completion in June.The NAMMYS, which USA Today urged, “totake seriously” and Indian Country Today has called“Awesome & Incredible” promises to deliver anothermagical evening of pride and musical excellence thisyear. The Native American Music Awards has beenacclaimed for having “all the professionalism and productionvalues of much larger events like the GrammyAwards and the American Music Awards,” accordingto the American Federation of Radio TelevisionArtists.The Eighth Annual Native American MusicAwards is scheduled to return to the Seminole HardRock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla. on June 8.Visit www.seminolehardrockhollywood.com orwww.Nammys.com for more information.

The Seminole Tribune 22 April 7, 2006BIA Agency Office: Regional OfficeFranklin Keel, Regional Director EasternRegional OfficeBureau of Indian Affairs545 Marriott Dr., Ste 700Nashville, TN 37214Phone: (615) 564-6700Fax: (615) 564-6701BIA Agency Office: Choctaw AgencyRay Thomas, Field RepresentativeChoctaw AgencyBureau of Indian Affairs421 Powell StreetPhiladelphia, MS 39350Phone: (601) 656-1521Fax: (601) 656-2350BIA Agency Office: Eastern RegionJorja Calico, Special Education SpecialistSouth & Eastern States Education Agency,BIA545 Marriott Drive, Suite 720Nashville, TN 37214Phone: (615) 564-6637Fax: (615) 564-6631BIA Agency Office: Cherokee AgencySelf-Gov. CompactDean White, Superintendent CherokeeAgencyBureau of Indian Affairs441 North 257 Tsali BlvdCherokee, NC 28719Phone: (828) 497-9131 Fax: (828) 497-6715 E-mail:BIA Agency Office: Seminole AgencySelf-Gov. Compact:Anna Townsend, Superintendent SeminoleAgencyBureau of Indian Affairs6100 Hollywood Blvd, Suite 206Hollywood, FL 33024Phone: (954) 983-1537Fax: (954) 983-5018BIA Agency Office: Eastern RegionWilliam Phillips, ChiefAroostook Band of Micmacs7 Northern RoadPresque Isle, ME 04769Phone: (207) 764-1972Fax: (207) 764-7667BIA Agency Office: Cherokee AgencyLife Cent Half Town, ChiefCayuga Nation P.O. Box 11Versailles, NY 14168Phone: (716) 532-4847Fax: (716) 532-5417BIA Agency Office: Eastern RegionKevin Sickey, ChairmanCoushatta Indian TribeP.O. Box 818Elton, LA 70532Phone: (337) 584-2261Fax: (337) 584-2998Tribal Leaders and BIA RepresentativesEastern RegionBIA Agency Office: Eastern RegionBrenda Commander, Tribal ChiefHoulton Band of Maliseet Indians88 Bell RoadLittleton, ME 04730Phone: (207) 532-0273Fax: (207) 532-2660E-mail: Tribal-chief@maliseets.comBIA Agency Office: Eastern RegionGilbert Blue, Chairman Catawba IndianTribe996 Avenue of the NationsRock Hill, SC 29730Phone: (803) 366-4792Fax: (803) 366-0629E-mail: Catawbaone@aol.comBIA Agency Office: Eastern RegionAlton D. LeBlanc Jr., ChairmanChitimacha Tribe of LouisianaP.O. Box 661Charenton, LA 70523Phone: (337) 923-4973Fax: (337) 923-6848E-mail: aleblanc@chitimacha.govBIA Agency Office: Cherokee AgencyMichell Hicks, Principal ChiefEastern Band of Cherokee IndiansQualla BoundaryP.O. Box 455Cherokee, NC 28719Phone: (828) 497-2771Fax: (828) 497-7007 E-mail:www.cherokee-nc.comBIA Agency Office: Eastern RegionChristine Norris, Principal ChiefJena Band of Choctaw IndiansP.O. Box 14Jena, LA 71342Phone: (318) 992-2717Fax: (318) 992-8244BIA Agency Office: Eastern RegionMichael J. Thomas, ChairmanMashantucket Pequot Tribe2 MathsPath P.O. Box 3060Mashantucket, CT 06338Phone: (860) 396-6554Fax: (860) 396-6288 E-mail:www.mptn.orgBIA Agency Office: Choctaw AgencyPhillip Martin, ChiefMississippi Band of Choctaw IndiansP.O. Box 6010, Choctaw BranchPhiladelphia, MS 39350Phone: (601) 650-1501Fax: (601) 656-1992www.choctaw.orgBIA Agency Office: Eastern RegionMatthew Thomas, Chief SachemNarragansett Indian TribeP.O. Box 268Charlestown, RI 02813Phone: (401) 364-1100Fax: (401) 364-1104E-mail: mattslaw61@hotmaii.comBIA Agency Office: Cherokee AgencyIrving Powless Jr., ChiefOnondaga Indian NationRR#1, Box 319-BNedrow, NY 13120Phone: (315) 492-4210Fax: (315) 469-1725BIA Agency Office: Eastern RegionBilly Cypress, ChairmanMiccosukee Indian TribeTamiami StationP.O. Box 440021Miami, FL 33144Phone: (305) 223-8380Fax: (305) 223-1011BIA Agency Office: Eastern RegionBruce Bozsum, ChairmanMohegan Indian Tribe5 Crow Hill RoadUncasvilie, CT 06382Phone: (860) 862-6100Fax: (860) 862-6153E-mail: ctodd@moheganmail.comwww.mohegan.nsn.usBIA Agency Office: Cherokee AgencyRay Halbritter, Nation RepresentativeOneida Indian Nation5218 Patrick RoadVerona, NY 13478Phone: (315) 361-7633Fax: (315) 361-7619E-mail: sbarbano@oneida-na6on.orgwww.oneida-nation.netBIA Agency Office: Eastern RegionRobert Newell, GovernorPassamaquoddy Tribe-Indian TownshipReservationP.O. Box 301Princeton, ME 04668Phone: (207) 796-2301Fax: (207) 796-5256E-mail: www.peopleofthedawn.comBIA Agency Office: Eastern RegionMark Altvater, GovernorPassamaquoddy Tribe-Pleasant PointReservationP.O. Box 343Perry, ME 04667Phone:(207) 853-2600Fax: (207) 853-6039E-mail: rickd@wabanaki.comwww.wabanaki.comBIA Agency Office: Eastern RegionFred L. McGhee, ChairmanPoarch Band of Creek Indians5811 Jack Springs RoadAtmore, AL 36502Phone: (251) 368-9136Fax: (251) 368-1026E-mail: sdelmar@poarchcreekindiansnsn.govhttp://www.narf.org/nill/codestpoarchcode/poarchcodetoc.htmBIA Agency Office: Seminole AgencyMitchell Cypress, ChairmanSeminole Indian Tribe6300 Stirling Road Hollywood, FL 33024Phone: (954) 966-6300Fax: (954) 967-3463http://www.seminoletribe.com/BIA Agency Office: Cherokee AgencyEmerson Webster, ChiefTonawanda Band of Seneca7027 Meadville RoadBasom, NY 14013Phone: (716) 542-4244Fax: (716) 542-4244BIA Agency Office: Eastern RegionJames Sappier, ChiefPenobscot Indian Nation12 Wabanaki WayIndian Island, Old Town, ME 04468Phone: (207) 827-7776Fax: (207) 827-6042E-mail: BkimballQPenobscotnabon.orgBIA Agency Office: Cherokee AgencyJames W. Ransom, ChiefSt. Regis Band of Mohawk Indians412 State Route 37Akwesasne, NY 13655Phone: (518) 358-2272Fax: (518) 358-4519E-mail: POT@westelcom.comBIA Agency Office: Cherokee AgencyBarry E. Snyder Sr., PresidentSeneca Nation of Indians12837 Rte. 438Irving, NY 14081Phone: (716) 532-4900Fax: (716) 532-9132http://www.sni.org/BIA Agency Office: Eastern RegionEarl J. Barbry Sr., ChairmanTunica-Biloxi Tribe151 Melacon DriveP.O. Box 1589Marksville, LA 71351Phone: (318) 253-9767Fax: (318) 253-9791E-mail: pat foster@tunica.orgwww.tunica.orgBIA Agency Office: Cherokee AgencyLeo R. Henry, ClerkChief Tuscarora Nation2006 Mt. Hope RoadVia: Lewistown, NY 14092Phone: (716) 622-7061Fax: (716) 297-7355BIA Agency Office: Eastern RegionDonald Widdiss, ChairpersonWampanoag Tribe of Gay Head1 Aquinnah 20 Black Brook RoadAquinnah, MA 02535-1546Phone: (508) 645-9265Fax: (508) 645-3790E-mail: chairprs@wampanoagtribe.netwww.wampanoagtribe.net

The Seminole Tribune 23 April 7, 2006Happy BirthdayWe would like to wish our “LittleBig Man” Jayden a Happy 2nd Birthdayon April 20. Grandpa and Grandma loveyou so much.You have been here just a shorttwo years but you have brought us happiness.Stay strong Little Big Man, becauseyou will always be your mommy’s keeper.Happy birthday, and many, manymore.Love,Grandma Kathy, GrandpaNorman, Uncle LucasI want to wish Eileen F. Cypressa happy birthday. Happy birthday Faye!We’re not getting older, we’re gettingwiser! Hope you have a great day and takecare of yourself. You are in my thoughtseveryday.With lots of love,ToongieIn MemoriamHappy 17th birthday to mytwins, Adriana and Bianca, on April 7.There are moments when all parentswish that time could just stand stilland their daughters could stay little girlsforever. I have known that feeling manytimes.When you were growing up andwish somehow we’re always be togetherme and my twins. Then almost overnightyou all changed into fine young beautifulladies who had learned so much andgrown in every way. But you all willalways be my little girls.When I held the both of you asbabies, I knew that you girls were specialnow I realize just how special. Somehowyou girls still continue to amaze me, especiallyby being good mommy’s to yoursons. I could not be more proud of yougirls.Happy 17th birthday!Love always,MomHappy Birthday Jayden! Otherpeople may say happy birthday Jayden,but your family says to have a great birthdaywith lots and lots of love in it.You have only been in our livesfor two years and that’s only a short whilebut you only bring us more and more happinessin our lives.Have a great day on your day,happy 2nd birthday.Love,Auntie LapeeHappy birthday to Deila E.Harjo who will be 9 years old, JazmineEssence Billie who will be 7 years old andMichelle Ann Jimmie who will be 9 yearsold. I love you all very much; smile andhave fun.From your father,Markell BillieHappy belated birthdayCarolee Nelson who turned 25 on March31. You have been through a lot this pastyear, we hope the best for you and we stilllove you.Love,Your familyBirthday wishes going out toMiss Jewel Alice Frank who will be turning2 years old this April.Baby Hooks you have brought somuch joy and love into our lives this pastyear. Everyday you surprise us with a newrendition of yourself that always tickles us.There is not a day that goes byyou haven’t made us laugh and amaze uswith whatever you learned. You’ll make agreat big sister!We all love you and want you tohave loads of fun at your party!Love forever; Mom (Valerie),Pop (Colin), Grandma (VirginiaMitchell), Eddie, Jesse, Victor, Shelliand Wanda, Grandpa (Michael Frank),Winson and family, Myra and kids, Fayeand family, Bonnie and family, Agnes andfamily, Shirley and family, GreatGrandpa Wm Mitchell, Jackie and family,Tammie and Ray, Vickie and Bill andGrandma Betty.I would like to say a sincere thankyou for all the last several months. Wehave been preparing to see our mother,grandmother, great-grandmother and greatgreat-grandmotherFrances B. Williemoved on to be with her savior JesusChrist.Throughout this time of hardship,my heart was blessed to see our entire familycome together.Special thanks to the MiccosukeeTribe and Dr. Berger and his nursing stafffor their 24 hour care.Also, Chairman Mitchell Cypress,President Moses Osceola, Council Rep.Max B. Osceola Jr., Council Rep. DavidCypress, Council Rep. Andrew Bowers andTrail Liaison William Osceola; as our leadersyour support is a great tribute to thededication you have for our Tribe.A special thank you goes out tothe First Seminole Baptist church andPastor Paul Buster. Also, Betty Osceola,Vivian Osceola, Jo North and LeonaTommie Williams; these ladies made sureeveryone was well taken care of after thefuneral.Last but not least, thank you to allthe individuals as well as Tribal programsfor the beautiful flowers you sent to honorour mother.Thank you all.On behalf of my Family,Marie OsceolaIn Memory of Barnabas “Barney”TommieNovember 3, 1953—March 4, 2006New KidsIt is with heavy heartsthat we say good byeWe are going to missyou very muchYou could always findsomething to laughaboutYour laugh was one of akind and contagiousMost guys wrestlegators with grim concentrationYou would smile andlaugh in the middle of itIt is with sadness butalso with a smile thatyou will be rememberedWe wish you well onyour journeyComing Soon...Melody Negron, accountspayable clerk from the Accountingdepartment, celebrated a joint baby showerand birthday on March 24., at theHollywood Headquarters. Her co-workersenjoyed sharing the moment with her.Bulletin: March 29, 3:30pm, JordanMatthew was born, 6 lbs., 13oz., congratulationsto Melody and Ismael Negron.Fitness Director VickyBarogiannis received a surprise birthdayparty from Big Cypress staff followinga youth conference meeting onApril 15. How old is she? She’s nottelling. Being fit and staying in shapemakes you ageless and keeps youyoung at heart! Contact the Fitnessdepartment for a current class scheduleor to make an appointment for a personaltraining session.We would like to announce ournewest edition Armani Otilia LouiseTorres of the Bird Clan. Born December14, 2005, weight 7 pounds 15 ounces and19 inches long. Proud parents are DoreenCypress and Christopher Torres.Grandparents are David Cypress of theOtter Clan and Martha Doctor of the BirdClan. Brother and sisters are Akol, Akira,Asiana Billie.Lila Osceola and Tony Heardwould like to announce their newest addition,baby Tyla Zelynn Heard was bornon Saturday, March 18, 2006 at 9:11 a.m.,weighing 8 pounds and 15 ounces, 20 ¾inches long. Her proud grandparents areMoses Osceola, Marilyn Ahhaitty,Walter and Covetta Heard, big brotherBronson and sister Stailee, and uncleBlake Osceola.The Communications departmentwould also like to congratulate the Osceolaand Heard family for a job well done! Sheis a beauty!

The Seminole Tribune 24 April 7, 2006