Inside - Seminole Tribe of Florida

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.