EMAHAKV VPELOFVAt the Teaching Hammock seminar for Brighton 1–6grade students, Trista Osceola concentrates on hercoloring

Page 10

2004 Hollywood IncentiveAwards–See all the winnersJackie Willie, one of 33 kindergarten incentive awardreceipients, holds his certificate.

Page 9

Seminole Paradise Update350,000 square feet of retail stores, restau-rants, bars, night clubs, and more are all slatedto open by November 2004

Page 13

50¢ www.seminoletribe.com Volume XXV • Number 12 September 3, 2004

The 2004 Miss Florida Seminole andJunior Miss Seminole Princess Pageant

(L-R) Junior Miss Seminole Krystle Young, Miss National Congress of American Indians 2003–2004 Cheryl V. Dixon, and Miss SeminoleJo Jo Osceola. Congratulations to all the winners and participants! Please see the special Seminole Princess Pageant section on page 21.

Adelsa Williams

By Felix DoBoszDAVIE, FL — On Saturday August

14, the Seminole Tribe of Florida and theDavie Rodeo Association at the Davie RodeoArena sponsored an allgirl rodeo. The HollywoodHorse Club organized thissecond annual event forthe late Tiffany Doctor,who was tragically killedin an auto accident onSnake Road near BigCypress in early 2002.

“They called herT-bone at the rodeo,” hermother Colleen Osceolaremembers. “She playedfootball with the boys ather school in St.Petersburg, AdmiralFarragut Academy.Tiffany often loved toplay sports at her school;she excelled in basketball,softball and even boxing.Big Jim Osceola trainedher to practice boxing.She was one of those girlsthat did everything, if sheliked it, she did it again.”

Doctor was not

only a great athlete, but was also quite popu-lar. Many admired her because, even thoughshe had many friends, she never limited herfriendships to people who were the most pop-

ular at that time. She loved her family themost, and took great pride in being an activemember of the Seminole Tribe of Florida.

She is greatly missed by her familyand friends and peoplewho never even met herbut had heard throughdifferent sources what awarm, kind, beautiful,and dynamic person shereally was.

Debbie DeHass,of the Hollywood HorseClub said “Fifty-fivegirls of all ages werecompeting for all aroundBuckles, in 26 differentcategories in this year'sall girl rodeo.”

Doctor workedfor Hollywood BoardRepresentative DavidDeHass, helping outevery chance she got, shelearned to bull-ride andgot really good with thehorses too.

Debbie said,“Tiffany was a tough andpopular girl, she loved to

By Shelley MarmorHOLLYWOOD — After invocation by Maggie Osceola, the

Tribal Council welcomed the 2004–2005 Seminole Princess, Jo JoOsceola. Osceola, 17, spoke briefly, saying she was honored to be the newprincess, and assured the council that she would be happy to attend anyevents they needed her to in order to represent the tribe.

Immediately after, the council welcomed their special guest,University of Miami (UM) President Donna Shalala. She asked Osceola tostay after and speak with her about attending UM after she graduates highschool.

“She looks like a ‘Cane to me,” Shalala said about Osceola.Shalala spoke to the council, including UM alum and Hollywood

Representative Max Osceola Jr., about some programs the universitywould like the tribe to sponsor. This included sponsorship of a breast can-cer program, an environmental program, an educational research programfocused on keeping people in school, and a $2.5 million grant for UM’sDiabetes Research Institute.

Reba Osceola rides horse Bay in the steer roping competition.Felix DoBosz

Suraiya Smith Graduateswith Bachelor’s Degree

(L-R) Grandmother Josephine Villa, graduate Suraiya Smith holdingson Kamani, and mother Grace Koontz.

Adelsa Williams

� See COUNCIL, page 3

By Adelsa Williams WASHINGTON, D.C. — Each

year the Native American JournalistsAssociation (NAJA) hosts a conference forall its members. NAJA, being one of fourassociations that make up the UNITYorganization, partook in this year’s UNITYJournalists of Color, Inc. convention,which is held every five years.

This event marks the third everUNITY convention. The first two conven-tions were held in Atlanta, Ga. in 1999 andGreen Bay, Wis. in 1994. This year,UNITY members gathered in the nation’scapital from August 4–8. Conveniently, thisis a presidential election year, and bothcandidates made a stop to speak at theUNITY conference.

UNITY 2004 held more full-daytraining sessions than any journalism con-vention. It also held a massive media andcareer expo that featured more than 400recruiters and exhibitors from across thecountry. Also, there were receptions andother social gatherings including golf tour-naments for the early arrivals, prior to thestart of the convention.

Each of the four national organi-zations that form UNITY, the AsianAmerican Journalists Association, theNational Association of Hispanic

Tribal Council Welcomes UMPresident, New Seminole Princess

Tiffany Doctor Memorial All Girl Rodeo

By Adelsa WilliamsFORT LAUDERDALE, FL — Tribal citizen Suraiya Smith,

Bird clan, proudly walked down the aisle to receive her bachelor’s degreeof business administration from the American Intercontinental University(AIU).

During the Commencement ceremony that was held at theBroward Convention Center on Saturday August 14, keynote SpeakerElaine Fitzgerald addressed the 2004 graduating class with a few words ofwisdom.

“Attitude is everything; with the right attitude you will go far,”she said, “Good things come to people who are willing to work hard.”

Originally from the Brighton reservation, Smith has recentlytaken an internship position in the Seminole Tribe’s housing department.Through the newly developed Professional Development and TrainingProgram, under the human resources department, Smith has received theproper guidance and placement into the start of her career. She is alsoanother advocate of the higher education program.

Smith commented that AIU is one of three schools she attendedprior to completing her degree, and found it to be the most comfortableexperience of all. She feels that some schools are overcrowded and stu-dents lose motivation because the environment is just not right for them.

“You have to find a school that’s right for you,” she said.Smith plans to learn more about other programs within the tribe

and eventually get into the marketing venue, specifically the culturalaspect.

“When people hear ‘Seminole Tribe,’ I want them to know that isnot only just about the casino,” said Smith.

By Judy WeeksIMMOKALEE — The Immokalee community turned out in

large numbers on Tuesday August 17 for an appreciation/birthday party forLiaison Elaine Aguilar. The gym was attractively decorated with purplebanquet tables, balloons, banners and beautiful floral centerpieces. BigCypress Council Representative David Cypress was glad to be the sponsorof this happy occasion.

Despite a week of planning, distribution of flyers and carefulpreparations, this surprise party was a well kept secret. Elaine had a morn-ing appointment in Fort Myers, which made it possible to put everythingtogether without her knowledge.

At noon everyone had gathered in the gym in anticipation of herarrival. A quick phone call located her 15 minutes away and preparing tostop for lunch. Her daughter, Sheila, told her that she did not have time.

“David and some men have been waiting here for over an hourregarding some projects. Hurry,” she told her mother.

When she pulled up to the tribal field office, which was empty,she was amazed to see all of the vehicles at the gym and went to investi-gate. As she opened the door she was greeted by a round of applause and achorus of happy birthday. The shocked look on her face was enough tosatisfy everyone that she was genuinely surprised.

Elaine was escorted to the table of honor by Amy Yzaguirre whowas acting as emcee. Along the way, she encountered her husband andchildren who all proudly hugged and congratulated her.

David Cypress took the microphone and wished her a happybirthday not only on his behalf, but also Chairman Mitchell Cypress andBoard Representative Paul Bowers, who regretted that they could not

� See ELAINE, page 8

Immokalee CelebratesElaine Aguilar’s Birthday

� See RODEO, page 12

(L-R) Iretta Tiger, Shelley Marmor, Felix DoBosz, Michael Kelly, Virginia Mitchell, DarlineBuster, Melissa Sherman, Adelsa Williams, Stephen Galla.

Nery Mejicano

NAJA at the UNITY 2004 Convention

� See NAJA, page 17

Dear Seminole Marketplace,I belong to a Sasha Doll Club

and we held a three-day festival in Ft.Lauderdale in Juneof 2004. I haveread Betty MaeJumper’s book“Legends of theSeminoles” and init is the legend ofthe Corn Lady. Atthe festival, I gaveaway a helper gift,“The Corn Lady”video, which I pur-chased at theSeminole market-place online, alongwith a few othergifts.

We wouldlike to thank BettyMae Jumperbecause the SashaFestival was a greatsuccess [Editor’snote: please see theletter below].

Sincerely,Laura Ramshead

Dear Bette Mae Jumper,

The Sasha festival was a hugesuccess! The ladies who put on the festi-val had made

Seminole outfits for the dolls.I had put together a folder on the

Corn Lady with a little story on you, andfrom the book “Legends of theSeminoles” a copy of the Corn Lady from

the book. I alsoincluded a cro-cheted pattern for aCorn Ladypotholder.

Thesewere donated onyour behalf alongwith the video“Legends of theSeminoles.” Thelady who won thevideo sent me anote for you toread [Editor’s note:please see the letterbelow]. I have thecassette tape and Iam enjoying it verymuch, especiallythe Corn Lady.

I justwanted to thankyou again from thebottom of myheart!

Sincerely,Laura

Ramshead

Hi Laura,I won the

wonderful tape ofSeminole stories,

and it was the one item I wanted. I was sohappy when I won and have reallyenjoyed it so much.

As a child I never went toFlorida, but I knew of the Seminole peo-ple. My Aunt Hazel would bring backpostcards with all the colorful cloths, andmy friend even had a doll. I have, for aslong as I can remember, wanted to meet aSeminole and that happened this year forall of us when we came to Florida. Thetape just means that I can have a part ofthat at home with me to see and enjoyanytime.

On the tape you can see children,both Seminole and non-Seminole. If I, asa child, had gone to Florida that couldhave been me with all those other chil-dren; what fun.Please pass on how much this tape of sto-ries means to me. I love the Corn Ladystory the best.

Thank you so much,Alexis

Dear Editor,Hi, I hope you can help me. I

was looking at the sofkee recipe on yourwebsite and I am a little confused it hasbaking soda in the recipe list, and in theinstructions it has to add teaspoon of bak-ing powder? Which one do you use?Thanks for your time

Have a great day,Cherie

Dear Cherie,You should use baking soda, not

baking powder.Sincerely,Seminole Marketplace

Dear Editor,I am the director of The

Kidzeum, a children’s museum inGrenada Elementary School, Grenada,Miss. We are preparing for an exhibitabout Seminoles, and have built a chickeehouse for our students to visit. I know thatchild will ask why it’s called a chickeehouse, and I can’t find the answer any-where. Can you help, please?

Thanks so much,Eloise Portera, DirectorThe KidzeumGrenada Elementary School

Dear Eloise,Chickee means house in the

Miccosukee language.Sincerely,Seminole Marketplace

The Seminole Tribune 2 September 3, 2004

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Contributors:Alexandra Frank, Emma Brown,

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Editor-in-Chief:Virginia Mitchell

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By Dr. Dean ChaversFor the past 30 years I have been worried about the lack

of lobbying on Capitol Hill by Indian people. I was so frustratedabout the lack of it that I ran for the National Indian EducationAssociation (NIEA) board twice, hoping NIEA would be the oneto get on the hill and push for legislation. NIEA still has not doneit.

So let me tell you how happy I am that there are at leasttwo Indian organizations that are actively lobbying on the hill.They are the National Indian Gaming Association (NIGA) andthe National Indian Impacted Schools Association (NIISA). Andwe need a lot more than this.

I got so frustrated at NIEA not doing it that some of us15 years ago created an organization solely devoted to lobbing onthe hill. It was called the Coalition for Indian Education. To makea long story short, after a few years, some people took over andran it into the ground.

But starting in 1990, I started trying to get a delegationof people on the hill every year. The first year, despite my pleasto a lot of people, I was the only person who showed up. As Iwent before the late Representative William Natcher’s Housingand Urban Development/Labor/Health and Human ServicesCommittee to testify, I asked one of the staffers who the onlyIndian presenting testimony would be. The room was full of peo-ple, but no Indians.

Not one single other Indian individual or organizationtestified before that committee that year. And it was a powerfulcommittee with many programs under it. I was really impressedwith the huge seals of the three departments on the wall behindNatcher. They were several feet tall.

Several years before I started trying to get an Indian del-egation on the hill, the National Congress on American Indians(NCAI) eliminated its education staff position in an internal powerstruggle. That position has never been restored. NationalTelecommunications Cooperative Association (NTCA) had justgone out of business. So for a decade and a half, NCAI, NIEA,and NTCA have not mounted a consistent lobbying effort on thehill. I went to one NCAI mid-year meeting 15 years ago, think-ing we were going on the hill. But instead we sat around in a hotelfor two days and listened to Indian leaders talk. What frustration!Here we are in Washington DC but we were avoiding the action,which is always on the hill.

I was also frustrated in trying to get people to go to DC.By about 1994 I had identified 2,700 people, my colleagues,whom I thought should be going to see their Senators andRepresentatives. I sent them all letters, and got 15 of them to go.Most of the 15 came from Adam Webster of Green Bay, Wis. whobrought a van full of people.

The next year I mailed letter to the same 2,700 peopleand got 17 to go. And we decided that Monday morning when wemet to plan strategy that we would ask all members of Congresswhat other Indians they had seen during the year. By the end ofthat week, we had found out of the 80 people we had met withthat only one had seen an Indian of any kind all year! By the way,our feet were killing us every day. When you go, wear tennisshoes. The marble halls of Congress are pure hell on feet.

No wonder they don’t understand what the problems arein Indian Country. We don’t tell them. No wonder they think allIndians are rich from gaming, when in fact it is less than 2 per-cent of Indians are well off from gaming. They have no idea ofwhat’s happening in Indian Country because they never hear fromus.

National Indian Impacted Schools Association (NIISA)has been lobbying regularly for years through its larger sisterorganization, the National Association of Federally ImpactedSchools (NAFIS). NAFIS is headed by John Forkenbrock, whois known as “Mr. Impact Aid.” NAFIS represents both the Indianimpact aid schools and the military impact aid schools.

NAFIS has two meetings a year in DC and NIISA hasits own meeting every summer as well. The NAFIS meetings will

have 200 or more Indian representatives present. They spend afull day on the hill talking directly to members of Congress. Dr.Richard Bordeaux of Todd County Schools in South Dakota is thepast president of both NAFIS and NIISA. I attended the NIISAsummer meeting in Reno, Nev. in June, and was again highlyimpressed with the caliber of this organization.

Brent Gish is the Executive Director of NIISA. He is alsothe Superintendent of the Mahnomen Public Schools inMinnesota, and I interviewed him later about the situation. Hetold me they started 15 years ago to lobby seriously. JohnForkenbrock told them that the only way to grow is to tell theirstory to Congress personally. He said the best lobbyist is an Indianschool board member.

When I asked Brent what worked best when lobbying,he said they have found that talking about successes really helps.Many members of Congress still do not know how Indian schoolshave to have impact aid just to operate. But giving them the hardfacts about the Indian child is their best resource.

They are now working to develop a profile of the typi-cal Indian child to present to Congress. Congressional membersdo not understand the poverty of Indian Country and how it affectseducation, how Indian students have to travel up to 70 miles oneway to get to school, and so on. Bryan Jernigan, the communica-tions director for NAFIS, is working on this profile, which origi-nated in a committee.

Terry Smith, the representative from Wapato, Wash., whoalso runs the NIISA meeting, said it really helps to know yourCongressional representative personally. The NIISA representa-tives have no trouble getting in to see their Congressional repre-sentative, according to both Terry and Brent. One of the frustra-tions we had when I was leading delegations to the hill was thatwe rarely got to meet with the actual representative. We usuallygot to meet with some staffer. But superintendents are important,so they know their representative on a first name basis.

Brent is a longtime NIISA member. He has been super-intendent at Mahnomen for 13 years, and has been in the districtfor 31 years. He is a graduate of Mahnomen High School. Andhis grandmother’s sister was superintendent of the district in the1930s, after she was graduated high school in 1923. So he recog-nizes the importance of the program, and the support from thepresident for it. The White House usually does not include impactaid in its budget, he said, but President Bush has put it into hisbudget. This means the Congressional representatives who han-dle impact aid do not have to fight to get in put back in each year.

NIGA and NCAI sometimes join NIISA in lobbying,Brent says, but he is not aware that NIEA ever does. And the trib-al offices in DC do not join them. He said we are still so frag-mented in Indian Country. We need a united front. The No ChildLeft Behind Act has put an additional burden on Indian land dis-tricts, he says. There is no immediate threat to impact aid now,but they need to get inflationary increases and an Indian landssupplemental as the military recently got. But the main battles,which they have never won, are to get the program fully fundedand to get it forward funded.

I am so glad that both NIISA and NIGA are on the hillon a regular basis. I just wish the other organizations-NCAI,NIEA, intertribals, and tribal offices-would join in and see thevalue of lobbying. And we need to have our own travel agency,to bring members of Congress out to Indian Country. We have asmall cohort of members who look out for Indian interests-Inouye,Hayworth, Kildee, Nighthorse Campbell, Bingaman, and so on.But Indians do not make it onto the agenda of at least 500 of the535 members in a given year.

If Indian Country ever gets into trouble again, such asthe termination movement of the 1950s and 1960s, it will bebecause of the ignorance of the members about Indian affairs. Ihope someday we will have a major impact on the hill year round.

© Copyright, 2004. The opinions expressed here are Dr.Dean Chavers’, and do not necessarialy reflect the opinions ofThe Seminole Tribune or the Seminole Tribe of Florida.

Lobbying Is A Must

By Iretta TigerHOLLYWOOD — With so many people to

take care of and so many businesses to manage it’shard for the tribe to remember everything. Perhapsbecause it’s a tree, most of us forget that the counciloak needs our help from time to time.

Jim Allen, CEO of Gaming Operations, rec-ognizes the importance of the council oak and hastaken a personal interest in the welfare of the tree.

“It started with mowing the lawn around itand making it look a little more presentable” saidAllen “Then we started to notice that the tree was

getting a little bit sickly, it didn’t look healthy so we,in the casino division, just took the initiative to havesomebody come in and have an evaluation of thetree.”

The diagnosis was not bad at all, it onlyneeded two procedures: pruning and shooting fertiliz-er into the ground. With both procedures done the

council oak is now on a regular maintenance sched-ule.

Allen has landscapers Vila and Son check iton a monthly basis. Vila and Son also maintain thelandscaping for the Hollywood Seminole Hard RockHotel.

However, the improvements for the counciloak do not end there. Plans for the beautificationaround the council oak have been approved by thecouncil and should begin in September 2004. Theseplans include benches, flowers and other landscapingand irrigation for the council oak and landscaping.

Long termcare is also being con-sidered, funding for theupkeep of the oak andits surroundings will beincorporated into thecasino’s budget startingwith the new fiscalyear.

For those whoare not familiar withthe history of theSeminole tribe, this isthe famed council oakthat the restaurantCouncil Oak in theSeminole Hard RockHotel & Casino isnamed after.

The historyand significance of thecouncil oak is some-thing Allen plans toincorporate into the

restaurant. Even at the site of the tree a plaque will beplaced near its base telling the importance of this treeto the Seminole tribe.

Thank you Jim Allen, for both your compas-sion and for acting on that compassion. Everythingyou are doing is greatly appreciated.

Submitted by Gary BitnerBIG CYPRESS — An all-new swamp crit-

ter show is on tap for visitors to Billie Swamp Safari,the Seminole Tribe’s popular tourist attraction in BigCypress. The new show combines entertainment andeducation and includes several of the most interestinganimals found on the reservation. The Seminoles treatthe land with reverence and work hard to preserve thenatural environment. As a result, the wonders of theFlorida Everglades continue to bring joy to visitorsfrom around the world.

The Swamp Critter Show is scheduled dailyat 1:15 p.m. and costs $8 for adults and $4 for chil-dren. Among the animals featured in the 45 minuteshow are the armadillo, skunk, opossum, ferret,southern razorback hog and Florida white-tailed deer,as well as non-venomous snakes such as the baldpython and red rat snake. Birds of prey are also fea-tured, including owls and red-tailed hawks, as aretarantulas and scorpions. Shows will vary based onthe availability of animals and their trainers.

In addition to the Swamp Critter Show,swamp buggy eco-tours and airboat rides operatedaily. Visitors can travel high above the wet prairieedge of Florida’s Everglades or glide effortlesslyalong an airboat trail. A separate venomous snake andalligator presentation is also scheduled to take placedaily. True adventurers can stay overnight in a tradi-tional Seminole chickee surrounded by more than2,200 acres of abundant native wildlife. Visitors wit-ness first-hand the ecosystem of a land on the edge ofcivilization and the solitary beauty of tropical hard-wood hammocks, cypress domes, airplants and gumsloughs. They marvel at wildlife, from the rare pan-ther to alligators and crocodiles, deer, antelope, bison,and southern razorback hogs.

In the maincompound area, visitorscan enjoy an authenticSeminole village withmany native Seminolechickees, a nature trail,animal and birdexhibits, including aherpetarium, an alliga-tor pit, a council house,restaurant and giftshop. The gift shop isopen from 8:30 a.m.–6p.m. and is filled withnative arts, crafts,clothing, jewelry andsouvenirs. The SwampWater Café servesAmerican fare andSeminole delicaciessuch as catfish, froglegs, gator tail nuggets,and traditionalSeminole fry bread. Itis open from 7:30a.m.–6 p.m.

Billie SwampSafari is open year‘round exceptChristmas Day.Admission is free andvisitors are welcome tostroll the grounds and enjoy many of the displayswithout charge. Tickets for the Swamp Critter Show,airboat rides, swamp buggy eco-tours and alligatorand snake educational show can be purchased indi-vidually or as a day package at the gift shop.

The airboat rides operate every half hourfrom 10:30 a.m.–4 p.m. The price is $12. NarratedSwamp Buggy Eco-Tours operate from 11 a.m.–5p.m. The price is $20 for adults, $18 for seniors age61 or over, and $10 for children ages 4–12. The 45-minute Alligator and Snake Educational Show is

scheduled periodically throughout the day. The priceis $8 for adults and $4 for children ages 4–12.Children up to age three are always free with a paidadult.

Day packages are also available for purchaseat the gift shop. Visitors should arrive no later than 2p.m. to enjoy each of the rides. The price is $38 foradults, $36 for seniors age 61 or over, and $24 forchildren ages 4–12. Children up to age three are freewith a paid adult. In addition, AAA members are eli-gible for a 10 percent discount, and discounted ratesare available for groups of 15 or more.

A rustic camping village at Billie SwampSafari includes native-style chickees for overnightstays. The overnight safaris run from noon to noonand include two swamp buggy eco-tours, one duringthe day and one during the evening, the alligator andsnake educational show, campfire storytelling, chick-ee lodging and an airboat ride. For more informationor reservations, call (800) 949-6101 or (863) 983-6101 or visit www.seminoletours.com on the Internet.

The BigCypress Campgroundoffers RV sites, tentsites and air condi-tioned cabins. Formore information, call(800) 437-4102 or(863) 983-1330.

On the road toBillie Swamp Safari isthe Ah-Tah-Thi-KiMuseum–the nation’slargest display of thelife and culture of theFlorida Seminoles. Themuseum includes5,000 square feet ofexhibits in a modernmuseum adjacent to acypress dome near theFlorida Everglades.Visitors enjoy lifelikedisplays of howSeminoles lived in the1800s, along with rareartifacts. Part of theSeminole collection onloan from theSmithsonian is featuredat the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki

Museum, including moccasins, leggings, turtle shellrattles, silverwork, beaded sashes, and medicine bas-kets. The museum also has exhibits of its own hold-ings, including southeastern beaded shoulder bagsand Seminole patchwork clothing.

The exhibit gallery includes user-friendlycomputers where visitors can find more informationon the Seminole Tribe’s rich history and culture. Inaddition to the informative exhibits, the Museum fea-tures a Legends Theater that presents the traditionalbeliefs and legends of the Seminoles in a camp-likesetting.

Topics include: transportation, economy:,history, rare artifacts, living village, spiritual beliefs,gift shop, and nature trail.

The Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum is open dailyexcept Monday and holidays from 9 a.m.–5 p.m.Admission is $6 for adults and $3 for children up toage six. For more information, call (863) 902-1113.

Billie Swamp Safari and the Ah-Tah-Thi-KiMuseum are located on the Big Cypress SeminoleReservation, midway between Fort Lauderdale andNaples off I-75 (Alligator Alley). Take I-75 to exit49, then drive north 19 miles. Sho-naa-bish!(Thanks!)

Billie Swamp Safari Debuts New‘Swamp Critter Show’

Swamp safari also features airboat rides, swamp buggytours, eco-tours, Seminole culture and much more!

Ray Becerra (right) educates visitors about birds of prey.Debi Lee

Yusday Martinez (right) holds one of the animals from the new critter show.Debi Lee

Gus “One Bear” Batista has his hands full with baby gators.Debi Lee

The Seminole Tribune 3 September 3, 2004

The site plan for what the council oak and its surrounding area will look like.Courtesy of Jim Allen

Big Plans for Historic Council Oak

The council oak tree as it appears today, thanks to some help from Jim Allen.Felix DoBosz

“Each one of them speaks to issues that per-tain to the Seminole people,” she said.

After telling the council that NativeAmericans are two-and-a-half times more likely tocontract diabetes, Shalala reminded them that findingout more about the disease will have secondaryrewards.

“[The research aims] to save lives,” she said.“But more importantly to save heartache.”

Tribal Treasurer Mike Tiger thanked Shalalafor coming, and said the tribe is “looking forward toworking closely with UM in the future.” MaxOsceola Jr. also thanked Shalala, and said the councilwill discuss sponsoring these programs in the future.

Executive Administrator Ken Fields thenwent over the 10 item consent agenda, and the coun-cil unanimously approved the items. Fields thencalled Education Director Louise Gopher up to speakon a resolution that will honor the late Billy Cypress.

This resolution, which passed unanimously,changed the name of the Higher EducationScholarship Program to the Billy L. CypressScholarship Program. This change is fitting, accord-ing to Cypress’s widow Carol Cypress since “he real-ly did love learning.”

Chairman Mitchell Cypress said the tribewill also honor Cypress at the Veteran’s Day celebra-tion in Big Cypress next month.

The next resolution dealt with allowing trib-al citizens to enter residential treatment programs, ifthe treatment they need is not provided by the familyservices department. Family Services Director CrissieCarter spoke on this resolution and the council unani-mously approved it.

Director of Law Enforcement Mike Floydinformed the council on the next resolution. Thisdealt with expanding voluntary cooperation betweenlaw enforcement agencies. The resolution passedunanimously, and Seminole law enforcement can nowshare applicable information with surrounding arealaw enforcement agencies.

Fields then informed the council that theSeminole police department and the aviation depart-ment located the pilot, John Kagan, who crashed hisHughes 500 helicopter in Big Cypress on ThursdayAugust 19. He commended those who were pivotal inKagan’s rescue.

One of the final resolutions the councilvoted on was a sponsorship agreement withWinterfest, Inc., the company that puts on the annualWinterfest Boat Parade. The council approved thissponsorship unanimously, and now the SeminoleHard Rock Hotel & Casino’s logo will be featured onall advertisement for the boat parade, and all radioads will mention the Hard Rock.

This sponsorship agreement will last fiveyears, beginning with this year’s boat parade inDecember going all the way through to the 2008Winterfest Boat Parade.

�CouncilContinued from page 1

The Seminole Tribune 4 September 3, 2004

By Shelley MarmorIn case you haven’t heard already, the

Seminole Tribe is presenting the AfachkekeFestival at the Big Cypress Seminole reservationrodeo arena. The festival will take place onSaturday, September 4, from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.,Labor Day weekend.

The idea for the festival came from BigCypress Tribal Councilman David Cypress.However, after the recent tragedy caused byHurricane Charley on Florida’s west coast, theAfachkeke Festival will now join the many effortsto provide relief to the victims.

Visitors are encouraged to visit the“Hurricane Charley RecoveryFund—Neighbors HelpingNeighbors” table, setup onsite at the festi-val. Representativesfrom the tribe’sdepartment ofemergencyservices willbe collectingdonations. Allthe moneywill be split50/50between theRed Cross and theSalvation Army forthose in the hardest hitcounties (Lee, Collier,Charlotte, Glades, Hendry, and DeSoto). Althoughthe Afachkeke Festival is a free event, ChairmanMitchell Cypress and David Cypress encouragedonations.

Afachkeke is the Miccosukee word mean-ing “a happy day.” The festival got its name fromSeminole tribal citizen Mary Tigertail because shethought it would best describe the event.

The Afachkeke Festival is a family affairand will feature a children’s village. While at thevillage, youngsters can jump around in the bouncehouse, get their faces painted by a clown, and evenenjoy some popcorn and a snow cone. The adultswill not be left out in the food departmenteither–vendors will be onsite selling Seminole cui-sine.

Gates at the festival will open at 10 a.m.The Seminole Color Guard, consisting of PaulBowers, Stephen Bowers, Mitchell Cypress andCharles Hiers Billie, will appear shortly after at 11a.m. Tribal citizen Jessica Buster will follow theColor Guard with the singing of the nationalanthem. Brian Zepeda, Operations Director at theAh-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum, will emcee the festival.

There will be lots of music to enjoy. Thefirst of five bands will be Smoken. They will takethe stage for a 30 minute set beginning at 11:30a.m.

Smoken features Hollywood tribalemployee Vinnie Fontana on the bass guitar.Fontana said they will do mostly cover songs atAfachkeke, playing tunes from artists includingJanis Joplin and Trick Pony. The band also has twoCDs out, so pay close attention for original materi-al.

Tribal citizen Paul Buster his CowboneBand will follow Smoken for a 30 minute set.

Jesse & Noah take the stage at 1:30 p.m.,and will play for 45 minutes. They are the sons ofthe David Bellamy, one half of the BellamyBrothers, which will perform immediately follow-ing Jesse & Noah’s performance.

DavidBellamy and his

brotherHowardBellamy, bet-ter known asthe BellamyBrothers, will

take the stage at2:45 p.m. and play for90 minutes. TheBellamy Brothers areco-headlining the fes-tival along with JohnAnderson.

These twohave been making music for more than twodecades, and will no doubt play some of the hitsthey are known for, including “Let Your LoveFlow” and “For All the Wrong Reasons.” TheBellamy Brothers are the most nominated duo incountry music today, so they definitely know howto entertain a crowd.

The final musical event at the AfachkekeFestival is co-headliner John Anderson, who willappear on stage at 4:45 p.m. and play until the fes-tival’s close at 6 p.m. He is a country music legendwith more than 20 albums to his credit and morethan 30 songs that have made the Billboard top 20chart.

With so many hit songs, Anderson willhave a hard time picking and choosing which onesto play. One song that will likely make the cut is“Seminole Wind,” a songs the brought the housedown at the grand opening of the Tampa SeminoleHard Rock Hotel & Casino in March.

Directions: From Naples or FortLauderdale take 1-75 to Exit 49, then 16 milesnorth on Snake Road (County Road 833), FromFort Myers take State Road 80 east throughLaBelle to 833 south through the Big CypressReservation, Rodeo grounds on right (west) side ofroad. From Lake Okeechobee take SR 27 south to80 west three miles to 833. For further informa-tion, please call (561) 308-0101. Also visit ourwebsite for a printable mapwww.seminoletribe.com/afachkeke.

John Anderson BellamyBrothers

Jesse & Noah Bellamy

Cowbone Band Smoken

FREE ADMISSION TO

SATURday, September4

10 a.m. - 6 p.m.Big Cypress Rodeo

John Anderson Bellamy Brothers

The Seminole Tribe of Florida Presents

Ahfachkeke M usicFestival

Labor Day W eekend

10 a.m. - Gates Open11 a.m. - Seminole Color Guard

11:30 a.m. - Smoken12:30 p.m. - Cowbone Band

1:30 p.m. - Jesse & Noah Bellamy2:45 p.m. - Bellamy Brothers4:45 p.m. - John Anderson

Children’s Village

• Bounce House

• Slide

• Snow Cones

• Popcorn

• Clown

• Picture Taking

• Fun Fun Fun!

Celebrate Labor Day atAfachkeke Festival

Tribe Supports Hurricane Charley Recovery Fund

SUPPORT HURRICANE CHARLEY VICTIMS BY MAKINGA CASH DONATION AT THE BENEFIT

Free parking. No alcoholic beverages or coolers allowed, not responsible for lost or damaged property. Directions:From Naples or Ft. Lauderdale take I-75 to EXIT 49, then 16 miles north on Snake Road (County Road 833).

By Adelsa WilliamsHOLLYWOOD — Following the Ultimate

Warrior Challenge trip to Snake River, Idaho in June,The Boys and Girls Club gathered for a luncheonheld on the Hollywood reservation at June Tiger’sproperty.

Boys & Girls Club member and warriorexperience traveler, Robert North Jr., opened theevent with prayer.

Herbert Jim, Seminole preschool languageinstructor and Coordinator Robert North Sr. conduct-ed a series of questions for the youth regarding theirlearned experiences during their traditional and spiri-tual adventure.

North started by explaining the differentkind of activities the group encountered while on thetrip. The group camped each night and had all provi-sions and drew upon ancestry on how to live off theland.

For young warrior Catlin Jim, it was excit-ing since it was his first time riding in an airplanewhile Damon “Leon” Pewo said that he was scared to“fall in” while rafting the Snake River.

During the rafting experience, the youthlearned about teamwork. Everyone took turns playingcaptain while on the paddle boat. This required theteam to trust the captain’s command for proper steer-ing of the paddle boat while rafting on the roughrapids.

Besides rafting, the youth seemed enthusias-tic sharing their fishing experiences. After catching afish, the youth learned how to cut and clean a fish.

“It was only gross when the tail was stillmoving,” said Damon “Leon” Pewo.

Herbert Jim asked the youth how they feltabout the spiritual aspect of the trip and beingexposed to the ancestral Nez Perce people’s sacredlands.

“Tense and emotional,” said Robert North Jr.“I felt like something was watching us all

the time,” said Catlin Jim.Robert North Sr. asked this final question to

the youth; what is a warrior?“Someone who accepts challenges,”

answered Neko Osceola.Catlin Jim said, “A warrior is a person that’s

not afraid and fights within the heart, has a goodsoul, helps others, is emotional, and has love.”

Herbert Jim added that a warrior is someonewho is full of understanding of their native traditionalways.

“We [Seminoles] are warriors because weare passed down from our ancient wars, and today weare here because of our soldiers,” said Herbert Jim,“If an elder has something to say, listen, because theyare trying to tell you something, you just don’t under-stand it yet, but later in life you will find a place touse these teachings.”

Hollywood Councilman Max Osceola Jr.attended the luncheon to congratulate the youth andshared a couple of words of wisdom as well.

“Congratulations, you did something onyour own, even though you had people with you,”said Osceola, “We can tell you how to do it, but nowyou saw how everything is done.”

“You are all warriors, you have strength, andwe want to show you that you can get high withoutusing drugs or alcohol, high on life. When you’restrong, you make your family strong and you canmake the tribe strong.”

Osceola encouraged the students to pass theword to their friends and advise on any other chal-lenges they can come up with.

“You are tomorrow, we want to prepare youfor that, so you can make the right choices,” conclud-ed Osceola.

For anyone wishing to donateitems to the victims of HurricaneCharley, you may bring your items tothe following donations areas:Hollywood: Seminole PoliceDepartment, Tribal Office Building,LobbyBig Cypress: Seminole Tribe FireRescueBrighton: Seminole Tribe Fire RescueImmokalee: Go to Big Cypress orBrighton AreaTampa: Seminole Police Department

Most requested items are:Tarps, baby care items, toothpaste,toothbrushes, pet and live stock food,paper products, charcoal and canopeners. Only non-perishable itemsplease.

For additional information,please contact department of emer-gency services at (863) 983-2150.

(L-R) Thommy Doud, Robert North Sr., Catherine Jumper, Amber Giehtbrock, Angie Margotta, Damon“Leon” Pewo, Robert North Jr., Herbert Jim, Catlin Jim, Max Osceola Jr., and Neko Osceola (front).

Adelsa Williams

Hollywood Council Representative Max Osceola Jr. addresses the youth.Adelsa Williams

The Seminole Tribune 5 September 3, 2004

Donations for Hurricane Charley Victims

Boys & Girls Club DiscussUltimate Warrior Experience

NOAA / wunderground.com

ImmokaleeImmokalee High School

Big CypressFamily Investment Center

Community Center

HollywoodDSO Building

BrightonPre-School

BrightonSenior Center

Hurricane Evacuation Shelters

Assemble your Disaster Supply Kit.These items are often scattered around your homeand simply need to be brought together into onelocation.

o Water - at least 1 gallon daily per person for 3 to7 days

o Food - at least enough for 3 to 7 days— non-perishable packaged or canned food /

juices— foods for infants or the elderly— snack foods— non-electric can opener— cooking tools / fuel— paper plates / plastic utensils

o Blankets / Pillows, etc.

o Clothing - seasonal / rain gear/ sturdy shoes

o First Aid Kit / Medicines / Prescription Drugs

o Special Items - for babies and the elderly

o Toiletries / Hygiene items / Moisture wipes

o Flashlight / Batteries

o Radio - Battery operated and NOAA weatherradio

o Cash - Banks and ATMs may not be open oravailable for extended periods.

o Keys

o Toys, Books and Games

o Important documents - in a waterproof container— insurance, medical records, bank account

numbers, Social Security card, etc.

o Tools - keep a set with you during the storm

o Vehicle fuel tanks filled

o Pet care items— proper identification / immunization records /

medications— ample supply of food and water— a carrier or cage— muzzle and leash

Write out your Family Disaster Plan.Discuss the possible hazards with your family.Determine if you are in an evacuation area. Identifyan out-of-town family contact.

o Discuss the type of hazards that could affectyour family. Know your home's vulnerability tostorm surge, flooding and wind.

o Locate a safe room or the safest areas in yourhome for each hurricane hazard. In certain cir-cumstances the safest areas may not be yourhome but within your community.

o Determine escape routes from your home andplaces to meet. These should be measured intens of miles rather than hundreds of miles.

o Have an out-of-state friend as a family contact,so all your family members have a single pointof contact.

o Make a plan now for what to do with your pets ifyou need to evacuate.

o Post emergency telephone numbers by yourphones and make sure your children know howand when to call 911.

o Check your insurance coverage - flood damageis not usually covered by homeowners insur-ance.

o Stock non-perishable emergency supplies and aDisaster Supply Kit.

o Use a NOAA weather radio. Remember toreplace its battery every 6 months, as you dowith your smoke detectors.

o Take First Aid, CPR and disaster preparednessclasses.

Check your Disaster Supply Kit.Make sure nothing is missing. Determine if there isanything you need to supplement your kit.Replenish your water.

Activate your Family Disaster Plan.Protective measures should be initiated, especiallythose actions that require extra time (for example,securing a boat or leaving a barrier island).

Ready your Disaster Supply Kit for use.If you need to evacuate, you should bring yourSupply Kit with you.

Use your Family Disaster Plan.Your family should be in the process of completingprotective actions and deciding the safest locationto be during the storm.

When a Hurricane Warning is issued YOU SHOULD:

When a Hurricane Watch is issued YOU SHOULD:

Before Hurricane Season Starts YOU SHOULD:

Helpful Internet Websites:National Hurricane Center

http://www.nhc.noaa.gov

Federal Emergency Management Agencyhttp://www.fema.gov

American Red Crosshttp://www.americanredcross.org

The Seminole Tribune 6 September 3, 2004

By Adelsa Williams HOLLYWOOD — The real

estate services department is located inthe first floor of the Seminole Tribeheadquarters in Hollywood and is com-posed of three employees.

The department’s main func-tion is to assist everyone who intendsto use or occupy tribal land for busi-ness or residential purposes. Theprocess begins with an application toobtain a permit, lease or other form oflegal authorization.

The department is responsiblefor the progress of these applicationsthrough development review, land usecommission, presentation before theTribal Council for approval and ratifi-cation by the Bureau of Indian Affairs.The department also arranges for aboundary survey of the subject proper-ty as required.

Real estate services is fre-quently called upon by the TribalCouncil to evaluate real estate matters,mediate boundary or other land use disputes, and pro-vide recommendations. On occasion, individual tribalmembers request advice regarding personal familyreal estate matters and Real Estate Services is pre-pared to assist them.

Department Director Fred Hopkins said, “Ifit’s real estate related, call or come by and our staffwill by happy to assist.”

You may contact the real estate servicesdepartment at (954) 966-6300, direct (954) 967-3400,or by fax (954) 967-3497.

Meet the Real Estate Department Staff

Real estate employees: (L-R) Jennifer Kolakowski, Director FredHopkins and Dawna Bowman.

Adelsa Williams

Boys & Girls Club ofthe Seminole Tribe of

Florida EssayContest

Subject: “What Veteran’s Day Means to Me”Entries must be received by September 24 and

turned in to the chairman’s office inHollywood.

The winners will be asked toread their essay at theVeteran’s Day celebration atthe Big Cypress entertain-ment complex on November9.

Winners and winningessays will also appearin The SeminoleTribune.Please call (954) 967-

3900 with any ques-tions.

Celebrate Grandparent’s

Day On September 12Sunday, September 12, is National

Grandparent’s Day. It is a day to honor andremember our grandparents, to give grandparentsan opportunity to show love for their children’schildren, and to help children become aware ofthe strength, information and guidance olderpeople can offer.

By Michael KellyHOLLYWOOD — For those employees

yearning for additional parking spaces at the maintribal office, your wish has come true–at least tem-

porarily. An additional parking areahas been added at the south side ofthe parking lot.

“We’ll be adding about 30temporary parking spaces, whichwill be used primarily for the serv-ice vehicles,” said Building andGrounds Assistant Manager AlexAdams.

This will include fieldvehicles, buses, trucks, vans, andtrailers.

Hollywood CouncilRepresentative Max Osceola Jr.,approved the use of the vacant lot,located on 40th Street. This shouldalleviate the parking situation untilhome construction begins in thenear future.

Future plans are in theworks to add permanent parkingspaces along the service road locat-ed near the Stirling Road under-pass.

Tribal Office Adds Temporary Parking

Building and grounds employee breaks through cement on thesouth side of the lot, clearing the way for additional parking.

Felix DoBosz

By Tom GallaherBIG CYPRESS — Tour guides

Sarah Kirkland and Chris McHaney, alongwith Museum Director David Blackard gaveabout 50 United Southern and Eastern Tribes(USET) delegates a tour of the Ah-Tah-Thi-KiMuseum. The delegates ventured across theEverglades during the semi-annual USETmeeting held at the Hollywood SeminoleHard Rock Hotel & Casino, June 14–17.

Delegates from many of the 24USET member tribes saw the five-screen filmentitled “We Seminoles” and toured theexhibit gallery. Some also walked the naturetrail and visited the new curatorial museum.

“They loved the museum display,”said Curator of Education Mornin Osceola.“Some didn’t go to visit the nature trail, butthe ones who did go on the boardwalk reallyenjoyed it.”

The purpose of the USET meetingwas “to strengthen relationships between thetribes and the agencies and organizations withwhich they interact daily by inviting represen-tatives of those agencies and organizations toprovide valuable information to the board andmembers,” according to a press release.

The attendees also enjoyed the beau-tiful surroundings and the hospitality of theSeminoles during their field trip to the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum and Big Cypress reserva-tion.

(L-R) Juan Torrer, Cesar Arciero and Chris McHaneyput out the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum welcome sign forUSET delegates during their semi-annual meeting heldJune 14–17.

Tom Andrew

Delegates Enjoy Ah-Tah-Thi-KiMuseum During USET Conference By Iretta Tiger

HOLLYWOOD — Seminole artist EricaDeitz is starting a new chapter in her life. Deitz, herhusband Bruce and their two children recently movedto Idaho. Deitz is the daughter of Robert andJosephine North and Bruce Deitz is the son of the lateRuby Deitz.

The Hollywood reservation has been theirhome for many years. The move to Idaho is not doneon a whim; the Dietz’s have been planning this forseveral years and have been house hunting.

Deitz also hopes that the change of scenerywill bring new inspiration to her art work. Her cre-ations have received numerous awards not only with-in the tribe but internationally. The move will alsoallow her to dedicate more time to her art and toexplore into other art mediums. She especially looksforward to delving into jewelry making.

Before moving, Deitz was the material/artistdeveloper for the Seminole preschool languagedepartment where she created educational materialspecially developed for Seminole children. She willcontinue to work with the tribe on a consultationbasis.

Deitz looks forward to the change in seasonsbut most of all she said she wants to “use this [move]to prove myself, and not rely on the tribe.”

Deitz and her family are not moving toanother reservation but they do have family nearby.Dietz's father-in-law lives nearby and did the finalwalk through of their new home.

Deitz has been teased about moving; mostpeople tell her that she’ll be back, but to this tribalcitizen, it’s wonderful that they’re experiencing lifeoutside of Florida and not a reservation. Good luck tothe Deitz family!

Seminoles Starting a New Life in Idaho

By Michael KellyBIG CYPRESS — Alligators, snakes, birds

of prey, and various lizards are just some of the“clients” Jonathan Vazquez and Ray Becerra workwith on a daily basis at the Billie Swamp Safari andEverglades Eco-Tours in Big Cypress. And eventhough these skilled professionals know that onewrong move could be fatal, they thoroughly enjoytheir jobs.

Vazquez, operations manager at BillieSwamp Safari and Ray Becerra, general falconer,have the dubious honor of handling South Florida’smost dangerousanimals.

Withyears of experi-ence, they bothdisplay a coolconfidentdemeanor, evenwhen dealingwith 10-foot alli-gators and ven-omous snakes.Vazquez, whospecializes inalligatorwrestling, andappears on thecover of theBillie SwampSafari brochure,has been inter-ested in reptilessince age four.

“Myfather loves rep-tiles,” said Vazquez. “No doubt that rubbed off onme.”

According to Vazquez, nearly all the touriststhat visit the Billie Swamp Safari come to see thealligators. But even though alligators take up a major-ity of his day, snakes are his first passion.

Not surprisingly, on his free time, Vazquezenjoys tracking down the slithery creatures, travelingfrom the barren deserts of Arizona to the hot andhumid climate of Costa Rica.

“I consider it fun research,” said Vazquez. “I

enjoy finding snakes, taking photos and handlingthem.”

Vazquez also looks for abnormalities in thevarious species to make sure they’re healthy.

Ray Becerra takes pride in educating visitorsfrom all over the world about the birds of prey foundin Big Cypress. Birds of prey, or raptors, are birdswith keen eyesight, strong curved beaks and longcurved strong talons. Like Vazquez, Becerra is a reg-istered class one, two and three state licensed handler,which allows him to demonstrate these beautiful ani-mals throughout the state of Florida and U.S.

“I havea lot of respectfor the animalsthat I handle,”said Becerra. “Ilove what I do.”

Becerraalso spends timewith a fellownature enthusi-ast, Manny Puig.Originally fromCuba, Puig hasthe unbelievableability to con-nect with alltypes of ani-mals, includingsharks and alli-gators.

“I’mgood friendswith him,” saidBecerra. “Iwould like to

invite him to visit the reservation.”Becerra, who has worked for the tribe for

the past seven years and lives in Big Cypress, con-ducts shows anywhere he is asked. "I've done televi-sion programs, and lot of other places in the U.S.

Between the both of them, Vazquez andBecerra have nearly 30 years on experience com-bined. And whether they're educating people aboutalligators, panthers, or poisonous rattlesnakes, visitorsat the Billie Swamp Safari can relax, knowing they’rein good hands.

Think Your Job is Dangerous? Just AskJonathan Vazquez and Ray Becerra

Ray Becerra holds a falcon, one of the birds of prey on display atBillie Swamp Safari.

Felix DoBosz

Labor Day Singing

On Sunday September 5, First SeminoleBaptist Church will hold a Labor Day singingevent. Dinner starts at 5:30 p.m., and singingbegins at 7:00 p.m.

For more information, please call VivianDelgado at (954) 444-2954, or the First SeminoleBaptist Church at (954) 585-0400, fax at (954)585-0311.

Dolphins Football Season is HereHollywood community members may get their name on the Miami Dolphins ticket list. For

more information, contact Robin Osceola at (954) 214-0155

Sunday September 12, DOLPHINS VS TITANS, 1 p.m.

Sunday September 26,DOLPHINS VS STEELERS, 1 p.m.

Sunday October 3, DOLPHINS VS JETS, 4:15 p.m.

Sunday October 24, DOLPHINS VS RAMS, 1 p.m.

Sunday November 7, DOLPHINS VS CARDINALS, 1 p.m.

Sunday December 5, DOLPHINS VS BILLS, 1 p.m.

Sunday December 20, DOLPHINS VS PATRIOTS, 9 p.m.

Sunday December 26, DOLPHINS VS BROWNS, 8:30 p.m.

The Seminole Tribune 7 September 3, 2004

By Shelley MarmorHOLLYWOOD — On

Thursday August 12, eight seniorsmet at the Senior Center to learnhealthy eating tips from ShannonMcKeown, tribal health educator,and have some fun playing a fewgames of bingo.

McKeown showed the sen-iors about 10 transparencies on theoverhead projector that coveredseveral health-related topics. Thetopics included: old NativeAmerican diets versus present daydiets, factors contributing to death,good foods to eat and added sugarsin the typical U.S. diet.

Only a few decades ago,McKeown said the NativeAmerican diet consisted of less fatand more fiber. She also added thatduring that time people exercisedmuch more. These two changeshave caused many health problemson the reservations, according toMcKeown.

She also discussed diabetes, possibly themost significant health-related problem facing Native

Americans. McKeown informed the seniors thatlifestyle choices–including diet, exercise and stresslevel–account for 51 percent of the reason behindpeople developing diabetes. Therefore, she said it canbe prevented more often than not.

“You have the control to make the choice toget or not get a disease like diabetes,” McKeownsaid. “I’m here to tell you you’re not destined to getdiabetes.”

McKeown informed the seniors of whatfoods will help them stay healthy; including carrots,spinach, beans, soy foods, salmon and other coldwater fish and whole citrus fruits, to name a few. Shesaid it is helpful not to think of eating healthy as adiet, which implies that there is a dietary restriction.McKeown said people should not focus on what theycan’t eat and focus on what they can.

After going through all her informationaltransparencies, McKeown began the “Healthier YouBingo” game. This bingo game, however, was not thetypical game because there was a lot more thinkinginvolved.

Once one of the players had one of the bingonumbers McKeown picked out they also had toanswer a question about the nutritional presentationthey just saw to earn the stamp on their bingo card.

The three winners for bingo were: first placeMaggie Osceola, second place Mary Gay Osceolaand David Jumper in third. Each person won a giftbasket with healthy food items including, bananas,grapes, plums, soy protein bars, whole grain cerealand green tea.

By: Emma BrownTAMPA — The Ninth Annual Brighton

Youth Conference was held at the Tampa SeminoleHard Rock Hotel & Casino from Sunday August1–Thursday August 5. The conference began onSunday evening with a dinner and opening cere-monies.

During the opening ceremonies there was a

dedication to Dawn Snow Fertitta, who the Brightoncommunity sadly lost last year. Fertitta was a veryinvolved member of the youth conference and thisyear’s conference was dedicated in her memory.

Each day began at 6 a.m. with fitness hourfor the energetic early birds. On the first morning ofthe conference, Light Foot, a Native American actorand spokesperson, spoke with the entire group anddelivered an eye opening message to the parents andchildren.

Light Foot spoke about the importance ofbeing in touch with your creator and about the impor-

tance of prayer. Following breakfasteach morning, all participants report-ed to class to begin the day.

There were many differentdepartments from within the tribethat were conducting classes for theyouth conference. The health depart-ment, family services, education,recreation, Seminole police depart-ment, language and culture, and firerescue all volunteered their time toteach the Seminole youth about theirdepartments’ services. It is a won-derful sight to see all of the tribe’sresources being utilized for such apurpose.

Planned activities, such as atrip to Busch Gardens and UniversalStudios Islands Of Adventure® tookplace each afternoon after lunch. OnWednesday night, the conferenceended with a talent and traditionalclothing contest.

It was amazing to see howmany talented young Seminoles theBrighton community has, and howthe youth conference and the sharing

that goes on there abolishes the stage fright that manyof them deal with. The youth conference, as always,was a fun-filled, learning-enriched week for the entirefamily.

It’s hard to believe the flu season is upon usalready. It seems like only yesterday that we observedhundreds of people waiting in line to receive their flushot. To their surprise and disappointment, many ofthem were turned away due to the shortage of the fluvaccine. The following guidelines can help youdecide whether the flu shot is right for you.

Why should I get the flu shot? Medicareprovides four reasons why:

1. The flu is serious business. The flu is notjust a runny nose or upset stomach. It is a serious ill-ness that can lead to pneumonia. At least 45,000Americans die each year from influenza and pneumo-nia, the sixth leading cause of death in the UnitedStates. 90 percent of these deaths are among people65 years of age or over.

2. The flu can be very dangerous for people50 and older. People 50 years of age or over shouldget a flu shot, unless they are allergic to eggs. It’salso important for those with a chronic illness, andfor those who spend a lot of time around sick or eld-erly people.

Some of the most common symptoms of theflu are fever, chills, headache, dry cough, runny orstuffy nose, sore throat, and muscle aches. Unlikeother common respiratory infections such as thecommon cold, the flu can cause extremefatigue lasting several days to more than aweek. The flu is spread easily from personto person primarily when an infected per-son coughs or sneezes, just like the com-mon cold.

After a person has beeninfected with the virus, symptomsusually appear within two to fourdays. The infection is consideredcontagious for another three to fourdays after symptoms appear.Often times, the flu is mistaken-ly associated with what peoplecall the stomach flu. While it istrue that some children who suf-fer from the flu will sometimesexperience nausea and vomiting,the flu mainly causes severe upper respiratory diffi-culty in adults. Plus, the flu cannot be treated withantibiotics because it's a virus, just like the commoncold. The best treatment for the flu is prevention.

3. A flu shot is safe and helps you protectothers. Flu shots are safe and effective. And whenyou get a flu shot, you help yourself and those aroundyou. By avoiding the flu, you avoid giving it tofriends and family.

4. Medicare Part B pays for it. When youhave Medicare Part B and you get your flu shot froma Medicare provider, you pay no co-insurance ordeductible. Also, if the person giving the shot agreesnot to charge more than the amount Medicare pays,you pay nothing.

Medicare Part B also pays for the pneumo-coccal vaccination. Ask your health care providerabout both of these vaccines. (Note: Managed CarePlan members may be required to get shots from theirManaged Care Plan. Ask your Managed Care Plan formore information.)

You can get a flu shot at your doctor’soffice. You may also be able to get a flu shot fromyour local health department or from other health-care providers. Medicare Part B will pay for the shotno matter where you get it, as long as the health care

provider agrees not to charge you more thanMedicare pays.

To find local health care providers whoaccept Medicare as payment in full for the flu shot,contact 1-800-MEDICARE or search Medicare’swebsite at www.medicare.gov.

Other common questions about flu shotsinclude:

When should I get the flu shot? Influenza ismost common in the U.S. from December to April, soit’s best to get the flu shot from October through mid-November. The vaccine begins to protect you afterone to two weeks.

Do I need a flu shot every year? Yes.Although only a few different influenza viruses circu-late at any given time, people continue to become illwith the flu throughout their lives. The reason for thiscontinuing susceptibility is that influenza viruses arecontinually changing, usually as a result of mutationsin the viral genes.

Each year the vaccine is updated to includethe most current influenza virus strains. The fact thatinfluenza viruses continually change is one of the

reasons vaccine must be taken every year.Another reason is that antibody produced by

the person in response to the vaccinedeclines over time, and anti-body levels are often low oneyear after vaccination.

Uh oh, I have the flu.What do I do? Once a personhas the flu, treatment usually

consists of resting in bed, drink-ing plenty of fluids, and taking

medication such as aspirin or acet-aminophen to relieve fever and dis-

comfort. Children with the flu shouldnot take aspirin because of the asso-ciated risk of a rare, but very seriousillness called Reyes syndrome.

When should I call mydoctor? Call your doctor if you haveany signs of the flu. You should also

contact your doctor if you havebreathing or heart problems, or other serious healthproblems, you are taking drugs that fight cancer(chemotherapy) or weaken your body’s naturaldefenses against illness, you feel sick and don’t seemto be getting better, you have a cough that begins toproduce phlegm and turns wet, and/or you are wor-ried about your health and have other questions.

Medicare currently provides coverage for fluand pneumonia vaccinations. Medicare covers one flushot a year, in the fall or winter. All people withMedicare are covered. You do not pay for a flu shot ifthe doctor or health care provider accepts assignment.

While Medicare strongly encourages people50 years and older to get their annual flu shot, be sureto contact your physician if you are unsure if youneed a flu shot. If a flu shot is recommended, don’tdelay; get your flu shot today.

Flu shots will be available in Octoberthrough reservation clinics. To contact one of them,please call (954) 962-2009 in Hollywood, (863) 983-5151 in Big Cypress, and (863) 763-0271 inBrighton. You may also contact 1-800-MEDICAREor log onto http://www.medicare.gov to find aprovider near you.

Seminole Tribe’s department of emergencyservices will issue smoke alarms as part of FirePrevention Week, October 3–9. As partof a community-wide fire preventioneffort, firefighters from the departmentof emergency services will issue totribal families a free smoke alarm.

The Free Smoke AlarmProgram is part of Fire PreventionWeek 2004, a public safety cam-paign intended to educate chil-dren and families about firesafety. This year’s theme, “TestYour Smoke Alarms” empha-sizes that, because fire canspread so quickly, it’s essentialthat families know what to do inthe event of a fire. The campaignhelps families prepare for such anemergency by teaching them howto install and test smoke alarms,as well as how to plan and prac-tice home escape plans.

According to theNational Fire ProtectionAssociation, the international nonprofitsafety advocate and official sponsor of FirePrevention Week for more than 80 years, half of all

home fire deaths in the U.S. occur in the six percentof homes without smoke alarms.

“Smoke alarms are the most effective earlywarning device there is,” said David Logan, Fire

Inspector/Public Education Specialist. “Having asmoke alarm in your home cuts your chance of

dying almost in half.”Fire can grow and spread through a

home in a matter of minutes.Because time is of the essence, theadvance warning provided by

smoke alarms can be enough tosave lives. By participating inthis community smoke alarminstallation, Seminole Tribe FireRescue is helping to ensure that

local residents are safer in theirhomes.

During the three-daysmoke alarm program, Big Cypressand Brighton firefighters will takenames of residents who wish to

obtain a free smoke detector andwill distribute these by October22. Firefighters will also offer

tips on installation.For more information call the department of

emergency services at (863) 983-2150.

Don’t Delay; Get Your Flu Shot Today!

Seminole Tribe Department of EmergencyServices Announces Free Smoke Alarms

Seniors Learn Nutrition Tips andPlay ‘Healthier You Bingo’

(L-R) Maggie Osceola and Mary Gay Osceola participate in a gameof bingo over a healthy breakfast at the Senior Center.

Shelley Marmor

Health Educator Shannon McKeown talks to sen-iors about the importance of healthy eating.

Shelley Marmor

Youngsters practiced their beadwork at the youth conference.Emma Brown

Ninth Annual Brighton Youth Conference

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The Seminole Tribune 8 September 3, 2004

By Mark Lichtenberg and Sandy MuruganHOLLYWOOD — The Family Services

theme for the month of August was, appropriatelyenough, “Back to School.” The August booth was setup to share information with both students and par-ents, to help make the transition from summer fun toschool routine smoother.

Family Services staff had a good time hand-ing out back-to-school survival kits to the children.Each survival kit included helpful reminders to man-age the beginning of the new academic year success-fully. Coloring activities were given to the little ones.

Handouts of a valuable checklist of back-to-schoolparenting guidelines were available to adults.Reminder brochures for the Kids/Youth group werealso distributed. In addition, the booth offered healthysnacks and water.

Anyone needing assistance with the back toschool transition should feel free to call or stop bythe family services department. Don’t forget, thekids/youth group meets at the DSO building everyWednesday at 3:30 p.m. We’ll see you there and lookforward to chatting with you at the September booth!

attend because of a previously scheduled meeting.Cypress then related his pleasure at having

worked beside Elaine for several years and congratu-lated her on a job well done. He said that the commu-nity members have been fortunate to have her repre-sent them and a great deal has been accomplishedunder her guidance.

The microphone was passed to Elaine whothanked everyone for the wonderful surprise party.She was deeply moved by this tribute from herfriends and neighbors.

“This is my second real birthday,” she said.“When I was growing up, we were very poor andthere was no extra money for things like birthdayparties or presents. My broth-er, Harry Clay, had a smalltransistor radio that he lovedvery much. I would borrow itwhenever he would let me orif he laid it down for a fewminutes, I would pick it up.On my sixteenth birthday, helaid that radio in my hand andsaid ‘This is yours’.”

As she rememberedthis most cherished momentwith the brother that sheadored, she was filled withemotion and there was not adry eye in the room. Many ofthe seniors were rememberingthe shared hardships they hadexperienced while growingup.

Roger Smith,Council Representative fromBrighton, came to Elaine’srescue by taking themicrophone. He stated that hedid not know her personallyuntil he was elected to thecouncil. Smith said he hasenjoyed working with hervery much and has learnedfrom her example. As he embraced her he said howproud he was to serve beside her and have this oppor-tunity to express his appreciation.

Louise Motlow offered a prayer inMiccosukee, thanking God for all the wonderfulthings in our lives. She talked of the temptations thatour young people face each day with alcohol anddrugs. She prayed for the guidance to show the wayto make these things happen.

Amy Yzaguirre told the group that themicrophone would be passed around during lunch foreveryone to have an opportunity to recount storiesabout Elaine or express their thoughts. The seniorsthen led the line down the buffet table which hadbeen catered by Lazanos Restaurant. There was agenerous amount of fine Mexican cuisine whicheveryone enjoyed.

The public address system echoed one trib-ute after another to Elaine. Rachel Billierecalled the day in 1945 when Elaine was born in thewoods behind the sugar mill in Clewiston, Fla. Billiewas a young child at the time and her mother hadgone into the woods to assist Lucy Johns in the deliv-ery of her second child. She was told to wait in thevillage but she followed them, hiding in the bushesand remembers seeing the newborn baby shortly afterbirth.

Carol Frank Cypress remembered LucyJohns as the hard working mother of Harry Clay,Elaine and Jeannie. She moved wherever she couldfind work to feed and care for her family. She notonly accepted full responsibility for her children, butfrom time to time, cared for others in need.

Cypress was one of many who had been apart of that family for a short time. These traits havebeen passed down through the family as Elaine andher children continue the tradition of helping others.Their doors are always open to children in need,whether it amounts to a day of babysitting or a life-time of foster care.

That little Seminole girl was born on Augustl7, 1945, in the woods at Clewiston. Following hercultural background, she made baskets and sewedpatchwork as a source of income for her family.

She has enjoyed 40 wonderful years of mar-riage to Pedro Aguilar and hasbeen the mother of seven children:Spenser, Kathy, Michelle, Sheila,Pedro Jr., Edward and Karen. Herextended family includes 17 grand-children, foster and step-grandchil-dren; all of them are very dear toher heart.

Elaine began a long careerof community service as a commu-nity health representative. Whenshe became an education coun-selor, she returned to school for herGED and encourages all tribal citi-zens to further their education.

During the l980s, shebecame Immokalee’s board repre-sentative. She continued to holdthis position through the1998–1999 term, when she becameImmokalee’s council liaison. Shecontinues to serve in this capacitytoday.

During her time in publicservice the Seminole Tribe hasmade huge strides in developmentand expansion across the entirestate. She served on the boardwhich eventually established theEastern Indian Rodeo Association,the 4-H club and expansion and

scores of other achievements. Immokalee saw theopening of its casino, additional housing and mostrecently the completion of the new water and wastemanagement plant to name a few. It is because of thisoutstanding career that the Immokalee communitywished to acknowledge their appreciation on herbirthday.

Two large cakes symbolized the message ofthe day. A rose covered birthday cake and a specialsurprise on the appreciation cake. Family ServicesSite Supervisor Billie Napper had acquired an oldpost card on eBay®, which depicted Lucy Johns andher young daughter, Elaine, while living in Ocala atthe Silver Springs Village. This picture which hadbeen reproduced on the top of the cake provided avery sentimental touch to an already emotional event.

The tribute was concluded when Elaineopened and displayed several beautiful gifts whichincluded beaded glassware, hand made ceramics, apatchwork skirt, beaded salt and pepper shakers,household accessories, a blanket, bedspread andmuch, much more. The gift table was adorned withseveral bouquets of red roses and a large basket offlowers and fruit.

ElaineContinued from page 1

Elaine Aguilar admires one of themany beautiful gifts she received.

Judy Weeks

Family Services Back to School Booth

By Shelley MarmorHOLLYWOOD — Lester Brown told a

crowd of about 15 tribal citizens that he didn’t learnhow to read until he was 30. He learned to read fromhis cellmate while serving a prison sentence.

After he learned to read he went to take hisGED test, and as soon as he received that, he got hishigh school diploma. Brown then went on to collegeand earned his bachelor’s of science degree in psy-chology from the University of Wisconsin.

Currently, Brown is the vice president ofL.L. BrownInternational, Inc., aSeattle, Wash.-basedcompany he and hiswife, PresidentCarolyn Scott Brown,own. According toCarolyn Scott Browntheir company spe-cializes in motiva-tional training semi-nars that help peoplepositively changetheir lives.

On TuesdayAugust 17, LesterBrown gave a semi-nar entitled StartingYour Own Business& Managing YourMoney Wisely at theSeminole Hard RockHotel & Casino. Theseminar was spon-sored by TrailLiaison William Osceola, who also attended.

“Its information that we all need,” Osceolasaid. “I need it too.”

In Brown’s seminar, he went over topics thatincluded: how to select the proper insurance, estab-lishing a personal finance strategy and understandingpersonal attitudes about money. But according toBrown, the first thing to do in order to better managefinances is admit there is a spending problem beforetoo much debt amasses.

“When they are $30,000 or $40,000 or$50,000 or $100,000 in debt, they say ‘Boy, youknow, I’ve got a problem,’ ”he said.

In the Starting Your Own Business &

Managing Your Money Wisely, Brown had attendeesactually write down their expenses. He said if theyactually see the monetary figures on paper they willsee how much money they waste. Brown encouragedthe participants to begin taking action against unnec-essary spending immediately after leaving his semi-nar.

“Its stated if people go through some train-ing, you have 72 hours in which to do something, acton it,” he said. “If you don’t within 72 hours-startsomething-you’re not going to do anything. If people

are not given specificthings to do whilethey’re in class andspecific things to dowhen they leave, thetraining is null andvoid.”

According toBrown, his seminarsare successful becausethey focus on posi-tivism, saying “themost important thingabout the program isthat we make it fun.”He said he does nottell people not tospend their money onwhatever they choseto.

“I don’t knowwhat the future willbring,” he said. “But Iknow what positivethinking will get you.”

Osceola said one of the messages he gotfrom the seminar was when Brown asked the audi-ence what they do when they receive a paycheck;everyone said their money goes to bills. However,Brown told them they should pay themselves first, byputting money aside for themselves, and then payingthe bills.

Brown has been working with the tribe formore than two decades. He lists some of today’s lead-ers as his students, including Ahfachkee Principal LeeZepeda and Brian Zepeda from the Ah-Tah-Thi-KiMuseum. Besides the tribe, Brown has worked withthe Oakland Raiders, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers andGeneral Motors.

Lester Brown Gives Financial Seminarat Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

Lester Brown discusses financial strategies at a seminarheld at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel.

Shelley Marmor

Family Services

The Seminole Tribune 9 September 3, 2004

By Iretta TigerHOLLYWOOD — For Seminole

students of all ages, this is the time of yearwhen all those long hours and hard work inschool is rewarded. On August 10, theSeminole education department held its annu-al incentive awards banquet.

This year’s banquet was held in theballrooms at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel &Casino. The centerpieces were arts and craftsmade by the participants in the culture pro-gram.

The presentation of awards startedwith the preschoolers and continued throughthose receiving their degrees. The awardrecipients are as follows:

Kindergarten: Ethan Cypress, IsaiahPichardo, Tarina Young, Marsha Osceola,Kathlyn Kippenberger, Jackie Willie, TysonOsceola, Mingo Jones, Janay Cypress, CarsonKnaby, Luke Baxley Jr., Kiana Bell, JoelliFrank, Devan Bowers, Shania Johns,Alexander Escobar, Knananochet Osceola,Fairuza Billie, Jade Young, Gerret Osceola,Nathaniel Jim, Jesse Sanchez, DeniseOsceola, Travis Baker, Eden Jumper, RandeeOsceola, Cameron Jumper, Taylor Holata,Natomah Robbins, Sharka Frank, ElizabethOsceola.

First Grade: Raevin Frank, JonathanIdle, Brianna Blais-Bilie, Baylee Micco, TousYoung Jr., Elijah Snell, Briana Bilodeau,Jennie Eagle, Elden Osceola, Neko Osceola,Kassaundra Houseman, Deila Harjo, IsiahThomas, Ellyse Frank, Cameron Osceola,Daija Baxley, Esyra Frank.

Second Grade: Dominique Motlow,Trewston Pierce, Nicholas Jumper, NeyomOsceola, Anissa Osceola, Wyatt Deitz, KCMcDonald, Peter Billie Jr., Konrad Jones,Alisia Billie, Tiffany Baker, Tia Blais-Billie,Jaide Micco, Cheyenne Kippenberger, JackOsceola, Tristina Osceola, Isabel Tucker,Adahma Sirota, Jonathan Bowers, TrevorOsceola, Katelyn Young, Dakota Tiger, KaylaBillie, Aaron Osceola.

Third Grade: Zechariah Lacey, RayelBillie, Lorelei Tommie, Jesse Mitchell, AlexisJumper, Darion Cypress, Elena Jim, JonathonFrank, Justin Frank, Hunter Osceola, JosephJohn, Clarissa JumperAileen Cypress, Darian Cypress-Osceola,Tyler Baker, Maleah Isaac.

Fourth Grade: Tianna Young,Braudie Blias-Billie, Dalton Jumper, HoustonOsceola, Victoria Lacey, Kristy Johns, DevinBillie, Ariah Osceola, Kendrick Osceola,Tucomah Robbins, Tayler Cypress, CharlieOsceola.

Fifth Grade: Malcom Lacey Jr.,Talena Castillo, Jean Frank, Jessica Osceola,Kristen Billie, Marissa Osceola, CourtneyOsceola, Jason Dodd, Darryl Fuentez, KyleBaker, Darwin Cypress, Klayton Sanders,Tiyonda Farrior.

Sixth Grade: Duelle Gore, AnahhnaSirota, Miles Osceola, Shelli Osceola, EricSanders Jr., Mariah Buster-Osceola, NelsonOsceola.

Seventh Grade: Sheyanna Osceola,Christian Osceola, Robert Osceola, JoeJimmie, James Tiger Jr., Falon Keyser,Allyson Billie, Joseph Hiers, Cody Billie,Jackson Richardson, Victor Osceola, ShelbyDeHass, Randee McDonald.

Eighth Grade: Garrett Anderson,Chelsea Mountain, Robert North Jr., DemetriaTigertail, Robert Frank III, Krystle Young,Kayla Bowers, Nickolas Doctor-Jumper.

Ninth Grade: Shelby Osceola,Samantha Hisler, Summer Billie, Calvin TigerJr., Michael Doctor.

Tenth Grade: Joshua Fish, DavidDoctor, Jerome Davis Jr., David Anderson Jr.,Clifford Sanchez, Casey McCall, KuryaKippenberger, Atlanta Johns, Gary Frank.

Eleventh Grade: Joseph Richardson,Drew Osceola, Stephen Billie, Tasha Osceola,Jo-Jo Osceola, Christine McCall.

Twelfth Grade: Whitney Tucker, MiaSapp.

College: Jennifer Chadwick, GregoryThomas, O’Hara Tommie, Laura Tucker,Jamenia Thomas, Blake Osceola, ChristinaBillie, Mitchell Osceola, Sunshine Frank,Melissa DeMayo, JoLin Osceola, AnthonyFrank, Courtney Doctor, Larissa Tucker,Laura Billie, Elrod Bowers, Jessica Buster-Billie, Ericka Cypress-Osceola, Kyle Doney,Vanessa Frank, Carla Gopher, Andrea Holata,Anthony Pacheco, Diane Pequeno, ZenaSimmons, Jarrid Smith, Kashane Tiger,Marina Tigertail, Jaimie Yzaguirre.

A special award was then introducedby Hollywood Councilman Max Osceola Jr.,the Billy L. Cypress Higher EducationScholarship. Created by the Seminole TribalCouncil, this award recognizes those whohave earned a bachelors degree or higher,regardless of the year the degree wasachieved.

The council named the award afterCypress because he was the first person in thetribe to achieve that goal, graduating fromStetson University in 1965. He was also thefirst person to receive the award. His widowCarol Cypress and their son William CypressJr. accepted the award on his behalf.

The other recipients of the Billy L.Cypress Higher Education Scholarship are:Max Osceola Jr., Moses Osceola, TonySanchez, Paula Sanchez, Ted Nelson Jr.,JoLin Osceola, Ella DeHass, Jerome Jumperand Anthony Frank. Each person was alsoawarded with a gold presidential Rolex withtheir name and graduation date engraved onthe back.

Following the Billy L. Cypressawards, the culture program recognized andawarded those who participated in their pro-gram throughout the year. They also bestowedappreciation awards to those who supportedand were mentors in the program.

The evening concluded with a magicshow for the children and several adultsstayed to enjoy the show with them.Congratulations to all award winners! It cannever be said enough–please stay in school.

2004 Hollywood Incentive Awards

The first and second grade Incentive Award recipients with Board President Moses Osceola (back, left) and Hollywood Councilman Max B. Osceola (back, right).Iretta Tiger

Recipients of the Billy L. Cypress Higher Education Scholarship: (back row, left) Max B. Osceola Jr., Moses B. Osceola (back row, right), (front row, L-R) EllaDeHass, Shirley MacLannan, Joe Dan Osceola accepting for his daughter JoLin Osceola, Teddy Nelson Jr., Anthony Frank, and William Cypress accepting onbehalf of his late father Billy L. Cypress. Also pictured Hollywood Board Representative David DeHass (back row, center).

Iretta Tiger

Sixth, seventh and eightth graders.Iretta Tiger

Third, fourth and fifth graders.Iretta Tiger

Hollywood Board Representative David DeHass congratulates eleventh gradeaward recipient Tasha Osceola.

Iretta Tiger

Max B. Osceola congratulates his daughter Melissa DeMayo, who received acollege incentive award.

Iretta Tiger

The Seminole Tribune 10 September 3, 2004

By Emma BrownBRIGHTON — July 30 marked the cele-

bration of EMAHAKV VPELOFV, the Creek wordmeaning “teaching hammock,” for the Brighton 1–6grade students. This program is designed to provideBrighton’s elementary students withtwo weeks of summer enrichmentbefore heading back to school.

The program is centered on:language experience approach, culturalrelevancy, peer mentoring, and part-nered teaching. Seminole culture isgiven relevancy by a language experi-ence approach as students and teachershear stories, draw pictures, learn aboutSeminole culture, and create personalreading materials and math problemswhile implementing Seminole culture.

This year’s program consistedof five classes taught using the team-teaching method of instruction. Eachclass was instructed by either a certi-fied teacher or teacher trainee with oneor more Seminole teachers to assist.Each class also was assisted by juniorteachers which are Seminole studentsin middle school and high school.

This method allows teachertrainees the opportunity to gain practi-cal experience in cross-cultural teach-ing and also allows the Seminoleteachers to develop competencies inteaching/tutoring skills that can beapplied to tutor Seminole children, andeven their own children.

Each morning the students gathered in thelibrary for the morning assembly and salute to theSeminole and American flags. Once the assemblyconcluded, students made their way to their firstclasses and settled down for a day of cultural experi-

ence. The classes were as follows: Creek readingtaught by Lawn Morris-Lorene Gopher, DawnMorris-Manke, and Danette Bowers. History taughtby Willie Johns and Loretta Peterson. Arts and craftstaught by Martha Jones, Joanne Osceola, Mary Alice

Huff and Donna Harmon. Math taught by MaryJohns, Jennifer Perez, and Mabel Haught. Writingtaught by Jenny Shore, Jennifer Tubb, and JadeBraswell.

The junior teachers for the program were

Bess DeHass, Brittany Smith, Shelby Huff and JewelBuck.

The summer school participants learnedmany new things about math, reading and writing byincorporating Seminole culture into their learningprocess. Many beautiful bracelets, necklaces and art

work were created by the students,which were on display for everyone tosee during the open house.

This year’s program celebrat-ed its final day on Friday July 30 withan open house for the parents andcommunity. Each parent arrived at theeducation department and went to eachof their child’s classrooms to see thedifferent items that he or she had cre-ated and were able to meet the teacherand hear about the wonderful learningthat took place during the two weeks.

Each parent who attendedreceived door prize tickets, whichwere given away after the deliciousbarbecue dinner.

EMAHAKV VPELOFV hasbeen running for several years and thehigh attendance that increases eachyear proves that program is a successand joy for the Brighton community.Shelly Walker, program coordinator,along with each of the Seminole andnon-Seminole teachers, put in manyhours of hard work and effort to create

such a successful program this year.Without daily efforts and dedication of the

teachers, there would be no summer school for ourchildren in the Brighton community and they are tobe commended for a job well done.

By Dora Bell, Higher Education AdvisorThe Sunday August 1 edition of the New

York Times featured an article entitled “AmericanIndians Expand College Hopes.” The followingthemes are developed in the article:

Every summer Ivy League schools gettogether to offer a five day crash course calledCollege Horizons. This course aims to prepare NativeAmerican juniors and seniors for application to eliteschools in the U.S. universities, including Harvard,Yale, Stanford and 19 other schools.

American Indians and Alaskan Natives, whomake up one percent of the nation’s population, areunderrepresented at many highly selective schools.

On average, less than one in five Indians who enrollin college earn a bachelor’s degree. Presently,Harvard has 55 Native Americans out of a totalenrollment of 6,500.

Some tribes offer scholarships to their mem-bers with revenues from casinos. However, tribe-financed scholarships are not available to most stu-dents because only about 30 of the 500 tribes in theU.S. run lucrative gaming operations.

Among members of the Seminole Tribe ofFlorida, an interest in higher education is increasing.At the time, there are 72 students enrolled in thehigher education program.

By Jaime RestrepoBIG CYPRESS — The Big Cypress pre-

school hosted an open house and parent orientationon August 11. Preschool Director, Leona TommieWilliams, was on hand to answer questions andaddress any concerns of the attendees.

This is the first year of such an orientation,unlike in previous years, which was done on an indi-vidual basis. Parents, relatives, and guardians of reg-istered children were in attendance.

The preschool has a full complement of per-sonnel and teaching tools, along with an educationprogram designed to prepare very young students forlife in a classroom setting, interaction with other chil-dren, and other social skills. Special attention is paidto the diet, hygiene and general health of the child.

In addition to preschool education, the facil-ity boasts a child care center for children as young asone year old. Children are placed in age groups andare exposed to a wide assortment of activities andcare while their parents are either working or atschool. The preschool provides an art area, a readingarea, a quiet area and a block area. There is also anoutdoor playground.

Big Cypress Council Representative DavidCypress was on hand to tour the school and listen tothe presentation made by the staff. He also participat-ed in a scavenger hunt along with other school chil-dren.

Cypress helped clarify the eligibility require-ments for registration.

In general, the child must be: an enrolledSeminole tribal citizen, an enrolled Seminole tribalcitizen in foster care, a direct descendant of anenrolled tribal citizen, and/or an enrolled tribal citizenof another recognized band or tribe.

Priority is given to parents who are workingor enrolled in school. Self-employment is acceptable.All students who are turned down are placed on awaiting list.

Dinner and refreshments were served. Doorprizes were awarded with a winner in each age group.

There are four centers within the SeminoleTribe. They are in Big Cypress, Hollywood,Immokalee and Brighton. In Big Cypress, the schoolhours are 8 a.m.–3:15 p.m., with extended care until5:30 p.m.

By Shelley MarmorHOLLYWOOD — The Dorothy Scott

Osceola preschool building was transformed onThursday August 12, decked out in a 1950s-theme.The ladies from preschool wore poodle skirts anddanced around to music, from artists ranging fromDolly Parton to Jimmy Buffett, coming from a jukebox. There was even an Elvis Presley look alike.

On this day, the staff of the Hollywood pre-school welcomed future preschoolers and their par-ents to the annual orientation event. Parents receivedhandbooks that provided tips for how to transitiontheir children to preschool life.

According to Disability ServicesCoordinator Thommy Doud, the preschool depart-ment always welcomes the new preschoolers andtheir parents in a grand fashion.

“We try to have a theme every year,” hesaid. “This year it’s the 50s. But before this we’vehad a Hawaiian theme and a movie theme, with a redcarpet for everyone to walk down.”

Parents and children alike enjoyed the 50sdécor, complete with black and white checkered rac-ing flags and a replica diner. At Shirley’s Diner,everyone could relive the 50s with hamburgers for 40cents, hot dogs for 30 cents, and 25 cent French fries.

By Patrick Peck, MA, REHSThis is the time of the year when parents are

scurrying to get their children ready for the schoolyear. Along with school supplies and the latest fash-ion trends, parents are to place health at the top oftheir back to school list.

Children are constantly exposed to otherindividuals’ body fluids. Whether it is by wipingone’s nose and then slapping a hive five, sharing acommon cup or borrowing a pencil, health educationought to be at the forefront of school concerns overthe spread of infectious diseases.

The single most important routine that kidscan do to prevent spreading of diseases is to washtheir hands. Hands should be washed any time onehandles a suspected contaminated item or before eat-ing.

Hand washing is absolutely the number onething kids can do according to infectious disease spe-

cialists. It is one behavior that can be taught at homeand at school that can have a real impact on thespread of infectious diseases.

As a general rule, the easiest way to stop thespread of infection lies in the easiest solutions.Viruses, bacteria and other germs are all around us.They are part of our natural environment. The trick isto prevent them from growing and spreading. Thiscan be done by protecting oneself.

Another essential thing is to keep up withimmunizations, getting a physical exam and for those10 and older to maintain an open dialogue about sex,drugs, alcohol and tobacco.

Parents should establish good communica-tion with their kid especially in the middle and highschool years.

For more information on the above pleasecontact environmental health services at (954) 962-2009, Ext. 125.

Allison Osceola (right) with Ariissa Cypress.Shelley Marmor

By Judy WeeksIMMOKALEE — The

1960s was the theme for theImmokalee preschool openhouse held at the preschool onThursday August 12. The schoolwas decorated with hippie beads,classic emblems of the flowerchildren era and the teachersdressed in the appropriate attire.

It was a full house withall the parents of the students inattendance. Preschool ManagerMichelle Ford made the presen-tation and passed out handbooksfor all parents. A careful reviewwas done of all the materials inthe handbook and the school’sproposed schedule wasannounced.

Each teacher from thepreschool staff was introduced.Several good questions wereasked and answered, making fora very good meeting. The par-ents were asked to think aboutpossible fund raising projectsthat might take place during theupcoming school year.

The open house con-cluded with a review of thefacilities and serving of refresh-ments.

(L-R) Yopilakiyo and DeLaney Osceola at Teaching Hammock.Emma Brown

Teacher Jennifer Tubb (right) speaks with parents Ethel Gopherand Danny Harmon.

Emma Brown

Back to School: Keep Illness Away

Conversations on Higher Education

Open House Kicks Off 2004–2005 School Year

Preschool Open House Goes 1960s

(L-R) Elva Montez, Michelle Ford, and Ruby Garcia get groovy at theImmokalee preschool in their 1960s attire.

Michelle Ford

Students Participate In EMAHAKVVPELOFV–‘Teaching Hammock’

Preschool teacher Elva Montez instructs students.Michelle Ford

(L-R) Hollywood Preschool Center Manager Carol Crenshaw and Amber Giehtbrock.Shelley Marmor

Preschool Welcomes New Students in Style

The Seminole Tribune 11 September 3, 2004

By Tabitha OsceolaCLEWISTON, FL — The rodeo started off

with Willie Johns riding around the arena leading ahorse with no rider in remembrance of a truly greatcowboy, Caleb Fletcher, who passed away on August1. The rodeo was dedicated to Fletcher who was a bigfan of all the Seminole cowboys and cowgirls. Hesupported all the cowboys and cowgirls with hisencouraging words and cheers from the stands orbucking shoots.

Fletcher will be truly missed. However, inspirit, he will still be at each rodeo and continue on inthe hearts of many cowboys and cowgirls.

With this being the last rodeo, all came outto do their best. Even the little cowboys and cowgirlscame out with their game faces on. The mutton bust-ing went into sudden death with a three way ride offbetween Kalgary Johns, Trevor Thomas and MichaelGarcia. Even though the two cowboys rode very welland gave it their all, the cowgirl, Kalgary Johns, wasable to hang on for another 30 second ride to beat theboys. Good job Kalgary.

In the sanctioned events, Sydney Gore wasable to cover his Saddle Bronc with a score of 63 totake the reserve champion spot. Sheyanna Osceolawas able to hang on to her second place position inthe standings as her sister Shelby Osceola was onlyseven points behind her. Congratulations SheyannaOsceola.

Congratulations to all the winners and goodluck in California at the Indian National Finals.

Rodeo Results:Kids Events:Mutton Busting: 1. Kalgary Johns, 2. Michael Garcia,3. Trevor Thomas.Calf Riding: 1. Andre Jumper, 2. JJ Johns.Pony Riding: 1. William Bearden.4-8yrs Barrels: 1. Acealyn Youngblood, 2. KalgaryJohns, 3. Andre Jumper.9-12yrs Barrels: 1. Nauthkee Henry, 2. ZaneDucheneaux, 3. JJ Johns.13-18yrs Barrels: 1. Jade Braswell.Jr. Bulls: 1. Dayne Johns, 2. Justin Aldridge.Jr. Bareback: No qualified rides.Sanctioned Events:Bareback: No qualified rides.Steer Wrestling: 1. Robbie Chalfant, 2. Naha jumper,3. Jason Grasshopper.Saddle Bronc: 1. Sydney Gore.Calf Roping: 1. Josh Jumper, 2. Naha Jumper.Women’s Breakaway: 1. Trina Bowers, 2. ShelbyOsceola.50 & Over Breakaway: No qualified times.Team Roping: 1. Josh Jumper/Naha Jumper, 2. JeffJohns/Todd Johns.Women’s Barrels: 1. Tess Ducheneaux, 2. BoogieJumper, 3. Ayze Henry.

By Michael KellyMIAMI, FL — On August 14, the First

Annual Sonny Billie golf tournament was played atthe picturesque Miccosukee Golf Course in Miami,Fla. The four-man blind draw was organized by thelate Sonny Billie’s son, Ricky Doctor.

Among the host of eager golfers playing inthe tournament were Billy Cypress, Chairman of theMiccosukee Tribe and Immokalee Board LiaisonRaymond Garza.

The difficult 27-hole course consists of threenine-hole courses: marlin, dolphin, and the water-haz-ard filled barracuda.

“Even though the barracuda is tough, out ofthe three, I think the ‘marlin’ is the most difficult,”said golfer RoyPoole.

The wellmanicured course,which is home tomany charityevents throughoutthe year, was a per-fect setting for thetournament.Chairman MitchellCypress, whoenjoys playing asmuch as he can,only recentlypicked up the sport.

“I've beenplaying for abouttwo years now,”said Cypress.“You've got to playat least once aweek to stay con-sistent.”

Later atthe awards ban-quet, Cypress men-tioned that one ofthe reasons heenjoys the game ofgolf is that itrequires discipline, concentration, and skill, saying“to do well, you need to rely on yourself.”

One person who never thought he’d everplay the game of golf is Raymond Garza. Garza hasplayed for a grand total of one month, but says he isthoroughly hooked–even going as far as to watch theGolf channel.

“I would drive past the driving range inBrighton and say I’d never play golf,” said Garza.“Now, here I am on the golf course and loving it.”

The real reason the Immokalee representa-tive decided to pick up the sport was this specifictournament.

“He [Sonny] was my dad's nephew,” said atouched Garza. “When I found out there was going tobe a tournament in his honor, I wanted to play in it.”

As for the tournament, there was plenty ofgreat golf played, despite the hot, humid conditions

and occasional light drizzle. On the 189 yard par 3,Roy Poole launched a four-wood drive through a stiffbreeze that landed about 20 feet from the pin. AllenHuff followed with a terrific birdie putt. ChairmanCypress had his share of fine shots too, despite hislimited experience in playing golf.

Allen Huff, from Brighton, used his 15-plusyears of golf experience to play a terrific round ofgolf. He continually kept the ball in the fairway,crushing many long drives and added to it, a solidshort game.

The all-Indian tournament drew nearly threedozen people, but organizer Ricky Doctor would liketo see a bigger tournament.

“I'm looking forward to next year's tourna-ment already,” saidDoctor. “Next year,we’ll expand thetournament to alltribal members andemployees.”

Doctorwas extremelythankful that every-one came out tosupport the tourna-ment, but also toremember his latefather, SonnyBillie. At theawards banquetthat followed,Doctor held up thetop prizes for thefirst place winners,four brand newputters. Each putterincluded a beauti-fully crafted bead-ed grip cover,hand-made byRicky himself.

ChairmanCypress expressedhis thanks to every-one who came out,

saying “We always enjoy bringing the communitytogether.”

Results of the tournament are listed below.1. Ricky Doctor, Moses “Bigg Shot”

Jumper, Charles Cypress, Bobby Frank; 2. DonOsceola, Joe Kippenberger, James Tommie, TerryHahn; 3. Allen Jumper, Joe Billie, Linda Tommie,Marcy Osceola; 4. Tony S. Bert, Max Billie, MitchOsceola, Cody Bert; Richard Buster, KahaineOsceola, Cicero Osceola, Danny Jumper; 6. VirginiaBillie, Andrew Gert, Maxie Tommie, LawrenceOsceola; 7. Allen Huff, Billy Cypress, RaymondGarza, Roy Poole.

Awards: Sr. Men’s long drive: Allen Jumper;Closest to the pin, #3: James Tommie; Closest to thepin, #6: Roy Poole; Longest drive: Max Tommie;Women's long drive: Linda Tommie; Closest to thepin (Marlin Course), Mitch Osceola.

$110,000 on the line forworld’s best women poolplayers when Seminole HardRock Hotel & Casino holdsCuetec® Cues FloridaClassic Sept. 8–12By Gary Bitner

HOLLYWOOD — The Seminole HardRock Hotel & Casino plays host to the world’s bestfemale pool players September 8–12. This is the fifthstop on the 2004 Women’s Professional BilliardAssociation(WPBA)ClassicBilliard Tour.TheESPN/ESPN2televisedCuetec® CuesFloridaClassic is oneof eightESPN-tele-vised women’spool events onthe women’spro billiard tour this year.

You’ve seen them on TV. Now you can seethem live in the WPBA tour’s only Florida appearance as the world’s top women players battle itout for $110,000.

Sixty-four professional women pool playersfrom across the globe will compete for the cash,including number one ranked British native AllisonFisher; number two ranked Karen Corr of Ireland, #3ranked Jeanette Lee, AKA “The Black Widow,” num-

ber four ranked Helena Thornfeldt of Sweden, andthe Seminole Hard Rock’s own “Texas Tornado”Vivian Villarreal, ranked fifth.

Also competing will be top player and poolpersonality Ewa Laurance, inducted earlier this yearinto the Billiard Congress of America (BCA) Hall ofFame–only the fourth woman in history to be so hon-ored. The local favorite, Ming Ng, is ranked twenty-fourth and is a house pro for nearby HollywoodBilliards, and twelfth ranked Sarah Ellerby of GreatBritain, a recent Central Florida transplant, will alsocompete.

Event competition is scheduled during theday Thursday and Friday Sept. 9–10 from 10 a.m.–5p.m. and in the evening from 6 p.m.–11:30 p.m. All-day tickets for Thursday and Friday are $20 for VIPseating and $10 for general admission. ESPN tele-vised matches, including the quarter final, semi-final

and champi-onship match-es, will betaped onSaturday andSunday.

ThescheduleSaturday isfrom 3 p.m.–9p.m., andSunday from11 a.m.–7:30p.m. All-daytickets

Saturday and Sunday are $30 for VIP seating and $15for general admission. Tickets for all matches areavailable at Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster.com orcharge by phone: (954) 523-3309 in Broward, (305)358-5885 in Miami-Dade or (561) 966-3309 in PalmBeach. Multi-day event tickets will not be sold.

The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino islocated at One Seminole Way, just north of StirlingRoad on State Road 7 (U.S. 441) in Hollywood.Parking is free.

First Annual Sonny BillieMemorial Golf Tournament

The winning team (L-R): Bobby Frank, Ricky Doctor, Moses“Bigg Shot” Jumper, and Charles Cypress.

Michael Kelly

WPBA Billiard Tour Comes toSeminole Hard Rock

Final Rodeo of the SeasonDedicated to Caleb Custer Fletcher

By Emma BrownBRIGHTON — By the grace of a higher

power, the Brighton reservation and the East IndianRodeo Association survived Hurricane Charley,which ripped through Florida on Friday August 13and allowed the kids buckle series rodeo to be heldon Saturday August 14.

Even though there was a little more water onthe grounds than usual, the rodeo was a success. Thewinner in each event was awarded a buckle and acash prize. This rodeo is held to assist the associationyear end winners with their trip to California to com-pete in the Indian National Finals Rodeo that will be

held in October.Below are the rodeo results.Senior Steer Undercoating: 1.Hilliard

Gopher; Peewee Barrels: 1. Kalgary Johns, 2. SeanOsceola, 3. Chastity Harmon; Junior Barrels: 1.Acealyn Youngblood, 2. Andre Jumper, 3. Blevyn’sJumper; Senior Barrels: 1. Kaitlen Lee; JuniorBareback: 1. Jacoby Johns, 2. Seth Randolph;Dummy Calf Roping: 1. Kalgary Johns, 2. AhnieJumper, 3. Michael Garcia; Calf Riding: 1. Blevyn’sJumper, 2. Andre Jumper, 3. Josh Johns; MuttonBusting: 1. Kalgary Johns, 2. Sean Osceola, 3.Chastity Harmon; Steer Riding: 1. Andrew Holmes.

Eastern Indian Rodeo AssociationKid’s Buckle Series Rodeo

The Seminole Tribune 12 September 3, 2004

bull-ride because it was such a thrill for her. Once shewas thrown from a bull, but she wasn’t really hurt;she just couldn’t wait for the next chance to rideagain.”

Doctor’s passion was bull riding, eventhough her mother Colleen Osceola didn’t approvebecause it was just so dangerous.

“She would have been very proud of thisevent and all the brave girls that participated heretoday,” Osceola said.

She was also an avid NFL football fan; sheespecially liked the Buffalo Bills team, and enjoyedgoing to the games with her step-dad, Dan OsceolaJr., a big Dolphin fan. They enjoyed the camaraderieof ragging on each other’s team during the games andafter.

One of her good friends was Cherelee Hall,the former Miss Seminole. The two attended the

same school together in St. Petersburg, Fla. Doctorwas a great jingle dress dancer at community eventsfor almost six years with her legion of friends wholoved hanging out with her.

David DeHass recalled that Doctor wouldoften ask why the tribe did not sponsor an all girlrodeo. The tribe eventually honored her request bymemorializing this wonderful event in her honor.Doctor will be well remembered by the loving peopleshe left behind and the strangers that got to know herthrough the touching stories and the short-term lega-cy she left behind. Her spirit will live on through thisgreat rodeo event.

Adorable 3-year old, Madison Osceola triedher best in the Barrel Racing event. Christina Osceolawas very active in this all girls Rodeo event.Christina Diaz won first place for Jr. calf riding.Boogie Jumper won first place in Sr. SteerUndecorating, and second place in Sr. Breakaway

Roping competition.Everyone agreed it was a lot of fun and big

congratulations to all the winners. Here are the finalresults from the 2nd annual Tiffany Doctor MemorialAll Girl Rodeo:

Pee WeeAll Around: 1. Courtney Gore, 2. Calgary

Jumper, 3. Lauren Taft; Mutton Busting’: 1. CalgaryJumper, 2. Courtney Gore; Hairpin: 1. CourtneyGore, 2. Lauren Taft, 3. Calgary Jumper; Barrel Race:1. Calgary Jumper, 2. Lauren Taft; Four PoleBending: 1. Lauren Taft, 2. Courtney Gore.Junior

All Around: 1. Lexi Peaden; Barrel Race: 1.Lexi Peaden, 17.744, 2. Taylor Moulden, 18.143, 3.Macy Culligan, 18.149, 4. Giania Orsi, 18.56; PoleBending: 1. Lexi Peaden, 22.694, 2. Taylor Moulden,24.233, 3. Marcy Culligan, 24.515; Goat Tying: 1.Lexi Peaden, 18.86; 2. Marcy Culligan, 23.05; SteerUndercoating (No Winner-Ground Money): 1.Christina Diaz, 2. Giania Orsi, 3. Kindall Tindell, 4.

Diamond Bergeron;Calf Riding: 1.Christina Diaz, 2.Kindall Tindell.Youth

All Around:1. Jennifer Deveaugh;Breakaway Roping(No Winner-GroundMoney): 1. SaraAnderson, 2. RebaOsceola, 3. LeannaBillie, 4. JennaAddams; Goat Tying:1. Bobby JoHaverland, 12.66, 2.Jennifer Deveaugh,17.22, 3. ShelbyDeHass, 17.7; SteerUndercoating: 1.Paige Pohlie, 4.04; 2.Sara Anderson, 11.83,3. Reba Osceola,12.27, 4. JenniferDeveaugh, 13.31; BullRiding: 1. JenniferDeveaugh, 64, 2.Megan Gonsalves, 51,3. Shelby DeHass, 50;Barrel Race: 1. BobbyJo Haverland, 15.954,2. Jennifer Deveaugh,16.265, 3. Paige

Pohlie, 16.62, 4. Nicki Zee, 16.975; Pole Bending: 1.Nicki Zee, 22.429, 2. Amanda Norman, 22.905, 3.Jennifer Deveaugh, 24.399, 4. Stephanie Romans,24.617.SeniorAll Around: 1.Lynette Tindell; Barrel Race: 1.Michelle Nesselt, 15.927, 2. Laverne Jones, 16.212,3. Laura Babawicz, 16.219, 4. Lanette Tindell,16.424; Pole Bending: 1. Lynette Tindell, 22.073, 2.Stephanie Sullivan, 27.063, 3. Julie Vining, 27.96;Breakaway Roping: 1. Lori Brinker, 4.75, 2. BoogieJumper, 5.96, 3. Lynette Tindell, 14.71; Goat Tying:1. Marlene Burchard, 14.93, 2. Lynette Tindell, 17.8,3. Holly Ogelsby, 20.59; Steer Undercoating: 1.Boogie Jumper, 2.77, 2. Julie Viking, 3.54, 3. LoriBrinker, 18.05; Team Roping: 1. Stephanie Sullivanand Holly Oglesby, 55.89; Bull Riding: 1. JulieViking, 53; 2. Cory Lupo, 48.

�RodeoContinued from page 1

Diamond Bergeron races through the barrels.Felix DoBosz

Madison Osceola gets set to ride.Felix DoBosz

By Kenny BayonBOCA RATON, FL — Down, set, hut!

That’s what Seminole citizen Jarrid Smith will hearwhen he hikes the football for the first time as start-ing center for the Florida Atlantic University (FAU)Owls.

Wearing his number 72 blue and white jer-sey, Smith will make his debut on Sept. 4 as he steps

on the field against the University of Hawaii, inOahu, Hawaii, where he will make his first collegiatestart as a red-shirted freshman.

The Brighton resident worked very hard thissummer to earn a starting position. He spent the sum-mer both at school and at home to train for theupcoming season. He built himself up to an athleticsix-foot-three-inch, 268 pound blocking machine.

Smith graduated from Okeechobee High,and was a star in football, basketball and a track andfield shot putter and discus thrower. After highschool, he was given only one opportunity to contin-ue his love of football. The only school to offer him ascholarship was FAU. He intends to repay them byworking harder than anyone else on the team.

Parents Camillia Smith Osceola and CurtisOsceola have always known their son was going tobe special. Camillia had said that even when Jarredwas as young as 10 years, he always took it uponhimself to make sure everything was right, even if itmeant getting on his mom to make sure he wasn’tlate for practice.

“His coaches were always in awe of hiswork ethic and determination.” says Camillia. “Hewas always taking the initiative to make sure busi-ness was taken care of. He never messed around

when it was time to be serious.”As of now, he has no major, but after a

recent visit with Big Cypress Councilman DavidCypress, he plans to look into receiving his degree inpolitical science. This will help him in what he even-tually wants to do, which is to help his tribe.

I sat down with Jarred one day before prac-tice to ask him a few questions:Kenny Bayon: How does it feel to be a role model forthe young children in the tribe?Jarrid Smith: It’s a motivation factor to help me keepgoing during the rough times when I’m really tired orI just don’t feel like practicing. I want to make surethe youth have someone that they could look up toand see on TV doing what I love. It wasn’t easy, butit was worth it. You can do anything if you put yourmind to it and want it bad enough.KB: How does it feel to play for a legendary coachlike Howard Schnellenberger?JS: It’s really good because of all the experience thathe has coaching at all different levels such as majorcollege football where he won the national champi-onship with the Miami Hurricanes in ‘83 to being aprofessional coach. I learn something new everydayfrom him and I feel really lucky to have him as myhead coach.

KB: Starting as a red-shirted freshman for an up andcoming program would you say you’re thrilled at thischance to be on the first team?JS: It’s real exciting. I knew that I had a chance tostart after practicing last year. I had the confidencethat I could go out there and produce and that I canget the job done. All I wanted was the opportunity toshow what I can do.

Tribal Citizen Makes FootballDebut Playing for FAU Owls

Jarrid Smith making practice runs.Felix DoBosz

Smith is thrilled to play football with the Owls.Felix DoBosz

By Shelley MarmorHOLLYWOOD — On Thursday August

26, the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino held apress event to get the word out that the businesses atthe Seminole Paradise will be opening their doorsbefore the end of the year. All stores, restaurants,

bars, night clubs, and more are all slated to officiallyopen by November 2004.

TThe $80 million Seminole Paradise islocated on the east side of the Hard Rock Hotel &Casino. It will feature 350,000 square feet of space,and is currently completely pre-leased to businesses.The Seminole Paradise will create approximately1,000 new jobs through the various businesses thatwill open there.

Some of the busi-nesses that will make upthe Seminole Paradiseinclude: Hard Rock Live!,Hooters, Ben & Jerry’s IceCream, Quicksilver,Ritchie Swimwear,Hollywood Choppers,Murphy’s Law Irish Puband Headliners ComedyClub, to name just a few.

The only part ofthe Seminole Paradise thatwill not open by Nov.2004 is the Hard RockLive!, which should becompleted in 2005. TheHard Rock Live! is a6,000-seat venue that willhost live concerts andother events.

Jim Allen, CEOof Gaming Operations,opened the presentationsaying the Seminole HardRock is one of the finestfacilities he has ever been apart of, and expects the Seminole Paradise to be thesame.

He acknowledged the efforts of developersThe Cordish Co. and the tribal council in making

Seminole Paradise possible. Hollywood CouncilmanMax B. Osceola Jr. was present, and said a fewwords to the crowd.

“The natives and the Seminoles welcomeyou,” Osceola said.

Jo North attended, representing theSeminole OkaleeMuseum &Village, which willalso be part ofSeminole Paradise.It will be locatedon the northeastside of SeminoleParadise.

CordishCo. Executive VicePresident JoeWeinberg alsoattended. TheCordish Co., aBaltimore, Md.-based company,developed both theHollywood andTampa SeminoleHard Rock Hotel& Casino’s.

Weinbergcalled theSeminoleParadise “one ofthe preeminentrestaurant, enter-tainment, retailprojects in thecountry,” saying itwill be “the adulttheme park forSouth Florida.

Representatives from Jazziz magazine,which focuses on jazz music, also attended. Jazzizmagazine will be opening a night club of the samename in Seminole Paradise.

They brought with them internationallyrenown jazz master flutist Nestor Torres. Torresdonated a flute to the Hard Rock, which he also auto-graphed and played a few notes on before presentingit to Max Osceola Jr., who thanked him for the flute.

Torres said he is excited because he andother fellow musicians “will get to make music [atJazziz].”

Hard Rock Prepares for Seminole Paradise

Jazz flutist Nestor Torres (right) presents a signed flute to Max B. Osceola.Felix DoBosz

The 44 businesses making up Seminole Paradise surround the beautifulParadise Lake.

Felix DoBosz

The Seminole Tribune 13 September 3, 2004

Future home of the Hooters restaurant at Seminole Paradise.Felix DoBosz

The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino towers over the nearly-complete Seminole Paradise complex.Felix DoBosz

The Seminole Tribune 14 September 3, 2004

HOLLYWOOD

Position: A/P Data Entry ClerkDepartment: AccountingPosition Opens: 4-19-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: AccountantDepartment: Corp BoardPosition Opens: 8-9-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: Diabetes Management SpecialistDepartment: HealthPosition Opens: 7-12-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: Culture Exhibitor (Seminole orMiccosukee tribal citizen only)Department: Okalee VillagePosition Opens: 7-26-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: $12 per hour

Position: RodmanDepartment: Real EstatePosition Opens: 8-16-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: $10–$11 per hour, with benefits

Position: AccountantDepartment: AccountingPosition Opens: 4-5-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: CarpenterDepartment: HousingPosition Opens: 7-26-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: Maintenance Mechanic IIDepartment: HousingPosition Opens: 7-26-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: HVAC Appliance MechanicDepartment: HousingPosition Opens: 8-9-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: Surveillance SpecialistDepartment: GamingPosition Opens: 8-2-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: Maintenance SupervisorDepartment: HousingPosition Opens: 8-16-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: $10 per hour, with benefits

Position: Tour GuideDepartment: Okalee VillagePosition Opens: 8-16-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: System AdministratorDepartment: Information SystemsPosition Opens: 8-2-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: Programmer AnalystDepartment: Information SystemsPosition Opens: 8-2-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: Alligator Wrestler and WildlifeHandler (F/T & P/T)Department: Okalee VillagePosition Opens: 7-26-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with experience

Position: Animal Caretaker (F/T & P/T)Department: Okalee VillagePosition Opens: 7-26-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: $8 per hour

Position: Gift Shop Attendant/CashierDepartment: Okalee VillagePosition Opens: 7-26-04Position Closes: When filled

Salary: $8 per hour

Position: Janitor/MaintenanceDepartment: Okalee VillagePosition Opens: 7-26-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with experience

Position: PlumberDepartment: HousingPosition Opens: 6-7-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: $7 per hour

Position: Snake HandlerDepartment: Okalee VillagePosition Opens: 7-26-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with experience

Position: Birds of Prey HandlerDepartment: Okalee VillagePosition Opens: 7-26-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: $10 per hour, with benefits

Position: Environmental HealthSpecialist/Administrative AssistantDepartment: HealthPosition Opens: 6-1-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: Counselor IIDepartment: Family ServicesPosition Opens: 3-22-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: Advanced Registered NursePractitionerDepartment: HealthPosition Opens: 6-21-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: Health Education CoordinatorDepartment: HealthPosition Opens: 7-12-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: Foster Care Team SupervisorDepartment: Family ServicesPosition Opens: 6-1-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

BIG CYPRESS

Position: Tour GuideDepartment: Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki MuseumPosition Opens: 10-13-03Position Closes: 10-27-03Salary: $7.50/hour, with benefits

Position: Sales Associate (F/T & P/T)Department: Corp. Board, GasPosition Opens: 10-21-03Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with experience, withbenefits

Position: Medical ReceptionistDepartment: HealthPosition Opens: 6-21-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: Maintenance Worker IIDepartment: HealthPosition Opens: 6-1-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: Environ Health FacilitiesManagement RepresentativeDepartment: HousingPosition Opens: 3-22-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: Art/Music TeacherDepartment: Ahfachkee SchoolPosition Opens: 5-3-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: Operator Maintenance TraineeDepartment: UtilitiesPosition Opens: 3-15-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: $18,700 annually with benefits

Position: Micro Computer SupportSpecialistDepartment: Information SystemsPosition Opens: 6-1-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: Administrative AssistantDepartment: Ah-Tha-Thi-Ki MuseumPosition Opens: 9-16-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: $20,800 annually with benefits

Position: Instructional AideDepartment: Ahfachkee SchoolPosition: Still availableSalary: Negotiable with experience, withbenefits

Position: Elementary Music TeacherDepartment: Ahfachkee SchoolPosition: Still availableSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: Planning RepresentativeDepartment: HousingPosition Opens: 6-1-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with experience, withbenefits

Position: Project CoordinatorDepartment: UtilitiesPosition Opens: 5-3-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: $48,000 annually with benefits

Position: Transfer Station OperatorTraineeDepartment: UtilitiesPosition: Still AvailableSalary: $18,720 annually with benefits

Position: Environmental Health SpecialistDepartment: Information SystemsPosition Opens: 7-12-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: Nutritionist/DieticialDepartment: HealthPosition Opens: 7-12-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: Food Preparation and ServiceAssociateDepartment: Corp, Board, GasPosition: Still AvailableSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: Middle School TeacherDepartment: AhfachkeePosition Opens: 5-3-2004Position Closes: when filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: Assistant Store ManagerDepartment: Corp. Board, GasPosition: Still AvailableSalary: Negotiable with benefits

BRIGHTON

Position: Brighton/Ft. Pierce Lieutenant Department: Seminole PoliceDepartmentPosition Closes: 8-6-04Salary: $50,529.26–$78,387.47, depend-ing on qualifications

Position: Transfer Station OperatorTraineeDepartment: UtilitiesPosition: Still AvailableSalary: $18,720 annually with benefits

Position: Project CoordinatorDepartment: UtilitiesPosition Opens: 5-3-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: $48,000 annually with benefits

Position: Counselor IIDepartment: Family ServicesPosition Opens: 3-22-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: Lifeguard (P/T)Department: RecreationPosition Opens: 5-4-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: $10 per hour

Position: Weed Control TechnicianDepartment: Water ResourcesPosition Opens: 5-17-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: $9.50 per hour, with benefits

Position: Lifeguard (P/T)Department: RecreationPosition Opens: 5-4-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: $10 per hour

Position: Tag Clerk (F/T)Department: HealthPosition Opens: 6-1-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: $11.50 per hour, with benefits

Position: Transfer Station CompostSupportDepartment: Family ServicesPosition Opens: 9-16-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: $30,000 with benefits

Position: Maintenance WorkerDepartment: Corp, Board, GasPosition Opens: 7-26-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: Surveillance SpecialistDepartment: GamingPosition Opens: 8-2-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: Distribution/Collection SystemCrew LeaderDepartment: UtilitiesPosition Opens: 5-3-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: $40,000 annually with benefits

Position: Head Teacher and CertifiedHead TeacherDepartment: PreschoolPosition Opens: 4-26-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: Bus DriverDepartment: EducationPosition Opens: 6-7-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: Store ManagerDepartment: Corp, Gas, BoardPosition Opens: 7-12-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: Teacher AideDepartment: PreschoolPosition Opens: 4-19-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits and edu-cation

Position: Tribal Outreach Worker IIDepartment: Family Services, HealthPosition: Still availableSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: Tribal Outreach Worker IIDepartment: Family Services, HealthPosition Opens: 4-19-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: Maintenance Mechanic IIDepartment: HousingPosition Opens: 7-26-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: Bus MonitorDepartment: EducationPosition Opens: 8-9-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

IMMOKALEE

Position: Lieutenant Department: Seminole PoliceDepartmentPosition Closes: 8-6-04Salary: $50,529.26–$78,387.47, depend-ing on qualifications

Position: Counselor II

Department: Family ServicesPosition Opens: 3-22-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: Head TeacherDepartment: PreschoolPosition Opens: 8-16-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: Negotiable with benefits

Position: Operator Maintenance TraineeDepartment: UtilitiesPosition Opens: 3-15-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: $18,700 annually with benefits

Position: Water Treatment Plant OperatorDepartment: UtilitiesPosition Opens: 7-26-04Position Closes: When filledSalary: $17–$20 per hour with benefits

Position: Teacher IDepartment: PreschoolPosition Opens: 11-24-03Position Closes: 12-08-03Salary: Negotiable with experience, withbenefits

For an application or more information, please contact the Human Resources Department at (954) 967-3403, The Seminole Tribe of Florida is a DRUG FREE WORKPLACE, drug screening is a requirement for employment.WE EXERCISE NATIVE AMERICAN PREFERENCE.

Position: Police OfficerStarting Salary: $39,591Locations: Big Cypress, Hollywood,Immokalee and Fort Pierce.Police Officer position available. Mustalready have his/her certification. Needsto be a citizen or have alien resident card,19 years or older, with a high schooldiploma or GED. Shift work. Benefitsinclude PPO health insurance, life insur-ance, 401K, take home car program,clothing allowance. If you are interested,please call (954) 967-8900.

Position: Police DispatchersStarting salary: $29,693Location: Big CypressApplicants need to be a U.S. citizen, orhave an alien resident card, be 19 years orolder, and have a high school diploma orGED. This position is shift work. Tribalcitizens are preferred, but not required. Ifyou are interested, please call (954) 967-8900.

Position: Tampa Lieutenant, Brighton/Ft.Pierce LieutenantDepartment: Seminole PoliceDepartmentSalary: $50,529.26–$78,387.47, depend-ing on qualificationsWork Schedule: Flexible

Lead the Immokalee and BigCypress sergeants. Coach, mentor, edu-cate, teach, guide, and discipline (positiveand negative) sergeants. Develop commu-nity plans and projects. Take care ofdepartment issues, quality of life issues.Read reports, create policies and proce-dures, Administrative InvestigationsCreate schedules when needed for ser-geants. Maintain a good working relation-ship with department employees, supervi-sors, and other law enforcement agencies.Perform duties as deemed necessary bythe police chief.

The ideal candidate will have thefollowing qualities: excellent oral com-munication, five years with experience atthe rank of sergeant or above in a lawenforcement agency, 60 college credithours preferred, and willingness to travel.

Obtain application at theSeminole Police Department offices,3280 North 64 Avenue, Hollywood, FL33024; or call (954) 967-8900.Application and resume must be receivedby 4:30 p.m. on the closing date, August20.

How to apply:

Obtain application at 3280 North 64thAvenue, Hollywood, FL 33024, theSeminole Police Department offices, orcall (954) 967-8900. Application andresume must be received by 4:30pm onthe closing date for the position.

Police Department Jobs

Even a fish wouldn’t get caught if it kept it’s mouth shut.

Protect yourself from making a mistakePractice these simple phrases!

No, you can’t search my car.No, you can’t search my home.

No, I don’t want to talk with you and Idon’t want to cooperate with you.

You can call my lawyer.

The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should be based solely upon advertisement. Guy J. Seligman

worked as a Certified Legal Intern in both the State Attorney and Public Defenders offices in Dade and Broward County;

he has been in private practice for 16 years. He graduated from Nova Southeastern University Law School in 1987. and

was admitted to the Florida Bar in 1988.

Call us now. Protect your rights.Once you give them up you never get them back.Call Guy Seligman 954-760-7600 24 hours a day

If you have-Been searched without your permission -Had your car searched without permission -Been pulled over for no reason-Had police walk into your house without a warrant-Had DCF or the Police try to get in your home without a warrant;

Are you a Seminole tribal citizen interest-ed in a management career in the hotel and casinoindustry? If so, apply with the career developmentprogram. For more information or to apply, contactBetty Jones Goosens at (954) 797-5459 or (954)214-0163.

What is the tribal career development pro-gram?

The tribal career development programprepares you for a career within Seminole gamingand hospitality. No prior experience in gaming andhospitality is required. Trainees learn from a blendof on-the-job technical training, specialized class-room training, seminars and workshops dedicatedto management’s best practices, and work experi-ence.

How long is the training program?The program lasts two or three years,

depending on your background, experience andhow rapidly you progress.

What are the main phases of the training?Phase I of the program is a one or two

year initiative comprised of on-the-job training,specialized classroom training, seminars and devel-opment activities all designed to provide the partic-ipant with a variety of learning opportunities.

Phase II is an intensive, advanced oneyear program open to those who have successfullycompleted phase I. The participant becomesimmersed in the business of hotel and casino oper-ations. For each area of specialization, the partici-pant will be working in the functional area and

complete an assignment under the guidance of themanager, to solve a problem or improve the opera-tion within that area.

What are the eligibilityrequirements?

The program is open to allwho meet the following three cri-teria: 18 years of age, Seminoletribal citizen and complet-ed high school diplomaor GED. Placement inthe program will be ona first come, first servebasis.

At which loca-tion will I train?

Placementwill be at any of thefollowing six loca-tions: Brighton Casino,Coconut CreekCasino, HollywoodClassic Casino,Immokalee Casino,Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino-Tampa, orSeminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino-Hollywood.However, certain training portions can only becompleted at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel &Casino-Tampa or Hollywood, and you will berequired to do a portion of your training at one ofthose locations.

Jobs For Tribal Citizens

The Seminole Tribune 15 September 3, 2004

Wedding

Poems

When submitting a birthday, baby, or marriage announcement,you must include the names of both parents, grandparents,

and/or other family members. Also, please use the actual nameof the person you are referring to. Include your address so we

can mail your photos back to you. Thank you.

Important Information About Submissions

Happy Birthday

For Sale1998 Yamaha Royal Star motor-

cycle. 4-Cylinder 1,300 cc with 28,000miles. This collector's bike was last man-ufactured in 2000. Garage kept andincludes all maintenance records. Haswon many trophies and comes withleather-like lockable side bags, two seats,and two windshields. $4,000 worth ofchrome! Maintenance-free drive shaft.Black studded seats, night purple LEDlights, and new tires. $9,800 firm. ContactNery at (954) 232-5714.

Junk Daddy

Out there he is they sayUncontrollable rage by first drinkBut normal during the dayHis impossible task can only be completedAt the end of his first flaskTimber is the war cry before the intoxicat-ing crashFollowed by belching sounds of a clown'slaughShould I hide? Yes…hide from your junk daddyAm I a child of the Lord–or of a drunk?Ninety proof through the roofGo to thoughts that I stunkRed boy with his breath smelly

Claims to be a poet like MachiavelliDown the hatch; brew another batch, daddycriesMovies tomorrow daddy says, but daddyliesDaddy claims that daddy triedAnd as his child I could seeThe bulls*t in daddy’s eyesNow as a daddy myselfI seem to be keeping daddy's tradition aliveThis daddy is too addicted to the witch’sbrewAnd I seem to be nowThe daddy that the child too chooses todespise

—Markell Billie

Happy 12th birthday to RowdyOsceola on July 18. Grandpa RudyOsceola and his wife traveled toOklahoma for Rowdy’s celebration.Rowdy sends a big hello to GrandmaLouise, relatives, friends, and theSeminole Tribe.

We would like to wish your sonHeith Lawrence a happy 1st birthdayon September 1. Watching you grow thispast year has brought us a lot of joy. Youhave truly been a blessing in our life.

Loving you always,Mommy and Daddy

Happy 3rd birthday to JosiahDee, A very special gift to us all.

We love you very much,Mom, Luis, Isaiah, Cierra,

Aunt Karen, Aunt Sharon, Uncle Wes,Nana, Grandma Peg and Tine, Papa,and the rest of the Deer clan family

We would like to wish Mrs.Nettie Stewart a very happy birthdayon Sept. 9. We love you very much andwe want you to know that whenever youneed someone to talk to, or just need agood laugh to brighten up your day, weare here for you. Don’t worry Grandma,Grandpa Sugarfoot is doing okay; he is ingood hands. You know he remembersyour birthday. He is celebrating rightalong with us. Have fun on your day also.

Love always,Your grandchildren, Raylene,

Keishawn, Raymond III

Happy 23rd birthday to ournumber one daddy Raymond C. StewartJr. We hope you have a fun day becauseyou deserve it. Dad we love you with allour hearts, and hope you have manymore.

Love always,Raylene C. Stewart, Keishawn

C. Stewart, Raymond C. Stewart III,LaDonna A. Tucker

Baby Les

My how time fliesSeems like only yesterday you came intomy lifeHolding you, wiping tears from your eyesI gave your mom a kiss and said “thankyou”Hard to believe four years have comethroughI haven’t seen you in a minute

Grandma says you look fineJohanna writes and says you’re biggerevery timeSome say you look like another meBut I know that’s not trueBecause there’s only one Baby Les, andson that’s youWishing you a happy birthday onSeptember 13

—Leslie J. Gopher

Kaylee

You are so specialAnd your teens have not begunNot of my bodyBut in my heart you’re the first oneWe met jest before you turned sevenYou same into my life like an angel sentfrom heavenFrom the start we became home teamMom, you and me, that was a dreamYou would call me “Les” when you gotmadLater that night you’d come lay with medadI remember your fear of scary rides

I would say “I’ll be with you till it'sthrough”My promise was “I’ll never let anythinghappen to you”Now you ride more than meA beautiful young lady you’re turning outto beHave fun as you age another year onSeptember 26thSorry I had to missHope to be there for the nextWe’ll just say wait and seeBest wishes to my babyHappy birthday Kaylee

—Leslie J. Gopher

Over

I would say it would never be overI just knew she’d never give me as coldshoulderHer letter I must have read a thousandtimesI would study every word, memorizeevery lineOnce we planned to grow old togetherHard to believe all that is throughSaid goodbye, no more me and youAs I wrote this my eyes would waterThinking of our son and our daughterI promised myself: A family if I had, I

would keepLife is shallow yet waters run deepLying at night, wondering where I wentwrongWishing somewhere in her heart I couldbelongI was who I could be, I am what I amShe made me a much better manAdvice to anyone who someday findsloveHold it tight, never let goOnce it's over, it’s painful, trust me Iknow

—Leslie J. Gopher

The Way I Feel

When I was younger I always felt aloneI would walk by myself with my headhanging lowI was always downThinking to myself that nobody didn’twant me aroundThat is when I met the most beautifulwoman in my life todayAs time passed we fell more and more inloveNow we have three precious childrenWho I love very muchI thank her everyday for giving me thechance to be a fatherBecause I thought it would never be thatwayI love my woman and children very muchSometimes I think how lucky I am forcoming across this womanOr how blessed I amThese are times when we have our baddaysBut the love that we have for each otherAlways brings us togetherI think we are a perfect match and I neverwant it to endWe have a good relationship but it can

always be betterMy children bring me a lot of good andhappinessAnd that is something good for someonelike meChildren and a nice woman are very goodto haveBecause joyful days and happiness it willalways bringI love my family a whole bunchIt makes me feel like now I have some-thing to live forI know I have to fix myself and do betterOr they might show me the doorI love you allMichelle, Michaela, Lil’ Myron and MyaAnd don’t y’all forget that I will be thereuntil my time has comeWe have a really good friendshipMy family and meI never want to lose thatBecause I don’t know what I’ll do or howI’ll beI love you all very much–Michelle,Michaela, Lil’ Myron and Mya

Only Me,—Myron Cypress

Alice Smith and Curtis Hardyare to be wed at Lawtey CorrectionalInstitution in November of 2004.

To Curtis, the man I love, youhave shown me the true meaning of love;to be there for each other and put faithand love in our Heavenly Father.

Haskell Associationof Alabama

Reunion 2004Haskell Alumni Association of

Oklahoma of the Haskell Indian NationsUniversity invites all Haskell alumni andfriends to join us at the annual reunion.The reunion will take place Oct 29–31 atthe Biltmore Hotel,1-40 & Meridian, Oklahoma City, Okla.

For more information, pleasecontact Leon Yahola at (918) 616-3757 orKenneth Scott at (918) 628-0969. Golferscan contact Simon Mitchell at (405) 672-7923.

Please pass this information toall alumni and friends!

NOTICE OF FINDING OFNO SIGNIFICANT IMPACTAND NOTICE OF INTENT

TO REQUEST RELEASE OF FUNDS

This publication covers two separate procedural requirements for activities to be undertaken by theSeminole Tribe of Florida, responsible entity (the “RE”) as follow:

RE proposes to construct or expand and renovate four (4) single family homes located on scattered sitesin the Big Cypress Seminole Indian Reservation within the confines of Hendry County in the State ofFlorida, five (5) single family homes located in a housing development in the Immokalee Seminole IndianReservation within the confines of Collier County in the State of Florida, and four (4) single family homesin the Brighton Seminole Indian Reservation within the confines of Glades County in the State of Florida.

Funding for construction, expansion or renovation is provided by Indian Housing Block Grant Program(IHBG) for Federal Fiscal Years (FFY) 2002, grant number 02IT1228220 in the amount of $87,911 and2003, grant number 03IT1228220 in the amount of $1,669,500, as provided for by the Native AmericanHousing and Self Determination Act (NAHASDA), which is administered by the United StatesDepartment of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

RE has assumed responsibility for environmental review, including but not limited to an EnvironmentalAssessment, as required by HUD regulations 24 C.F.R. Part 58. RE has determined that the Project willhave no significant impact on the human environment. Therefore, an Environmental Impact Statementunder the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) is not required. Accordingly, as requiredby 24 C.F.R. Part 58, RE hereby provides this Notice of Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI).Project information including the Environmental Review Record is available for examination and reviewat the RE address below. The public or a public agency should address any written comments or objec-tions to this determination within fifteen (15) days from the date of this Notice to RE address. All suchcomments will be considered by the RE prior to completion of its environmental certification and sub-mission of its Request for Release of Funds.

Address: Seminole Tribe of Florida, Housing Department, 6300 Stirling Road,Hollywood, FL 33024

Telephone: (954) 967-3800, Extension 1751

RE hereby provides Notice of Intent to Request Release of Funds (NOI/RROF); address comments to RE,same comment period as hereinabove. On or about the first day after the expiration of the comment peri-od provided hereinabove, the RE will submit a Request for Release of Funds (RROF) to HUD for therelease of IHBG funds under NAHASDA, grant numbers 02IT1228220 and 03IT1228220, awarded inFFY 2002 and 2003, to undertake the subject Project. Mitchell Cypress, Chairman of the Tribal Councilof RE will certify to HUD that it has fulfilled its responsibilities relevant to environmental review as pro-vided by 24 C.F.R. Part 58, and that he is an authorized official of RE and consents to accept the juris-diction of the Federal court if action is brought by HUD to enforce RE’s responsibilities. HUD’s approvalof the certification satisfies HUD’s responsibilities under NEPA and related laws and authorities andallows the RE to use program funds. HUD will accept objections to the release of funds and the RE’s cer-tification for a period of fifteen (15) days following the anticipated submission date or its actual receiptof the Request for Release of Funds, whichever is later, but only if the objections are relevant to any oneof four bases:

the certification was not executed by the Certifying Officer of the REthe RE has omitted a step or failed to make a decision or finding required by HUD regulations

at 24 CFR Part 58the grant recipient has committed funds or incurred costs not authorized by 24 CFR Part 58

before approval of a release of funds by HUD; oranother Federal agency acting pursuant to 40 CFR Part 1054 has submitted a written finding that

the Project is unsatisfactory from the standpoint of environmental quality.

Objections must be prepared and submitted in accordance with 24 C.F.R. Part 58 and should be addressedto:

Office of Native American Programs, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, 77West Jackson Boulevard, Chicago, IL 60604-3507 Attention: Grants Management Specialist andElton Jones

Commenter must specify which notice the comments relate to, i.e. FONSI, or NOI/RROF.

Classification ofOffenses

Classification ofOffenses

TotalArrests

JUVENILES

Male Female Male Female

ADULTS RACE

Narcotics Confiscated During Arrests

TotalNumber ofOffenses

Total ValuePropertyStolen

TotalArrests

JUVENILES

Male

Murder

Sex Offense

Robbery

Aggravated Battery

Battery

Burglary

Larceny

DUI

Stolen Property

Weapons Violation

Liquor Law Violation

Miscellaneous

Drugs (Possession / Sale)

Drug Type Amount Value

Marijuana (grams)

Cocaine (grams)

Crack Cocaine (grams)

Alprazolam / Xanax (pills)

Oxycodone (pills)

Oxycontin (pills)

Crystal Methamphetamines

Other Narcotics (pills)

Motor Vehicle Theft

Female Male Female Caucasian Black AsianAmericanIndian

White Black AsianAmericanIndian

ADULTS RACE

8 3 2 1 1 242 30 22 8 26 43 $2,11837 $15,569 9 5 4 8 19 $200,800 1 1 1

6 1 4 3 1 2

3 3 338 34 4 24 4 9 119 1 11 7 13 2 4

283.2 $14299.5 $5001.5 $1751 $11 $33

0.5 $254.5 $50

Seminole Police Department Crime StatisticsJuly 2004

The Seminole Tribune 16 September 3, 2004

Journalists, the National Association of BlackJournalists, along with NAJA held their ownindividual board meetings, banquets and elec-tions.

NAJA held several workshops as wellas signature events, such as the NAJA AwardsGala, NAJA Member’s General Assembly,National Museum of the American Indian(NMAI) Reception and NAJA’s 20thAnniversary celebration.

During the National Museum of theAmerican Indian reception, NAJA members gota chance to tour the soon to be completed250,000-square foot space and enjoy horsd’oeuvres and a series of films. The museum isa part of the Smithsonian Institution, and isslated to open to the public September 21. Formore information, please visithttp://www.nmai.si.edu.

The NAJA Awards Gala kicked offwith a silent auction of Native American arti-facts, books, paintings, and other items, fol-lowed by dinner, speeches and finally the pres-entation of awards. At this event NativeAmerican students and journalists are recog-nized and honored for their efforts in the pro-fessional journalism field or academic achieve-ments. Non-native journalists working in a trib-al media organization also participate in severalcategories during the competition.

The Seminole Tribune took home atotal of three awards. Virginia Mitchell, Editor-in-Chief, took second place, in the twice a

month category for newspaper general excel-lence, Melissa Sherman, Graphic Designer,won second place for general excellence of theTribune’s website, www.semtribe.com/tribune.Tribal citizen, Iretta Tiger, Reporter, won hon-orable mention in the individual photo fea-ture/multiple pictures category for a series ofphotos taken during the grand opening of theHard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood.

Congratulations to the communica-tions department for the hard work and dedica-tion in putting together the newspaper; team-work is the key. The Seminole Tribune’s excel-lence shined at this year’s as well as otheryears during the NAJA/UNITY celebration.

The Seminole Tribune 17 September 3, 2004

Mark Trahant andLori Edmo-Suppahrepresent NAJA onpanelsBy Shelley Marmor

WASHINGTON, DC —The UNITY 2004 conference broughtout some big name speakers, includ-ing Secretary of State Colin Powelland Richard D. Parsons, Chairmanand CEO of AOL Time Warner.

However, the two speakerswho drew the biggest crowds werePresident George W. Bush andDemocratic presidential nomineeSenator John Kerry. Both spoke at theWashington Convention Center, Bushon ThursdayAugust 6, andKerry on FridayAugust 7.

Thespeakers openedby discussingtheir respectiveplatforms andplans for thefuture of thecountry. Bushand Kerry alsoboth spoke aboutthe topics theyhave all along thecampaigntrail–terrorism,education andtaxes–however,they alsoanswered ques-tions proposed tothem by a panelof minority jour-nalists represent-ing the four organizations the com-

prise UNITYJournalists ofColor, Inc.

MarkTrahant, fromthe Shoshone-Bannock tribe inIdaho, repre-sented theNativeAmericanJournalistAssociation(NAJA) on theBush panel.Trahant is theeditorial pageeditor at theSeattle-PostIntelligencer.

“Mr. President, most schoolkids learn aboutgovernment fromthe context ofcity, county, stateand federal, andof course tribalgovernments arenot part of that atall,” Trahant said.“You have been agovernor and apresident, andyou have theunique experienceof looking at itfrom two direc-tions.”

“Whatdo you think trib-al sovereigntymeans in thetwenty-first cen-tury, and how dowe resolve con-flicts betweentribes and federal

and state governments?” he asked

Bush.The

presidentreplied: “Tribalsovereigntymeans that;sovereignty.You’ve beengiven sover-eignty, andyou’re viewedas a sovereignentity, andtherefore, therelationshipbetween thefederal govern-ment and tribesis one betweensovereign enti-

ties.”The previous day, presiden-

tial hopeful Kerry also brieflyaddressed tribal sovereignty, saying hewould “restore respect for tribal sov-ereignty.” He also pledged, if elected,to appoint Native Americans to keyposition in his cabinet.

He also took a question fromthe NAJA representative Lori Edmo-Suppah, former editor of the Sho-BanNews. Edmo-Suppah, also of the fromthe Shoshone-Bannock tribe in Idaho,asked if Kerry thought NativeAmerican tribes should have to getauthorization from the state to receivehomeland security funding.

He responded: “Tribes wereleft out of the Homeland Security Actof 2003, despite efforts to include lan-guage that would have recognized thegovernment-to-government relation-ship. As a result, tribes must gothrough state and local governmentsto obtain funding for bio-terrorism,emergency preparedness and othercritical programs… Some [funds]need to go directly to the tribe.”

Native AmericanJournalists Associationsponsors ‘Covering NativeAmerica’ and other jour-nalism seminarsBy Shelley Marmor

WASHINGTON, DC — The UNITYconference’s first event kicked off on Friday July30, with the Asian American JournalistAssociation’s (AAJA) J Camp, a journalism campfor students and prospective journalists. This wasthe first event of the 10 day long conference, withabout a hundred other events that would follow.

UNITY, Inc. is an umbrella organizationthat represents the Native American JournalistAssociation (NAJA), the National Association of

Black Journalists, the National Association ofHispanic Journalists as well as the AAJA. UNITY2004 was the largest UNITY conference to date,in addition to being the largest journalism confer-ence ever, with estimates of up to 7,000 attendees.

Many attendees arrived to the conferenceon Wednesday August 4, the first official date ofthe conference. Registration began at 8 a.m., andmany seminars followed. Some of these seminarsincluded “Covering Changing Communities: ALeadership Seminar,” and “Who Is AnAmerican?–A ‘Let’s Do It Better!’ Workshop onRace and Ethnicity.”

NAJA coordinated three tribal mediainstitute workshops on Wednesday and two onThursday. These two seminars “Covering NativeAmerica” and “Free Press in Indian Country”were designed to help non-native reporters whenthey cover stories on native reservations.

Panelists included Paul DeMane,Managing Editor and CEO of the newspaper

News FromIndian Country,Derrick Henry,Internet NewsManager of theonline news siteNewsday.comand Frank J.King III,Publisher/Editorof the newspaperThe Native Voice.

DeManeopened the“CoveringNative America”panel saying“this is a verybroad subject.”He reminded thejournalists in theaudience thatIndian Countryextends from thetip of South

American all the way up to the Arctic Circle, andincludes many different types of people.

He said that too many non-native jour-nalists rely on the same few sources, namelyVernon Bellcourt, Director of International Affairsfor the American Indian Movement GrandGoverning Council. However, he said that heshould not necessarily represent all of NativeAmerica.

“It's easy to call Vern Bellcourt up at anytime,” DeMane said. “He has something to sayabout everything. He will say something abouteverything. And he tends to be very colorful inwhatever he has to say. But it doesn’t necessarilyreflect the political opinion of the tribal leadershipfrom the top down… It doesn’t represent anythingexcept Vern Bellcourt’s opinion.”

He instead said journalists should consultthe National Congress of American Indians, anorganization that actually does represent severalhundred native tribes and can legitimately speakon their behalf. He also said that Bellcourt is agood source on many native issues, however, hisstressed that opinion should not be the only onebeing released to the public in the mainstreammedia.

King told a story about a non-nativewoman he knew who was covering a story on areservation. He said the reporter brought up someissues she has with her experience on the reserva-tion with that tribe’s chairman; saying she thoughtthe chairman was avoiding her questions becausehe did not look her in the eye.

King said he told the woman that it iscustomary for members to no look marriedwomen in the eye, and since the reporter was mar-ried, the chairman did not make eye contact.

“I had explained that to her, that that’sthe reaction you get from some of the older Indianleaders who grew up around those customs,” Kingsaid.

He said learning specific tribal customsbefore going to the reservation will help non-native reporters get the information they need. Hesaid these journalists should keep in mind thatNative Americans, though American, were raised

with different customs.Continuing with what King was taking

about, DeMane suggested non-native reportersestablish a connection, either between themselvesand the reservation they cover, or between theirnews organization and those on the reservation.

“Try to develop, at least initially, anunderstanding, a contact, an agreement, or some-thing between your organization and that tribalgovernment,” he said. “The other [suggestion] isto develop sources of information that are clan-destine and will lead you to something.”

A reporter then asked Henry how toestablish these communication lines if they justhave one story that they are sent out to cover on areservation. She said often times journalists do nothave the time, because of strict deadlines, toinvest much time into learning parts of anotherculture.

He suggested she look at what resourcesare available at the news organization she worksfor and see if they will help her to learn about“communities that are often underrepresented,”including Native Americans.

�NAJAContinued from page 1

The National Association of Hispanic Journalists, one of the four UNITY organiza-tions, hosted a salsa party that was open to all UNITY members to attend.

Adelsa Williams

Tribal citizen and former Seminole Tribune employee, Alexandra Frank (center) atthe NAJA Awards Banquet.

Adelsa Williams

The soon-to-be completed National Museum of theAmerican Indian in Washington, DC. It is slated to open onSeptember 21.

Adelsa Williams

Native drummers opened the NAJA awards ceremony.Adelsa Williams

Panelists (L-R) Frank J. King III, Derrick Henry and Paul DeMane led thediscussion during the Covering Native America seminar.

Adelsa Williams

UNITY Journalists of Color, Inc. Conference

UNITY President and Long Island, N.Y.Newsday.com editor, Ernest Sotomayor,spoke to NAJA members at the banquet.

Adelsa Williams

President George W. Bushwww.georgewbush.com

Senator John Kerrywww.johnkerry.com

Bush, Kerry Speak to Minority Journalistsat UNITY Conference

NAJA President Patty Talahongva speakingto NAJA members during the banquet.

Adelsa Williams

The Seminole Tribune 18 September 3, 2004

By Tommy BennLAKE WORTH, FL — The Historical

Society of Palm Beach County recently announcedthat a painting of a Seminole Cow Hunter, painted byMerari Martinez, as a winning entry in their FloridaHistorical Art Contest. Martinez is a fifth grade stu-dent of South Grade ElementarySchool in Lake Worth, Fla.

The contest was open toall 116,000 Palm Beach Countyfifth grade students. Thirty winningentries were chosen to be repro-duced on eight-by-ten foot vinylpanels, which will cover therestoration fence around the 1916Palm Beach County Courthouseduring its construction restorationin 2004 and 2005.

Seminole calendars, postcards and Seminole art collectedover the years and donated byJosephine Benn and photos by herson Thom Benn were used as visualsources of Seminole history bySouth Grade Elementary fifth gradestudents to create six differentSeminole paintings. Of all thepaintings completed by students,Martinez’s watercolor painting of aSeminole Cow Hunter was chosenfor submission to the HistoricalSociety’s contest, by the principalKeith Oswald of Lake Worth’sSouth Grade Elementary and the schools’ art teacherRebecca Hinson.

The Palm Beach fifth graders had varioussubject matter to chose their art topic from, includingFlorida pre- and post-Ice Age, early Native American(pre-Columbus), colonial Florida, the SeminoleIndian Wars, the Civil War in Florida, historical light-

houses and some thirty-plus other subjects ofFlorida’s vast history to chose from.

Martinez also submitted a print of herSeminole Cow Hunter to the Bak Middle School of

the Arts during her interview for admission to theprestigious school as a sixth grader. The mission ofthe school is to help educate the Palm Beach Countyfuture artists in various disciplines of the art world,communications, art, dance and music.

Admission to the Bak Middle School of the

Arts, a magnet middle school in Palm Beach County,is extremely competitive. Students undergo a rigorousapplication and interview process. Only about twen-ty-five percent of applicants are accepted. Martinezreceived news of her acceptance recently and shecredits her Seminole painting for helping her beingaccepting into the school. A dream comes true for the

young woman, a chance for her todevelop her Artistic skills andreceive an excellent education atthe same time.

A print of Martinez’sSeminole Cow Hunter was alsochosen by the Palm Beach CountySchool Board to be added to theirart collection. Another print of thepainting will be displayed in thegallery of the Palm Beach Postnewspaper. Another print of theSeminole Cow Hunter is currentlyon display at Lake Worth City Hall.

In May, Stanlo Johns, aSeminole tribal citizen visited theSouth Grade Elementary School toshare Seminole culture and heritagefirst hand with the fifth grade stu-dent body. He was greatly receivedby the young students who enjoyedhis sharing of his life experience asa Native American and member ofthe Seminole Tribe of Florida grow-ing up in and around the LakeOkeechobee area, on Phillip and

Stewart Iglrharts’ Bluefield Ranch.Johns explained the importance of an educa-

tion to the young audience and the importance ofeducation and the many doors of life it can open.

Fifth grader Merari Martinez’s watercolor painting of Seminole Cow Hunter won first prize in the FloridaHistorical Art Contest.

Seminole Painting Wins Notorietyfor Lake Worth Student

Nerlande Carenarc’s watercolor of Seminole Cow Hunter.

South Grade Elementary student Frances Gomez’s representation ofSeminole Cow Hunter.

The Seminole Tribune 19 September 3, 2004

The Seminole Tribune 20 September 3, 2004

By Felix DoBoszHOLLYWOOD — On Wednesday August

11, Tribal Treasurer Mike D. Tiger, along with otheremployees from the treasurer’s office, met with asmall group of Wachovia bank executives at theSeminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. They focusedon reinforcing the partnership and improving thegreat relationship that Wachovia Bank shares with theSeminole Tribe of Florida.

A couple dozen people gathered aroundsmall tables in the luxurious meeting room for thisparty. They talked about getting to know one anotheras they sipped beverages and took turns eating thedelicious little morsels that everyone there seemed toenjoy sampling.

Kent Ellert,Broward CountyPresident of Wachoviabanks, attended themeeting.

“We are gath-ered here in an evergrowing and equallybeneficial relationshipwith the tribe for whichwe are very grateful,”he said. “In addition tothat, I also am a mem-ber of the Floridadiversity council forWachovia Bank. Ourdiversity council doesthe mission by theawareness, education,and skills trainingfound understandingcultural differenceswithin our tribe. Wehave been in businessfor almost five years,we do a number ofprojects around ourmission, one of whichwe have twice a yearcelebration specificallyidentify differenceswithin our community.This fall we are educat-ing 10,000 employeesin Florida concerningAmerican Indian tribes.Mike Tiger, as a great partner, has agreed to help usdevelop a deeper more complete understanding of thecultural identity and issues facing tribe memberstoday. It’s our view that only through this kind ofpartnership can we get the right information to createthe proper awareness…so we’re just downright excit-ed about the chance to come, more aware ourselvesof the diversity council members and improve ourjourney to take back to 10,000 employees. Tonightwe are having fellowship, and a dinner, and we aregoing to see a couple of movies that Mike Tiger isinvolved with and is sponsoring. Tomorrow we’regoing to Big Cypress and learn about the history andcurrent cultural activities and the environmentalissues. We’re excited, the people that are with merepresent all areas of our company and have traveledfrom as far away as Jacksonville, Tallahassee, Tampa,

Naples, Palm Beach, Miami and even Punta Gorda tobe here tonight.”

The name Wachovia is very interesting. It isderived from a valley in Europe that settlers fromNorth Carolina came from more than 150 years ago,located in the Alsace-Lorraine region in France. Inthe Vaca valley, the people were called “Vacovians,”which loosely translated in English came outWachovians.

Bob Helms, CEO of Wachovia’s Floridabanks said, “We would like to play a bigger role withthe tribe, not only financial, but expand and supportsimilar interests by referrals of business and culturalexchanges. This includes more job hiring and trainingof Seminoles citizens. We are thrilled to be here at

the Hard Rock Casinoand conference centerand are excited to besupporting this proper-ty and its corporateentity.”

Mike Tigersaid he was glad every-one was here to see themovie presentation thatSeminole broadcastinghad put together. Themovie showed the his-tory and origins of theSeminole people andthere culture throughinterviews with promi-nent Seminole leadersof the past and present.They took turnsdescribing their ownpersonal life strugglesthat they had facedwith their families.After the short filmended showing the evo-lution of the tribe,everyone agreed thatthe film had been veryeducational and inspir-ing by providing moreinsights into how thetribe originated andstruggled for survivalagainst tremendousodds. Later, all the

Wachovia bank executives were invited to attend anice dinner at the Council Oak restaurant.

The next day, Mike Tiger and his staff ledthe Wachovia group by charter bus to Big Cypress fora first hand look at what the Seminole Tribe is allabout. The group toured Billie Swamp Safari; theywent on a swamp buggy ride into the Everglades andlooked at a lot of wildlife in its natural habitat. Theyalso got the grand tour treatment at the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum and they took in the new nature trailboardwalk.

Guides lectured about the different subjectsbeing viewed and answered questions that the guestshad on the tour. The outing was cut short due to light-ening storms in the area and everyone returned to thebus for the quick trip back to Hollywood.

Treasurer’s Office Hosts Partyfor Wachovia Bank Executives

Hollywood Tribal Treasurer Mike D. Tiger addressesWachovia representatives.

Felix DoBosz

The Seminole Tribune 21 September 3, 2004

Photos and Story By Adelsa Williams HOLLYWOOD — The Seminole Tribe of

Florida hosted the 47th Annual Junior Miss and MissFlorida Seminole Princess Pageant on Saturday August14. For days, six young Seminole ladies competedfiercely to be considered for the crown, while beingclosely watched by a group of judges.

Judging began at early hours of the morning asparticipants gathered for a group breakfast.

The pageant committee members, chaperonesand volunteers then steered contestants to their nextscheduled destination. Contestants were transported ingrand style by a limousine driver, who made many stopsat the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, where theparticipants roomed at the end of each day of the com-petition.

On the first day of the competition, contestantsattended an orientation where the pageant’s staff wasintroduced and committee members went over the entirepageant itinerary. During orientation, contestantslearned the proper dress codes, punctuality and certainlittle nick picks the judges would look for such as bodylanguage and poise.

Each day, contestants practiced their walks,speeches and performances at the Hollywood officeauditorium where they were assisted by various stage

coaches.Former Mr. Seminole, Brian Zepeda, assisted

in the public speaking aspect of the competition as hediscussed with contestants typical discomforts theywould encounter while on stage, such as emotional ten-sion and physical discomfort. He coached contestantson how to stay focused and keep their concentration.

After a hard day of practice, contestants weretreated to several entertaining dinners. The first dinnerwas a social gathering and contestants were not judged.The group boarded the Jungle Queen® Riverboat cruiseand went to a remote island where they enjoyed a din-ner and show.

The next two events were held at the HardRock’s ballroom, one occasion was themed a Hawaiianluau style and the other was the popular Mardi Gras.

Contestants also enjoyed a makeup sessionwith a Mary Kay® consultant and a Target® run.

Judges conducted individual personal inter-views with the contestants prior to the actual pageant.

Wanda Bowers, a former Miss Seminole andcurrent princess pageant chairwoman, spoke brieflyabout the history of the pageant.

Emcee Brian Zepeda along with co-host andalso former Miss Seminole Suraiya Smith did the intro-duction of the princess committee members and volun-

teers, followed by the introduction of tribal officials.Chairman Mitchell Cypress, Vice Chairman

Moses Osceola, Brighton Representative RogerSmith and Trail Liaison William Osceola shared acouple of welcoming remarks with the audience.Cypress presented medals as a token of appreciationto former Seminole Princesses in attendance as theywere called up to the stage to be recognized.

The reigning 2003–2004 Miss FloridaSeminole Cherelee K. Hall and Junior MissSeminole Brittany Smith shared a couple of welcom-ing remarks as well. Hall acknowledged the hardwork and dedication the princess committee demon-strated during the week of the pageant and also con-gratulated contestants for their never ending effort.

“It takes a lot of effort to compete, I cannotstress that enough,” said Hall.

As part of the application process, eachcontestant was asked to write an essay on the topicof their choice and also tell why they want tobecome Junior Miss or Miss Seminole.

Elrod Bowers, with the Seminole sportsmanagement department, did the introductions ofcontestants as they modeled across the stage arrayedin Seminole dresses. They then briefly introducedthemselves and as they continued their walk, Bowers

See PRINCESS, page 22

Miss Seminole contestants model traditional dresses during the princess pageant.

Excited 2004–2005 Junior Miss Seminole Krystle Young (left) and Miss FloridaSeminole Jo Jo Osceola (right).

Junior Miss and Miss Seminole contestants pose for pictures at the Hard Rock Hotel pool.

Contestant Jennifer Chalfant at the Mardi Gras dinner. Miss Seminole contestant Danette Bowers performs her talent–storytelling.Oliver Wareham

2003–2004 Miss Seminole Cherelee Hall poses withMardi Gras dinner entertainers.

Jo Jo Osceola Crowned Miss Seminole;Krystle Young, Junior Miss Seminole

read a biography of each contestant based ontheir essay.

Following the introductions, the pro-gram moved on to the modeling portion, wherecontestants modeled their tradition Seminoledress. The co-host described the color and typeof the dress and style and also announced thedesigners, most of which were members of thecontestant’s family.

Cheryl V. Dixon, Miss NationalCongress of American Indians 2003–2004 wasthe motivational speaker for the evening. She isa 19-year-old proud member of the Pueblo ofIsleta, located in New Mexico. She is enteringher junior year at the University of NewMexico, where she plans to double major inBiology and English and one day become adoctor.

Dixon congratulated all the contest-ants and shared a few words of advice. Shesaid she hopes to motivate and encourageyouth to pursue their educational endeavors.

“There are several people who believein us to carry on our traditions and tribal voicein contemporary America so that we can beable to carry on our culture and defend ourrights that we worked so long to establish,”said Dixon. “Education is the key to manydoors and opportunities; it is our ticket in thiscompetitive world. Life is not always perfect,but regardless, never put your dreams, goalsand aspirations by the way side.”

Contestants proceeded with their indi-vidual selective presentations of talent. Theyanswered impromptu questions that werespecifically regarding their Seminole culture.

After both farewell speeches by the2003–2004 Princesses, the talent and MissCongeniality winners were announced.

Last but not least, the new Junior Missand Miss Seminole were announced.

Krystle Young, Panther clan, wascrowned Junior Miss Seminole as she tri-umphed over Jennifer Diane Chalfant andAmber Anochee Craig, both from the Brightonreservation. Young is the daughter of BrendaCypress and Steve Young, and resides in theHollywood reservation.

Young said she wanted to becomeJunior Miss Seminole because it would be agreat experience and a chance to learn a lot ofnew and important things that would benefither in life. She loves to meet new people andvisit places that have great educational values.

She said, “Without my family, I wouldhave nothing that’s why they are the mostimportant thing in my life, my point being, thatall good things are sometimes right under yournose.”

The 2004–2005 Miss Seminole win-ner is Jo Jo Osceola, Bird clan, from theHollywood reservation. Her proud parents areVirginia and Joe Dan Osceola.

Runner ups were Danette Bowersfrom Brighton and Christine McCall fromHollywood.

Osceola said she wanted to becomeMiss Seminole to have the opportunity to buildbridges between cultures and help othersunderstand her culture. She wants to changethe negative views some may have of NativeAmericans.

“My long term goals are to be contentwith who I am and to remain ambitiousthroughout my life,” Osceola said. “I plan toattend college, specialize in American Indianlaw and become an attorney to help improvemy tribe.”

Acknowledgements to the princesscommittees and volunteers are as follow:

See PRINCESS, page 23

The Seminole Tribune 22 September 3, 2004

Seminole Nation of Oklahoma royalty with former Miss Seminole Cherelee Hall (center).

Princess Committee Chairwoman Wanda Bowers (left) instructs the contestants during the luau dinner.

Guest judge Miss Indian World Delana Smith.

Junior Miss Seminole contestant Amber Craig.

Princess committee members make preparations for the pageant events.

Miss Seminole contestant Christine McCall enjoys a dance with her mother Wanda Bowers.

Miss Florida USA Melissa Witek (center) assisted with judging the pageant.

Chairman Mitchell Cypress dances the night away during the luau dinner.

PrincessContinued from page 21

The Seminole Tribune 23 September 3, 2004

Wanda Bowers, Chairwoman, Salina SnowDorgan, Vice Chairwoman and TabulationCoordinator, Priscilla Sayen, CommitteeTreasurer, Suraiya Smith, PageantCoordinator, Holly Tiger, StageCoordinator, Connie Frank Gowen, judge’sgifts, Lawana Niles, Chaperone, AliceBillie, Chaperone, Josephine North,Tabulator, Diane Buster, Tabulator, BrianZepeda, Jeanette Cypress, Danielle Jumper

Frye and Desiree Jumper.Also, the judges: James Grant,

Chairman of the Otoe-Missouria tribe,Melissa Witek, Miss Florida USA, AlyssaBurhans, Miss NCAI Coordinator, DelanaSmith, Miss Indian World 2004 andMelanie Mathews, Miss Indian WorldCoordinator.

Special Thanks to the communica-tions, broadcasting, Seminole sports man-agement and Seminole police departments,The Hollywood Seminole Hard Rock Hotel& Casino, Marcellus Osceola Jr. withArrow Limousine, First Place Trophies,Event Source Productions, Hooray’s fromHollywood, Inc. and Sara Summy.

Chairman Mitchell Cypress recognized some of the past 46 Seminole princesses who attended this year’s pageant.

PrincessContinued from page 22

Krystle Young gets crowned the 2004–2005 Junior Miss Seminole by former Junior Miss Seminole Brittany Smith.Oliver Wareham

Miss Indian World Coordinator and guest judge Melanie Matthews enjoys the luau.

The Seminole Tribune 24 September 3, 2004

Christine McCall arrayed in her traditional Seminole dress.

Luau dancers entertain the pageant attendees during a dinner on Thursday August 12.

Princess pageant contestants shared dances and smiles.

Elrod Bowers introduced contestants during the modeling portion.

Miss Florida USA Melissa Witek was a pageant judge.

Miss Seminole contestant Danette Bowers from Brighton.Krystle Young displays her patchwork-making talent.2003–2004 Junior Miss Seminole Brittany Smith says her farewells.

Contestant Jennifer Chalfant represented Brighton.