Hamiinat Magazine - Winter 2025

H amiinat

THE MAGAZINE OF THE SAN MANUEL BAND OF MISSION INDIANS

I am delighted to share the Winter 2025 issue of Hamiinat, the magazine of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. The magazine title translates to “hello” in the Maara’yam (Serrano Indian) language. This is also an extension of friendship, goodwill and Serrano hospitality, for which our people are well known.

Serrano Indians are indigenous to the San Bernardino Mountains and valleys, as well as the High Desert regions of Southern California. The people of San Manuel are the Yuhaaviatam Clan of Serrano Indians, whose rich culture and history are reflected throughout this wonderful magazine. We are most happy to offer you a glimpse into our Tribe and enterprises.

Our cover story is about the cultural and spiritual significance of the piñon harvest, a tradition the Serrano people have maintained for centuries. The trees, part of our creation story, sustained our people through displacement and challenging times. Now they sustain the Tribe’s connection to one another and their heritage.

We reflect on the events of the annual San Manuel Pow Wow and learn firsthand why the three-day gathering of people from the United States and Canada means so much to all who attend. And we see how events held on California Native American Day, as well as the week leading up to it, help people discover the beauty and truth about Indigenous cultures in the state.

We follow unfolding developments in the attempt to heal the damage done to generations of Native people by federal Indian boarding schools and track the efforts to eliminate human trafficking.

We meet new members of the San Manuel Youth Committee and learn their vision for giving back to their Tribe by serving in leadership roles; five Indigenous leaders who have been honored by the California Native American Legislative Caucus; and three generations of tribal leadership who share their hopes for the future.

We learn what the Tribe values by the causes it supports through philanthropy and see why sharing the Tribe’s history and culture can uplift all those involved with its ventures. We get insight into why the tribal court is so critical to tribal governments and how San Manuel is preparing the next generation of attorneys to be allies in tribal matters.

We look at the fun way San Manuel shows appreciation for its team members and get the play-by-play on an epic college football season from the team’s MVPs who shared the story with sports lovers at Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel. Finally, we’ll focus on Native designers and look at how a few chefs are making their gorgeous desserts too hard to resist. We thank you for being our guest and can’t wait to share our many new and exciting offerings, as well as our Yuhaaviatam tribal culture, with you.

Chairwoman Lynn “Nay” Valbuena San Manuel Band of Mission Indians

BEST LAS VEGAS CASINO

GRAND LOFT SUITE

OLIVIA STEELE ART

THE LATEST SLOTS

CONTENTS

PÜMIA’ CAKIMIV

6 / COVER

This centuries-old tradition forges a spiritual connection to the Creator and one another.

12 / CULTURE

The San Manuel Pow Wow offers a glimpse into Indigenous strength and community.

16 / HERITAGE

Students learn about California’s First Peoples through an immersive educational experience.

18 / TRIBAL HIGHLIGHTS

Meet three generations of leadership who are working to secure the future of the Tribe.

20 / NEXT GENERAT ION

San Manuel youth are prepared for future tribal leadership.

22 / FIRESIDE C HATS

Create a culture of caring by sharing the Tribe’s journey of resilience and its vision for the future.

24 / G OVER NA NCE

Understanding the role and importance of tribal courts in providing fair and accessible justice.

28 / RECOGNIT ION

Celebrating Native forces for positive change.

PUYU’HOUPKCAV

30 / AWARE NESS

A trafficking victim shares her story– and how we can fight back against the pervasive crime.

36 / TEACHING TRADITI ONS

A celebration to understand the unique cultures of California’s First Peoples.

38 / HERITAGE

The impact of the federal Indian boarding schools on Native American communities continues to ripple out.

42 / PHILANTHR OPY

Honoring San Manuel’s long-term vision for community support and generational responsibility.

44 / FAMILY

San Manuel says thank you to each team member for their hard work with an annual celebration – filled with food, music and rides.

46 / GIVING BACK

The annual San Manuel Golf Tournament creates a profound impact on eight charities.

50 / EDUCATI ON

A week at Harvard empowers Native people to reclaim voices in media and government and increase economic standing.

52 / EXPERIE NCE

A unique summer experience at San Manuel prepares students for careers in tribal law.

54 / COLLABORATION

See how business owners spread love and connection to their community, and what their connection with Yaamava’ will bring.

59 / SUPP ORT

Connecting survivors of domestic violence to community resources.

60 / ACCO MP LI S HMENT

A San Manuel team member shares her achievements while working for the Tribe.

M Ü CI S CK

62 / STYLE

Indigenous motifs and sustainability in winter’s style.

70 / ON TRE ND

Bold contrast takes the look to the next level – all available at Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel.

74 / SAVOR

Classic desserts are transformed with whimsical additions.

80 / SP OTLIGHT

One night with USC football stars Leinart and Bush.

84 / P ROFILE

One chef’s journey to bringing happiness through pastry.

H amiinat

TRIBAL COUNCIL

CHAIRWOMAN Lynn Valbuena

VICE CHAIRMAN Johnny Hernandez, Jr.

SECRETARY Audrey Martinez

TREASURER Latisha Prieto

CULTURE SEAT MEMBER Joseph Maarango

FIRST GOVERNING COUNCIL MEMBER Ed Duro

SECOND GOVERNING COUNCIL MEMBER Laurena Bolden

CONTRIBUTORS

Gina Alvarado

Yvette Ayala Henderson

Jacob Coin

Erin Copeland

Shoshawna Covington

LeeAna Espinoza Salas

Timothy Evans

Christopher Fava

Sonna Gonzales

Darcy Gray

Kristen Grimes

Anna Hohag

Alberto Jasso

Angelica Loera

Chelsea Marek

Laurie Marsden

Amanda Martin

Summer Massoud

Tiffany Melendez

Shawnna Nason

Marcus O’brien

Anthony Olivas

Stacia Olivas

Noel Olson

Tammy Purdy

Tina Ramos

Steven Robles

Cheyenne Sanders

Ken Shoji

Corey Silva

Gregory Vanstone

Oliver Wolf

A VERY SPECIAL THANK YOU TO THE FOLLOWING:

Raven Casas

Quoymee Chacon

Nicole Fields

Annabella Hernandez

Audrey Hernandez

Nekoli Hernandez

Roman Hernandez

Judiciary Board

Riley Murillo

Latisha Prieto

James Ramos

Tom Ramos, Sr.

Carla Rodriguez

Halani Zavala

Thank you to the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians and the entire tribal community for sharing their stories: past, present and future.

EDITORIAL

MANAGING EDITOR Laurena Bolden

MANAGING EDITOR Joseph Maarango

MANAGING EDITOR Jessica Stops

PRODUCTION MANAGER Julie Lopez

PUBLISHER Peter Gotfredson

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Lisa Thé

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Jessica Villano

PÜ MIA ’ C ˇ AKIMIV

(puh-mee-ah chah-kee-meev)

Our Heritage

Pümia' C�akimiv: What we came with. The phrase describes our heritage, traditions, culture and all the songs and dances our people have passed down over many generations

In this section we explore the cultural significance of the piñon harvest for the Serrano people. We reflect on the connections that were strengthened and traditions that were shared at the San Manuel Pow Wow. We meet tribal youth who have recently joined the Youth Committee and see what it is they hope to learn from the experience. We also learn about tribal citizens who are committed to leadership roles, others who seek to deliver equality and balance for the good of the community and how one tribal citizen shares the history of her people to create a familial culture within the company. Finally, we look at a newly formed caucus that bestowed recognition upon Native people who create positive change.

Photography by Tiffany Melendez

Nourishing

Body & Soul

Exploring the cultural and spiritual significance of the piñon.

BY RICHARD ARLIN WALKER / PHOTOGRAPHY BY

TIFFANY MELENDEZ

WHEN THE LANDS of the Yuhaaviatam were being encroached upon by settlers, when newcomers took more than their share of the deer and plants that had fed the people since creation, the Yuhaaviatam still had the trees.

The piñon pines and the Yuhaaviatam had adapted to the extremes of life: the trees, the extremes of weather, the people, the extremes of human behavior. And so, as Europeans and Americans arrived in the area –covetous of Yuhaaviatam land, resources and game – the people found sustenance in the piñon pines.

“High in the San Bernardino Mountains at Yuhaaviat, an area of pine trees near present-day Big Bear Lake, Küktac our Creator lay dying,” the story is told. “When Küktac died, the people began to mourn.”

In their grief, the mourners became pine trees, and those trees gave life to the Yuhaaviatam people and “enriched the land with vegetation and animals, allowing future generations to thrive.” Those ancestors helped ensure their descendants’ survival, providing nutrient-rich piñon nuts.

Nicole Fields, 20, is a citizen of San Manuel. She has participated in the harvest since she was a child.

“I think it’s pretty amazing how one could survive off of piñon nuts,” she said. “I’m sure the ancestors caught

rabbits and other animals, but when the animals were scarce, piñon nuts were a good form of protein.”

The Yuhaaviatam people survived. Their kiika, Santos Manuel – Fields’s ancestor – led them in the 1860s to the valley floor where, in 1891, the San Manuel Reservation was established.

The piñon pines at Yuhaaviat continue to contribute to the Yuhaaviatam people’s physical and spiritual well-being and represent a long-standing connection to the land. The piñon harvest is steeped in traditional knowledge, gratitude and love.

Fields said families watch the groves to see which are producing enough for harvesting. “There’s one window of opportunity – when the pinecones open up or when they’re at their peak size right before they open,” Fields said.

James Ramos, past Chairman and continued Cultural Awareness Coordinator, has been leading the Yuhaaviatam camp since 2005. As the piñon bloom mid-August to mid-September, Yuhaaviatam set up camp at the harvest site. This year there were about 25-30 tribal citizens.

“The night before, we thank our ancestors for passing down their knowledge and survival to us,” Fields said. “I reflect on that when I’m picking. I think

“THEY COLLECTED PIÑON AS A SOURCE OF SURVIVAL, AS A WAY OF LIFE.”

about how my parents taught me to gather when I was young, and I think of how their parents taught them and how I could teach younger generations.”

On the day of the harvest, Bird Singers sing songs and a blessing is given, “to thank the land for what it’s providing us and for bringing our family together,” explained Fields.

Then, the harvest begins.

“The biggest thing I have learned is how to use the fruit picker correctly – how to twist the cone and pull it the right way instead of pulling down and launching it off into the distance,” Fields said.

Cones are steamed in big pans over a fire until they soften and can be pulled apart to get the piñon nuts, or seeds, out. Then seeds are roasted for about 20 minutes. The nuts can be added to salad, pasta or seafood dishes or eaten alone. “We snack on them as is or I mix them into trail mix,” Fields said.

The piñon harvest is, like other cultural gatherings, an important time for families to enjoy each other’s company and pass down teachings.

“After we say the blessing and the prayer, we break off and find the tree we want to harvest at and then, as we’re harvesting, we talk,” Fields said. “Same thing with roasting and processing: you have a group of

people standing by the fire checking to see if the piñon nuts are soft. And you have people picking the nuts from the cones.”

Knowledge passed down since the time of the grandparents’ grandparents is shared here during the harvest. Those who know the language, like Fields, teach the Serrano names for animals and plants seen during the harvest.

Caring for the piñon groves and harvesting piñons the way their ancestors did is a form of land stewardship for the Yuhaaviatam people. They see these ancestral lands as cultural spaces to be cared for and protected.

PEER-REVIEWED MEDICAL sites note the health benefits of piñon nuts: antioxidants help lower the risk of cardiovascular disease; fiber, protein and

unsaturated fats help keep blood sugar levels stable; omega-3 fatty acids help build and repair brain cells; and manganese helps lower the risk of diabetes.

Kamran Zafar, field attorney for the Grand Canyon Trust, wrote in 2020 that Native peoples used piñon pitch in salves for open cuts and sunburns, and ground it into powder as an antiseptic for wounds. It was also used to fill cavities in aching teeth. Wood from piñon trees was valued as a construction material. Fields said piñon pitch is a good bonding agent.

Noted anthropologist Ruth Benedict (1887-1948) wrote in 1924 about the ceremonial and dietary importance of piñons and of their distribution among Serrano peoples.

“Piñon nuts were important in the diet of all these groups,” she wrote. “A trip was made over into the Bear Valley region every fall for these nuts. No group could go without its chief and the MaringaMühiatnim-Atü’aviatum group went together, under the leadership of the Maringa chief,” she wrote.

“The first two groups went first to Kupatcam, The Pipes, where the Atü’aviatum lived. From the time they left this place, the party began to witc-at. This term refers to communal, that is, ceremonial eating.

“When any ceremony was to be undertaken, the requisition for the feast upon the proper heads of families was the witc-at. So on this trip all provisions were turned into a common fund by the heads of the families, and distributed by the chief through the paha.

“The first piñon nuts were given to the chief by every family, and these were used for his witc-at at the annual feast which always followed this trip very shortly.”

According to Benedict, the Atü’aviatum leader “would invite as many other groups as could use the available yield in any particular year. The Serrano

“I FEEL A SPIRITUAL CONNECTION AS I HARVEST, FOLLOWING MY ANCESTORS FOOTSTEPS.”

clan extended the invitation to Cahuilla from the San Jacinto Mountains and Colorado Desert, and even to the Gabrielino groups on the coast. The harvest lasted from September through mid-October.”

Serrano culture bearer Dorothy Ramon (19092002) shared her recollections of piñon gathering in her story, “Gathering Pine Nuts.” She said the people went to tevayka (“the piñon pines”) every year and gathered and stored piñon nuts for later use and for eating during ceremonies.

Ernest Siva (Cahuilla/Serrano), Ramon’s nephew and President of the Dorothy Ramon Learning Center, said piñon harvests and deer hunts take place before the coming of the bighorn sheep constellation in the night sky, in order to provide food for the mourning ceremony honoring recently deceased loved ones.

“It was something my ancestors did before me,” Fields said. “They collected piñon as a source of survival, as a way of life. Today, I also harvest them – not as a form of survival, but as a form of cultural preservation. I like to think of it as a way that the culture is not forgotten. And for spiritual connection – I feel a spiritual connection as I harvest, following my ancestors’ footsteps.”

CLUB SERRANO MEMBERSHIP NOW GIVES YOU MORE!

Club Serrano members can now receive discounts of up to 35% off on tee times at Monarch Beach Golf Links. In addition, members can use earned rewards to play at this oceanfront golf course.

Featuring stunning views of the Pacific Ocean on nearly every hole, the Monarch Beach Golf Links is a one-of-a-kind golf course in Dana Point in Orange County, CA. The 18-hole, par-70 championship resort golf course was designed by master golf architect Robert Trent Jones, Jr., and offers unending variety of play. It is one of a few handful of oceanfront golf courses in California, featuring tight fairways and firm greens.

SAN MANUe L POW WOW 2024

Ancient Paths Bring Thousands to an Annual Gathering of Friends

By Ken Shoji

SAN BERNARDINO has long been celebrated as a destination along Route 66, the Mother Road linking America’s east with its west. This historic highway traces its path across plains, mountains and deserts following Native American trade routes established by these societies long before cars sporting “California or Bust” brought newcomers to Southern California. These ancient networks continue to thrive with Native culture, drawing people from all four directions for a unique annual celebration here in the ancestral Marra’yam (Serrano) territory of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. From Montana to Saskatchewan and Alaska to Canada, North America’s best powwow dancers, drummers and artisans have taken the long journey to San Manuel Pow Wow since 1996 to celebrate spiritual roots that tie Native people to all corners of the continent.

This year, the 28th annual pow wow took place the weekend of September 20-22 at California State University, San Bernardino. It drew 700 dancers, 28 drum groups and more than 140 vendors – a staggering crowd of 30,000 to 40,000 people – for what has been dubbed the ultimate pow wow due to its high level of competitive dancing and drumming. These thousands of spectators had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the best of cultural music, food, arts and dance, highlighting the richness and diversity of Native American life and tradition.

San Manuel Pow Wow stands as a symbol of Native resilience, reflecting the strength and fortitude of Indigenous communities. It offers a unique opportunity for competitors and participants to retrace the steps of their ancestors through their travels and in the motions and rhythms of their

Friends from all four directions are welcomed in the spirit of HOUPKCÜVA’ (togetherness) to our ancestral homelands of the Yuhaaviatam clan of the Maara’yam (Serrano) people in Southern California. In our Serrano language, the word HAMIINTAMC (Hello) has been voiced throughout the generations to greet groups of visitors who come to our Serrano ancestral homelands.

dances, continuing the path of the ancestors who established complex trade and ceremonial networks connecting all Indian Country through cultural sharing and trade.

“Our livelihood, cultures and traditions are based on sharing,” said drummer and pow wow host Glen Begay (Diné). “It’s a big part of our life to share, and that is a big reason we are here because San Manuel is

sharing with the Indian community, from throughout the U.S. and Canada, by giving back to others, enabling us to express what is most important this weekend.”

The gathering of friends at the San Manuel Pow Wow is a powerful symbol of unity and an opportunity for cultural preservation, giving people a cultural and spiritual home for the weekend, whether they traveled from Alaska or live locally.

HISTORY & HERITAGE

Traditional cultural educators from California tribes share music, arts and language.

THIS PAST NOVEMBER, the California Indian Cultural Education Day brought local third and fourth graders together to engage with California’s First Peoples through music, arts and language. Traditional cultural educators from the Yurok, Shingle Springs, Wilton Rancheria, Tuolumne and San Manuel Tribes also joined in the activities, creating an immersive, educational experience.

For the past 25 years, the event had been held at California State University, San Bernardino. But this year a new location was selected: the California State Capitol in Sacramento. Hosting the event here carried special significance for Indigenous participants, as the building was once associated with legislation that undermined Native Americans. San Manuel tribal citizen and Assemblymember James Ramos said, “This was very meaningful as I was able to share my culture and educate students in a place once associated with the loss of our rights.”

LL COOL J

Jan. 17

Tom Segura Jan. 23

Sebastian Maniscalco Jan. 30

HAUSER May 27

IN THEIR BLOOD

Three generations of leadership work to secure the future of the Tribe.

By Richard Arlin Walker / Photography by Cara Romero

SOME OF Latisha Prieto’s earliest memories are of accompanying her mother to General Assembly meetings of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians.

“I didn’t really understand what was going on, but hearing all the things they talked about in the room, it started to make sense,” Latisha said. “It was like there are bigger things discussed here and I’m supposed to be learning from it.”

And learn she did. Today, Latisha is the Tribe’s elected Treasurer and Chairwoman of San Manuel Gaming and Hospitality Authority (SMGHA), the entity which owns Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas.

She’s part of a lineage of leadership.

Her great-great-grandfather was Santos Manuel (1814-1919), the Yuhaaviatam kiika who led his displaced people from the mountains to soon-to-be reserved lands in the San Bernardino Valley. Her mother, Carla Rodriguez, a tribal elder, was the Tribe’s first Gaming Commissioner, former Chairwoman and currently the Secretary for SMGHA. Her daughter, Raven Casas, is a former Youth Committee member and MMIP advocate who wants to someday serve on Tribal Council and in the legislature. Her cousin, James Ramos, former San Manuel Chairman, is the only Native American in the state Assembly. Grandmother (Tutu), daughter and granddaughter have varied interests. Carla, 71, is a retired singer for the funk/soul/Latin cover band Full Circle. Latisha, 44, graduated from University of Redlands and earned a fiduciary specialty certificate from Harvard, with an educational background in business, financial management and specialized fiduciary training. Casas, 18, is a car buff who’s studying to be a mechanic.

But the wellbeing of the Tribe is their top priority –an inherent responsibility they feel every tribal citizen bears. The beauty, they say, is that anyone can make a difference and be part of a continuum of service that has made it possible for San Manuel to be one of the most philanthropic tribal nations in the United States.

“As Native American people, it is our responsibility to be involved in everything the Tribe does,” Carla said. “Some people can turn that off and I’m very outspoken when that happens, because Native people are born to do these things. Each and every one of us has a gift we were given. We have to discover what that is, nurture it and build it to make us who we are today.”

There is a lot at stake, Carla said.

“KNOW YOUR HISTORY and understand what it took to get us where we are today. Also, be humble.”

The federal government signed 18 treaties with tribal nations in California, but those treaties were never ratified. A treaty is a binding agreement between sovereigns and is called “the supreme law of the land” by the U.S. Constitution.

But because the treaty they signed was not ratified, the relationship between the United States and San Manuel – the trust obligation, the government-togovernment relationship – is one of good faith rather than legally binding. “We are fortunate to be in the position we’re in and to do the things we do,” Carla said. Indeed. It was not long ago – the time of the grandparents’ grandparents – that raids and bloodshed drove the Yuhaaviatam people from their homes in the mountains. But the people persevered. Santos Manuel’s generation passed the teachings on to the next generation. Young ones grew up to become culture bearers. There was cohesiveness in vision for the future.

Yuhaaviatam culture, language and values survived. The tribal nation is thriving. That doesn’t happen by sitting on the sidelines.

“I’m one of the older ones who saw us grow from poverty to where we are today,” Carla said. “And I teach my kids and grandkids that this can be taken away from us so prepare for anything in the future, because the government does encroach in various ways on tribes. We have to always protect it; it’s not a given thing.”

Latisha added, “That’s why it’s so important for us to mentor the next generation; we have that duty and obligation of upholding our sovereignty. If we don’t, it could be taken away from us.”

Like her mother, Raven found her voice in General Assembly meetings and inspiration in her forebears.

“I used to sit next to my Tutu at meetings and I had so many questions,” she said. “I had no idea what was going on, but I remember seeing all of them write in their notebooks, so I brought a notebook too. I wanted to be just like them.”

Raven is a part of the Serrano language revitalization program; her goal is to become fluent and teach the language to the next generation. She also testified before a State Assembly Committee regarding the low number of perpetrators prosecuted for crimes against Native women; the legislature approved a bill to clarify criminal jurisdiction on tribal lands and a nonprofit documented the number of MMIP cases in Central and Southern California.

“I remember my first time speaking in Sacramento,” Raven said. “I’m young, I’m Native, I’m female. Typically, when you’re younger, people don’t really listen to you. But I felt like my words were important, because I definitely had something to say and people needed to listen to me.”

Sitting in front of legislators, she remembered: “I’m not doing this for me, I’m doing it for my brothers and sisters who are missing and for their families. I’m doing it for my Tribe. I’m doing it for generations that will follow. And I know I can make a change with my voice.”

She added, “My grandmother and my mom always tell me this is our life, this is who we are. We are Native. We are strong Native women. We come from long lines of strong Native leadership.”

Seven generations have been born since Santos Manuel led the Yuhaaviatam people to the safety of the valley floor, and his descendants are guided by seven-generations thinking.

“The people I work alongside will often hear me say, ‘The decisions we’re making today are about honoring those who came before us and making sure we’re recognizing what they did to get us to where we are, and being mindful of our decisions and how they impact future generations’,” Latisha said. “It’s about honoring the past and securing the future.”

Latisha gave this advice to young people who are considering getting involved in tribal government:

“Start participating in your community. Build your understanding of what it means not only to be a leader but to be a tribal citizen who understands the work that goes into providing for the Tribe and

upholding self-sustainability,” Latisha said.

“Know your history and understand what it took to get us where we are today. Also, be humble,” she added. “You want to continue to grow and in order to do that you have to listen to others – tribal leaders, elders, people from your age group, youth. You have to take all of their concerns into consideration. You can’t have tunnel vision. You have to have a wide perspective to make sure you’re doing all you can to uphold tribal sovereignty.”

Raven expects she’ll run for Tribal Council someday and, later, the state legislature.

“My heart is fully set on taking a role in Tribal

Council, because I was born to be a leader in our Tribe,” Raven said. “I was born to take a seat there and make decisions for my generation and generations to come. Having a position in Sacramento would be great, but I know this is where my home is.

“There are big decisions that need to be made for my Tribe. I know I need to take a position here and that’s definitely what I plan on doing. This is the life I was born into,” she added. “Even if I didn’t want to, it’s something I have to do, and I’m more than happy to do it. If I and others in my generation don’t do it, our Tribe will die. And I will never let that happen as long as I live.”

NEXT GENERATION

NEW MEMBERS NEW HOPES

The San Manuel Youth Committee welcomes tribal citizens to prepare them for a life of service and leadership.

By Terria Smith / Photography by Tiffany Melendez

THIS PAST FALL, a new school year brought new members to the San Manuel Youth Committee, an opportunity that offers a chance to learn culture, build leadership and strengthen friendships among the younger tribal citizens.

While each new member was inspired to join for different reasons, there was a common thread: family. Audrey Hernandez, the committee’s new secretary, said that getting to work with her cousins was something that motivated her.

“I look up to my cousin, who is the Chair of the Youth Committee and how he ran the meetings,” she said. “I think, ‘What if I become Chair one day?’ I want to run them just like he did.”

As this year’s newly elected Youth Committee Chair, Annabella Hernandez explained that she wanted to join because, “My brother is a part of it and I was inspired by what they do for the community.”

Outside of what directed them toward leadership, they also have their own goals and aspirations for service on the committee.

“My goal is to make a positive difference in my community,” Annabella said. “I love getting the chance to fundraise and help people around me.”

“What we’ve achieved so far is beyond my expectations,” said newly elected Vice Chairman Nekoli Hernandez. “Meeting with high officials and holding events, such as the Tribal Youth Gathering, are things that I never would’ve thought we would have been doing, I’m glad to be a part of it.”

Committee members are elected each year. Serving one-year terms provides opportunity and experience for the youth to serve in different roles and gain a broad range of leadership skills.

During the year, the Youth Committee meets regularly to actively discuss interests that will directly benefit the tribal community. Their participation in

decision making is encouraged by tribal leadership, providing them with opportunities to contribute creatively with their skills and talents. The Youth Committee plans and hosts an annual Tribal Youth Gathering, manages a holiday donation drive and engages in advocacy opportunities to further the work of protecting tribal sovereignty and educating others about the Tribe. The members have said that being organized as well as being involved in tribal culture are responsibilities they have as committee members. But what some find is their most important responsibility is to one another.

“My biggest responsibility is to be there for our other members,” said Nekoli. “It helps us voice our concerns if we see something that we don’t think is the best for our community.”

Ultimately, the experience of serving on the Youth Committee is something they believe will help them in the future. Riley Murillo, the committee’s new Treasurer, said she hopes this experience will help her when she has a business or serves on the Tribal Council.

“I believe that my service on the Youth Committee will help me advance in skills leadership and communication. This is a very great opportunity to prepare to be a future tribal leader,” Annabella said. “And I’m grateful to my Tribe for the experience.

Left to right: Nekoli Hernandez (Vice Chairman) Halani Zavala (Youth Committee Member) Riley Murillo (Treasurer) Annabella Hernandez (Chairperson) Audrey Hernandez (Secretary) Roman Hernandez (Representative) Quoymee Chacon (Youth Committee Member)

SHARING HISTORY

Creating a familial culture at Palms Casino Resort by telling the story of the Yuhaaviatam.

By Richard Arlin Walker / Photography by Robert John Kley

THE HEARTBEAT OF the Yuhaaviatam people – the pulse of Yawa’ – can be felt in Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas. Away from the music, dining and gaming, tribal elder Carla Rodriguez, former Chairwoman of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians and current Secretary for the San Manuel Gaming and Hospitality Authority (SMGHA), shares the story of her people with Palms team members.

It’s a powerful story of resilience, of how a people survived incursions and bloodshed and displacement but never strayed from their culture of giving and, over time, became one of the most successful and philanthropic tribal nations in the U.S.

Palms, purchased by the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians in 2022 through the SMGHA, is the first and only Native American tribe to own and operate a casino resort in Las Vegas.

Rodriguez’s presentations – an introduction to Yuhaaviatam history, culture and values, particularly Yawa’, which means acting on one’s beliefs – are called “fireside chats.” The term conveys the informality and intimacy of the gatherings.

“We sit in a half circle and I go through photos and explain what each one means. It’s about our history and how we got to where we are today,” Rodriguez said. Rodriguez conducts fireside chats over two days

each quarter – two sessions a day, two to three hours each session. “I carry a lot of history and that’s what they want to learn: How did we get where we are today and what was it like before? What was it like growing up on the Reservation? What was it like at school? What does the Tribe’s future look like?”

Rodriguez added, “During the fireside chats last quarter, we showed a four episode documentary about our Tribe. Each episode tells the story of what our ancestors endured and had to sacrifice to get where we are today. It was not an easy life. But today, our young people can go to school anywhere in the world and we are able to give back to our community.”

“IF YOU TREAT TEAM MEMBERS WITH RESPECT, YOU’RE GOING TO GET RESPECT BACK. I LOVE SHARING EVERYTHING I CAN.”

SAN MANUEL’S philosophy of caring has expanded into Nevada, where the Tribe has donated more than $400 million to tribal governments, nonprofits and public service agencies over the last 20 years, and since opening Palms under SMGHA, has awarded $6 million to schools and nonprofits in Las Vegas.

San Manuel’s entry into Las Vegas, which is within the territory of the Paiute Tribe, has also boosted the Indigenous economy and brought awareness to Native sovereignty and protocol.

“Out of respect for the Paiute Tribe, we asked for their permission to be there,” Rodriguez said. “We did a land acknowledgment in front of Palms, saying thank you to the tribes that have ties to Las Vegas. We’re hoping more Native people will become involved in the gaming industry, and I believe we’re seeing that happening now.”

Rodriguez carries her fireside-chat approachability and her genuine desire to forge connections with everyone she meets throughout Palms, making it

abundantly clear to team members that they work for an ownership that is more focused on building a brighter future for all who work there than it is on profit margins.

“We’re not a corporation and it’s not unheard of for me to get out there on the floor and talk to team members,” she said. “That personal touch helps them work even better. If you treat team members with respect, you’re going to get respect back. I love sharing everything I can. If it helps somebody be more comfortable in their workplace, then that to me is everything.”

EQUALITY AND FAIRNESS

How San Manuel Tribal Court upholds fundamental principles of tribal culture.

By Margo Hill-Ferguson / Photography by Tiffany Melendez

ONE ASPECT OF tribal sovereignty is the ability for tribes to make their own laws and be governed by them. Tribes have inherent sovereignty, they retain the right and power to govern their jurisdiction. Tribes have utilized their sovereignty since time immemorial and maintained their governance even after European arrival in America; they conduct their own affairs and depend upon no outside source of power to legitimize their government.

As sovereign nations, tribal governments have the power to make laws governing the conduct of persons in their jurisdiction and establish bodies such as police departments and courts to administer justice. No two governments are the same. While the United States of America borders Canada, their government systems vary, as do tribal nations. Each tribe builds their governance from their peoplehood, embedding their cultures into the fabric of their governing documents.

While the Constitution of the United States was being crafted, the Founding Fathers made an explicit effort to create distinctive pathways to maintain relations with tribal nations. Article I, Section 8, Clause 3 of the Constitution – commonly referred to as the Indian Commerce Clause – calls out “Indian Tribes” as an entity that Congress may enter into commerce with. While tribal nations were treated as distinctive political entities in charge of their own people, challenges to that authority came in some of the earliest cases heard before the United States Supreme Court.

The Marshall Trilogy is a set of decisions handed down between 1823 and 1832 that are still referenced in cases heard today. In the case Worcester v. Georgia (1832), the Supreme Court ruled that Indian tribes were regarded by the nations of Europe and by the United States “as distinct, independent political communities, retaining their original natural rights.” Chief Justice

John Marshall wrote this ruling in the landmark Supreme Court case. The legal and political relationship between tribes and the federal government has been augmented by Congress, the executive branch, the courts and the tribes themselves.

The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, as a distinct sovereign that never relinquished its status as a Nation, has the right to determine how to exercise its tribal sovereignty. One expression of that sovereignty is the Tribal Court.

In 2003, the Governing Body of the Nation passed a law that called for the creation of a court system. The San Manuel Tribal Court opened its doors in 2009 and strives to offer a culturally sensitive and accessible forum for the resolutions of disputes before it.

The San Manuel Judicial Code was adopted in 2003 to protect and promote sovereignty, strengthen selfgovernment and provide for the Tribe’s judicial needs. The Judicial Code established the San Manuel Tribal Court and Judiciary Committee. The San Manuel Judiciary Committee was the designated group of tribal citizens delegated the authority to oversee court functions. At its inception, this group consisted of members of Tribal Council, as well as elected tribal citizens. As the Tribe has grown, a decision was made to shift this position to all elected citizens separate from other bodies of the tribal government, which is now known as the Judiciary Board. The Judiciary Board is still tasked with the same goal of overseeing the operation and administration of the court while weaving tribal culture, beliefs and common practices into its functions. This change was made through the legislative process utilized by the tribal government to protect the integrity of the court process and ensure public accountability for its performance.

According to the Vice Chair of the San Manuel Judiciary Board, “Having the ability to use a tribal court space to take back what the legal system means for an Indigenous community is why we have a tribal court.”

The Bureau of Justice Assistance, a component of the Office of Justice Programs of the U.S. Department of Justice, sets suggested tribal court performance

standards and states that “Integrity should characterize the nature and substance of [tribal] court procedures and decisions. The decision and actions of a [tribal] court should adhere to the duties and obligations imposed on the court by relevant law, as well as administrative rules, policies and ethical and professional standards.”

Accessibility of the Tribal Court

Tribal courts are entrusted with many duties that affect individuals and organizations involved with the judicial system – including litigants, attorneys, witnesses, social service agencies and members of the public. If a court is not managed properly, there can be serious consequences for the persons involved and community members.

Jurisdiction of the court extends beyond the citizenry of the nation, certain civil issues involving non-Native people come before the court. One of the important functions of Tribal Court is to provide effective participation to all who must appear without undue hardship or inconvenience. The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians adopted laws governing the rules of court necessary to support the functionality of the court to provide justice that aligned with the values of the San Manuel people and due process expected in a court of law. San Manuel Tribal Chief Judge Yvette Ayala Henderson and the Court Administrator work to ensure the court staff are courteous and responsive to the tribal citizens and public, meeting all requirements and responsibilities that affect individuals involved with the court system. As Judge Ayala Henderson stated, “Fairness is a guiding principle of the San Manuel Tribal Court.”

Ayala Henderson was a jurist in state court before serving as Chief Judge for another tribal community for more than four years, which means she’s familiar with the concepts that are predominant in tribal courts and communities.

“I am not a member of an Indigenous nation but the values of tribal communities align more with my personal values,” she said. While state court systems tend to be focused solely on the imposition of punitive accountability for harm, tribal nations begin from the premise that all persons have value and are entitled to an opportunity to regain the balance that makes them productive members of their community. If restoration of balance to individuals on either side of the legal dispute is the starting point, justice becomes about accountability and atonement for harm that allows for healing and repair to all persons involved. This is how communities are made whole.”

The San Manuel Tribal Court works to provide due process to tribal citizens and those who have business before them. The court is an important part of how the Tribe exercises its sovereignty and protects the health, safety and moral welfare of all who come under its jurisdiction. It is at the core of every governmental body of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians to provide equality and fairness, fundamental principles that are at the center of their cultural beliefs.

FROM THEN TO NOW

A look at the resilience and determination of the Yuhaaviatam to remain self-sufficient and sovereign.

Since Time Immemorial

Maara’yam people inhabit the mountains, valleys and deserts of Southern California.

1700s-1820s

Spanish missionaries and military encounter the Yuhaaviatam (one clan of the Maara’yam), which they call “Serrano” or “highlander.” Many Maara’yam are forced into the mission system as slave labor for Spain.

1880s

Native American boarding schools are established in the U.S. with the primary objective of “civilizing” or assimilating Native American children and youth into EuroAmerican culture, while destroying and vilifying Native American culture.

Early to Mid-1900s Tribe adapts and adjusts to reservation life. U.S. government continues to dictate what the Tribe can and cannot do.

1966

Articles of Association are adopted by San Manuel Band of Mission Indians.

President Ford signs the Indian SelfDetermination and Education Assistance Act, a federal policy of Indian selfdetermination, first declared by President Nixon. CREATION

1850s-1860s

American settlers invade Serrano territory. CA governor instructs militias to exterminate Native people. Yuhaaviatam are killed and chased out of their territory.

1866

Raids and bloodshed decimate the Tribe. Kiika’ Santos Manuel makes a decision to courageously bring the remnant of his people from the mountains to safety on the valley floor.

1879

Carlisle Indian Industrial School opens in Carlisle, PA. Thousands of Indian children are shipped from their homes and families to the school to “Kill the Indian, save the man,” to assimilate them into mainstream society.

December 29, 1891

U.S. President Benjamin Harrison signs Executive Order establishing the San Manuel Indian Reservation with 640 acres. Serrano ancestral territory encompassed 7.4 million acres in California.

1934

Indian Reorganization Act is enacted by U.S. Congress, aimed at decreasing federal control of American Indian affairs and increasing Indian self-government and responsibility.

1970

In address to Congress regarding the federal policy of terminating relationships with tribes, President Nixon states, “This policy of forced termination is wrong.” He then outlines a policy of selfdetermination rather than termination.

1975

Photo courtesy of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library

1980s

SMBMI seeks new business opportunities to strengthen sovereignty and journey towards self-sufficiency.

1978

Indian gaming movement begins with Seminole Tribe of Florida.

SELF-DETERMINATION

1986

San Manuel Indian Bingo opens.

1987

California v. Cabazon: U.S. Supreme Court landmark decision affirms right of tribal governments to conduct gaming on their lands.

1988

Indian Gaming Regulatory Act passes, creating statutory framework for Indian gaming.

1990s-2000s

Tribe takes an active role in passing Proposition 5 and Proposition 1A.

1994

San Manuel Indian Bingo adds gaming operations and advances goal of economic selfsufficiency.

1998

Proposition 5 is supported by 63 percent of voters in favor of gaming by Indian tribes in California. A lawsuit by a labor union causes the measure to be struck down by California Supreme Court.

2000

Proposition 1A, supported by 65 percent of California voters, changes the state constitution and provides exclusive right to Indian tribes to operate a limited scope of casino-style gaming on Indian lands, in accordance with federal law.

2006

San Manuel Band of Mission Indians breaks ground on San Manuel Village in Highland, CA, a mixed-use, offreservation, commercial development.

2007

Residence Inn by Marriott opens in Sacramento, CA. The project is from the Three Fires intertribal economic partnership, which includes San Manuel Band of Mission Indians.

2008

Hampton Inn and Suites Hotel opens in Highland, CA, at San Manuel Village, a development of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians.

2019

San Manuel Gaming and Hospitality Authority forms to explore economic growth opportunities.

2021

San Manuel Casino becomes Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel.

Yaamava’ expansion project opens including gaming spaces, new restaurants, lounges and hotel tower, as well as retail, spa and pool amenities.

Hamiinat magazine launches.

2005

New San Manuel Indian Bingo and Casino opens.

Residence Inn by Marriott opens in Washington, D.C. The project is from the Four Fires intertribal economic partnership, which includes San Manuel Band of Mission Indians.

2016

SMBMI acquires sacred lands in San Bernardino Mountains with purchase of Arrowhead Springs Hotel.

2018

Opening of the Autograph Collection, The Draftsman Hotel, in Charlottesville, VA, a joint venture that includes the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians.

U.S. Supreme Court overturns the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA); open door to state-authorized sports gambling.

2022

San Manuel Gaming and Hospitality Authority opens the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas.

San Manuel leads defeat of sports gambling ballot initiative in California; 83% of voters reject Prop 27.

2023

San Manuel Landing opens.

UNSUNG HEROES

The California Native American Caucus honors Native changemakers.

By Dalton Walker

A GROUP OF California state lawmakers, members of the California Native American Legislative Caucus (CNALC), made history this year when it celebrated five remarkable Native people known for their lasting impact and eye for significant change.

The CNALC was formed in March 2021 to increase awareness and inform state lawmakers about tribal nations that are native to California. The caucus has a 10-person executive committee made up from the Assembly Select Committee on Native American Affairs, 23 state Senate members and 33 state Assembly members.

Celebrating its inaugural class during a floor session in August, Assemblymember and Caucus Chair James C. Ramos said this year’s criteria were based on leadership, courage and positive change to tribal communities.

“I wanted to ensure that some of the honorees, who might not be as well-known as others, were recognized,” he said. “They have performed exemplary work in seeking equity and justice on issues such as missing and murdered Indigenous people, preserving Native American culture, pioneering school desegregation or leading a tribe. They are unsung heroes.”

Ramos explained that the inaugural class highlighted four strong Native American women who are giving back to their communities. “Culturally it makes sense as women are held in a high regard within our Native American communities. It was fitting to include San Manuel Chairwoman Lynn

“I WANTED TO ENSURE THAT SOME OF THE HONOREES WERE RECOGNIZED.”

Valbuena as part of the California Native American Legislative Caucus’ first honorees,” Ramos said.

Valbuena has served San Manuel for nearly five decades in a variety of roles and this year was elected to a 6th term as Chairwoman. As Chair, she served on the San Manuel Constitution Working Group and was a signer of the new constitution adopted in 2021.

This year also marks her 29th year as Chairwoman for the Tribal Alliance of Sovereign Indian Nations, an intergovernmental association of Southern California tribal governments. She received the 2024 Tribal Leadership Council Lifetime Leadership Award as well.

HERE’S A LOOK AT THE OTHER HONOREES:

In 1923, a young Paiute girl named Alice Piper initiated integration for Native students at a high school in Big Pine, California. She sued the district on the grounds that her 14th Amendment rights had been violated.

The California Supreme Court unanimously ruled in her favor in 1924. Chief Justice Earl Warren later cited their case as a precursor to the landmark Brown vs. Board of Education decision in 1954. In 2014, 19 years after her death, the Big Pine Paiute Tribe and Big Pine School District unveiled a statue of Piper. June 2 is known as Alice Piper Day.

Morning Star Gali, a Pit River Tribe citizen, is known as a tireless advocate for Native people. She is the founder and director of Indigenous Justice, a nonprofit that advocates for missing and murdered Indigenous people, climate and gender justice and sacred site protection. Her efforts reach across the state, and the impacts will span generations.

Taralyn Ipiña is Yurok and serves as her nation’s first Chief Operations Officer. She has advised tribal leadership for nearly two decades and helped lead the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples Day of Action at the capitol in 2022, along with other legislative advocacy efforts. She recently celebrated her lifetime efforts to restore salmon to the Klamath River when a series of dams were removed.

William Franklin’s legacy lives on in the form of a bronze statue outside the California Capitol, as a result of Ramos’ bill, AB 338. Franklin died in 2000. Last year, the likeness of the late Miwok tribal elder was chosen to represent the Miwok and Nisenan Tribes whose ancestral lands make up present-day Sacramento. This statue is the first and only Native American statue to ever sit on Capitol grounds.

PUYU’HOUPKC ˇ AV

(poo-yoo-hope-k-chahv)

Together

Puyu’houpkcav: together. When all are together as one, we accomplish more. We strive each day towards unity of purpose and spirit.

In this section we learn about the Tribe’s innovative – and involved – approach to philanthropy. We hear the harrowing story of a victim of human trafficking and learn how she and San Manuel are working to put an end to this practice. We see how education can strengthen tribes across the nation and create more understanding between non-Natives. We see how new efforts from the government could bring healing to Indigenous people and see how leadership at San Manuel says thank you to its team members and hear from one team member about her experience with the Tribe.

BY MARGO HILL-FERGUSON

ONE STORY SURVIVOR’S

January is human trafficking awareness month. The following is an account of how easy it is to be trafficked, how pervasive the problem is and what we can do to stop it.

HUMAN TRAFFICKING SURVIVOR RACHEL C. THOMAS, FROM PASADENA,CALIFORNIA, CAME FROM A STABLE, LOVING HOME.

Her mom, an attorney; her dad, a church deacon. And that is a message Thomas wants to get across: not all victims look like the victims in the movies. In fact, she played sports, was voted prom queen and had never experienced abuse.

Thomas was in her junior year at Emory University when she was approached at a college hangout by Mike, who said he was a modeling agent. He was nice, well-dressed and had what appeared to be other models Rachel’s age who sang his praises.

“And that’s how it starts,” Thomas said.

Thomas, who has operated her own education group for more than a decade, is an educator and advocate fighting human trafficking. She was also appointed to the White House Advisory Council on Human Trafficking in 2020 by President Trump and again in 2022 by President Biden.

IN THE UNITED STATES, on average there are an estimated one million human trafficking victims annually, which includes labor trafficking and sex trafficking. Approximately 300,000 of the one million domestic victims are child sex trafficking victims. The legal definition of sex trafficking is “causing a person to engage in commercial sexual exploitation by use of force, fraud or coercion.”

The average age of entry into sex trafficking is 1214 years of age. The average life expectancy for the victim is seven years from the day she or he is first trafficked. One in five sex-trafficked victims are boys. Human trafficking is the number-one growing crime

in America. In a few short years, it has surpassed weapon sales as America’s second most lucrative criminal activity.

Young people can be preyed upon, online or in person. Predators don’t come right out and say they are going to ruin your life for their gain. Thomas explained, “A relationship is formed, a trust is built, there’s flattery.” Whether a relationship is built through a believed romance or a so-called “business opportunity” like modeling, the trafficker knows how to manipulate young people’s emotions and vulnerabilities.

Rachel’s Story

Thomas’ trafficker (who presented himself as a modeling agent) offered to pay for a photo shoot so she could get a “comp card,” a model’s resume that includes a headshot and multiple photos, height and weight. All the things that matter in the industry.

“He wanted to invest in my career,” said Thomas. “And I didn’t want to miss out on anything, plus these other women were so confident in him and talked so great about him.”

Thomas called Mike and he invited her to tag along with Michelle, a girl Thomas had met with him the week before, to a photo shoot. Thomas did everything right: she brought a friend and told her parents where she was going.

“But at that first photoshoot, I let my guard down because everything was so professional. Everyone was so nice. There were photographers, hair and makeup artists and other models.”

“About two weeks later, he got me a paid modeling gig,” Thomas said. “Mike invited me to the set of a music video for a Grammy award-winning artist. I did the video. I got my hair and make-up done, they put me in a cute outfit and I danced. I love to dance anyway.”

At the end of the shoot, Mike congratulated her and said she earned $400. Thomas, a college student living on a modest monthly allowance from her

parents, was excited. Mike had her fill out a W-9 with her permanent address, her Social Security number and her current address, where she was living with her best friend near campus, to receive payment, something she had done for other employers.

TWO WEEKS LATER , Thomas witnessed Mike escalate into violence over something small, which ended up with him beating Michelle. “I didn’t know why this pretty, young girl was dating this older guy. I was scared and just wanted to get back home,” she said.

The next morning, Thomas called Mike to tell him she didn’t want to model anymore. “I heard him shuffle some papers, and then he said ‘You are going to do what I tell you, or someone is going to get hurt. I own you,’” Thomas recalled.

He read off her parent’s home address from the W-9 she had filled out for the modeling gig payment and then told her where to meet him that night. “He said if I didn’t go, he would come for me. Then he read off my address near campus and asked if I understood. I couldn’t respond because I couldn’t even process what was happening. And then he just hung up,” Thomas said.

“I had never called 911 and I had never been in an emergency situation. I didn’t know if the police responded to threats or if I could make a report on Michelle’s behalf because he had hit her, but he hadn’t hit me. I didn’t want to call my parents, get them worried and get a lecture. I decided to stay on his good side and see what he wanted me to do,” said Thomas. That night, Mike had a buyer waiting. He told her what was expected and then Thomas started crying and said, “Please don’t make me do this.” He then grabbed her arm and said, “I told you. I own you and you’re going to do this.”

“That was the first night I was forced into human trafficking,” Thomas said.

In just five weeks, Thomas had succumbed to a

As compared to Caucasian women, Indigenous women are 2X MORE likely to be raped and have a 3X HIGHER murder rate

Up to 50,000 women and children in the U.S. are trafficked for sex every year

1,091,000 1.7 MILLION CHILDREN IN SEX SLAVERY 40% of sex trafficking victims are Native women

27.6 MILLION people in modern slavery globally

PEOPLE IN SLAVERY IN THE USA

USA RANKED AS ONE OF THE WORST COUNTRIES FOR HUMAN TRAFFICKING

56.1% OF INDIGENOUS WOMEN HAVE EXPERIENCED SEXUAL VIOLENCE

RESOURCES

National Human Trafficking Hotline humantraffickinghotline.org

1-888-373-7888 TEXT 233733

Cyber Tipline report.cybertip.org

Magdalena’s Daughters magdalenasdaughters.org 909-906-0472

Million Kids millionkids.org

National Center For Missing & Exploited Children missingkids.org/home 1-800-843-5678

Rachel C Thomas (RCT) rachelcthomas.com/do-something rachelcthomas.com/parent-resources

Radiant Futures radiantfutures.org 877-531-5522

Rescue America rescueamerica.ngo 833-599-3733

Safe Family Justice Centers safefjc.org/contact 951-955-6100

Suicide Crisis Lifeline 988lifeline.org CALL OR TEXT 988

modeling agency scam, she was threatened with violence, the death of her parents and open lines of credit in her name. And this was only the beginning. Five months after that, she succumbed to coercion, believing she was a worthless piece of property and that there was no escape and no hope for redemption.

“Trafficking involves every type of abuse: sexual, physical, mental and spiritual,” Thomas said. “There were so many red flags; there were so many vulnerabilities that were exploited. But I was unaware of what human trafficking was and the tactics of a trafficker,” Thomas said.

Thomas shared that Mike was the scariest person she had ever met and with the constant threats to kill her and her parents if she went to the police, she was too scared and manipulated to defy him or go for help.

Thomas was forced to work in a strip club and she was trafficked at music festivals and sporting events.

“Anytime there are events and men with disposable income, you will find human trafficking,” she shared. “It happens all around us.”

A year later, another victim of Mike’s got the courage to go to the police and Thomas agreed to work with the FBI, testify to the grand jury and do some undercover work. Eventually it became too dangerous

to stay with her roommate so Thomas went home.

“While I was being trafficked, I talked to my parents, but only when I could sound happy and make up something fun I had done the weekend before,” Thomas shared. “But when they picked me up at LAX, I told them what had happened.”

Her dad said, “Rachel, no matter what, we love you, and God loves you.”

Risks for tribal communities…

Familial trafficking happens in all communities, including Indigenous. Other risks to Native communities include people who prey on 16- and 17-year-old tribal members with the sole intention of exploiting them, particularly young people who accrue certain benefits from the limited number of tribal nations that extend general welfare benefits to their citizens.

Why people stay in commercial sexual exploitation, and how others get out…

Thomas said, “We were lucky that the law enforcement officer took it seriously. He didn’t dismiss us as prostitutes.” Many survivors get out with the support of community organizations; some because their trafficker went to jail; other victims develop a drug

habit and are no longer as valuable to their trafficker. They need the support of the community and organizations who can step in with resources to help. Thomas said, “For me, it was police intervention, but for others, it’s community organizations and resources that help them get out.”

How is San Manuel Band of Mission Indians helping?

The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians has actively supported community organizations dedicated to combatting exploitation and abuse. This includes partnering with Magdalena’s Daughters, a therapeutic residential facility that equips individuals who have been sexually exploited with essential life skills. The Tribe has also contributed to the Million Kids mission, which collaborates with local law enforcement, corporations, civic groups and school personnel to protect children from predators by addressing sex trafficking, child abuse and online exploitation. Most recently, San Manuel supported Radiant Futures, an organization focused on creating safer communities through crisis support services for survivors and educational programs to prevent domestic violence and trafficking. As a new award recipient from the Tribe’s 2024 grant cycle, Radiant Futures now serves all local counties.

The Tribe has further implemented internal initiatives, including collaboration with the Riverside Sheriff’s Department to provide human trafficking training for tribal and corporate leaders, as well as team members. Additionally, San Manuel’s Human Resources Department developed a Family Internet Safety webinar with resources and tips for staying safe online and regularly publishes a team member newsletter focused on human trafficking awareness. How can parents and communities prevent human trafficking in their community?

People need to be educated on human trafficking that happens in their communities and trained to identify the signs of a predator.

Thomas suggests parents be a listening ear for their children on any topic. A lot of kids don’t talk to parents if they feel like they will be lectured or get in trouble.

Community members can call hotlines to help get someone out of a bad situation.

What Rachel Thomas is doing now….

Rachel runs a prevention program called “The Cool Aunt.” She believes youth need safe adults and that it takes all of us as community members to fight human trafficking. Thomas stated, “We also need to prosecute ‘Johns,’ the men buying sex, and make sure they don’t get off with a slap on the wrist.”

Visit rachelcthomas.com to find the eight critical things we can do to combat human trafficking. For free access to “The Cool Aunt Series,” visit TheCoolAuntSeries.com then click on “Purchase Now” and enter offer code “SanManuel”

Thank You!

Thank you Gaming America Magazine and Global Gaming Awards, for recognizing the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians as the 2024 Responsible Business of the Year.

We are proud to be honored among our peers for our commitment to set the standard for tribal governments, gaming operations, hospitality businesses and philanthropic organizations connected to global gaming.

California’s FIRST PEOPLES

An annual celebration to educate and enlighten.

By Angelica Loera / Photography by Jaquai Herrera

CALIFORNIA NATIVE American Day (CNAD), celebrated on the fourth Friday of September, is a powerful occasion to honor the distinctive cultures of the Indigenous peoples of California. Established in 1998, the day aims to dismantle misconceptions surrounding California Native Americans, who have historically been misrepresented in education and popular culture. This celebration not only highlights the triumphs and struggles that shape their rich history but also calls for greater awareness and understanding of ongoing contributions.

For too long, California history began with the arrival of European explorers, neglecting the deeprooted societies that thrived long before. Native populations were often stereotyped or reduced to simplistic images of teepees and drums. CNAD seeks to rectify this narrative, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the diverse tribal groups that have inhabited the region for thousands of years.

Attending local schools, tribal citizens like James C. Ramos noticed how the Native American histories were not reflective of his personal experience growing up on the San Manuel Indian Reservation.

“I attended Belvedere Elementary with my cousins and one day a teacher played a song using a drum, an instrument not local to Southern California tribes. This teacher asked us to share with the class what the meaning of the song meant. We replied we did not know, the teacher said, ‘Well you must not be Indian enough.’”

This experience had a deep impact on him and in 1998, he worked with the local school district to start a California Native American Day Indian Conference. Since that time the conference has educated more than 50,000 third and fourth graders by allowing them to experience the culture of California’s first peoples. The students participate in language, arts and music, all meeting the social science standards in an engaging and experiential manner.

To illuminate California’s vibrant Native tapestry, the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians and California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB)

partner to host California Native American education, discussions and a celebration across several days in September. During a week-long field trip, 1,500 local students visit CSUSB to engage in workshops about the culture and traditions of Southern California’s Native American tribes. San Manuel Band of Mission Indians also collaborates with the university to host a gathering of local dignitaries, elected officials and education leaders, focusing on the impact of curriculum and legislation regarding the recognition of the unique identities and issues facing the state’s First Peoples.

To cap off the week, an evening celebration is held on campus on the fourth Friday of September. The event is free and open to the public, and attendees can experience culture and explore these themes for themselves. Bird Singers and dancers in traditional regalia bring to life the stories of their tribe’s history and cultural values. Native artisans also showcase their crafts, including traditional jewelry, basketry and textiles, while food vendors feature traditional foods like fry bread.

CNAD is not just a celebration, but also a call to action for all Californians to engage in learning about the music, art and culinary traditions of their state’s Native peoples. By bringing together students, community members and leaders, CNAD fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of the diverse tribal cultures that have shaped California’s identity. Ultimately, it invites everyone to participate in the journey of recognition and revitalization of Native American voices, ensuring that their legacies continue to thrive for generations to come.

Another STEP TOWARD HEALING

A painful history of forced boarding schools – and a hope for amends.

BY RICHARD ARLIN WALKER ILLUSTRATION BY MER YOUNG

BBryan Newland visited Alcatraz island in 2023 and looked down into the underground prison cell where 19 Hopi leaders were held 130 years earlier for refusing to send children from their villages to boarding school.

The men were imprisoned there for two years, more than 1,000 miles from their families and homelands.

“As I stood there, I imagined their lives, their hopes for the children in their villages and their experience with the U.S. Government,” wrote Newland, the U.S. Assistant Secretary of the Interior for Indian Affairs.

“I also reflected on our work … to tell the truth about our nation’s history of operating federal Indian boarding schools. I thought of the hundreds of people we have met in communities across the country, who came to share their experiences, and their relatives’ experiences, at federal Indian boarding schools –many, for the first time.”

On July 30, the Interior Department released the second and final volume in its investigative report documenting the history and legacy of U.S. federal Indian boarding schools. Tens of thousands of Native children were forcibly removed from their families from 1871 to 1969; many died from sickness, neglect or abuse.

Newland (Ojibwe) and Interior Secretary Deb Haaland (Laguna Pueblo) hope the report will push the U.S. toward full accountability for the painful legacy of the federal Indian boarding school era and support healing and redress for Native communities.

Volume 2 expands on information contained in the first volume, released in 2022, regarding the number and location of boarding schools, student deaths, number and location of burial sites, names of religious institutions and organizations that operated the schools on behalf of the government and federal dollars spent on operating the schools – more than $23.3 billion in 2023 dollars, according to the report.

This volume also updates the official list of federal Indian boarding schools and maps to include 417 institutions across 37 states or then-territories. It provides profiles of each school and confirms that at least 973 Native American, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian children died while attending federally operated or supported schools. The report identifies at least 74 marked and unmarked burial sites at 65 school sites.

The volume recommends the Federal Government take steps to acknowledge its role and repair the generational damage caused, including establishing a national memorial to acknowledge and commemorate the experiences of Indian tribes; identify and repatriate remains of children who never returned home; return former federal Indian boarding school sites to tribal nations; and invest in further research regarding the present-day health and economic impacts of the federal Indian boarding school system.

“For the first time in the history of the country,” Newland wrote, “the U.S. Government is accounting for its role in operating Indian boarding schools to forcibly assimilate Indian children, and working to set us on a path to heal from the wounds inflicted by those schools.”

Haaland launched the Federal Indian Boarding School Initiative in 2021 to document the troubled legacy of federal Indian boarding school policies and address its intergenerational impact.

In late 2023, Haaland and Newland conducted a 12-stop tour across the country – called the Road to Healing – that provided survivors the opportunity to share with federal officials their boarding school experiences. Many of those stories are included in an oral history collection that will be accessible to the public, according to the Interior Department.

In addition, the Indian Health Service and the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration began offering support services to boarding school survivors.

THE U.S. BOARDING school system was a model for Indigenous boarding school systems in other countries – countries that are ahead of the U.S. in confronting that troubled history.

Canada’s efforts began nearly 20 years ago. The government apologized and paid settlements to more than 79,000 former students; established a Truth and Reconciliation Commission and a National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation; and designated Sept. 30 as National Day for Truth and Reconciliation to recognize the survivors of residential schools, their families and the children who never returned home. The federal government also provides counseling and crisis support services for survivors and family members.

Australia announced in 2021 it would pay hundreds of millions in reparations to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders who were rounded up by government officials and sent to boarding schools and churchrun missions. Australia estimates as many as one in three Aboriginal children were removed from their families and sent to schools and missions between 1910 and 1970.

“Comparable to Native American boarding schools in the United States and the Canadian residential schools for Indigenous children, Australia’s program aimed to eliminate all traces of Indigenous culture from their wards,” The Washington Post reported in 2021. “Their actions ended up scarring many of the children for life, according to Australia’s Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission.”

Some reviewers of the report are grateful that the two-volume report acknowledges the tragedy of the forced boarding school era, but they say some important facts are missing. The two-volume report, while comprehensive and exhaustive in its study, does not include information about federally-run day schools, where children were subjected to abuse.

John Boone, a teacher at Polacca Day School on the Hopi reservation, was sentenced to life in prison in 1987 for sexually abusing students. The government paid $13 million to settle eight related lawsuits, but a number of boys committed suicide. “That’s not included in this report,” a reviewer said. “Who knows where else it’s happened?”

Native American students were subjected to harsh or demeaning treatment at day schools. A former student who attended another day school recalled getting swatted on the hand with a ruler for speaking in his language, and of being told to shower after a weekend home.

“The message was that they wanted to rid us of whatever we came into contact with for the two days

that we weren’t at school,” he said, “They largely viewed any association with our community, with our culture, with our Tribe, with our clan, to be unwanted and out of favor.”

In addition, tribal lands were lost. Phoenix Indian School was established on lands on which the Akimel O’odham, Havasupai, Piipaash and others had lived since time immemorial. But when the school closed in 1990 after 99 years of operation, the land was not returned.

Instead, the federal government deemed the land surplus and traded much of it to a Florida developer in exchange for 108,000 acres of land in the Everglades. The developer built 4.7 million square feet of commercial space and established a $34.9 million educational trust fund for Native Americans in Arizona, but the land was gone.

AMID TRAGEDY, STORIES OF RESILIENCE

Stephanie McMorris (Hidatsa/Ho Chunk/Potawatomi) is a counselor at Sherman Indian High School in Riverside. She said the forced boarding school era is part of the history of the United States and must be discussed in schools. There was tragedy, but there are also stories of strength and resilience.

“My parents went to boarding schools,” McMorris said. “They have their own experiences; everyone’s had their own experience. And I know for some people, there was tragedy. But there were some lifesaving parts of it too. Some of that era was during the Great Depression and some parents sent their kids to boarding schools so they could eat.

“I’m not dismissing how horrible it was but there’s a whole spectrum of experiences. Yes, it was horrible what the federal government did. But we survived. We never lost our Nativeness or Indianness. We discovered different tribes and we built a community out of that. Some people had painful experiences. But I’ve met respected elders who said they learned things they were able to use later in adapting to this new world economy, and they developed lifelong friends.”

AN AMERICAN APOLOGY TO NATIVE NATIONS

Two hundred years after the first federal Indian boarding school was authorized and funded by the Indian Civilization Act Fund of March 3, 1819, President Joe Biden’s apology for the tragic effects of the federal government’s assimilation policies on American Indians and Alaska Natives is a welcome gesture.

The apology offered before a small crowd of tribal leaders and representatives on the Gila River Indian Reservation in Arizona on October 25 was welcomed by tribal nations across America.

A two-volume report, “Federal Indian Boarding School Initiative Investigative Report,” prepared under the watchful eye of Secretary of Interior Debra Haaland (Laguna Pueblo) and issued in 2022 and 2024, is the incentive for the apology.

The National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition reports that more than 523 government-funded, and often church-run, Indian boarding schools operated across the U.S. in the 19 th and 20 th centuries. The goal of the Indian boarding school policy was to assimilate Indian people – beginning with the children.

According to one tribal official, Native men built much of downtown Phoenix using skills they learned at Phoenix Indian School. “They were taught to be carpenters and bricklayers and plasterers and mechanics and plumbers – all the things that would prepare them for work in the trades,” he said.

The landmark report and its recommendations come during a presidential election. Come Jan. 20, the United States will have a new president and, likely, a new Interior Secretary. There could be a different majority party in the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate.

One tribal official said tribal nations must ensure the recommendations in the report are fulfilled.

“We’ve got this report that documents and acknowledges this history of pain and suffering,” he said. “On the federal level, it’s stopping here. But I hope this motivates tribes to take control of their own destiny in this. Federal Indian policy is all about self-determination, and tribes should use this report and that experience to make a difference.”

The Coalition further observed that Indian children as young as four were abducted by government agents, sent to schools hundreds of miles away and beaten, starved or abused when they spoke their Native languages.

That the apology was offered in the first place is somewhat of a miracle.

For more than 500 years, treatment of the First Americans has been a tragic tale. How is it that the boarding school experience warranted an apology and not the theft of Indian lands, distribution of blankets infested with smallpox or the massacres of Indian people at places like Wounded Knee?

Only America knows the answer. Here are instances of apologies extended to other people for the wrongs inflicted upon them.

In 1988, President Ronald Reagan signed the Civil Liberties Act, which provided a formal apology from the United States government for the incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II. The Act provided for cash payments to surviving Japanese Americans.

In 1993, the U.S. Congress passed the

Apology Resolution, also known as Public Law 103-150, to apologize to Native Hawaiians for the overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawaii in 1893, as a step toward reconciliation with Native Hawaiians.  The resolution acknowledged the U.S.’s role in the overthrow, the suppression of Native Hawaiian sovereignty and the devastating effects on the Hawaiian people.

On July 29, 2008, the House of Representatives passed a resolution, HR. 194, as an apology for American slavery and implementation of Jim Crow laws.

The U.S. Senate passed Senate Concurrent Resolution 26 in 2009, as an apology for the enslavement of millions of Africans and their descendants from 1619 through 1865.

Much of Indian Country expressed gratitude to President Biden for the boarding schools apology. Still not known is whether it has the backing of both chambers of the United States Congress, and if the apology will lead to enhanced honor and respect for the sovereignty of tribal nations and a fulfillment of the trust and treaty obligations owed to tribal nations.

TRAILBLAZERS

Recognizing San Manuel’s philanthropic impact while looking to the future.

By Lissa Townsend Rodgers

IT’S BEEN ALMOST three years since San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, through San Manuel Gaming and Hospitality Authority (SMGHA), purchased Palms Casino Resort, becoming the only Native American tribe to own and operate a casino resort in Las Vegas. In that short time, SMGHA has made a significant positive impact in Nevada’s philanthropy community, a status that was celebrated at the 2024 Moonridge Foundation Philanthropy Leaders’ Summit, where San Manuel was one of four honorees. Moonridge recently reinstated the awards to nominate trailblazers in the community. The foundation gives its Trailblazer Award to four Nevada recipients – one individual and one organization each from the north and the south of the state.

“The Moonridge Foundation exists to connect funders and community and nonprofits so their giving is more impactful, more strategic and more innovative,” explained Moonridge CEO & Principal Julie Murray

As musician and philanthropist Shania Twain said in her introduction to the event, the summit “brings together visionaries and changemakers from diverse sectors all driven by shared goals to create a positive social impact on both a local and global scale” and making an impact on its community has always been important to San Manuel.

MaryGrace Rendina, Moonridge’s Vice President, recognized that the desire to create a positive

impact is innate to San Manuel, as embodied by “the importance of ‘Yawa,’ meaning to act upon one’s belief. They want to support organizations that are creating a better tomorrow.” She added that “they embody the tribal values and principles, which means they don’t just write a check, they walk alongside their nonprofit partners.”

The theme of this year’s summit was “Where the future of giving is going.” It’s one that particularly fits the inclusion of San Manuel, as the SMGHA practices a more expanded, multi-faceted type of giving in the Las Vegas community. It is a disciplined approach to philanthropy, which has allowed the Tribe to give more than $400 million in charitable support over the last 20 years, with $6 million directly across 168

organizations in Las Vegas since 2022, when Palms reopened under SMGHA ownership.

As Murray noted, “One thing San Manuel does that more funders are doing now is they’re leveraging their donations. What we’re seeing more of and recommending to others is to leverage your cash donation, with volunteerism, with in-kind, with employee matching… if you’re giving X amount, when you leverage it, it’s a bigger gift combined.”

San Manuel’s cultural beliefs and philosophy shape its approach to philanthropy, one that is guided by a commitment to meaningful, lasting change. This philosophy emphasizes the importance of deeply understanding a community’s challenges by engaging within it in order to make a holistic recommendation. San Manuel finds these opportunities have an enduring impact rather than temporary relief.

This approach aligns well with Moonridge’s mission to foster innovation and embrace the future of philanthropy. “We believe it’s so important to nurture that next-gen group of philanthropists,” explained Murray. “And it aligns beautifully with San Manuel’s philosophy of seven generations because it’s not just about the here and now, it’s about what we can do for the many generations to come.”

SMELLS LIKE TEAM SPIRIT

San Manuel thanks its team members for all they do.

By Angelica Loera / Photography by Tiffany Melendez

By investing in experiences that bring employees together, the Tribe fosters a culture of respect, recognition and appreciation

THIS SUMMER, San Manuel Band of Mission Indians celebrated its team members with the muchanticipated Team Appreciation Day (TAD), where the Tribe covers admission, parking and meals at a Southern California theme park elected by its team members. It is an appreciated tradition and one of many ways the Tribe shows its gratitude to its workforce. Inviting family members is a cornerstone of TAD, as the Tribe recognizes a supportive home life is essential to team member happiness.

This year, Knott’s Berry Farm was the venue of choice for a day of fun and connection with their families, colleagues and leaders. A dedicated picnic area welcomed them with a DJ, photo booths, cold beverages, giveaways and a variety of food, including Knott’s iconic boysenberry pie. Activities were available throughout the day, and team members buzzed with excitement as they explored the park freely.

Like every year, the Tribe went above and beyond by booking extended park hours so team members and their families could enjoy the attractions without the typical summer crowds, allowing everyone to explore the park at their own pace. Many hopped on their favorite rides over and over to make the most of the extra hours. As the day wound down, new memories, smiles and laughter reflected the reciprocated gratitude to the Tribe.

By investing in experiences that bring employees together, the Tribe fosters a culture of respect, recognition and appreciation. This day not only honors the past year’s achievements but also lays the groundwork for continued teamwork and success in the future.

TEEING UP FOR A GOOD CAUSE

How an annual golf tournament has helped thousands of people in need.

By Jessica Villano

Photography by Tiffany Melendez & Steven Robles

FOR A QUARTER of a century, the San Manuel Golf Tournament has raised funds for nonprofits that improve the lives of Native people and those in their surrounding communities – throughout California and beyond. Since 1999, the event has raised more than $3.5 million for more than 70 charities. This year’s proceeds of $480,000 broke records, giving eight charities each $60,000 in much-needed and much-appreciated unrestricted funds. Here’s a look at the 2024 recipients:

Elevate Navajo, modeled after Elevate USA, seeks to build long-term, life-changing relationships with Navajo youth, equipping them to thrive and contribute to their community. The goal is to increase academic achievement and community engagement for Navajo youth and inspire the next generation of leaders.

Southwest Indigenous Women’s Coalition is a tribal coalition serving tribes in Arizona. The nonprofit provides policy advocacy, education and training, technical support and culturally sensitive

“THIS YEAR’S PROCEEDS OF $480,000 BROKE RECORDS. ”

support services for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and MMIP. It also ensures tribes are equipped with resources to keep communities informed and safe, as well as able to respond to issues.

Junior Achievement of Southern California (JASoCal) equips young people with the tools to solve problems, manage risk and welcome opportunity. With integrated learning models – and the help of volunteer role models and partners – JASoCal empowers the next generation with the skills, knowledge, capacity and motivation to overcome financial instability and build a better future.

Firefighter Cancer Support Network is a national nonprofit that helps firefighters, EMS professionals and their families cope with cancer. Its goal is to provide occupational-cancer awareness, prevention training and support for those dealing with cancer.

Lindy Waters III Foundation, a nonprofit organization based in Oklahoma, supports Native youth through access to leadership, sports and health and

wellness programs. Started by NBA pro Lindy Waters III (Kiowa and Cherokee), who currently plays with Oklahoma City Thunder, the organization hosts basketball clinics and tournaments for Native youth to learn new skills and has granted students scholarships to support academic needs.

Growing Inland Achievement (GIA) is a collaborative with the mission of improving the long-term economic outlook of the Inland Empire of Southern California. GIA’s vision is that San Bernardino and Riverside counties will be recognized for their educated workforce, thriving communities and vibrant economy that creates prosperity for all.

Phenix Gateway empowers individuals with disabilities to secure employment through innovative job training programs and advocacy that remove barriers and promote equal opportunity. By providing workforce development workshops, they pave the way for career trajectory for individuals with disabilities.

Social Work Action Group (SWAG) advocates, educates and inspires people in the Inland Empire to achieve sustainable independence through community support. SWAG services include homeless street outreach, case management, housing services and community outreach.

BY PROVIDING WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOPS, THEY PAVE THE WAY FOR CAREER TRAJECTORY FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES.

EMPOWERED & EDUCATED

During a week-long educational session – while connecting with past, present and future peers – Indigenous people developed strong leadership skills under the guidance of professors at Harvard Business School.

IN NOVEMBER of 1944, the perpetual threat that termination and assimilation policies posed to tribal governments drew nearly 80 delegates – from 50 tribes and associations in 27 states – to the Cosmopolitan Hotel in Denver, Colorado.

Their goal: to protect inherent rights of Native people. This was the first Native Constitutional Convention, and it was the start of the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI).

Since then, NCAI has been protecting and enhancing treaty and sovereign rights; preserving Native culture; leading initiatives that tackle threats to Native people; and improving the quality of life for Native peoples and communities as a whole.

Today, one of the ways NCAI works to improve the quality of life is though the Empowering Leaders Series, which seeks to help Native people reclaim

By Jessica Villano

their voices in media and government, find innovative ways to deal with environmental issues, increase their economic standing and establish themselves as leaders in their communities and beyond.

IN JUNE 2023, nearly 80 tribal leaders, representing 55 sovereign tribal nations, convened at Harvard Business School for NCAI’s first Leading Tribal Nations Executive Education Program, which is part of the Empowering Leader Series.

NCAI’s first-of-its-kind program offered a comprehensive education in effective leadership, crisis management and stewardship of natural resources by connecting tribal leaders with professors from one of the most prestigious universities in the country, as well as with peers who face the same issues.

“Being in the room with so many tribal leaders

from different nations that I may have otherwise not had the opportunity to interact with added to my ability to look at a situation from different angles, different points of view,” said Shavonne Smith, Environmental Director of the Shinnecock Nation.

The program had so much impact on the way the participants learned to problem-solve, work with one another and protect their tribes’ culture and interests, NCAI offered the same opportunity to interested Native leaders during the summer of 2024.

The 2024 NCAI Leading Tribal Nations Executive Education Program took place June 23 - June 28 at Harvard Business School, bringing together over 77 tribal leaders from 46 tribal nations and 18 Canadian first nations.

The success of the 2024 program was bolstered by the participation of Canadian first nations,

EDUCATION

expanding the initiative’s reach and fostering crossborder collaboration. This reflects the program’s growing impact as a model for Indigenous leadership development on a global scale.

As with the first year, each day focused on a different theme, which included: responsibilities of authority; strategic mindset for leading teams; leadership and crisis; principles of environmental and natural resource management; negotiation tactics; governance; and strategic trade-offs.

With a multi-faceted approach, students dug into areas of instruction to gain knowledge from all perspectives, question beliefs and concepts and bridge gaps in understanding. They then applied the earned insights to their own communities.

Each day began with a group discussion, before diving into case studies – the educational model used at Harvard Business School. These case studies were a way for Native leaders to work through problems that parallel circumstances faced by tribal nations: loss of sovereignty, limited resources and the impact of crisis on the people.

Case studies included Entrepreneurship in a Changing Arctic: Siberian Reindeer Herders and the Northern Sea Route, where participants examined balancing economic opportunity against a fear of changing climate, in which so many variables are still unknown.

During the day’s session, Anders Oskal (Sámi), Secretary General of the Association of World Reindeer Herders and Executive Director of the International Centre for Reindeer Husbandry, analyzed plans developed by reindeer herders to increase meat sales through arctic shipping routes.

With this case study, tribal leaders saw how continuing traditional practices while adapting to the modern world has allowed Indigenous people to remain strong in culture.

“We are always looking for innovative ways to incorporate Western business practices with our

“WE ARE ALWAYS LOOKING FOR INNOVATIVE WAYS TO INCORPORATE Western business practices with our traditional practices.”

traditional practices...it is imperative we marry those two worlds together since we cannot serve everybody in the same ways,” explained Barbara Gladue, (Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa) Oregon Tribal Public Health modernization manager.

In poring over the Chilean Mining Rescue case study, participants had to develop creative problem-solving skills and be effective leaders and communicators during times of uncertainty – and with limited resources, circumstances that mirror the reality of many Native communities.

They also recognized the importance of incorporating the knowledge of other organizations to solve a problem unique to their community.

“With nation-to-nation engagement, we unite by providing solutions to each other’s predicaments... we have the answers within Indian Country when we are willing to reach out to one another,” said Emerald Skye Byrd, (Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana) Director of Communications for the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development.

“The Leader Series is more vital now than ever as tribal nations navigate increasingly complex challenges.

The program equips leaders with tools for strategic thinking, crisis management and coalition building while fostering connections across tribal nations,” said NCAI Foundation President Greg Masten. “As one of Indian Country’s most generous tribal nations, San Manuel’s support exemplifies the importance of investing in tribal nation building, ensuring leaders have the tools and networks to strengthen their communities and advance sovereignty. With Harvard Business School’s world-class faculty and curriculum, this program is a transformative space for building the future of collaboration, as well as the protection of tribal sovereignty and self-determination.”

“This is a program that transcends the spectrum, from critical thinking to legacy leadership, crisis communication, coalition building, resource management and more,” said Shannon Holsey, president of the Stockbridge-Munsee Band of Mohican Indians. Holsey participated in the first cohort in 2023 and stated that, “The time at Harvard affords a broad range of rigorous and rewarding experiences full of personal enrichment and expanding the dialogue surrounding tribal nation building.”

NEW LANGUAGE OF LAW

A clerkship program prepares students to handle the intricacies of tribal law.

By Dakota Kim

ON HER FIRST day working for the San Manuel Legal Department Summer Law Clerk Program, Celina Stops was overwhelmed by how different the practice of law in-house on behalf of a tribal client was from what she’d learned during her first year of law school at University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), where she serves as the Vice President of the National Native American Law Students Association (NALSA).

“I was so caught off guard my first day, because I had no clue what I was looking at,” said Stops, who hails from the Crow Tribe of Montana. “It felt just like my first year of law school classes, when I was learning this new language of law.”

Stops’ experience is unsurprising, since legal practice on behalf of Native American tribes is a notoriously challenging and diverse sector requiring understanding not only of tribal intricacies, but also how federal law applies to tribes. “Tribal law is not something you can prepare for,” the rising second-year law student said. “It’s something you have to practice.”

This summer, Stops and fellow legal clerk Ann Caindec, also a second-year law student at UCLA Law who is a member of the Tinglit and Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska and Native Hawaiian, had the unique opportunity to work as tribal law clerks at San Manuel, studying under the close tutelage of their mentors Senior Staff Attorney Cheyenne Sanders and Staff Attorney Anna Hohag. San Manuel Deputy General Counsel Tim Evans shared, “It’s not easy to develop a summer law clerk program for an in-house law department, because most potential clerks are comparing job opportunities at private law firms or with federal and state governmental agencies, and in-house departments often are not even considered by law school students. So, the challenge is to give them

something worthwhile, to provide an opportunity to grow professionally with work that will push them as well as interest them.”

Evans attributes much of the summer program’s success to the in-house attorneys managing it. “Our attorneys Cheyenne Sanders, Anna Hohag and others involved in establishing and overseeing the summer clerk program have done an incredible job in rising to that challenge – they deserve so much of the credit. In addition to being great attorneys in their own right, they have quickly made a two-year-old program into highly competitive, much-sought-after positions for law students. And that is in large part due to San Manuel’s in-house legal department being unique, both as to the attorneys in it and the client who relies upon it.”

The San Manuel legal clerkship program and UCLA’s Tribal Legal Development Clinic, partially endowed by the Tribe, aim to help all of Indian country. Both law clerks say experiencing the San Manuel program has been career changing. “I knew tribal law was something I was interested in, but I didn’t know I could make a career out of it,” Stops said. “It’s really special to be working in this area of law,” Caindec said. Practice on behalf of Native nations is complex and wide-ranging and can require knowledge of all areas of civil law, including the tricky balance between tribal laws and federal Indian laws, and law pertaining to such diverse areas as real estate, litigation, the environment, employment, business structures, sponsorships and philanthropy, gaming and intellectual property. “Native law has been contradictory historically, with different executive orders, laws and treaties, some of which were amended or repealed, but are still looked at as a source of authority,” Caindec explained.

Evans went on to say that, “With over 200 years

“The clerkship helped me find my place, and it’s here, being an attorney and helping Native people.”

—Ann Kahikina Caindec

of combined experience among our attorneys, we have without a doubt one of the best tribal legal advocacy groups available to any tribe – from our most recent associate attorney hire to our chief legal and compliance officer and everyone in between, I would put our group up against any private firm’s Native law practice group in the country, bar none. Our attorneys have been partners and associates in large national firms, served as a federal regulator overseeing tribal gaming nationwide, worked inhouse with other tribal and corporate clients, served in state and local governments, advanced large-scale high-profile transactions, sat on the legal bench as judges and litigated some very important court cases on behalf of tribes. That gives our in-house legal department an incredible wealth and variety of experiences to share with the summer clerks.”

Sanders, the department’s point person for the

summer clerk program, sees the clerks’ professional growth first hand. “The clerks get to apply that learned experience to assignments for a client who has one of the most interesting portfolios of legal work of any organization – tribal or otherwise. The work here covers tribal government-focused projects, including tribal governance, family law, trust lands, physical security and other internally facing areas, as well as work on economic development projects, including the commercial-gaming venture in Las Vegas at Palms Casino Resort and the federal Indian gaming law-governed operations at the flagship Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel. With that portfolio of potential work, our summer clerks have the opportunity to sit in a court hearing, work on a major transaction and provide advice on a tribal social service program, all in the same day or week. No firm or government agency can offer that.”

“It’s really special to be working in this area of law,” Caindec said. “The clerkship helped me find my place, and it’s here, being an attorney and helping Native people.” According to the American Bar Association, Native Americans make up the smallest racial or ethnic group among U.S. lawyers with just over onehalf of 1% of all lawyers (0.7%) self-identifying as Native American, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander.

“By cultivating a positive, challenging and fulfilling experience for our summer law clerks, we strive to do our part in increasing the number of Native American attorneys that join this important profession,” Hohag said. “While all tribes are unique, we understand firsthand the positive difference it makes for tribal governments to know their legal counsel understands cultural competencies and unspoken protocols when working on important legal issues impacting tribal governments and their community members.”

Evans concluded by saying, “One of the best things about having great talent doing work for a great client is that it enables us to draw other great talent, and that’s what we’ve seen in our summer clerks. On paper, they are involved in leadership positions at their law schools and in national organizations like the NALSA; they participate in law review journals, moot court competitions and law student practicums to give them real-world experience – all of the things you look for in solid summer clerks. But on site they are even better. They meet and work seamlessly with tribal citizens, turn around thoughtful and wellwritten work product and aim to integrate with the rest of the legal team. Our first couple of cohorts have set a high bar, and that can only mean good things for the tribal clients I hope they will go on to serve, as well as for our summer program’s reputation and future draw of quality candidates.”

COMMUNITY CHAMPS

In downtown Redlands, two close friends have united over a common cause: showing love to their neighborhood and making everyone who lives there feel like family.

BY RUSS WEAKLAND PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICK DAVIS & JOEL EDWARDS

1LoveIE

In a world where brands often feel impersonal, 1LoveIE is forging connections with its customers. Founded more than a decade ago by Justin Hudson, known affectionately as J Hud, the 1LoveIE CEO and Riverside City College professor has evolved his apparel and hat line to become a thriving community brand that champions unity, love and authenticity.

What makes 1LoveIE so unique is its ethos, which is simple but beautiful, “Together we are one,” a belief that Hudson has shared throughout his journey, emphasizing community over commercialism.

“When you wear our gear, you’re not just supporting a brand; you’re joining a movement that promotes peace, love and unity,” Justin explained.

The name 1LoveIE stands for “One Love Inland Empire & 1 Love In Everything.” Hudson’s mission is to give back to the community that made him the person he is, someone who wears his heart on his sleeve…and on every hat and shirt he designs. It’s this passion and sense of community that appealed to the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians and led to a relationship between the two.

“It’s a match made in heaven,” Hudson said about the collaboration with Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel, which includes exclusive merch sold at the resort. “We don’t just have customers; we have family members. People come in, hang out and share their stories with us. That’s what it’s all about.”

With an ever-growing customer base, a bustling new store in Redlands and locations throughout the Inland Empire, Hudson has found himself immersed in work. Yet, he still carves out moments to reflect on his journey. “We try to appreciate the little victories, like when someone tells us how we’ve inspired them. It’s amazing.”

As he navigates the complexities of running a successful store while teaching and engaging with the community, J Hud remains grounded in his mission. “I wake up every day feeling free and inspired,” he said. “We want this brand to be a reminder for everyone to love themselves and pursue their dreams,” he said. “We’re all on this journey together.”

“TOGETHER WE ARE ONE.”

The Rise of Deaux

Right next door to 1LoveIE, in the heart of downtown Redlands, sits a unique gourmet donut shop called Deaux. Here, donuts are more than a sweet treat; they represent the connection to the community that founder Naz Tomassian has always dreamed of. Step into the shop and you’ll hear the chatter of customers enjoying a moment of indulgence of the most amazing donuts you’ve ever tasted. But it wasn’t always like this for Naz and his business partner Justin Roldan.

“Everything was a surprise,” Naz said. From navigating city regulations to unforeseen construction delays, the journey was filled with unexpected challenges. One of the biggest being the public’s mixed reactions to Deaux’s adventurous flavor combinations, such as the savory Pastrami Donut. “They were very skeptical,” he said and laughed. “But once they tasted it, they were hooked.”

Today Naz credits Deaux’s success to his community meet-and-treat events: Before the shop was officially open, he strolled the streets of Redlands with trays of donuts, inviting locals to try the creations. When they did open their doors in October 2023, a line stretched down the block with customers excited to try the novel flavors.

Naz’s enthusiasm for gastronomy led to some of his grand ideas but he needed help bringing those ideas to life. “I found Chef Mallory and while she hadn’t made donuts before, her pastries were incredible,” Naz recounted. Together, they brainstormed unique flavors, including Orange Blossom, Miso Caramel Banana and the now-famous Pastrami Donut.

Each donut is a testament to creativity and craftsmanship. “Everything we do is by hand,” he explained. “We source the freshest ingredients from local farms, make our own lemon curd and whip up our own aioli sauces.”

Naz is also collaborating with Yaamava’ Resort & Casino on an exclusive flavor to be sold onsite, but for now he’s holding those details close to the vest. “It’s a secret. But I can say the flavors tie in with the Tribe’s heritage.”

More than a business, Deaux has the potential to become a legacy Naz can pass down to his children. He dreams of a place where people can form their own memories, gathering with friends and family over donuts on special occasions. “In 20 years, I want people to say, ‘I grew up in Redlands, and I remember getting donuts from Deaux.’”

Each donut is a testament to creativity and craftsmanship. “EVERYTHING WE DO IS BY HAND.”

Relax and rejuvenate in a boutique hotel environment nestled in the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains.

We have accommodations for the entire family. * Rollaway bed & cribs available * Enjoy an exquisite selection of American-style bistro specialties, 24/7 in-room dining & complimentary 24/7 shuttle service to Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel.

Solace For SURVIVORS

Domestic violence victims find support on their healing journey.

By Matt Villano

LIFE AS A survivor of domestic violence is frightening, painful and traumatizing. Survivors long for a haven, a refuge where they can relax.

This is the mission of Desert Sanctuary in Barstow.

Desert Sanctuary is the only emergency domestic violence shelter in the Mojave Valley. In addition to housing survivors for up to six months, the facility runs a 24-hour crisis hotline and provides social work services and other support systems to assist survivors in paving the path to a new future. The center serves everyone, regardless of gender, age, income level or ethnicity.

And according to Executive Director Rosalinda Palakiko, currently the program serves more than 2,000 community members annually.

“Our role is to help survivors in every aspect of their lives, so they don’t have to go through any of it alone,” she said. “Whatever it takes to help these people reclaim their lives, that’s what we provide.”

Helping Hand

Desert Sanctuary was founded in 1982, after a community task force identified the need.

Today, the organization’s ADA-compliant shelter and transitional housing comprise almost 30 beds for domestic violence survivors and their children.

The shelter, which was built in 2016, provides space for emergency stays of up to 30 days. It also offers extensions for up to eight months while survivors work on legal, financial and educational goals.

Initially, the facility only provided housing. Gradually it expanded to incorporate other services, such as court-ordered supervised visits.

In 2000, Desert Sanctuary opened the Community Outreach Office, through which the organization acts as a liaison between survivors and community organizations that provide additional support.

Specifically, this office runs a case management program dubbed Living Inspired Fearless and

“Our role is to help survivors in every aspect of their lives, SO THEY DON’T HAVE TO GO THROUGH ANY OF IT ALONE.”

Empowered (LIFE). Social workers affiliated with this program help survivors with everything from managing finances to submitting restraining orders.

What’s more, Desert Sanctuary runs the Cedar Chest Thrift store; all proceeds go directly to supporting the Baby Center, which provides free diapers, low- or no-cost clothing, household items and other supplies for survivors with babies.

“In a moment of crisis, you’re only thinking about what you need to survive,” said Palakiko. “We provide a support network to help determine all the other necessary pieces.”

Impact on Community

The impact of Desert Sanctuary on the local community has been immeasurable.

Palakiko estimated the organization touches nearly 2,000 individuals each year – even more if one considers those who shop at Cedar Chest Thrift.

Peggy Fries, who served as Executive Director of the organization for 26 years until she retired this summer, added that several local and regional organizations have partnered with Desert Sanctuary to support its programs. San Manuel Band of Mission Indians is one of them, with a partnership that began in 2014.

Fries noted that grants from San Manuel were instrumental in helping Desert Sanctuary build its new shelter in 2016. She said additional grants empowered the organization to launch the LIFE program in 2020.

“Every time there has been something new we want to start, San Manuel has been there,” she said. Supporting Desert Sanctuary has been a priority for San Manuel because without domestic violence services and resources, survivors can’t create a safer and healthier life.

What’s Next

With continued support from partners such as San Manuel, the future is bright for Desert Sanctuary.

Palakiko said one of the organization’s longterm goals is to leverage grant money to erect a new housing complex with multiunit apartments to provide safe and affordable living spaces for families.

In the short term, she hopes to increase outreach to incorporate awareness programs in junior high schools, high schools and community colleges throughout the area.

“The lesson is that they don’t have to be in a relationship with someone who treats them with disrespect,” she said. “We want to get out there and connect with a younger demographic, so they understand early on that violence is wrong at every level.”

MOVING ON UP

A San Manuel team member shares her journey from unemployed single mother to supervisor–and how she was able to reach these heights.

By Angelica Loera

Photography by Robert John Kley

WHEN SANDRA ENOS speaks about her career, her eyes glisten with gratitude and pride. Over the last 30 years, San Manuel’s kitchens have represented learning, stability and opportunity to the Food & Beverage Supervisor and her family. In every role, she has pushed herself beyond her comfort zone and achieved things that at first felt daunting. With a love for San Manuel as abundant as her career, it is no surprise that Sandra is like family to the Tribe.

How did you get started with San Manuel? I was a single mom of six with no car, so I called two or three times a week to see if they were hiring. They finally called me back for a cook position, and I was so happy. I never left food and beverage. I just moved on up.

Tell us about your journey from your first position until now. When I started as a cook, I made homemade soup, which I had never done before. I made 55 gallons every day. I was just guesstimating everything I needed. Then I made 50 pounds of potato salad, chili beans, taco meat, macaroni salad and coleslaw every other day. Eventually, I was a lead cook and then they asked me to be a supervisor. I said yes because I worked hard. I then moved up to working on the Reservation and have been here for 18 years. I was scared at first –the kitchen was hard to let go of – but I got the hang of it and I’m mostly in the front of the house now.

What do you like about working for San Manuel? I love working for the Tribe. I’m close with some of the tribal citizens. I’ve watched the kids grow up and now they have their kids. They’re like family to me so I work hard for them.

How has San Manuel been supportive in your life? I thank the Tribe for giving me this opportunity to take care of my family and my kids, and for giving us a good life.

“I’ve watched the kids grow up and now they have their kids. They’re like family to me so I work hard for them.”

M ÜC ˇ I SCK

(muh-chish-chk)

Favorites

Müčisck: your favorite things. A word to acknowledge all those things in life you find yourself drawn toward.

In this section we meet a pastry chef who takes inspiration from her childhood to create delectable treats and see how other chefs at Palms Casino Resort and Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel are upping their dessert game. We experience a legendary season of USC football courtesy of the MVPs themselves and we feast our eyes on a few styles and accessories set to turn up the heat this winter.

Photography by Robert John Kley

Red and Gold Reversible Hooded Dress by Jason Baerg

Photography by Robert John Kley

Styled by Christie Moeller

Style Assistant Tiffany Weekes

Hair and Makeup by Krystle Randall

Model Heaven-Lee LaFreniere

ALMOST Mythical

Evoking fairy tales and shapeshifting lore, winter’s style is, above all, dramatic. But look again and you’ll find Indigenous motifs, exquisite craftsmanship and lovingly upcycled pieces.

Highland Peak Sherling Cloak by Lindsey Thornburg

Upcyled Vintage Tartan Plaid Skirt by 4KINSHIP

Christopher Porter

Water Lily Aspen Bustier by Patricia Michaels

“Echo” Overly Tulle Ribbon Skirt with Pockets by Sky Eagle Collection

Lace Dress by Sky Eagle Collection available at skyeaglecollection.com.

Foliage Collection Neck Plate by Jennifer Younger available at JenniferYoungerDesigns.com

Upcycled Victorian Lace Velvet Ribbon Dress and X Kellen Trenal Upcycled Victorian Velvet Cape with Obsidian Arrowheads by 4KINSHIP available at 4KINSHIP.com

Bespoke Lace Nááts’íilid Fringe Jumpsuit and Upcycled Vintage Technicolor Coat by 4KINSHIP available at 4KINSHIP.com

HIGH CONTRAST

Each issue we curate a collection of clothes, gifts and accessories that stand out from the rest. This issue we found items that range from Art-Deco elegant to 70s glam.

BY

Black Pebble Suitcase by Pixie Mood available at Cache & Carry.

PHOTOGRAPHY

ROBERT JOHN KLEY STYLED BY JUDEAN SAKIMOTO

TRES CHIC

Reaching Dawn Polarized Sunglasses available at 1891 Boutique. Mr. Blonde After Shave Spray by Thomas Blonde available at 1891 Boutique. Flutissimo by Baccarat available at HERS. Little books of Gucci, Chanel and Louis Vuitton available at HERS. Perfect Intense by Marc Jacobs available at 1891 Boutique. Mini Mirror Hermatite Speaker available at Cache & Carry.

NO GRAY AREA

Porto Hat and Miller Bag by Pia Rossini available at 1891 Boutique. Onipa’a Asian Fit Sunglasses by Maui Jim available at HIS. Seersucker Drawstring Shorts and Three Button Polo by Bugatchi available at HIS. Forever Blonde Candle by Thomas Blonde available at 1891 Boutique. Plum Cashmere Candle by Roam Candles available at Serrano Spa at Yaamava’. Black Thomas Blonde Travel Bag by Thomas Blonde available at 1891 Boutique. Soaps by Zents available at Serrano Spa at Yaamava’. Room Re-Fresh & Linen Spray by Thomas Blonde available at 1891 Boutique.

HOW IT IS SWEET

PHOTOGRAPHY BY HANNAH RUSHTON

Chocolate chip cookies and apple pies are tried-and-true favorites. But when you’re ready for an elevated experience, check out what the pastry chefs at Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel and Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas have in store. Here, whimsical additions like gold dust, diamond rock sugar and chocolate cremeux transform simple sundaes and tarts into sublime experiences.

SPUMONI MOUSSE CAKE

Serrano Vista Cafe at Yaamava’ Cherry mousse filling, chopped cherries, covered in a chocolate glaze, on top of a pistachio biscuit.

PLATED CARAMEL APPLE

Scotch 80 Prime at Palms

Caramel crunch cake topped with roasted, spiced apples inside a creamy apple mousse then topped with green apple glaze. Served with apple cider caramel sauce.

APPLE TAR T

The Pines Modern Steakhouse at Yaamava’ Almond frangipane cake topped with brown sugar-and cinnamon-sautéed green apples. Served with a cinnamon ice cream.

CARAMEL PEANUT TART

Serrano Vista Cafe at Palms

Chocolate tart filled with a salted caramel butter, roasted peanuts and chocolate cremeux. Topped with marshmallow fluff, chopped Snickers bar and a golden peanut tuile.

“ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE. But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt.”

— CHARLES M. SCHULTZ

BLACK FOREST CHOCOLATE TART

Big Mo Cafe at Yaamava’

Cherry simple syrup-soaked chocolate sponge cake with morello cherry gelee and chocolate ganache and glaze. Topped with a ribbon of cherry whip, gold dust and gold flakes.

14

“KARAT” GOLD SUNDAE Serrano Vista Cafe at Palms Salted caramel and vanilla ice cream sundae drizzled with caramel and topped with pecan carrot cake, chocolate gold coins, diamond rock candy and gold leaf.

DYNAMIC DUO

Reggie Bush and Matt Leinart relive glory during their reign on the USC Trojans.

By Nikyah Thomas Pfeiffer

THEY ARE CONSIDERED one of the 50 best all-time playmaking duos in college football.

University of Southern California (USC) alum running back Reggie Bush and quarterback Matt Leinart reunited at Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel for an unforgettable night at the Legends Dinner on July 29.

Emceed by FOX Sports television personality Jay Glazer, Bush, 39, and Leinart, 41, didn’t hold back on a slew of topics, including Bush being stripped of his 2005 Heisman Trophy, only to have it returned this year, and those controversial plays that the most passionate college football fans continue to talk about.

Glazer dove right into the burning questions surrounding the 2010 NCAA investigation into Bush and his family, who were rumored to have received cash and other perks from two sports agents while at USC, which violated National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) rules at the time.

“I met with the Heisman Trust to address the allegations. I was very forthcoming and I told them the story was all about extortion from day one; they chose to ignore it and made their decision.

“I was told through my attorney that I was being stripped of my Heisman Trophy,” Bush said. “It was very unfortunate. I was young and didn’t understand why. Why was I being labeled a cheater when I never cheated a day in my life? Why was I public enemy #1? I always answered the call on the field whenever my number was called. I gave 110 percent of whatever was asked of me. That was a dark time in my life.”

“IT WAS SUCH A RELIEF WHEN I HEARD I WOULD BE GETTING MY TROPHY BACK…”

Although Bush voluntarily forfeited his trophy, he maintained his innocence and never gave up trying to reclaim his trophy. He credits the defamation suit filed by former USC football assistant Todd McNair against the NCAA as the start of the process to reclaim his Heisman Trophy. McNair was accused of violating ethical conduct rules during the investigation into Bush and his family.

“I went to Jacksonville, North Carolina, where my peers voted to reinstate my Heisman award. It was such a relief when I heard I would be getting my trophy back,” Bush said. “While I didn’t think it would take so long – 14 years – to resolve this, I knew the truth would eventually find its way out.”

Dynamic Duo: The USC Trojan Years

As USC Trojans, Matt Leinart and Reggie Bush, with help from their teammates, dominated college football. Their collegiate record speaks for itself.

Leinart threw for 10,693 yards and 99 touchdowns over three seasons as USC’s starter. He won the Heisman as a junior (2004) en route to a national championship. At one point, Leinart and Bush helped USC win 34 consecutive games. The two were picked in the first round of the NFL draft.

Bush won the Heisman in 2005. On 200 carries, he ran for 1,740 yards and 16 touchdowns. Along with Leinart, he was one of the key players who led USC to the BCS National Championship Game, where the Trojans fell just short to the Texas Longhorns.

“It was an exciting time for USC football,” said Leinart. “At the time, there was no NFL team in the market, the Shaq and Kobe era was ending, and all other professional sports teams weren’t as popular… we felt like it was our town. It seemed like everyone gravitated to USC football. I give a lot of credit to head coach Pete Carroll, who gave us the latitude to show up on game day, work and play hard while allowing us to be ourselves. It was an incredible run.”

2005 USC vs. Notre Dame: The Controversial Plays and the Invention of the Bush Push Picture this: October 15, 2005, a regular season game and the rivalry was brewing. Notre Dame pulled out all the stops to intimidate the USC players as they arrived in South Bend, Indiana.

“Notre Dame orchestrated a massive pep rally in front of our buses,” Bush said. “No police or escorts were separating us from them. We started rocking our buses in response to their tactics, mimicking the massive balls of energy ready to go. We barely had space to get off the bus and enter the stadium. The rally signs they carried were too offensive to mention.

“Notre Dame players came out of the tunnel in their infamous green jerseys with the clear intent to intimidate their opponent,” Bush added.

“Everyone knew that if Notre Dame players entered the field in their green jerseys, it was because of their superstition that they would win the game every time they wore them,” said Leinart. “Our team saw that as a challenge.”

Clearly, the Trojans were not impressed with the antics of the Fighting Irish.

As the final quarter of the nail-biting game wound down, Leinart got sacked at a critical point in the game, forcing USC into a 4th-and-9-yard pickle (all the while facing the end of the season).

Leinart followed up the sack by drilling a perfect pass to teammate Dwayne Jarrett to pick up 61 yards. You could have heard a pin drop as Touchdown Jesus and Notre Dame fans watched in stunned silence.

Reenergizing the USC team, they inched closer to victory. The game’s final play ended with Leinart attempting to leap into the endzone. With the clock winding down, Notre Dame Stadium came back to life as it appeared USC fell short, ending the ballgame. Or was it the end?

As officials replayed the footage, the ball appeared to have popped out and landed out of bounds. This decision gave USC the time it needed to organize what some consider the most savage (genius) and controversial play in collegiate football: the Bush Push.

“I remember every play on that drive,” Leinart said. “Notre Dame prematurely stormed the field. With no time-outs and seven seconds left on the clock, coach Pete Carroll signaled for us to down the ball, but I chose a different play. I was going for it. I told my linemen that we were running the ‘QB Sneak Play.’ I remember thinking, ‘This is either going to be the best play in football history or the worst play in history, which will cost us the championship game. I don’t remember Reggie pushing me into the endzone during that play. I thought I got through the endzone on my own,” Leinart laughed.

Reggie recounted the play that led to their infamous win.

“Matt didn’t even know that I pushed him in the endzone. When you run a Quarterback Sneak, never has a quarterback been successful running a play like that where they ran it standing up straight,” he laughed. “We had high expectations every time we played a game. After we won, it was the only game where I actually cried.”

The infamous Bush Push play is now being emulated in the NFL, namely by the Philadelphia Eagles.

Leinart and Bush spoke so fondly of their wild, fun times playing football at USC that the audience couldn’t help but feel like they were there with them. One thing was evident as they took a trip down memory lane: their brotherhood and friendship transcends time.

LEINART THREW FOR 10,693 YARDS & 99 TOUCHDOWNS OVER THREE SEASONS AS USC’S STARTER.

BAKING BLISS

One chef’s intersection of art and science, expressed through flour and sugar.

By Jessica Villano / Photography by Hannah Rushton

“SOMETIMES GROCERIES were sparse as a child,” said Tammy Alana Purdy. “I enjoyed rummaging through the cabinets and making something out of nothing for my mom and siblings. It was like a game.”

Today Purdy is Executive Pastry Chef at Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas, and while she’s always loved being in the kitchen, her heart is with pastry.

“I enjoy cooking, but there is just something so gratifying about the science of baking,” she explained. “A well-made dessert or bread can feel so rewarding. Plus, I’m surrounded by sugar all day.”

Purdy began her career at the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone in Napa Valley and then moved on to high-profile spots such as Le Cirque and Andre’s Downtown on 6th Street, both in Las Vegas. The chef gained more opportunity and recognition when she was invited to the James Beard House in New York and appeared on Food Network’s baking competition show, “Sugar Rush.”

In 2019, Palms Casino Resort closed due to the pandemic but when it reopened under the new ownership of San Manuel, Purdy returned.

Kitchen Sink Cookies

Yields: approx 32 cookies

8 oz Soft Butter

2/3 cup Granulated Sugar

2/3 cup Brown Sugar

2 Eggs

1 ½ tsp Vanilla Extract

2 ½ cups All-Purpose Flour

2/3 cup Rolled Oats

1 ¼ tsp Salt

1 tsp Baking Powder

½ tsp Baking Soda

2 oz Butterscotch Morsels

3oz Peanut Butter Morsels

3 oz Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels

2 oz White Chocolate Morsels

½ cup Toasted Pecans (chopped or halved)

¼ cup Shredded Coconut

¼ cup Mini Marshmallows (cut in half)

¼ cup Potato Chips ¼ cup Pretzels

Set oven at 325F (convection). Cream the soft butter with both sugars. Incorporate the eggs and vanilla. Stir in the flour, oats, salt, baking powder and soda just until combined. Add the remaining ingredients. Do not over mix. With an ice cream scoop, measure out approximately 2 oz. rounds, or 55g pieces if you have a scale. Bake 10-12 minutes, depending on preference for crispness. Let cool and serve.

“It’s wonderful to be back at Palms; it’s like family,” she said. “I’m fortunate to have an amazing team dedicated to creating unique sweets for our guests.”

One of those unique sweets? A 10-foot-long cake that replicated a piece of an artist’s work. Purdy recalled navigating the cake up the stairwell with the entire pastry team to present the cake to said artist as he celebrated his birthday.

“The challenges I faced that day are something I will never forget. But it all came together without a hitch, and the look on their faces when we rolled in the cake was worth it,” Purdy said.

When asked to share one of her favorite recipes, she thought back to where it all began: her childhood. “This cookie recipe made me feel nostalgic,” she explained. “Because sometimes we had nothing but the kitchen sink.”

BABYFACE: LIVE IN LAS VEGAS

2025 RESIDENCY

FEBRUARY 14 & 15

MAY 9 & 10

YURIDIA

SIN LLORAR US AND CANADA TOUR MARCH 13

THE ISLEY BROTHERS JANUARY 17 & 18

TRIVIUM & BULLET FOR MY VALENTINE APRIL 10