The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana announced the start of a project that will ultimately protect Plaquemines Parish from future hurricanes and weather events. The work will be completed by Tunica-Biloxi JSTAR, LLC (TB-JSTAR), a subsidiary of the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe’s Economic Development Authority as part of a Joint Venture with JSTAR Enterprises.
TB-JSTAR began work in March 2025 in partnership with the New Orleans District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in support of this project. The work marks a historic achievement for the Tribe as the first project under their joint venture with JSTAR Enterprises.
The Wilkinson Canal Pump Station Project is a critical infrastructure initiative aimed at enhancing hurricane water flood prevention measures for hundreds of thousands of residents in south Louisiana. The project involves replacing and repairing pumps at the Wilkinson Pump Station, directly safeguarding lives, homes and properties in a region highly vulnerable to severe weather events.
“This is not just a contract, it is a responsibility,” said Tabitha Frost, President of Tunica-Biloxi Services and an architect of the Tribe’s expansion into federal contracting. “The Wilkinson Canal Pump Station Project underscores our commitment to creating a tangible impact in our communities while building sustainable economic opportunities for the Tribe. This is just the beginning as we carve a path forward in the federal contracting arena.”
TB-JSTAR serves as the prime contractor on this standalone project, taking charge of day-to-day management, safety, regulatory compliance, and execution of the work itself. The joint venture is a strategic partnership between Tunica-Biloxi Services, LLC, a current Small Business Administration’s (SBA) 8(a) Program participant and HUBZone firm and New Orleans-based JSTAR Enterprises, a woman owned small business, HUBZone firm, and former participant in the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) 8(a) Program.
The SBA 8(a) Program is a business development initiative that provides small businesses with resources, mentorship and opportunities to compete in federal contracting. The TB-JSTAR JV is serviced by the SBA’s Louisiana District Office. Two years ago, the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe identified federal contracting as a pathway for economic growth and hired Frost in December of 2024 to lead the federal government portfolio. The Tribe’s proactive steps are now yielding significant results, with several projects in progress, including a roof replacement at Shaw Air Force Base.
A key figure in the project is Wendy Barbry Lemoine, a tribal member and President of TB-JSTAR, whose administrative oversight and coordination are pivotal to its success. Lemoine’s leadership embodies the Tribe’s commitment to fostering talent from within and empowering members to take on critical roles in advancing their shared vision.
Chairman Marshall Pierite of the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe emphasized the broader significance of this achievement. “This milestone exemplifies the vision and resilience of the Tunica-Biloxi people. Through strategic partnerships and leveraging federal programs like the 8(a) initiative, we are driving economic growth and ensuring the well-being of our community and the region. I couldn’t be prouder of Tabitha, Wendy, and the entire team for leading us into this new era.”
The Wilkinson Canal Pump Station Project symbolizes the beginning of a transformative journey for the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe in federal contracting. By addressing urgent infrastructure needs and safeguarding communities, the Tribe is proving its capability to deliver meaningful, high-impact solutions.
The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana announces the re-election of Chairman Marshall Pierite to serve as Chairman of both the Inter-Tribal Council of Louisiana (ITCLA) Board of Directors and the Institute for Indian Development (IID) Board of Directors. These re-elections affirm Chairman Pierite’s ongoing commitment to collaborative leadership and his steadfast dedication to advancing the needs of tribal nations across the state and country.
Chairman Pierite’s leadership has been pivotal in shaping coordinated efforts among Louisiana’s tribal communities in areas such as cultural preservation, economic growth, community development and government-to-government advocacy. His continued service in these roles ensures that critical progress and momentum will be sustained well into the future, especially significant as ITCLA marks its 50th anniversary in 2025.
“I am deeply honored to continue serving our tribal nations through these vital organizations,” said Chairman Marshall Pierite. “Our work is rooted in tradition but focused on the future. We are investing in our people, protecting our sovereignty and building stronger communities that reflect our values, resilience and vision for generations to come.”
The Institute for Indian Development, established in 1981, serves as a forward-thinking extension of the ITCLA’s foundational mission. Focused on long-term, community-driven growth, the IID provides support in areas such as workforce training, entrepreneurship, leadership development and strategic planning that aligns with each tribe’s unique heritage and goals.
The IID’s consortium includes both federally and state-recognized tribes:
Federally-recognized tribes:
Chitimacha Tribe of Louisiana
Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana
Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana
Jena Band of Choctaw Indians
State-recognized tribes:
United Houma Nation
Choctaw Apache Tribe of Louisiana
Clifton Choctaw Tribe of Louisiana
Together, the Inter-Tribal Council of Louisiana and the Institute for Indian Development serve as key platforms for uniting these tribes in shared advocacy and empowerment. Their joint mission is to deliver meaningful resources directly to communities ranging from education and employment initiatives to social services, infrastructure support, and cultural revitalization efforts. As ITCLA celebrates five decades of service this year, both organizations remain deeply committed to ensuring tribal nations only preserve their identities and thrive in modern society through self-determination and strategic investments.
“Our collective mission is to bring lasting impact to Native communities in Louisiana and beyond,” said John Silver, Executive Director of ITCLA and IID. “As we celebrate the Inter-Tribal Council’s 50th anniversary, it’s especially meaningful to have Chairman Pierite’s steady leadership guiding us into the future. His ability to unify diverse voices and drive meaningful action continues to inspire progress and partnerships that benefit every tribe we serve.”
In addition to Chairman Pierite’s leadership, the Boards of ITCLA and IID are composed of respected tribal leaders from across the state, each bringing invaluable experience and dedication to the table.
The current elected officers include:
Hon. Marshall Pierite, Chairman Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana Chairman & CEO
Hon. Melissa Darden, Vice Chairman Chitimacha Tribe of Louisiana Chairman
Hon. Lora Ann Chaisson, 2nd Vice Chairman United Houma Nation Principal Chief
Together, these leaders will continue building on the legacy of progress established through decades of intertribal collaboration, advocacy and innovation.
The public is invited to celebrate native culture with vibrant arts, captivating storytelling, and thrilling dance at this year’s must-see event
The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana will host its 27th Annual Pow Wow on May 17 and 18, 2025, at the Chief Joseph Alcide Pierite Pow Wow Grounds on the Tunica-Biloxi Reservation in Marksville, Louisiana. This annual public event welcomes various regional indigenous tribes to come together and celebrate their shared cultures through vibrant craft displays, music performances, dance presentations and cultural exhibits. Throughout the weekend, a variety of interactive events and live performances will showcase the history and traditions of the Tribe, while also offering attendees the opportunity to learn about the cultural richness of neighboring tribes from across the region.
“The Pow Wow is an important moment for us to not only reflect on the strength and resilience of our people, but also to celebrate the shared cultural spirit of Native American communities,” said Tunica-Biloxi Chairman Marshall Pierite. “After years of successful events, we are working tirelessly to make this year’s event even more impactful. It’s a time for us to honor our accomplishments and highlight the ongoing contributions of all indigenous tribes. The success of one tribe is a victory for all of us as we continue to pass down our rich traditions.”
This year’s event will feature a wide array of performances, including the Tunica-Biloxi Singers & Legend Keepers, AC Woodlands Singers, Buc Wild Singers, Thunder Boy Singers, and Medicine Tail Singers. Dance competitions will be held for participants from ages 6 to 55+, and dancers can pre-register for the event by May 14, 2025. The Pow Wow will also host over 30 food and craft vendors, offering traditional foods, indigenous arts, jewelry, and handmade crafts. Vendors interested in participating are encouraged to contact Babette Bordelon – babette.bordelon@tunica.org or Paulette Voiselle – pvoiselle@tunica.org.
In addition to the Pow Wow celebrations, the Tribe will host a free Education Day on Friday, May 16, 2025, with two presentations at 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. at the Tunica-Biloxi Gymnasium. Education Day is designed to give local children and school groups a hands-on opportunity to learn about Native American culture through Pow Wow dance demonstrations, Tunica-Biloxi storytelling, flute music, and interactive cultural exhibits. For more information, contact Elisabeth Pierite-Mora at emora@tunica.org or (318) 240-6432.
General Admission for the 2025 Pow Wow is $8.00 for adults and children over five years of age and $5.00 for children under the age of five. Registered dancers will be admitted with assigned numbers. Hotel reservations at Paragon Casino Resort are welcome by direct phone call to our special group reservations number at Paragon Casino Resort reservations office (800) 642-7777 and/or fax to (318) 240-6601. Rate code: TBP15GR
For generations, Native American Tribes have been powerful economic engines, playing a vital role in strengthening America’s economy. As the nation looks toward a more prosperous future, the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe stands ready to lead efforts in revitalizing the manufacturing sector and call center industries—bringing American jobs back home and ensuring sustained economic growth.
Over the past 25 years, the United States has seen a significant decline in its manufacturing sector, shedding more than 5 million jobs, including over 40,000 in Louisiana alone. Additionally, the outsourcing of hundreds of thousands of call center positions have weakened local economies and deprived American workers of stable employment opportunities. This trend is not only unacceptable—it is reversible. The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe is prepared to take decisive and strategic action to restore these jobs, recognizing that strong nation-to-nation partnerships are not just beneficial but essential to the nation’s long-term economic health.
President Trump has acknowledged the critical role of America’s Tribal Nations in the economy, prioritizing investment in tribal governments during his first term. Across the country, Native American reservations represent vast yet largely untapped economic potential, boasting a ready workforce, competitive tax incentives, and the infrastructure necessary to support significant business expansion. Indian Country can be a driving force in reshoring American jobs, and the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe is prepared to lead this effort with a renewed commitment to economic development and sustainability.
As Chairman of the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana, I have seen firsthand how tribal businesses fuel economic expansion and how job training initiatives create pathways to prosperity. A prime example is the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe’s Paragon Casino Resort in Marksville, Louisiana. For over 30 years, Paragon has been a cornerstone of economic development, providing thousands of jobs to both tribal citizens and non-tribal workers across central Louisiana. Beyond employment, Paragon has invested more than $40 million in contributions and donations to support local communities, demonstrating the Tribe’s unwavering commitment to shared prosperity. Yet, our potential extends far beyond gaming. The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe has also been a leader in the financial services industry and has successfully operated a call center on our reservation for over 12 years, further strengthening our economic footprint.
Building on this legacy of economic leadership, the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe is now expanding its efforts, particularly in the textile industry—one of the largest manufacturing sectors in the United States. We are in the process of restoring and revitalizing an existing manufacturing facility to establish a cut-and-sew operation under Tunica-Biloxi Industries. This initiative is expected to generate quality jobs, increase revenue, and enhance our Tribe’s long-term economic sovereignty while making a lasting impact on American manufacturing.
However, even greater economic opportunities remain untapped. To fully realize this potential, we must empower America’s Tribal Nations to expand their economic influence and sustain long-term growth within their communities. The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe is committed to investing in workforce development programs and job training initiatives that equip our people with the skills necessary for long-term career success and financial independence.
America’s Tribal Nations are among the country’s greatest economic assets. Investing in shared economic prosperity is not just an option—it is a necessity for ensuring a stable, thriving national economy. We are committed to working with leaders who recognize the economic strength of Indian Country and the crucial role we play in revitalizing the American workforce and local economies. A thriving national economy depends on expanding opportunities in Tribal communities, ensuring that Native households and businesses have the resources they need to succeed. Federal programs that support Tribal governments are not merely diversity initiatives; they are rooted in the foundational government-to-government relationship between sovereign nations, aimed at fostering economic prosperity for both tribes and their non-tribal neighbors alike.
With President Trump’s leadership, we are witnessing the dawn of a new American Golden Age—an era defined by resilience, collaboration, and self-determination. The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe is committed to working alongside President Donald Trump and Congress to address shared challenges and create meaningful economic opportunities for all Americans, paving the way for sustained economic growth and stability.
Indian Country stands at a pivotal moment. The opportunity before us is unprecedented, but as the saying goes, an opportunity of a lifetime is only available during the lifetime of the opportunity. That time is now, and we must seize it with unwavering determination and strategic action.
The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana is proud to announce that Dr. Julie Zahn, Council Member At Large, has been appointed to the United States Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Violence Against American Indian and Alaska Native Women Tribal Leaders Council (OVW TLC or Council). Dr. Zahn, who is both Tunica-Biloxi and Choctaw, was elected to the Tunica-Biloxi Tribal Council in April 2024 as an advocate for Indigenous communities, focusing on initiatives that promote equity, empowerment and safety for Native women.
This appointment reflects Dr. Zahn’s leadership and commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by Indigenous women, and emphasizes her role advancing the Tribe’s interests on both a regional and national scale. Dr. Zahn’s appointment to the OVW TLC aligns with the Tribe’s broader efforts to advocate for social justice and the well-being of Native communities.
The OVW TLC, established by the DOJ’s Office on Violence Against Women, provides a forum for Tribal leaders to exchange insights and expertise on federal programs aimed at combating domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking and sex trafficking within Native communities. The Council is charged with offering policy recommendations, advising on legislation, and facilitating the implementation of programs designed to strengthen the safety and protection of American Indian and Alaska Native women.
In addition to her leadership on the Tunica-Biloxi Tribal Council, her role as the Director of the American Indian Center of Houston underscores her commitment to serving Native populations, as the Center provides resources for American Indians and Alaska Natives in the Houston area.
“The appointment of Dr. Julie Zahn to the Violence Against American Indian and Alaska Native Women Tribal Leaders Council is a pivotal moment for our Tribe and will prove beneficial to the broader Indigenous community,” said Tunica-Biloxi Chairman Marshall Pierite. “Dr. Zahn’s vision and dedication will undoubtedly make a significant impact in the fight to protect Native women and ensure that their voices are heard at the highest levels of government.”
As a representative of the Eastern Region, Dr. Zahn will serve alongside 11 other leaders on the Council, contributing to the development of policies and programs that enhance the safety, empowerment and healing of survivors across Indian Country.
The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe congratulates Dr. Zahn on this remarkable achievement and commends her for her steadfast commitment to creating safer, more just communities for American Indian and Alaska Native women.
The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana has been awarded a $5 million Indian Housing Block Grant (IHBG-Competitive) by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). This significant funding will support the construction of 11 single-family rental homes, addressing critical housing needs within the Tribe’s community. The project will include a variety of layouts, providing much-needed housing for Tunica-Biloxi families, reducing overcrowding and ensuring safe, reliable housing on the Tunica-Biloxi reservation in order to bring more tribal citizens home to their ancestral lands.
“This award represents a monumental step forward for the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe in our mission to enhance the quality of life for our citizens,” said Tunica-Biloxi Chairman Marshall Pierite. “The construction of these homes will significantly reduce the housing needs in our community and create opportunities for families to thrive – it also is an opportunity to bring our citizens home for good. I am deeply grateful to the dedicated individuals whose expertise and hard work made this achievement possible.”
The success of this initiative is a result of collaborative efforts led by an outstanding team:
Project Director: Earl Barbry, Jr.
Director of Land and Facilities: Ron Bordelon
Housing Director: Stephanie Stiles
Tribal Employment Rights Officer: Terryl Pierite
Their collective leadership and vision were instrumental in crafting a compelling application and will be vital in ensuring the successful implementation of this project. Additionally, Chairman Pierite acknowledged the invaluable contributions of the grant committee members—Francine Darby, Jacob Snow, Amy Sampson and Megan Guillot—as well as Larry Andrews and Kevin Billiot, whose technical expertise was essential in securing this funding. The homes will be built in Heritage Villa on the Tribe’s reservation in Marksville.
“The construction of these 11 new homes is not just about providing shelter; it’s about creating a foundation where families can feel safe, supported, and empowered to build a brighter future,” Tunica-Biloxi Director of Housing Stephanie Stiles stated. “These homes will directly address critical needs in our community, reducing overcrowding and providing families with a stable and secure place to call home. It’s an honor to contribute to a project that will have such a lasting impact on the lives of citizens and the future of the Tribe.”
This project is expected to begin in January 2025, with an anticipated completion date of May 2028. The project as a whole represents a critical step in addressing housing challenges faced by the Tunica-Biloxi community and demonstrates the Tribe’s unwavering commitment to improving the well-being of its citizens.
Chairman Pierite added, “This achievement underscores a belief my father often expressed: ‘It takes teamwork to make the dream work.’ Together, we are building a stronger, more resilient future for the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe.”
Regional casino players voted for Paragon Casino Resort to be in the top three across seven categories, including Casino Floor, Customer Service, Entertainment and more.
Paragon Casino Resort was recently honored by voters across seven categories in the 2024 Gaming & Destinations Readers’ Choice Awards. Regional casino voters selected Paragon Casino Resort as a top-three leader in Casino Floor, Sports Bar, Entertainment, Entertainment Venue, Customer Service and Theme. Paragon’s elite championship golf course, Tamahka Trails, was also voted one of the best casino golf courses. These prestigious awards reflect the exceptional experiences that Paragon offers its guests.
Each year, the Gaming & Destinations Readers’ Choice Awards gather input from casino-goers and travelers, recognizing the best in gaming, leisure and hospitality across several regions. The awards celebrate the top destinations across the country, with categories covering all aspects of casino resorts from player experience to property amenities. Paragon’s achievement is recognized for the Louisiana award region.
“Being recognized in seven categories by our guests in the 2024 Gaming & Destinations Readers’ Choice Awards speaks to the dedication of our entire team in providing outstanding experiences across every aspect of the resort,” said Paragon Casino Resort General Manager Marshall Ray Sampson, Sr. “From the energy of our casino floor to the exceptional service our guests receive, this recognition highlights the commitment to excellence that defines Paragon.”
This is not the first time Paragon Casino resort was recognized for excellence by voters in 2024. Paragon was voted as having the overall Best Blackjack for the Native South regionin the 29th Annual Best of Gaming Awards by Casino Player Magazine along with 16 other top-three honors. Additionally in 2024, Paragon was voted first in five categories for Strictly Slots Magazine’s 2024 Best of Slots Awards. Those first-place wins include Best Reel Slots, Best Casino Cocktail Service, Best Nickel Slots, Best Comps and Best Players Club Lounge also in the Native South region.
Visitors who want to check out why voters continuously recognize Paragon Casino Resort can enjoy the benefits of Club Paragon, a free rewards program offering exclusive perks and discounts on dining, spa services, retail and more. To learn more about Paragon Casino Resort, you can plan your visit by going online to paragoncasinoresort.com.
The Association on American Indian Affairs (the Association) is pleased to announce the release of the agenda for the 10th Annual Repatriation Conference: Igniting Change. This year’s conference will be held February 25–27, 2025, at the Paragon Resort in Marksville, Louisiana, hosted by the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe. The agenda offers a dynamic lineup of training, workshops, and cultural events aimed at advancing repatriation efforts and fostering collaboration.
This year, the conference provides comprehensive training on the new Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) regulations, which were issued in January
Attendees will walk through the step-by-step process through hands-on training sessions led by NAGPRA experts, covering the practical implementation of the new regulations, which includes strict timelines, deference to Native Traditional Knowledge, and enhanced consultation protocols requiring consent. The conference will also provide methods to create a healthy environment for repatriation practice, as well as explore topics such as international repatriation, illicit trafficking, hazardous treatments, working with the media and other topics related to the protection of Native cultural heritage.
“As we prepare to host the 10th Annual Repatriation Conference, we are honored to welcome Native Nation leaders, cultural practitioners, and advocates from across the country,” said Tunica-Biloxi Chairman Marshall Pierite. “This milestone gathering underscores the vital work of reclaiming and protecting our Ancestors, sacred items, and cultural heritage. It is a profound responsibility and privilege to continue these efforts together, fostering collaboration and shared purpose in restoring what is rightfully ours.”
The conference also includes a variety of immersive events, such as a special screening of The Great Salish Heist on the first night of the Conference at the Paragon Theater. This gripping story follows Steve Joe, a traditional archeologist, as he teams up with unlikely allies to reclaim stolen ceremonial items. On the second evening, a cultural event with dinner will provide attendees with an opportunity to connect and immerse themselves in the heritage of the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe. Attendees will also have the chance to visit the Tunica-Biloxi Cultural & Educational Resource Center, home to the “Tunica Treasure,” a repatriated collection of trade and funerary items.
Keynote speakers include Abigail Echo-Hawk, Executive Vice President at the Seattle Indian Health Board, and Chip Colwell, former Senior Curator of Anthropology at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science and a leading voice in the fight for repatriation. Breakfast and lunch will be provided each day, with dinner included during the cultural event. Native Nation officials and representatives are invited to attend free of charge, and regular registration is available for all others until registration closes on February 19, 2025. Limited exhibitor and vendor spaces are also available.
For more information on the agenda, sponsorship opportunities, and registration, visit Indian-Affairs.org/10thannualrepatriationconference.
The American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association (AIANTA) recognized the best of travel and cultural tourism across Native Nations and communities at its annual Excellence in Tourism Industry Awards. Awardees were announced on October 30, 2024, at the 26th Annual American Indigenous Tourism Conference held at the Paragon Casino Resort in Marksville, Louisiana.
“It’s an honor to recognize these Indigenous hospitality industry programs and professionals for all of their incredible achievements,” said Sherry L. Rupert, AIANTA, Chief Executive Officer. “Each honoree epitomizes how Indigenous cultural and heritage tourism programs can successfully attract visitors and grow economic development while celebrating their own heritage and culture, and we congratulate all the award recipients and nominees.”
Every year, AIANTA, the only national organization dedicated to advancing cultural tourism in Native Nations and communities across the United States, recognizes enterprises and individuals in four categories: Best Cultural Heritage Experience, Excellence in Customer Service,Industry Professional of the Year, and Indigenous Destination of the Year.
Best Cultural Heritage Experience was presented to the Choctaw Cultural Center. Located in Durant, Oklahoma, the Choctaw Cultural Center creates an unforgettable immersive experience from the moment guests drive through one of the largest intact Choctaw prairies on the reservation. Expert tour guides lead guests through exhibitions where they can interact with 14,000 years of Choctaw history and culture through one-of-a-kind life cast exhibits, featuring Choctaw tribal members populating the landscapes. Daily schedules offer guests the opportunity to watch social dancing and stickball demonstrations, with an invitation to participate and learn why these are critical to cultural sovereignty. The Choctaw Cultural Center also holds stickball clinics for children and adults that also integrates the Chahta anumpa (Choctaw language) and hosts tournaments on our competition field. During its first three years, the team has created engaging curriculum and immersive experiences for multiple generations through educational books and children’s magazines. It has established new classes, programs, workshops, events, and activities created around Choctaw Culture, traditions, and core values.
Excellence in Customer Service – Paragon Casino Resort. As a promise made when Paragon Casino Resort was first founded in 1994, it continues to keep guest satisfaction a top priority. Based in Marksville, Louisiana, the casino resort offers more than 30 tables including a High Limit Room, live poker and sports betting, and more than 1,000 slot machines featuring the latest in gaming technology. To accommodate the young ones, the property boasts a three-screen movie theater, three pools, a supervised play center, Kids Quest, and more. For outdoors lovers, Paragon offers an RV Resort and for the last 13 years it has received a perfect rating from Good Sam Club, an international organization of RV owners. Paragon Casino Resort also stays passionate about providing guests with a cultural experience as well, as it incorporates Native American education and the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe across its property.
The Industry Professional of the Year Award was given to Cheryl Trask, Senior Manager of Cultural Retail and Sales for Cherokee Nation Cultural Tourism. As senior manager of cultural retail and sales for Cherokee Nation Cultural Tourism, Cheryl has been a leader in Indian Country Tourism for more than 20 years. Her tourism career began in the resort industry where she helped build a successful sales program for a premier lake resort in Oklahoma before returning to her roots, her home and her tribe, Cherokee Nation. She joined Cherokee Nation 20 years ago as the tribe built its first casino resort in Catoosa, Oklahoma. In her role of sales manager, Cheryl helped introduce the motor coach and group sales program, which led to hundreds of thousands of guests experiencing Cherokee Nation’s culture infused casino, resort amenities and conference space. Eventually, her passion for Cherokee traditions and values transitioned her away from the casino resort and into a role with Cherokee Nation Cultural Tourism where she helped launch a cultural guided tour program. Her mastery of customer service training was instrumental in the development of Cherokee Nation’s tribal gift shops and its first wholly owned museum. Cherokee Nation now boasts seven museum sites each with their own unique chapter in the tribe’s history. In her two-decade tenure with Cherokee Nation, Cheryl has built programs and initiated the operation of more than 10 cultural retail and museum venues.
Indigenous Destination of the Year – Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort and Casino. Former Mescalero Apache Tribal Chairman Wendell Chino had a vision to develop a ski resort on the Mescalero Apache Tribal lands in the late 1950s. Chairman Chino was successful in his vision and “Apache Ski Resort” was developed in 1961. As a result, Inn of The Mountain Gods Resort and Casino was built in 2005 to help support the Mecca ecotourism and authentic cultural destination experience on the Mescalero Apache homelands. Zip lines travel to the property and are next to a beautiful lake that offers kayaking, swimming, hiking and fishing. The resort and casino are located next to the horse stables, a hunting lodge that supports some of the finest sustainable big game hunting in the world, RV park, cultural museum, and a world-renowned golf course. The destination hosts local authentic art, Indigenous storytelling and is filled with interpretive art, architecture, sculptures, and interpretive signs, making it a beautiful representation of the Mescalero Apache People.
AIANTA has delivered on its mission over the last 26 years to define, introduce, grow and sustain American Indian, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian tourism that honors traditions and values. Most notably, its successful legislative work that led to the Native American Tourism and Improving Visitor Experience Act (NATIVE Act) funding in 2018, as Indian Country Tourism was recognized through federal appropriations via NATIVE Act implementation.
AIANTA continues to address inequities in the tourism system and has served as the national voice for American Indian, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian nations engaged in cultural tourism, while providing technical assistance, training and capacity building to Native Nations and communities and Native-owned enterprises engaged in tourism, hospitality, and recreation.
Native Nations and communities who are looking to start or expand their cultural tourism footprint can find resources at www.aianta.org and visitors interested in learning more about Native culture can visit www.nativeamerica.travel.
About AIANTA For more than 25 years, the American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association (AIANTA) has served as the only national organization dedicated to advancing cultural heritage tourism in Native Nations and communities across the United States. Established by tribes for tribes to address inequities in the tourism system, AIANTA is a 501(c)(3) national nonprofit governed by an all-Native board of directors and serves as a united voice for the $15.7 billion Native hospitality sector. AIANTA’s successful legislative work led to the industry-changing Native American Tourism and Improving Visitor Experience Act (NATIVE Act) funding in 2018, as Indian Country Tourism was recognized through federal appropriations via NATIVE Act implementation. AIANTA’s mission is to define, introduce, grow, and sustain American Indian, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian (AIANNH) tourism that honors traditions and values while helping AIANNH businesses become market/export ready for domestic and international markets. Visit www.aianta.org to learn more.
Baton Rouge, LA — The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana has been awarded a $492,490 grant from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) through the first-ever Tribal Cybersecurity Grant Program (TCGP). This grant will have a profound impact on the tribe’s cybersecurity, enhancing its infrastructure and making it more resilient to the growing digital threats that Tribal Nations face.
This significant investment is part of a larger $18.2 million allocation by DHS to support Tribal Nations across the United States in managing and reducing systemic cyber risks and threats. The TCGP was established to address the unique cybersecurity challenges faced by Tribal Nations, who have long been under-resourced in this critical area. The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe is one of over 30 grant recipients, marking the largest number of awards ever provided by DHS to Tribal Nations in a single program.
“The Governor’s Office is thrilled to see the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe leading the way in cybersecurity advancements. This grant is a testament to the strength and resilience of Tribal Nations, and it underscores our commitment to empowering Indigenous communities with the tools they need to protect their digital users. By investing in cutting-edge cybersecurity infrastructure, we are not only safeguarding today’s assets but also paving the way for a secure and prosperous future. Together, we are building a foundation that honors tradition while embracing innovation,” said Chandler, Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Indian Affairs.
The funding will establish governance frameworks, identify critical vulnerabilities, and develop a 21st-century cyber workforce within the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe. This will address immediate cybersecurity needs and reinforce the tribe’s infrastructure to support long-term sovereignty and resilience.
“Receiving this Tribal Cybersecurity Grant is a significant milestone for our Tunica-Biloxi community. Grants like these are crucial as they help us protect our digital infrastructure and keep our people, culture, and heritage secure in today’s connected world. This support not only ensures our current safety but also strengthens our future, creating a solid foundation for generations to come,” said Tunica-Biloxi Tribe Chairman Marshall Pierite.
The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe is proud to receive this historic grant, which represents a vital step forward in protecting the tribe’s digital assets and ensuring the safety and security of its members in an increasingly complex digital landscape.
For more information on the Tribal Cybersecurity Grant Program and the full list of awardees, visit: DHS Grant
