Category: News

Tunica-Biloxi Students Celebrate “Ashuhki Hali” with Tree Planting, Educational Games

Posted on by Katie Bourque

The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe and Proctor & Gamble Company presented this year’s Earth Day Celebration,

Tree Planting Ceremony and educational art projects

In honor of Earth Day, Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana’s Education Department and Proctor and Gamble presented a day full of activities, learning opportunities and community initiatives. Tunica-Biloxi students began the day with recycled art projects and an introduction to agriculture, presented by the Tunica-Biloxi Agriculture Department. The day wrapped up outdoors, with a kite-flying activity and ceremonial tree planting.

The trees were planted by Tunica-Biloxi Youth representatives, Tribal Council members and representatives from Proctor and Gamble. The ceremony included remarks by the Director of the Tunica-Biloxi Education Department, John Barbry, regarding the Tribe’s commitment to honoring Mother Earth and their commitment to bettering the community, in partnership with Proctor and Gamble.


“Thanks to the dedication of the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana and Proctor and Gamble, our community sees a brighter shade of green today,” said Tunica-Biloxi Director of Programming Development and John Barbry. “Our pledge to respect our heritage and safeguard our legacy underscores our duty to nurture the land that sustained our ancestors for ages, ensuring its vitality for generations to come.” Mr. Barbry also announced a partnership with the Louisiana National Guard to service plastic recycling bins that will be placed throughout the Tunica-Biloxi reservation.

The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe’s commitment to “Hali,” or Earth, extends well beyond Earth Day. The Tunica-Biloxi tribe has cared for their ancestral lands for centuries and does so with pride and care. The Tribe recently introduced Tahch’i Farms, to propel food sovereignty, farming and educational initiatives forward for the next generation of students. The Tunica-Biloxi agriculture team plans to construct a greenhouse, barn and community garden to further their mission of preparing the next generation for success. Tahch’i Farms regularly hosts food giveaways for tribal citizens and their families in Marksville.

“As stewards of our land and our destiny, we choose to honor our sacred duty to safeguard Mother Earth for future generations,” said Tunica-Biloxi Chairman Marshall Pierite. “We share this covenant with our ancestors – their dedication carries us here, and now we plant the seeds of tradition to chart a new course and a vibrant, sustainable future for all.”

Registration Now Open for the 26th Annual American Indigenous Tourism Conference

Posted on by Katie Bourque

AITC, scheduled for October 28-31, 2024, at Paragon Casino Resort, is organized by the American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association and will be held on the tribal homelands of the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana in Marksville, Louisiana

To register and learn more about AITC, visit www.aianta.org/aitc.

Registration is now open for the 26th Annual American Indigenous Tourism Conference (AITC), which will be held on the tribal homelands of the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana, October 28-31, 2024, at Paragon Casino Resort in Marksville, Louisiana and organized by the American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association (AIANTA).

This marks the first year as the newly renamed American Indigenous Tourism Conference. The name change was unveiled at the 25th Annual AITC in October 2023 to reflect inclusivity of all U.S. Indigenous people. AIANTA, the only national organization dedicated to advancing cultural tourism in Native Nations and communities across the United States, will celebrate 26 years at AITC this year as the leader in Indigenous tourism. Each year, the AITC attracts more than 300 attendees who participate for second-to-none networking opportunities, high-level keynote sessions and informative breakout sessions led by some of the hospitality industry’s leading experts.

American Indigenous Tourism Conference

Date: October 28-31, 2024

Location: Paragon Casino Resort

711 Paragon Place

Marksville, LA 71351

The theme of this year’s American Indigenous Tourism Conference (AITC), “Cultural Tourism: Changing the Narrative”, underscores the transformative journey of native nations and communities in reshaping the narrative that has long been shaped by external forces. The narrative, once crafted and disseminated by others, is now being reclaimed and redefined by Indigenous voices themselves. This paradigm shift signifies a departure from the outdated notion of representation without participation; instead, it heralds a new era of collaboration and ownership, where Indigenous perspectives, rooted in centuries-old traditions and wisdom, take center stage.

“It is a pivotal moment for Indigenous peoples as they assert their agency, share their stories authentically, and showcase their rich cultural heritage,” said AIANTA CEO Sherry L. Rupert. “In essence, this year’s AITC theme marks a resounding call for recognition, respect, and empowerment—a testament to the resilience and vitality of Indigenous communities. AIANTA is proud to partner with our AITC host the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana to bring best-in-class education, training and networking opportunities, as American Indian, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian-owned hospitality businesses continue to contribute to the growing tourism and hospitality sector in the U.S.,” said Rupert.

This year’s AITC will take place at Paragon Casino Resort in Marksville, Louisiana, which since opening its doors in 1994 has become one of the top gaming destinations in Louisiana. The property features an impressive lineup of amenities and attractions, including more than 1,000 slot machines and 30 tables, including live poker and sports betting; three hotel towers with more than 500 well-appointed rooms and suites; full-service spa and salon; Topgolf Swing Suite game simulators; 18-hole championship golf course with a pro shop and restaurant; indoor tropical pool & two outdoor pools; a bayou-themed atrium featuring a live alligator habitat; a three-screen movie theater; several bars & restaurants, including a steakhouse and a buffet; full-service RV resort & cabins; Cyber Quest arcade & Kids Quest supervised play center; and over 75,000 square feet of meeting space, including an expansive showroom for concerts and conventions.

“The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe is very proud of what Paragon Casino Resort can offer visitors. We are excited to extend a warm welcome to all attendees of the American Indigenous Tourism Conference, inviting them to experience our home and immerse themselves in our rich culture,” said Tunica-Biloxi Chairman Marshall Pierite. “We strive to bring progress and opportunities to our Native American brothers and sisters. We are honored to work with AIANTA to move that mission forward and succeed in our common quest of enriching the lives of all Indigenous people.”

Mobile workshops are an AITC tradition as AIANTA partners with the local host Tribe to showcase Native tourism experiences around the conference host site. On Monday, October 28, discover the natural wonders of Central Louisiana with Tunica-Biloxi Tribal Citizens on their Spring Bayou Boat and Sightseeing Tour before indulging in Cajun country’s finest culinary delights, including the renowned “cochon de lait” (pig roast) and a savory shrimp boil. A second mobile workshop invites guests to an enriching journey through the “Tunica Treasure” exhibit at the Tunica-Biloxi Cultural and Educational Resources Center to discover a vast collection of Native American European trade items and artifacts deposited as grave goods by the Tunica between 1731 and 1764, and more.

A favorite AITC event, the Excellence in Tourism Industry Awards Gala, will honor the best and brightest across Indigenous tourism including Indigenous Destination of the Year, Best Cultural Heritage Experience, Excellence in Customer Service, and Industry Professional Award. This event is accompanied by dinner and a silent auction on Wednesday, October 30. The auction raises funds for AIANTA’s tourism and hospitality scholarship program.

Conference registration begins at $525 for AIANTA members who register by the early bird deadline (June 30, 2024). A select number of exhibitor spaces are available at $800 per booth for members and $1,000 for non-members. As with previous years, the conference will also feature a Business of Art Seminar and Native Art Market, and artisans are encouraged to register for a table. AITC attendees who register by early bird deadline of June 30 will be entered into a drawing for one overnight stay at the Paragon Casino Resort during the 26th Annual AITC, where two winners will be chosen. To register and learn more about AITC, visit www.aianta.org/aitc.

For more than 25 years, AIANTA has worked 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.

About The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe & Paragon Casino Resort
The Tunica-Biloxi people first appeared in the Mississippi Valley. In the late 1700s, they settled near south of Marksville in east-central Louisiana. Today, the Tribe has more than 1,800 members throughout the United States, primarily in Louisiana, Texas, and Illinois. The modern Tunica-Biloxi Tribe is composed of Tunica, Biloxi (a Siouan-speaking people from the Gulf coast), Ofo (also a Siouan people), Avoyel (a Natchezan people), and Choctaw. Although ancestry is typically intermixed through marriages, tribal members typically identify either as Tunica, Biloxi or Biloxi-Choctaw. The tribe owns and operates the Paragon Casino Resort, a premier casino resort destination and one of the largest employers in Central Louisiana. Paragon features slots, table games, sports betting, 500+ rooms/suites, dining options (steakhouse, buffet), 18-hole golf course, spa/salon, movie theater, childcare, pools/fitness center, RV park, and more. For more information about Paragon Casino Resort, visit www.paragoncasinoresort.com. For more information about the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana, visit www.tunicabiloxi.org. 

Tunica-Biloxi Tribe Elects Vice-Chairman; Tribal Council Members

Posted on by Katie Bourque

The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana has announced the re-election of Vice-Chairman Marshall Ray Sampson, Sr., and Council Member-At-Large James Craig III, plus newly-elected Dr. Julie Zahn as a Tribal Council Member-At-Large in an election held last week.

Tunica-Biloxi Tribal elections are held every two years and elected officials on the Tribal Council serve four-year terms. Tunica-Biloxi Chairman Marshall Pierite expressed his gratitude to past and newly-elected Council Members: “Last weekend’s election illustrates the ever-changing nature of government. As we bid farewell to Council Member Harold Pierite, we welcome the fresh perspective of Dr. Julie Zahn. In every transition, we recognize that as one chapter closes, new pathways emerge, offering avenues for growth and advancement. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to all the candidates for their courage to run, and I eagerly anticipate the remarkable achievements awaiting us in the future.”

“I am blessed to continue to serve the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana and our Tribal citizens who reside across the country,” said Tunica-Biloxi Vice-Chairman Marshall Ray Sampson, Sr. “Our citizens have placed great trust in me, and I look forward to continue working in tandem with Chairman Pierite and all Tribal leadership toward our collective goals.”

Marshall Ray Sampson, Sr. has served on the Tribal Council as a Council Member-at-Large since the spring of 1997 and most recently, as Vice-Chairman. Over the years he has worked on budgeting, educational development, political development and community development and has experience in marketing, operations, budgeting, employee training, business development, community relations and expense control. Sampson has more than 27 years of experience in Tribal government operations, gaming operations, information systems, marketing and hospitality administration. An employee of the Paragon Casino Resort since 1995, Sampson now holds the position of General Manager.

“I am thankful that the Tunica-Biloxi citizens have chosen me to serve on their Tribal Council once again. We have plenty of work ahead of us, but I see a bright future in store of the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana,” said Tribal Council Member-At-Large James Craig, III.

James Craig III, Tribal Councilman of the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana, exemplifies profound dedication to tribal heritage and national service. Born and raised in Chicago, a city rich with his tribe’s traditions, Craig has become a pivotal figure in cultural preservation and community service. His election on April 5, 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, marked the commencement of a leadership tenure characterized by resilience and a deep understanding of tribal sovereignty. He actively contributes to the Tunica-Biloxi Gaming Authority Board, the Tribal Gaming Protection Network Board of Directors, and the Administration for Children & Families Tribal Advisory Committee, vigorously upholding the tribe’s principle of “Cherishing our past and building for our future.”

Craig’s distinguished military career spans 21 years, beginning with his enlistment on January 8, 2003. After undergoing rigorous training at Ft. Benning, GA, he was stationed at Schofield Barracks, HI. His service in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom earned him the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, highlighting his valor and dedication. Following his active duty, which concluded in June 2009, Craig continued his service with the Air Force Reserves and the Illinois Army National Guard, focusing on security operations and intelligence analysis. Beyond his military career, he has applied his leadership skills at prominent companies such as Bank of America, MB Financial, Fifth Third Bank, and Harley Davidson. His extensive travels across more than twenty countries and attainment of over forty certifications in both military and tribal governance underscore his commitment to lifelong learning and leadership. Residing in Marksville, LA, on the Tunica-Biloxi Indian Reservation, Craig’s leadership and experiences continue to drive significant initiatives for reclaiming ancestral territories and strengthening the tribe’s future foundations.

Tribal Council Member-At-Large Julie Zahn added, “Although I am the newest member of the Tribal Council, I intend to leave a lasting legacy of success for this council and for generations to come. I am excited to see how we excel, together.”

Dr. Julie Zahn is the Education Program Counselor for the Tunica-Biloxi Education Department at the Houston, Texas, branch office. She previously worked as a teacher, coordinator, and interventionist. Zahn completed her doctorate in Curriculum & Instruction/Special Education and researched the educational system in underserved Native American communities. In addition to her doctorate, Zahn holds an Educational Specialist Degree, a Master of Education Degree, a Bachelor of Science Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies, and an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Human Services with a certificate in Basic Chemical Dependency. In addition, she has completed a graduate-level Dyslexia program. She recently earned her Board Certification in Special Education and Certification as a Community Health Worker.

During her studies, Zahn completed a counseling internship at one of Texas’s largest substance-use treatment centers for women. She has volunteered at several agencies that help women and children who are victims of domestic violence.

For more information on the Tribal Council, click here.

Paragon Casino Resort and Tunica-Biloxi Tribe to Host Free Public Health & Wellness Expo

Posted on by Katie Bourque

Paragon Casino Resort and the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana are eager to combine their annual health fairs into one, big Health & Wellness Expo for all members of the public to take part in.

All ages are welcome to the free Health & Wellness Expo to receive health screenings, learn more about community resources and the latest healthcare trends and get active with various fitness stations. The expo will also have plenty of activities for kids, food and drinks, speakers and door prizes. Those who donate canned or dry food goods will receive one extra door prize drawing ticket. All proceeds will support the Food Bank of Central Louisiana.

Vendors interested in having a FREE booth have until May 1 to apply by calling Jamie Williams at (318) 402-9032 or emailing jwilliams@paragoncasinoresort.com.

Saturday, May 4, 2024

10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Paragon Casino Resort – Mári Showroom

711 Paragon Place

Marksville, LA 71351

TUNICA-BILOXI CHAIRMAN MARSHALL PIERITE NAMED VICE-CHAIR OF FCC INTERGOVERNMENTAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Posted on by Katie Bourque

The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana proudly announces Chairman Marshall Pierite has been named vice-chairman of the Intergovernmental Advisory Committee (IAC) under the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel announced the Committee on Monday, emphasizing the importance of the advisory panel as it provides guidance, expertise and recommendations to the FCC on telecommunications issues affecting local, county, state and Tribal governments. Chairman Pierite will serve on the IAC alongside other elected officials of municipal, county, state and Tribal governments.

“My greatest passion is and always has been boosting Tribal communities in every possible way,” said Tunica-Biloxi Chairman Marshall Pierite. “I am proud to serve as vice-chair on the Intergovernmental Advisory Committee and hopefully bring to light and find solutions to an array of broadband, connectivity and other telecommunication problems the Native American and historically rural communities face.”

“These local, county, state, and Tribal leaders offer the commission valuable perspectives on how we can work together to connect the American people,” Rosenworcel said in a news release. “I thank the Committee members for their willingness to serve, and I look forward to their input.”

The FCC recently announced the reauthorization of the IAC and sought nominations for membership to the committee, which will operate for two years. It is an official advisory committee made up of members appointed by Rosenworcel who, together as a body, make recommendations to the FCC on issues related to increasing deployment and adoption of broadband services and any other task necessary to help local, state, and Tribal government officials clarify or explain FCC rules and policies to their constituents and other members of the public.

The IAC will welcome 30 new and returning members, including Michigan Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II who will lead the IAC A list of all the members can be found in the FCC’s official public notice.

The first IAC meeting will be held on April 18, 2024.

Avoyelles Arts & Music Festival Headed to Paragon Casino Resort!

Posted on by Katie Bourque

The Arts Council of Avoyelles is joining forces with the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana and Paragon Casino Resort to bring the 12th annual Avoyelles Arts & Music Festival to the Paragon Casino Resort. A bold, new experience awaits festival goers at Louisiana’s July 4th destination!

“Paragon has served this community for 30 years and our involvement in the parish has been our most valued mission,” says Paragon Casino Resort General Manager Marshall Ray Sampson, Sr. “I can’t think of a better way to show our love and appreciation than to lend our grounds to host the largest and most anticipated festival of the year.”

This exciting move will include entertainment in the cool, air-conditioned Mari Showroom, arts and crafts in the grand hall and, as always, plenty of kid-friendly activities.

“The heart of the festival remains the same,” explains Allison Augustine, President of the Avoyelles Arts Council. “Our goal is to highlight art and music in our region while bringing the community together to celebrate our nation’s birthday,” she added.

The Avoyelles Arts & Music Festival combines everything you know and love about the Fourth of July, from the longest-running July 4th parade in the state, live music from Louisiana musicians, festival queens, food booths, a car show, a dazzling fireworks display and more!

The festival brings over 3,000 visitors to Marksville every year. “The Avoyelles Arts & Music Festival is a wonderful opportunity for visitors to experience the hospitality and culture that Avoyelles has to offer,” says Wilbert Carmouche, Executive Director of the Avoyelles Tourism Commission.

The festival is Thursday, July 4, beginning with a parade through Marksville at 10:00 a.m. and opening ceremonies at Paragon Casino Resort following immediately after.

For more details and information on becoming a sponsor or vendor, please visit www.avoyellesarts.com/avoyellesartsandmusicfestival.

Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana Announces Return of 26th Annual Pow Wow

Posted on by Katie Bourque

The public is encouraged to participate in traditional arts, storytelling, music and dance competitions.

The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana will host its 26th Annual Pow Wow on May 18 and 19, 2024, following a successful grand return in 2023 after the COVID-19 pandemic canceled the celebration in previous years. The annual public event, held on the Tunica-Biloxi Reservation in Marksville, welcomes various regional indigenous tribes to celebrate culture through vibrant craft displays, music performances, dance presentations and cultural exhibits. An assortment of interactive events and live performances throughout the weekend aim to highlight the history and traditions of the Tribe. Not only does this historic, cultural event celebrate the traditions of the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe, but neighboring tribes from across the region, who are invited to share their own culture and heritage alongside Tunica-Biloxi citizens.  

This year’s Pow Wow is also a celebration of continuous advancements by the Tribe. Just this past year, the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe had great opportunities, including hosting U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, the first Native American to serve as a cabinet secretary, to its reservation. The Tribe was also awarded a $6.4 million grant to provide new, affordable housing for tribal families. Additionally, members of Tribal leadership were selected to serve on numerous federally appointed boards and committees with the hopes of amplifying the Tunica-Biloxi mission and the goals of Indian Country nationwide.

“Last year’s return of the Pow Wow was such an overarching success that we anticipate this year’s 26th annual Pow Wow to be bigger and better,” said Tunica-Biloxi Chairman Marshall Pierite. “We are eager to celebrate our accomplishments, not only for the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe, but for Indian Country as a whole. The success of one tribe is the success of all tribes to leave our mark in history and continue to pass down our culture and traditions.”

Featured performances and events include The Grayhawk Band, the Tunica-Biloxi Singers and Legend Keepers along with Native American dance and drum (singing) contests. Dancers can pre-register by Wednesday, May 15, 2024 by filling our the pre-registration form here. The Pow Wow features over 35 food and craft vendors. Vendors can contact Paulette Voiselle (pvoiselle@tunica.org) or Emelie Barbry (emelie.barbry@tunica.org) for more information.

Additionally, the Tribe will hold a free Education Day on Friday, May 17, ahead of the Pow Wow. The event is a free day of programming dedicated to educating students of all ages on Native American culture, and highlights the historical, social and symbolic significance of inter-tribal Pow Wows. There will be two (2) programs, approximately 75 minutes in length, scheduled for 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 17, 2024. The Ottertrail Singers from Apache, Oklahoma, will accompany dance exhibitions during the programs, and attendees are encouraged to participate in inter-tribal dances, including Round Dance and Two-step. For more information, contact Elisabeth Pierite-Mora at (319) 240-6432. School groups may want to include a visit to the Tunica-Biloxi Museum as part of their outing. Call Melissa Barbin for museum group reservations at (800) 272-9767, ext. 5457.

Paragon Casino Resort is the host hotel for the Pow Wow celebration. Reservations are welcome by direct phone call to our special group reservations number, (800) 642-7777. Those looking to book reservations can use our special Pow Wow hotel rate code—POM16GR.

General Admission for the 2024 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 drum and dancers will be admitted with assigned numbers.

26th Annual Tunica-Biloxi Pow Wow Education Day Returns to Inspire Students of All Ages 

Posted on by Katie Bourque

After last year’s successful event, Tribe encourages public to participate in this free, educational event held before the annual Pow Wow. 

The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana will host a free Education Day on Friday, May 17, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. This annual public event, held on the Tunica-Biloxi Reservation in Marksville, is a free day of programming dedicated to educating students of all ages on Native American culture, and highlights the historical, social and symbolic significance of inter-tribal Pow Wows. 

The 2024 Tunica-Biloxi Pow Wow Education Day will consist of Pow Wow dance demonstrations, Tunica-Biloxi Storytelling, arts and crafts vendors and displays, flute music and interactive traditional home. The Ottertrail Singers from Apache, Oklahoma, will accompany dance exhibitions during the programs, and attendees are encouraged to participate in inter-tribal dances, including Round Dance and Two-step. 

“The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana has developed such robust educational programming over the last several decades,” said Tunica-Biloxi Chairman Marshall Pierite. “This is an opportunity to share our rich history and traditions with students of all ages so they may come to understand our tribe in a deeper way, and I encourage all who can to participate in this invaluable experience.” 

Students of all ages and backgrounds are welcome, and group reservations are encouraged. There will be two (2) programs, approximately 75 minutes in length, scheduled for 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 17, 2024. For reservations, contact Elisabeth Pierite at (318) 240-6432 or emora@tunica.org. 

Groups interested in scheduling a tour of the Tunica-Biloxi Museum at the Tunica-Biloxi Cultural & Educational Resources Center may contact Melissa Barbin at (800) 272-9767, ext. 6421, or mbarbin@tunica.org.   

TUNICA-BILOXI TRIBE WELCOMES U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR SECRETARY DEB HAALAND

Posted on by Katie Bourque

Secretary Haaland applauded Tribe’s work on behalf of its members and Central Louisiana as she wrapped up tour of federally recognized Louisiana Tribes

Click HERE for photos

Marksville, LA – (January 17, 2024) – The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana welcomed U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, the first Native American to serve as a cabinet secretary, to its reservation for a meeting, tour, and lunch at tribal-owned Paragon Casino Resort’s Legends Steak House. During the visit, Chairman and CEO of the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe, Marshall Pierite hosted the Secretary on a tour through the reservation. Highlights of the tour included a visit to the Tunica Treasure Museum; a tour of the library where the tribe’s partnership with Tulane University was on display through Tunica language immersion workshops; and a visit to key reservation departments like housing development, the Tribe’s police department, and a new organic farm site, Tahch’i Farm.

The tour also stopped at an area of the reservation that has been cleared to build 19 new permanent homes, which was made possible by a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) grant. The $6.4 million grant was awarded to support the Tribe’s priority of creating safe, reliable, and secure housing opportunities for tribal members. The HUD grant has been transformational for tribal members and underscores the Tribe’s ongoing commitment to work with the Biden Administration to create opportunities for all of Central Louisiana.

Another focus of Sec. Haaland’s visit was a stop at the Halimushali ancient burial mounds. The land is a site of important cultural significance, and its ownership was transferred back to the Tribe by the City of Marksville in 2022. This transfer was the byproduct of decades of work between the Tribe and multiple generations of state leadership, marking the first time the land had been in Tribal possession since the early 1800s. Work is currently underway to restore and improve the site and, during the visit, Chairman Pierite stressed the need for additional federal funding to help bolster the work currently underway.

Secretary Haaland spoke about the Biden-Harris Administration’s recent investments in Indian Country through the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act and the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The two laws are the largest-ever federal investment in Indian country.

“It was an honor to host Secretary Haaland and thank her in person for the historic investments the Biden Administration has made in Indian country that have benefitted Indian country and the communities in which we live,” said Marshall Pierite, Chairman of the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe. “Tunica-Biloxi has been bringing opportunity to central Louisiana and with the additional resources we will continue to grow and thrive for years to come.”

Paragon Casino Resort Unveils New Bald Eagle Statue with Symbolic Meaning for Tunica-Biloxi Tribe

Posted on by Katie Bourque

The statue will feature water and fire displays to welcome guests in its 30th year

Paragon Casino Resort is proud to unveil its most recent upgrade – a brand new bald eagle sculpture to greet and dazzle visitors when they enter the Casino Resort’s main entrance.

The eagle statue is 13 feet tall and is mounted on top of a 10-foot-tall structure, which is comprised of 23,000 pounds of boulders. The elaborate sculpture will feature live fire and waterfalls. The entire piece is constructed with high-density foam and covered in a durable fiberglass material, ensuring the statue will be resilient and steadfast – much like its inspiration.

Staying true to its mission to boost Central Louisiana residents and businesses, Paragon has commissioned GibKo Nursery in Bunkie, Louisiana for the sculpture’s design and execution.

“We are always seeking to improve and upgrade Paragon Casino Resort to be the absolute best we can be for our guests,” said Paragon Casino Resort General Manager Marshall Ray Sampson, Sr. “Having this sculpture completed not only enhances the property for visitors but allows us to spotlight a local business’s expansive talent.”

The new sculpture is part of a property-wide renovation which will be completed in early 2024, and includes upgrades to 190 guest rooms, 24 suites and several common areas around the property.

As Paragon Casino Resort approaches its 30th anniversary this summer, Casino Resort management has called on its roots to bring the past into the present. The bald eagle is significant to the Tunica Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana, which owns and operates Paragon Casino Resort. The eagle is the primary feature in the tribe’s logo and represents the story of Eagle and The Sun.

According to Tunica-Biloxi, the eagle is a messenger of the tribe’s prayers to the sun, their Creator. The waterfall display of the sculpture represents the mighty Mississippi River, which historically connected the Tunica, Biloxi, Ofo, Avoyel and Choctaw people to tribes as far north as Minnesota and even into Canada. The Mississippi River was a major trade route for tribes and played a tangible role in the expansion of the United States. The live fire feature of the sculpture also has symbolic meaning for the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe. In Tunica-Biloxi stories, fire possessed the power to shapeshift into men, women and animals.

“This grand sculpture represents three powerful symbols for our tribe: fire, water and the great bald eagle,” said Tunica-Biloxi Chairman Marshall Pierite. “This display is now a testament of Tunica-Biloxi’s and Paragon’s efforts to keep relevant the history of our tribe and pass down the culture for generations of tribal members to come.”

The new bald eagle sculpture is now on display in the main driveway of Paragon Casino Resort. Paragon and the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe encourage all visitors to stop by and enjoy the live visual performance and learn more about the symbolism of Tunica-Biloxi’s heritage.