A Place Called Poarch

Join us in this episode as Gregory McGhee sits down with us to delve into the intricacies of powwow etiquette and traditions. Greg shares his journey from a small town in Atmore, Alabama, to embracing his Native American heritage and participating in powwows. We discuss the significance of powwows as cultural gatherings, emphasizing the importance of respect for dancers, regalia, and traditions. The conversation explores the roles of emcees, arena directors, and head dancers, shedding light on the intense competitions and drum contests. The episode not only educates listeners about powwow customs but also highlights the importance of fellowship and respect within the powwow community![1:17] - Gregory shares some background information about himself.[3:33] - After attending an all-Indian university, Greg developed a deep appreciation for the community and traditions.[6:16] - Greg continues to learn from powwows even though he's been to many.[7:59] - What is a powwow?[10:36] - Last year's 50th powwow marked a significant milestone, showcasing growth and community spirit.[12:18] - Greg emphasizes the importance of showing respect at powwows.[14:16] - Hear why Greg prefers the word “regalia” over “costume.”[17:11] - When in doubt, ask for permission respectfully; inquire about cultural aspects.[18:53] - Greg reiterates that respect and reverence are vital at powwows, especially during moments like eagle feather drops.[19:54] - Eagle whistles symbolize honor, granted for passion, with significant responsibilities.[21:03] - Greg adds that being whistled with an eagle signifies profound respect and fulfillment.[23:38] - What does the eagle whistle sound like?[25:49] - What are the responsibilities of an emcee?[28:48] - Greg explains the role of the arena director.[29:49] - What is the grand entry?[30:47] - The eagle symbolizes unity and strength in Native American culture.[33:24] - Greg discusses how flag songs unite tribes, honoring ancestors and preserving cultural legacies.[35:38] - The emcee guides the audience during the grand entry, emphasizing respect and participation.[37:17] - The arena area is reserved for dancers and families, with spectators using designated seating like bleachers.[39:28] - Learn about intertribal dances.[42:38] - Greg explains that the head man and head lady serve as lead dancers.[45:54] - Dance and drum contests at powwows can be incredibly intense and anxiety-inducing.[48:41] - Experienced judges select diverse dancers, ensuring fairness and competition integrity.[50:08] - Dancers are evaluated based on symmetry, rhythm, and movement consistency.[52:37] - The drum contest is an especially exciting aspect of the powwow.[54:49] - Drum contests involve distinct northern and southern styles.[57:48] - Drum contests' formats vary at different powwows, leading to intense judging and competition.[1:00:03] - Greg emphasizes that maintaining focus, especially during dance leads, is crucial.[1:02:58] - Greg has learned that a lot of vendors are willing to barter and/or trade.

In this episode of our Native American Heritage Month series, we are so happy to welcome Alex Alvarez, an educator, artist, and seasoned powwow enthusiast. Alex shares his lifelong journey into the powwow tradition, tracing his roots back to his Creek heritage. Powwows, he explains, have been his sanctuary, a place of belonging and celebration of Native American culture. He describes the evolution of powwow drum contests, from modest prizes a decade ago to today's highly competitive events offering substantial cash rewards, and he emphasizes the importance of respect and tradition in powwows, from the structured patterns of drumming to the significance of tobacco offerings and the sacredness of the drum. Through insightful anecdotes and wisdom, Alex sheds light on the intricacies of powwow culture, revealing the heartwarming mentorship and mutual respect that keep this ancient tradition alive and thriving.[0:41] - Learn a little bit about Alex.[1:47] - What does Alex do for a living?[3:46] - Powwows embody evolving Native American culture, uniting diverse groups in celebration and adaptability.[4:56] - Hear about Alex's The Boys drum group which showcases evolving powwow styles.[8:21] - Alex breaks down the difference between southern style and northern style drumming.[11:28] - Traditional dances like chicken and grass emerged in the 1990s, diversifying powwow styles.[14:22] - Alex reveals who was in his group.[16:13] - Alex reflects on memorable moments from powwows in the early 2000s, including brainstorming amusing group names.[18:05] - Learn how the name "Medicine Tail,” inspired by a dream, was born, symbolizing cultural exploration beyond the reservation.[21:28] - Powwow songs follow a structured pattern, incorporating soloist leads, verse body, and breaks.[23:22] - Alex asserts that drums are the heartbeat of a powwow.[26:05] - Powwow singing expands to word songs, featuring diverse languages like Lakota, Cree, and Anishinaabe, showcasing cultural richness and creativity.[27:09] - Alex points out how important tempo is in powwow singing.[27:59] - Alex finds writing songs in Greek to be very difficult.[30:02] - Certain powwow groups incorporate women, not as drummers but as harmonizers.[33:59] - Alex argues that the cleanliness of the space is crucial in drum contests.[36:25] - Coordinating the Southern dance competition at the 2020 Gathering of Nations involved over 100 judges, requiring careful management.[37:39] - Being a head judge is a sacrifice, as it takes a lot of time away from family.[39:28] - Alex asserts that the role of a drum keeper demands adherence to strict rules and deep respect.[41:36] - Gratitude for drum groups is expressed through gestures like handshakes, photos, and placing offerings on drums.[44:13] - Learn about how offering tobacco to drum groups symbolizes respect and is a cherished tradition.[46:00] - What is the responsibility of the drum group?[48:31] - Learning to drum often begins young, passed through families or self-taught using recordings and online resources.[52:09] - Alex adds that nurturing youth drum groups ensures the vibrant future of the powwow tradition.[55:33] - In powwows, drummers share music, advice, and knowledge, fostering a supportive tradition.

Join us today as we sit down with Mindy Jackson to delve into the fascinating world of the Princess Contest in the Poarch Creek Indian community. Mindy, a former participant herself, shares her insights on the evolution of the contest, shedding light on the rigorous preparations contestants undergo. From intricate traditional arts like patchwork and beadwork to mastering the Muskogee language, these young ambassadors dedicate themselves to representing their tribe. Mindy emphasizes the importance of family support and the cultural department's pivotal role in shaping these young leaders. Contrary to misconceptions, the Princess Contest isn't just a beauty pageant; it's a platform for preserving tribal heritage, fostering pride, and instilling a deep sense of cultural identity. Join us as we uncover the rich tapestry of tradition, talent, and tenacity that defines the Princess Contest in the Poarch Creek Indian community![0:38] - Mindy shares a little bit of background information about herself.[2:08] - What are the requirements for running for the Princess Contest?[2:53] - Mindy explains how one goes about applying for the contest.[5:08] - Traditional attire is dress, ribbons, apron, shawl, accessories, and moccasins.[5:56] - How are judges chosen?[8:36] - Contestants acquire valuable knowledge, including history, art, and Muskogee language.[10:42] - Mindy shares that contestants often connect and form deep bonds.[11:37] - What do the winners of the contest win?[12:55] - Mindy reflects on the purpose and importance of the competition.[14:27] - Ambassadors travel to powwows, representing their tribe, attending meetings, and promoting cultural heritage.[15:58] - Ambassadors network and build relationships.[16:18] - What are ambassadors expected to do the day of the contest?[17:27] - It is emphasized that the competition is not just a beauty contest.[19:45] - All aspects of attire are handmade.[21:33] - The culture department educates princesses on history, language, art, and traditional skills.[24:05] - Princesses uphold dignity, serve as role models, and represent the tribe.[27:48] - This tradition did not start until 1970, so it's still relatively new.

Join us today as we sit down with Ding Ding, the planning and events coordinator for the tribe. We discuss the intricacies of planning the Poarch Creek powwow, shedding light on the behind-the-scenes efforts that make this event one of the largest powwows in the southeastern United States. Ding Ding also shares insights into the historical significance of the powwow, emphasizing its deep sentimental value and cultural importance to the Poarch Creek tribe. The conversation delves into the meticulous planning involved, from selecting head staff and organizing drawings to accommodating vendors and spectators. We also highlight the involvement of local churches, the challenges faced in preserving traditions, and the importance of intertribal relationships.[0:23] - Today's guest is Ding Ding![1:07] - Ding Ding shares some background information about himself.[2:49] - Learn how the powwow holds deep sentimental value for Ding Ding.[4:15] - Preparations for the power event are meticulous, involving selecting staff and attracting participants with substantial prizes.[5:23] - What does Ding Ding look for in selecting head staff?[6:26] - Ding Ding feels that emcees don't get enough credit for all the hard work that they do.[7:14] - November marks the rough start of event preparations, including ground setup, vendor spaces, and weather concerns.[8:04] - Hear about the process of building the new arena.[10:22] - The powwow dance area grew from a small spot behind the school to a large pavilion.[12:29] - The powwow upholds fairness, honoring effort and dedication regardless of participant numbers.[14:31] - Ding Ding discusses his support staff.[16:49] - Ding Ding talks about the importance of the police department maintaining order and the police department ensuring safety.[18:35] - Churches, while vital initially, face challenges but still support community events.[21:00] - Preserving traditions relies on youth motivation to ensure cultural continuity.[23:56] - Hear about how Houston and John Arthur McGee initiated the barbecue tradition, now carried by their grandsons.[26:20] - Ding Ding is expecting a lot of visitors this year.[26:39] - How does one go about setting up a booth?[29:39] - Ding Ding encourages us to visit the stall dance, experience Greek culture, and enjoy food and fun.[31:37] - What accommodations will there be for people with disabilities?[33:15] - Ding Ding offers some closing comments.

Today, we're continuing our conversation about the Consolidated School. James and Benjamin Colbert join us to discuss their time attending various schools. From learning how to read and write to learning basic Alabama history, Benjamin reminisces about his time at the Consolidated Schoolhouse.[0:44] - James introduces himself.[1:52] - While in the service, James found out his father had passed.[6:17] - The Poarch School was a white house with a barn in the back.[9:03] - James' grandma raised eight girls, four boys, and three grandchildren.[10:11] - Benjamin describes his time at school.[11:17] - A day in the life of James attending the Consolidated School.[14:04] - A train ride cost a quarter.[17:30] - There was no playground at the school.[22:10] - James spent some time living in Louisiana.[26:24] - In the service, James had a couple of close calls.[28:11] - After the military, James worked at the International Paper Company.[32:00] - James reminisces about lost love.[37:50] - Benjamin talks about doing his family research.

Today, we're continuing our conversation about the Consolidated School. Sheila Odem joins us to discuss her time attending the Consolidated School and how it differs from school life today. We listen in as she reminisces about "the good ole days".[1:03] - Sheila and Mayra Odem introduce themselves.[5:03] - Sheila reminisces about life in the Poarch Creek community. [6:38] - Back in the day, students didn't have a lot of toys.[9:16] - Students sometimes had to wrap themselves in blankets.[12:35] - Sheila remembers a time when she was disciplined in school.[18:44] - Christmas time at the Consolidated School was special.[24:06] - Kids in The Tribe tried to be helpful after a shotgun accident.[28:05] - Each day started with a prayer.[30:23] - There wasn't enough money to keep the Consolidated School.[32:10] - When Sheila changed schools, they were treated differently.[35:05] - Sheila remembers when there were threats of riots.[41:49] - During downtime at her job, Sheila learned to type.[49:40] - Mayra reminisces about being in the Boys and Girls Club.[57:39] - Sheila discusses her dad's leg injury.[1:13:03] - Sheila has never been ashamed of being an Indian.

Today, we're continuing our conversation about the Consolidated School. Ronnie Jackson and Kent McGhee join us to discuss her time attending the Consolidated School and how it differs from school life today. The two men reminisce about their time in school, from their first jobs to what they're doing now.[0:50] - Kent introduces himself.[1:50] - Ronnie introduces himself.[9:00] - Kent reminisces about how much things have changed.[12:20] - There wasn't room for dances and events at the school.[14:22] - The school was heated by coal heaters.[16:50] - There were no problems for Kent and Ronnie when they switched schools.[20:12] - The Consolidated School shut down because it was no longer feasible.[23:00] - When Ronnie first started working, he was put in charge of recreations.[29:32] - After the school closed, it was where the council met.[33:55] - Ronnie takes us through his career.[37:30] - Kent details his career.[42:32] - The community built the current ball field.[48:36] - A lot of things have changed in the community.

Today, we're continuing our conversation about the Consolidated School. Maxine Lassiter joins us to discuss her time attending the Consolidated School and how it differs from school life today. We listen in as she reminisces about her early years attending school to becoming the school's bus driver.[1:10] - Maxine Lassiter introduces herself.[4:40] - Education was important to Maxine's family.[8:10] - Maxine remembers when she tapped danced at a gathering.[10:40] - The Consolidated School only had outhouses.[12:00] - In first or second grade, Maxine had a band.[15:18] - At the age of 40, Maxine earned her GED.[18:30] - In 1984, Maxine was the school's bus driver.[21:50] - Maxine reminisces about the places she lived.[25:14] - Most of the food Maxine's family ate, her grandpa grew.[28:40] - People in town always treated Maxine and her family differently.[35:18] - Maxine reminisces about her religion.[41:26] - It was important to Maxine for her kids to go to school.[47:32] - Religion runs deep in the Poarch Community.[52:00] - Maxine shares some words of wisdom with her grandkids and great-grandkids.

In the 1940s, Escambia County opened the Poarch Consolidated School to provide Indian children with a "separate but equal" education.Today, Ethel Walker and Eloise Hall join hosts Billy Baily, Brandy Chunn and Blake Crook to continue the conversation about education in the Poarch Creek community. The two women share stories about their experiences in the Poarch Consolidated School. They reminisce not only about their school but also their memories of growing up in the Poarch Creek Community.Time Stamps:[0:54] - The guests introduce themselves.[2:23] - Students of Poarch Consolidated School rode the school bus.[3:40] - Ethel and Eloise take listeners through a typical school day.[7:00] - Ethel reminisces about her admiration for her teachers.[10:02] - Education was important to Ethel and Eloise's families.[12:05] - Adults learned how to write, read and count money at the Sale Center in the Consolidated School.[14:00] - There was a playground at the school.[16:30] - Most students finished school.[18:00] - The ladies recount their favorite school memories.[19:19] - One time, the students got a surprise visit from Santa Claus[23:13] - There was no glass in the windows.[24:26] - Students learned how to make candles and soap.[25:50] - Once going to high school, Ethel experienced discrimination.[30:09] - Attending the Consolidated School was a good time.[33:30] - There were several creeks where people were baptized.[36:16] - New Home Church was a one room building.[42:50] - Ethel describes her childhood house.[44:11] - Eloise describes what healthcare was like.[48:00] - The ladies talk about their parents.[50:47] - The community helped each other out.[55:17] - The Poarch Creek community has grown over the years.

Education is one of the most important things to the Poarch Creek people. But it wasn't always easy. Segregation and poverty were just two things the Poarch Creek people had to contend with as they strived for quality education.Today, Lori Sawyer joins hosts Billy Baily, Brandy Chunn, and Blake Crook to discuss the long and sometimes complicated history of education in the Poarch Creek community. We learn about how the Tribe's perseverance helped pave the way for students today.Time Stamps:[0:30] - Billy introduces his new co-hosts, Brandy Chunn and Blake Crook.[1:30] - Lori Sawyer introduces herself.[2:30] - Opening a museum for the Tribe wasn't easy.[5:10] - Using grant money, Lori helped research the history of education in the Poarch Creek community.[7:11] - In the 1930s, school missionaries Dr. Edward Macey, his wife Anna, and Reverend Edwin Van Edwards were shocked by the level of poverty within The Tribe.[10:09] - Lori describes how the Tribe's poverty wasn't accidental. [12:50] - Timber companies came into Poarch Creek land after the Civil War and began pushing them out.[16:20] - Jim Crow laws segregated Indian children from white children.[18:30] - Poarch Creek Schools date back to 1799.[21:20] - In the 1790s, white and Indian children went to school together in harmony.[24:04] - Lori details the Head of Perdido, Bell Creek and Poarch Switch communities and their locations.[28:05] - With lumber donations, Poarch Creek men built the schools.[29:30] - The Gibson and Poarch schools were the first designated Indian Schools.[30:06] - Partnering with the University of South Alabama, Lori and her team were able to locate the school in Bell Creek.[33:08] - Lori takes us on a "drive" touring each school, the first stop is the Head of Perdido school.[35:30] - Next stop is the Poarch Switch School.[37:30] - The third stop is the Bell Creek School.[40:50] - Lori talks about the condition of the schools.[42:53] - It wasn't common, but some Poarch children were able to go to Atmore to get a higher education.[44:00] - Fourth stop is Anna Macey's house. [47:20] - The Maceys helped advocate for better education.[49:04] - The white house attached to St. Anna's is the first Indian School.[52:22] - Lori explains why the consolidated school opened.[54:30] - The county didn't provide much assistance for the schools.[57:00] - Reading, writing, and math were the primary subjects learned.[59:05] - In the 1940s, Poarch Creek parents sued the county over poor treatment at schools.[1:05:58] - Segregation wasn't as long ago as many people think.[1:08:30] - The first thing the Tribe did after getting federally recognized was ensure access to education.[1:11:04] - Lori has a message for current students.Hosts:Billy Bailey, Tribal Historic Preservation SpecialistBrandy Chunn, Museum CoordinatorBlake Crook, Museum Receptionist

Join us this week as we discuss crucial issues concerning tribal lands, sovereignty, and property rights in Indian Country. Joined by Kitcki Carroll and Liz Malerba from the United South and Eastern Tribes (USET), the conversation sheds light on the complex challenges faced by U.S. tribal nations, particularly focusing on the importance of land for tribal communities. The discussion explores topics such as the significance of land in tribal governance, cultural preservation, economic development, and the inherent rights of indigenous peoples. Through insightful analysis and firsthand experiences, the episode emphasizes the need for accurate historical education, the recognition of tribal governments' sovereign status, and the collective commitment to fostering equity, justice, and meaningful collaboration between tribal nations and the United States.[0:06] - This podcast marks the first collaboration with another organization.[1:14] - Today's guests introduce themselves and share some background information.[2:48] - Kitcki explains what USET is.[5:59] - USET advocates for national policies benefiting tribal nations, focusing on education and awareness.[9:08] - Why does land hold such importance to the USET tribes?[12:26] - Liz emphasizes reclamation without taking land from others.[15:51] - Kitcki advocates for full recognition of rights and unrestricted land use.[18:22] - Kitcki highlights the complexity of current quasi-sovereignty models.[19:34] - What is USET's ultimate goal?[22:29] - Addressing systemic bias requires challenging narratives, educating about tribal nations' history and rights, and collectively fostering equity and justice.[24:32] - Liz and Kitcki counter biases in federal Indian policy through diplomacy, demanding change.[27:11] - Liz asserts that comparison between Holocaust Museum's to the Museum of the American Indian reveals U.S. struggles in acknowledging historical atrocities.[29:42] - Kitcki points out that USET's uniqueness lies in its willingness to challenge long established narratives.[32:13] - Kitcki adds that a lack of accurate historical education interferes with meaningful conversations; reform and genuine discussions are necessary.[35:15] - It's crucial that we properly educate future generations.[37:47] - Understanding the complex history can be daunting, but we need to aim for a future in which the U.S. fulfills its obligations to native people.[39:19] - USET advocates for diplomatic solutions, aiming for self-governance and recognition of rights in future generations.[42:57] - Liz argues that tribal land restoration is complex, involving surveys, federal guidelines, and bureaucratic hurdles.[45:40] - Land acquisition advocacy requires adequate federal funding; it's imperative to address funding gaps for tribal land restoration.[47:44] - Land restoration for tribal nations emphasizes resisting external interference and ensuring economic rebuilding opportunities.[51:52] - Land loss, especially sacred sites, poses challenges in balancing progress and preserving culture.[53:29] - One such challenge lies in pursuing progress and growth while preserving cultural identity.[56:59] - Liz adds that tribal nations face challenges in protecting sacred sites during infrastructure development.[58:37] - Federal agencies and archaeologists often dismiss the significance of sacred sites; it's important that we respect both cultural heritage and environmental concerns.[1:01:44] - Kitcki explains why understanding constitutional complexities and federal Indian law is...

Continuing our conversation about land and its importance to Native Americans, Attorney General Laurie Stinson and VP of Compliance Venus McGhee Prince join host Megan Zamora to talk about how complicated land can be. Laurie and Venus discuss the political aspect of land and land rights. They also explain the differences between fee, trust and reservation land.[1:07] - Venus discusses what it was like to work for the Interior.[3:00] - Revenue, money, taxes, fire and police jurisdictions all play a role in land.[5:05] - There are three types of land: fee, trust and reservation.[6:30] - Congress or the Secretary of State sets up reservations.[8:07] - Trust land can't be used for gaming if it was trusted after 1988.[10:04] - It's unlikely for a casino to be built in Alabama.[14:00] - Land is important to exercise our sovereignty.[17:20] - Hunting and fishing rights don't affect the Poarch tribe like other tribes do.[21:35] - Mineral rights are a complex issue to navigate.[25:05] - Venus explains what Friends of the Court means.[27:25] - In some ways, tribes are treated like states and, in other ways, are treated like less than states.[32:30] - The biggest hurdle is trying to expand land bases.[36:50] - Opponents have been using the legal system to chip away at our sovereignty.[41:22] - There are many things tribal citizens can do to protect land.

Continuing our conversation about land and its importance to Native Americans, Justin "Bobo" Rolin and Keith Martin join host Megan Zamora. They talk about the importance of sustainability when it comes to picking plants. They also discuss their feelings on why land is crucial to Native people and why it's essential to buy land.[1:30] - The guests are introduced.[2:30] - Land and people are all one. The land is us.[4:35] - During COVID, a system for gardening was set up.[7:05] - Historically, Creek people were always communal. [9:10] - Seed banks would help protect against future pandemics.[11:00] - The Tribal Youth Conservation Corps is full of teaching moments.[15:35] - Snakes use gopher holes to survive wildfires.[17:44] - Keith reminisces about commodities.[21:30] - Buying land is one of your safest investments.[25:18] - There hasn't been any trust land added since the 80s.[27:20] - One of the biggest misconceptions is that most tribes speak their indigenous languages fluently.[30:00] - Fishing rights are just another form of forced assimilation.[36:00] - Kids are learning whether you know it or not.[41:44] - River Cane is a versatile plant.

Today is a collaboration between A Place Called Poarch and Poarch Stories. Today, we're starting a series of conversations about land and its importance to Native Americans. Over the next few episodes, we'll discuss different perspectives on how the land is used today. [1:16] - Megan explains the Poarch Community's land.[2:10] - Land is part of Native American people.[4:10] - To Brandy, the land is like genealogy to Native American people.[6:30] - The Creek Nation occupied all of Georgia, most of Alabama, and parts of Tennessee and Florida.[8:24] - Stick ball helped settle land disputes between neighboring tribes.[12:50] - The federal government put land in trust to federally recognized tribes. [14:35] - Lynn McGee was the oldest patriarch of the Poarch community.[22:11] - Land grants came about after the Creek War.[25:13] - Poarch Creek has a checkerboard reservation.[27:00] - The Fire Department has a larger jurisdiction than the Police Department.[30:25] - There have been a lot of lawsuits with timber companies.[32:39] - The idea of ownership didn't exist until Europeans came here.[34:25] - A communal mindset is what sets Native Americans apart.[40:09] - Billy explains the different sections of land.[48:06] - We have a lot more culture ingrained in us than we realize.Books:Unworthy Republic: The Dispossession of Native Americans and the Road to Indian Territory by Claudio Saunt

A Place Called Poarch - The Churches that Made PoarchFrom Baptist to Pentecostal to Episcopal, The Tribe has always had a strong connection to Christianity. Though the Poarch community was so small when all of these denominations got their start, they were still able to thrive. Their success was due, in part, to each denomination leader's willingness to allow the religion to adapt to the Poarch community's way of life.Today, we hear interviews from the 1970s between Reverend Mace McGhee and Dr. Anthony Paredes. Mace tells about the vibrant history of Christianity within the Poarch community.Time Stamps:[1:35] - We learn a brief history of Reverend Mace McGhee.[4:16] - The first Christian Church was Mars Hills Baptist Church in the 1800s. [10:00] - Baptist Churches came to Bell Creek first.[13:00] - We hear an old interview clip from 1972 where Mace talks about the Baptist Church.[15:00] - There were two Episcopal Churches brought to The Poarch community.[19:00] - Mace tells a story about being raised in the Episcopal Church.[23:45] - In the 1920s, the Holiness Church came to The Tribe when Brother Raymond Coon came.[28:50] - A Company owned land that they allowed the Episcopal Church to use.[32:00] - Mace tells us about some of the past Holiness Church pastors.[35:20] - There were many different denominations of the Holiness Church.[39:00] - The New Home Church has a long history. We hear Mace tell us.[42:23] - In the 1950s, The Poarch Community Church began as a Mennonite Church.[47:30] - Within the Mennonite Community, women were typically required to dress a certain way. But women in the Poarch Community didn't have resources to dress that way.[52:45] - Churches quickly learned they needed to adapt to the Indian way of life.Links:WebsiteFacebookInstagram

A Place Called Poarch - Interview with April SellsEverybody has the right to be respected. That's what today's guest EMA Director, April Sells believes. This belief is what has made Emergency Services so successful over the years.April has been at Poarch for 35 years -- as long as some people have been here on this Earth. Through those years she has been selfless with her time and has given so much of herself to The Tribe. Today, she discusses her family history, the Princess Contest, her various jobs through the years and how she has navigated life not looking like a "stereotypical Indian".Time Stamps:[2:00] - We're introduced to April Sell and learn how she came back to The Tribe.[5:00] - April explains the evolution of The Princess Contest.[7:00] - The Sugar Shack was where all the young couples lived until they migrated to different homes.[9:00] - We learn about April's family history.[10:45] - April doesn't meet many people's stereotypical expectations of what an Indian looks like, she discusses how that affects her interactions with people. [14:30] - Throughout history, April's family thought they were the only Indians in the world.[17:30] - April was never ashamed of who she is and where she came from.[19:23] - Genetics don't care what you're supposed to be or what you're supposed to classify yourself as.[21:26] - Playing the role she did in the Princess Contest, April was a role model to many.[24:34] - Through the years, April has had a lot of different jobs.[28:15] - During Hurricane Ivan the Emergency Management System was developed.[29:14] - At one point, the Fire Department was made up of all women volunteers. [31:24] - Hurricane Ivan was devastating for many Native American tribes.[33:30] - We hear about some of the services the Fire Department has been able to provide that weren't always available.[40:00] - The pandemic had a huge impact on the Tribe.[43:18] - The Gym has been an invaluable place for children.[46:30] - April discusses how she was able to raise money for various youth sporting events.[50:19] - Being selfless and giving herself to The Tribe is a lesson April learned from her grandmother.[54:40] - We learn the origin of April's name.Links:WebsiteFacebookInstagram

This week on A Place Called Poarch, we interview Sandra Day and Nancy Smith. Nancy is the Director of Nursing for the PBCI Health Clinic and has been nursing for 40 years. Sandra is the Community Health and Education Director for the PBCI Health and has been nursing for over 40 years. 

In this episode, we discuss the time period after Creeks were removed from Alabama. Our Poarch Creek ancestors were able to utilize the land, which provided everything they needed for survival. We dive into how the cattle and timber industry gave our ancestors a glimpse into the outside world.    

This episode features Family Services Director, Amanda Montgomery. Amanda is a Poarch Creek Tribal Member and has been working for the Tribe since 2009. During the interview she helps shed some light on the serious of domestic violence and how difficult it can be for victims to come forward.If you or anyone you know is a victim of any type of abuse, please contact your local law enforcement agencies to report it. 

This week on A Place Called Poarch, our host, Megan Zamora, sat down with Museum Coordinator, Brandy Chunn, and Gift Shop Clerk, Blake Crook. They talk about their current and past exhibits, and share the story of how Chief Calvin McGhee's original headdress made its way back home to Poarch. 

Welcome back to A Place Called Poarch. This week I sat down with Sandra Hiebert, Director of Education for the Poarch Band of Creek Indians. Sandra has been with the Tribe for 30 years now, and has watched the Tribe go from using typewriters and beepers to using top notch laptops and smart phones. 

Welcome back to A Place Called Poarch. This week I had the opportunity to sit down with Assistant CFO, Dominic Cromartie. Dom is from Tallahassee, FL and has been working with the Tribe for 11 years now. His positivity are laughter are infectious and makes him such an awesome person to be around. 

This week I had the opportunity to interview the man who was my very first boss, Jay Dorris, the CEO for Wind Creek Hospitality. Jay grew up in a small town with a strong sense of community, just like the Poarch Creek Indians. We reminisced about the Wind Creek Atmore grand opening and how the Wind Creek Hospitality brand started out as a small bingo hall in Atmore, Alabama.

This week we interviewed Cody Williamson, CEO for Creek Indian Enterprises development authority. Cody is an attorney by trade and has a background in finance. He shared with us the importance of delegation, and just how much employees with positive attitudes can affect everyone around them. 

This week we interview Brent Pinkston, COO for Wind Creek Hospitality. Brent was born in Chicago, IL but over the years he made his way to Poarch which he now calls home. During our interview, Brent tells us how he made his way from working in cornfields to becoming the Chief Operating Officer for Wind Creek Hospitality. 

This week our host, Megan Zamora, interview Chad Klinck, CFO for the Creek Indian Enterprises Development Authority (CIEDA). Chad has been the CFO for 7 years, has an extensive background in public accounting, and was even an Ironman! We hope you enjoy this interview as much as we did!

Lori Stinson is the Poarch Band of Creek Indians Attorney General and Chief Legal Officer. She is not only an incredible advocate for the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, she's an all around wonderful person. 

Welcome back to A Place Called Poarch. This week we interviewed Mr. Terry Sweat, who is the Chief of Staff for the Poarch Band of Creek Indians Tribal Government. He works closely with our Tribal Council and other executive team members. Terry is really passionate about the work he does for the Tribe, and he truly cares about his employees, Tribal Members, and our community.

This month on Poarch Stories our Tribal Historic Preservation Office interview Dr. Alex Colvin who is the Public Programs Curator for the Alabama Department of Archives and History. We discussed the strong nature of Creek society and the importance of the Creek mother and her side of the family's role in teaching the children how to be valuable members of the Tribe.

This month on Poarch Stories our Tribal Historic Preservation Office interview Dr. Alex Colvin who is the Public Programs Curator for the Alabama Department of Archives and History. We discussed the strong nature of Creek society and the importance of the Creek mother and her side of the family's role in teaching the children how to be valuable members of the Tribe.

This month on Poarch Stories our Tribal Historic Preservation Office interview Dr. Alex Colvin who is the Public Programs Curator for the Alabama Department of Archives and History. We discussed the strong nature of Creek society and the importance of the Creek mother and her side of the family's role in teaching the children how to be valuable members of the Tribe.

For this episode, the PBCI Tribal Historic Preservation Office interviewed Dr. Gregory Waselkov, a retired professor of archeology for the University of South Alabama. He shared his knowledge on Creek history from first contact with Europeans up to the Creek War, primarily focusing on trade between the Creeks and the Europeans.

Stephanie Bryan is the first female to hold the highest leadership position for the Poarch Band of Creek Indians. In this episode you will hear about her childhood and how she transformed from a shy little girl to the Tribal Chair of one of the most successful Tribes in the nation. 

Tribal Councilwoman, Sandy Hollinger, is a remarkable person who has overcome a lot of adversity in her life. She's a songbird with a heart of gold and during this interview she shares her heart, prayers, thoughts and testimony. 

For the first episode of Poarch Stories, the Poarch Band of Creek Indian's Tribal Historic Preservation Office interviewed Dr. Erin Nelson. Dr. Nelson is the Assistant Professor of Anthropology at the University of South Alabama. Her research focus is Southeastern Archeology with an emphasis on Mississippian culture. During the interview, she shared information about the Mississippian ways of life before European contact.

This episode of A Place Called Poarch features Tribal Council Secretary, Charlotte Meckel. Ms. Meckel is a vivacious and entertaining woman, and she was kind enough to sit down and share her story.

This week on A Place Called Poarch our host, Megan Zamora, interview Candace Fayard. Candace is the newest member of Tribal Council, a lifelong learner, and an advocate for cultural awareness. Listen in as she shares her experiences so far.We would love your feedback!https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/86J6F38

On this episode of A Place Called Poarch, our host, Megan Zamora, interviewed Tribal Council Vice Chair Robbie McGhee. Robbie is also the Chief Government and Public Affairs officer for the Poarch Band of Creek Indians. Now you'll notice that there's some audio playing in the background. During the interview, Robbie had the opportunity to take part in a virtual tribal consultation, where he was able to share the Tribe's views on some pertinent issues.

Tribal Council Member,  Arthur Mothershed, is also Wind Creek Hospitality's Vice President of Business Development and Government Relations. He's a very busy man, and I caught him at his office at Wind Creek in between meetings. He was really open with me and shared a lot about his upbringing and his family and how he came to be where he is today.

In this episode of A Place Called Poarch, Dewitt Carter shares what it was like growing up in the Poarch Community, as well as voicing his concerns for the future of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians. 

In this episode of A Place Called Poarch, I conducted my first interview with Tribal Council Member Keith Martin. We discuss what it was like for him growing up in the Poarch Community, how it's changed over time, and so much more. It is my pleasure to share this with you, and I will tell you that I enjoyed my time with Keith immensely, and I think you will too.