The contribution to the growing Palm Desert community college is part of its $3,000,000 Campaign to support its unique program integrating Native curriculum into postsecondary education.
MORONGO INDIAN RESERVATION – In its ongoing effort to help educate and prepare the next generation of tribal leaders, the Morongo Band of Mission Indians has donated $100,000 to the California Indian Nations College (CINC) in Palm Desert, CA.
The donation is part of the two-year community college’s $3,000,000 Campaign, launched in April with an initial goal to raise $1 million by December 30, 2021. CINC is working to become the first fully-accredited tribal college in the state of California to offer two-year degrees.
Riders competed for thousands of dollars in prize money and a shot at qualifying for the BFI Open Team Roping during the Oct. 9 free rodeo at the Morongo Indian Reservation.
MORONGO INDIAN RESERVATION, CALIF. – Amateur and professional ropers and riders competed for cash prizes at the 8th Annual Morongo Open Ranch Rodeo, a free, family-friendly event held on Saturday, October 9 at the Morongo Indian Reservation.
Riders competed for thousands of dollars in prize money and a shot at qualifying for the BFI Open Team Roping during the Oct. 9 free rodeo at the Morongo Indian Reservation.
MORONGO INDIAN RESERVATION, CALIF. – Amateur and professional ropers and riders competed for cash prizes at the 8th Annual Morongo Open Ranch Rodeo, a free, family-friendly event held on Saturday, October 9 at the Morongo Indian Reservation.
Competitive dancers and drum groups from across the U.S. and Canada honored ancient songs and dances of Native American tribes.
Morongo Indian Reservation – The beauty and rich traditions of Native American dancing, art, and music were celebrated at the 30th Annual Morongo Thunder & Lightning Powwow, held over three days beginning on Friday, Sept. 24.
To mark its 30th anniversary, the annual powwow hosted by the Morongo Band of Mission Indians was held outdoors under a large, open-sided tent set above a packed field that had served as the powwow grounds in early days of the event.
Morongo Travel Center Source ID #: 63; Application # 2021-001-MNSR
Permit: 2021-001-MNSR
Final Action: The United States Environmental Protection Agency, Region 9 (EPA) is issuing a minor New Source Review (NSR) permit for the Morongo Travel Center (“Source”). The Source is located at 48540 Morongo Trail, Cabazon, California 92230, within the Morongo Indian Reservation. TheEPA is issuing this minor NSR permit tothe Morongo Band of Mission Indians, 12700 Pumarra Road, Banning, California, 92220. The contact for the Source is Dana Morey, Environmental Manager, (951) 755-5198.
This final permit decision will authorize the construction and operation of a gasoline dispensing facility (GDF), consistent with the minor NSR regulations for Indian country (40 CFR 49.151-161). The gasoline dispensing facility will dispense both diesel and octane gasoline. It will include 22 fuel dispensers, six underground storage tanks, and a convenience store. This project will increase emissions of air pollutants as follows: 12.27 tons per year (tpy) of volatile organic compounds (VOC). More information on the emission limitations associated with this permit can be found in Section 5 of the technical support document for this action.
Public comments: The public comment period started on August 4, 2021 and ended on September 7, 2021. No comments were received.
Administrative Record: The final permit and all other supporting information are available through www.regulations.gov under Docket ID No. EPA-R09-OAR-2021-0043. If you are not able to access the administrative record through the online docket, please call Catherine Valladolid at (415) 947-4103 to obtain a hardcopy. Catherine Valladolid can also be reached through the EPA Region 9’s toll-free general information line at (866) 372-9378.
Permit Appeal: In accordance with 40 CFR 49.159, within 30 days after a final permit decision has been issued, any person who filed comments on the draft permit or participated in a public hearing may petition the Environmental Appeals Board (EAB) to review any condition of the permit decision. Any person who failed to file comments or to participate in the public hearing may petition for administrative review only to the extent that the changes from the draft to the final permit or other new grounds were not reasonably ascertainable during the public comment period. The 30-day period within which a person may request review under this section begins with service of notice of the final permit decision. A petition to the EAB is a prerequisite to seeking judicial review of the final agency action under Section 307(b) of the CAA. For purposes of judicial review, final agency action occurs when we deny or issue a final permit and agency review procedures are exhausted. Following an appeal to the EAB, the EPA will issue a final permit decision as specified in 40 CFR 49.159(d)(8).
Permit Effective Date: This permit becomes effective immediately upon issuance, unless review of the final permit is requested under 40 CFR 49.159(d), in which case, the permit’s effectiveness will be stayed and construction cannot be authorized under this permit until agency review procedures are exhausted under 40 CFR 49.159(d) and the Regional Administrator subsequently issues a final permit.
This notice is to provide the public an opportunity to comment on the Morongo Band of Mission Indians (Tribe) Water Quality Standards. In April 2018, the Tribe was authorized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA), to administer water quality standards and certification programs under the Clean Water Act for all waters within the exterior boundaries of the Tribe’s Reservation or otherwise subject to the Tribe’s jurisdiction.
Background
The Tribe’s Environmental Protection Department worked closely with the U.S. EPA to develop Water Quality Standards. These standards will be adopted through incorporation into the Tribe’s Ordinance 39 Surface Water Quality Protection Ordinance. This Ordinance was approved by Tribal Council on March 15, 2018. The purpose of this Ordinance is to carry out the provisions of the Morongo Environmental Protection Ordinance, Section IV(C)(1), to protect surface water quality on the Reservation. Carrying out this purpose includes, among other things, protecting the health, safety and welfare of Tribal members and all other persons within the boundaries of the Reservation; preventing the deterioration of water quality and other natural resources resulting from surface water pollution; and protecting the cultural, social and economic stability of the Reservation.
Per the Water Quality Standards Regulation at 40 CFR 131, the Tribe is required to hold a public hearing to solicit public input on these Water Quality Standards prior to submission for U.S. EPA approval.
Public Comment Opportunity
The Tribe is formally soliciting public input on Water Quality Standards prior to formal tribal adoption and U.S. EPA submittal of the current document. Ordinance 39 Surface Water Quality Protection Ordinance with incorporated Water Quality Standards may be viewed at https://morongonation.org/environmental/tribal-water/. You may also request a copy by contacting the Environmental Protection Department Tribal Water Program at twp@morongo-nsn.gov or (951) 755-5197.
Comments may be sent by email to twp@morongo-nsn.gov with the subject “WQS Comment Letter” or by mail to:
Morongo Band of Mission Indians Environmental Protection Department 12700 Pumarra Road Banning, CA 92220
Comments will be accepted through November 26, 2021.
Public Hearing
A public hearing will be held on Wednesday October 27, 2021, 6:30 p.m. at the following address:
Morongo Band of Mission Indians Community Center 13000 Malki Road Banning, CA 92220
At the public hearing, commenters will be given an opportunity to make oral comments or to summarize previously submitted written materials. If you would like to provide oral comments, please submit your name to twp@morongo-nsn.gov with the subject “WQS Hearing Speaker.”
If you will need accessibility accommodations at the hearing, please contact the Environmental Protection Department Tribal Water Program at twp@morongo-nsn.gov or (951) 755-5197.
If deemed appropriate, the planned Oct. 27, 2021 public hearing may be converted into a virtual meeting in response to COVID-19. If this occurs, an advance notice and link to participate in the virtual meeting will be posted on the Morongo website at https://morongonation.org/environmental/tribal-water/.
Work continues for the I-10 Tune Up, Pavement Rehabilitation project. Please note, this schedule is subject to change. For the latest, visit the I-10 Tune Up page at https://i10tuneup.com/.
RIVERSIDE, CA – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) is continuing construction on Interstate 10 (I-10) from Beaumont to State Route 111 (SR-111). The following information is for the week of September 12 to 17, weather dependent:
During daytime work hours of 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, construction crews will continue electrical work and perform roadway excavation, joint seal improvements and shoulder pavement operations going both directions from 8th St in Banning to SR-111.
Alternating lane and ramp closures will occur during nighttime work hours, from 7 p.m. to 6:30 a.m., Sunday through Thursday:Demolition, paving, joint seal operations and grinding going both directions for entire project length.Install k-rail and construction signs from Beaumont Ave to Hargrave going eastbound.Remove existing k-rail going westbound from 8th St to Main St. Crews have been moving into the next crossover in Segment 1, which will occur going eastbound from east of Beaumont Ave in Beaumont to Hargrave in Banning. The current crossover (from 8th St to Main St) is being removed, and lanes will open as normal, with some width restrictions. This new crossover is anticipated to be in place by mid-September. Motorists should anticipate a new traffic shift in the area to accommodate the crossover.
Due to the fuel spill incident that occurred on Wednesday, September 1, the eastbound Hargrave onramp will be closed until further notice. The eastbound 8th St and Ramsey St onramps may also be closed on an as needed basis.
The following are anticipated 10-day ramp closures. During these 10-day closures, the ramps will be improved. Closures will begin during nighttime work hours and reopen at the end of the night shift:WB Morongo Trail offramp is anticipated to close September 7 and reopen September 18. Commuters should use Main St or Malki as a detour WB Ramsey offramp is anticipated to close September 13 and reopen September 24. Commuters should use 8th St as a detour. WB Malki offramp is anticipated to close September 19 and reopen September 30. Commuters shoulder use Morongo Trail or Main St as a detour. WB Morongo Trail onramp is anticipated to close September 19 and reopen September 30. Commuters should use Main St or Malki as a detour. WB Fields Rd offramp is anticipated to close September 19 and reopen September 30. This schedule is subject to change and is weather dependent. Know before you go! To stay on top of roadwork in the Inland Empire go to Caltrans District 8 and sign up for commuter alerts. Follow us for the latest information on Facebook and Twitter. To assist in planning your commute, view live traffic conditions using QuickMap and planned lane closures.
For those with sensory disabilities requiring alternate formats (i.e. Braille, large print, sign language interpreter, etc.) and those needing information in a language other than English, please contact Public Affairs at 909-383-4631 or TTY 711.
The Annual Rodney T. Mathews Jr. Scholarship has awarded more than $525,000 to Native American students, the most underrepresented group in higher education.
MORONGO INDIAN RESERVATION – Two Native American students from California have each received a $10,000 scholarship from the Morongo Band of Mission Indians near Palm Springs as part of the 16th Annual Rodney T. Mathews Jr. Scholarship Program.
Since its launch, Morongo’s program has awarded more than $525,000 to 53 Native American students attending universities across the nation. The scholarship program is open to enrolled members of any of the more than 100 federally-recognized tribes in California.
“Morongo is proud to offer the Rodney T. Matthews Jr. Scholarship to help reverse the trends that have left Native Americans as the most underrepresented group in colleges and universities,” Morongo Tribal Chairman Charles Martin said. “We look forward to this annual opportunity to support outstanding Native American students as they pursue a higher education to improve themselves and the future of their tribal communities.”
The 2021 recipients are:
Britney Vargasof the Iipay Nation of Santa Ysabel is pursuing a B.A. in Elementary Education at Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colo. The recent graduate of Julian High School in San Diego County served as Native American Club Secretary, was a three-sport athlete and class secretary. Ms. Vargas also holds the title of Miss Julian 2020-2021 and was the previous Teen Miss Julian. She has logged over 650 in volunteer community hours during high school. Her goal is to develop a curriculum that teaches Native American culture to elementary school students in hopes of preserving Native American heritage for future generations.
“I think it’s absolutely amazing that the Morongo Band of Mission Indians does this for kids like me and other kids who struggle financially,” Vargas said. “I am just so grateful that I even had the opportunity to apply for the scholarship. This will help me pay for my books, meal plan and a dorm room, and allow me to focus on my studies.”
Sasheen Shailee Colegrove Raymond of the Hoopa Valley and Yurok Tribes is working towards her PhD. in Global Leadership and Change at Pepperdine University. She currently works at Humboldt State University’s Social Work Department where she assists rural and indigenous communities. She also helps Native American students navigate the educational system and cultivates relationships with local tribal agencies to increase internship placements. Through her studies, she plans to continue to conduct research and data collection to assist Tribal communities and inform policy decisions.
“I am extremely grateful for this opportunity and that Morongo continues to support the Native community and Indian country because ultimately I feel it’s an important piece for all of us to be able to contribute back to our communities,” Raymond said. “This scholarship lifts such a huge burden off my shoulders, and I am truly thankful from the bottom of my heart.”
American Indians and Alaskan Natives comprise less than 1% of the nation’s college students, the lowest college enrollment rate of any ethnic group, according to the U.S. Department of Education. Similarly, only 15% of American Indians hold bachelor’s degrees, fewer than any ethnic group in the U.S., according to the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
The scholarship program honors the late Rodney T. Mathews Jr., a Morongo tribal member and Hastings Law School graduate who passed away in 2004 after serving as a judge pro tem for more than a decade.
Scholarship applicants are considered based on their academic success and community service. Candidates must be full-time students at an accredited college or university; complete 60 hours with a designated California Indian agency; and be actively involved in the Native American community.
Proposed Action: The United States Environmental Protection Agency, Region 9 (EPA) provides notice of and requests public comment on the EPA’s proposed action relating to the draft minor New Source Review (NSR) permit for the Morongo Travel Center (“Source”). The Source will be located at 48540 Morongo Trail, Cabazon, California 92230, within the Morongo Indian Reservation. The EPA is proposing to issue this minor NSR permit to the Morongo Band of Mission Indians, 12700 Pumarra Road, Banning, California, 92220. The contact for the Source is Dana Morey, Environmental Manager, (951) 755-5198.
This draft permit, if finalized, will authorize the construction and operation of a gasoline dispensing facility (GDF), consistent with the minor NSR regulations for Indian country (40 CFR 49.151-161). The gasoline dispensing facility will dispense both diesel and octane gasoline. It will include 22 fuel dispensers, six underground storage tanks, and a convenience store. This project will increase emissions of air pollutants as follows: 12.27 tons per year (tpy) of volatile organic compounds (VOC). More information on the emission limitations associated with this draft permit can be found in Section 5 of the technical support document for this action.
Request for Public Comment: All written comments or requests for a public hearing must be received or postmarked by September 7, 2021. Comments may be submitted via the following methods:
Other: By contacting Catherine Valladolid for other submission methods. See the Contact Information section below.
Any person may submit written comments on the draft permit and may request a public hearing during the public comment period. These comments must raise any reasonably ascertainable issue with supporting arguments by the close of the public comment period (including any public hearing). Please address comments with the subject “Comments on Draft Minor NSR Permit for Morongo Travel Center.”
All comments that are received via email or through www.regulations.gov will be included in the public docket without change and will be available to the public, including any personal information provided. Comments submitted to the EPA through a non-electronic delivery method will also be included in the public docket without change and will be available to the public, including any personal information provided, unless the comment includes Confidential Business Information (CBI) or other information the disclosure of which is restricted by statute. Information that is considered to be CBI or otherwise protected should be clearly identified as such and should be submitted only through a non-electronic delivery method; such information should not be submitted through www.regulations.gov or e-mail. If a commenter sends e-mail directly to the EPA, the e-mail address will be automatically captured and included as part of the public comment. Please note that an e-mail or postal address must be provided with comments if the commenter wishes to receive direct notification of the EPA’s final decision regarding the draft permit following the public comment period. For information about CBI or multimedia submissions and general guidance on making effective comments, please visit www.epa.gov/dockets/commenting-epa-dockets.
Public Hearing: A public hearing has not been scheduled for the draft permit action. However, anyone may request a public hearing. Any request for a public hearing must be made in writing and state the nature of the issues proposed to be raised at the hearing. The EPA will hold a hearing whenever there is, on the basis of requests, a significant degree of public interest in a draft minor NSR permit. The EPA may also hold a public hearing at its discretion, whenever, for instance, such a hearing might clarify one or more issues involved in the minor NSR permit decision. The EPA will provide notice at least 30 days in advance of the date and time of any scheduled public hearing. The 30-day public comment period will be extended to the close of any public hearing on the Morongo Travel Center.
Final Action: Before taking final action on the draft permit, the EPA will consider all written comments submitted during the public comment period. The EPA will send notice of our final permit decision to each person who submitted comments and contact information during the public comment period or requested notice of the final permit decision. The EPA will summarize the contents of all substantive comments and provide written responses in a document accompanying the EPA’s final permit decision. The EPA’s final permit decision will become effective 30 days after the service of notice of the decision unless:
1. A later effective date is specified in the permit;
2. The decision is appealed to the EPA’s Environmental Appeals Board pursuant to 40 CFR 49.159(d); or
3. There are no comments requesting a change to the draft permit decision, in which case the final decision shall become effective immediately upon issuance.
Appeals to the EAB: In accordance with 40 CFR 49.159, within 30 days after a final permit decision has been issued, any person who filed comments on the draft permit or participated in the public hearing may petition the EAB to review any condition of the permit decision. The 30-day period within which a person may request review under this section begins when the Region has fulfilled the notice requirements for the final permit decision. A petition to the EAB is, under section 307(b) of the Act, a prerequisite to seeking judicial review of the final agency action. For purposes of judicial review, final agency action occurs when the EPA denies or issues a final permit and agency review procedures are exhausted.
Contact Information: If you have questions, or if you wish to obtain further information, please contact Catherine Valladolid at (415) 947-4103 or via email at R9airpermits@epa.gov. If you would like to be added to our mailing list to receive future information about this draft permit decision or other permit decisions issued by EPA Region 9, please contact the EPA at R9airpermits@epa.gov.
***Please bring the foregoing notice to the attention of all persons who would be interested in this matter.***
The Morongo Band of Mission Indians plans to use existing Southern California Edison power lines, a section of which cross its reservation in Banning, to help connect solar, wind and battery resources to the regional power grid.
Morongo partnered with the utility company to develop and finance part of an upgrade to the transmission lines, the tribe reported in a press release Monday.
Morongo Transmission LLC, a partnership between the tribe as majority owner and a New York-registered investment company called Coachella Partners LLC, will operate the project. SCE was able to gain new rights-of-way across the Banning reservation, according to the tribe, while Morongo Transmission LLC was permitted to lease a percentage of the project’s transfer capability.
In return for financing a portion of the project alongside SCE, the tribe will “share in the proceeds” of the transmission lines, Morongo spokesperson Phil Southard said.
Morongo said in the release that it is the first Native American tribe in the country to be approved as a participating transmission owner, or an entity that owns or operates power lines.
“Morongo is honored to be making history once again as the first tribe in the nation to be a participating transmission owner,” said Charles Martin, the tribe’s chairman.
“Our tribe has a deep connection to the environment, and the agreement by Morongo Transmission to lease capacity on Southern California Edison’s newly upgraded system will further that legacy by delivering green energy resources to the Southern California power grid.”
Morongo’s involvement is part of a broader effort from SCE to deliver more renewable power to the Southern California region.
The partnership falls under Southern California Edison’s West of Devers Upgrade, a project several years in the making that replaced nearly 50 miles of aging power lines between a substation near Palm Springs and San Bernardino.
The project tripled the system’s capacity to transmit power generated by renewable resources to major population centers in Southern California, according to the tribe. Those specific renewable energy projects, like solar farms, are located in more eastern parts of Riverside County, Imperial County and outside the state. Southard added that none of the renewable energy sources are located on the Morongo reservation.
Southard did not have specific figures on Monday for the project’s financial impact on the tribe.
In February, the Board of Governors for the California Independent System Operator approved Morongo Transmission’s application to join the nonprofit, a first for a federally recognized tribe. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission then finalized all necessary approvals to allow operations by Morongo Transmission earlier this month.
Elliot Mainzer, CAISO’s board president and CEO, praised Morongo and SCE in February “for their creativity and flexibility in developing an innovative ownership structure that enables this critical transmission project to proceed,” the press release said.
The tribe’s majority-owned partnership will use newly upgraded Southern California Edison transmission lines to connect solar, wind and battery resources to the regional power grid. The Morongo Band of Mission Indians near Palm Springs, California, has become the first Native American tribe in the nation to become a participating transmission owner as part of a new project that will help California meet its green energy goals.
In early July, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) finalized all necessary approvals allowing operations by the Morongo Transmission LLC, a partnership between the Morongo Band of Mission Indians as the majority owner and Coachella Partners, LLC, a subsidiary of Axium Infrastructure.
FERC’s action follows a February approval by the California Independent System Operator (Cal-ISO), marking the first time a federally recognized tribe has received a designation as a participating transmission owner.
“Morongo is honored to be making history once again as the first tribe in the nation to be a participating transmission owner,” said Morongo Tribal Chairman Charles Martin. “Our tribe has a deep connection to the environment, and the agreement by Morongo Transmission to lease capacity on Southern California Edison’s newly upgraded system will further that legacy by delivering green energy resources to the Southern California power grid.”
The agreement is part of SCE’s West of Devers Upgrade Project which replaced four circuits of aging high-voltage power lines along a 48-mile existing corridor that stretches from the Devers substation near Palm Springs to Grand Terrace and San Bernardino.
The project, which crosses the Morongo Indian Reservation west of Palm Springs, tripled the system’s capacity to transmit power generated by solar, wind, and battery resources in eastern Riverside County, Imperial County and outside California to population centers in Southern California at no increased cost to ratepayers.
Approved by the CAL-ISO in 2011, the project supports California’s Renewable Portfolio Standard and greenhouse gas emission reduction goals.
Completed in May 2021, SCE spent nearly 24 months the existing transmission lines with high-capacity conductors on new, stronger towers, designed to increase power flow by 3,200 megawatts (MW).
Morongo partnered with SCE to develop and finance the three-fold upgrade (1,600 MW to 4,800 MW) to the transmission lines. As part of that agreement, SCE obtained new rights of way across the Reservation and granted Morongo Transmission, LLC the option to lease a percentage of the project’s transfer capability in return for payment of a pro rata percentage of the project cost, sparing SCE the need to fund the entire project.
FERC’s action follows the February 2021 decision by the Cal-ISO Board of Governors to approve Morongo Transmission, LLC’s application to join the ISO. At that time, Elliot Mainzer, ISO’s Board President and CEO, commended Morongo and SCE “for their creativity and flexibility in developing an innovative ownership structure that enables this critical transmission project to proceed.”
The West of Devers Upgrade Project will help bring more renewable energy to communities in southern California. Photo: Southern California Edison
MORONGO INDIAN RESERVATION – Tribal Chairman Robert Martin, a nationally recognized and respected leader in Indian Country who guided the Morongo Band of Mission Indians near Palm Springs, CA for three decades, will retire from tribal government, effective July 1.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my journey as I worked with our Tribal Council, our membership and leaders in all branches of governments to advance self-reliance and tribal sovereignty,” said Robert Martin, who decided not to seek reelection in June after six consecutive terms as chairman.
“I’m proud of the great progress our tribe and our Tribal Council have made together during my tenure as we created new economic and educational opportunities for our members, our region, and all of Indian Country,” Robert Martin said. “I am confident that the next generation of tribal leaders will continue the important work of advancing tribal sovereignty.”
Elected to his first term as chairman in 1983, Robert Martin served a total of 18 years as chairman and another 11 years on the Morongo Tribal Council spread across the next four decades.
Charles Martin
Charles Martin, no relation to Robert Martin, was elected as the new Morongo Tribal Chairman and will be seated July 1. He has served 12 years on the Morongo Tribal Council. Born and raised on the Morongo Reservation, Charles Martin is deeply committed to service and leadership within the tribe. His career in both tribal leadership and business development has been characterized by a strong work ethic leading to career experience in numerous fields including public safety, entertainment and organizational management.
“Hardworking, engaging, and entrepreneurial, Chairman Robert Martin’s leadership transcended generations and cultures,” said Charles Martin. “He is an inspiration and a role model for tribal leaders everywhere, and we look forward to benefiting from his continuing wisdom and counsel for many years to come.”
During his time in tribal leadership, Robert Martin helped lift Morongo from generations of crushing poverty and neglect into the economic and cultural powerhouse it is today. A consummate diplomat, Robert Martin’s warm nature, deep insights and calming demeanor in the face of challenges were the hallmarks of his steady leadership.
“Chairman Robert Martin has – and will continue to be a pillar in Indian Country,” said California State Assemblymember James Ramos. “Chairman Martin serves as a role model for so many of us and I thank him for his teachings.”
Robert Martin grew up on the Morongo Reservation, helping his family raise cattle. A lifelong resident of the San Gorgonio Pass, he graduated from Banning High School, studied business at Mt. San Jacinto Community College and worked as a contractor and homebuilder before entering tribal government.
A fierce champion of self-reliance, Robert Martin led Morongo when the tribe joined with the Cabazon Band of Mission Indians to block state and county officials from shutting down the desert tribes’ high-stakes bingo and card parlors in 1986.
That struggle led the Morongo and Cabazon tribes to secure the landmark 1987 U.S. Supreme Court decision that confirmed the sovereignty of Indian tribes across the nation, and their right to establish gaming operations. That watershed decision fueled an economic and social renaissance that brought roads, clean water, housing, health care, jobs and education to reservations across the U.S.
“There were some in Indian Country who told us to quit because they thought we were risking too much,” Robert Martin recalled years later. “Some thought we should be content with modest bingo halls and small card rooms. But I felt the issue was too important to give up.”
Robert Martin oversaw construction of the original Casino Morongo in 1994 and, 10 years later, the development of the $250 million Morongo Casino Resort & Spa. The towering 27-story resort remains the tallest building between Los Angeles and the Arizona border, and was expanded in 2020.
Under Robert Martin’s leadership, Morongo also diversified its business portfolio with new ventures in finance, health care, manufacturing and retail. Today, Morongo’s business enterprises generate nearly $3 billion annually in regional economic activity and provide over 2,500 jobs, making the tribe one of Riverside County’s largest employers.
The tribe’s successful businesses fund Morongo’s vital tribal government services for its members, including healthcare, public safety, fire protection, education, and social services.
“Without a doubt, Chairman Robert Martin was instrumental in setting Morongo on a path of financial stability and economic success that will benefit generations of tribal members for years to come,” said Riverside County 5th District Supervisor Jeff Hewitt.
From meetings at the White House to offering testimony before the U.S. Congress, the California State Legislature and the Riverside County Board of Supervisors, Robert Martin worked closely with city, county, state and federal lawmakers on a multitude of issues including economic development, land use, water, energy, education, the environment, transportation and tribal gaming.
Robert Martin’s devotion to protecting tribal sovereignty and Indian culture led him to fight for the rights of Native children, driving Morongo to join other tribes, state attorneys general and child welfare organizations in defending the Indian Child Welfare Act against a 2018 court challenge.
A passionate defender of Morongo’s rich culture and tribal traditions, Robert Martin remains deeply committed to developing future tribal leaders. He helped establish a tuition-free college preparatory academy at the Morongo Reservation – the first of its kind in the nation – and ardently supports college scholarship programs to help tribal youth secure a higher education.
Kevin Gaines spent 40 years in fire service, including the last six leading the Morongo Fire Department.
Morongo Fire Engineer Jason Carrizosa has been promoted as his replacement.
MORONGO INDIAN RESERVATION, Calif. – After serving six years with the Morongo Fire Department, Fire Chief Kevin Gaines has hung up his helmet, marking the end of a distinguished career that began 40 years ago in CAL FIRE, the Morongo Band of Mission Indians announced this week.
Morongo Fire Department Engineer / ALS Coordinator Jason Carrizosa has been named the new chief. Carrizosa, an 11-year veteran of the department, is a Morongo Tribal Member and grew up on the Morongo Reservation.
“Working for Morongo has been extremely fulfilling and I’m very proud of the strides that the Morongo Fire Department has made over the past six years with the support of a Tribal Council who is very committed to advancing public safety,” Gaines said. “I will miss the members of my department and the many tribal members I have come to know over the years. I know Jason will do an amazing job as the department continues to move forward.”
“Working for Morongo has been extremely fulfilling and I’m very proud of the strides that the Morongo Fire Department has made over the past six years with the support of a Tribal Council who is very committed to advancing public safety,” Gaines said. “I will miss the members of my department and the many tribal members I have come to know over the years. I know Jason will do an amazing job as the department continues to move forward.”
Gaines spent 34 years with CAL FIRE before joining Morongo Fire in 2015. At Morongo, Gaines helped strengthen the Advanced Life Support (ALS) and paramedic programs, brought on new state-of-the-art firefighting equipment and oversaw the department’s response to major incidents all across the San Gorgonio Pass, including the 33,000-acre Apple Fire in 2020. Under Gaines’ leadership, Morongo firefighters helped battle destructive wildland fires across California, such as the Woolsey Fire, Carr Fire and Camp Fire.
Gaines was integral in cultivating the tribe’s strong mutual aid relationships with surrounding emergency service agencies in addition to directing efforts to protect Morongo residents and the tribe’s environmental, cultural and economic resources during emergency incidents.
“We are truly grateful to Chief Gaines who served Morongo with the highest levels of professionalism and demonstrated extraordinary leadership, expertise and compassion during critical incidents,” said Morongo Tribal Chairman Robert Martin. “As we wish Chief Gaines the best in his well-earned retirement, we are excited to welcome our new fire chief, Jason Carrizosa, who will continue to grow the department’s legacy for protecting life and property across the region.”
A Banning High School graduate, Carrizosa holds an undergraduate degree in business and marketing from Culver-Stockton College in Missouri, where he played collegiate baseball. He played rookie ball for the Kansas City Royals before returning home and graduating from Moreno Valley College’s fire academy.
“Having grown up on the Morongo reservation, it means the world to me to accept this position, which will allow me to protect the safety of my fellow tribal members and our neighbors in surrounding communities,” Carrizosa said. “I have some big shoes to fill, and I have immense respect for everything Chief Gaines accomplished to strengthen our department. I intend to continue along that path.”
The Morongo Fire Department, which was formed in the 1950s as a team of volunteer firefighters, is now made up of 24 full-time staff. From its inception, the department has responded to emergencies on the reservation, as well as in neighboring cities and across California.
Casino’s partnership with its patrons transforms a nationwide shortage of coins into an opportunity to help the Boys and Girls Clubs of the San Gorgonio Pass.
MORONGO CASINO RESORT & SPA – Thanks to the generosity of its guests, the Morongo Casino Resort & Spa presented a $128,643 check to the Boys and Girls Clubs of the San Gorgonio Pass to support the organization’s vital community youth programs.
Due to the nationwide coin shortage caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, businesses across the country – including casinos like Morongo – have had limited access to quarters, nickels, dimes, and even pennies. To help alleviate the national strain, Morongo launched a program in July offering its guests a chance to donate the spare change from their winnings to charity, and thousands did.
“We are simply overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from our guests during these challenging times to help local youth through Morongo’s community coin donation program,” said Morongo’s Tribal Chairman Robert Martin. “We want to thank all of our guests who participated in this effort to support local families and children who receive services from the Boys and Girls Clubs of the San Gorgonio Pass.”
Amy Herr, the executive director of the Boys and Girls Clubs of the San Gorgonio Pass, said the funds will be used to help operate education support and other programs offered by the organization.
“We are beyond grateful for the generosity of Morongo’s guests, and for the casino’s innovation in turning a nationwide coin shortage into a positive that is benefiting local children during these critical times,” Herr said. “Once again, Morongo has stepped up for local youth, and we are very thankful.”
In October, Morongo raised $60,000 for the Boys and Girls Clubs at the 24th Annual Morongo Charity Golf Tournament, held at the Morongo Golf Club at Tukwet Canyon.
Photo Caption: Boys and Girls Clubs Board Chair Phillip Hutchins (left to right), Morongo Tribal Vice Chair James Siva, Boys and Girls Clubs Executive Director Amy Herr and Richard St. Jean, Chief Operating Officer of the Morongo Casino Resort & Spa.
California has rolled out COVID-19 Exposure Notifications to Android and iOS devices. These notifications are anonymous, and do not track or store your name, contact information, whereabouts, or movements.
When a person tests positive for COVID-19, CA Notify will trigger an alert to the phones of people who may have been in close proximity — within 6 feet of that individual for 15 minutes or more — in the past 14 days.
For the safety of yourself and others, please opt in to the notifications by following the steps below:
iPhone iPhone users can enable CA Notify in their device’s settings
1. Update your iOS to version 13.7 or later 2. Go into Settings 3. Scroll down to Exposure Notifications 4. Turn on Exposure Notifications 5. Select United States> California
Android CA Notify is available on the Google Play Store:
Like the tribe’s existing travel center, the new state-of-the-art location will feature discount fuel and popular amenities.
CABAZON, CA – The ultimate Interstate 10 pit stop is about to get better. The Morongo Band of Mission Indians broke ground last week on a second Morongo Travel Center, complete with a 32-pump discount gas station, dog park, car wash, slot machines, convenience store and other amenities.
Located behind Morongo’s existing travel center off Morongo Trail and Seminole Drive, the 6.7-acre project will also offer multiple electric vehicle charging stations (including eight Tesla superchargers), RV dumping, propane fills, six high-speed diesel truck pumps and diesel exhaust fluid.
“This state-of-the-art center will have everything a weary traveler could ask for – and then some,” said Tribal Chairman Robert Martin of the Morongo Band of Mission Indians. “It will complement and ease wait times at our current Morongo Travel Center, which is immensely popular and will remain open.”
Known for low-cost gasoline, sparkling amenities, and nearby restaurants, the 24-hour Morongo Travel Center has been a beacon for freeway motorists and local residents for years. The new center is expected to open next May and is being built Moorefield Construction, Inc.
The project marks the latest addition to Morongo’s master-planned development of retail, hospitality, and service offerings along Interstate 10 in Cabazon. In recent years, Morongo has also welcomed such favorites as In-N-Out Burger, Starbucks, Taco Bell, Cold Stone Creamery, Panda Express and a new flagship store for Hadley Fruit Orchards.
USFS is performing a controlled burns around the area causing more smoke, there is no need for concern. No evacuation orders are planned at this time.
UPDATE 8/4/2020 4:00 PM:
The Apple Fire evacuation orders have been lifted for both the Morongo Reservation, which includes areas west of Potrero Road and north of Morongo Road, and the City of Banning, which includes the areas north of Wilson between Sunset and Hathaway.
All areas north of Morongo Road east of Potrero Road and west of Whitewater Canyon on the Morongo Reservation remain under an evacuation warning.
The Apple Fire continues to be very active in Millard Canyon and Wood Canyon.
Please be aware that the canyons remain closed to members and residents as heavy equipment is operating in these areas as part of the firefighting effort. You may also notice many fire trucks and other heavy equipment on Morongo, Millard, Potrero and Verdugo as well as firefighters on foot in many of these areas. Please use extreme caution while driving and walking on the Reservation to keep everyone as safe as possible.
The Tribal Administration Building will reopen beginning tomorrow, August 5th at 8:00 am.
Morongo Reservation Updates Provided On: Morongo Tribal Member One-Call Morongo Emergency Service Radio Station 89.1 FM
In response to the Novel Coronavirus (COVID‐19) pandemic, the Morongo Band of Mission Indians has taken a number of proactive steps to best protect the health, safety and well‐being of our Tribal Members, employees, guests, and our neighbors in surrounding communities.
We had to temporarily close several Tribal business enterprises, including the Morongo Casino Resort & Spa, Casino Morongo, Canyon Lanes Bowling Alley and Hadley Fruit Orchards, but have slowly been able to get them back open with all the necessary precautions.
Morongo Casino Resort & Spa, Casino Morongo, Canyon Lanes Bowling Alley, Tukwet Canyon Golf and Hadley Fruit Orchards are now all back in business as of May 22, 2020.
The Morongo Tribal Council remains fully focused on this issue and is working with federal, state, local and tribal organizations in a unified response to this national public health emergency. We are doing everything we can to address the needs of our tribal community and our region, and we remain in close contact with health and public safety officials.
Below please find links to useful information:
Centers for Disease Control (CDC) tips on how to stay healthy, how to the prevent the spread of the Coronavirus and what to what to do if you think you are sick: Click here
Recommendations for coping with the stress brought on by the outbreak: Click here
The latest updates from the County of Riverside: Click here
Members of the Morongo Tribal Council and Morongo Fire Department recently welcomed a new state-of-the-art fire engine to the reservation.
The new Morongo Fire Engine, believed to be the first
in Riverside County designed to carry two types of firefighting foam, will help
firefighters respond to incidents on the reservation and across the region.
MORONGO INDIAN
RESERVATION – TheMorongo Band
of Mission Indians recently welcomed a new, custom-built KME fire engine packed
with the latest computer and firefighting technology to further the Morongo
Fire Department’s ability to protect life and property during emergencies on
the reservation, across Riverside County and beyond.
The new Morongo fire
engine is believed to be the first in Riverside County with a dual pre-plumbed
foam system able to carry 20 gallons of standard Class A foam for fighting
ordinary fires as well as another 20 gallons of Class B foam for dousing fires
involving gasoline or diesel fuel.
“Protecting public safety
is very important to Morongo, both on our reservation and in communities all
across Riverside County,” said Morongo Tribal Chairman Robert Martin. “With its
innovative technology and heightened capabilities, our new Morongo fire engine
will help ensure our firefighters are best equipped to protect the lives and
property of our tribal members, employees, guests and neighbors.”
Morongo Fire Department Chief Kevin Gaines and the new Morongo Fire Engine.
The new fire engine is
equipped with a 500-gallon water tank, a 1,000-gallons-per minute (GPM) master
stream, and a 1,500-GPM two-stage pump capable of propelling water at high
pressure or in high volumes. Advanced technology will help protect firefighters
and the public, such as automatically applying brakes to specific axles as
needed to prevent skidding as the rig responds to emergencies.
The fire engine also
features color-coded fire hoses and corresponding colored LED-equipped gauges
and controls to help firefighters easily monitor water and foam tank levels
from a far greater distance for maximum efficiency.
Morongo Tribal Chairman Robert Martin and Morongo Fire Chief Kevin Gaines hold a plaque before the new Morongo Fire Engine.
“Our department is
extremely grateful to work with such a
forward-thinking Tribal Council that continues to be deeply committed to public
safety,” said Morongo Fire Chief Kevin Gaines. “Providing our firefighters with
state-of-the-art equipment and training allows us to provide the best possible
service to those in need during a crisis.”
The Morongo Fire Department responds to
emergencies on the Morongo Indian Reservation, in neighboring cities across the
San Gorgonio Pass and all across the state. In recent years, Morongo
firefighters helped battle dozens of devastating wildfires, from the 2018 Camp
Fire in Northern California, the deadliest and most destructive wildfire in
California history, to the 96,000-acre Woolsey Fire in Los Angeles County and
the 230,000-acre Carr Fire in Shasta and Trinity counties.
More than 35,000 children have
participated in the Christmas Cheer All Year Shopping Spree, sponsored by
Morongo for the past 10 years
Rancho Cucamonga,
Calif. (Dec. 23, 2019) – Holiday joy and excitement ruled the day as more than 3,000 disadvantaged children from across
Southern California took part on Monday in the annual Christmas Cheer All Year
Shopping Spree, sponsored by the Morongo Band of Mission Indians.
Over the past decade
Morongo has given $1 million to the nonprofit, resulting in more than 35,000
children in need being treated to a free holiday shopping spree.
“Morongo
is excited to be celebrating our 10th year of partnership with
Christmas Cheer All Year as we have worked together to bring holiday joy to
tens of thousands of children who otherwise might not have received any
presents,” said Morongo Tribal Chairman Robert Martin. “Nothing compares to
seeing the smile on a happy child’s face during the holidays.”
Throughout
the morning, children from across Southern California
emerged from the Target Store in Rancho Cucamonga, CA happily clutching superhero action figures, dolls, stuffed animals, Lego sets, soccer balls,
books, board games and other toys that they selected during the three-hour
shopping spree.
“This was a wish come
true,” said 13-year-old Gabe Silva of Banning as he held a shoe-box sized
container of Yu-Gi-Oh cards. “I could come in and shop for the stuff I really
wanted.”
His mother, Lisa
Silva, said the shopping spree was an amazing experience for all the children,
adding “It’s really nice to see them just enjoy the moment.”
Rick
Lozano, founder of Christmas Cheer All Year and a longtime Fox 11 News
journalist, said Morongo’s ongoing support helps ensure children enjoy the
holidays.
“Morongo
has been a blessing to us as the title sponsor of Christmas Cheer All Year for
the last 10 years, and we can’t thank the tribe enough for providing $1 million
to support kids,” Lozano said. “The tribe’s generosity continues to make a huge
difference in the lives of underprivileged children and their
families.”
Children who took part in the shopping spree were selected by
local nonprofit organizations, including 600 children
from Banning, Beaumont and across the San Gorgonio Pass.
Over the past five years, the Morongo Band of Mission Indians has
contributed more than $5 million to support communities and nonprofit
organizations that strengthen lives across Southern California.
Morongo Golf Tournament Raises $10,000 for Cabazon
Public Library
More than 100 golfers participated in the event at the
Morongo Golf Club at Tukwet Canyon to help support the valuable community
library.
Morongo Tribal Council Vice Chair James Siva (left) and Tribal Councilman Brian Lugo (right) present a $10,000 check to Cabazon Public Library Branch Manager Ted Conable (center).
Cabazon, Calif – More than 100golfers
took to the fairways to help raise $10,000 to benefit the Cabazon Community
Library at a golf tournament held on Monday, December 2 at the Morongo Golf
Club at Tukwet Canyon.
The
proceeds will be used to support the library’s operations, including new
weekend and afterschool programming, updating the patio area and securing new
books and materials.
“We
are proud to support the Cabazon Library and all of the great programs and
services it provides to children and adults in the surrounding community,” said
Morongo Tribal Council Vice Chair James Siva. “The library is a vital asset to
our region, and we want to thank all the golfers who took part in the
tournament to help ensure this facility continues to thrive.”
Vice
Chair Siva presented a check for $10,000 to Ted Conable, branch manager of the
Cabazon Library, at a luncheon following the golf tournament.
Opened in 2013 as part of the
Riverside County Library System, the 7,000-square-foot Cabazon Library offers a
spacious multi-purpose room for library programs and community events, a
children’s corner, teen area, adult reading area, free Wi-Fi, and public
internet computers.
Volunteer Jason McFadden of Fountain of Life Temple Church in Banning helps package turkeys being donated by the Morongo Band of Mission Indians.
The tribe increased the number of turkeys being given out to 12,500 for the 34th Annual Morongo Thanksgiving Outreach Program.
MORONGO INDIAN RESERVATION – The Morongo Band of Mission Indians distributed 12,500 free turkeys this week to help provide holiday meals to families, seniors and veterans in need as part of the tribe’s 34th Annual Thanksgiving Outreach Program.
This year’s program will once again help nonprofit groups, churches and charities provide more than 225,000 holiday meals across Southern California. Recognizing the growing need across the region, the tribe increased the number of turkeys it donated this year by 25 percent over past years.
Since the program’s creation, Morongo has given away nearly 145,000 turkeys, which in turn have provided an estimated 2.75 million holiday meals.
“The roots of Morongo’s Thanksgiving Outreach program stretch back decades to a time when our tribe sought to help others even as we ourselves faced adversity,” said Morongo Tribal Chairman Robert Martin. “This year, we continue our legacy of giving by providing tens of thousands of holiday meals to those in need across the region.”
Volunteers Isabella Schieffer, Curtis Gardner and Jackie Rankin of VFW Post 1508 in Wildomar help package some of the 12,500 turkey donated by Morongo.
On Nov. 18 and Nov. 19, dozens of tribal members and volunteers gathered at the Morongo Community Center to distribute the Thanksgiving turkeys to 114 nonprofit organizations such as churches, food pantries, schools, veteran groups and homeless shelters from across Southern California. Groups receiving turkeys hailed from Banning, Beaumont, Riverside, San Bernardino, Moreno Valley, Temecula, Indio, Desert Hot Springs, Indio, Redlands, Los Angeles, and other communities.
The groups will use the turkeys to provide hot holiday meals to those in need or will distribute the birds in holiday food baskets with all the fixings to help feed thousands of people who would otherwise not be able to afford and enjoy a Thanksgiving dinner.
Non-profit groups receiving turkeys ranged from the Coachella Valley Rescue Mission in Indio to the Los Angeles Rescue Mission, the Galilee Center in Mecca, the Western Eagle Foundation in Temecula, Victory Outreach Church in Banning, Mt. Calvary Baptist Church in Riverside, and many others.
Wendell Crawford, outreach pastor at Hope Unlimited Church in Banning, loads turkeys donated by Morongo.
“For years, our rescue mission has relied on the generosity of the Morongo tribe to help provide hope and hot meals to thousands in the Coachella Valley at Thanksgiving,” said Darla Burkett, executive director of the Coachella Valley Rescue Mission, which received 400 turkeys from the tribe.
Pastor Victor Archuleta of Victory Outreach Church in Banning said the 200 turkeys being provided by Morongo will help struggling families who might not otherwise be able to share a Thanksgiving dinner.
“What a tremendous blessing it has been to have turkeys donated by Morongo every year. Having a reliable partner during the holidays gives our church and members hope as we serve families in our San Gorgonio Pass communities,” Archuleta said.
Hundreds of veterans and military families benefitted from the tribe’s Thanksgiving Outreach program, which provided more than 300 turkeys this year to local chapters of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and other military support groups.
The Los Angeles Mission received 250 birds to help feed the homeless this holiday. Herb Smith, president of the Los Angeles Mission, said the Morongo donation will help feed those on Skid Row in Los Angeles.
Brian and Caryn Chambers load 60 turkeys donated by the Morongo Band of Mission Indians to the First Missionary Baptist Church in Banning.
“Morongo has always stood by our community’s veterans and their families who have served our nation and sacrificed so much. Through our partnership, the Western Eagle Foundation will be to help military families share and enjoy holiday meals with their loved ones,” said Todd Sieja, president of the Western Eagle Foundation in Temecula.
“The Morongo Band of Mission Indians’ ongoing support of our programs have been critical in achieving our shared mission to provide comfort and dignity to homeless populations those in the greatest need. Because of the tribe’s continued giving, we can serve and bless thousands of homeless families and individuals again this year,” Smith said.
To receive turkeys, participating groups submitted applications to the tribe and were notified over the summer that they had been selected. For organizations interested in receiving turkeys next thanksgiving, applications for next year are due May 7th, 2020.
Morongo’s Annual Rodney T. Mathews Jr. Scholarship has awarded more than $500,000 to Native American students, the most underrepresented group in higher education.
MORONGO INDIAN RESERVATION –Four Native American students from across California have each received a $10,000 scholarship from the Morongo Band of Mission Indians near Palm Springs as part of the 15th Annual Rodney T. Mathews Jr. Scholarship Program.
Since the program’s launch, Morongo has awarded more than $500,000 to 53 Native American students attending universities across the nation. The scholarship program is open to enrolled members of any of the more than 100 federally recognized tribes in California.
“Morongo is proud to support the Rodney T. Matthews Jr. Scholarship in its mission to reverse the trends that have left Native Americans as the most underrepresented group in colleges and universities,” Morongo Tribal Chairman Robert Martin said. “In the past 15 years Morongo has been able to provide Native American students with more than a $500,000 in college scholarships.”
The 2019 recipients are:
Minda Streamer of the Los Coyotes Band of Cahuilla and Cupeno Indiansis pursuing her A.M. in Clinical Social Work in the Trauma Responsive Program of Study at the University of Chicago. She currently interns at a child development center and charter school. She plans to return to her Native community and work as a health clinic counselor.
“I am extremely appreciative of this scholarship and the Morongo community for awarding it to me,” said Streamer. “It is a tremendous help to be able to focus on my studies instead of worrying about whether I’ll be able to pay for rent or groceries.”
Pectasan Qasil Feliz of the Yurok Tribeattends the University of Oregon where she is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology: Early Child Development. She hopes to return to her tribe as a Child Psychologist to provide children with a resource who better understands them.
“I am really grateful to Morongo for this scholarship that is helping me to succeed in my studies. It is really encouraging knowing that someone outside of my small community cares about Native American students succeeding in higher education,” Feliz said.
Shayleena Britton of the Wailacki, Yuki Nomlacki Tribes is working towards her B.A. in 3D Animation at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco. Britton wants to use her animation and media skills to make a film about her reservation highlighting the Wailaki language, and to raise awareness of tribal culture and languages. She currently manages a Facebook page titled “Wailaki Kunnes Bakang Ishjii Naagai” to help give people access to the Wailaki language. “I want to thank the Morongo community for accepting me and providing me with this scholarship,” Britton said. “Paying for school has been the most difficult part of pursuing my degree, but thanks to Morongo I am able to continue pursuing my goal.”
William Feather of the Round Valley Indian Tribesis pursuing a Master of Social Work at Humboldt University. He currently works as the Inmate Services Coordinator at the Mendocino County Jail where he runs a social services program for the more than 300 inmates. He intends to pursue a doctorate and become a Native American Spiritual Leader for the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.
“I’m so thankful to Morongo for helping me get closer to my dream,” Feather said. “Receiving this scholarship is helping me to continue my education and be a positive role model for my kids. I only hope that I can pay it forward one day.”
American Indians and Alaskan Natives comprise less than 1% of the nation’s college students, the lowest college enrollment rate of any ethnic group, according to the U.S. Department of Education. Similarly, only 15% of American Indians hold bachelor’s degrees, fewer than any ethnic group in the U.S., according to the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
The scholarship program honors the late Rodney T. Mathews Jr., a Morongo tribal member and Hastings Law School graduate who passed away in 2004 after serving as a judge pro tem for more than a decade.
Scholarship applicants are considered based on their academic success and community service. Candidates must be full-time students at an accredited college or university; complete 60 hours with a designated California Indian agency; and be actively involved in the Native American community.
More than 900 competitive dancers and 20 drum groups from across the U.S. and Canada joined with thousands of spectators to experience traditional dances, music, art and food.
Morongo Indian Reservation – More than 25,000 spectators gathered to reaffirm and celebrate Native American cultural traditions at the 29th Annual Morongo Thunder & Lightning Powwow, held Sept. 27-29 at the Morongo Indian Reservation.
One of the most anticipated powwows of the year, the annual three-day gathering hosted by the Morongo Band of Mission Indians attracted more than 900 Native American dancers and 20 professional drum groups from across the U.S. and Canada.
Throughout the weekend, dancers wearing intricate, handmade regalia of supple leather, fine beadwork and brightly-colored feathers competed in a variety of events that showcased different Native American dance styles and music.
“The Morongo Thunder and Lightning Powwow celebrates the diversity of Native American culture while helping to preserve our traditions and heritage,” said Morongo Tribal Chairman Robert Martin. “Every year, we look forward to welcoming so many families from across the region to experience Native American dance, music, food and art.”
More than 75 vendors took part in the Morongo powwow’s annual Indian Market, selling authentic Native jewelry, expert beadwork, pottery, clothing, and basketry. Native food vendors served up delicious foods such as Indian tacos and tasty Indian frybread.
As the highlight of each day, the spectacular Grand Entry drew hundreds of dancers wearing traditional regalia into the powwow arena where they danced together as competitive drum groups and singers performed. The remarkable display of music and motion transformed the arena as hundreds of men, women and children crowded the floor to dance.
The powwow also featured bird singing and peon games, which are the traditional songs and games of Morongo and other tribes in Southern California
The 29th Annual Morongo Thunder & Lightning Powwow took place in the Morongo Outdoor Pavilion, located beside the Morongo Casino Resort and Spa.
