History made with the first Poarch Creek Tribal Citizen tapped as police chief
Surrounded by co-workers, family, and friends, Chris Rutherford was sworn in on October 28, 2024, as the Police Chief of the Poarch Creek Tribal Police Department. He joined the Tribal Police Department in 1998 and is making history as the first Poarch Creek Tribal Citizen. Tribal Chair Stephanie A. Bryan also spoke about the significance of the moment. “Chris represents the strength and dedication of our people. His achievement is a significant milestone for our Tribe and a testament to the potential we have within our community. We look forward to his leadership and the positive impact he will continue to make.” Before joining the police department, Rutherford began his career 32 years ago with the Tribe as a mechanic. He has also served in the Alabama National Guard and is also a certified firefighter According to a press release announcing his promotion, Rutherford’s family has a history of public service, with his father serving in the U.S. Army and his grandfather serving as a fire chief. He says the role is a tremendous honor that he will not take lightly. His supervisor, Bruce Lee, Director of Public Safety, witnessed Chris’s growth over the years. “Chris has worked very hard to prepare himself for this role, and his close connection to the Tribe and community makes him the perfect fit.” Rutherford’s appointment as Police Chief marks a new chapter for the Poarch Creek Indians Tribal Police Department, as well as a moment of pride for the entire Poarch community. His leadership is expected to bring an innovative and community-centered approach to law enforcement while honoring the rich traditions of the Tribe.
Alabama Poarch Creek leader Stephanie Bryan is using her role to inspire her community
Elected as the first female political leader to tribal chair and CEO of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians in 2014, Stephanie Bryan possesses traits that make a strong leader: passion, vision, and drive. Bryan was raised on the Poarch Band of Creek Indian reservation in Atmore and understands the importance of helping her community grow. “My passion and drive every day is driven by being able to help people improve their quality of life, and that’s what motivates me every day,” she says. As the chair and CEO, Bryan’s role is diverse: Overseeing tribal government, public safety, the education department, Boys & Girls Club, federal contracting services, Wind Creek Hospitality, etc. “I hope my legacy and my leadership is known that I truly care about people and I want to give people the tools that they need to succeed, and then inspire them to go and do great things,” she says. Power Moves: Stephanie Bryan leads the Poarch Band of Creek Indians efforts in Alabama from Alabama News Center on Vimeo. Republished with the permission of The Alabama News Center.
Documentary on Alabama’s Poarch Band of Creek Indians to premiere APT
A new documentary about Alabama’s Poarch Band of Creek Indians will premiere on Alabama Public Television (APT) on Thursday, November 17, at 8:30 p.m. Produced by Jacksonville State University’s Longleaf Studios, “The Forgotten Creeks” can also be streamed from APT’s website and the PBS video app starting November 17. “We are honored that our Tribe was selected to be the subject of this documentary produced by Jacksonville State University and Alabama Public Television,” said Stephanie Bryan, Poarch Band of Creek Indians Tribal Chair. “We feel incredibly blessed to have this recounting of both our history and our lives today.” “The Forgotten Creeks” recalls the history of Alabama’s Mvskoke Creek Indians from Spanish contact in the 1500s through the Indian Removal Act of 1830. The documentary explores what happened to those Mvskoke Creeks who remained in Alabama following the Trail of Tears and documents those ensuing years of poverty, assimilation, and discrimination that nearly destroyed their indigenous identity. It also traces how finally, in 1984, after more than 40 years of unwavering advocacy by Tribal Leaders, the federal government recognized the Tribe as a sovereign, or independent, Indian nation with ancestral lands in Atmore, Alabama, and elsewhere in the state. Federal recognition was the beginning of a new chapter in the Tribe’s history. Economic development brought self-sufficiency, and the Tribe’s focus on educational opportunities, family values, and faith guided its transition to prosperity. “As an APT commissioner, JSU employee, and friend of the Poarch people for nearly 30 years, it was a real honor to connect these organizations and work together to produce such an important documentary,” said Pete Conroy, director of strategic partnerships and special projects at JSU. “I particularly thank Tribal Leadership for their trust and also JSU producer and director Seth Johnson for his mastery in telling this powerful story.” Seth Johnson, who serves as distinguished professor of graphic design and assistant dean of the College of Arts and Humanities at JSU, stated, “Producing this film was a rewarding experience. Our students were able to work alongside an accomplished film studio in the production of the film and gained valuable industry experience in doing so. We owe a significant thank you to the Poarch Creek Tribal Members that gave us their trust, welcomed us into their homes, and allowed us to tell their story.” The Poarch Band of Creek Indians is the only federally recognized tribe in Alabama.
32 Powerful and Influential Alabamians to know
It’s true, the words “powerful and influential” can be vague and subjective. However, it’s fair to say among the universally accepted definitions within politics and policy is an individual’s ability to create change, start a conversation, influence the public or public officials, move an agenda forward or stop one in its tracks. There’s no doubt that a good number of people are moving Alabama forward in politics and business. Recently, Yellowhammer published its 2021 annual list of who they consider the most influential and powerful. They noted it was a “Peek behind the curtain.” That it always is – a peek into the mind of the editorial team, writers, and friends of the site. With the same people on it year after year, often in the same companies and offices and the standard members of the legislature and statewide offices. Dozens of whom certainly would belong on any list of power or influence: Jo Bonner, Katie Britt, Bob Geddie, Dax Swatek. No one can deny the influence any of them have. Others on the list begged the question “Why?” while others were glaringly missing. This list purposely does not duplicate any name already appearing on that list. Not all influencers within the public arena are lobbyists or lawmakers. Some within the media or in advocacy organizations can shape or change public opinion. In addition, some influencers have the ability to position themselves, loved ones, or friends to the front of the line for coveted appointments or jobs. There’s so much to power and influence; while it may hard to describe, you know when you see it, and you know who lacks it. It could be argued that 1-5 are no brainers and would be list repeats, but heck, I say repeat them until it changes. So with that, let Alabama Today offer 32 additional notable people who were nominated by a ragtag group of incredibly biased judges. Did I mention how incredibly biased we are? This, combined with the YH list, might give one a better view of the movers and shakers with power and influence in the state’s political world. Worth noting, some of them are the bosses, mentors, elders statesman, and wise counsel of many on the YH list, while a couple of others are up and comers. Jimmy “Yellow Fella” Rane, President/CEO at Great Southern Wood Preserving Not only is the Yellow Fella the wealthiest man in Alabama and Board of Trustee at Auburn, but there’s also no doubt he’s used his financial success to the betterment of the state, giving him great power and influence. His contributions are well documented, politically, economically, and through philanthropy. From 2013 to May 2021, his company has given 178 contributions totaling $2,079,316.40. He also has the Jimmy Rane Foundation, which has more than doubled his political donations with $4.7 million in scholarships. His influence is undeniable and unmatched, which is why he is number one on our list. Mark Crosswhite, CEO Alabama Power Crosswhite’s voice carries a lot of weight, so much so that multiple people on the YH list answer to him in one way or another. Which begs the question, how can anyone deny his place on any list of power and influence? He chaired the BCA board during a critical time when the organization’s future was in peril, saving a key organization critical to the state’s business development, growth and success, and ensuring a better economic future for the state. As the organization continues to grow and evolve, there’s no doubt he’s still helping steer the ship. 3. Fess St. John IV, Chancellor of The University of Alabama System Finis “Fess” St. John IV comes from a storied line of Alabama influencers, including his father and grandfather. He’s currently the Chancellor of The University of Alabama (UA) System. Which makes him the chief executive officer of Alabama’s largest employer with multiple school campuses and a massive healthcare system. According to the school’s website, “Total enrollment in the UA System achieved a new record this fall, with more than 70,400 students enrolled at UA, UAB, and UAH. The System’s annual economic impact surpasses $10 billion annually, and upwards of 1.7 million patients are served every year in the System’s hospitals and clinics.” 4. Chris England, House of Representatives, District 70 While many have tried over the last couple of decades, England was able to stop the further deterioration of the Democrat party (with a reputation that was nationally marred by chaos, a lack of structure, oh, and that one toilet story) and begin its rebuilding. One long-time democrat described the infrastructure as stronger now than it has been since the days of Bill Baxley. England is a graduate of Howard University and the University of Alabama School of Law. His father grew up in Circuit Court Judge John H. England Jr., who served as a justice on the Alabama Supreme Court in 1999-2000. To leave him off the Top 5 of any influential list is to deny reality. 5. Stephanie Bryan, Tribal Chair and CEO for the Poarch Creek Indians No one should question the top female on this list. It’s no coincidence that she heads one of the biggest political powerhouses in the state of Alabama. PCI has capitalized on the shift in public attitudes towards a more tolerant attitude towards gaming and lottery to push for changes in the law that would allow their tribe’s operations to grow. This session’s gaming proposal wasn’t successful, but it got further than expected and may come up again in a special session. She is a political player that many say could be the most powerful over the next couple of campaign cycles. 6. Tom Coker, The Southern Group Rare can someone survive with the longevity and respectability of Tom Coker. His strength is the state senate, but he can get things done. His firm’s website names him as President of Tom Coker & Associates since 1982. Tom Coker offers a full range of governmental
BCA announces new board member and chairman
The Business Council of Alabama (BCA) has announced its 2021 board of directors, including a new chairman. The BCA is a non-partisan, statewide business association representing the interests and concerns of nearly 1 million working Alabamians through its member companies and its partnership with the Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama. The BCA board of directors includes leaders from across the state. BCA President and CEO Katie Boyd Britt stated, “We again have gathered an incredible group of professionals to serve as our 2021 board of directors. Every member serves an important role and brings together diverse professional experience on issues important to Alabama business,” commented Britt. “The board plays an instrumental part in BCA’s ability to achieve the goals of growing the state’s economy, creating jobs, and encouraging investment in Alabama. I am excited to work with and learn from them as we all navigate through the new year.” Stephanie A. Bryan, the Poarch Band of Creek Indians Chairwoman & CEO, has been selected to serve on the Board of Directors. In her role as CEO of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, Bryan oversees all Tribal operations including Tribal Government, Creek Indian Enterprises Development Authority (CIEDA), and PCI Gaming Authority (PCIGA). Bryan has been a lifelong member of the tribe and advocates for her tribe on a local and national level. Gary Smith, who currently serves as President and CEO of PowerSouth Energy Cooperative was elected to serve as chairman of the board, succeeding John Mazyck. Smith has had other leadership roles with BCA including chairman of ProgressPAC. He graduated from the University of North Alabama and Samford University’s Cumberland School of Law. Smith also serves on the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama Board, Alabama Rural Electric Association Cooperatives Board, University of North Alabama Board, and the Southern Independent Bank Board, and others. Britt stated, “Gary Smith has been a valuable partner of BCA for years and has contributed so much already through his involvement. His strong leadership has positively impacted BCA and ProgressPAC in innumerable ways, and I look forward to working alongside him as he continues to work on behalf of the Alabama business community.” “I am honored to serve as BCA’s next chairman. It’s a privilege to be a part of this organization and the board serving the businesses of Alabama,” stated Gary Smith. “I am grateful to John for the countless contributions he made throughout his time as chairman. BCA has continued to succeed in part because of his leadership. I anticipate great things for the future of this organization.” Upon the nomination, Stephanie Bryan stated, “I am honored to serve on BCA’s Board. The Tribe shares BCA’s priority of creating jobs for hardworking Alabamians, and I’m excited for this opportunity. I want to thank Katie Boyd Britt, Gary Smith, and all who were involved in this decision.” Gary Smith praised Bryan, stating, “We are deeply appreciative of Stephanie’s leadership and willingness to serve in this important role. The Poarch Band of Creek Indians have a great track record of creating jobs and giving back to communities across our state, and BCA looks forward to having Stephanie’s valuable voice at the table.” For a full list of the BCA board of directors, visit bcatoday.org.
PCI Chairwoman Stephanie Bryan congratulates Deb Haaland for historic Dept. of Interior nomination
Stephanie Bryan, Poarch Band of Creek Indians Chairwoman, congratulated Representative Deb Haaland on her historic nomination by President-Elect Joe Biden to serve as the Secretary of the Department of the Interior. The Department of Interior has jurisdiction over a wide variety of government programs, including the Bureau of Indian Affairs. She will become the first Native American to lead the powerful federal agency. Haaland, 60, is a member of the Pueblo of Laguna tribe and lives in New Mexico. Haaland has represented New Mexico’s First Congressional District since 2018. She was one of two Native American women to be elected that year, making her one of the first Native American women to serve in Congress. Prior to this nomination, the Bureau of Indian Affairs has been run by non-Native officials, mostly male. For generations, the department worked to take control of Native American land, and attempted to assimilate them into white culture, Associated Press reported. Bryan stated, “My friend Deb has been a great advocate for Tribes during her time in the House of Representatives, and for that I want to thank her. It has been a pleasure to get to know her and see her passion for tribal priorities, and the Poarch Creek Indians have no doubt she will ably lead the Interior Department.” The Poarch Band of Creek Indians is the only federally recognized tribe in Alabama. They operate as a sovereign nation with their own system of government and bylaws. The Poarch Creek Indians are descendants of a segment of the original Creek Nation that once covered almost all of Alabama and Georgia. The Poarch Creeks were not removed from their tribal lands and have lived together for almost 200 years in and around the reservation in Poarch, Alabama.
Las Vegas Sands sells casino to Wind Creek Hospitality for $1.3 billion
Las Vegas Sands Corp. is selling its Pennsylvania casino to an American Indian tribe from Alabama for $1.3 billion, the company announced Thursday. Sands Casino Resort Bethlehem opened in 2009 on the site of Bethlehem Steel’s former headquarters plant, transforming what was then the nation’s largest abandoned industrial complex into an $800 million destination that lured gamblers from New York and New Jersey. Sands later added a shopping mall, performing arts venue and 300-room hotel. “Sands Bethlehem has become one of the leading regional entertainment and gaming destinations in the United States and we are extremely proud of the positive contributions the property has made for Bethlehem … and eastern Pennsylvania,” Sheldon Adelson, the billionaire mogul who leads Sands, said in a statement. Though it raked in nearly $550 million from slot machines and table games last year — second among Pennsylvania’s 12 casinos — the casino is the smallest in Sands’ portfolio, which includes The Venetian in Las Vegas and resorts in Macau and Singapore. Sands, which had long been rumored to be seeking a buyer for Bethlehem, did not immediately reveal what it planned to do with the proceeds but said the sale would “enhance liquidity as Sands pursues new development opportunities and returns capital to shareholders.” The buyer is Wind Creek Hospitality, an affiliate of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, whose properties include casinos in Alabama and the Caribbean, a greyhound track in Alabama and poker rooms in Florida. Stephanie Bryan, tribal chair and CEO of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, said the purchase will help “secure a long and prosperous future for our tribe.” The deal requires approval from Pennsylvania gambling regulators, a process that could take a year. Sands Bethlehem President Brian Carr said the pending sale would have no impact on casino operations. Republished with the permission of the Associated Press.
