She is quite the escape artist, though she is too chicken to leave the driveway when she gets outside. Her absolute favorite things to do are bite feet and nap on her heated blanket in the winter. For dislikes, she has no love for bugs or canned wet food.

Nya:wëh Xanthe John for submitting Jillian!

Oscar Jimerson, Cattaraugus Territory
Meet Oscar, a lively four-year-old Peek-a-Pom who is proud to call Newtown home. He is a happy boy who stays quite busy with all of his favorite outdoor adventures. Oscar loves going for rides, spending time down at the crick, and chasing after four-wheelers.

He loves playing fetch with anyone and everyone who will play with him! To top it all off, he is a big fan of catching sky raisins whenever he gets the chance.

Nya:wëh Delores Jimerson for entering Oscar!

Allegany and Cattaraugus will have a “Rez Pet of the Month” each month. Submit yours to either Alyssa Coustenis – Allegany Reporter or Norah Stevens – Cattaraugus Reporter @ Alyssa.Coustenis@sni.org or NStevens@sni.org. Feel free to drop by the offices if assistance is needed. Please be sure to include a photo, and pet location along with a brief bio on your pet. We look forward to hearing about all our wonderful Rez Pets.

The post June 2026 Rez Pets of the Month! appeared first on SNI Official Newsletter.

Nya:wëh to all who joined us for Heritage Day 2026 here at the Onöhsagwë:de’ Cultural Center this past Saturday. Shout out to our awesome team and everyone who made it possible.

Smoke Dance Contest Winners:

Girls (5-12)
First: Kenzley Jimerson
Second: Brynli Bomberry
Third: Yaslin Salés

Boys (5-12)
First: Liam Dowdy
Second: Randon George
Third: Sonnyboy Dowdy

Teen Girls (13-17)
First: Lorenza Dowdy
Second: Lydia Isaac
Third: Saphire Hill

Teen Boys (13-17)
First: Myles Montour
Second: Michael Bovanizer
Third: Kyson George

Adult Women (18+)
First: Eva Dowdy
Second: Valerie Parker
Third: Caye John

Adult Men (18+)
First: Frank Wesaw
Second: Jake George
Third: Gaehnew Printup

Golden Age Women (50+)
First: Lisa Parker
Second: Lynn O’Keefe

Golden Age Men (50+)
First: Alan George

Congrats to the winners and all the dancers that came from near and far.

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In the first general election on Tuesday, May 1st, 1849, on the Cattaraugus Reservation, Solomon W. McLane was named the first President of the Seneca Nation. He would receive 187 votes out of the 307 men from Allegany and Cattaraugus to vote that day. William Jemerson was named Clerk, and Andrew John (Sr.) was named Treasurer.

Born on the Buffalo Creek Reservation and a member of the Turtle Clan. Solomon W. McLane was raised by Chief Young King, an elected war chief and counsellor to the Seneca people. McLane was a schoolteacher, also appointed Superintendent of Schools. As a temperance advocate, he encouraged the Seneca people to abstain from consuming alcohol

McLane was originally drafted into the position of provisional president in December of 1848 after 72 votes and a council session that declared to abolish the council of chiefs. Creating an elective government.

The Declaration stated: “we, the people of the Seneca Nation of Indians, by virtue of the right inherent in every people, trusting in the justice and necessity of our undertaking, and humbly invoking the blessing of the God of Nations upon our efforts to improve our civil condition, and to secure to our nation the administration of equitable and wholesome laws, do hereby abolish, abrogate and annul our form of Government by chiefs, because it has failed to answer the purposes for which all governments should be created.”

Unlike most early Seneca Republic leaders, McLane could read and write. Only a few of his letters and petitions were documented in the Quaker records and U.S National archives. After McLane’s presidency, he became a peacemaker judge, sadly dying soon after. Solomon and his wife Sara Two Guns lived on the Allegany Reservation were members of Asher Wright’s United Missionary Church.

The Seneca Nation observes President’s Day on June 15th, the late Calvin “Kelly” John’s birthday, (b. June 15, 1920 d. October 8, 2004). John served as a four time President for the Nation (1946, 1950, 1966, 1990) as well as Treasurer and Councilor. John’s role as President was pivotal during the 99-year Salamanca Lease Agreement in the early 90’s.

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All SLTSCO staff played a vital role in hosting the 2026 Seneca Language Summit. From coordinating and planning, to presenting and welcoming guests Ja:no’s—Janine Bowen; Director, Taylore Swain; Language Reclamation Coordinator, Gayë’jöh—Sherisse John; Online Learning Specialist, Niya’sgë:ö’— James Crane; Digital Media and Website Developer, and Community Outreach Educators Daëdzö:n—Jordan Ball, Dewata’se:’—Kelsey Lay, Döëdzae’—Vern “Duey” Longboat, Kiersten Kennedy worked together to make this summit a success. SLTSCO held their first summit last year. They chose a summit over a conference to center on problem-solving and networking. The purpose of the Seneca Language Summit is to engage in dialogue, acknowledge collective challenges, build solutions, and network.

Summit participants shared ideas, laughed together, and encouraged one another.

Seneca Nation Official Newsletter staff spoke with Taylore Swain, Language Reclamation Coordinator for (SLTSCO). She was asked why her program initiated the Seneca Language Summit and future goals for the program.

Taylore: The reason we have the summit is to get Seneca Language learners together, because many programs are scattered across multiple departments, buildings, and territories. Overall, we’re all here to learn the Seneca language and teach the language. We want the language out in the community, so we all have a role in carrying it on to next generation. It’s important to gather and get together. Many language-based programs have similar ambitions, but need to come together to plan, execute and share ideas based on curriculum, activities, and community involvement. Our goal is to help our learners and speakers who are already in Seneca Language programs.

I am pleasantly surprised by how many people came! I can’t believe so many people made the commitment to come share and learn Seneca language. I hope that next year we can get more community members involved. I know it’s intimidating, but this is for everyone. We had a Seneca language only room for advanced proficient speakers along with sessions that relate to beginners or people who don’t know the language. We want their feedback also. We want everyone’s feedback so that we can help our community learn.

Although it can be intimidating, it’s amazing to hear the language. We always aim to provide a welcoming atmosphere. Everyone who has spoken in Seneca here has translated. No one will leave you in the dust, confused or make you feel left out. Resources from all the Seneca Language departments were here on display. You can come here and know where to go, wherever you live and find Seneca language classes and education. Each Seneca Language department listed everything that they offer for all levels of learning. It is a good place to start with resources and education. You must start somewhere, please come and see what our Seneca Language Summit offers next year!

I’m still learning and picking up the language and I’m still very nervous about using it in front of everybody. I want to focus on using more Seneca language in front of everyone for next year, that’s my personal goal.

Why did you attend the 2026 Seneca Language Summit?

Jacky Snyder: I came today hoping to inspire somebody. We need Seneca Language Teachers in the local school system in Cattaraugus. Lakeshore High School does not have a Seneca Language teacher for grades K-12. Our community is fortunate to have so many people who can speak and it’s important to share the knowledge. It’s been 10 years since the inaugural Seneca Immersion program graduation and new classes have graduated in that time, but we are still short on teachers and instructors for school aged children. What can we do or fix to get Seneca Language learners to teach in school systems and community programs?

Michelle Miller: At after-school recreation at the Allegany Community Center, we have Faith Keeper School students that speak Seneca language regularly. I have one little girl that I’ve told her to not use English with me at all and it helps me use Seneca language more. I’m speaking more at home. It’s just like everybody’s been saying – “just use it!” If it’s a little bit, use what you have. I tell people that all the time, too. I feel like I can get the other 59 kids to start using a little bit or playing games. I wanted to get that fire under me to use, because listening to Damien, listening to everybody, I understand more than I give myself credit.

Seneca language programs and departments represented included: Agwadeyësta’ Do:gë:h, Deadiwënöhsnye’s Gëjóhgwa’, Ëyetinëtšinéhshö’ Immersed Learning Nest, Faithkeepers School, Honötaonih Hënödeyësdahgwa’ , Language Program at the Cattaraugus Education Department, Language Program at the Early Childhood Learning Center, Language Program at the Seneca Arts and Learning Center, Seneca Language Teacher Support and Community Outreach, and the Stanley Huff Heritage Center.

SLTSCO Resources:
Here is an app for learning useful words and phrases in the Seneca language (Onöndowa’ga:’ gawë:nö’)! Spread the word! Speakers and teachers, please contact James (Jimmy) Crane or Ja:no’s Bowen if you notice any errors. We will compile items needed for a future update.

For iPhones and iPads, look for Speak Seneca in the App Store:
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/speak-seneca/id1573140911

Android devices link HERE!
Kindle devices link HERE!

For more information visit https://senecalanguage.com/.

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The Seneca Nation Department of Education Cattaraugus announces its participation in the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP).

Meals will be provided to all children 18 years and under without charge that are enrolled in the program.

Children participating in the following programs will be provided free meals:

Begin Date: July 6, 2026 Monday – Thursday

End Date: August 6, 2026 Monday – Thursday

Meals Available:
Breakfast: 8:00am-9:15am
Lunch: 11:15am –1:00pm

Involvement in the SFSP will result in healthier and more cost effective food service for the students in the summer enrichment program and the Education Department.

Persons interested in receiving more information should contact:
SNI Education Department
716) 532-3341
2016 Hënödeyësta Drive Suite 2 Irving, NY 14081

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Stay tuned for more Rez Pet Program events in the future!

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Nya:wëh to everyone who joined us at Highbanks for the Disc Golf course ribbon cutting! We’re thrilled to add this exciting feature to your camping experience.

The 18-hole course, designed by professional disc golfer and course designer Avery Jenkins (http://www.averyjenkins.net/) and his company, Discmania, with support from the Seneca Nation Planning Office and many others, broke ground in January 2024. Nearly 100 people attended a preview event in November 2025, featuring the NCAA/Twin Tiers Disc Golf regional qualifying tournament, where colleges from across the states competed.

“There were months, weeks, days, and even last-minute efforts spent making this course as beautiful as possible and upholding the professional standards people expect at Highbanks,” said Judy Farmer, Highbanks Director. “We would like to thank the Seneca Nation TERC Department and SNI DPW, who greatly assisted Highbanks with the construction of the Disc Golf Course, pro golfer Avery Jenkins and his company, Discmania,” said Councillor Tina Abrams at last Friday’s ribbon cutting. “But most of all, a big nya:wëh (thank you) to Judy Farmer, Justin Reiller, and all the staff at Highbanks who worked diligently to bring a new, fun outdoor activity to Highbanks.”

Also unveiled at the ceremony was the newest Tiny House, now available for campers. Built in 2016 by the Training Center led by Larry Kesner, the house was remodeled in 2023 and officially named “Lake House” at the suggestion of the TERC department—combining “La” from Larry and “Ke” from Kesner.
Larry not only helped design and build the tiny house but also renovated it years later. “We wanted to recognize Larry for all that he has done,” added Farmer. The house will be available for rental this summer with a 2-night minimum requirement. Visit our website to make a reservation. Visitors can use the course for a $5 fee. For details, go to camphighbanks.com.

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Awards

• The Peter Doctor Memorial Award presented to Emerson Ortego.
• Iroquois Post 1587 American Legion Award presented by Ron L. Cook, Jr. and Kathryn Button awarded to Waylon Dowdy, Delsin Tallchief, Shayanna Johnny-John, and Kyla Scott.
• The Lehman “Dar” Dowdy and Kyle Dowdy Sr. Awards, presented by Inez Gilson, awarded to Jorja Miller and Makenzie Crouse (respectively).
• The Andrew John Scholarship award, presented by Nancy Williams, awarded to Leilene McComber.
• The Leland John Sr. and Ralph Bowen Marshal Award, presented by Don John, Dave Isaac, and Becky Bowen, awarded to Hadleigh Krug and Kalyn Crowley (respectively).
• Charli Ross was awarded for Excellence in Academics.
• Vililly Solat was recognized for her Leadership and Perseverance.

Congratulations to all of the Grads!

View more photos here: https://sni.org/education/education-department/

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The Commercial Mortgage Fund: The Commercial Mortgage Fund is intended to allow our members to purchase, renovate and lever age commercial property on the Seneca Nation Territories. Eligible borrowers are Enrolled members of the Seneca Nation of Indians, corporations, partnerships, and joint ventures in which enrolled members own a majority of the ownership interest and are active in the conduct of business.

How can you use the Commercial Mortgage Loan?
Use your loan to purchase land, acquire commercial real estate, finance new construction projects, or renovate and improve existing commercial properties.

Loan Limit: Minimum: $75,000, Maximum: $375,000.
Fixed interest rate: Minimum 5%, Maximum 9%
Term of repayment: Up to 20 years. *Subject to change based on Prime Rate.

Why work with SNIEDC? Seneca Nation of Indians Economic Development Company (SNIEDC) is a Native, Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI). We thrive to support community development. SNIEDC provides opportunities for eligible enrolled tribal member(s) on Seneca Territory. Call (716) 945-7148 or email info@sniedc.org to learn more!

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