Pictured above: Beeda representing her John heritage.

Born on April 26th, 1952, at the Gowanda TriCounty Memorial Hospital to Eugene Lawrence John Sr. and Elizabeth Jean Williams, Janet Lynn John (Seneca, Beaver clan), was the first of her siblings to be born in Gowanda. Her older two siblings, Bonnie and Randy were born in Salamanca as their father was from the Allegany territory. Then came siblings Edmund, Ross, Eugene jr., Beverly, Ann, and Lisa. When Janet was born her mother tried getting Randy, who was 2 at the time, to call Janet “beautiful baby”, but with the annunciation skills of- well, a 2-year-old “beautiful baby” became “Beeda”. Janet has been called Beeda ever since.

Growing up, Beeda first attended the Thomas Indian School (T.I.S.) in kindergarten before transferring to the Gowanda school system. Beeda was very mischievous, identifying herself as a troublemaker and a fighter back in her early days. She did not enjoy school and found herself only attending because she wanted to ride the school bus. She did, however, enjoy sports. Growing up in a large family meant she had a team for every sport such as basketball, football, and her favorite- softball. She even met her late husband, Barry Parker (Wolf clan) through sports. He was playing basketball at the community center and Beeda, always the mischievous one, began lying about her age as he was 12 years older. She would skip her photo in the yearbook so he couldn’t see that and soon enough they were raising a family together. Beeda was 18 when she gave birth to her son Lance and 16 months later came Daughter Edie (Edith).

Sports played a huge role within the Parker family. Beeda recalled how her husband, Barry loved golf. Barry also served on several Nation committees and played football, but golf was HIS thing. Beeda laughed as she shared how he wanted to change their wedding vows to “Love, honor, and never interfere with his golf”. Lance took longer to find a love in sports but eventually got involved in track, lacrosse and football, while Edie was always a cheerleader. Beeda described how Lance took after his father in that he was very studious while Edie was very much like herself- mischievous and spunky. Beeda would continue to play softball throughout her adult years playing by the lake of Evangola, State Park. Her brothers and Butch Jimerson acted as coaches and the team would go and play against other territories. Even Beeda’s grandson’s- Robert II and Vincent would inherit a love for sports, taking up basketball and lacrosse.

Church also played a major role in Beeda’s and her family’s lives. She recalled how her mother and Ethel Bray were very instrumental in the Gowanda community’s church upbringing. Furthermore, when she went to visit her grandfather, she would attend both Longhouse in Coldspring and the Presbyterian Church at Redhouse. She recalled him pulling over after she was complaining on the ride to church that she preferred longhouse. He told Beeda that he takes them to Longhouse as that is their culture, but he also takes them to church because “you need both”. Beeda emphasized the impact her grandfather had on her life how he taught her to be strong and tough, and importantly how to save money. She accredited his teachings for her climb up the secretarial ladder and ability to advocate for her rights as an employee. All of which led to her proudest accomplishments of saving enough money to build a home after 10 years of hard work and to get the Four Corners Methodist Church painted a heavenly blue later in her life.

She is reminded of her hard-earned accomplishment at every service and on every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month during the Seneca Hymn Singers practice. The Seneca Hymn singers have existed for generations with members singing traditional church songs in Onöndowa’ga:’ Gawënö’ [Seneca Voice]. The Seneca Hymn singers primarily sing at funerals but also will sing at memorials and special events. Those who have heard the Seneca Hymn Singers sing have expressed great appreciation for the singers. The Seneca Hymn Singers are always in need of more members, welcoming people of all ages and dominations. Walk-ins are welcome to their practice 7-8 pm on every 2nd and 4th Tuesday at the Four Corners Methodist Church.

In concluding her interview Beeda shared the following quote:

“But once I shall pass through this world but once. Any good therefore that I can do or any kindness that I can show to any human being, let me do it now, Let me not defer or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again.”- Anonymous

Beeda takes this quote to heart living her life full of appreciations and even stopped playing cards to dissipate some of her fiery temper and hard feelings against others. She admires how she can see the humor in everything and how others know they can rely on her. Beeda often thinks about her love for her grandsons and her pride in her kids. Finally, she wishes to offer herself out as a grandmother for anyone who may need one.

Nya:wëh Beeda for sharing your story and laughter with us!

The post OCC Elder Spotlight: Janet Parker appeared first on SNI Official Newsletter.

A heatwave is when extremely hot weather in a particular region can last for two or more days.  In addition, the temperatures have to be measured beyond the historical averages for that specific area.  Due to climate change, heatweaves can affect the human body and even cause death in some cases.

Drink an adequate amount of water:

You will sweat more in hot weather as a mechanism to cool your body off.  So, it is essential to refuel the fluids you’ve lost inside your body by drinking water.  It is much better to bring a water bottle to avoid dehydration as you go outside for any activities.

Better to stay inside through the hottest time of the day:

If there is no necessary outdoor activity or event, limiting the time of sunlight exposure and staying inside the building during the hottest part of the day is safer.  Being physically active outdoors during extreme heat can lead to heat exhaustion.

It is recommended to wear loose-fitting and light-colored clothing:

Wearing proper clothing for excessive heat weather will make a massive distinction in how your body feels and how you feel comfortable during the day.  Moreover, loose-fitting clothing accelerates air circulation, and light-colored clothing will reflect light and heat.  As a result, these will keep your body more relaxed and comfortable.

The following locations will serve as designated cooling centers:

• Allegany Community Center
• Cattaraugus Community Center
• AOA Elders Centers: Allegany AOA: 716-945-8414  |  Cattaraugus AOA: 716-532-5777

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The Code also imposes penalties -ranging from loss of direct benefits to community service, restitution, or restorative justice on offenders to deter future mistreatment of our elders while also healing family and community connections. The AOA and Elder Advisory Board works with the Crime Victim Services Department in order to effectively implement and enforce the Code.

Nya:wëh to the Council Office for sponsoring today’s flag raising event, and to our honorary Elders Elliott Tallchief and Dennis Bowen for raising the flag. Happy birthday, Dennis!

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On Tuesday, June 24, 2025, the Seneca Nation hosted the 2025 Lake Shore Eagles Girls & Boys Lacrosse Recognition Night at the Cattaraugus Community-Center. The Lady Eagles are the Section VI Class C Champions, while the Boys hold the Section VI Class B Champions title.

Coach Lindsay John presented her awards as follows:

Coach’s Award – Aquinnah “Quin” Maybee. Sportsmanship Award – Kate Kennedy. M.V.P. – Kaiyah Johnes. Scholar Athlete Awards – Kate Kennedy, Kyrie Buffalo. Gracie Williams – St. Bonaventure Lacrosse.

Coach Adrian John presented his awards as follows:

Coach’s Award – Simon White. Defensive Player of the Year – Caias John, Nate Smith. Offensive Player of the Year – with 80 points: Brody Himelein. Unsung Hero Award – Avery Klimowicz. Most Improved Award – Kaysen John. Sportsmanship Awards – Asa Thompson, Cole Hart, Kaysen John, Kade Nephew, Frank Kettle, Avery Klimowicz, Damien Warrior.

WNY Section VI 1st Team, First Team Class B, All WNY (2x), and 2nd year in a row M.V.P. with 700 saves – Damien Warrior! Damien is ranked #1 the Best Goalie in WNY.

The Lady Eagles have three (3) Title Championships and the Boys have four (4) Section C and one (1) Section B championship. The Boys are ranked #13 in Section B, out of 83 teams in New York State. They also went four (4) years undefeated.

The post Ja:göh Lake Shore Girls and Boys Lacrosse Teams! appeared first on SNI Official Newsletter.

In collaboration with the Buffalo Maritime Center, join us on July 8 for a free paddling and safety workshop on the Allegany River.

Space is limited. Use the link below to register.

Register HERE!

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Coming soon!!! Calling all boys and girls, if interested in playing flag football please call the ACC front desk to sign up (716) 945-8119.

Who wants to play some sand volleyball?

Anyone 13 to 17 years old this is for you! Call the ACC (716) 945-8119.

See flyers below for details:

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The Cattaraugus Education Department held their Annual High School Graduation Banquet at the Seneca Firehall

Nya:wëh to the Council, Clerk, and Executive Offices, and everyone else involved for always supporting this important day for our future leaders. We wish them all the best as they start new chapters in their journeys!

The Allegany Education Banquet took place at Yodeler Lodge in Ellicottville

Students were treated to gifts and a dinner, with academic achievement awards and scholarships presented to a number of graduates. Nya:wëh to the Education Department, as well as the Council, Treasurer, and President’s Offices for sponsoring this exciting event. Good luck to the grads, and we wish you well as you move forward in your journey!

Congrats to the Silver Creek Central School District’s Class of 2025!

The Seneca Nation is proud of you and wishes you well in your future endeavors! Ja:goh to all of the Indigenous graduates!

• Ella Austin
• Jesse Bomberry
• James Golden III
• Trenton Logan
• Ryder Luke
• Harlan White
• Simon White
• Gracie Williams

Congratulations to the Lake Shore Class of 2025

In September of 2024, Lake Shore School District welcomed 22 Indigenous students into their Senior year. In June 2025, all 22 of those students walked the stage on Graduation Day! This was the first class at Lake Shore to celebrate the monumental 100% graduation rate for Indigenous students. The Seneca Nation is proud of you and wishes you well. Ja:göh!

• Keegun Thomas Belisle
• Jordan Phillip Cooke Jr.
• Stanley Hector Francis
• Kiowa Eli-Edward Haynes
• Alexis Jenna Hummel
• Travis Tome Jimerson
• Kaivin Charles Jones
• Franklin Edgar Parker Kettle
• Hazel Moon Lyle
• Aquinnah Faith Maybee
• Jarren Maxwell Parry
• Shilo John Pierce
• Marcellus Julian Plain
• Daniel Joe Ramirez Jr.
• Stevieana Belle Seneca
• Shaun Elizabeth Serio
• Lailee Louise Snyder
• Koy Stevens
• Thomas Thompson III
• Jack Cyrus Thompson
• Damien Tremain Raymond Warrior
• Maston Jay Waterman

Congratulations to the Salamanca City Central School District Class of 2025 graduates!

We wish you all the luck and success in your futures, and we are so proud of you!
Ja:göh to our Indigenous graduates:

• Avery Brown
• Lehman Brown
• Moagi Buffalo
• Abby Chaparro
• Adam Clark
• Ava Crane
• Aubrey Domres
• Skyla Dowdy
• Laci Evans
• Arianna George-Shongo
• Emmalee Ground
• Maddox Issac
• Allison Jimerson
• Alyce Jimerson
• Darry Jimerson
• Zac Jimerson
• Lauren John
• Vann John
• Colleen Johnny-John
• Warrick Kyler
• Kyle Lecceardone
• Deaja Martinez
• Marcus Mason
• Maylina Massagli
• Sachem Maybee
• Izabella Milks
• Abigail Murphy
• Kailyne Pierce
• Ulysses Printup
• Dayanna Silverheels
• Abagayle Skeels
• Serenity Snow
• Chloe Stanczykowski
• Trinity Stevens
• Mikaela Tennity
• Samuel Victor
• Kaya Yarbour

Congratulations to the Gowanda Central School District Class of 2025 Graduates!

The Seneca Nation wishes you all the best in your future endeavors! Ja:göh to all the Indigenous graduates:

• Hannah Valentine – #8 Top 10
• Marissa Beaver
• Kaylee Bouquin
• Logan Cooper
• Violet Doctor
• Cole Gabel
• Alyssa Golden
• Elizabeth Green
• Jeremy Henhawk
• Honey Huff
• Seneka Jackson
• Howie Jimerson
• Karice John
• Madden Lay
• Ellarose LeBeau
• Shia Lindgren
• Seneca Mohawk Jr.
• Gawiyënta’ “Kierra” Moses
• Winter Rivera
• Lily Scanlan
• Keaton Seneca
• Ethan Steeprock
• Ha’tsihgahdo:d “Everett” Stevens
• Jessup Stevens
• Landon White
• Bruce Williams
• Rhianna Woods

HEAD START & PRE-K GRADUATION 2025

SALC 2025 Preschool Graduates – Allegany Territory

Last month, the Seneca Arts & Learning Center celebrated its 2025 Preschool graduates! These little graduates did an amazing job all school year! They celebrated with singing songs, including the Nya:wëh Sgë:nö song! Each of them received a diploma and received a big round of applause from their families! They’re off to Kindergarten! Congrats to all the preschool graduates & families, teachers & staff!

ECLC Pre-K Graduation – Cattaraugus Territory

The Early Childhood Learning Center held its Pre-K Graduation at Seneca Fire on Wednesday, June 25th. The graduates celebrated their special day with singing and social dancing. Each student received a certificate and enjoyed the evening together with their family. We know they’re going to do great in Kindergarten! Nya:wëh to all the families, teachers, and staff!

ECLC Head Start Graduation – Cattaraugus Territory

On Tuesday, June 24th the Early Childhood Learning Center held their Head Start Graduation at Seneca Fire. It was an amazing night full of smiles and great memories. They celebrated by singing songs and social dancing. Each child received a diploma and a huge round of applause from their families. Thank you to all the families, teachers and staff that helped to make this night a special one.

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Families and friends gathered Saturday, July 5th in the Town of Caneadea, Gaoyadeo, “where the heavens rest upon the earth” at the 3rd Annual Seneca Caneadea Field Day held on ancestral Seneca lands. A special thank you to Councillors Christian Reiller, Todd Gates, and Tina Abrams for attending and participating in the event; Mary Jacobs for coordinating the exceptional array of vendors; and to the Seneca-Caneadea Field Day planning group for your dedication to this thriving event. Also, a thank you to Visit Seneca Nation, as well as Town of Caneadea New York, and Houghton University.

The post 3rd Annual Seneca Caneadea Field Day appeared first on SNI Official Newsletter.

Stop down to your local Seneca Strong office and check out their upcoming events. They also offer a variety of support groups. See info & flyers below for more information.

• Aura Cleanse: Fridays from 10am-12pm – Allegany Office
• Big Book Group Alcoholics Anonymous: Every Wednesday from 11am-12pm – Allegany Office
• Family & Loved Ones Support Group: Every Tuesday Starting July 15th from 6-7pm – ACC
• Family Peer Support Services Offered: Check out the flyer below
• Grief Support For Parents: Contact 716-945-8413 for more information
• Men’s Talking Circle: Every Thursday from 11am-12pm – Allegany Office
• Movement for Recovery: Tuesdays & Thursday from 2-3:30pm – Allegany Office
• Paint Night: Wednesday, July 16th from 5:30-7:30pm – Allegany Office
• REBT Skills Group: Thursdays from 1-2pm – Allegany Office
• Red Road to Wellbriety Book Study: Every Tuesday from 11am-12pm – Allegany Office

Allegany Office: 983 RC Hoag Dr., Salamanca, NY 14779 | Phone: 716-945-8413

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