YAVAPAI-PRESCOTT INDIAN TRIBE TO CELEBRATE

68 YEARS AS SOVEREIGN NATION

PRESCOTT, Ariz. (June 3, 2003) -- On Friday, June 6, 2003, the Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe will celebrate Sovereignty Day, an event that will mark its 68 years as a sovereign nation. The United States federal government recognized the Tribe’s sovereignty on June 7, 1935. As part of the festivities on the Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe reservation, a ceremony and luncheon will be held at the Reservation’s Community Gathering Center.

The Fort McDowell Veteran’s Association will hold a flag raising, featuring two flags. The new tribal flag, recently adopted by the Tribe, and a U.S. flag that once flew over the U.S. Capitol, which was presented to the tribe by Senator John McCain.

President Ernie Jones, Sr., will address the audience. Tribal member Grace Sparks, who recently passed away, will be honored for her many contributions to the tribe. Members of her family will also attend. In addition, singer Harry Walker of the Fort McDowell Veteran’s Association will perform.