The Seminoles Rock On

On Pearl Harbor Day (December 7), the Seminole Tribe of Florida announced its acquistion of Hard Rock International, Inc. and related enterprises (Hard Rock Cafe, etc.) for just under one billion dollars. The official closing, according to mutliple news sources, is set for March 2007.

I've admired the Seminoles for many years, having studied the Second Seminole War (1835-1842) with particular fascination. The Seminoles were originally an amalgamation of various groups, but by the time the U.S. invaded Florida, they fought in common for a common purpose -- liberty, land, and their way of life. The Seminoles' defense against heavy odds was remarkable for its tenacity, resilience, and effective use of guerilla warfare. It's noteworthy that a substantial number of runaway slaves joined them (known alternately as "Black Seminoles" and Freedom Bands).

Eventually, some Seminole bands relocated under treaty to Oklahoma -- they are now officially known as the Seminole Nation of Oklahoma; others remained permanently in Florida -- their descendants are officially named the Seminole Tribe of Florida and the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida.

Today, the Seminoles operate a number of highly lucrative casinos and other enterprises. The purchase of Hard Rock Cafe will add some 124 restaurants worldwide, with 44 of them in the USA (including one in Detroit) and 17 in Europe.

Two of the primary Seminole Tribe of Florida movers and shakers for this deal are Tribal Chairman Mitchell Cypress and Gaming Chief Executive Officer James Allen. They are building upon great success in Florida operating local Hard Rock hotels and casinos, including one in Hollywood.

Hard Rock Cafes seemed very hip at first, then eventually seemed a bit tired and worn out. With the Seminole purchase, things will be interesting -- and hip -- again. The Florida State Seminoles are one thing, but this is the real deal. Now if only they can acquire Disney
World . . . . .

Today's Rune: The Blank Rune.

Akvsv'mkv! Henka!