Osage News Gift Guide Page 8

Volume 16, Issue 1 • January 2020

festivities for Oklahoma’s new governor Kevin Stitt. Both the Osage Language Immer- sion School and youth with the Osage Ballet were among groups on the agenda for the 2 019 Scissortail Children’s Festival Year in Review at the Oklahoma Aquarium.

Osage family grateful for out- rights in the county. The nego- pouring of support in wake of tiations, expected to take up to devastating house fire two to three years, have been OJ and Caron Littlecook conducted in meetings be- entered the Osage Nation Po- tween Principal Chief Geoffrey Standing Bear and his legal lice Department the morning team and Oklahoma Attorney of Dec. 20 hand-in-hand after General Mike Hunter and his they had suffered a devasting legal team. Standing Bear said house fire. They were there the two entities have been to pick up a free refurbished meeting almost monthly since Dell computer from the North late 2017. JANUARY Pole Computer Project which SCOTUS declines to hear SCOTUS to consider Osage gives computers to families Osage Wind case Wind case on Jan. 4 at Christmas. They were one of seven families to receive a WASHINGTON — The U.S. The U.S. Supreme Court Supreme Court will not hear computer from the ONPD. started 2019 by weighing arguments in Osage Wind whether to take up an appeal LLC vs. Osage Minerals Coun- tied to a controversial Osage FEBRUARY cil, thus setting the stage for County wind farm project. Rencountre makes history as the tribe to potentially collect he wins his first UFC match in damages from a controversial MARCH Brooklyn Second Osage language app energy project. Osage Casinos host first Chance Rencountre has ‘Sonny Goes to School’ now concert in new Skyline made history. He is the first Nation continues water rights Osage Language and culture available Event Center Osage, male or female, to win a negotiations with state of highlighted at Scissortail Osage Casinos hosted rock A second Osage language match in the UFC as a profes- Oklahoma Children’s Festival app became available for sional fighter. He does so while The Osage Nation contin- ENKS — Osage language bands Goo Goo Dolls and Bet- download to both Apple and carrying the Osage Nation flag ues its negotiations with the and culture took center stage See Year in Review Android devices. into the UFC Octagon. state of Oklahoma over water as part of the pre-inaugural —Continued on Page 6 Oklahoma tribes stand united and reject Gov. Stitt’s gaming compact extension Lenzy Krehbiel-Burton Osage News

TULSA, Okla. — Calling it unnecessary, Oklahoma’s gaming tribes are officially passing on a compact exten- sion offer from the state. Osage News 2018 File Photo At a joint press conference Michelle Spotted Bear Hyatt was the final Osage to vote in the June Dec. 19 at River Spirit Casi- 4 Osage Nation General Election. That day, 931 Osages voted in-per- no, leaders from 32 Oklahoma son at the ON Museum. tribes publicly rejected a Dec. Screenshot from Governor Kevin Stitt Facebook page 17 proposal from Gov. Kev- Governor Kevin Stitt gives a press conference Dec. 16 about the status of in Stitt to temporarily extend the gaming compact negotiations with Oklahoma’s tribes. Congressional candidate the current gaming compacts through August. and maintains that the cur- Tribal leaders have publicly Gov. Stitt is seeking a high- rent compacts expire on Jan. said otherwise, pointing to lan- 1, thus making Class III filing period starts Feb. 4 er exclusivity fee rate from See Stitt games illegal. Benny Polacca the state’s gaming tribes —Continued on Page 4 Osage News The candidacy filing period for Osages interested in run- Oklahoma’s Secretary of Native ning for the Seventh Osage Nation Congress in the 2020 general election starts Feb. 4. Election Day is the first Monday of each June during elec- American Affairs resigns over tion years, according to the 2006 Osage Constitution. This year’s general election will be held June 1 in Pawhuska. gaming compact dispute Six Congressional seats in the 12-member Legislative Osage News Branch will open in the 2020 election. Each Congressional Lenzy Krehbiel-Burton member’s term of office is four years. Congressional incum- The new health benefit cards is- Osage News bents whose terms are expiring are Joe Tillman, Maria sued by the Osage Nation are blue. OKLAHOMA CITY — Whitehorn, RJ Walker, John Maker, Shannon Edwards and Despite maintaining that Archie Mason. New Health Benefit gaming compacts expire on The Congressional candidate filing period stretches 20 Jan. 1, the state of Oklaho- days and will end at the close of business on March 2, ac- Plan cards ready ma is sending auditors in to cording to ON Election Supervisor Alexis Rencountre. for 2020 calendar review tribal casino books ON government office hours are weekdays from 8 a.m. to come 2020. 4:30 p.m. year enrollment In a letter sent to all of According to the Constitution, enrolled Osages who are at Shannon Shaw Duty Oklahoma’s gaming tribes, least 25 years old on Election Day and who have never been officials with the Office of Osage News convicted of a felony are eligible to run for Congress. Management and Enterprise Aside from felony convictions, other disqualifications in With the new year will come Services announced their the Constitution state: “No member of the Osage Nation intent to audit 2018 gam- new health benefit cards for Congress shall not hold any other office or position of profit ing operations to determine Osage tribal members who under the Osage Nation during the term for which the mem- whether the state has re- Courtesy Photo/Chickasaw Nation have enrolled in the plan. ber is elected or appointed. No member of the Osage Nation ceived all the revenue owed Lisa Billy, Chickasaw Nation, re- After a year of unchecked signed as Gov. Kevin Stitt’s Secre- See Filing —Continued on Page 4 See Card See Billy tary of Native American Affairs on —Continued on Page 4 —Continued on Page 4 Dec. 23.

Inside the Osage News Follow the Osage News Online Big Hill Trading Co. May Get Another Chance...... 2 Culture Column ...... 14 • Breaking news at osagenews.org Nation to Consider Action over TERA Regulations. . . . . 2 Classified...... 16 • facebook.com/osagenews Reese Brothers Update ...... 5 Community...... 17 • twitter.com/osagenews Minerals Council Votes in Favor of Amendments...... 7 Obituaries...... 18 • flickr.com/osagenews 2 January 2020 Osage News • osagenews.org Osage Nation to consider action County Commissioners to after TERA regulations published consider stabilizing Big Hill in Federal Register Lenzy Krehbiel-Burton Instead, both the executive Trading Co. building in Fairfax Osage News branch and the Osage Nation Congress would have that au- Shannon Shaw Duty The final version of the new thority. Osage News Tribal Energy Resource Agree- At the council’s Dec. 18 ment regulations is out and meeting, Principal Chief Geof- Osage County Commis- the Osage Minerals Council is frey Standing Bear advised the sioners have given the Big now on the clock. council that they would need Hill Trading Co. another “The Osage Minerals Coun- to act quickly if interested in chance after impassioned cil is going to have to make pursuing such an agreement pleas from Fairfax residents some decisions about what, in the next fiscal year, which convinced them to reassess if anything, they want to do,” starts on Oct. 1, 2020. the building’s structure. Without opposition, a res- Not all three commission- council attorney Wilson Pipes- tem said. olution was approved to con- ers were leaning toward sav- vene a meeting in January ing the building, District 1 Released in the Dec. 18 edi- tion of the Federal Register, among the Executive Branch, Commissioner Randall Jones the Osage Minerals Council continually expressed his the new TERA regulations lay out parameters for tribes to and the Congress’ Land, Com- concern for the public’s safety merce and Economic Develop- and the liability the commis- pursue self-governance agree- ments for some or all of the ment Committee to discuss the sion would face if someone possibility of pursuing a TERA services associated with ener- were to get hurt – or if the and what that would look like gy development, including oil building were to fall onto the CODY HAMMER/Osage News for the Osage mineral estate. neighboring Fairfax Medical and gas drilling. The south wall of the Big Hill Trading Co. is currently supported by a “We need to know what your Facilities Inc. or the Barnard First approved in 2005, a temporary support wall that’s designed to last six months, but that wishes are so we can prepare Insurance Agency. TERA between a tribe and six months is up and county commissioners are deciding whether to accordingly,” Principal Chief the Department of Interior al- “If someone gets hurt stabilize the building once again or tear it down. Standing Bear said. “This can’t lows a tribe to review, approve whose name is on it? Ours,” be done halfway. This could be said Jones. “Our responsibili- and manage leases, business makers to film in Fairfax? Hill, then the same attention a huge step for the Osage.” ty is to the public.” agreements and rights of way Jones said he heard rumors would have to be paid to oth- Along with new provisions Carol Conner, Fairfax res- for energy development on all filming will take place in er buildings, he said. for biomass projects and hy- ident and Editor of The Fair- tribal land without having to downtown Pawhuska. Con- Kane said there is also an droelectric licenses, the law ex- fax Chief said, “While I don’t go through the Secretary of In- ner said that wasn’t con- outstanding tort claim on the plicitly directs the Department want anyone hurt, rebuilding terior every step of the way. firmed because she had film building after it fell on top of of Interior to provide technical it is going to do more for Fair- Published just hours before crews continuously calling a truck with the owner still support to tribes that are at- fax than a vacant lot.” its regular December meeting, her about possible film loca- inside. McKinney said the tempting to develop energy re- The commissioners asked the council has not made any tions in and around Fairfax. owner of the truck is ask- source development programs. Terry Loftis of Pawhus- decision whether to pursue a ing for damages to be paid It also calls for the expansion ka-based JL & Associates to TERA, in part because the reg- Legalities and his medical bills. Jones of tribal management and contact the structural engi- ulations still do not include a Assistant District Attor- said the commission does planning programs under the neer that made the initial ney Ashley Kane said the not have the money to take definition as to what services Department of Energy. assessment, Rodney Bratch- commissioners had four le- on any more liability for the are ineligible to be taken over If a TERA is signed, the De- er of Tulsa-based StressCon. gal options. Option one was building. by tribes. No definitive timeta- partment of Interior would still The commissioners asked to demolish the building, Loftis said the support ble has been set for when that be responsible for coordinating that the assessment be com- option two was to sell it, op- wall constructed on the south list of inherently federal func- with the tribe regarding main- pleted quickly and that a bar- tion three would be to donate side of the building was made tions will be made available. tenance of real estate records ricade be constructed around it to the town of Fairfax and to last six months and they Citing both the Osage Na- and title status information the building until they con- the fourth option would be to were out of time. He said the tion constitution and a 2015 needed to evaluate property sider the next steps. keep it, and improve or main- southwest corner is the worst Osage Supreme Court ruling, for potential projects or right tain the building. side of the building and his the comments published with of way leases. Additionally, Memorial Darren McKinney, District biggest concern was snow the regulations also explic- the language explicitly states Conner said the communi- 3 Commissioner, said the load on the roof. He said to itly state that the Minerals that the federal government ty would like to see the build- town of Fairfax does not want pay the structural engineer Council does not constitute a must act on TERA applica- ing stabilized and made into the building, but he did not to reassess could cost any- “tribal governing body” and tions within 270 days and its a memorial to the victims of want to see the building torn where from $2,000 to $5,000. would not have unilateral au- trust obligations are not ab- the Osage Reign of Terror. down either. He said the is- The commissioners would thority to change the scope of a solved should a tribe decide to “Honoring the Osage vic- sue of funding would hamper need to move fast if they TERA should one be pursued. pursue a TERA. tims, honoring the birth of their efforts if they were to choose to stabilize the build- the FBI ... it’s your decision,” decide to keep it and improve ing for a memorial. Conner said. it. Conner said there is a pri- District 2 Commissioner Producers and shareholders vate donor interested in the Crimes and greed and board chairman, Kev- building, but they would like The crimes against Osag- in Paslay, said he saw a big to see an investment made by es that took place in the opportunity for the town of want extension on county the county first. Big Hill during the Reign of Fairfax and the county from Jones pointed out that Terror have been well docu- tourism revenue, especial- Fairfax was not the only town mented in Grann’s “Killers of wide draft EIS ly with the upcoming film in the county with a building the Flower Moon” and “The years, with the original ver- “Killers of the Flower Moon,” Lenzy Krehbiel-Burton falling down. “If we do this, Deaths of Sybil Bolton,” by sion roundly derided by share- a movie based on the best- Osage News it’s going to take everything Dennis McAuliffe Jr. There holders and producers. selling book by David Grann we have,” he said. Currently, was a consistent cover-up of Published in the Nov. 22 of the same name. Conner Only a handful of speakers there are “20-something” oth- Osage murders by the morti- edition of the Federal Regis- said there was an increasing offered comments at the Bu- er towns with buildings that cian that worked there, fal- number of tourists visiting reau of Indian Affairs’ Dec. 12 ter, the comment period on need help and if the com- sification of autopsy reports, Fairfax. listening session at the Osage the 566-page proposal is open missioners are going to give and Osages were consistently Paslay asked if there was Nation Civic Center, but through Jan. 22, 2020, with money to stabilize the Big overcharged for services. any interest from the film- the message was consistent BIA officials hoping to roll out and clear. a finished product for public “You spent four years review in May. The original drafting this environmental deadline was Jan. 6, but BIA Bird Creek Farms has big plans for 2020 impact study and we’re ex- officials pushed back that date pected to digest it in about six to accommodate business days been working with the USDA and inspections Shannon Shaw Duty weeks?” Osage Minerals Coun- lost due to the three federal have already taken place. The Osage Nation Osage News cil consultant Fred Storer holidays. Department of Natural Resources have taken asked incredulously. However, several at- water samples out of Bird Creek and pending Bird Creek Farm, the Nation’s 270 acres of The study in question is a tendees took to the mi- donated land on the southeast side of Pawhus- results they will see what type of filtration sys- county-wide draft environ- crophone to plead for the ka, is getting an upgrade in 2020. tem they will need. mental impact statement that comment period to be extend- The farm, which currently has hoop houses, “We’ve been working with the FDA and get- would impact drilling permit- an aquaponics facility and produces crops that ting our GAP certification so we can sell our ting regulations. It has been See Eis are given to Osage programs, will be expanding produce and our results, not only to our Casinos in the works for more than six —Continued on Page 5 production, adding green houses, beehives and but to the public in general,” Trumbly said. raised beds. He said they plan on putting in at least eight Jim Trumbly, Bird Creek Farm Project Man- new raised beds at the farm, putting in new ager, said the farm is currently working with green houses and converting the existing hoop Osage Casinos to identify specific crops that houses into greenhouses – pending on funding. could be used in the Casino’s restaurants. They Their hopes are to have five to six greenhouses. have also discussed possibly growing crops such They’ve submitted grants for the climate con- as barley and rye that could be used to make trol equipment they’ll need for the greenhouses. 604 Kihekah • Pawhuska, OK 74056 beer for the Casinos’ Nine Band Brewing Com- They should know if they’ve been awarded the (918) 287-5668 pany Brewery. grant money by early spring. www.osagenews.org The Farm is also adding 20 new beehives. They are adding a strawberry wall in their They have already ordered the materials and new aquaponics facility. Editor they will begin building them in January and “We were working with the agricultural engi- February and the bees will arrive in April or neering department at OSU and they came out Shannon Shaw Duty May, Trumbly said. and did a study on how to do the wall and it’s “The first year you don’t expect a harvest, de- not nearly as expensive as we thought it would Senior Reporter pending on the bees. Generally, the first year be, so we’re going to jump on that really quick,” Benny Polacca you want to keep the honey for the bees. So, he said. we’re looking at 2021 to harvest from 20 bee- Currently, Bird Creek Farm has four fulltime Staff Photographer hives and 2022 we’ll harvest from 40 beehives,” employees and their offices are located on the he said. “We would like to get up to 100 to 150 farm. Cody Hammer beehives. It does two things; it helps with cross “We’re going to continue with our education pollinization of our crops and at the same time and cultural mission, but we’ve expanded and Osage News Editorial we could harvest honey and have Osage Hon- really focused on the commercial mission and Board Members ey.” we want to make the farm at least self-suffi- Jerri Jean Branstetter They plan to expand the area of cultivation cient if not profitable,” Trumbly said. “We’ve by 14 new acres. The area was used for growing committed for the Inlonshka dances. We’re go- Teresa Trumbly Lamsam hay last year. They are hiring a horticulturalist ing to supply the non-meat items for the Drum- Tara McLain Manthey and three new staff members. He said they have keeper committees.” Osage News • osagenews.org January 2020 3

Congressional committee Three women elected, two male incumbents hires law firm to look into reelected in Hominy village election Benny Polacca alleged misuse of health Osage News HOMINY VILLAGE, Okla. – Residents here elected three and education funds Osage women to serve on the Shannon Shaw Duty law firm Crowe Dunlevy and five-member Hominy Village Osage News not to exceed $40,000 for the Committee on Dec. 3 and contract, unless authorized re-elected two incumbents. It is no secret that Osage by the Congressional Affairs The 2019 Hominy Village tribal members had unre- committee. election took place as all five stricted use of their Health “Pursuant to the Osage positions opened for two-year Benefit Fund cards for the Congressional rules, I move terms. The Osage Nation 2019 calendar year. that the Congressional Af- Election Office staff assisted The Congressional Affairs fairs Committee approve with the one-day election as Committee met on Dec. 20 to hiring Crowe Dunlevy law it has during the most recent discuss the fund and the con- firm or other outside legal village elections for Hominy All photos by BENNY POLACCA/Osage News tinuing problems associated counsel if Crowe Dunlevy is and Pawhuska. Voting was open for the 2019 Hominy Village Committee election at the with it. First, they discussed conflicted out, to pursue the Residents reelected William return of funds improperly village chapel until 8 p.m. on Dec. 3. The Osage Nation Election Board that tribal members who Shadlow and Reuben “Batt” withdrawn from the direct assisted with the election. misused their cards have not DeRoin to the committee. assistance revolving funds, been identified. Congress- April Mitts, a past committee woman Shannon Edwards, including but not limited are Lauren Wetselline and dance with a Nov. 14 execu- member, won re-election and who has been the sponsor of to the health benefit fund Junitress Smith. tive order signed by Principal first-time committee mem- the health benefit fund every and the higher education The 2019 Hominy Village Chief Geoffrey Standing Bear bers winning the election year since its inception in scholarship fund and funds election took place in accor- calling for the election to take 2008, said after a conversa- transferred out of direct as- place that night. Village resi- tion with Attorney General sistance and into and out dents who are age 18 and older Clint Patterson she got the of ‘salaries and wages line are eligible to vote in village impression they were having item’ and ‘employee benefits elections, per Osage law. difficulty identifying the in- line item’ without appropria- Village Committee terms dividual cases of misuse. tion/authorization in law for are for two years, per the 1964 She said Patterson was another purpose.” Hominy Village Constitution. drafting a report as to why Her motion passed with The village chapel served as there haven’t been cases four “yes” votes coming from the election polling site while a filed in tribal court. Edwards, Congresswomen cultural class took place at the “It’s always been very Maria Whitehorn and Paula nearby community building. clear what the purpose of Stabler, and Congressman At 5 p.m., the election start- that benefit is for and it’s for Eli Potts. The lone “no” vote ed with the election officials health use,” Edwards said. came from Congressman RJ asking for nominations from “I believe that money should Walker, who said he felt oth- village residents in atten- be repaid because it impacts er avenues for information dance. Residents nominated all of us.” should be pursued before 10 candidates and those candi- She said tribal members hiring an outside law firm. dates’ names were written on a were using their cards for Potts said he has sent nu- large paper tablet for residents items such as makeup and merous emails for months to pick from as they wrote their hotel rooms. Congressman with little to no reply. candidate choices on pieces of John Maker said the misuse paper, which were then depos- of the card has happened Reaction ited into a locked metal box. prior to 2019 because he Their vote was not tak- Those nominees included heard reports of tribal mem- en as a mere search for in- Shadlow, DeRoin, Mitts, Wet- bers spending their cards at formation. Principal Chief selline, Smith, Everett Waller Walgreens on non-health re- Geoffrey Standing Bear (incumbent), Amanda Jake, The Hominy Village Committee Election Results were posted at 8:17 p.m. lated items. responded via email on Michael Fields (incumbent), on Dec. 3. Village residents elected William Shadlow, Reuben DeRoin, Edwards said that Dec. 26. Hope Waller and Jeff Willcox Lauren Wetselline, April Mitts and Junitress Smith. wouldn’t have been possi- “It is unfortunate to learn (incumbent). ble because the previous during this holiday season Election officials verified vil- third-party companies, Mu- of the Motion made by Con- lage residents’ identification tual Assurance Adminis- gresswoman Edwards and with a list of eligible village trators and HealthSmart, supported by the Congres- voters previously provided by gave the Congress monthly sional Affairs Committee to the village committee. Vot- reports so they could track retain the law firm of Crowe ing residents were allowed spending and their cards Dunlevy to take legal action three hours of vote time be- were encoded with a mag- against the Osage Nation fore voting closed at 8 p.m. netic strip that prevented Treasurer, the Controller, for tabulating. spending on non-health re- and Executive Branch re- Assistant Election Supervi- lated items. garding baseless allegations sor Courtney Piearcy said 20 of “Well, it was still going of improper line-item shift- 30 eligible Hominy village resi- on,” Maker said. ing and misuse of the Health dents voted that night. Piearcy Benefit Fund and Scholar- and Election Supervisor Alexis Crowe Dunlevy ship Fund,” Standing Bear Rencountre unlocked the met- Edwards and Congress- wrote. “There has been no al box at 8 p.m. then counted man Eli Potts discussed wrongdoing by the Trea- the votes. accounting reports that surer, the Controller, or the Twenty of 30 residents took part in the 2019 Hominy Village Committee See Election showed line-item shifting Executive Branch in the use election on Dec. 3. —Continued on Page 16 in the amount of nearly of these funds. These allega- $135,000 out of the health tions are fully denied, and benefit fund by the Execu- the accusations are false.” tive Branch to pay for con- He wrote they have seen Osage Strategic Update webinars, tractors to conduct a health “this kind of destructive ac- survey for Strategic Plan- tion” before and that it was community meetings planned in January ning purposes. There was from a familiar source and also money shifted out of the couldn’t come at a worse Benny Polacca mational video posted to the living in Washington, fund to pay for drug testing. time. He said they are facing Osage News Osage Strategic Update Face- Oregon and Idaho at 7 Edwards said she made a challenges from the State book page states. “Topics in- p.m. PST. complaint to the AG’s office of Oklahoma and the feder- In 2020, the Osage Nation clude: Economic Development, • Jan. 27 for all Osage about the improper with- al bureaucracy and need to will continue outreach efforts Education, Cultural Preser- college students at 7 p.m. drawals and followed up stay united. to gather input from all Osag- vation, Minerals & Natural CST. multiple times in November. “The threat of legal ac- es to update the Nation’s 25- Resources, Health and Gover- She met with Treasurer Jim tion from the Congress year strategic plan. nance & Justice.” Scheduled community Littleton and asked him to arose without consultation Community meetings with After the Osage public input meetings put the money back in the with me. It sounds as if it Executive Branch officials and is gathered from the commu- • Jan. 4 – Wichita, Kans. health benefit fund “and to was well planned by what contractors working on the nity meetings, the 2020-2025 – Holiday Inn – Wichita my knowledge that hasn’t I heard on the recording of strategic plan update will con- survey will be developed and East I-35 at 549 S. Rock happened.” the Congressional Affairs tinue in January in Oklahoma distributed by mail to enrolled “The Assistant AG said Committee. It should be and other states. Also there Osages age 18 and older to fill Rd., 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. the Chief of Staff (Jason no surprise then, that the will be online webinars avail- out and mail back in a stamped • Jan. 5 – Lawrence, Kans. Zaun) thought it was an ap- Congress has now created able for those who cannot at- and addressed envelope. The – Lied Center at 1600 propriate place to pull it out a wall which requires legal tend the community meetings. survey will also be posted on- Stewart Dr., 12:30 to 4:30 of,” she said. counsel present at all com- The Nation’s Self-Gover- line. p.m. nance and Strategic Planning For more information and to Edwards and Potts both, munications between our • Jan. 11 – Houston, Texas Office is hosting the commu- view updates on planned com- at different times, motioned branches of government,” he – Springfield Suites nity meetings and online we- munity meetings, call (888) and withdrew their motions wrote. “When legal counsel (Marriott hotel) at 1350 to hire legal counsel to look is not available, do not ex- binars for the Osage public. 749-9599 or visit www.osage- Broadfield Blvd., 12:30 to into the situation. Congress- pect to communicate with Times and dates for the stra- strategicupdate.com to obtain 4:30 p.m. woman Paula Stabler asked those who you threaten. You tegic plan update meetings the webinar links to partici- what the purpose of the at- or your attorneys may com- and webinars are listed on pate online. • Jan. 12 – Irving/ Dallas, torneys would be, an investi- municate with us through the “Osage Strategic Update” Texas – Holiday Inn gation or a lawsuit? Edwards General Counsel Terry Ma- Facebook page and Instagram Scheduled webinars Express D/FW North – account. Azelea Room at 4550 W. said she wants legal counsel son Moore. Do not expect • Jan. 6 – Pacific Standard There will be four webinars John Carpenter Freeway to work with the Speaker to for those who you have Time zone at 7 p.m. find a resolution. threatened to appear at any by U.S. mainland time zones in Irving, 1 to 4:30 p.m. along with a separate webinar • Jan. 7 – Mountain “The health benefit fund meetings with the Congress • Jan. 13 – Tulsa Osage for those living in the Pacific Standard Time zone at 7 is not the cookie jar, and nei- or its Committees without Casino Hotel – Sunflower Northwest. There will also be p.m. ther is the higher education legal counsel.” Room at 951 W. 36th St., a separate webinar for Osage scholarship,” Edwards said. In response to questions • Jan. 8 – Central Standard 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. “I want to be clear that these about the allegations, he college students to participate. Time zone at 7 p.m. direct assistance funds are “During these sessions, you • Jan. 14 – Oklahoma City, said that Littleton and Fox • Jan. 9 – Eastern Standard used for direct assistance.” will give your input on six top- American Indian Cultural are both licensed CPA’s Time zone at 7 p.m. By the end of the meeting and can read the law and ics that will be developed into Center and Museum at Edwards motioned to hire follow it. a survey for distribution to • Jan. 16 – Pacific 659 American Indian the Osage Nation,” an infor- Northwest for Osages Blvd., 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. 4 January 2020 Osage News • osagenews.org

to the federal government about the Filing Stitt potential for litigation should the stale- –from Page 1 –from Page 1 mate continue. “We stand united today in our pref- Congress shall hold any oth- guage in the compacts that says they erence to avoid a protracted multi-year er tribal office under another automatically renew if certain provi- legal battle,” Morgan said. “We stand Indian nation during his/ her sions are met, including the Oklahoma united today prepared for an unfor- term.” Horse Racing Commission’s reautho- tunate lengthy legal battle with Gov. Per the Constitution, all rization of gaming and racing licenses Stitt and we do not want to describe enrolled Osages who are 18 back in October. the indescribable nature of the damage years old and registered to “It’s not needed,” Oklahoma Indian it will do to our relationship with the vote shall be qualified to vote. Gaming Association Chairman Matt Morgan said. “We’re not sure he has the state and the state’s business reputa- The Constitution also states legal authority to offer that extension tion.” the Congress shall establish in the first place, but it is not needed.” Speaking on behalf of five north-cen- an election law creating an In accordance with the Indian Gam- tral Oklahoma tribes, Kaw Nation Election Board that shall be ing Regulatory Act, Class III compact- Chairwoman Lynn Williams pushed charged with conducting both ed games in Oklahoma include slot back against Gov. Stitt’s claims that general and special elections. machines, craps, roulette and house- the tribes are not united on compact In planning for the general banked table games, such as black- talks and reiterated the economic im- election, the Election Office jack. Class II gaming, which includes pact gaming has had on rural commu- staff and three-member Elec- electronic bingo and pull-tab games, is nities. tion Board will be following not subject to the compact. The current “We’re small tribes, but we turn most All photos by SHANNON SHAW DUTY/Osage News procedures in the Nation’s compacts do not include provisions to of our revenue back towards our com- Dena Cosby, Osage writer and poet, was the most up-to-date election code allow for sports betting or online gam- munities,” she said. “We support our bling. featured speaker at the Osage Nation Museum’s (ONCA 17-107) along with schools and build roads. We take care Under the current compact, the ex- first Poetry Reading & Open Mic in September. rules and regulations govern- of the health of our citizens but those clusivity fees for Oklahoma’s 131 trib- ing elections (ONCR 19-10) ap- who are non-Native as well.” ally operated casinos range from 4 to 10 proved by Congress last year. Officials with Osage Casinos have The election code charges percent, prompting a $139 million pay- Museum hosts out to state coffers in 2018 alone. That previously said that their properties the Election Board with keep- will be open on New Year’s Day, a posi- ing a permanent voter regis- figure represents an increase of 3.48 percent from the previous fiscal year. tion that other tribal leaders reiterated try of qualified Osage voters, Poetry Reading & Additionally, the Indian Gaming at River Spirit. which notes: “The Osage voter Regulatory Act requires the Depart- “It’ll be status quo,” Morgan said. registry shall include all en- ment of Interior to approve any amend- “We don’t believe Jan. 1 will be critical rolled (ON) members 18 years Open Mic nights ments to state-tribal gaming compacts, because the auto-renewal has already Osage News of age or older who have been including the 2018 addition of ball and been triggered. We’ll continue to be issued an (ON) membership dice games after the statewide teacher open and continue to offer the same The Osage Nation Museum has been card on or after Oct. 9, 2002 walkout. Both sides have reached out games. It’ll be business as usual.” hosting Poetry Reading & Open Mic nights bearing the signature of (an and the community has come out to read ON) Principal Chief.” their poetry and to listen. According to ONCR 19-10: American Affairs on Dec. 23. A citi- The first Poetry Reading & Open Mic “In an effort to ensure fair Billy zen of the Chickasaw Nation, Billy was held in September, with featured poet elections, the Osage Nation –from Page 1 was the first person to hold the Cabi- Dena Cosby. She is a graduate of Rogers net-level position. The former Repub- Election Board finds that it from Class III gaming under the cur- State University and her writing reflects lican floor leader in the Oklahoma is necessary to develop rules rent compact. The current compacts her Osage culture and her life today as a House of Representatives is currently and regulations for the prop- do include language that allows for mother, writer and advocate against do- representing the Pontotoc District in er operation of the Osage the state to conduct audits. mestic violence, according to a prepared the Chickasaw Nation’s legislature. Nation’s elections for which The letter was dated Dec. 17, the release. A survivor of domestic abuse, Cos- In her resignation letter, effective the (ON) Election Board same day Gov. Stitt publicly asked by seeks to inspire women to help them- immediately, Billy said she was proud the state’s gaming tribes to accept a selves and others in the same situation. is responsible for.” of her work to build on relationships Rules/ regulations listed in compact extension through August. The first evening of poetry closed with between the state and Oklahoma’s a special performance by students from ONCR 19-10 include: Leaders from more than 30 tribes tribes. However, given the governor’s publicly rejected that offer the next the Dance Maker Academy under the di- • Requiring each candidate attitude regarding compact negoti- day at a press conference at River rection of Jenna Smith, choreographer and to file for candidacy in ations and “commitment to unnec- Spirit Casino in Tulsa. founder. The students performed the orig- person at the ON Elec- essary conflict,” she felt she had no inal piece Ashes which relates to the story Gov. Stitt is seeking a higher ex- choice but to walk away. tion Office in Pawhuska. clusivity fee rate from the state’s of a young girl escaping to a better life. “You have dismissed advice and For Halloween the museum hosted two • The candidacy filing fee for gaming tribes and maintains that the facts that show the peril of your cho- each Congressional can- current compacts expire on Jan. 1, Osage County ghost hunters, Veronica sen approach and have remained in- Pipestem and Christopher Hill, who told didate is $300 and shall thus making Class III games, includ- tent on breaking faith with the tribes, stories and showed videos of their find- be made with a cashier’s ing craps and roulette, illegal. How- both by refusing to engage with the ings in some of the most haunted places. check or money order. ever, officials with Osage Casino and compact’s language and more recent- A poetry reading was held afterward with other tribal casinos across the state ly, by suggesting you would displace • After the filing period area residents telling tales of paranormal have said that it will be business as our tribal partners with private, out- closes, decisions certify- usual come New Year’s Day. of-state commercial gaming opera- See Poetry ing or disqualifying filed Under the current compact, the ex- tors. Your actions have shown that —Continued on Page 15 candidates shall be ren- clusivity fees for Oklahoma’s 131 trib- my continuing service in your cabinet dered within four business ally operated casinos range from 4 to is unnecessary for you and impossi- days after the receipt of 10 percent, prompting a $139 million ble for me.” background checks of payout to state coffers in 2018 alone. Billy is the second member of Gov. all candidates. In past That figure represents an increase of Stitt’s cabinet to publicly break ranks election years, the ON At- 3.48 percent from the previous fiscal in less than a week over gaming com- torney General’s office has year. Revenue from Class II games, pact negotiations. On Dec. 16, Attor- conducted the background such as electronic bingo and pull-tab ney General Mike Hunter formally checks on all candidates games, is not subject to the compact. withdrew from compact talks, thus who filed for office -be Should the audits go forward, it making Gov. Stitt the state’s lead fore the filing deadline. will be without a key member of Gov. negotiator. The governor’s office has Stitt’s cabinet. indicated that it is in talks to bring in • Each candidate is required Citing the compact controversy, an out-of-state law firm with compact to open a separate bank Lisa Billy tendered her resignation experience, but declined to say which Dena Cosby reads her poetry to a large audience account in the name of as Oklahoma’s Secretary of Native firm or where it is from. in the museum Sept. 28 as part of their first in a the candidate or candi- series of Poetry Reading & Open Mic nights. date’s campaign and shall provide proof upon filing. allowable expenses, accord- tion. For all questions call the member, according to the All campaign donations Card ing to a statement from the Osage Nation Benefit Center statement. shall be deposited into –from Page 1 Chief’s Office. The health ben- at (833) 406-0969. this account, including efit cards do not cover medical spending by tribal members on Rollover the candidate’s personal marijuana expenses. New Year Visa debit cards administered Rollover money from the funds used for campaign Funds will be available 2019 calendar year won’t be by the company WageWorks purposes. All expendi- Online enrollment on the 2020 Health Benefit rolled over until mid to late Inc., the Nation has hired Upon online enrollment Cards as of Jan. 1, 2020. For April of next year, after the tures used for campaign RT Consulting to administer or re-enrollment, tribal tribal members who have not 2019 medical reimbursement purposes shall be spent new Mastercard debit cards. members will receive a con- received their new cards by runs out and the accounts from this account. The cards have a new look of firmation email from RT Jan. 1, save all receipts for are audited, according to the plain blue with an all-white Consulting with instructions qualifying expenses for reim- statement. The run-out begins At an Election Board meet- Osage Nation seal in the up- on how to create an online bursement. Members can also on Jan. 1 and goes through ing in fall 2019, Chairwoman per left-hand corner, and the portal to check balances and submit for reimbursement on- March 31. Shannon Lockett said candi- words “BENEFITS CARD” on it also provides the option to line or via the mobile app. The cards are allowed to dates could open a campaign the front. register for direct deposit of The amount each member have up to three years of bank account as early as possi- The WageWorks cards (red reimbursement checks. A por- receives will stay the same, 65 funds (current year plus two ble as long as the proof is pro- with a blue fan across the tal will need to be created for years and older receive $1,000 previous years). The total vided to Election Office staff at front) used for the 2019 cal- each individual who enrolls and members 64 and younger amount of an individual ac- the time of filing. endar year will expire on Dec. in the Health Benefit Plan, receive $500. Members who count cannot have more than 31 at 11:59 p.m. Tribal mem- All candidates will be re- including children. To access turn 65 mid-year must call in the following for the current bers are free to use them until quired to provide two cam- the online portal visit https:// to have the additional $500 year plus the two previous that time. paign reporting statements osagehealthbenefit.wealth- dollars added to their account calendar years: listing campaign donations Changes coming this year to careportal.com – if not enrolling in Osage Na- • $1,500 for members under and expenditures out of the the health benefit plan require Also in the confirmation tion’s Medicare Plan F/Part D 65 ($500 each year for a campaign bank account, ac- all tribal members to re-enroll email, and for the first time, program. total of 3 years). cording to the election rules in the plan, including individ- are instructions on how to Members participating in and regulations. Failure to fol- uals enrolling their children. download an app that tribal the Medicare Plan F/Part D • $3,000 for members over low the rules and regulations Each individual, including members can access on their program will not be eligible 65 ($1,000 each year for a children, must have a sepa- could result in fines issued by devices to keep track of their for the health benefit card. total of 3 years). rate enrollment in the health the Election Board. balances for each family mem- Members can only participate benefit plan as each person Webinar For more information on ber. Search for “Osage Nation in one benefit or the other, not will be issued their own card. Benefit Center” in your app both, according to the state- A webinar is planned to the elections, filing for candi- Non-Osage parents will need store to download. The app is ment. orient users on the do’s and dacy, or to register or update to provide proof of guardian- available on Android and Ap- The plans and benefits the don’ts of the health benefit addresses for voting, and to ship (birth certificate, legal ple systems. Osage Nation offers have not fund. The webinar will be request absentee ballots, con- adoption paperwork, etc.) for For those tribal members changed for 2020, except that available in January 2020. tact the Election Office toll- health benefit enrollment of who fax, mail or email their the health benefit card ven- For all questions call the free at (877) 560-5286 or visit their Osage child. applications, RT Consulting dor changed and the Plan F/ Osage Nation Benefit Cen- its current website at: www. All users of the health ben- will not reach out to those Part D price increased a few ter at (833) 406-0969 or osagenation-nsn.gov/what-we- efit cards must follow the IRS tribal members unless there percent, but that is paid for email OsageNation@rtcon- do/elections Publication 502 guidelines for is a question on their applica- by the Osage Nation, not the sultingllc.com Osage News • osagenews.org January 2020 5

Courtesy Photo Jeremy and Tyler Reece, brothers who killed local oilman Rick Holt in 2015 on Indian land. 2020 ELECTION YEAR Both federal and state IMPORTANT DATES courts will decide prison sentences for Reece brothers ELECTION DATES Lenzy Krehbiel-Burton his attorney indicated that he testi- • FEBRUARY 4 Candidate Filing Begins Osage News fied before a federal grand jury that the fatal blow was administered on • MARCH 2 Candidate Filing Ends With state charges stalling out, fed- Indian land. eral prosecutors have filed second de- State prosecutors have maintained • APRIL 17 Deadline to submit Absentee Ballot gree murder charges against one of two that Holt was instead killed on his per- Pawhuska brothers accused of killing a sonal property, which would keep the Request form. – Request must be local oilman. case out of the federal court system and On Nov. 25, attorneys with the into Oklahoma’s. received by the close of business at Northern District of Oklahoma filed No hearing date has been set yet second degree murder charges against for Jeremy Reece before Judge John 4:30 p.m. Jeremy Reece. Dowdell. A preliminary hearing for • APRIL 27 Absentee Ballot Mailing Begins Along with his brother Tyler, Jer- Tyler Reece is scheduled for Jan. 22, emy Reece has been held in custody 2020, in Osage County District Court • MAY 29 Early Voting Day 1 for more than four years in connection Under Oklahoma statute, Tyler Re- with the September 2015 death of Rick ece could receive up to 10 years in pris- • MAY 30 Early Voting Day 2 Holt, whose body was found on restrict- on and/or a fine of $5,000 for conspiracy ed Indian land northwest of Hominy to commit murder if found guilty, • JUNE 1 Election Day with bullet wounds to the neck, shoul- plus up to 20 years’ imprisonment ders and head. for kidnapping. ABSENTEE INFORMATION The Reece brothers are citizens The Osage Nation filed first degree of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation and homicide charges in May 2016 to en- • Check your calendars to see if you will be able to vote in person or Holt’s body was found on Osage land, sure the brothers remained in custody need to submit an Absentee Ballot Request form. thus opening the door for proceedings after the state of Oklahoma missed an • Permanent Absentee Voters do NOT have to submit a new request in federal or tribal court under the Ma- appeal deadline. form. jor Crimes Act. If convicted in tribal court, the broth- • Please call the Election Office to verify if you are a Permanent Absen- As of Dec. 6, Tyler Reece remains in ers could face up to one year in jail, tee Voter. state custody and does not face federal a $5,000 fine and banishment from • Make sure your Mailing Address and Absentee Ballot Mailing Address charges. At a Feb. 20 status conference, Osage lands for 20 years. are current with our office. • Please submit a new form if you did not mark the Permanent Absen- or more. Sections with a lower well tee Voter option on the form that you submitted in previous election Eis density would be subject to spacing years. –from Page 2 regulations, including buffer zones for • Make sure you submit a clear copy of your government issued photo culturally significant sites. ed even further through late March or ID. EXAMPLES: Driver’s License, Passport, Military ID, Tribal Photo Additionally, it would incorporate early April. ID, etc. a blanket ban on drilling permits for “There are a lot of reasons why we areas within municipalities, near sen- need more time,” Osage Producers As- sitive water supplies or near “highly DO YOU KNOW ABOUT sociation member Mike Mackey said. vulnerable” groundwater supplies as THE PRIVACY PROGRAM? “We need more time to just take a hard designated by the Oklahoma Water look at these options. This may be an Resources Board. You can make the choice to receive mailings from candidates. You will still improvement from where we were five be on the list of eligible voters AND still receive mailings from the Osage Na- Option No. 4 would add to the list of years ago, but we still have a long way site-specific protective measures that tion departments. Sign up now by filling out the form found on our website to go with this.” would have to be taken in order to get a or contact our office and we will mail, fax, or e-mail it to you. As worded, the proposal offers up drilling permit. For example, an emer- four courses of action the BIA could gency plan to provide drinking water take with respect to environmental would now have to be in place ahead FILING FOR CANDIDACY standards for drilling permits. • Filing for Candidacy forms are available on our website, or you can of time in the event that a lessee’s ac- Option No. 1 would be for the BIA tivities contaminate an area’s existing request them by calling or emailing our office. to simply not take any new action and supply. • Candidates must be an enrolled Osage Member. continue administering oil and gas It would also expand the list of ar- • A felony conviction cannot appear on a Candidate’s certified court leasing, drilling permits and workover eas now off-limits for new permits to record. activities in Osage County. include the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve, • Proof of a separate bank account in the name of the Candidate or the Option No. 2 would put an empha- all state parks, state wildlife manage- Candidate’s Campaign must be provided upon filing. sis on oil and gas development by re- ment areas, municipalities, pasture • Candidates must show their Osage Nation Membership Card and quiring site-specific environmental areas used by the Bureau of Land Man- Government Issued Photo ID upon filing. assessments before drilling permits agement for wild horses and any lakes are issued. Based on production data, administered by the U.S. Army Corps it projects that it would allow for an es- of Engineers. FILING FOR CONGRESS timated 4,761 new wells by 2037. The final version of the statement, • Candidate must be at least 25 years of age on the date of the election. Referred to in the study as a hybrid, whenever it is approved and enacted, is • The filing fee is $300 and must be in the form of a Cashier’s Check or option No. 3 would take into account slated to replace a blanket declaration Money Order made out to the Osage Nation Election Office. the density of wells in an area before issued in 1979 that oil and gas opera- allowing new drilling permits, with tions in Osage County have no signifi- Individuals interested in filing for office that have any further questions, please fewer issued for sections with 17 wells cant environmental impact. feel free to contact us during regular office hours using the contact information provided below.

OSAGE NATION ELECTION OFFICE INFORMATION Toll Free: (877) 560-5286 • Phone: (918) 287-5286 • Fax: (918) 287-5292 E-mail: [email protected] Physical Address: 608 Kihekah, Pawhuska, OK Mailing Address: P.O. Box 928 Pawhuska, OK 74056 Website: osagenation-nsn.gov/what-we-do/elections 6 January 2020 Osage News • osagenews.org

Osage Nation lowers flags to the opening of the newest and remains Year in Review half-staff in mourning of Capt. largest Osage Casino Hotel After a six-year legal battle –from Page 1 Richard Luttrell property, casino management for the Osage Nation Histor- The Osage Nation mourned and Osage Nation officials ic Preservation Office, they ter Than Ezra to a sold-out the passing of WWII Veter- gathered again to celebrate came out victorious and gained show of 2,000 on Feb. 16. Con- an Capt. Richard Luttrell by the groundbreaking on a sec- possession of remains and fu- cert attendees enjoyed a 25 lowering all flags on the Na- ond hotel tower. nerary objects the National percent discount on their hotel tion’s campus to half-staff on NAGPRA Review Committee stay at Osage Casinos for at- May 10. ruled were Osage and not that tending the concert. of the Sac and Fox Nation in 2015. BIA places Osage Nation Tulsa Airpark property Osage Congress approves into trust $4.5million for health benefit Ninety-eight acres of the for elders Osage Nation’s Tulsa Air- In the first of several ap- park property was signed into proved appropriation bills trust. Principal Chief Geof- during the Tzi-Zho Session, frey Standing Bear signed a the Sixth Osage Nation Con- warranty deed to place the 98 gress passed a $4.5 million acres into trust in the Execu- appropriation bill to fund the tive Branch conference room health benefit fund for direct in Pawhuska. assistance to Osage elders. Federal appeals court to hear Osage Nation Attorney Gener- tribes’ lawsuit against the Congress passes amendments al resigns after arrest FCC in March to Health Benefit Fund to Holli Wells resigned as the More than 20 tribes, includ- counteract fraud Osage Nation’s Attorney Gen- ing the Osage Nation, will get Reports of Osages spending eral following an arrest for their day in court this spring their Health Benefit Fund on Driving Under the Influence. to attempt to block an order car stereos, groceries, vaca- According to the Pawhuska Po- from the Federal Communica- tions, hotel rooms and other lice Department report, Wells tions Commission they claim non-health related expenses was pulled over by officers on ignores tribal consultation re- prompted the Sixth Osage Na- SEPTEMBER Sept. 16 around 2:30 a.m. after quirements. tion Congress to act. JULY Martin Scorsese meets with she was spotted driving with- Chief Standing Bear about Osage News gets a new look out her vehicle’s lights on and OSU adds Osage Nation Tillman elected Congressional ‘Killers of the Flower Moon Osage News’ page design- swerving over the center line. citizen J.K. Hadlock to Speaker, Stabler elected Sec- Famed Hollywood direc- basketball roster ond Speaker er Sherry Stinson, of Bartles- tor Martin Scorsese and his Tzi-Zho Session opens with On Feb. 21, the Oklaho- Joe Tillman is the new ville-based Tyler Creative, team met with Principal Chief stress on priorities for ma State University athletic Osage Nation Congressional redesigned the newspaper Geoffrey Standing Bear for FY 2020 budgets department officially added Speaker and Paula Stabler is masthead for the purpose of two-and-a-half hours in the As the Sixth Osage Nation Osage Nation citizen J.K. Had- the Second Speaker after both showcasing the Osage culture. Executive Conference room on Congress meets for its 2019 lock to the school’s basketball were elected to the posts for the Osage Nation campus. Tzi-Zho Session, Principal roster just in time for the Cow- the first time by their Sixth Wah-Zha-Zhi Health Clinic Chief Geoffrey Standing Bear boys’ road trip to league-lead- ON Congressional peers on earns accreditation Six tribes come together issued a recommendation that ing Kansas State University. April 23. The Osage Nation’s Wah- with one purpose: Zha-Zhi Health Center is now the Legislative Branch “exer- Language Preservation cise extra caution” as they con- Osage Nation mourns passing accredited by the Accredita- QUAPAW, Okla. – The or- sider various 2020 fiscal year of artist and historian tion Association for Ambulato- ganizers for the annual Dhegi- budget appropriation bills. Romaine Shackelford ry Health Care. ha conference only planned Romaine Bernard Shackel- for 150 participants, but more ford, Osage veteran, artist of Osage Congress passes $250K than 200 came. the Osage Nation’s seal, histo- appropriation to design ON rian and beloved elder, passed Museum expansion Standing Bear shares away at his home in Pawhuska Plans to expand and improve presentation on Scorsese visit on April 1 surrounded by loved the Osage Nation Museum at Osage Impact gathering ones at the age of 90. will move toward the design Nearly one month after Hol- process after the Sixth ON lywood film director Martin Congress approved a $250,000 Scorsese visited the Osage Na- appropriation bill to fund the tion, Principal Chief Geoffrey conceptual design work with Standing Bear provided more the hopes donors will fund its updates related to the upcom- construction later. ing filming of “Killers of the Flower Moon.”

National Portrait Gallery acquires portrait of Shonke Mon thi^ by artist Ken Gonzales-Day The Smithsonian’s Nation- al Portrait Gallery announced APRIL the acquisition of a photograph of the bust of Shonke Mon thi^, The Osage Nation is ‘exploring who was a prominent warrior all options’ when it comes to and spiritual leader of the Industrial Hemp Osage people and hereditary NOVEMBER The Osage Nation is consid- Chief of the Pa tso li^ Big Hill Grayhorse community wants ering the Industrial Hemp in- Band at the turn of the 20th to meet with filmmaker dustry after last year’s passage century. This work by Latino Martin Scorsese of the Farm Bill. The updated artist Ken Gonzales-Day was If a film is being made law officially removes hemp first displayed by the Portrait about the systematic murder from the federal controlled Gallery in “UnSeen: Our Past of Osages from the Grayhorse substances list, thus opening in a New Light, Ken Gonza- District, then that story should the door for tribes. JUNE les-Day and Titus Kaphar,” be told by Grayhorse Osages. Grayhorse Cemetery in spot- which was presented as part of That was the message from an Osage Gaming Commission light after local news coverage the museum’s 50th anniversa- Oct. 13 meeting attended by approves standards for Grayhorse is mostly un- ry exhibition program. 85 people from the Grayhorse roulette at Tulsa Osage Casino changed over the past 100 The Osage Nation’s Gam- community. years with the exception of Tribes win in federal appeals ing Enterprise is another step new gravesites. The cemetery AUGUST court against FCC Daposka Ahnkodapi closer to offering live roulette is a quiet, peaceful place with Gov. Stitt taking hard line WASHINGTON — A feder- receives glowing review at the Tulsa Osage Casino Ho- a long history in the Osage with tribes over gaming com- al appeals court determined from Advance Ed tel after the Nation’s Gaming community. Tulsa’s KJRH pacts that the Federal Communica- With a glowing review in Commission virtual channel 2 got it wrong In what normally takes tions Commission’s attempt to hand, Daposka Ahnkodapi is approved two sets of game when their article stated there years to negotiate, Oklaho- de-regulate small cell phone one step closer to earning full standards on March 6. was evidence of recent vandal- ma Gov. Kevin Stitt is giving deployments – and leave tribes accreditation. ism there. Oklahoma tribes less than five out of the process – is arbitrary Federal appeals court months to renegotiate their and capricious. Clint Patterson appointed as considers FCC’s wireless Minerals Council to file gaming compacts that have ON Attorney General streamlining order trespassing charges on wind been in existence for nearly Clint Patterson is now serv- Attorneys for more than 20 company 15 years. ing as Osage Nation Attorney tribes challenging an order The Osage Minerals Council General after taking his oath over cell phone towers made is taking a step toward push- Osage cultural stories to be of office on Oct. 7 at the tribal their case to a three-judge ap- ing Enel out of Osage County. incorporated into Daposka courthouse. pellate panel on March 15. At its May 15 meeting, the Ahnkodapi curriculum Osage Minerals Council voted In an age where Native Amendments to strengthen unanimously to request Osage American communities across MAY the Independent Press Act Agency Superintendent Rob- Oklahoma are making efforts Chief Standing Bear delivers signed into law in Phillips to file trespassing to incorporate accurate tribal 2019 Osage State of the Na- The Osage News is now op- charges against Enel regard- history into state curriculum, tion during Hun-Kah Session erating with additional legal ing its wind turbines that are Daposka Ahnkodapi is inte- The 2019 Hun-Kah Session protections. By a 10-1 count, still up in Osage County after grating Osage history and cul- commenced with the Osage the Osage Nation Congress the U.S. Supreme Court de- Nation’s State of the Nation tural stories. approved ONCA 19-78 on clined to hear its appeal. delivered by Principal Chief Sept. 27, thus amending the Geoffrey Standing Bear. On Chance Rencountre wins tribe’s Independent Press Act UOSC attendees hear govern- March 25, Standing Bear said second UFC match in to establish a shield act, create ment, culture updates from the Nation’s enrollment “is Las Vegas alternate seats on the editori- Osage Nation officials growing at a remarkable pace” By unanimous decision, al board and guarantee a con- A clear sunny day near with the membership count at Osage professional fighter tinued funding source for the the Pacific Ocean provided 21,675, which is an increase of Chance Rencountre won his newspaper. 513 Osages from last year’s re- the landscape for the United second UFC match on July 6 ported figure in his 2018 State Osages of Southern Califor- in Las Vegas. of the Nation address. Stand- nia spring gathering for the DECEMBER ing Bear said the increase in region’s Osages to enjoy the Osage Casino breaks ground Land of the Osages Osage enrollment represents a camaraderie and updates from on second Tulsa casino hotel OCTOBER Research Center opens in 21 percent growth rate in the the Osage Nation. tower Osage Nation wins historic See Year in Review past five years. Eleven months following NAGPRA battle for Missouri —Continued on Page 7 Osage News • osagenews.org January 2020 7 Northern California Osage gathering features ON updates, current events Benny Polacca members and said “that is a and putting it in federal trust” his initiatives are, we look at you can’t really be a tribe if Osage News significant increase and a won- is ongoing for those land par- our programs, we see what we you don’t have a language.” derful increase from just five cels. do, we evaluate how our mon- Maker also mentioned the WOODLAND, Calif. – Dis- years ago.” “We’re hoping in six months, ey is being spent, so we ask proposed ballot question ask- cussions on the Nation’s gov- Standing Bear said the Na- that (land into trust process) questions so we can support ing Osage voters whether ernment operations, legislative tion’s employee count at nearly will be done and the (Gaming them or ask ‘hey, have you elected/ retained officials in updates and the ongoing tribal 500 is about the same as five Enterprise Board) has told ever thought about this?” she all three government branches gaming compact dispute took years ago and those work- me they’re going to approach said. For example, Whitehorn should be subject to term lim- place here as dozens of Osag- ers are now serving twice as the Congress for authority to said she supports the Nation’s its. The Congress passed the es and their families attended many people. While in office, engage in an indebtedness to Daposka Ahnkodapi (immer- resolution (ONCR 18-20 with the Northern California Osage Standing Bear also noted only build those two (casinos), they sion school), but has questions Congresswoman Alice Good- fall gathering on Nov. 9. one-third of the Nation’s em- want to build them at the same on its costs and plans. fox as co-sponsor) in the 2019 More than 60 people attend- ployees were Osage when he time to save money.” Congresswoman Brandy Hun-Kah Session for the ques- ed the day-long event approx- took office as Principal Chief Congresswoman Maria Lemon touched on economic tion to go on the 2020 general imately 15 miles northwest in 2014 and now two-thirds of Whitehorn told the attend- development, which included election ballot. Maker said if of Sacramento featuring pre- the Nation’s employee count is ees she’s filed a constitutional the failed appropriation bill to voters approve the question, sentations from Osage Nation Osage or married to an Osage. amendment resolution (ONCR approve $500,000 to be depos- those elected/ retained officials officials visiting from Oklaho- As of Nov. 8, Standing Bear 19-22), which seeks to put a ited into the Nation’s economic in the three branches would be ma. The day concluded with said the number of Osages ballot question to Osage vot- development fund during the limited to five full-terms (a to- an Osage ribbonwork presen- signed up for the health bene- ers on whether the 2006 Osage 2019 Tzi-Zho Session. “How I tal of 20 years in office). tation and activity led by Ann fit programs stood at 15,254; in Constitution should be amend- felt it took place is we’re a little The gathering also featured Maker Freeman of Hominy. the Plan F supplement health ed to allow for a constitutional gun shy to put anymore money introductions and a brief dis- Principal Chief Geoffrey benefit, there are 883 enrolled; convention. She filed the reso- at this time (into the fund) be- cussion on the Osage News by Standing Bear opened his ad- and in the Part D prescrip- lution during the Tzi-Zho Ses- cause we’ve had no production Polacca and Editorial Assis- dress stating: “We’re all from tion supplement, there are sion in September and it faces as far as income back from (the tant/ Photographer Cody Ham- the same 2,229 people (original 768 enrolled. further consideration before a Nation’s two LLCs),” she said, mer. Also, Duane BigEagle, a allottees) and already we’ve For gaming revenue, Stand- vote by the 12-member Con- adding “economic development member of the NCO commit- talked about how my father ing Bear said 2019 “is the best gress, which requires 10 “yes” is something we definitely tee that plans the gatherings, may have known your uncle, year we’ve had and our pro- votes to be placed on the next have to get to.” read poetry he’s written. so we’re all connected and it’s jected revenue from the (Osage election ballot. Lemon told the attendees “The presentations and really wonderful to see.” He Casino Gaming Enterprise) is “What you’re seeing is just she sponsored a bill (approved flow of this gathering went then shared the most recent right under $49 million, which the ability to put that into the by Congress) during the No- very well,” said Keir John- statistics including the Osage is significant for Osage – re- language of the Constitution, it vember 2019 special session son-Reyes, also an NCO com- enrollment count is at 22,144 member we’re in a state where doesn’t have the draft of a ref- for a $35,000 tractor purchase mittee member. “Participants there’s 34 gaming tribes out of erendum, there are many dif- for agricultural purposes at were very appreciative of the 39 (federally recognized) tribes ferent ways people do them,” the Nation’s Bird Creek Farm Chief’s and Congressional rep- and over 100 casinos in a state Whitehorn said. According to replace a dilapidated one. resentatives’ attendance. Our that has 4 million people, so it to ONCR 19-22, an “Amend- She also said she is work- Nor Cal Osage community Year in Review is tough competition.” ment by Convention” section ing on another bill aimed at acknowledges the time, effort, –from Page 7 Standing Bear said the Na- would be added (if passed) to “strengthening our food sover- and resources required to at- tion has purchased property Article XX of the Constitution. eignty,” which would require tend, and we really enjoyed west of the Bartlesville airport The proposed section language law code to be in place and the the sharing of important infor- just off U.S. 60 for a new casino, reads: “No convention shall be rules/ regulations would come mation, laughter, connections, which would move the location called by the (ON) Congress to from the Nation’s Department and stories that took place. We closer to the city. In Pawhus- consider the Constitution, un- of Natural Resources. are also very appreciative to ka, Standing Bear said the Na- less a legislative referendum Congressman John Maker Ms. Ann Maker Freeman who tion purchased land just east providing for such convention told attendees he’s hearing lent her expertise through pro- of the Kum & Go convenience shall be first approved by 65% stories and feedback on people viding our ribbon work activity store for a new Pawhuska casi- of Osage electors at a general using the Osage language apps ... All in all, we had a very en- no location, which would move election.” to learn the words, “so I can joyable meeting and look for- the casino amenities from the Whitehorn said another tell you that app is working, ward to the spring meeting!” Pawhuska Village property part of Congressional duties it’s a great addition with our Johnson-Reyes said a NCO when it’s built. In the mean- is oversight of the money that Language Department… One spring gathering is scheduled time, Standing Bear said “the is spent on government costs. of Chief Standing Bear’s main for March 29 with location to tedious process of taking land “The Chief lets us know what focuses is saving our language, be determined later.

Minerals Council votes in favor of proposed constitutional amendments Lenzy Krehbiel-Burton The resolution passed by a president, Lou Phillips, to Osage News 4-1 count, with Second Chair formally ask for copies of the Andrew Yates and Council- council’s current budget and After several rounds of or Paul Revard abstaining. expense reports. Central Missouri edits and tweaks, the Osage Councilor Susan Forman was Citing a desire to avoid dis- GRAVOIS MILLS, Mo. – Minerals Council is now back- absent, while Councilor Talee closing proprietary informa- Thanks to a partnership be- ing proposed constitutional Redcorn cast the lone dis- tion, the council voted to table tween the Osage Nation and amendments from a group senting vote due to concerns the OSA’s request pending re- University of Missouri, the of shareholders. about the section regarding ceipt of a written request un- the Osage Nation Congress’ newly named Land of the At its Dec. 6 meeting, the der the Open Records Act and authority to develop ener- Osages Research Center is council passed a resolution discussion with Pipestem. gy-related laws. dedicated to the Nation and of support for constitutional Once those items are in hand, “That sentence is very com- now open to provide an out- amendments from a share- its interest in including finan- plicated and the mineral es- door classroom for studying holder group known as Annu- cial information in its upcom- itants for Change. tate is a big asset,” he said. agroforestry. ing edition of the newsletter. Getting the Minerals Coun- Initially brought for- “I believe instead of send- ward earlier in the year, cil’s backing does not guaran- Director Martin Scorsese ing it to one group, we need the proposed amendments tee that the amendments will meets with the Grayhorse to send it to all shareholders,” deal with Article XV of the appear on the ballot any time Community Councilor Margo Gray said. tribe’s constitution and who Osage News File Photo soon, however. In order to get Much like an Inlonshka “After we talk to legal coun- has what authority with The Osage Nation Constitution. the proposed amendments Committee Dinner, members sel, let’s see what we can le- respect to oversight of the formally before voters, either of the Grayhorse District lined minerals estate. more mutually palatable lan- one-quarter of the tribe’s elec- gally put out there. It needs up around Wakon Iron Hall The council did not endorse guage. torate has to sign a petition or to go out to all of our share- and one-by-one, from elder to the initial proposal from An- As proposed at the Dec. 6 at least 10 of the 12 members holders.” small child, Oscar-winning Di- nuitants for Change, which council meeting, the amend- of Congress can vote in favor In other business, the coun- rector Martin Scorsese shook would have stripped the ments would give the Osage of a resolution calling for a cil approved its regular meet- hands and introduced himself tribe’s judicial branch of all Nation Supreme Court ballot question. ing schedule for the upcoming to the nearly 200 Osages in at- judicial oversight over min- primary jurisdiction over Although the council grant- year. With one exception, it tendance. eral estate cases and instead cases involving the Osage ed one annuitant organiza- will continue to meet on the sent those cases to the federal Minerals Council. tion’s request, it tabled one first Friday and third Wednes- New album in works for system. Instead, members of An additional amendment from another in order to dis- day of each month. As was young recording artist after the council and its attorney, would explicitly bar the cuss it with legal counsel. the case in 2019, the council NAMA win Wilson Pipestem, met with Osage Nation Congress from At a recent quarterly meet- will forego its Friday meeting Ava Rose Johnson, the representatives from Annui- having authority over the ing, the Osage Shareholders in July and only convene on youngest artist to win a Native tants for Change to hash out mineral estate. Association authorized its July 15. American Music Award at the age of 12, has a busy winter and spring ahead of her. Af- ter her Nov. 2 win in Niagara Council works to improve timeliness of shareholder Falls, N.Y., at the 19th An- nual Native American Music Awards for Best Independent checks and prepares for county-wide EIS Recording for her video “Heav- Lenzy Krehbiel-Burton The December shareholder environmental impact study The final version of the en’s Window,” she is currently Osage News checks, valued at $4,005 for a draft put forward in late No- statement, whenever it is ap- in the songwriting process and full headright, were not sent vember by the Bureau of proved and enacted, is slated gearing up to travel to Albu- Since multiple sharehold- out simultaneously, prompting Indian Affairs. to replace a blanket declara- querque, N.M., where she will ers had to wait on fourth a flurry of questions from share- The comment period on tion issued in 1979 that oil and record another video. quarter headright checks holders and councilors alike. the 566-page proposal is open gas operations in Osage Coun- from the federal government October’s headright checks through Jan. 22, 2020, with ty have no significant environ- Gray testifies about MMIW to this December, the Osage were also delayed by OST due BIA officials hoping to roll out mental impact. Oklahoma House Government to the implementation of a new a finished product for public Minerals Council is try- Councilor Paul Revard, who Efficiency committee ing to avoid a repeat delay accounting system. review in May. The original did not attend the BIA’s Dec. OKLAHOMA CITY — The come March. “We represent the share- deadline was Jan. 6, but BIA 12 listening session, said he Oklahoma House of Repre- At its Dec. 18 meeting, holders,” Councilor Margo officials pushed back that has little hope that the study sentatives is one step closer the Osage Minerals Council Gray said. “To miss three date to accommodate busi- to attempting to address the unanimously approved a res- weeks of interest pay- ness days lost due to the three will actually benefit local oil number of missing and mur- olution directing its attorney, ments due to late checks federal holidays during the and gas production. dered Indigenous people state- Wilson Pipestem, to follow is inexcusable.” 45-day window. “I have no optimism that wide after Olivia “Libby” Gray, up with the Office of the Spe- In other business, the coun- As worded, the proposal of- this document will be sat- the director of the Nation cial Trustee to make sure the cil is looking at bringing on fers up four courses of action isfactory for producers or Family Violence Prevention spring headright checks are additional contractors to help the BIA could take with re- shareholders,” Revard said. “I Department testified before sent out on time and for the it wade through and quick- spect to environmental stan- anticipate having to go back to the committee. proper amount. ly respond to a county-wide dards for drilling permits. court over this.” 8 January 2020 Osage News • osagenews.org Osage News Holiday Gift Guide Osage News delicious meal! www.facebook.com/AhThaTse Christmas may be over but these Osage- owned businesses and artisans are open and • Bonnie Pratt, Moccasins and ready for business. Whether its birthday pres- Beadwork – (918) 287-6428 ents or just a special gift, these artists may • Hair Razors – give the gift of a makeover! have what you’ve been looking for. Hair, Nails, Shellac, Acrylic, Manicures, • Osage Nation Foundation – All proceeds Pedicures, Eye Lash extensions, cuts, benefit the Osage Nation Foundation for colors, perms, waxing, Retail items in the Osage citizenry. Christmas ornaments, stock, Spray tan. limited edition Pendleton blankets, Osage www.facebook.com/Hairrazors3434/ Nation flags, hats and more. www.osagefoundation.org • Osage Nation Visitors Center ON Education Department to – located at the corner of Lynn Avenue and Main Street in Pawhuska. They are currently host 4th Annual Science Fair not taking cards so have your Osage Nation Education Department Incentives are offered to cash handy! the science fair participants • Osage News 2020 Calendars – The Osage Nation Edu- along with awards for the The Osage News 2020 Calendar cation Department STEAM is filled with photos from this Program is hosting the 4th outstanding projects. Rib- bons are presented for 1st, year’s Inlonshka dances! Photos Annual Science Fair on Jan. by Cody Hammer, Morgan 2nd, and 3rd places in each 28-29 in collaboration with Kidder and Benny Polacca are featured. • Sunny Slope Boutique – Women’s the Environmental and Nat- category for each grade. Reserve your calendar by calling (918) 287- Clothing store. ural Resources Department, The Osage Nation Educa- 5668, email us at osagenews@osagenation- www.facebook.com/sunnyslopeboutique/ Child Care Program, and tion Department will also nsn.gov or message us on Facebook. • Osage Trading Company – Native the Prevention Program. All pay the entry fee for these • Spurs and Arrows – All things Osage American Tobacco, Pendleton Blankets, 7th and 8th grade students, presenters to participate County! Tees, Caps, Purses, Jewelry, Native American Jewelry, Shawls, BEX in the Bartlesville District Souvenirs, Pendleton & Home Goods attending a school district Sunglasses, Hy-O Silver Jewelry, Native www.facebook.com/spursandarrows/ in Osage County, are invit- Science Fair. Teachers who American Traditional Items. ed to attend. The event will bring students to the event • Supernaw’s Oklahoma Indian Supply www.facebook.com/osagetradingco be held, from 8:30 a.m. to 2 are rewarded with science – A Native American owned and operated • Waterbird Gallery – The Water Bird business since 1969 specializing in seed p.m. at the Osage County supplies for their classroom. Gallery features Native American Art, beads, cut beads, beading supplies, leather, Fairgrounds Ag Building Finally, the top five present- turquoise jewelry, new and vintage Native silver jewelry, Native American and the Women’s Building ers from each grade will American clothing/items, cedar chests, gifts www.supernaws.com in Pawhuska. receive a grand prize, to be and more! On Jan. 28, students from announced at a later date. • We.ome.pe Designs, Art and Jewelry www.facebook.com/TheWaterBirdGallery – Give the gift of Osage-themed jewelry! Avant, Skiatook, Wood- The 4th Annual STEAM Online store, jewelry, apparel, everything land, Hominy and Dapos- Science Fair is an event Books is 15% off until Dec. 7. Give the gift of literature by purchasing one ka Ahnkodapi schools will held for students, from local www.weomepedesigns.com of these books by Osage authors: compete at the science fair. schools, to gain knowledge • Addie Roanhorse, custom made leggings • “A Pipe for February,” by the late Charles Osage Hills, Pawhuska, and skills while engaging in Barnsdall, and Bowring stu- and apparel – Give the gift of Osage- Red Corn a fun activity. Working with themed leggings, scarves, hats, jewelry, dents plan to participate at • “The Deaths of Sybil Bolton,” by Dennis the school districts ensures artwork and more! the event on Jan. 29. The McAuliffe Osage children benefit from www.facebook.com/bigraingallery Education Department of- • “Colonial Entanglement,” by Jean the opportunity to not only • Amy’s Custom Creations, items and ten works in partnership Dennison participate in the event, but apparel – Adorable appliqué t-shirts for with these schools due to also see many interesting toddlers and kids. Lots of great vinyl shirts • “The Osages,” by the late John Joseph their large number of Osage projects, meet career profes- and other items! Embroidery for shawls, Mathews students. It is important for sionals, and experience the dance skirts and blankets. • “Osage Dictionary,” by Carolyn Quintero them to experience and un- www.facebook.com/ atmosphere of a science fair! • “Frybread for Addie,” by Mindy Standley derstand the possibilities of amytreatscustomcreations Osage Casinos will sponsor integrating science, technol- • “Addie, Be Brave,” by Mindy Standley lunch, water, and snacks for • The Fairfax Chief – Give the gift of a ogy, engineering, art, and paid subscription! • “Osage Indian Bands and Clans,” by the the participants. math concepts. www.facebook.com/FairfaxChief1 late Louis F. Burns • Sarah Megyn Kelley, Mary Kay • “An Eagle Nation,” by Carter Revard Cosmetics Consultant – Give the gift of • “Maria Tallchief: America’s Prima cosmetics and facial care! Ballerina,” by Larry Kaplan, Maria Preparation underway www.marykay.com/Skelley9614 Tallchief • Joe Don Brave, Art and Merchandise – • “The Osage Timeline,” by Lou Brock for 2020 Census Give the gift of art! • “Traditions of the Osage,” by Garrick www.facebook.com/joedonbraveart/ Benny Polacca ficials briefed news media out- Bailey • Robin West, Paparazzi Jewelry Osage News lets serving Native American • “Like a Hurricane: The Indian Movement Consultant - paparazziaccessories. communities on the status of from Alcatraz to Wounded Knee,” by Paul com/138219 Starting in March 2020, the census. Cathy Lacy, census Chaat Smith and Robert Warrior Osages and fellow U.S. cit- regional director for the Den- • Mina’s Baby Boutique – Give the gift of • “The People and the Word: Reading Native designer baby clothes! izens will be asked to par- ver U.S. Census Bureau, said Nonfiction,” by Robert Warrior minasbabyboutique.com/ ticipate in the 2020 Census 2020 will be the first year the • “Wedding Clothes and the Osage to update population data census will be available online • Reduced Lunch Photography – Give Community: A Giving Heritage,” by Daniel the gift of professional photography! for all 50 states, five U.S. and by phone call in an effort C. Swan and Jim Cooley Buy sessions for a friend or family, or territories and the District to reach more citizens. schedule your own. www.facebook.com/ of Columbia. In past years, as well as If there is a Osage-owned business left off ReducedLunchPhotography/ this list, please send the information to osage- The U.S. Constitution man- in 2020, the census would • Ah-Tha-Tse Catering – Give the gift of a [email protected]. dates the country to conduct be offered in paper form a population count once every mailed to households to fill 10 years and the 2020 Census out and mail back to the marks the 24th time the coun- Census Bureau. try has counted its population Census officials said most since 1790. households will receive an The census counts provide invitation to participate in “crucial data that lawmakers, mid-March 2020, but remote business owners, teachers and Alaska communities and some many others use to provide tribes will be enumerated in daily services products and person by census takers hired support for you and your com- locally. The remote Alaska op- munity. Every year, billions of eration will begin in January dollars in federal funding go 2020. to hospitals, fire departments, For Native American com- schools, roads and other re- munities, Dee Alexander, sources based on census data,” Tribal Affairs Coordinator for according to the 2020 Census the Census Bureau, said: “We website. have been working closely with The U.S. Census Bureau submitted the 2020 questions tribal governments for years to Congress for approval in on the best way to accomplish 2018. Those census questions our goal of counting everyone will include: Asking the num- in the 2020 Census.” ber of people residing in the At the Osage Nation, the home on April 1; whether the Self Governance and Strategic home is owned or rented; and Planning Office is in charge of the sex / age / race / relation- the 2020 U.S. Census outreach ship of each resident in the and has distributed flyers for home of the individual filling Census employment opportu- out the census, according to nities. the website. “We are offering competitive In the meantime, U.S. Cen- pay, flexible schedules, and sus officials are preparing for the opportunity for individuals next year by hiring workers to make a difference in their who will travel throughout own communities for the next various regions and communi- 10 years,” Lacy said. Individ- ties to conduct the census with uals interested in working on residents. the 2020 Census should visit On Nov. 14, U.S. Census of- www.2020census.gov/jobs. Osage News • osagenews.org January 2020 9 Osage Nation JOM Shared Blessings Meal gives hosts Christmas Handgame for students parents and grandparents Osage News The Osage Nation JOM programs got together and held a insight into Osage cooking handgame for area students. The Hominy JOM challenged the Pawhuska JOM to a handgame and the competition was in- Shannon Shaw Duty “One of the pillars of the side around the fire with Ja- tense. The cultural event taught students about the handgame, Osage News school is preserving cultural son Cass, who has served as how the handgame was played and encouraged the continuation knowledge,” Shackelford said. a fireman for Drumkeepers in of the tradition among Native youth. There are many Osag- “And cooking is a big compo- the past, showing them how es who were not born into a nent of an Osage way of life. hot a fire should be for certain family with cooks or a family It’s in everything we do, from dishes and how to know when camp at Inlonshka. There are handgames to Inlonshka, to certain dishes are done. those Osages who have nev- funeral dinners. We have to Fellowship happened have Osages who know how er served on a Drumkeeper’s among the parents as they committee, served as a cook or to cook this food.” came together to learn and a fireman, or been around an The menu for the meal cook the meal. There was Osage dinner. was frybread, meat gravy, much laughter and conver- Amy Shackelford, a grand- grape dumplings, dried corn daughter of the late Eva (corn soup/sweet corn), and sation throughout the day. Yates, a former Pawhuska steam fry. Their children and grand- District Head Cook for 10 The parents arrived around children played outside in years, noticed the parents of 10:30 a.m. and trimmed and the nice weather on the new the children going to school at cut pork and beef, paying close playground just outside Wa- Daposka Ahnkodapi needed a attention to how the meat was kon Iron. Williams is also on helping hand when it came to cut for the meat gravy. If the the Pawhuska Village Com- Osage cooking. meat is cut wrong the meat mittee and was instrumental She asked Marjorie Wil- will fall apart while cooking in getting the new playground liams, a long-time Inlonshka over the fire. equipment. She told parents All photos by SHANNON SHAW DUTY/Osage News cook who has also been voted Williams showed parents not to hesitate to call her [Disclaimer: Shaw Duty is also the president of the Pawhuska JOM.] People’s Choice at the Nation- how she mixes her fry bread when they needed help when The Osage Nation JOM Handgame has begun and it’s the Hominy Bucks al Indian Taco Champion- and how she makes her grape making a dish for their family versus the Pawhuska Huskies. The guessers are Pawhuska JOM Princess ships many times (her grape dumplings, with parents writ- and that she enjoyed cooking Mia Jones and Hominy JOM Princess Chloe Shadlow. dumplings are legendary) and ing down recipes and asking with them for the children. she is also a grandmother to questions. Williams also ex- By 5 p.m. the meal was students at Daposka Ahnko- plained that what she was ready and Anthony Shack- dapi. Williams brought her showing them was how she daughter Dora Williams to was taught and other families elford asked John Red Eagle help, who is also a teacher and districts, such as Homi- to pray for the meal. The ta- at Daposka Ahnkodapi. To- ny and Grayhorse, may cook ble was set Osage style, using gether they spent Nov. 24 things differently. She en- Williams’ dishes for the occa- with five families, teaching couraged parents to learn the sion. The parents fed about 50 them how to cook an Osage ways of their families or their family members and commu- meal over the fire from start district, if possible. nity members who were invit- to finish. Most of the men stayed out- ed to eat.

Students round dance between games on Dec. 22 at the Hominy Indian Village community building.

All Photos SHANNON SHAW DUTY/Osage News Parents and grandparents learn how to trim and Marjorie Williams shows parents and grandparents cut meat for meat gravy, dried corn (corn soup) and how to mix frybread dough. steam fry at Wakon Iron Hall in Pawhuska on Nov. 24.

Hominy JOM Princess Chloe Shadlow guesses against the Pawhuska JOM students at the Christmas JOM Handgame on Dec. 22.

Fathers learn how to keep the fire going underneath various Osage dishes at the Shared Blessings Meal.

Amy Shackelford rolls out dumplings for grape dump- lings as Jim Trumbly looks on at the Shared Blessings Meal. Children wait to eat the meal their parents helped to cook at the Shared Blessings Meal at Wakon Iron Hall JOM students compete in the Potato Dance at the Christmas JOM Hand- on Nov. 24. game on Dec. 22.

Families enjoy an Osage meal made at the Shared Blessings Meal on Nov. 24 at Wakon Iron Hall.

High School where he is a student athlete, is the featured youth speaker for the Association of American Indian Physicians. He spoke about the importance of good health in Native communities and keeping an active Evelyn Shackelford drinks her tea at the Shared Bless- lifestyle. He is the son of Will and Brooklyn Kemble. ings Meal on Nov. 24 at Wakon Iron Hall. 10 January 2020 Osage News • osagenews.org Pawhuska Village Christmas Party All photos by BENNY POLACCA Osage News

All photos by BENNY POLACCA/Osage News Attendees of the Dec.19 Pahsuelee Club Christmas party gather for a group photo at the event featuring dinner, fellowship and card games at the Osage Nation Senior/ Title XI building in Fairfax. Pahsuelee Club Christmas

Pawhuska village committee members Cherokee Cheshewalla, Fawn Cheshewalla and Marjorie Williams help verify bingo wins with number caller Fred Byers during the Dec. 21 village Christmas party held in the Wakon Iron community building.

The Dec.19 Pahsuelee Club Christmas party featured Beverly Brownfield, Jan Mansfield, Teresa Bates Ruth- card games of pitch and bingo for the Osage at- erford and Rhonda Wallace play pitch at the Dec. 19 tendees who mostly came from Fairfax, Hominy and Pahsuelee Club Christmas party in Fairfax. Grayhorse village.

Pawhuska Village residents play Bingo and enjoy a dinner from the Pawhuska Village Committee on Dec. 21.

Sandra Maker shuffles cards before a game during Marvin Stepson, Judy Tiger and Stacey Williams play the Pahsuelee Club Christmas party on Dec. 19 in pitch during the Pahsuelee Club’s Dec. 19 Christmas Fairfax. Party in Fairfax. Area students take part in Christmas Candy House Structure competition Classroom – Osage Nation Education Department • 1st – Hominy High School Osage Congratulations to the winners of the Language Class Christmas Candy House Structure competi- • Best Engineering Structure – Lonnie Ann tion hosted at the annual Holiday Market. Raise the Others Winners included: • Most Creative Architectural Design – Gentry Barbee 12 and under (child) – • Greatest Innovative Design – Gracie • 1st – Josiah Lieb Door prizes for the Bingo at the Pawhuska Village Committee Christmas Barbee • 2nd – Luiza Holding party on Dec. 21. • Best Use of Artistic Elements – St. John • 3rd – Paisley Weeden and Lee Family • Most Detailed Construction – The Malone 13 to 18 (teen) – Family • 1st – August Holding • Most Christmas Spirit – Jack No Ear Lieb • 2nd – Izzy Holding • People’s Choice – Hominy High School Osage Language Class 19 + (adult) – • 1st – Katura Weeden • Creative Artists – Emma Moore, Mylee Moore, Bronson Redeagle, Tawali Family – Redcorn, Sophie McFarland, Hethuska Raise the Others, and Tripp Barbee • 1st – Wildcat Family • 2nd – Redcorn Family Judges – Tamara Johnson, Skyler Ammons, and Mia Jones

Pawhuska village resident Teddy Williams pauses for photos after his bin- go win during the Dec. 21 village Christmas party. He drew a number for a prize following the bingo game and won a flat screen TV.

Courtesy Photos/ON Education

Pawhuska Village residents play Bingo and enjoy a dinner from the Pawhuska Village Committee on Dec. 21. Osage News • osagenews.org January 2020 11

ABOVE: Students from the Dance Maker Academy performed “The Nut- cracker” on Dec. 14-15 at the historic Constantine Theater in downtown Pawhuska.

BELOW: Lilliana Guillen, Osage, plays the Sugar Plum Fairy in Dance Mak- er Academy’s performance of “The Nutcracker” on Dec. 14 at the Con- stantine Theater in downtown Pawhuska.

All photo by CODY HAMMER/Osage News Faith Rackliff, Osage, played Clara in Dance Maker Academy’s performance of “The Nutcracker” at the Constan- tine Theater on Dec. 14. The Nutcracker

Students from the Dance Maker Academy performed “The Students from the Dance Maker Academy performed as an- Students from the Dance Maker Academy take their final bow Nutcracker” on Dec. 14-15 at the historic Constantine The- gels in “The Nutcracker” on Dec. 14-15 at the historic Con- after their performance of “The Nutcracker” on Dec. 14-15 at ater in downtown Pawhuska. stantine Theater in downtown Pawhuska. the historic Constantine Theater in downtown Pawhuska. The Gallery Experience raises more than $11,000 for Pawhuska schoolteachers Benny Polacca Osage News

In its second year, The Gal- lery Experience art-driven fundraiser topped its inaugu- ral year’s collection by $9,000 with a total of more than $11,000 raised from art pur- chases and live auction bids at the Dec. 5 event. Osage artist Addie Roan- horse hosted The Gallery Ex- perience fundraiser in support of Pawhuska Public School teachers at her Big Rain Gal- lery in downtown Pawhuska CODY HAMMER/Osage News for the second year in a row. Student Michaela Pratt, Osage, talks about her painting to a guest during BENNY POLACCA/Osage News The Gallery Experience re- The Gallery Experience art fundraiser at the Big Rain Gallery in Pawhuska ceived a sponsorship from A live auction is held to sell paintings donated for the Dec. 5 fundraiser on Dec. 5. Osage Casino, which helped The Gallery Experience. Big Rain Gallery owner Addie Roanhorse holds pay for costs associated with up the paintings up for bid with Ben Johnson Cowboy Museum Curator the event. Cody Garnett on auctioneer duty. “We raised over $11,000 to- night at the auction,” Roan- The Gallery Experience fea- auction started. Cody and Lau- horse said on her Instagram tured paintings on 12” x 12” ren Garnett, owner/ operators page. “I’m so proud and thank- canvases with many painted of the Ben Johnson Cowboy ful for the artists involved.” by Pawhuska school students, Museum in Pawhuska, pro- She also sits on Pawhuska’s as well as school teachers, lo- vided their auctioneer services Board of Education after win- cal community members and that night. ning a five-year term in the Osage artists who donated The 2018 inaugural Gallery school board election in early their works for the fundraiser Experience came as Oklahoma 2019. featuring several paintings on state funding for its schools This year, participating display for sale or up for auc- made headlines with teacher Osage artists included Yatika tion bid. walkouts in April protesting Fields, Alexandra Ponca Stock, Scores of local Pawhuska low salaries and lack of educa- Roxanne RedCorn, Skyler and Osage community mem- tion resources to do their jobs. Ammons, Roanhorse and her bers attended the event with Teachers in Oklahoma earn CODY HAMMER/Osage News brother Dante Biss-Grayson. purchases made before the about a third less than the aver- Pawhuska High School Band members perform Christmas music for age teachers’ pay nationwide, guests of The Gallery Experience on Dec. 5 in Pawhuska. according to a July 2019 USA Today article. The average an- nual pay in the state, adjusted to the cost of living, is $46,456, the lowest teacher salary of all states and considerably less than the U.S. average of almost $63,000. “Every penny will go di- rectly to every teacher in the Pawhuska Public School Dis- trict,” Roanhorse said. At the event, Roanhorse said her daughter, Anya Brezinski, and other art students are the reasons she helped put the event together. In past years, Roanhorse has hosted art workshops in Pawhuska BENNY POLACCA/Osage News and took note of students with Osage-owned Big Rain Gallery hosted The Gallery Experience on Dec. artistic talents. CODY HAMMER/Osage News 5 featuring artworks by Pawhuska students, Osage and schoolteacher Guests view a variety of paintings by Pawhuska school students at The artists. The fundraiser event is in support of the Pawhuska Public School See Gallery Gallery Experience, an art-driven fundraiser for Pawhuska Public School Teachers. —Continued on Page 19 teachers at the Big Rain Gallery Dec. 5. 12 January 2020 Osage News • osagenews.org

SHANNON SHAW DUTY/Osage News Birdhouses up for auction at the 2019 CASA Birdhouse Auction raised more than $2,200 on Dec. 6. All proceeds go toward office operations. All photos by SHANNON SHAW DUTY/Osage News The Osage Nation Museum hosted Holiday Fun Night Dec. 20 with Santahoodle hearing Christmas wishes from the children in attendance. Margaret Sisk was the winner of the Pawnee/Osage CASA Christmas ornament contest and received a Pendleton blanket. raises more than $2,200 Museum hosts Holiday Fun Night Osage News ta Claus’s Osage cousin, Santahoodle, stole the show. He took photos with the for operations expenses The Osage Nation Museum hosted kids and heard their Christmas wish- a Holiday Fun Night featuring Christ- es. Santahoodle also chose the winner Shannon Shaw Duty get CASA volunteers into the Pawnee mas Monologues and Pantomime by of the Ornament contest, Margaret Osage News Nation’s court. Moore also sits on CA- the drama class students of Dance Sisk. Sisk won a Pendleton blanket for SA’s board of directors. Maker Academy, taught by Jennifer her efforts. Thirty-one painted and decorat- “I am really thankful we are able Adair. Gift bags were given to all the chil- ed birdhouses by area and local art- to help Native children,” she said. “I Following the performances, a poetry dren in attendance and they also en- ists were for sale on Dec. 6 at the appreciate all the hard work Helen reading was held and a visit from San- joyed holiday food and treats. annual Pawnee/Osage CASA Bird- does.” house Auction, held at the Immac- CASA volunteers are assigned to ulate Conception Catholic Church abused and neglected children’s court in Pawhuska. cases in Osage and Pawnee counties The auction was the same night as and tribal courts. The volunteers the Osage Nation’s Christmas Carni- monitor living situations, school ac- val so turnout was low. Despite there tivities, and the children’s general well-being and report directly to the being less than 30 people in atten- judge handling the child’s case. dance, they managed to raise more To prepare for state and tribal cas- than $2,200 for operations expenses es, CASA volunteers not only com- for the CASA office. plete 30 hours of required training, The CASA program is made up of they also have 10 additional training volunteers who serve at-risk children hours on Osage and Pawnee history in court cases in both Pawnee and and cultural customs. Osage counties. Started in 2009, the CASA volunteers Linda and Andy CASA program takes on court cases Cravens attended the auction and in state and tribal courts and is the bought many birdhouses. only program in the United States “There are times when you say to that serves two tribal courts and two yourself, ‘Maybe I took this job too counties. This allows volunteers to cheap,’” Andy Cravens said. “But, follow the child’s case through multi- you look around and you realize ple jurisdictions. that you are the only friend these A former judge for the Pawnee Na- children have. tion, Terry Mason Moore, who now “Sign up, seriously, they need you.” serves as general counsel to Principal For more information about the Chief Geoffrey Standing Bear, said birdhouse auction, on becoming a CASA Director Helen Norris works CASA volunteer or to donate, contact very hard for the children of both (918) 762-3776 or visit the CASA web- counties and together they helped site at www.pawneeosagecasa.org.

SHANNON SHAW DUTY/Osage News TOP LEFT: This birdhouse by artist Jessica Rose- mary Harjo sold for $120 and was bought by Osage Nation Congresswoman Paula Stabler.

MIDDLE LEFT: This birdhouse, a tiny replica of an Osage Native American Church by Congress- woman Paula Stabler, sold for $85.

BOTTOM LEFT: This birdhouse painted by Osage artist Ben Brown sold for $225.

BENNY POLACCA/Osage News BELOW, TOP TO BOTTOM: Osage artist Ted Moore is presented with the Artist of the Year award during the 2019 Pawnee/ Osage CASA birdhouse auction fundraiser. The award is es- tablished in memory of Osage artist Suzy Moore whose daughter Candice Byrd (fourth from left) presented the plaque to Moore at the Dec. 6 event in Pawhuska.

Osage artist Ted Moore discusses his decorat- ed birdhouse during the 2019 Pawnee/ Osage CASA fundraiser auction in Pawhuska on Dec. 6. See more photos on page 15. Osage News • osagenews.org January 2020 13 UOSC gathering features updates from Osage Nation officials in Carlsbad Benny Polacca tation toward the ongoing debate in land (the Osage reservation) in 1872, to hear from you guys that these are Osage News which Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt is it wasn’t given to us, wasn’t set aside your priorities.” seeking to renegotiate the gaming com- by some document, we purchased it In closing, Edwards encouraged the CARLSBAD, Calif. – Osage constit- pacts with the gaming tribes to seek a straight up from Cherokee Nation and constituents to fill out any available uents and their families enjoyed fel- higher percentage of exclusivity fees got a deed for it,” Standing Bear said, paperwork while participating in the lowship and heard updates from Osage paid to the state. Also at issue is the adding the Congress passed ONCR 19- planned ON strategic plan update ac- Nation officials who joined them here tribes contend the compacts automati- 19 rejecting Stitt’s claim the gaming tivities, which included a Dec. 7 com- for the United Osages of Southern Cal- cally renew while Stitt disagrees. compact must be renegotiated during munity meeting back at the Senior ifornia fall gathering on Nov. 2. “We have had an agreement with the 2019 Tzi-Zho Session, which he Center. She added: “Please, during More than 70 people attended the the state for 15 years to allow the agrees with and signed. sessions or any time you think ‘hey, I second of two UOSC gatherings held most profitable types of games called For the film project Killers of the really want to call my Congress people, this year at the Carlsbad Senior Cen- Class III to be played in the casinos all Flower Moon, Standing Bear noted the I want to write to my Congress people ter to visit, network and hear from throughout the state,” Standing Bear recently discussed plans to film the and tell them this is how I feel going ON government officials visiting from said. “We believe it automatically rolls Martin Scorsese-directed movie in the forward’ because people do have differ- Oklahoma during the day-long event. over (when the current compacts with Nation. He noted the November cast- ent priorities,” she said. That day, the gathering opened with 34 of 39 Oklahoma tribes expire) … I ing calls for film extras and speaking Congresswoman Maria Whitehorn a prayer by Osage language instruc- attended (an Oct. 28) meeting with 31 roles, which were held in Pawhuska, said she is in her seventh year of serv- tor Christopher Cote and the Pledge of gaming tribes and the Attorney Gen- Tulsa and Oklahoma City with the fo- ing and previously served as Speak- Allegiance led by former UOSC Chair- eral for the state of Oklahoma (Mike cus on Osages first and other Native er and now serves on Congressional man Bill Myers. Hunter) attended with his staff and Americans. committees including Appropriations, Principal Chief Geoffrey Standing the Governor’s staff. The only thing Standing Bear said he encouraged Commerce, Gaming & Land, and Con- Bear, along with ON Congress mem- we could agree upon is we have a Osages to go try out at the auditions gressional Affairs. She said the com- bers and government officials joined major dispute.” with a quip: “A lot of Osages are saying mittee work is constant pertaining to the attendees to provide updates from In mid-December, Hunter an- ‘I’m not going to do it’ and I tell them money and noted one issue the Appro- their respective offices. nounced he is stepping away from the ‘look, go get your shawl, get your blan- priations Committee needs to look at is Standing Bear noted the Congress gaming compact renegotiation efforts ket and go do it’ and I said ‘look, I’m a possible deficit for the Nation’s indi- passed the budgets and funding for di- and turned the dispute back to Stitt, telling you if you don’t do it and you see rect cost pool, which is funding recol- rect assistance programs available to who said he would continue the renego- somebody else in that background or lected from departments/ programs to enrolled Osages for the current 2020 tiation efforts with hired legal counsel. sitting there being extras, I don’t want fund shared administrative services fiscal year during the Tzi-Zho Ses- Standing Bear said the tribes are to hear you in the movie theater saying including human resources and infor- sion. Those direct assistance amounts trying to avoid the conflict “and we’re ‘Aww, what’s she doing up there? That mation technologies. passed by Congress – and signed into all in this together. It took Gov. Stitt could’ve been me!’” Whitehorn acknowledged Osage Ca- law by Standing Bear are: $8 million to unite the Oklahoma tribes for the For the government relations, Stand- sino CEO Byron Bighorse, who also for the health benefit fund for Osages first time ever.” He said the Nation’s ing Bear said he believes “we’ve done attended the gathering, for the casino under age 65; $4.5 million for elders government receives annual dividends alright” with Chad Renfro and Addie operations to bring in tribal revenue, Medigap insurance Plan F and Plan D (approximately $50 million in the 2020 Roanhorse as ambassadors for the gov- but stated she believes the Gaming En- health benefit programs; and $8.5 mil- fiscal year) to fund the departments, ernment’s exchanges with Scorsese terprise will not be able to distribute lion for higher education scholarships staff and direct assistance programs and his team, “but we can’t guarantee more money to the government because “You have to remember the last five “and that money is what is at risk.” what that movie’s going to look like, “they too have plans too for the casino, years, we are serving and doing twice Standing Bear said the current let’s hope it’s what they say, they treat the casino needs to move forward, we as much with the same amount of em- Class III gaming fees paid to the state us with respect on the painful subject, need to keep fresh, we need to keep our ployees,” Standing Bear said adding: are 4-6% on gaming machines and 10% I hope it’s an Academy Award winner.” client base that we have, so we need to “Most of whom are now Osages, five on table games. “If you raise them to Congressional Speaker Joe Tillman, get better about more money because years ago, one-third were Osage, two- where Gov. Stitt wants to raise them who was elected by his colleagues to we can’t do anything else more for the thirds were not … and we pay them to – which is modeled after the Pequot the post in spring 2019, said he feels people until we get more income.” well. You have to compete, we lose (who own the Foxwoods Casino Resort “blessed and fortunate” to be in the As for legislative plans regarding Osage employees to ConocoPhillips in Connecticut) and others at 25%, that company of four previous Speakers also economic development, Whitehorn or others, it happens in a competitive comes off our top and we still have to serving on the Sixth ON Congress with said she’s filed a bill to amend Osage market … The costs are going up inter- pay our overhead costs and everything him. Tillman described his job as a li- law for the Nation’s economic develop- nally, on our health cards and we are that’s involved … the consequences aison with the Executive Branch and ment fund to add criteria for appropri- really counting on our casinos to keep to that distribution to all these pro- “Chief Standing Bear and I have devel- ation requests out of the fund, which up the good work … that’s not our only grams and all these funds I mentioned oped a good rapport as we go forward.” include detailed budgets. “It’s import- source of funding, we have a couple of is significant.” With the 2019 Tzi-Zho Session com- ant that you stay engaged with us … I million from our Tax Commission and “It’s something worth defending be- pleted in time for the 2020 fiscal year, hope that you do look at what we do at our federal (grant) fundings that we cause that’s our money, the state never Tillman noted the Congress appro- the Nation, I hope that you do pick up continue (to receive).” gave us a dime to build any casino on priated $52,078,969 for the FY 2020 the phone and call us,” Whitehorn said Standing Bear shifted his presen- our land – in our case we bought our government operations and direct ser- in closing. vices. The remaining unappropriated Congressman John Maker reminded revenue in the general fund as of Oct. the attendees there will be two ques- 1 is $666,399 and the remaining in the tions on the June 2020 general election retained revenue fund is $1.5 million, ballot after both questions received Tillman said. In the 24-day session, Congressional approval in early 2019 Tillman said 45 Congressional commit- in separate resolutions. One question tee meetings occurred; 44 bills/ reso- asks voters (ONCR 19-07 sponsored by lutions filed for the session along with Congresswoman Alice Goodfox) wheth- other pending bills/ resolutions for a to- er the Principal Chief and Assistant tal of 59 considered during the session. Principal Chief should run for office The Congress passed and sent 27 bills/ on a single/ combined ticket. The sec- resolutions for the Principal Chief’s ond question (ONCR 18-20 sponsored signature; four bills/ resolutions failed by Maker and co-sponsored by Good- and four were withdrawn, he said. fox) asks whether the Nation’s elect- Tillman said economic development ed and retained officials serving in all is still critical for the Nation to increase three branches should be subject to its revenue. “There are wants and there term limits. are needs that people come to us with “Anything that changes the Consti- and if you want something, I gotta put tution has to be voted on by the people, what’s needed first – our children and by you and I think it’s a good thing to our elders are the most important that get all our Osage people involved in our we have – that’s what we have to take government,” Maker said. care of first.” Congresswoman Paula Stabler made Congresswoman Shannon Edwards her first visit to a UOSC gathering af- said the Legislative Branch is charged ter winning the 2018 election and dis- with how to appropriate the Nation’s cussed some of her past engagements funds “in my opinion for the best in- with the Nation. In the early years of terest of all Osages, and it’s a difficult the annual Cultural Walk (now the task, it’s particularly not fun when you Cultural Encampment held at the ON get confronted by people who tell you Ranch), Stabler told the attendees she that they don’t want you to do this or served as a cook in helping feed the 50- that, they want you to do something plus attendees who participated in the else … It’s very stressful, but I just try overnight camping experience. to remember we’ve got 21,000 tribal “One of the things I always refer members, we are moving forward, we back to is we have only three remain- are doing things we couldn’t do in the ing Indigenous villages out of dozens past and hopefully at some point we we had before so, one of the big proj- will be able to bring that economic de- ects I was able to work on (while serv- velopment to light and that will help us ing as Pawhuska Village Committee a lot.” chairwoman) was the dance arbor, it Edwards shared some data on some was quite an experience. Now the next of the direct assistant programs, which round is going to be community build- notes approximately 16,000 Osages ings (plans are underway for a new participate in the health benefit pro- Pawhuska building and the Grayhorse grams and 79% of the people enrolled village community building is under in the health benefit are using it. She construction) and the reason this is also noted employment costs at the Na- important is because we are the cul- tion are up approximately $2.9 million, ture – not the things we wear, not the which includes new positions and pay things we put on the table so much, but grade revisions as part of the appropri- us as an embodiment,” Stabler said. ation requests to the Congress. “Once these community buildings get “Our income’s basically flat, I want finished, these projects will be done for everyone to be careful when they read decades. The old buildings we used, we when you hear we don’t have enough used them for about 50 years in each money to fund (xyz), we do, it’s just district and they finally just wear out about priorities,” Edwards said. For … But they have a meaningful pur- the health benefit, Edwards said “we’re pose, we have to be a cultural people to spending about $600,000 per month, remain a nation or tribe of Indians and so the total for this year to date is so that’s important.” $5.8 million, that’s anticipated, we’re David Conrad, president and exec- tracking it, we can afford it, we can See Uosc afford our scholarships … we have —Continued on Page 15 14 January 2020 Osage News • osagenews.org

What ‘The Irishman’ tells Osages Through the Ruby Hansen Murray Osage News Culture Columnist WahZhaZhe Looking Glass

The Irishman is Martin Scors- ese’s latest film, a period piece with lush color and cinematography that makes you feel you’re sitting with mob hitman Frank Sheeran while he tells you his life story. Hailed as a masterpiece, it’s an example of Scors- ese’s style and strengths that offers Osages a glimpse of what we may see in a Scorsese adaptation of David Grann’s “Killers of the Flower Moon.” Adapted from Charles Brandt’s book “I Heard You Paint Houses,” The Irishman focuses on Sheeran, the hitman who killed Teamsters boss Jimmy Hoffa and the interne- Ruby Hansen Murray cine political struggles between the Teamsters union, organized crime another, I felt I’d seen one more Ma- and Congress. Scorsese brings it fia movie. There was blood spatter on to life with a screenplay by Ste- the walls, the matter-of-fact business ven Zaillian and a phenomenal vi- of strangling someone, the challenge sual feast by two-time Academy of disposing of murder weapons and Award-nominated cinematographer a victim fed through a leaf shredder. Rodrigo Prieto. In the final scenes, Sheeran sits Legendary actors Robert De Niro, alone in an elder care facility, trying Al Pacino and Joe Pesci carry the to remember the words for confession three-and-a-half hour film. A com- from his childhood Catholic faith, puter-assisted de-aging process al- while a priest tries to wring any lows 76-year-old De Niro to play shreds of remorse from him, asking, Sheeran as a soldier in World War II “Do you feel anything?” into old age. We meet Sheeran, who In July, Scorsese met with Prin- was a Teamster boss and Jimmy Hof- cipal Chief Geoffrey Standing Bear fa’s enforcer, friend and murderer, at to talk about filming “Flowers of the the end of his life, alone in an assist- Killer Moon,” and he returned for a ed living facility. community dinner with members of While Scorsese says he’s commit- the Grayhorse District in November. ted to exploring salvation, this is still He’s held Osage only casting calls a gangster movie. Routine violence is and is asking for Osage artisans and interwoven with intimate, believable workers. Costume designers have family moments. In an interaction consulted with Osages at White Hair that’s familiar to any child, Joe Pesci, Memorial and the Nation’s Cultural (Russell Bufalino) awkwardly tries to Center and are seeking input from connect with his protégé Sheeran’s Osages willing to share their family’s daughter. The scene is shot from be- blankets and clothes. hind the girl, while De Niro holds her I look forward to seeing Osage hand, trying to pull her closer and friends on the screen, and Osage make her discomfort less obvious. County bustling as it was in the The film is timely with Congres- 1920s, but this is a complicated histo- sional investigative hearings and ref- ry with impacts that still reverberate erences to corruption and Watergate through Osage families. The clothing era political figures. Still, when the details will give Scorsese the authen- film was over, even after appreciating ticity that is important to his films, the 1970s clothing details, the exqui- but “The Irishman” doesn’t tell us site color, the ethnic slurs between how he will portray the Osages who one branch of an Italian family and were the victims of violence.

All photos courtesy of the Osage Nation Museum Facebook page LOOKING GLASS PHOTOS AT RIGHT, FROM TOP TO BOTTOM: Stanlee Anne Bigheart on Osage Cradleboard, August 5, 1944, Williams Studio, Pawhuska, Oklahoma, Williams, pho- tographer, Hand-colored photograph.

Hand-colored studio portrait of infant Stanlee Anne Bigheart on an Osage cradleboard. In- fant is wrapped in swaddling cloth and secured with a fingerwoven belt. Beadwork straps secure the decorated roll bar in place, and stabilized by corded rope at the base of the board.

MIDDLE: Edward Lookout on Osage Cradleboard, Ca. 1940s, Williams Studio, Pawhuska, OK, Williams, photographer, Hand-colored photograph

Hand-colored studio portrait of infant Edward Lookout on an Osage cradleboard. Infant is wrapped in white swaddling cloth. Beadwork embroidered straps secure the decorated roll bar in place, stabilized by yarn cordage at the base of the board.

BOTTOM: Liza Tallchief with Grandchild on Osage Cradleboard, Ca. 1920s, Fairfax, Oklaho- ma, Photographer unknown, Black & White Photograph

Liza Tall Chief is seated in the foreground holding her grandchild, an infant on an Osage cradleboard. She wears a white, long sleeve button up shirt, a fringed shawl and moccasins. The infant is drinking from a glass bottle. An embroidered shawl is draped loosely from the cradleboard. An unidentified woman stands inside the home behind a screened door wear- ing period clothing.

Per an agreement with the Osage Nation Museum, these photos were purposely blurred as they can only be reproduced in the actual printed newspaper, not any other format, including this electronic version of the Osage News. To see the original images, get a copy of the latest printed issue of the Osage News or visit the Osage Museum. Osage News • osagenews.org January 2020 15

expensive. It is expensive to ri is still being considered for Uosc get into government contract- possible gaming expansion for –from Page 13 ing, you have to have a certain the Nation. “We’ve identified a utive director of Osage Na- amount of soft infrastructure parcel of land” and will start tion Environmental Solutions in place to be in compliance due diligence process, which (ONES) LLC also attended the and to meet the requirements includes submitting a land UOSC gathering and spoke on of the federal contracts, but into federal trust application possible solutions to address there is a lot of money and for land used for gaming pur- expanding economic develop- a big federal market that poses, he said, “it could be very ment (aside from gaming) for we’re tracking.” transformative for us because the Nation. The comments Conrad also offered the we could be the only (Oklaho- followed the 2019 Congres- idea of establishing a com- ma) tribe in the state of Mis- sional Tzi-Zho Session where merce department in the souri to operate gaming. Right the Congress voted down a bill Executive Branch and Con- now, there are 13 commercial (ONCA 19-81) in September gressional staff expansion so licenses in the state … they’re that sought a $500,000 appro- both branches can “be able to all water-based casinos, they priation to the Nation’s eco- evaluate performance of ap- pay about 26% tax, we would nomic development fund. propriations and looking at be the only tribal-based casino Conrad gave a rundown of All Photos by Shannon Shaw Duty / Osage News (business) risk profiles … I in Missouri, so that could be professional services provid- think (economic development) very lucrative, so keep us in Students from Dance Maker Academy perform Ashes, an original work ed by ONES LLC including choreographed by Jenna Smith, Osage. deserves a dialogue with folks your thoughts and prayers on streamlining NEPA permit- who have experience in busi- that one.” ting, helping people do reme- ness, government contracting That day, the UOSC attend- dial action plans and activities … We know the experience we ees also heard presentations associated with getting envi- just had, but we can’t be afraid from ON Historic Preserva- ronmental permits done for in- of it, we have to move forward tion staff Courtney Neff and frastructure projects (i.e. roads and we have to know what archeologist James Munkres, and bridges). those problems were, fix them as well as a language presen- “In thinking about econom- and move forward.” tation by Cote. ic diversification, I think the Bighorse said construction UOSC Chairman Greg Cla- main point is we have to sup- on the 145-room second hotel vier said 76 people signed in port it systematically and it tower at the flagship Tulsa to attend the fall gathering, has to be a sustained level of Osage Casino Hotel is continu- adding there were Osages who effort,” Conrad said. “When ing and he expects completion RSVPed to attend, but had to I joined (ONES in 2017), I in August. When the second cancel due to Southern Cali- had just completed 6.5 years tower opens, the casino will fornia wildfires causing traffic in the federal government have about 285 rooms total, disruptions and evacuations (working in the environmen- Bighorse said adding “I think that weekend. Susan Shannon, Osage writer and poet, hosted the Osage Nation Muse- tal planning/ policy sector) in you’ll be very proud of what “I had some extremely pos- um’s Poetry Reading & Open Mic on Sept. 28. She also read her own poet- Washington, D.C. and when you see, it’s a first class oper- itive feedback from UOSC ry for the event, as did other writers in the audience. I joined the company, there ation, we are right there with members. The ‘World Famous’ was no requirement for an an- works and to recognize emerg- our competition” with 100-plus UOSC Opportunity Drawing nual financial disclosure for Poetry ing and established writers. tribal casinos in Oklahoma, and 50/50 took in a total of –from Page 4 We are fortunate to have business, there’s a number of which has 39 federally recog- $517.00,” Clavier said. “We Osage poet, Susan Shannon to these types of things that we nized tribes. use the funds generated from encounters and unexplainable coordinate this new series.” could implement to help safe- Other Oklahoma plans in the Opportunity Drawing and events to an enraptured audi- Susan Shannon is recog- guard the Nation’s investment the works are new Osage Ca- the 50/50 for organization sup- ence. nized for her radio show In- in start-up operations of com- sino properties for Bartlesville plies. Prior to the Fall Gather- The latest poetry reading dian Times that she produced panies and I think we need and Pawhuska, Bighorse said. ing the organization purchased was held in conjunction with for KGOU. Describing her per- to sit down and have an open “Those are some projects that the museum’s Holiday Fun a small HP laptop. We were spective on the value of poetry, and frank dialogue about how we are going to approach Con- able to use the laptop for the Night. Susan said, “I consider poetry that occurs, we can’t just say gress (with) this year to talk digital presentations.” Museum Director, Marla as the last bastion of protest. ‘oh, the first (Osage LLC) was about funding for the future, Clavier said the UOSC Redcorn-Miller said in a pre- Sometimes the only thing a disaster, we’re abandoning pared release, “The Poetry we can control in our lives is those are projects that are spring 2020 gathering is and Open Mic event, which what we write and what we economic diversification and going to be about $65 million scheduled March 28 and will will become a regular feature say. Spoken word is a way to I don’t think that’s really fair worth of construction, so that’s be focused on Osage candi- throughout the year, is a sup- express ourselves, to educate to say government contracting something to think about.” dates running for Congress in portive space to share new and to entertain.” is off the table because it’s too Bighorse also noted Missou- the general election. Classifieds November 2019 16 OSAGE NATION JOBS: To Dual Modality Radiologic Tech- signed staff, ensuring effective and professional service to every and performed as efficiently and apply for a position with the nologist – Pawhuska, regular internal and external communi- guest encountered. effectively as possible. Osage Nation go to https:// full time. Provides diagnostic cations, exercising appropriate Restaurant Server – Ponca City, Security Officer – Skiatook, www.osagenation-nsn.gov/ radiological procedures within judgment and decision-making regular part time. This position opportunities/job-listings/ap- scope of practice, including re- skills, and ensuring that all de- regular full time. Protects com- is responsible for taking orders pany assets and provides a safe plication-form. Applicants ceiving and preparing patients partmental and staff activities and serving food, alcoholic and/ environment for employees and are welcome to attach a re- and equipment for procedures are monitored and performed or non-alcoholic beverages. Re- sume and/or cover letter in and maintaining supplies for as efficiently and effectively as sponsible for proper settlement guests. To perform this job suc- addition. Please note that the radiology department. Pro- possible. Ensures assigned staff of all transactions at point of cessfully, an individual must be all applicants tentatively se- duces high quality radiographs operate in compliance with ap- sale. Responsible for providing able to perform each essential lected for employment with with a minimum of repeats plicable internal policies and friendly and professional service job duty satisfactorily. The re- the Osage Nation will be while handling multiple room procedures, gaming regulations, to every guest encountered. quirements listed below are rep- required to submit to a uri- assignments and different types and external agency require- resentative of the knowledge, nalysis to screen for illegal of exams on a daily basis. ments. SAND SPRINGS drug use. Employment will skill and/or ability required. LPN Case Manager – Pawhus- Maintenance Technician – Bar- EVS Attendant – Sand Springs, be contingent upon drug test Individual must be at least 18 ka, regular full time. The LPN tlesville, regular full time. This regular full time. Under direct results. OSAGE / VETERAN years of age. Case Manager will coordinate position is responsible for the supervision of the Housekeep- / INDIAN PREFERENCE activities within the WZZHC to overall maintenance, plumbing, ing Supervisor, transfers clean Short Order Cook – Skiatook, IS CONSIDERED. Verifica- benefit the patient, payer, and and electrical components of the and dirty linens and trash to/ regular full time. Under general tion of preference must be provider, as the patient moves building and grounds. from Laundry and Room At- supervision of the Food & Bev- included with application. across the continuum of care. tendants. Assists with stocking For questions please contact EVS Attendant - Bartlesville, erage Supervisor, maintains an The Case Manager will assist other items as needed by Room Taryn Crawford, Osage Na- regular full time. Under direct efficient food operation by pre- patients in achieving optimal Attendants. Ensures cleanliness tion Employee Recruitment supervision of the Housekeep- paring hot and cold food items levels of wellness, self-man- of entire property public areas Specialist at (918) 287-5445 ing Supervisor, transfers clean in accordance with production agement, and functioning both inside and outside the ca- or email tcrawford@osagena- and dirty linens and trash to/ requirements, recipes and es- capability. sino. Responsible for banquet tion-nsn.gov. from Laundry and Room At- events set up, teardown, and tablished safety policies and Nursing Assistant – Pawhuska, tendants. Assists with stocking Constituent Services Coordi- clean up. Responsible for mov- procedures. regular full time. The Nursing other items as needed by Room nator – Pawhuska, regular full ing furniture, boxes, stocking Assistant provides nursing sup- Attendants. Ensures cleanliness Restaurant Server – Skiatook, time. The Constituent Services and re-stocking shelves, trash port assistance to physicians, of entire property public areas regular full time. This position Coordinator will be responsi- removal, and completes other other providers, and nurses in both inside and outside the ca- is responsible for taking orders ble for providing support to the duties as assigned. the care and treatment of pa- sino. Responsible for banquet and serving food, alcoholic and/ Office of the Chiefs and to the Maintenance Technician – Sand tients throughout the life span. events set up, teardown, and or non-alcoholic beverages. Re- Osage Nation constituents and Springs, regular full time. This Grants Management Specialist clean up. Responsible for mov- sponsible for proper settlement who request assistance in re- position is responsible for the gards to available direct services, – Pawhuska, regular full time. ing furniture, boxes, stocking of all transactions at point of and re-stocking shelves, trash overall maintenance, plumbing, i.e.; Constituent Concerns and The Office of Strategic Planning sale. Responsible for providing removal, and completes other and electrical components of the Complaints, Burial Assistance, & Grants Management (SPGM) friendly and professional service duties as assigned. building and grounds. Donation Requests, Health Ben- is responsible for the develop- to every guest encountered. efits, Regional Gathering Fund ment and compliance of each Food and Beverage Supervisor Armed Security Officer – Sand and general requests/referrals grant awarded to the Osage Na- – Bartlesville, regular full time. Springs, regular full time. Pro- TULSA tects company assets and pro- for the Osage Nation. Execute tion. The Grants Management Under general supervision of the Banquet Server – Tulsa, regular Specialist is responsible for re- vides a safe environment for requests efficiently and effec- Food and Beverage Manager, full time. The Banquet Server tively. Must have a genuine searching grant opportunities employees and guests. This manages day-to-day supervision are wait staff performing food concern for constituent requests and matching them with exist- of food and beverage operations position requires a welcoming preparation, serving, and clean- and be dedicated to fulfill their ing Osage Nation departments, which includes point of sale disposition and both strong ing duties at company banquets, needs. programs, and projects; working transactions, quality, guest sat- communication and interactive with Osage Nation Department skills, as this is the first Osage special events and special din- Budget Analyst- Legislative isfaction, and inventory of stock. Directors and the Office of the Casino Employee to greet visi- ners. Banquet Servers are re- Branch – Pawhuska, regular full Short Order Cook –Bartlesville , Chief’s to develop proposal con- tors and answer phones. sponsible for a positive guest time. This position analyzes cur- cepts; providing support to De- regular full time. Under general rent and past budgets, reviews SKIATOOK experience for all Osage Casi- partment Directors in writing, supervision of the Food & Bev- and justifies budget requests, nos guest attending company developing budgets, and all as- erage Supervisor, maintains an Surveillance Officer – Skiatook, and suggest allocation of funds events. pects of a complete grant pro- efficient food operation by pre- regular full time. This position according to spending priorities. posal package; working with a paring hot and cold food items is responsible for protecting all Security Officer – Tulsa, regular Prepare detailed budget charts, proposal review committee; and in accordance with production Osage Casino assets and main- full time. Protects company as- graphs, tables, and spread- requirements, recipes and es- taining the integrity of gaming ensuring that all grant propos- sets and provides a safe enjoin- sheets as needed in support of a als are submitted in a timely tablished safety policies and in the Osage Casinos utilizing variety of budgetary and special ment for employees and guest. fashion. procedures. all Surveillance equipment and projects. Assist with drafting Guest Service Representative – floor observations. This employ- Banquet Server – Tulsa, reg- budgets for legislative purposes. Clinical Pharmacist – Pawhus- Bartlesville, regular full time. ee sole responsibility is to ob- ular part time. The Banquet The Budget Analyst prepares a ka, regular full time. The Staff This position is responsible for serve and report. The Employee Server are wait staff performing “fiscal impact analysis” for any Pharmacist is responsible for the providing casino visitors with must perform all duties in ac- food preparation, serving, and proposed piece of legislation delivery of pharmacy services cordance with the internal pol- maximum guest satisfaction. cleaning duties at company ban- that will have a financial effect including all drug distribution icies, procedures, and controls, quets, special events and special on the Osage Nation. services and clinical pharmacy Bartender – Bartlesville, reg- as well, as applicable laws and services. The Staff Pharmacist ular part time. Under gener- dinners. Banquet Servers are Maintenance Tech II – Pawhus- gaming regulations. advises and provides technical al supervision of the Beverage responsible for a positive guest ka, regular full time. The Bartender – Skiatook, regular expertise/leadership in the areas Supervisor, maintain the bar experience for all Osage Casi- Maintenance Technician is re- full time. Under general super- of medication selection, procure- area. Provides excellent custom- nos guest attending company sponsible for the overall mainte- vision of the Beverage Super- ment, storage, ordering, prepar- er service in a timely manner. nance of structures and grounds visor, maintain the bar area. events. ing, dispensing, billing, delivery, Prepare all drink orders, deliv- of the Osage Nation. The Main- Provides excellent customer administration and monitoring. ers and refills drink orders, and Armed Security Officer – Tul- tenance Tech I must perform The Staff Pharmacist provides service in a timely manner. Pre- sa, regular full time. Protects miscellaneous tasks requiring responds to quest questions and leadership and assurance that pare all drink orders, delivers company assets and provides a hand labor for the development requests. Handle all payment effective and safe medication and refills drink orders, and re- safe environment for employees and maintenance of tribal lands transactions accurately. practices are followed through- sponds to quest questions and and structures. Responsible for HOMINY and guests. This position re- out the Wahzhazhi Health cen- requests. Handle all payment overall maintenance, plumbing, quires a welcoming disposition ter. Security Officer – Hominy, reg- transactions accurately. and electrical components of and both strong communication ular full time. Protects compa- Security Supervisor – Skia- Osage Nation Education De- and interactive skills, as this is Tribal buildings. ny assets and provides a safe partment Internship – Hominy, took, regular full time. Protects Family Coordinator – Pawhus- environment for employees and the first Osage Casino Employ- temporary full time. The Osage company assets and provides a ka, regular full time. The Fam- guests. To perform this job suc- ee to greet visitors and answer Nation Education Department safe environment for employ- ily Coordinator will promote cessfully, an individual must be phones Internship Program is designed ees and guests. Supervises shift coordination and integration of able to perform each essential to provide Osage students with operations as assigned by the Maintenance Engineer, Electri- family-centered care to ensure job duty satisfactorily. The re- work experience in their chosen reporting senior including, but cal – Tulsa, regular full time. participation and involvement quirements listed below are rep- field of study. The program is not limited to: providing leader- This position is responsible for of the entire family. He/she will resentative of the knowledge, designed to serve enrolled mem- ship to assigned staff, ensuring provide and maintain quality skill and/or ability required. the overall renovation, planned bers of the Osage Nation with a effective internal and external helping services to clients, and Individual must be at least 18 maintenance of electrical com- minimum of 61+ hours complet- communications, exercising will assist clients in their at- years of age. ponents, including motors, con- ed in an accredited college or appropriate judgment and de- tempt to reach individual treat- trollers, light control system, university degree program. The Short Order Cook – Hominy , cision-making skills, and ensur- ment goals. and LV distribution on assigned intern program also accepts ap- regular full time. Under general ing that all departmental and Direct Services Case Worker – plications from students who are supervision of the Food & Bev- staff activities are monitored properties and grounds. Pawhuska, regular full time. enrolled in their final 9 weeks of erage Supervisor, maintains an The Direct Services Case Work- vocational technology programs. efficient food operation by pre- er will directly interact with the Applicants are required to carry paring hot and cold food items Osage Nation constituents who a 2.5 or higher-grade point aver- in accordance with production request assistance in regards age in the semester previous to requirements, recipes and es- to available direct services, i.e.; application. Please review the tablished safety policies and Burial Assistance, Regional ONE Higher Scholarship Hand- procedures. Gathering Fund and general book for limitations and incen- PAWHUSKA request/referral for Osage Na- tives. tion Services Information and Short Order Cook – Pawhuska, OSAGE CASINO JOBS: To efficiently execute requests for regular full time. Under general apply for a position with services. Must have a genuine supervision of the Food & Bev- Osage Casino go to www. concern for constituent requests erage Supervisor, maintains an osagecasinos.com/careers and be dedicated to fulfill their efficient food operation by pre- needs. BARTLESVILLE paring hot and cold food items in accordance with production Shelter Advocate – Pawhuska, Facilities Supervisor – Bartles- requirements, recipes and es- regular full time. The Shelter ville, regular full time. Respon- Advocate is responsible provid- sible for the overall effective tablished safety policies and ing advocacy, information, re- and efficient supervision of all procedures. ferrals and related services to Facilities shift operations as PONCA CITY assigned by the reporting se- victims of domestic violence, Bartender – Ponca City, reg- nior including, but not limited stalking, sexual assault, and ular part time. Under general Assistant Election Supervisor Courtney Piearcy and Election Supervisor to: providing leadership to as- human sex trafficking. supervision of the Beverage Su- Alexis Rencountre tabulated the votes for the 2019 Hominy Village Com- pervisor, maintain the bar area. mittee election on Dec. 3. Provides excellent customer OSAGE NATION RANCH service in a timely manner. Pre- Election pare all drink orders, delivers –from Page 3 Grazing leases are available from the Osage and refills drink orders, and re- Nation Ranch in Osage County, Oklahoma. sponds to quest questions and At 8:17 p.m., Rencountre announced the village election re- Approximately 1,097 Cow/calf pairs and requests. Handle all payment sults as follows: Shadlow- 14, DeRoin- 14, Wetselline- 12, Mitts- transactions accurately. 11, Smith- 11, E. Waller- 10, Fields- 9, Jake- 9, Willcox- 7 and 581 head of stockers property available. Cocktail Server – Ponca City, H. Waller 3. Contact the ONR office at regular part time. This position Election Board member Belle Wilson, whose brother is Waller is responsible for taking orders and niece is Hope Waller, was present with election staff, but did (918) 287-3835 for more information and serving alcoholic and/or not participate in vote counting. The other two Election Board Bids are due Jan. 31, 2020 non-alcoholic beverages. Re- members Shannon Lockett and Terry Hazen were on travel sta- sponsible for providing friendly tus at the time. Community November 2019 17 Have an event? Send event information to the Osage News, Attn.: Shannon Shaw Duty, 604 Kihekah, Pawhuska, OK 74056; email sshaw@ osagenation-nsn.gov, or fax to (918) 287-5563. Erin Casoose Trenton Mashunkashey Courtesy Photo Make sure to include Congratulations! Congratulations! Osage artist Matt Jarvis is pictured with his exhibit at the Osage Ca- event date, location, email sino in Tulsa on Nov. 22. Erin Casoose just graduated Trenton Mashunkashey and web address (if appli- from the University of Okla- has been selected for a second cable) and a phone num- homa with a Bachelor of Arts time as Student of the Month Osage artist offers rare exhibit degree in Native American Osage News ber where someone can be at Riverside Indian School Studies and a minor in Psy- in Anadarko. Mashunkashey contacted for validation, chology. She is the daughter of Internationally known artist and Osage County native is a junior at the high school Matt Jarvis offered a rare Oklahoma exhibit of his work at if necessary. Deadline for Avis Ballard of Skiatook, Okla- homa, and James Casoose of and maintains a 3.2 GPA. His a private reception Nov. 22 at the Osage Casino Tulsa, host- each subsequent issue of ed by the producers of the motion picture “Rosa and Black Phoenix, Arizona. Erin’s fam- interests include playing the Gold.” Jarvis showed in Tulsa for the first time in almost the Osage News is the ily wants to congratulate her guitar, acoustic and electric, ten years, with some pieces that the Oklahoma public has on the accomplishment and of- and gaming. Congratulations 18th of every month. never seen. fer best wishes for her future!! Trenton! His work is based on his photographs of tribal life and other images of Osage County. Rosa and Black Gold is based on the true story of Rosa Hoots (Osage), whose horse Black BENNY POLACCA Gold won the 1924 Kentucky Derby. Joe Johnston, who is Osage News producing the motion picture with partner Russ Tallchief Attendees of the 2019 (Osage), said, “As soon as I saw Matt’s work, I knew it pow- Pawnee/ Osage CASA erfully reflected the challenges and the beauty Rosa faced birdhouse auction with changing cultures and technology.” gather for a group pho- Jarvis, who served several years as a professor of art at to following the Dec. Bacone College, has exhibited across the United States, Can- 6 event which raised ada, China, and in London as part of a cultural event cor- funds in support of responding with the 2012 Summer Olympics. He has been the nonprofit that pro- vides advocates for an award-winning exhibiting painter since he was in high abused/ neglected chil- school, and he advanced into photography and mixed me- dren involved in tribal dia in the 1990s, adding digital imaging skills in the 2000s. and state court cases He is also a photojournalist, and an in-demand speaker and in Pawnee and Osage writer on art with particular focuses on American Indian art counties. and portraiture.

Save the Date Happy Anniversary! Congratulations to Boyd and Ellen Thomison who have been –Local Events Calendar married for 69 years. They were the first couple to be married JANUARY 2020 Oklahoma City March 28 by the late Raymond Redcorn Sr. on Dec. 16, 1950 at the Osage 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. United Osages of Indian Baptist Church. January 12 American Indian Cultural Southern California Osage Nation Center & Museum Spring Gathering Strategic Update 659 American Indian Blvd. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Irving, Texas Wahzhazhe OKC, OK 73129 Carlsbad Senior Center, 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. 799 Pine Ave, Carlsbad CA Holiday Inn Express DFW January 28-29 (760) 802-7591 or socal. North – Azelea Room 4th Annual Osage Nation [email protected] 4550 W. John Carpenter Science Fair FWY For 7th and 8th grade APRIL 2020 Irving, TX 75063 Osage County students Osage County Fairgrounds April 4 January 13 Osage News Pawhuska, OK Osage Nation Candidate Debates Jennifer Holding (918) Strategic Update Osage Casino & Hotel 287-5300 or education@ Tulsa Tulsa Baked Meat Pie 5:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. osagenation-nsn.gov Have an event? Send event in- • 1½ lbs. of round steak Mix biscuit dough of – Tulsa Casino – Sunflower formation to the Osage News, Attn.: Shannon Shaw Duty, 604 Kihekah, ground coarse with a • 2 cups flour Meeting Room FEBRUARY 2020 Pawhuska, OK 74056; email sshaw@ little suet. Salt and pep- • 1 tsp. salt 951 W. 36th St. osagenation-nsn.gov, or fax to (918) February 8 287-5563. Make sure to include event per to taste. Add about 2 • 2 tsp. baking powder North Tulsa, OK 74127 Wak’on Owatsi date, location, email and web address tablespoons water. • 1 tbs. shortening (level) (if applicable) and a phone number • 1 cup milk January 14 Pawhuska Arbor where someone can be contacted for Osage Nation validation, if necessary. Deadline for each subsequent issue of the Osage Roll out in small rounds, place meat mixture on one half, then Strategic Update MARCH 2020 News is the 18th of every month. fold over and crimp edges together – place in well-greased bread pan and bake in moderate oven until brown. Obituaries January 2020 18 Lenora Christine Brave Hominy; son Anthony Brave Jeff Giles Lenora Christine Brave of Shawnee, Oklahoma; moth- Jeff Giles, age 44, of Oaks, passed from this life on De- er Mary Brave of Pawhus- Oklahoma, died Tuesday, Aug. cember 17, 2019, at the age of ka, Oklahoma; four siblings 20, 2019. 50 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Julie Standing Bear and her Jeff was a former Police Of- Lenora was born on April husband Geoffrey of Pawhus- ficer in West Siloam Springs. 22, 1969, in Kansas City, Mis- ka; David Brave and his wife Jeff was born Dec. 27, 1974 in souri. She was the daughter Debbie of Tulsa; Dina Dixon of Upland, California to Frank of Frank and Mary (Shan- Hominy; Joe Don Brave and his and Guylene Giles. non) Brave. As a young girl, wife Rebecca of Bartlesville, Jeff is survived by his par- Lenora resided in Overland Oklahoma; three grandchil- ents, his wife Robyn and his Park, Kansas. The family later dren Mary, Hunter, Marayla five children, Jackson Giles, moved to Hominy, Oklahoma, and a host of nieces, nephews, Jada Jones, Jimmy Lemmons where Lenora began attending relatives, and friends. (Sarah), Cassidy Shaver and kindergarten at Horace Mann, She was preceded in death Bryant Shaver; a sister, TJ later graduating in 1987. For by her father Frank Brave and Land and a brother, Jason a short period, Lenora worked Lenora Christine Brave a sister Bonnie Brave. Giles; a grandchild, his moth- at the Hominy Nursing Home very proud of her Osage cul- Memorial services will be er in law, Sherry Hubbard, his Jeff Giles as an aide and later at Dick ture and background. held at the Hominy Indian aunt Linda and uncle Bob Sisk Conner Correctional Center as Village Chapel on January 25, and his four-legged friends. He loam Springs Seventh-Day Survivors include her a mail clerk. 2020, at 10:30 a.m. with dinner is also survived by many niec- Adventist Church, in Siloam Lenora loved being with daughter Hannah Brave and to follow at the Hominy Indian es and nephews. Springs, Arkansas. Online friends and family and was her husband Kris Hawkins of Village Community Building. A Celebration of Life was condolences can be made at held Aug. 25, 2019, at the Si- www.WestfieldChapel.com. Bill D. Cannon he began a second career at Bill D. Cannon was born in the Phoenix Indian Center in Sonya Nicole Holloway Joplin, Missouri on January Phoenix, AZ as a counselor A beloved eldest daughter, where he served many Native 20, 1933 to Joseph Num-Pah- sister, aunt, niece, cousin, and American students and young Se Cannon and Bertha Mc- friend, Sonya Nicole Holloway adults. Dowell Cannon. He is survived gained her angel wings and Bill returned to Pawhuska passed from this world unex- by his wife Minnie J Cannon upon his second retirement pectedly on Sunday evening, of Pawhuska OK, daughters in 1997 because he wanted to Dec. 15, 2019. She was 38 Jolanda Bartlett and Renata come home. He made many years old. Born in Claremore, Cannon of Peoria, AZ, Tess friends and worked part-time Oklahoma on Monday, Feb. Miller (Nick) of Avondale, AZ, jobs including driving for 23, 1981, to John “Popper” and Shanda Hocutt (Dale), Hope Head Start which he enjoyed Leslie Lynn (Tallchief) Hollo- Cannon and Billy Cannon of immensely. He will be sorely way, she was a lifelong resi- Sonya Nicole Holloway Fairfax, OK, sister Patricia missed and our memories of dent of the Fairfax and Ralston Hunter, 14 grandchildren and him we will cherish. communities. Growing up she and never met a stranger. She 12 great-grandchildren and Bill D. Cannon Traditional Indian ser- attended schools in the Fairfax loved being around children, numerous nieces, nephews, the U.S. Air Force during the vices were held December 12 Public School system, graduat- family, and friends. Her pride, family members and friends. Korean War and served with at the Indian Camp Chapel ing with the Woodland High joy, and motivation in life was In addition to his parents, he the 807th Air Police Squadron in Pawhuska. Funeral ser- School Cougar Class of 1999. her nephew Josh. is preceded in death by his in London, England from 1951- vices followed with Pastor Sonya was a proud mem- Sonya loved her family brother Robert Cannon and 1955. He graduated Oklahoma Scott Kohnle officiating. In- ber of the Osage and Chick- deeply and is survived by her sister Mary Hope Myers. State University, and then he terment was in the Pawhuska asaw Nations by way of her adoring parents John and Bill attended Pawhuska In- worked for the Bureau of In- City Cemetery. maternal grandparents, Eliz- Les Holloway; her best friend dian Camp School and grad- dian Affairs on assignments Kendrick McCartney John- abeth Ann “Betty” (Bowman) and sister Courtney Hollo- uated from Haskell Institute, throughout the Southwest. son Funeral Home was in Tallchief and Omer “Charles” way; and her cherished neph- Lawrence, KS. He enlisted in After retiring from the BIA charge of arrangements. Tallchief, respectfully. Her ew, Josh Cates, all of Fairfax. paternal grandparents were She also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, cousins, and a Dean’s adventures took them Viola “Vi” (Lizotte) Holloway Carl Alphonso host of other precious family around the world many times and John “Chief” Holloway, members and friends who will (Al) LittleStar and their love of travel was Jr. Chief also belonged to the miss her legendary laugh and Carl Alphonso (Al) Little- contagious to their kids and Osage Nation and was of the caring demeanor. Star, age 86, of the Osage Na- grandkids. Buffalo Clan. As the eldest She is joining both her ma- tion, passed away peacefully He was born on December daughter, Sonya was given ternal and paternal grandpar- on Saturday, November 30th, 16, 1932 to Mary Drymon and the Osage name “Wah he she” ents in heaven. 2019, in Boerne, Texas, sur- George LittleStar in Fairfax, meaning “Generous,” which fit Sonya lied in state at the rounded by his family. Oklahoma. Al is survived by her perfectly. Grayhorse Chapel Dec. 17-18, Al was a beloved husband, his wife Dean; two sons and After high school, Sonya 2019. A funeral service was father, grandfather, and great their wives, Gary and Desi worked at the Osage Casino held on Dec. 19, 2019, at the grandfather who was truly LittleStar, and Mark and Deb- and Fairfax Manor Nursing Grayhorse Chapel with John loved by all who knew him. bie LittleStar; four grandchil- Home. As a certified nurse’s Redeagle officiating. Inter- While his accomplishments dren: Christopher (Tracey) aide, she had a passion for the residents and was always ment followed in the Tallch- were many, he will mainly be LittleStar, Erin LittleStar, there to brighten their lives. ief Family Hilltop Cemetery remembered for his kindness, Sarah (Josh) Currer, and Kris- Her hobbies included learn- and a bald eagle flew over- gentleness, and faithfulness Carl Alphonso (Al) LittleStar sy (Nicholas) Hearn; and five ing her native tongue at Osage head around the noon hour. to his family and friends. A From a roustabout on an oil great-grandchildren: Vivi- Language classes; doing bead- Arrangements were by Hun- follower of Christ, Al walked rig in Osage County, OK, un- enne, Audrey, Silas, Maren, work; Osage finger weaving saker Wooten Funeral Home the walk and showed the love til he retired in management and Lydia. and cooking when needed at of Fairfax. of Jesus to all he encountered. from Phillips Petroleum, Al A celebration of his life was her family (Bowman) camp. Pallbearers were Brand- The joy of his life was his wife taught his two sons what hard held on January 4 at Morn- Sonya was an avid OSU un Irons, Kent Evatt, Mark of 68 years, Dean Rice Little- work and dedication could do, ingside Ministries at Menger Cowboy fan and, in a house Carter, Quinn Thompson, Star. From their first house even when you didn’t start Springs in Boerne, TX and divided, things could get inter- Greg Daley, Gabe Graham, with no plumbing in the Big with money or a college de- he will be interred in Fair- esting – ask any family mem- Michael Drebenstedt, and Bend, outside of Ralston, OK, gree. His career allowed him to fax, OK in March 2020. The ber. She had an infectious Lance Nuttle. until their last home, 35 moves live and make special friends LittleStar family invites you smile, a caring personality, Expressions of sympathy later, in Boerne, Texas, they in the many places they lived, to make a contribution to an and was the life of the party. may be made at www.hunsak- proved that a home really is including Oklahoma, Texas, organization of your choice in She also loved listening to mu- erwootenfuneralhome.com where the heart is, with every Colorado, Florida, Hawaii memory of Al and his kind, sic and playing video games in When you think of Sonya, one of them filled with love. and Perth, Australia. Al and generous spirit. her free time. celebrate the good memories If you knew her well or bare- you shared with her. Remem- Virginia Dare “Honey” the Fellowship Bible Church ly at all, she always left you ber that life is fragile and short in NWA and attended Fellow- thinking, smiling and laugh- and should be lived like Sonya Sego ship Fayetteville from the time ing. She was funny, outgoing did – to the fullest. Virginia Dare “Honey” Sego it opened. She read the Bible passed away peacefully on daily and loved the Lord Jesus Friday, Nov. 1, 2019, at But- with all her heart, purposeful- David Travis Meneely terfield Trail Village in Fay- ly making Him known wher- (Chief) etteville, AR, six weeks prior ever she lived and praying Grace Memorial to her 103rd birthday. She was without ceasing. born on Dec. 12, 1916, in Wyn- She was preceded in death David Travis Meneely ona, OK, to Mary Stephens by her husband, parents, son (Chief) of Burbank, OK passed and Roy C. Friend. She was a Charles Friend Sego, sister away Friday, Nov. 22, in Am- member of the Osage Nation Mary Frances Berkihiser and arillo, TX. He was 37 years and the oldest living Osage in an infant brother. of age. Arkansas. Virginia is survived by son David was born on May 13, Virginia attended school in Steve Sego of Bloomington, IN; 1982 in Ponca City to David Bartlesville, OK, graduating daughter-in-law Frances Sego Virginia Dare “Honey” Sego Vence Meneely and Martha from Bartlesville High School of Fayetteville; grandsons Bart Dee Donelson. in 1933. She attended South- For many years Virginia Sego (Gena) of Bentonville, AR; David grew up in Osage western College in Winfield, was part of the Magic Suit- Ted Sego (Andrea) of Fayette- County and graduated from David Travis Meneely (Chief) KS, a school with a strong case program, an outreach of ville; Jay Sego (Sarah) of Alex- Shidler High School. He joined performing arts program that the Oil Industry Information andria, VA; and nieces Virginia the United States Marine the Home; daughter, Lila Bible prepared her as a confident Committee, presenting to so- Dare (Pixie) Moore of Brent- Corps to serve his country. He of Red Rock, OK; his mother public speaker in the coming cial, civic and business clubs, wood, TN and Barbara Walker served two tours in Iraq before Martha Donelson-Green and years. From 1947 to 1972 she schools, churches and televi- (Bevy) of Nashville, TN. he was honorably discharged. husband Fred of Burbank; and was employed as the recep- sion stations all the man-made Graveside burial service He went to college to seek a father Vence Meneely and wife tionist for Cities Service Oil miracles from the amazing was Nov. 7 at Memorial Park bachelor’s degree in Native Sonya of Webb City, OK. Also Co. cooperate headquarters in world of oil. Cemetery in Bartlesville. A American Law. surviving are numerous sib- Bartlesville. When Cities Ser- Virginia and Pres were ac- memorial service was held in “Chief,” as he was referred lings, nieces and nephews. vice moved its headquarters to tive in their church as well the Performance Hall at But- to, met the love of his life Diana Funeral services were held Tulsa, Virginia was hired by as many civic and charitable terfield Trail Village in Fay- Medina and they were mar- Nov. 30, 2019 at the Ponca Phillips Petroleum Co. as their groups, volunteering in MU- etteville on Nov. 8. ried August 15, 2015 and they City Assembly with Pastor receptionist until her retire- TUAL Girls Club and Salva- In lieu of flowers, the fam- made their home in Burbank. Dewayne Bardwell officiating. ment. tion Army Auxiliary, and was ily request donations to the David enjoyed the outdoors, Burial followed on David’s Virginia and Presley W. a Past Grand Officer of the Or- Fellowship Bible4 Church of camping, fishing, shooting family ranch in Osage Coun- (Pres) Sego were married on der of the Eastern Star. NWA, 1051 W. Pleasant Grove guns and rifles, riding horses, ty. Pallbearers were Joe April 15, 1941, and lived in Virginia moved to North- Rd, Rogers, AR 72758 or to the training service dogs and tak- Soltis, Alan Murray, John Wichita and Winfield, KS, un- west Arkansas in 2003 to be BTV Foundation fund for the ing “walkabouts.” Jones, Cody Myers, Brian til 1947 when they moved to near her family after Pres Health Center, 1923 E. Joyce David leaves behind to cher- Troth, Brandon Teppo and Bartlesville. died. She was a member of Blvd, Fayetteville, AR 72703. ish his memory: wife Diana of John Arnette. Opinion January 2020 19 Letters to Without Reservations the Editor Get out the vote! I think it’s time to remem- ber what the politicians prom- ised you when they wanted your vote. Have they done what they said they would do? If not, it’s time for term limits. In the old days, Indians did not have the numbers to vote to get the poli- tician in or out of office. Today, there is a good chance, that if you have Indian blood in you or someone close to you does, why not take that number of votes and vote for or against these politicians. Read things, ask questions, remember what they said. Vote by what is in your heart. You know what is right or wrong. Don’t worry about what Democrat or Republicans have to say, they will never agree which makes us the lit- tle people suffer. Be one of the Big People. Vote and get a friend to vote. God Bless You. –Tommy Joe Supernaw Bixby, OK Cartoon © Santo Domingo Pueblo Cartoon Artist, Ricardo Caté

Obituaries Richard E. Roberts Amanda K. Roberts; his neph- –from Page 18 Richard E. Roberts, of Tul- ew, John Joseph Jake (2018); sa, Oklahoma, formerly of Cla- two aunts, one uncle and many Micheal Moncravie remore and Fairfax, departed Micheal E. Moncravie, a Na- cousins. this life on Friday, December val Veteran and a member of Richard lied in state at the 20, 2019, at his home at the the Osage Nation passed away Grayhorse Chapel. A funeral November 25, 2019 in Fayette- age of 66. ville, Arkansas after a battle Richard E. Roberts, 66, of service was held on Decem- with cancer. Tulsa, Oklahoma, passed from ber 31, 2019 at the Grayhorse He was preceded in death this life into God’s hands on Chapel with Rev. Archie Ma- by his father John T. Moncra- Friday, December 20, 2019. vie Jr., grandparents John T. son officiating. Burial followed Born on Wednesday, October Moncravie and Cornelia Pet- Richard E. Roberts in the Fairfax City Cemetery. 28, 1953, to parents James tus, Tim and Janice Phillips, the Gilcrease Museum, north- Arrangements were under great-grandparents Sylvester Chakah and Anna Kathryn west of downtown Tulsa. and Myrtle Moncravie, and sev- Micheal Moncravie (Goode) Roberts in Anadarko, the direction of the Hunsa- He was of the Catholic faith eral aunts, uncles and cousins. Oklahoma. He was of Osage ker Wooten Funeral Home Golden State Warriors, and and belonged to the Sacred The 2nd of seven children, he and Pawnee descent. San Francisco Giants. Mike Heart Catholic Church in Fair- of Fairfax. is survived by his mother Joan Richard was a proud, en- Thoma, and brothers John and was a tremendously gifted fax, Okla. Casket bearers were Isaiah rolled member of the Osage Peter from Fayetteville, Phil- bowler and shared his wealth He took extreme pride in tribe and was also from the Lasley, Stetson Davis, Cole- ip and wife Cheryl from Aus- of knowledge with many stu- dancing at the Grayhorse In- Pawnee tribe. His maternal man AmericanHorse, Sime- tin, George and wife Kathie dents and mentors in Fayette- lonshka. He participated as a from San Antonio, and sisters, grandparents, the late George on White, Rock Pipestem and ville and Sheridan. He was Taildancer for many years un- Elizabeth from Oklahoma and Roberts and Maggie (Yellow- also an avid chess player and til he was physically unable. Tim Keil. Kathy and husband Chuck horse) Goode, Sr. belonged to a ranking member and partic- He loved his Native American Share condolences and some Harber from Strickler, and the Osage Nation, Grayhorse Aunt Mary K. Lewis and Uncle ipated in many competitions. heritage as could be seen with of your best memories of Rich- District. His paternal grand- Michael Phillips and several Along with sports, Mike loved his traditional ways. He en- parents, the late George H ard at www.hunsakerwooten- nieces and nephews and ex- joyed playing golf and attend- the outdoors and had a passion (from the Skidi Band of the tended family and friends from ing the horse races. funealhome.com for photographing wildlife. Sheridan, Wyoming. Pawnee Nation) and Mary He will be sorely missed He was a good friend to all, Mike was born January 2, The family would like to (Smith) Roberts. and survived by his sons a man who would give his shirt 1957 in Anchorage, Alaska. thank the staff for the care He was raised in Oklahoma Richard “Richie” Roberts of Growing up in a military fami- Mike received at the VA in for a friend. City and attended St. Mary’s Moore, and Mitchell Roberts ly led Mike to numerous places Sheridan, Wyoming, the Palli- School in OKC. around the world. Later, Mike of Harrah; grandchildren Joe ative Care Unit, Elite Hospice, He was blessed with three served as a Petty Officer 3rd Goode, Anna Grace and Sime- Gallery and the Veterans Home in Class with the Weapons De- children, Richie, Anna and on James. Also surviving is his –from Page 11 Fayetteville, Arkansas. partment on the U.S.S (IKE) Mitchell. In the 1980’s the former wife, Loislin Gibson of Those who purchased Eisenhower. Notable achieve- Visitation with the family family lived in Fairfax where Harrah. artworks that evening included ON Congressio- ments for Mike in the Navy was held at Westfield Chapel the children attended school. Richard is reunited with was to be a Plank Owner, nal Speaker Joe Tillman, Funeral Home in Springdale, In 1983, John Jake, Richard’s his parents, James (1982) and which is a special award given Assistant Principal Chief Arkansas on Nov. 27. Burial nephew, joined the family. Anna (1980); his daughter, to one of first 25 crew members Raymond Red Corn, Con- will be at a later date in the He worked as a custodian gresswoman Brandy Lem- on the newly commissioned Anna Kathryn Roberts (2011); Spring of 2020. In lieu of flow- at the City Rescue Mission in one brother, James C. Roberts, on, artist Wendy Ponca carrier. and citizen Marilyn Yar- ers, donations can be made to Tulsa during his earlier years. Jr. (2015); two sisters, Kathryn A true sports fan, he loved brough. the Hogs, Baltimore Ravens, the Sheridan USBC Youth. Most recently, he worked at Ann (Roberts) Jake (1984) and

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