HOZHOOJÍ NAHAT’ÁH BAA HANE’

February 2015 Executive branch News A Publication of the Navajo Nation Volume 1, Issue 2 www.navajo-nsn.gov

REPATRIATION PRESIDENT SHELLY sayS THANK YOU Navajo delegation successfully return sacred masks from Paris auction house

Vice President Rex Lee Jim

PARIS—Navajo Nation awareness of how the sacred Vice President Rex Lee Jim and masks belong to the Navajo Navajo Human Rights officials Nation, and the right course purchased seven confirmed of action was to return them. Navajo sacred masks that were The vice president called the up for auction in Paris, France. masks “living and breathing Hundreds of items representing beings,” in Navajo, and as different Indigenous nations sacred to the people used for went on auction on Dec. 15, healing ceremonies during the 2014. winter. It was important that A MAN OF ACTION Navajo Nation President Ben Shelly issued a statement of thanks to the Navajo people for electing him as their leader for the past four The Navajo delegation they were taken home. years. The Shelly-Jim administration has accomplished a lot of tremendous projects on behalf of the Navajo people, he said. The administration will vacate arrived in Paris on Dec. 12 office when a presidential successor has been elected and installed into office. (Photo by RickAbasta) See CEREMONIAL >> Page 2 and accomplished one of its goals by gaining access to the sacred masks at the Drouot auction house on Dec. 13. The ultimate Four years of honorable leadership Vice President Jim offered Navajo prayers to restore legislative fix No lawsuits, administrative leave or investigations launched against harmony from the masks being WINDOW ROCK, removed from the Four Sacred Ariz.—President Shelly said the presidential administration during the four year term of office - Mountains. a “legislative fix” is needed It is also important to note to balance government President Ben Shelly and VP Rex Lee Jim will stand the test of time. that item 77 in the catalog is not responsibility. efore he entered office and became power. of Navajo origin. Eve auction First and foremost, he has Navajo Nation President, Ben Shelly * 163 bills signed Vice President Rex Lee Jim, who house does not know the origin said time and again that a Bignited the general election of 2010 previously served as council delegate for of this item as indicated in the referendum vote must occur and made the comeback of ages to win the into law Rock Point Chapter, joined President Shelly. catalog. that recognizes the Navajo vote of the Navajo people for the highest Jim, an accomplished writer and graduate While in Paris, the news people as the governing body. office of Indian Country. President Shelly of Princeton, was given the responsibility media coverage of the Navajo Each time legislation was took over the reins to the tribal government of managing the divisions of health and mission spread throughout introduced the tribal council and took the oath of office to become the * 29 bills vetoed education. This too, was a progressive action, Europe. Jane Hartley, U.S. voted it down. first N.M. resident and sitting vice president to have the vice president directly involved ambassador to France, made “The power lies with to get elected as president. Conspicuously in shaping the vision of the administration. a public appeal for the sacred the Navajo people, not the absent from the inauguration ceremony was Vice President Jim was also a skilled Navajo masks to be returned to the council,” he said. Joe Shirley, former president. It was the first * 16 executive linguist and a medicine man that advocated respective indigenous tribes, President Shelly also said time the exiting president did not attend the for cultural preservation. including the Navajo Nation. that delegates should not serve inauguration ceremony for the transfer of orders issued See RESTORING >> Page 2 The Navajo delegation raised on boards or commissions because the potential for politics preventing progress is great. 2015 WINTER SESSION President Shelly and Vice President Jim In addition, he said that STATE OF THE NAVAJO NATION the Office of the Auditor take oath of office to extend term General, Navajo Election Administration, Office of Hearings and Appeals, Ethics and Rules, and Government Development need to be repositioned to the Executive Branch. “These need to be separate HISTORIC OATH Navajo Nation President Ben Shelly and Vice President Rex Lee Jim both took the oath of office and independent entities on Jan. 13 for continuity of government. They will meet with the 23rd Navajo Nation Council during the winter session to discuss plans moving forward to June and August presidential elections. (Photo by Rick Abasta) not subject to the will of the council. That is the only way WINDOW ROCK, Ariz.— members of the 23rd Navajo and Vice President. The the Navajo Nation will truly Navajo Nation President Ben Nation Council during the State Room was packed with move forward,” President Shelly and Vice President Rex winter session to discuss the cabinet members, OPVP staff Shelly said. “I am hoping STATE OF THE NATION Navajo Nation President Ben Shelly and Vice Lee Jim took the oath of office best interests of the Nation and members of the media to that the next generation of President Rex Lee Jim reported before 23rd Navajo Nation Council during the at noon today and extended moving forward. witness the event. leadership will see the logic winter session for the State of the Navajo Nation. President Shelly provided their presidency. Until then, President Standing in front of the in this legislative fix. the address in Navajo and provided an update of accomplishments from the “However, it is also important past quarter and a vision for the future. (Photo by Rick Abasta) The decision to extend the Shelly and Vice President mahogany Great Seal of the term of office for President Jim will maintain continuity Navajo Nation, President that we work together with our WINDOW ROCK, Ariz.—President Ben Shelly delivered Shelly came on the heels of a of government until a new Shelly placed his left hand on legislators to get the job done the State of the Navajo Nation on Jan. 25, outlining significant late night negotiation meeting president is elected. the Bible and raised his right for the people,” he added. accomplishments from the past quarter and providing a vision and subsequent letter of Chief Justice Herb Yazzie hand to take his oath of office. The president maintained for the future. agreement between Executive administered the oath of office President Shelly repeated that it is the Navajo people that Flanked by Vice President Rex Lee Jim and Chief of Staff and Legislative Branches of at the Office of the President See EXTENDED >> Page 2 are the governing body. Arbin Mitchell, the president delivered his address in Navajo government. and highlighted the partnership between the Executive and The terms of the agreement Legislative Branches that made the accomplishments possible. state, “In the spirit of K’é He began with lauding the efforts between both branches to and Hózhó the Executive and fund the remediation of Administration Building No. 1, which Legislative leaders have come reopened in early Jan. Funding came from the Unreserved, together to talk things out in Undesignated Fund Balance, indirect costs and carryover funding, resolving a controversy that which totaled more than $5.5 million for construction. would impact the stability of “Several tribal divisions and departments stepped up to the the Navajo Nation.” plate and housed our displaced employees until the building The agreement further could be renovated,” President Shelly said. states that President Shelly He noted that the health and welfare of tribal employees was will maintain all power and the primary concern and that renovations have already begun on duties under the provisions Administrative Building No. 2, which was also shutdown due of the Navajo Nation Code. See STATE OF >> Page 8 The president will meet with Ahe’hee! Page 2 Hózhoojí Nahat’áh Baa Hane’ February 2015 LEGISLATION Extended term of office for President Shelly FTA grant approved From >> PAGE 1 office for the second term by signed his name. return to private business as WINDOW ROCK, Ariz.— Nation Council on Dec. 23. the oath after Chief Justice swearing on his jish (medicine Cabinet members and others an entrepreneur. On Dec. 30, 2014, Navajo Speaker Pro Tem LoRenzo Yazzie: bundle), which was held by his filed through to congratulate the Other options included Nation President Ben Shelly Bates signed the resolution “I, Ben Shelly, do solemnly mother. president and vice president. running for state and national enacted two bills to provide on Dec. 29 before sending it swear to continue to uphold and “I, Rex Lee Jim, do solemnly The event was low key and leadership. funding to the Navajo to the Office of the President abide by the laws of the Navajo swear to uphold and abide by lasted about 15 minutes. A “There’s a lot of work to be Transit System and approval and Vice President. Nation and Treaty of 1868 the laws of the Navajo Nation press conference followed, done, the Navajo people need of purchasing individual Legislation No. CD-67-14 between the Navajo Nation and and Treaty of 1868 between the where President Shelly spoke help,” he said. allotment land. was for approval of purchasing the United States of America, Navajo Nation and the United about conducting “business as At the conclusion of the Legislation No. CD-65- of individual allotment land and will faithfully execute the States of America; and will usual.” ceremony, OPVP staff and 14 was for approval of the for 160 acres located within Office of the Navajo Nation faithfully execute the Office “The standard functions of cabinet members convened $166,000 grant to the Navajo the Ramah Chapter by Roy President, representing the of the Navajo Nation Vice a president’s protocol, we will with the president and vice Transit System from the Chap Martinez. The cost of Navajo Nation, and will to the President, representing the continue to do that,” he said. president at the Navajo Nation Federal Transit Administration the purchase, including closing best of my ability continue to Navajo Nation; and will to the “I will continue to function Museum to discuss plans for public transportation costs, amounted to $128,000. preserve, protect and defend best of my ability continue to as a president, that’s what we moving forward. operation. Also included was Martinez made contact with the laws and government preserve, protect and defend agreed to.” For the short time in office, approval of the indirect cost the BIA Southwest Regional of the Navajo Nation, and the laws and government Approval or veto of tribal staff must give 110 percent rate of 10 percent. Estate Office and expressed his advance the interests of the of the Navajo Nation; and council legislation will or more was the message, in “The Navajo Transit System decision to sell his allotment Navajo people, having due advance the interests of the continue, he added, noting order to complete projects that continues to provide important to the Navajo Nation. On Sept. regard for the ethical duties and Navajo people, having due that his standing as president are still in progress. President services to the Navajo people, 24, 2013, Martinez agreed to responsibilities of the office. regard for the ethical duties and will move forward with all Shelly told everybody that that of mobility,” President the purchase price of $800 per So help me God.” responsibilities of the office. authorities in place. maintaining continuity of Shelly said. “I applaud their acre for a total sale price of First Lady Martha Shelly So help me God.” President Shelly’s staff government was the order of tenacity in seeking funds $128,000. held the Bible and witnessed Vice President Jim signed and cabinet will continue on, the day. outside the Nation to continue The Navajo Land her husband’s historic swearing the affidavit of certification, if they chose to, he said. For All of his staff and cabinet their mission of public Acquisition Trust Fund will in ceremony for the second followed by President Shelly. those choosing to leave, they members will continue working transportation. cover the purchase price time. Navajo Nation Vice “We’ll keep it together will be replaced with young with the administration until a “I hereby sign into law the of the land, which will be President Rex Lee Jim was until somebody shows up,” Navajo professionals. For successor is elected into office. foregoing legislation, pursuant utilized for the development next and took his oath of President Shelly said after he his future, the president will to 2 NNC Subsection 1005 of residential subdivisions, (C) (10), on this 30th day of mutual help housing, home December 2014,” he added. site leasing and community Restoring integrity to the Office of the President and Vice President The FTA awarded the development purposes for the From >> PAGE 1 administration. This platform President Shelly and Vice prevented residents of the Navajo Transit System the Ramah Chapter. “There is so much that became the focus of the President Jim were in office Western Agency from being grant award of $166,000 on “I hereby execute the real this administration has administration when taking to work with the tribal council able to travel to their job sites, Jan. 8, 2013. The maximum estate purchase agreement on done within the span of one office in Jan. 2011. Another and move the Nation forward. medical services and other rate of 10 percent was levied behalf of the Navajo Nation for term,” President Shelly said. challenge the administration This did not mean rubberstamp essential needs, purchase a coal on the FTA, which waived the purchase of lands held by the “Despite the many challenges, faced was the division between approval for everything, but mine to bolster the Nation’s Navajo Nation indirect cost Roy Chap Martinez allotment,” we have accomplished more the braches of government rather, a mutual respect for financial portfolio, and address rate of 16.95 percent. President Shelly said. “The in four years than some – fallout from the council tribal legislators whose goals longstanding concerns for the The FTA is an agency Navajo Nation will utilize this administrations did for two reduction – that took several were the same: serving the best disabled citizens of Navajo. of the U.S. Department of land to build homes for those terms. This administration was months to fix because the laws interests of the Navajo people. “Nobody can do things Transportation that is tasked living in the Ramah Chapter all about action.” had to reflect 24 delegates and By working together, both all on their own, it takes all with providing financial and boundaries.” Health, education, economic not 88. branches of government branches of government to get technical assistance to local The Navajo Nation Council prosperity, infrastructure, and Throughout their were able to develop a things done,” President Shelly public transit systems. With approved the legislation by a transparency in governance, administration, one thing Navajo Nation Energy Policy, said. “Thank you for working headquarters in Washington, vote of 18-0 on Dec. 23 and were the five pillars of the became abundantly clear: respond to an emergency that with us. Ahe’hee.” D.C. and 10 regional offices, was signed by Speaker Pro the FTA oversees public Tem Bates on Dec. 29 before transportation including buses, it reached President Shelly’s Ceremonial masks returned to Navajo Nation from Paris auction house subways, light rain, commuter desk for approval. here with the steadfast support people and all Navajos to rail, monorail, passenger of the Navajo government, our pray for a successful mission ferry boats, trolleys, inclined lawmakers and our people,” in returning these sacred masks railways and other modes of the vice president said. back to the Navajo Nation. transportation. The Navajo delegation The delegation returned to The resolution was approved called on Navajo medicine the Navajo Nation on Dec. 16. by a vote of 18-0 by the Navajo

NAVAJO NATION OFFICE OF THE President Shelly approves special PRESIDENT AND VICE PRESIDENT

BEN SHELLY runoff election, NBOES pardon President

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz.— election in Aug. 2015. The REX LEE JIM CYNDY TAYLOR On the afternoon of Jan. 10, legislation calls for the oath Vice President Constituent Services Navajo Nation President Ben of office to be administered to MARTHA SHELLY MORONI BENALLY Shelly signed the special run the President-Elect and Vice First Lady Constituent Services off election legislation passed President-Elect on Sept. 9, ARBIN MITCHELL ALBERTA LAUGHING on the last day of the year by 2015. Chief of Staff Scheduler the Navajo Nation Council into In other election related CAROLYN DROUIN MAY KELEWOOD Legal Counsel Staff Assistant law, as well as a bill that grants news, the Supreme Court DESWOOD TOME ZANE JAMES a pardon to the members of vacated a motion filed by the Special Advisor Executive Assistant the Navajo Board of Election Navajo Department of Justice RICK ABASTA DWIGHT LARGIE Supervisors who were stripped seeking clarification from the Communications Director Executive Assistant of their offices by order of the court on the election before Jan. MARJORIE JOHNSON PATRICIA BEGAYE Navajo Nation Supreme Court. 31, 2015, and additionally, an Budget Director Scheduler “It is in the best interest opinion on whether President GERRI HARRISON DESIREE ETSITTY of the Navajo people that we Shelly remains as president Executive Staff Assistant Executive Assistant give the thousands of voters beyond Jan. 13, 2015. CARL SMITH BRITTANY SMITH a new opportunity to choose During the late hours of Jan. Executive Staff Assistant Administrative Assistant their next leaders,” President 9, President Shelly met with MICHELE MORRIS BRIAN BEGAYE Shelly said. “There have been the Speaker Pro Tem LoRenzo Executive Staff Assistant Administrative Assistant too many discrepancies over Bates and members of the BESSIE YELLOWHAIR MARY ROAN the last several months. A new Navajo Nation Council, along Constituent Services Office Liaison election will restore some with attorneys from the DOJ ISABELLE WALKER CHAD SINGER hope among the voters and the and the chief legislative counsel Constituent Services Office Assistant people that their voice will be to fashion an agreement for the PHIL KINLICHEE AUSTIN YAZZIE heard.” president to remain as president Constituent Services Office Assistant Believing that individual beyond Jan. 13. The agreement rights are undeniable, President will require President Shelly to Shelly signed take an oath legislation “A new election will of office on CABINET PAULSON CHACO SHARON BEGAY-MCCABE CD-81-14 Tuesday. Division of Transportation Division of Social Services and pardoned restore some hope It was TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE Navajo Nation Vice President Rex Lee VIRGIL BROWN JR. LEONARD CHEE the NBOES agreed by Division of General Services Division of Community Development among the voters.” Jim traveled to Paris on a repatriation mission. He was joined by staff from members the parties the Navajo Human Rights Commission. (Photos and story by Jared King) JOHN BILLISON HARRISON TSOSIE from sanctions imposed upon that stability is important to Division of Public Safety Attorney General ALBERT DAMON JR. BRIAN TAGABAN them by the Supreme Court. the functioning government From >> PAGE 1 of cultural patrimony,” Vice Division of Economic Development Telecomm. Regulatory Commisssion

The legislation sets forth a and to ensure a greater sense “This is important because President Jim said. STEPHEN ETSITTY RAMONA ANTONE NEZ special election for June 2015, of continuity. The agreement we have a cultural and spiritual “We understand that many of Environmental Protection Agency Division of Health in which the 17 candidates who does lend opportunity for connection with them. These the dealers do not understand CLARA PRATTE SHARILENE JEFF Washington Office Division of Natural Resources were contenders for the 2014 the incoming lawmakers to are not art objects. They were this, that this concept is foreign THOMAS RANGER primary election are eligible introduce legislation that not constructed for decorating to their culture,” he added. Division of Human Resources to reapply as candidates for would otherwise address the homes or to hang art galleries. “As an elected official of president. The two candidates matter of the presidency until the Navajo people, one of my This is a major difference All stories, photos, graphics, layout and design with the highest votes will an election is held. between the western concept duties is to protect these sacred by RICK ABASTA, except where noted. proceed to a special general of art and the Navajo concept masks and that is why I am Hózhoojí Nahat’áh Baa Hane’ February 2015 Page 3 NAVAJO NATION AND CITY OF GALLUP ARE FIGHTING BACK AGAINST ALCOHOLISM Fluency amendment fails WINDOW ROCK, Ariz.— clear, concise and fair laws, change of legislative On New Year’s Eve, Navajo he noted, adding that such oversight to Resources and Nation President Ben Shelly important change can only be Development Committee, vetoed CD-79-14, a Navajo done through a referendum purpose of farm boards, Nation Council resolution to vote of the Navajo people. duties and responsibilities amend the Navajo language “It’s the people’s right to of officers, meetings, fluency requirements for determine this, not myself, powers, accountability and Office of the President and the council or the courts,” compensation. Vice President. President Shelly said. Legislation No. CD-68- The council attempted to The same day, President 14 was also signed into law pass a similar legislation in Shelly also signed into law by President Shelly and Oct. 2013, which was also three bills. established the Sihasin Fund vetoed by President Shelly, Legislation no. CD-64-14 for the $554 million settlement. who favored a referendum vote was for amendments to Title Establishment, purpose, for amending the language 11 of the Navajo Nation Code investment, definitions, requirement. He said a by authorizing the Navajo expenditure, annual audit FIGHTING BACK Left, Navajo Nation President Ben Shelly said he joined Eddie Munoz in the 1980s to march thoughtful and deliberative Board of Elections Supervisors report and expenses of the on Santa Fe in opposition to the liquor establishment in Gallup. Center, delegate Edmund Yazzie said alcoholism is conversation needed to occur to eliminate filing fees for Sihasin Fund were outlined in an all-race problem. Right, a Santa Fe staffer shared stats on the alcohol problem in Gallup. (Photo by Rick Abasta) with the Navajo people before elective positions filled by the legislation. changing the qualifications for appointment. “The Navajo people tribal leadership. Currently, filing fees by can rest easy knowing that “This conversation has candidates are submitted the $554 million from the yet to occur and, as such, my when they file their candidacy trust settlement is properly feelings on the matter have not application. The filing fees are accounted for and audited changed,” President Shelly non-refundable. through the Sihasin Fund,” said. “The people are divided “For an appointment to fill an President Shelly said. “This and we need their participation unexpired term, the applicable is the Navajo people’s money in this decision that will affect filing fee shall not be required,” and they deserve to know what the generations to come.” was the amendment to the code. it’s spent on. He said piecemeal changes President Shelly also signed Such transparency in to the Navajo Election Code in CD-76-14 into law and enacted government has been a the form of council resolutions the amendments to the Navajo hallmark of this administration and Supreme Court opinions Nation Farm Board plan of and we will continue to keep will not suffice. A major operation. the Navajo people informed,” overhaul is needed to ensure The amendments included he added. PUBLIC AWARENESS When the public spoke on the issues of alcohol, the sentiments were mixed. Some wanted the liquor establishments closed. Others (non-Indians) said the Nation should provide funds from the $554 million settlement to pay for treatment and detox services. (Photo by Rick Abasta) President Shelly meets with U.S. EPA, discussions

GALLUP, N.M.—Alcohol Gallup, which was packed with He said the march to Santa focus on carbon dioxide ruling is big business. hundreds of people. Fe resulted in $400,000 in seed boon and necessity for the tribe. your comments before issuing Efforts to come to grips Munoz encouraged the money to study the feasibility Recent air quality decisions a supplemental ruling,” she with alcohol related fatalities audience not to dwell on what of a detoxification center by the U.S. EPA to limit the added. and crimes in the city of went wrong with NCI, but in Gallup. Once the center use of coal-fired power plants In Nov. 1984, the U.S. Gallup isn’t anything new. In to instead focus on solutions was built, it was under the as an energy source have a EPA enacted a policy the 1980s, the city was dubbed and moving forward with the management of the hospital negative impact on the tribal for the administration of “Drunk Town, USA” and Gallup Detox Center. Given the for a period of two years, and economy. environmental programs on sensationalized news reports number of people in attendance, provided medical and social President Shelly said Indian reservations. The policy spread the name nationally. he was determined to maintain detoxification. A $3 million consultation with the U.S. EPA was in accordance with the City leaders from that a respectful atmosphere. grant from the Robert Wood was absolutely critical for the Federal Indian Policy that was era joined forces with tribal “I do have some ground Johnson Foundation got the proposed carbon dioxide ruling enacted on Jan. 24, 1983. and county leadership to rules for the meeting,” Munoz facility off the ground. because the power plants The main themes of march on Santa Fe to bring said. “There will be no racial People who went through the located on the Navajo Nation the policy stated “that the attention to the issue. During remarks. No outbursts, no center were held for three days provide tribal self-sufficiency. Federal Government will that time, McKinley County speaking out of turn. and some were referred to a “We just wrapped up the pursue the principle of Indian Commissioner Ben Shelly “This is not a blame game. 28-day rehabilitation program, CARBON RULING President Shelly final BART decision for ‘self-government’ and that joined the contingent of This is solution road,” he and others to an intake-shelter- met with federal officials from the Navajo Generating Station it will work directly with citizens fed up with the alcohol added. bed program for adolescents. U.S. EPA to discuss the proposed and completed a very complex Tribal Governments on a related fatalities and crimes. President Shelly was the However, Conejo said the most carbon dixide air quality ruling in rulemaking,” President ‘government-to-government’ The group’s efforts first to speak and reflected on important aspect was the work Oct. 2014. (Photo by Rick Abasta) Shelly said. “Now we have basis.” eventually resulted in closure the march to Santa Fe with rehabilitation program that the proposed carbon dioxide Because of this, President of drive-up package liquor former Gallup Mayor Eddie provided employment through SANTA FE—The U.S. EPA rulemaking before us.” Shelly said the U.S. EPA sales in Gallup and millions of Munoz. construction and laundry is expected to release their He explained that the must carefully consider dollars in federal funding for “We fought the liquor services or a kiln that produced proposed carbon dioxide air economy of the Navajo the tribal concerns and the construction and operation establishments. It’s very hard cups, plates and other wares. quality supplemental ruling for Nation is dependent upon the recommendations and make Na’nizhoozhi Center, Inc. In to fight them, their lobbyists “At the end of 90 days, Indian Country in mid-October. coal power plants, not only regulatory decisions that June 2013, the funding dried are very powerful,” President people would be able to go out Navajo Nation President for employment but also for uphold trust responsibilities up for NCI and the non-profit Shelly said. and seek employment and use Ben Shelly met with Janet revenue streams from taxes, and obligations as a trustee. organization was forced to President Shelly said that us for a reference. We could say McCabe, acting assistant lease payments and other His said the U.S. EPA needs close their doors after more during his tenure as county they’ve been through treatment, administrator for the Office of royalties that support the direct to find a balance between than 20 years of service. commissioner, he never they’ve been through rehab Air and Radiation, along with services to the Navajo people. economic development, On Oct. 24, 2013, the approved the renewal of any and they’ve been gainfully Jane Nishida, acting assistant Despite the push for progress and environmental Navajo Nation entered into a alcohol licenses. The effort employed,” Conejo said. administrator for the Office restrictions on coal-fired plants protection that will allow the memorandum of agreement was often for naught, however, of International and Tribal across the country, the tribal Navajo Nation to thrive in the with the city of Gallup and because the N.M. Gaming Gallup Detox Center Affairs and Jared Blumenfeld, air quality has always passed years to come. McKinley County to reopen and Alcohol Division would Since taking over the regional administrator for U.S. standards set by the federal “We want to request for the center. Since taking over eventually overrule their Gallup Detox Center in Jan., EPA Region 9 on Sept. 15 in government. a public comment period management of the Gallup decision, he said. the DBHS has averaged about Santa Fe. President Shelly said, “Ever extension from 30 to 45 days,” Detoxification Center on Jan. 1, “We need to put our heads 2,400 clients per month. The Joining the president were since such data started being President Shelly said. “Don’t 2014, the Navajo Department together and take care of this lowest admissions at the center Navajo Nation representatives recorded, the Navajo Nation treat us similar to states, we of Behavioral Health Services alcohol thing. We need to start occurred in June with 2,014 from Department of Justice, air quality has always been are different and deserve to has spent more than $582,000 talking to business people,” people and the highest was in Navajo EPA, Division of good. Today, be treated as providing services. President Shelly said, in August with 2,699. Natural Resources and NTUA. there is “The Navajo Nation a sovereign.” The city of Gallup has reference to liquor store and Ramona Antone Nez, The Navajo Nation delegation significantly Sixty contributed $320,000 to DBHS bar owners. division director for the shared statistics demonstrating less air air quality has years ago, for an operating budget of Navajo Department of Health, the economic disparities that pollution the initial close to $1 million. The city Gallup Fighting Back said DBHS is addressing the exist on tribal lands. coming in always been good.” agreements funds were collected from the David Conejo provided “revolving door” effect of the Statistics from the from power for the power Alcohol Excise Tax at a rate a history of Fighting Back center. She said medical detox Navajo Nation included the plants on and near the Nation.” plants was negotiated by the of 10 percent. Despite this initiative back from 1989, services will be contracted unemployment rate of 52 Blumenfeld commended federal government and power joint effort to fight alcoholism, when Gallup was in the out and that the 12-hour hold percent versus 6.3 percent President Shelly for his “hard plant owners for long term the MOA has fallen short of headlines for 31 deaths related will be increased to 72 hours for the U.S. More than 60 work for the Navajo Nation” sweetheart deals. Today, the meeting the full extent of needs to alcohol. The fatalities were for protective custody. Her percent of Navajos do not have and said he will leave a Navajo Nation stands poised to related to providing treatment from exposure, driving while timeline for implementation telephone service; 32 percent lasting legacy for his work to realize the benefits of renewed to those in need. intoxicated and people getting was one week. don’t have electricity; and 38 protect public health and the leases that it has negotiated run over by trains. He said the “The Navajo Nation percent do not have running environment. directly with the power plant Partnership is the key turning point was a head-on respectfully requests that the water. McCabe echoed similar owners, which are lessees to On the evening of Dec. 8, collision involving a white Gallup Police Department The relevance of the sentiments and said, “You are the Nation. President Shelly joined state, DWI motorist that killed three resume patrolling the ditches, statistics was to demonstrate the most active tribal leader county and city officials to natives in the other vehicle. arroyos and alleys for the disadvantages facing to advocate and conduct focus on the swelling number “In particular, this accident individuals who are intoxicated Navajo tribal members with government-to-government of people going through the was important because it and the greatest at risk to regard to basic necessities discussions for every ruling. detox center, numbers that was an Anglo that ran into a exposure,” Nez said. and economic development. “On behalf of the Obama have averaged about 2,400 Native American family. Now She also mentioned the need Those figures were contrasted administration, we are people per month. Sen. George we (were able to) bring the to repair the HVAC system of against the Nation’s abundance committed to working with Munoz hosted the meeting at attention to the universal aspect the detox center. The meeting of coal, more than 100 years the Navajo Nation as a the Lighthouse Church in of this problem,” Conejo said. ended with a Q&A session. worth, which is an economic sovereign entity and consider Page 4 Hózhoojí Nahat’áh Baa Hane’ February 2015 Letters to the editor Reasons why President Shelly and Vice Adopting new Dear Navajo Nation President Ben Shelly, President Jim should remain in office water management f the 2014 presidential Nation Department of Justice. reason why President Shelly President Shelly should remain tactics I’m writing this letter to you to Ielection taught us anything, On Dec. 15, 2014, DOJ and Vice President Jim remain in office is because having a thank you for the opportunity it was to expect the unexpected. issued a legal opinion stating in office. The responsibilities member of the council hold of working at the Klagetoh Mr. President and Vice President, Five months have passed that President Shelly may of the presidency have already two offices would be unfair Chapter House. My experience of working here was fun. I really since the primary election and continue in office as president been in their hands over the past and a perversion of the I hope you will join us June 6, enjoyed working here. I’m looking things are clear as mud. until a successor was elected four years and they did not face separation of powers between 2014, Friday at 2 p.m. in Window forward to next year and working The endless litany of and sworn into office. They any lawsuits, investigations or the branches. Rock for my presentation on the again. Many things got completed questions continues to pop cited 11 NNC §6 (B) as the administrative leave during The potential to rubberstamp Navajo Rain Catcher Project, here at Klagetoh Chapter. Thank provided your schedules permit. up: when will the election be source of their opinion. their term of office. approvals on pet projects you again for giving me the I am going to encourage the held? Will there be a write-in The election code states that In short, they have would be too great, especially opportunity of working here. Navajo Tribe to adopt some option for voters? Why is the expiration of a predecessor’s consistently maintained the with the recent $554 million water management tactics that Navajo fluency requirement term of office is contingent interests of the Navajo people settlement on the minds of Sincerely yours, stress sustainable rather than necessary? upon two things: that a during their administration. many legislators. depletionary use of one of our most Of course, the real general election occurs and a With all the political Continuity of government Delvin Slivers important life-giving resources… Klagetoh question itching at the back of president is elected; and that uncertainties confusing the must be maintained, which and that will allow the tribe to everybody’s mind is who will the new president is “installed public at large, the primary can only be achieved through both flourish and prosper in the Dear President Shelly, fill the role of president until in office” when they take the focus should be continuity consistency by allowing years to come. this mess is sorted out? oath of office. until a new leader is elected. President Shelly and Vice Natural springs on Indian Thank you for giving me this lands that have been diminished The obvious and correct To provide an objective President Shelly said he President Jim to continue job here at the Klagetoh Chapter by aquifer overdrafts in the past answer is President Ben Shelly. opinion, the attorney general would be remiss and doing the holding the government in House. Also thank you for the will be revived as the aquifers President Shelly and Vice and deputy attorney general Navajo people a disservice if he place. money you gave us. The money are replenished with even more President Rex Lee Jim were were recused from contributing were to vacate office without a They have no other reason that is going to be giving to me for fresh water than was in them in the last candidates to be to the opinion. Instead, five successor being elected. than protecting the tribal working is going to help me buy the past. In addition, rainfall will elected by the voting body – attorneys from DOJ drafted “I took an oath to uphold the government for continuing my school clothes and supplies. be harvested to provide the Navajo Again, thank you very much. the Navajo people – to fulfill the opinion. presidency until a new president in office. President Shelly Nation’s domestic, municipal, the duties and responsibilities They cited Navajo Nation was elected and installed. will not run for election if the agricultural and industrial supply Sincerely, of the presidency. Supreme Court decisions, My administration will runoff election moves forward. with some of the freshest, least They both took the oath of language from the tribal code, continue the responsibilities The tribal code explicitly contaminated water on the planet. RaiShanna Begay At the same time, Navajo office for a second time at noon and court decisions to support of the presidency until a new states that speaker of the Klagetoh fresh water allotments from the on Jan. 13, after reaching a late their opinion. president takes the oath of council would move up as San Juan River and other sources night agreement with tribal On Dec. 22, the legislative office,” he said. president if the president legislators on Jan. 9. However, counsel issued a dissenting President Shelly’s staff at perishes in office, is terminated covered by the Winter’s Doctrine To: Navajo Nation President Ben will be freed for commercial sale Shelly the terms of the agreement will opinion and made the claim the Office of the President and or if he is recalled from office. downstream to selected, well- expire with the start of the that the speaker should take Vice President and his cabinet None of these apply to our established and ever-growing On behalf of the Klagetoh summer winter session. office as interim president. members are already in place current state of affairs. markets across the arid, if not also youth employees, we would like to Legislation will be Such a decision would only and familiar with the issues “My term as president is not drought-stricken Southwest. This say thank you. Klagetoh Chapter introduced at the session for hinder the tribal processes facing the Nation. It’s common over and if I leave office now, I includes large casino consortiums, had funds set aside for the youth. the removal of President Shelly underway and complicate an sense that they would continue will be in violation of my oath land developers and the southern Not many job opportunities are and replaced by the speaker or already challenging situation in office until the election of office,” President Shelly Nevada Water Authority in the given to or for the youth. This greater Las Vegas metropolitan a delegate from the council. for the Nation. debacle is finally resolved. said. “It’s like abandonment helps provide job experience This does not follow the Continuity of government The last and quite possibly of your job.” area; Los Angeles, San Diego, and money that is well needed opinion issued by the Navajo operations is another central the most important reason why Riverside and other water supply for school expenses. Again, thank areas connected to the Colorado you for the opportunity. River Aquaduct across southern California, where fresh water Kirk S. Wilson Line item veto is already selling for $2,000 Klagetoh an acre=foot; and to Phoenix, n Dec. 10, President Shelly Tucson and others connected to Oexecuted his line-item the Central Arizona Project. This To: Navajo Nation President Ben veto authority on Legislation endeavor alone stands to put more Shelly No. CN-58-14, which was for than one-half billion dollars in the more than $1 million from the Navajo Nation’s coffers annually Greetings, I am a member of FY 2015 general funds budget. at current day prices for “Blue the Klagetoh community and According to the tribal Gold” or fresh water supply across have been here for a long time. I council resolution, $541,946 the Southwest. would like to thank you on behalf was for funding salaries of Finally, I intend to invite the of the students employed at the legislative district assistants Navajo Nation to join others and Klagetoh Chapter for allowing us me in establishing a new, multi- to work. We have been given the and $500,000 was for billion dollar corporation with opportunity to work and gain job administrative service centers worldwide distribution capabilities experience in the process. under the Navajo Division of under the heading: NAVAJO RAIN Community Development. CATCHER ENTERPRISES, INC. You have given our chapter On Sept. 15, President Shelly As an international corporation funds in order for students to line-item vetoed the FY 2015 designed to stimulate the Navajo be temporarily employed. We comprehensive budget because Nation’s economic health and have learned to work as a team of Navajo Nation Council’s well-being, selected goals will and acknowledge each other. I concerns about salaries for include manufacturing and would like to thank you for these politically appointed positions. distributing rain catchment opportunities. We appreciate what materials and products that can you have done for us and for our The reasoning was that the be used readily for emergency Klagetoh community members. money could best be used for relief and response operations as direct services to the Navajo well as for providing for military; Sincerely, people. industrial; agricultural; municipal; At that time, almost $2 and domestic freshwater supply. Nicholette Ashley million was earmarked for the There are already multi-million Klagetoh legislative district assistants to dollar prizes being offered by cover salaries, travel expenses international foundations to any and communications costs in who can help solve the problem of Who are the the FY 2015 budget. Because a world over-stressed already for modern day fresh water. The Navajo Beauty little has changed since that Way does apply Navajo? initial veto, the new legislation to fund those positions was J.A. Tony Fellin Dear President Ben Shelly, vetoed again by the president. Boulder, Colo. The president’s decision I’m a seventh grader at Hawfields to veto $500,000 for the Middle School in Mebane, North administrative service centers Klagetoh summer Carolina. workers say was rooted in the fact that I am writing a report on the Navjao there was no budget attached thanks and I need some help with finding to the legislation. The funding information on the modern day requested was in support of Dear President Shelly, Navajo. the decentralization initiative, which was a directive from Thank you for letting students Some of the information I could the Budget and Finance work at the chapter house. It was use is the history of the Navajo, Committee on July 5, 2013. an honor to have you as Navajo the places where they moved, and The decentralization Nation President. During our what did the Code Talkers do? was to transition from five job, we learned a lot more about Local Governance Support Were your people affected by our culture. I’m glad we have a Centers at the agencies to 16 community chapter house because the European explorers? In the administrative support centers it represents the people who live traditional Navajo religion, what around here. was the beliefs and customs? at the district level. “No budget forms were Sincrely, Any information would be helpful attached. The legislation does so thanks for the help. not indicate whether council Cailin Smith intends to use general funds, Klagetoh Sincerely, supplemental funds or indirect cost funding,” he said. “For Kohl McGuire these reasons must execute my Mebane, NC line item veto authority.” Hózhoojí Nahat’áh Baa Hane’ February 2015 Page 5 Resources and Development Committee approves FY 2015 Tribal Transportation Improvement Plan WINDOW ROCK—The under the Tribal Transportation planning funds are used to one of the directives made to get to school, work, medical because of mud during Resources and Development Program. provide technical assistance to Chaco by Navajo Nation services and other basic needs. inclement weather. Because Committee of the 22nd Navajo Paulson Chaco, director to chapters for transportation President Ben Shelly when Chaco said the Pinedale of this overwhelming need Nation Council approved the of NDOT, said the FY 2015 planning, mapping, roadway the administration took office project is a two-fold initiative, to provide residents with a Navajo Nation FY 2015 Tribal TTIP now moves forward data collection and long range in 2011. Early on in the with efforts to address the usable road during adverse Transportation Improvement to the Federal Highway transportation plans. administration, Navajo Nation immediate need for safety of conditions, Chaco said NDOT Program on Sept. 2, 2014. Administration for final A total of $277,500,000 Council Delegate Edmund the traveling public and the has earmarked Fuel Excise Tax Navajo Division of approval. If approved, the has been programmed into Yazzie (Church Rock, Iyanbito, other to provide a long-term fund to purchase gravel for the Transportation submitted a project listing for the Nation the TTIP through FY 2019. Mariano Lake, Pinedale, Smith solution to the roadway. road in the interim until the 60-page document to RDC will be included in the national The Navajo Nation receives Lake, Thoreau) approached Yazzie was in attendance for long-term project is completed. for review and detailed the transportation improvement $55,500,000 annually in NDOT with the need to repair the RDC meeting on Tuesday A total of 1.4 miles of road five-year project listing, which program. funding from the FHWA for N7054, a dirt road located in and stressed the importance of will be graveled on N7054. includes preliminary studies, He said progress has transportation projects. NDOT Pinedale, N.M. improving the road in Pinedale. This will require a purchase construction administration been swift during this receives $10 million of that The N7054 project is on In 2012, he requested that of 2,651 tons of gravel to and roadway improvements. administration, but additional amount, after it entered into a the five-year TTIP for grade, the project be placed on the complete the road. Roads are a major concern road improvement needs arise direct funding agreement with drain and gravel construction priority listing and staunchly We will utilize NDOT for many Navajo chapters. during monsoon flooding and the FHWA in 2013. for 3.5 miles of road. This advocated for its improvement equipment and operators to NDOT is charged to the winter season. “The direct funding safety project is at a cost since. place the gravel, Chaco said. perform critical functions “Projects in the five-year agreement changed the of $3,125,000. Preliminary Chaco said, “This road He said the Pinedale project related to transportation road TTIP include cultural and dynamics of transportation on engineering will be from project, like many across was just one of hundreds improvements in collaboration environmental impact studies, the Navajo Nation,” Chaco 2015 through 2017, at a cost the Navajo Nation, has been across the Nation that require with the Bureau of Indian right-of-ways, centerline said. “The BIA is now partners of $325,000. The following discussed for years, but actual immediate attention. Affairs, local, state and federal surveys and designs,” Chaco with Navajo DOT. They are two years will be construction progress rarely occurs due to For now, NDOT continues agencies for development of said. no longer our oversight. This engineering and construction, many factors, including lack to assist the Navajo people a tribal transportation priority Other program funds include has strengthened our tribal at a cost of $2,800,000. of funding.” through FHWA and FET listing. safety projects, planning, sovereignty.” However, immediate needs He said the immediate funding, combined with The projects are mandated operation and maintenance. Execution of the direct exist for local residents in need was to improve the road, ingenuity and adaptability. by 25 CFR Part 170, Subpart D Additionally, two percent of funding agreement was only Pinedale that travel on the road which was often impassable

PRESIDENT SHELLY President Shelly approves Navajo Department of Health Act NEGOTIATES FOR LOST WINDOW ROCK, Ariz.— and federal level to protect the to protect health and ensure it is feasible for the Navajo Navajo Nation President Ben interests of the Navajo Nation. safety.” Nation to operate its own CODE TALKER UNIFORM Shelly signed the Navajo “We firmly believe we are Vice President Jim said Medicaid agency to ensure the Department of Health Act into a sovereign nation and as a this effort wouldn’t happen Navajo people receive uniform law on Nov. 6, 2014. sovereign nation, there are overnight. Instead, it will take coverage, regardless of the He said the legislation is an certain essential governmental a number of years and a lot of state they reside in. unprecedented step for a tribal functions that we cannot, hard work to make sure they President Shelly said the nation in self-determination. should not, ever give away to are completed. legislation does not authorize “This legislation affirms other sovereigns, entities and “This means we will have the Department of Health to the Nation’s sovereignty by organizations,” Vice President to build capacity. We will have intercept or impede existing recognizing the Nation’s Jim said. “These are basic to hire new people who are self-governance funding for authority to determine what governmental functions. experts in policymaking, who contracted and compacted is in the best interest of our “One is our ability to are experienced in rulemaking,” facilities on the Nation. The people’s health care in the regulate and monitor programs he said. same holds true for the future,” President Shelly said. within the Navajo Nation’s The importance of regulation of traditional The legislation amends an jurisdiction,” he added. consultations and public practitioners and the use of outdated 20-year-old law that The Navajo Department of hearings cannot be stressed traditional medicine. only saw changes in piecemeal Health will ensure the public enough, he added, because the Vice President Jim said efforts. By joining other tribes health service needs are met participation from stakeholders the Navajo Department of exercising self-determination through assessment, policy will be instrumental in crafting Health will not only regulate through the compaction development and assurance. language that provides fair health care facilities and 638 and contracting of specific The department will diagnose regulations. programs, but also health codes health programs, the Navajo and investigate health In addition to working with at restaurants and safety codes Nation established its own problems and health hazards health care providers on the from swimming pools at hotels Epidemiology Center. in Navajo communities. tribal, state and federal levels, on the Navajo Nation. The When the administration President Shelly said, the department will also work legislation is all encompassing. took office in Jan. 2011, Vice “(The department) will toward another historic step, President Rex Lee Jim was develop policies and plans the creation of the first tribally tasked with responsibility over that support individual and administered Medicaid agency. health and education. Over the community health efforts. A recent study by the U.S. course of the administration, he The department will enforce Department of Health and has worked on the tribal, state laws and regulations passed Human Services found that PROTECTING VETERANS Navajo Nation President Ben Shelly negotiated for the return of a lost uniform. (Photo by Rick Abasta) WINDOW ROCK, Ariz.— Nation Museum for display President Shelly approves $8.3 million in supplemental appropriations The uniform of a Navajo hero to our future generations,” returned home. President Shelly said. compliance with the plan.” was approved for $600,00 from After more than 15 years of “Thankfully, Mr. Gottlieb was The legislation was originally the UUFB for the purchase of limbo, the uniform of George very gracious and cooperative only for the Oljato Chapter, but a new bus for Navajo Transit H. Kirk, Sr. was returned in the matter. the shopping center was added System. The president had home and unveiled on August “Our Navajo Code Talkers as an amendment. a small concern with the 14, during a ceremony at the not only put their lives on the “I compromised and signed proposal summary because Navajo Nation Museum in line but they also preserved this legislation because the it does not mention the bus honor of Navajo Code Talkers and showcased the strength shopping center project purchase, but OMB will apply Day. of Dine’ bizaad, the Navajo is shovel-ready and listed an administrative fix. Kirk was a Navajo Code language,” he added. on the five-year Economic President Shelly also Talker. Born on May 25, 1917, Craig Gottlieb Military Development Plan,” President approved Legislation No. CD- he passed on Oct. 28, 1999. Antiques, located in Solana Shelly said. 73-14 for $1,559,250 from the He served in the 3rd Marine Beach, Calif. was the business Resolution No. CD-75-14 UUFB for elected officials Division and saw combat in that had the uniform ready for was also signed for approval of operating expenses, planning Bougainville, Enewetak Atoll, auction. Major Gottlieb served $500,000 from the UUFB for and regular chapter meetings. Guadalcanal, Guam, Iwo Jima, in the U.S. Marine Corps and Tonalea-Red Lake Chapter’s The funds will be distributed to Johnston Islands, Mariana is a subject matter expert for LOOSENING PURSE STRINGS Navajo Nation President Ben Shelly has professional technical services the elected officials as follows: exercised his veto authority throughout his administration in an effort to be Islands, Marshall Islands, New History Channel’s television fiscally responsible and ensure the proper amount of funding was maintained and demolition project. The district grazing officials Guinea, and Solomon Islands. show, Pawn Stars. for the Unreserved, Undesignated Fund Balance. He recently loosened this to President Shelly approved will receive $877,500. The Kirk’s Navajo Code Talker “It’s been a long journey provide chapters with supplemental appropriations. (Photo by Rick Abasta) this project, but again, it is not farm boards will receive uniform and associated items to get where we are and I’m listed on the five-year CIP. The $483,750. The Eastern Navajo were lost since 1999, until they excited,” Gottlieb said. “As WINDOW ROCK, Ariz.— Undesignated Fund Balance for project, however, is also listed Land Board will receive appeared on the open market a Marine officer who grew On Jan. 6, Navajo Nation Oljato Chapter. The funds will on the five-year Economic $198,000. for auction in late Jan. 2014. up with words like ‘ink stick’ President Ben Shelly met with be for professional technical Development Plan. “During this administration, The uniform was previously in and ‘go faster,’ making this the Office of Management services and architecture and “I’ve worked with the we have held tight to the a storage unit that went up for donation has special meaning and Budget to discuss council design for the chapter’s new council on approving these Nation’s purse strings to ensure auction after he passed and no for me.” resolutions requesting multipurpose building. projects, but they need to the UUFB was maintained longer made payments. President Shelly traveled supplemental appropriations The same bill provides $5 ensure their legislation is above the minimum balance Navajo Nation President Ben to Reno, Nev. on Aug. 13 amounting to more than $8.3 million to the Nahata Dzil in compliance with the law allowed,” President Shelly Shelly immediately contacted to pickup Gottlieb and the million. Shopping Center project. The for any future legislation,” said. “Today, we have let go Craig Gottlieb, a military uniform for its return to the “It’s important that we ensure president had reservations President Shelly said. of the purse strings to approve historian that owned the Navajo Nation. funding for these projects are about signing the legislation Legislation No. CD-69- these projects for the people.” online auction house that was The unveiling was on Aug. in line with the Navajo Nation because the two projects are 14 was also approved by the prepared to sell the uniform. In 14, at 8 a.m. at the Navajo Appropriations Act,” President not listed in the five-year president and allows Cameron his letter to Gottlieb, President Nation Museum, followed by Shelly said. “We have more Capital Improvement Plan. Chapter to receive $180,120 Shelly stated the importance of the parade from the museum than $30 million in the UUFB The Appropriations Act from the UUFB for their its return to the Nation. to Veterans Memorial Park at right now, but we must be states, “All budget requests for multipurpose facility. The “We respectfully asked for 9 a.m. prudent with those funds.” capital improvements shall be project is on the five-year CIP the return of the uniform to the The Code Talkers are living President Shelly signed in compliance with an adopted and is in compliance with the Navajo Nation and agreed that legends and we must protect CD-71-14, which provides Capital Improvement Plan and Appropriations Act. it be an exhibit at the Navajo them at all costs, he said. $500,000 from the Unreserved, shall not be approved unless in Resolution No. CD-72-14 Page 6 Hózhoojí Nahat’áh Baa Hane’ February 2015 OPVP provides interns opportunity for government reform Sec. Sally Jewell joins President Shelly for historic $554 million settlement signing ceremony

GOVERNMENT REFORM President Shelly hired 14 student interns to work and research government reform for the tribe. (Photo by Rick Abasta) WINDOW ROCK, Ariz.— services,” he added. Development Services of Dine’ The internship was a From Dec. 2015 to Jan. 2015, Benally said that a College and Navajo Technical three-week program. Random 14 Navajo college students comprehensive study of the University, provided the divisions, departments worked as interns at the Office internal management culture framework for the study. and programs of the tribal of the President and Vice and processes of the Navajo Benally explained that the government were selected for President. Nation government has yet to internal processes are human evaluation. The group analyzed They worked with OPVP be conducted. and technical systems and that the data that was collected for staff assistant Moroni Benally “This constitutes government they create bottlenecks for a final report that hasn’t been to research government reform released yet. and prepare the administration The report will identify for the transition and eventual “I want to give these young Navajo legislative action, if necessary, transfer of power from the students an opportunity to see the and support the Shelly-Jim Shelly-Jim administration to administration’s transition for the next president. operation of the tribal government.” the transfer of power. Beyond “I want to give these young that, it also establishes a Navajo students an opportunity reform. Government reform growth and development. The data sharing agreement with to see the operation of the leads to economic development bottlenecks affect the quality the tribal colleges and sets tribal government firsthand,” and growth,” Benally said. of life, he said, adding that a new standard on policy President Shelly said. “They He explained that economic assessment and restructuring development, research, data are ready to take our tribal development improves the of these systems is what sharing and government government to the next level. quality of life for Navajo constitutes government reform. reform. “They will assist this people and that the Shelly- “If the Navajo Nation is Lane Franklin, a student HISTORIC SETTLEMENT Top, President Shelly signs the settlement administration with defining Jim administration was making to prosper economically it at Fort Lewis College in agreement. Center, Sec. Jewell joins President Shelly for an early morning improvements for tribal history by conducting the study. must focus on restructuring Durango, Colo. participated prayer. Bottom, the signed agreement. (Photos and story by Jared King) management systems and Executive Order No. 11- these internal management in the internship and had a essential government direct 2014, Utilizing Professional processes,” Benally said. pessimistic view on the project. WINDOW ROCK, Ariz.— scheduled to begin Oct. 6 in A decade from now, Franklin Navajo Nation President Chinle, Ariz. The purpose of sees a stagnant government. Ben Shelly signed a historic the town hall meetings is to President Shelly honors Navajo “I see the tribal government multimillion-dollar trust gain guidance from the Navajo being at a stand still like we are settlement, the largest in people on how to best utilize veterans during festivities for currently if the same leadership United States history, at a and wisely spend or invest the and mentality continues,” he commemorative signing funds. 2014 Veterans Day in Window Rock said. “Effective leadership ceremony with Navajo leaders The president said the and communications causes and federal officials. money from this settlement progress. “Today, we gather as a Nation will provide the Navajo “I believe the 2014 election to celebrate the historic trust government with a wide range highlighted the inefficiency settlement agreement between of choices on investment, but and injustice of the Judicial the Navajo Nation and the U.S. infrastructure and development Branch,” he added. government. The settlement of will be a priority. The 23-year-old Navajo this claim is symbolic of the “This means that we are voted for Chris Deschene in evolving relationship that the taking one small step towards the election and said young Navajo Nation has had with self-sufficiency and away from voters determine their future the federal government. For dependence,” the president with their choice of candidate. decades Native Nations have added. Upon obtaining his had an adversarial relationship He also underscored the undergraduate degree he with the U.S. Department of need for the Navajo Nation to plans on becoming a physical the Interior,” said President stand on its own and rely less therapist in the military or Shelly. on the federal government to private sector. Interior Secretary Sally provide for the people. Honesty about his Jewell, Sam Hirsch, acting “It is important to note that a experiences, beliefs and values attorney general for the lot of work went into reaching is what is needed within OPVP, U.S. Department of Justice, this landmark agreement. The he said. Environmental and Natural Navajo Nation worked for The 14 interns that Resource Division, Kevin many years in long and tough participated in the project were Washburn, Assistant Secretary negotiations to come to a not paid and strictly worked in PATRIOTIC DUTY Members of theTwin Warriors Society refold the Betsoi family flag. (Photo by Rick Abasta) of Indian Affairs, other federal resolution on this issue.” a voluntary capacity during the officials, Navajo Council President Shelly thanked three-weeks at OPVP. Delegates, and the Navajo President Obama and his Benally will be releasing Trust Litigation Task force administration for settling the groups work through a joined President Shelly at the this long standing wrong to report very soon. Plans to ceremony. the Navajo Nation and for the implement the government The president and the president’s commitment to reform ideas would be at the secretary acknowledged that working with Indian Country. discretion of the 23rd Navajo the settlement demonstrated He also thanked the Trust Nation Council and the resolving differences and Litigation Task Force for their president, upon their election working together for Navajos. guidance and leadership to and installation in office. “This settlement reflects resolving this issue. President Shelly said the our continuing commitment “The next step following project would be his legacy to upholding the federal today’s signing ceremony is to and allow the Navajo people trust responsibility to Indian hear from the Navajo people to see the roadblocks and Country and to building strong, on how the settlement can inefficiencies in the tribal prosperous and resilient tribal be used. We urge the Navajo process that has far too long VETERANS DAY Left, Navajo Nation President Ben Shelly unveiled the 11 new names that were added to the communities,” said Secretary people to provide their input KIA Wall at Veterans Memorial Park in Window Rock. Center, the Twin Warriors Society Color Guard opened flags prevented the Nation from true Jewell. on this important issue that will and refolded them for families that lost loved ones in battle. Top right, The Ft. Defiance Twin Warriors Color Guard. progress. The president called on effect generations to come,” Bottom right, the Window Rock Veterans Memorial Park enternally salutes the Navajo veterans that served the U.S. and the countless Navajos that died in battle since time immemorial. The day-long Veterans Day activity included the Navajo people to provide said the president. lunch provided by the Navajo Department of Veterans Affairs. (Photos by Rick Abasta) input at town hall meetings Hózhoojí Nahat’áh Baa Hane’ February 2015 Page 7 President Shelly enacts Healthy Dine’ Nation Act of 2014 President Shelly enacts criminal code amendments WINDOW ROCK, Ariz.— changes in the Navajo Nation President Shelly enacted Council standing committees legislation on Dec. 1 to amend resulting from the 88-to-24- the Navajo Nation Criminal member reduction. Code, provide Navajo President Shelly also signed language and culture assistance into law CN-53-14, which to residents in Phoenix, and provides $148,325 from the execute the purchase of Unreserved, Undesignated more than 67 acres of land in Fund Balance for the Phoenix Farmington, N.M. Indian Center to provide CN-52-14, a bill amending Navajo language and culture the sentencing provisions classes, information seminars of Title 17 of the Navajo and social services for tribal Nation Code, was signed into members residing in the law. Efforts to amend this Phoenix metropolitan area. portion of the code have been A non-profit entity, the ongoing since Jan. 2000, when Indian Center relies on funding the Navajo Nation Council from the Arizona Inter-Tribal eliminated imprisonment and Trust Fund, especially the fines for a number of criminal Navajo Trust Funds to provide offenses. services to more than 4,000 The new amendments Navajos living in the city that restore some of those changes utilize their services. made in response to the lack of The UUFB funds will detention facilities. cover the salary of two Navajo “This is a good law,” staff working for the Indian President Shelly said. Center to continue providing Law and Order Committee Navajo language and culture HEALTHY LIVES Navajo Nation President Ben Shelly compromised with lawmakers and signed the Healthy Dine’ Nation Act of 2014 into law on Nov. 20, members Alton Shepherd opportunities for urban 2014. He said his administration has long advocated for healthy living. (Photo by Rick Abasta) (Cornfields, Ganado, Jeddito, Navajos. WINDOW ROCK, I am signing this legislation signing. sentiments and called Kinlichee, Steamboat) and BN-57-14 was also signed Ariz.— Navajo Nation into law to continue our Simpson said, “From the members of the Alliance Edmund Yazzie (Church into law by President Shelly President Ben Shelly, with commitment to healthy bottom of my heart, thank “champions” that never gave Rock, Iyanbito, Mariano Lake, to provide $980,000 in a stroke of his pen, signed lifestyles for our people. you, Mr. President. I think up. Pinedale, Smith Lake Thoreau closing costs for the purchase the Healthy Dine’ Nation “Diabetes is an enemy that we compromised on (the “Many of our young joined President Shelly for of 67.39 acres of land in Act of 2014 into law on we will conquer by fighting legislation).” people out there don’t have the signing and expressed accordance with the tribal Nov. 20, 2014 and changed this war together,” he added. Denisa Livingston, the tools to make the healthy gratitude. Land Acquisition Policy. the dynamics for the war on The amendments to Title a member of the Dine’ and wise decisions on living “I just want to say thank The land, previously diabetes. 24 of the Navajo Nation Community Advocacy more healthy and active you. First and foremost, it was owned by Rolling Mesa, LLC, His decision to enact Code will be imposed upon Alliance, said food is not lifestyles,” Nez said. “Again, a team effort and I appreciate is located at the southwest Legislation No. CN-54- gross receipts at a rate of two only a material pleasure, but you’re leading the way, Mr. the task force,” Shepherd said. junction of Highway 371 and 14 and amend Title 24 of percent upon minimal-to-no- nourishment for our bodies, President, across the world “Now that the jails are adequate, N376 in Farmington. The the Navajo Nation Code nutritional value food items minds and spirit. and across Indian Country.” we need to update the criminal owner agreed upon the fair came after negotiations sold. “Eating well is what will Deborah Cayedito, code to where it is, including market value purchase price with council delegates and The revenues generated sustain and empower us for another member of the giving the judges a little bit of $980,000 on Jan. 13, 2014. food advocacy groups to from the sales tax may be the generations to come. Alliance, said she was more flexibility.” Funds to purchase the land will ensure the proper monitoring utilized for community From this day forward, we raised as a farm worker and “President, thank you,” come from the FY 2014 Land provisions were included. wellness projects such as will move from being a food understood the purpose of Yazzie said. Acquisition Trust Fund. When the legislation was farming, vegetable gardens, desert and return to being a food. The new construction of The Navajo Nation first presented, President greenhouses, farmers food oasis,” she said. “We are making historical additional detention facilities Gaming Enterprise, Upper Shelly’s concerns with markets, clean water, exercise Livingston called the movements,” she said, has provided the Nation an Fruitland Chapter and Navajo definitions of junk food and equipment, health classes and signing a “historical event” adding, “and from the opportunity to address violent Nation Division of Economic the monitoring processes of more. and praised the president gathering of data that we’ve and serious crimes committed Development will utilize tax collections resulted in a Legislation sponsor for his decision to enact the done, we can take it back within tribal jurisdiction. These the land for commercial veto. At the time, he called Danny Simpson (Becenti, legislation. home and start youth planters are offenses not prosecuted by development. The next step is the Healthy Dine’ Nation Act Crownpoint, Huerfano, “Again, you are leading and teach them how to plant.” the U.S. Attorney’s Office. to put the land into trust status. progressive and asked for Lake Valley, Nageezi, the way, Mr. President, The seed has been planted On July 23, 2012, the President Shelly vetoed further clarification. Nahodishgish, Standing across the world and across and the war against diabetes Law and Order Committee Legislation No. CN-56-14. “This administration has Rock, White Rock) and Indian Country. We thank on the Navajo Nation established a task force The legislation would have advocated for healthy living co-sponsor Jonathan Nez you for your commitment, continues. to review the sentencing amended Title 5 of the Navajo since we took office. Vice (Navajo Mountain, Oljato, your leadership and your provisions for the criminal Nation Code to authorize the President Jim has run across Shonto, Tsah Bii Kin) joined dedication to a healthy Dine’ code. The task force hosted formation of a low-profit LLC. this great Nation all four supporters of the legislation Nation. Ahe’hee,” Livingston public hearings and a radio However, the president said the years of our administration,” at the Office of the President said. forum for their outreach efforts. uncertainty and confusion of President Shelly said. “Today, and Vice President for the Nez echoed Livingston’s Public sentiment was for the business structure played stronger sentencing provisions. a factor in his decision to veto The amendments were the legislation. made for enforcement, He had particular concerns $1 billion settlement funding drawdown begins general provisions, sentencing, with the lack of amendments WINDOW ROCK, much more is needed to offenses, and penalties. The to the internal revenue code to Ariz.—The Navajo Nation is address the 520 abandoned 132-page bill also includes reflect the LLC structure. finally receiving funds from uranium mines on the Navajo amendments correlating to the $1 billion Anadarko v. Nation, he added. Tronox settlement. According “Any funds resulting from the next several days. Etsitty was approved by the Budget to terms of the settlement, the this lawsuit are welcomed is the executive director of and Finance Committee Navajo Nation will receive and long overdue,” President Navajo EPA. and the Comprehensive $1.2 billion for cleanup of 50 Shelly said. “I understand the initial Environmental Response sites. The claims against amount we will receive is Compensation and Liability More than $985 million Anadarko and Kerr- $26.4 million. This is 60 Act, he added. will be paid to the Navajo McGee involved cleanup percent of the total amount On Jan. 23, the U.S. EPA Nation. The Navajo for a number of former we are set to receive,” Etsitty issued a news release from Environmental Protection uranium mines and uranium said. “The remaining 40 Region 9 in San Francisco Agency is also receiving processing site located in percent will come in a few that stated the Anadarko and funding from the settlement, Cove, Ariz. and Shiprock, more months to the Nation Kerr-McGee settlement was a total of $43 million. The N.M. The Navajo Nation and U.S. EPA.” finalized and that funds are initial drawdown from the Department of Justice and Other claimants, including to be disbursed for cleanups settlement will be 60 percent, Navajo EPA worked together U.S. EPA, will also begin around the country. or $26.4 million, which will to bring the settlement to a receiving funds from the Jared Blumenfeld, U.S. be deposited in the next 10 conclusion. settlement. U.S. EPA is set EPA Regional Administrator days. President Shelly to receive approximately for the Pacific Southwest, The remaining 40 percent became involved with the $600 million to cleanup 50 said communities from the will be paid after three bankruptcy case when he abandoned uranium mines Navajo Nation to Henderson, months. was previously serving as on the Navajo Nation. In Nev. are finally getting “These funds will go vice president. During the addition to the U.S. EPA, funding needed to take toward the cleanup of 50 previous administration, he other claimants in the case critical steps toward cleaning abandoned uranium mines met with Allison McFarlane, included 22 states, four up toxic legacies that pollute on the Navajo Nation. On chairman of the U.S. Nuclear environmental response their environment. Dec. 12, 2013, we announced Regulatory Commission trusts, and a trust for a “After decades of trying that we prevailed in the about prioritizing cleanups on number of environmental and to avoid their environmental bankruptcy case involving the Nation. tort plaintiffs. responsibilities, Anadarko Anadarko Petroleum and On Jan. 23, 2015, Stephen According to Etsitty, is today paying billions Kerr-McGee Corporation,” Etsitty announced that since the $26.4 million will be of dollars to immediately said Navajo Nation President an appeal was not filed with wired to the Navajo EPA fund these and other critical Ben Shelly. the presiding judges, the Hazardous Substances Fund. environmental cleanups,” BILLION DOLLAR MAN Stephen Etsitty, executive director of Navajo Although we are receiving Navajo Nation would begin EPA, said the $1 billion settlement was the result of work between Navajo The fund is authorized by a Blumenfeld said. EPA and DOJ. (Photo by Rick Abasta) more than a billion dollars, receiving settlement funds in fund management plan that Page 8 Hózhoojí Nahat’áh Baa Hane’ February 2015 Administration Building No. 1 State of the Nation Congressional delegation visits opens for service once again From >> PAGE 1 Navajo Nation for ONHIR

23rd NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL President Shelly’s report to Council was met with a positive response. (Photo by Rick Abasta)

From >> Page 1 LEGACY ISSUES Navajo Nation President Ben Shelly spent a large part of his term dealing with legacy issues left by past administrations. One such to black mold infestation. The president said construction was example was the lack of proper maintenance on tribal buildings that led to expected to begin by the spring of 2015. black mold infestations affecting the health of workers. (Photo by Rick Abasta) President Shelly said he approved $8.3 million in supplemental funding for chapters on Jan. 6. The approval came after WINDOW ROCK, Ariz.—On Jan. 12, a crowd of tribal discussions with his legal counsel and the Office of Management employees and officials gathered on a dreary morning to celebrate and Budget. the renovations of Administration Building No. 1. The cold “Some of these projects were not in compliance with the weather did not deter them from participating in the celebration Appropriations Act, but we worked around that to approve the held in a white tent outside the building, however. projects because of their importance to their respective chapters,” Thanks to Oakland-Arviso Construction Co., the renovated he said. building is finally after 28 months of renovation activities. The president also mentioned that the Appropriations Act Housed inside the newly improved building are Division states that project funding will be approved only if they are listed of General Services, Finance, Office of Management and on the five-year CIP plan, which was recently approved in the Budget, Department of Personnel Management, and Design summer of 2014 after 14 years of limbo. and Engineering Services. He said fiscal conservatism resulted in a $30 million surplus President Shelly said the building’s completion was the in the UUFB, which was in the red by $22 million when the product of cooperation between the Executive and Legislative Shelly-Jim administration took office. Branches of tribal government. “I loosened the purse strings,” President Shelly said. “Whoever is taking office next, I hope you took notes because President Shelly spoke of the repatriation mission to Paris, this is how you get things done: by working together, not against which was undertaken by Vice President Rex Lee Jim on Dec. each other,” President Shelly said. 11, 2014. The purpose of the trip was for the return of sacred Yei He said Operation Breathe Safe began on Sept. 15, 2011 and Bi Chei masks that went up for auction by a private collector. closed the administration building due to black mold Members of the Navajo Human Rights Commission and RELOCATION TRAGEDY Top, center, Navajo Nation President Ben Shelly contamination. Employees were complaining of headaches and the Navajo Nation Washington Office joined the vice president. met with a Congressional delegation recently to discuss issues with the Office other medical issues. Seven masks were purchased at a cost of $9,000 by the of Navajo Hopi Indian Relocation in Flagstaff. He said that Navajo families Personal protective gear was required for employees to retrieve Navajo delegation before they went on auction. The president that were relocated are having trouble adjusting. Bottom, Joining the delegation was Ariz. Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick who said she knows the plight of natives documents and equipment that needed to be decontaminated. The said the action sent a message to the world that sacred cultural personally after growing up on an Indian reservation. (Photo by Rick Abasta) mold infestation was the result of non-maintenance. resources should not be sold and that they violate the human “Water began to leak into the building and the walls,” the rights of indigenous people around the globe. WINDOW ROCK, Ariz.—On Jan. 24 and 25, Navajo Nation president explained. President Shelly said, “We are grateful for the efforts of the U.S. President Ben Shelly met a Congressional delegation in Window The mildew eventually resulted in a strong odor that gave State Department, U.S. Embassy-Paris and the U.S. Department Rock to discuss the Office of Navajo Hopi Indian Relocation. employees headaches. Something had to be done. Closing the of Homeland Security for their assistance in returning these Congressional members of the U.S. House of Representatives building meant employees had to find available workspace from traditional masks back to the Navajo Nation. representing the House Appropriations Committee and other tribal divisions and departments. The president also spoke about a Dec. 8, 2014 town hall Subcommittees on the Interior and Environment traveled to Ariz. “More than $5 million was spent to remediate the building. meeting in Gallup regarding the Gallup Detoxification Center. to meet with the Navajo Nation and Hopi Tribe. Thank you Speaker Pro Tem Bates and Delegate Hale for securing He said more funding was needed to address the alcoholism Rep. Ken Calvert (R-Calif.), Rep. Mike Simpson (R-ID), the funding that made these renovations possible,” President epidemic in the city. Rep. Tom Cole (R-Okla.), Rep. Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.) Shelly said. In. June 2013, the former Na’nizhoozhi Center Inc. closed its and Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick (D-Ariz.) met with President Shelly Vice President Rex Lee Jim spoke next and provided his doors after providing more than 20 years of service when funding and members of the 23rd Navajo Nation Council to discuss the remarks entirely in Navajo. dried up. Realizing the importance of the facility, the Navajo Office of the Inspector General report on the federal relocation He said the renovated building was like your own home; it Nation invested funding and reopened it as Gallup Detox Center. program administered by ONHIR. is the center of learning and thinking for family and the Navajo “To date, we have spent more than $1.6 million providing Jodi Gillete, Senior Policy Advisor for Native American people. services,” President Shelly said. “Despite our partnership with Affairs for the White House Domestic Policy Council joined “Take good care of (the building). Be responsible for it. If the city, it is not enough to operate the facility and provide the delegation. The federal delegation toured the Nahata Dzil you see trash, don’t just walk over it, pick it up and dispose of needed services. community and families in Jeddito to see the firsthand results it,” Vice President Jim said. “Talk to each other and work with “We are looking at more than $2 million annually that is of relocation. each other in a good way. Incorporate K’é into your office.” needed,” he added. President Shelly explained the countless socio-economic He also encouraged employees to quickly process the requests The president also mentioned a House bill on Indian Energy disparities that resulted from lack of infrastructure and economic from the public. that was introduced during the 113th Congress by Congressman development. Before being relocated, many of the Navajo “You were all in crowded workspaces. You know what it’s Don Young, chairman of the House Natural Resources Committee. families were self-reliant and maintained a healthy lifestyle like to be waiting. For this reason, quickly process your work “The bill proposed to streamline the federal bureaucratic through livestock and farming. for the people,” Vice President Jim said. process in energy development for large land base tribes,” However, relocation has disrupted that lifestyle and many Chief of Staff Arbin Mitchell also gave words of thanks and President Shelly said. entered into a modern world that they had no experience in. encouragement. After passing the House, the bill is now at the Senate for “Our history is tied up in the land that you see,” President “We worked very hard on this building. I would like to thank deliberation. The Navajo Nation Washington Office reported that Shelly said. “The relocation of Navajos from land they lived on Design and Engineering Services. Also Facilities Maintenance the bill would be reintroduced in the 114th Congress. Another created traumatic ripples that continue to disrupt and destroy and NOSHA,” Mitchell said. “Those are a few departments that bill being monitored by the D.C. office is the Indian Trust Asset lives 41 years later. assisted with making this happen. Reform Act, which proposes authorization of an eight-year trust “These people lost their homes, their heritage and their “It took a lot of money, just like president said,” he added. asset demonstration project that would enable tribes to develop livelihood,” he added. Funds were pooled together from the Unreserved, Undesignated plans. Still today, many families have not received compensation. Fund Balance and indirect cost monies. Carryover funds were President Shelly also praised the enactment of the Navajo Others, mostly elderly, are forced to go before ONHIR in Flagstaff also leveraged to cover the costs of construction. Department of Health and said it was a major step toward tribal and are often subject to interrogation to establish benefits. Far too “We’re working on Administration Building No. 2 right now. self-determination because it allows the Navajo Nation to often, these individuals are denied benefits and have to endure When you add these two buildings, it probably runs close to $10 regulate healthcare on tribal lands. a review process to overturn the decision. million,” he said. “Our newly formed Navajo Department of Health will ensure “This costly and unjust process puts added stress on our people Jonathan Hale, chairman of the Health, Education and Human the public health service needs are met through assessments, and only increases the cost of relocation,” said the president. Services Committee, said Navajo elders would use this building policy development and quality assurance,” he said. For families that have not been relocated, the tremendous needs renovation as a lesson to learn from. While changes won’t happen overnight, the president said for infrastructure development and roads continue to dominate. “We’re at a time when our buildings are aging and in need creation of the first tribally administered Medicaid agency was Other considerations include the deteriorating school facilities, of repairs. Our elders have always said to us, don’t you see the a possibility, after a recent feasibility study conducted by the in spite of 2004 commitments by the federal government to needs of your home? Are you going to fix it? I’m thankful for U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. replace 14 schools. your work here,” Hale said. The president also mentioned a recent visit by members of “The Little Singer Community School which you will see later He said employees had to endure cramped conditions for the the U.S. Congress to follow up with the Navajo Nation and Hopi today, is one of the last schools on the 2004 replacement school past two years and that many complained about illness being Tribe on report by the Office of the Inspector General. The report construction priority listing,” President Shelly said. spread and other issues. was on the status of the federal relocation program administered He noted that Navajo children learn better when traditional “Thank you. Take care of it. When this building was first by the Office of Navajo Hopi Indian Relocation Program. culture and language are supplanted in their curriculum. constructed, it wasn’t done right. Now it’s up to code and has President Shelly said the federal government’s failed relocation Although the two-day meeting and tour of the Navajo Nation blueprints for the work that was done. Take care of it in case program that was imposed on tribal members has resulted in was brief, President Shelly strongly advocated for the continued something like this happens again 10 years from now,” Hale said. dismal living conditions. funding of ONHIR and recommended addressing the pitfalls Virgil Brown, director for the Division of General Services, “We have many families without running water, electricity and of the accommodation agreement entered into by the Navajo took a lead role on the project and directed his crew from unfinished homes. Others are still awaiting relocation,” he said. Nation and Hopi Tribe. Facilities Maintenance to work with DES to complete the work. The Navajo Nation encouraged the federal delegation to He also shared issues impacting families in the former Bennett “It was a team effort. That’s the only was that things get going continue funding ONHIR and provide for adequate benefits to Freeze area, where time has stood still for more than four decades. fast. Administration Building No. 2 is being built right now and all families forced off their ancestral homelands more than 41 Families in the impacted area continue to live without running it will probably be finished a lot faster than this one,” Brown said. years ago. water, roads and substandard housing. President Shelly concluded that it is his responsibility to “Some families are forced to live in camper shells. I hope the ensure continuity of government and direct services to the Navajo subcommittee has listened to our concerns and will provide us people, regardless of the political climate that exists. with a favorable outcome,” President Shelly said. “Vice President Jim and I stand prepared to continue providing stability for these government functions until a new president has been elected and installed into office,” President Shelly said.