HOWNIKAN Dé’mengises | June 2021

Top photo: A bullfrog rests at a pond near CPN administration. Largest Tribally-owned national A LOOK INSIDE Page 5 bank acquires The First State Bank First National Bank & Trust, owned by Citizen Potawatomi Nation, announced it entered into a definitive agreement to acquire MidWest Community Financial Corp. and its wholly-owned subsidiary, The First State Bank. The Navy pilot trainee acquisition represents Oklahoma’s lives life to the fullest largest mergers and acquisitions transaction in banking since 2016. Pages 11-13 “The joining of these two historic banking institutions demonstrates that 2021 Tribal election candidates we live in a land of opportunity,” said Tribal Chairman John “Rocky” Barrett. Page 15 “One bank was born in a tiny farming community in western Oklahoma, and the other began in a double-wide trailer on a gravel parking lot. Both share a common trait accounting for their very uncommon success: dedication to providing the best customer service. Opportunity is the doorway to success Tips for making regalia for a bank and its customers, no CPN’s First National Bank & Trust Co.’s acquisition of The First State matter how small the beginnings.” Bank expands the Nation’s banking service across central Oklahoma. Pages 18-23 Bryan Cain, President and CEO of FSB employees, including Chairman About First National Bank & Trust FNB, said the like-minded cultures and CEO David Durrett and Tribal Executive and First National Bank & Trust is based Legislative updates and missions of the two locally-owned President and CFO Chris Turner, will join the FNB family. in Shawnee, Oklahoma, with branches institutions create an ideal alliance. in Lawton, Holdenville, Granite and Page 24 “FNB specializes in consumer “We have gotten to know the FNB Mangum, with a loan production office leadership team, and they share a in Edmond, Oklahoma. Chartered Walking on services, and FSB has a skillful team of commercial experts for every strikingly similar philosophy on banking as First Oklahoma Bank in June sized business,” Cain said. “These and serving customers, which will help 1983, it was purchased by the Citizen combined talents will mean greater with a seamless transition,” Durrett said. Potawatomi Nation in February 1989 one-stop financial resources for all and changed its name to First National “This partnership is a win-win for everyone, Bank & Trust. Located at 130 East Oklahoma communities that we including shareholders, customers, MacArthur in Shawnee, Oklahoma,

NON-PROFIT serve. We look forward to expanding FIRST CLASS employees and communities served its assets exceed $305 million. FNB’s footprint westward and STANDARD MAIL STANDARD by both organizations,” Turner said. throughout the metro area.” About The First State Bank No budgeted Tribal operating funds FNB will add FSB’s Oklahoma City, were used for the acquisition. The First State Bank was founded in 1902 Midwest City and Canute branches in Canute, Oklahoma, and is recognized to its current roster of locations The acquisition is subject to regulatory as Oklahoma’s oldest continuously PR SRT STD PR SRT US POSTAGE

PAID in Shawnee, Lawton, Holdenville, US POSTAGE PERMIT NO 49 PERMIT PAID PAID and shareholder approval and is operating state-chartered bank by the PERMIT NO 49 PERMIT NO 49 PERMIT U.S. POSTAGE NON-PROFIT ORG NON-PROFIT STIGLER, OK 74462 STIGLER, OK 74462 STIGLER, OK 74462 PR SRT FIRST CLASS FIRST PR SRT Mangum and Granite, along with its expected to close in the third quarter state banking commission. Specializing loan production office in Edmond. of 2021. D.A. Davidson & Co. served in small and middle-market lending, it The combined bank will have assets as financial adviser and McAfee & has total assets of over $408 million in excess of $700 million and rank Taft as legal adviser to MCFC and and is located at 3030 NW Expressway as one of the largest independent FSB. Paul Foster Law Offices P.C. in Oklahoma City, with branches in community banks in central Oklahoma. served as legal adviser to FNB. Midwest City and Canute, Oklahoma. 2 JUNE 2021 HOWNIKAN Often overlooked uses for one of the most common “weeds” Bright yellow dandelions popping up in lawns and fields across North America signifies warmer weather’s arrival. While some see these plants as a nuisance, they are from the same family as sunflowers and offer many potential benefits. Every part of the plant has a use, whether it is making tea from the roots, crafting salads from its greens or making syrup and garnishes out of the flowers. “‘Weeds’ are only ‘weeds’ because they’re plants that are in the wrong place,” said Susannah Howard, Citizen Potawatomi Nation tribal member and graduate student at the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry. “There’s a lot to be said for plants that come up in places we don’t necessarily want them, but they’re definitely still usable.” Research indicates not all dandelion varieties are native to every part of North America, but the plants now thrive across the continent. While some employ eradication measures, Thinking outside-the-box for plants that some attempt to eradicate could provide key solutions to food accessibility. for many centuries, people sought them out as a source of food and “We need the plants that are resilient, and want to forage elsewhere, make sure you around you who have these foraging medicine. Today, more are becoming we need the people who are resilient as have permission from the landowner relationships with the land. People like aware of their advantages again. well,” she said. “The plants that grow and consider any risks associated with Linda Black Elk and Caleb Musgrave through the cracks on a sidewalk and eating food from their land,” she said. are great to follow on social media.” “As we move into this world of food the edges of fields that are in fallow, sovereignty and revitalizing cultural things like that … are useful. They Howard said unwise foraging decisions Uses knowledge … I think there’s a can be edible, but they are also useful can have negative consequences, and realization that we have to support understanding what the area’s current To create a cleansing tea, harvest for retaining any sort of water and dandelion roots, then cut them into plants that support us,” she said. nutrients for other plants and animals.” and historical uses are could prevent consuming unwanted chemicals. small pieces. Roast at a low heat in a Potawatomi believe plants and animals Foraging cast iron skillet, stirring occasionally have more knowledge than humans, “It’s so hard to find a place that doesn’t to prevent burning. Once they begin as they are older and wiser. They Howard stressed the importance have any anthropogenic impact related to darken slightly and emit a rich also provide specific benefits and of employing safety when to it,” she said. “I don’t think it’s smell, remove from the heat. While play a role in the earth’s ecological harvesting, as there are many impossible to find good, safe foraging optional, this step brings out the balance, therefore require respect. risks involved with foraging. opportunities, but I think taking prior deep, earthy flavors. Then use one Dandelions are no exception. precautions, like not eating stuff found teaspoon per 8 ounces of boiling water, “There is a serious concern about near roads and washing your greens and steep for eight to 10 minutes. “It’s inspiring how you can learn a lot inadvertently consuming environmental before eating them are some simple Feel free to mix with other herbs, from plants that are able to survive toxins while foraging, coming from ways to reduce the risk of getting sick.” seasonings, sweeteners and flavors. crazy environments,” Howard said. any number of sources, like land maintenance run-off including chemical For those new to foraging, Howard Dandelion greens, or leaves, History and benefits fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides, and encourages reaching out to those have a mild taste when picked salt from road maintenance,” she said. with more experience, whether before its flowers bloom. According to the Chef Sean in-person or virtually. Sherman, “Although it’s unclear if Knowing the area firsthand, “They’re not as bitter,” Howard explained. dandelion, purslane, and plantain are especially acreages owned “Find people who are good at it in indigenous, there is some evidence personally, mitigates some, but not your area to mentor you, teaching you After washing, the leaves can add depth that they may have reached North all, pollution-related concerns. which plants are safe to eat, and spend of flavor to salads. Sautéing them America in the pre-Columbian at least a year just getting to know with oil, aromatics, vinegar and bacon era, suggesting that these plants “If you don’t have land or don’t have any your local environment,” Howard can results in a dish that is similar to were already being eaten by Native foraging prospects on your land and said. “Look to the Indigenous people collard greens, a Southern U.S. staple. Americans before Europeans arrived.” The yellow buds offer beautiful garnishes, Sherman is an Oglala Lakota Nation or with a little time and effort, can citizen, a chef and cookbook author transform into syrup, jelly and more. based in Minnesota. He seeks to utilize traditional, native ingredients Howard found a recipe for dandelion in modern recipes and encourages wine during a project researching the Native Americans and others to role of women in early 20th century return to the land through his work. Vermont foodways. It was in her non- Potawatomi great-great-grandmother’s The Sioux Chef’s Indigenous Kitchen collection, which has passed down noted that preparing dandelion is as for generations. Although she has easy as mixing it with edible plants that not had the opportunity to create grow in most yards to create a salad that it, the experience inspired her to dig is “delicious and loaded with vitamins. deeper into the food culture of her Instead of trying to eradicate these plants Potawatomi ancestors. She encourages in our lawn, we can just eat them up!” others to reach out to friends and kin to discover new recipes as well. According to Medical News Today, the powerful plant can provide “A lot of people have a story in their antioxidants like beta-carotene, lower background of lean times and trying cholesterol, regulate blood sugar, to survive off the land and difficult reduce inflammation, lower blood conditions,” she said. “There is a pressure, boost immunity, help with potential for people to fall back on digestion and protect the skin. that resilience and that creativity.” Dandelions and other “unwanted” As a student conducting research at vegetation may hold key insight SUNY-ESF, Howard welcomes others into providing access to nutrients, who are interested in Potawatomi- sustenance and environmental related plants to connect by email at management, Howard said. [email protected]. HOWNIKAN JUNE 2021 3 CPN updates dilapidated sign at Tecumseh park

The Charles Martin Park in Tecumseh, “It was fun because we got to see so Oklahoma, near Citizen Potawatomi much and do so much,” she said. Nation tribal headquarters, provides a fun, safe space for families to play. The Martin’s goal was to “give kids a city built it in the mid-1970s as part place to run and romp, and throw of a restoration project to improve and the ball and play basketball. And to update the surrounding neighborhood. get exercise. (It’s) wonderful to walk Construction began as part of the and get exercise. And so I think that’s second large improvement project important, where they can get out of the during CPN tribal member Charles house and do something in the park.” Martin’s time as Tecumseh city manager. The family’s connection to the area “I’m proud of the park, but when I think goes back generations. Both of Martin’s about it, I think about the rehabs that grandparents on both sides resided near we did on the homes and really helped Tecumseh. His grandmother, Birdie those people out,” he said. “And this was Josephine, walked from Kansas to almost in the center of Tecumseh where present-day Oklahoma as a child when we had a dilapidated section that needed her parents took Tribal allotments in attention. And so the housing project what is now Pottawatomie County. was one that drove this whole project.” Sponsored by CPN, Vice-Chairman Linda Capps, Tribal member Charles While Martin currently lives in Altus, Former Tecumseh Mayor Newt Martin (center) and Chairman John “Rocky” Barrett stand next to the Oklahoma, he and his daughters still Copeland named the park after updated sign at Charles Martin Park as a tribute to Martin’s service. feel their ancestors’ presence in the city and admire their father’s service. the Burnett family descendant why it was important because people modern history of Tecumseh,” Capps to honor his contribution to the need to remember,” Nootbaar said said in a 2018 Hownikan column. “He poured his heart into everything he city and the neighborhood. did, but he loved this town,” Lamle said. Martin worked hard to improve the In the family “So whatever he could do to better that The Tribe replaced the dilapidated quality of life for Tribal members wooden sign with Martin’s name on The Martin family’s house was adjacent and the families in this community, that’s and Tecumseh citizens throughout what he wanted to do. He’s a good one.” it and unveiled a new, large metal one his 15 years as city manager. to the park. Nootbaar and her sister in April. His oldest daughter, Kim Patti Lamle helped maintain it and the Thanks to the new sign, Martin’s mark Nootbaar, and CPN Vice-Chairman “While Charles was at Tecumseh, our other municipal park in town, painting on the area will remain sturdy and Linda Capps noticed the old sign’s Tribe had just begun to be a major the tennis courts and repairing the nets. visible for his grandchildren and great- degradation and wanted to improve it. influence in the community. In While developing the layout, Martin grandchildren for years to come. fact, we were still named the Citizen took his daughters to other outdoor “I was proud to be here and am proud Potawatomi Tribe of Oklahoma. The public spaces in the surrounding “It’s a great honor that the to be here, and I was proud of my dad City of Tecumseh, too, had begun cities for inspiration. They played Potawatomi were willing to … for leading the city the way he did. And making important strides under on the equipment and evaluated the build a new sign,” Martin said. I thought it was very sad to watch it Charles’ leadership. I am honored that possibilities. The choices later influenced just fall into disrepair, and nobody was one of our own Citizen Potawatomi the construction of the park, and The Tribe plans to maintain the new doing anything about it. And that’s members played a key role in the Nootbaar remembers those trips fondly. structure for the foreseeable future. 4 JUNE 2021 HOWNIKAN Keeping kids safe from abuse online By Kayla Woody, House of Hope signs of abuse. Learning these red flags DVPI Prevention Specialist of domestic violence and sexual assault can provide necessary assistance to those School closings and virtual learning victims. These red flags can include: have changed the way our children view the digital world. Increased online • Unexplained absences presence that comes with new learning • Sudden changes in behavior norms may put our children at a greater risk of online predators. It’s vital • Changes in school performance that parents, caregivers and educators • Difficulty walking or know how to recognize the signs of sitting comfortably abuse online and how to prevent it. • Withdrawn personality As parents, we generally do everything • Low self-esteem in our power to protect our children • Often feeling ill from harm. But what are parents and caregivers doing to protect children from • Frequent drowsiness bullies, predators and inappropriate Education is key when it comes to content online? The internet is a large preventing abuse, whether from online part of our everyday life as well as our far they can push boundaries and exploit • Making conditions on predators or even those at home. Parents children’s. Using apps and websites where someone’s trust. These red flags include: their relationship and caregivers — and even caring adults, children interact, predators may pose as a like educators, family members or child to gain personal information, such • Asking to keep the relationship secret Not all children have access to a safe neighbors — should always take a child as an address, phone number or school home environment where a parent or • Sending digital currency called seriously when they share information location, or even encourage your child caregiver is concerned for their safety. about abuse from someone else. to come and meet them. The National piece balloons or diamonds The Resource Center on Domestic Children’s Advocacy Center found that • Asking the child to only contact Violence states, “Nearly 10 million If you or someone you know is one in five children experience sexual them on certain apps children are exposed to domestic violence experiencing intimate partner violence, solicitation while on the internet. each year.” These young victims of stalking and/or sexual assault and • Requesting photos from the child abusive domestic situations may not would like more information, please If you have not already, it is time to intro- • Sending links to inappropriate be able to inform a safe adult what is contact the House of Hope at duce cyber safety to your children. Accord- images or videos happening to them, especially with 405-275-3176 or visit us online at ing to the National Sexual Violence Re- the pandemic. Many public schools facebook.com/cpnhouseofhope. • Asking about sexual background (for source Center, parents should discuss red are relying on virtual learning for their flags that indicate online grooming, or the example, if they have been kissed) students, and it is important educators process in which perpetrators judge how • Making suggestive or sexual comments and other adults learn to virtually spot Bodéwadmimwen: Potawatomi language update By Justin Neely, CPN Language The “Related Words” feature allows us Department Director to connect all kinds of words together. So, lets say you look for “cook.” You We are keeping really busy in the will find “he/she is a good cook,” “cook language department. We are something” in all its forms, the word continuing our work on a series for “chef” and other words that of children’s books while teaching conjugate in a similar manner. Monday-Thursday in the Child Development Center’s two facilities. If you go to the “Tags” section, you can click on different topics like astronomy, We have been shooting a number clothing, common words, feelings, of videos to link to on our online birds, weather and traditional activities. dictionary at potawatomidictionary.com. Once you click on the tag, you will It was designed in-house by our IT see words associated with this category, department and has a lot of cool such as if you hit “birds” you will see features. More than 7,000 of the 9,600 all the birds listed in the dictionary. words have at least one audio file. We eventually should have two example The dictionary allows you to search sentences, baseline audio file, historical English to Potawatomi or Potawatomi audio clips of different speakers saying to English. It also allows you from the the words, related words, tags or home page to print a copy either way. categories, and even a video component. We also are constantly working on new We have been focusing a lot of energy content for our two YouTube channels, a part of an Administration for Native two courses at memrise.com — A Day in creating video components for many which can be found if you search Americans grant. We have had thousands the Life and Conversational Potawatomi. of the words. For example, there are for “Justin Neely” and “Potawatomi of students take the course. We are also four main types of verbs as well as using it to offer the language in high We look forward to offering on-site language.” One is more geared toward classes again, which will also be streamed several variations. We are making kids, and one is geared more toward schools in Oklahoma. We currently videos for each type that will show offer the language in Wanette, Shawnee, live late this summer. In the meantime, adults. Each channel has over 150 we also occasionally will do classes on how to conjugate those various verbs. videos. Just recently, we finished up Tecumseh and Maud, and we will be That way, a person won’t just learn adding Seminole High School in the Facebook in the Bodwéwadmimwen a Woody Woodpecker cartoon in the group page at cpn.news/langfb. the word but will be able to use the public domain. We are planning to start fall. We are certified to offer the course word. We also have done some videos shooting our Mtek Wigwam original anywhere in Oklahoma, and it will If we can help you out in any way, that show things like the process of children’s puppet show in the near future. count toward the world language credit please don’t hesitate to contact us. making maple syrup and how we required for graduation. So this summer, traditionally use certain plants with We are currently working with IT to we will be busy revamping and updating the help of Kaya DeerInWater, our revamp our Moodle course, one of the online Moodle course on a new community garden manager. We also our online language platforms. It was learning management system platform. plan to add some short conversations. originally designed over six years ago as In the meantime, we will still have the HOWNIKAN JUNE 2021 5 Navy pilot trainee lives life to the fullest

Tyler Vinson joined the military partially liking it too, and it on a dare. As a senior in high school in makes it click for them. Jackson, California, he and his friends … It’s just kind of like were walking across campus to their next a cool feeling that class when they saw a Navy recruiter. you got them to that point,” Vinson said. “I kind of looked at the paper and then started to walk (away), and my He did not anticipate buddy said, ‘Man, you won’t sign developing many of the up.’ And I was like, ‘Oh? Bet.’ So skills he now teaches I went and signed the paper, and and credits the Navy then they started talking to me, and with opening him up it just kind of happened,” he said. to new possibilities. His non-Potawatomi grandfather also “The military is a served in the Navy as a machinist really good option mate and chaplain, and Vinson felt for anything that you pride in continuing the tradition. want to do,” he said. The Tarter family descendant knew college remained in the future for him, if he decided to attend, and the military seemed like a viable option for building a skill set, traveling and gaining real-world experience. “I think, honestly, when I was 18 and stuff like that, at that point in my life, I didn’t want to go to college. If Naval officer Tyler Vinson and his wife, Allyson, enjoy serving others I would have gone to college, I don’t through the military and medical fields. (Photo provided) even know if I would have made He built up more than 2,000 hours as That personality trait presents it through. I don’t know if I would part of a flight crew on two types of anti- itself as an advantage, especially have been mature enough to do what submarine and maritime surveillance when working with children. I was supposed to do,” he said. aircraft. His position required training The Navy’s Drug Education In his late 20s, Vinson earned his on oceanography, Doppler theory, sonar and more, primarily to track submarines. for Youth program encourages Bachelor of Science in workforce personnel to volunteer as education and development from “It’s fun being up in the air,” Vinson mentors for youths between 9 Southern Illinois University. He said. “The crew mentality’s a lot of fun and 18 about the dangers of wanted to become an officer after stuff too, where you hang out. You drug use, bullying, alcohol and spending more than ten years on active become real close with the people more. Military members sign duty, and the path fit his future. on your crew ... because you’re doing their children up to participate in “I figured as somebody coming from eight, 10 hours in a plane with them, DEFY, and Vinson volunteered the enlisted side to the officer side, I just kind of hanging out and talking with the program while on would be able to relate to the sailors while you’re working, kind of thing.” active duty in the 2010s. that work under me and kind of help To advance his career, Vinson is preparing “And then one week, we’d do them understand why we’re doing what Vinson attends school and training to for flight school to become a Navy pilot. a summer camp where we’d go become a Naval pilot. (Photo provided) we’re doing and make them actually Years of training lie ahead of him, but to a camp, and we’d teach them, want to do it. Whereas if somebody his attitude remains relentlessly positive. and we’d play games, and we’d do Vinson will begin flight school just tells you, ‘Do this because I said,’ all that kind of stuff,” Vinson said. later this year, and encourages it’s less motivating,” Vinson said. “I want to go back and fly the planes those interested in military service that I was already flying on when I “It was kind of cool for me to be able to research options beforehand. Globetrotting was on the enlisted side … but it’s to teach kids about drugs and safety not guaranteed. I could end up flying The Citizen Potawatomi Nation During the 10 years he spent on and staying away from them and how helicopters or whatever else, whatever Cultural Heritage Center honors active duty, Vinson traveled around they can ruin life and stuff like that.” they need. But I’m excited just to Tribal members who served and places the world — Bahrain, Turkey, Qatar, fly. I think it’ll be fun,” he said. As he moved up in rank, he also their pictures on the Veterans Wall of Japan, the Philippines, Indonesia and began showing new members the Honor. If you are a veteran or active more. He and other members enjoyed Enlightening others basics of the planes’ systems. duty military and would like your place observing each place’s unique culture on the wall, provide your information and taking part in different highlights Vinson considers himself an extrovert, “If it’s something that’s important to you at [email protected]. of the local flavor. They bought hand- always willing to meet new people or something that you find interesting or tailored suits in the Middle East at or help someone talk through a something that you like, then teaching a deep discount, and Vinson got a problem. In the last few years, he is going to be fun. Because when you traditional tattoo while in Japan. discovered he enjoys teaching as well. find that student that they end up really 6 JUNE 2021 HOWNIKAN Potawatomi tribal history exhibit dedicated at Burnett’s Mound By Tim Hrenchir, Topeka Capital-Journal This article was originally published in the Topeka Capital-Journal on April 30, 2021. The story was written by Tribal member Tim Hrenchir. Potawatomi tribal members were forced at gunpoint in 1838 to leave their homes in Indiana and walk a 660-mile route known as the Trail of Death, Jon Boursaw said Thursday. They then lived in what is now Linn County in east-central Kansas, where 600 members died of cholera and were Skyline Park highlights Potawatomi history and Chief Abram Burnett. buried in unmarked graves before the Potawatomi were relocated in the late at a ceremony in southwest Topeka About 70 people attended Thursday’s 1840s to the Topeka area, Boursaw said. to dedicate an exhibit focusing gathering at the exhibit, which can be on Potawatomi tribal history. reached by going to S.W. 35th and A native Topekan and a Citizen Gage Boulevard, then traveling about Potawatomi Nation tribal legislator, He stressed that the Potawatomi have five blocks west and one block north. Boursaw was among those who spoke been here since before Topeka became a city in 1854 and As young man, Burnett was a protégé of Kansas became a Rev. McCoy, who later was involved in state in 1861. the establishment of Indian reservations in Kansas, including the Potawatomi. Boursaw spearheaded He served as one of McCoy’s principal efforts to create that interpreters during the 1820s and later was exhibit, which features an important mediator for the Potawatomi tribe. As the son of a Potawatomi Chief, three interpretive Burnett was considered a hereditary chief signs. It stands at the among the Potawatomi. As an interpreter, entrance to Skyline he signed the Treaty of 1837, calling for Park at Burnett’s the relocation of the Potawatomi. While Mound, the site of living among the Wabash Potawatomi, Topeka’s highest point. Burnett became close friends with Father Petit, the Catholic missionary in the area. The signs include information “There’s a lot to be told here, about Burnett’s and I encourage you to read Mound’s the panels,” Boursaw said. namesake, Chief Burnett’s first wife, Dah-Moosh-Ke- Shawnee County Commissioners Abram Burnett, who Kaw. They were married by Father owned the land where Petit in 1838 just prior to the tribe’s Aaron Mays and Bill Riphahn and Skyline Park is located removal to Kansas. She died in 1842. Topeka City Manager Brent Trout and lived near the were also among those present. mound until he died Skies were mostly clear and Thursday’s ceremony came more than at age 57 in 1870. temperatures in the upper 70s as a year after the exhibit was created in those present heard from speakers “I’m very proud of March 2020 through a partnership who included Boursaw, Citizen this exhibit because between Shawnee County Parks Potawatomi Nation Chairman John it not only tells and Recreation and the Oklahoma- “Rocky” Barrett, Shawnee County the Burnett story based Citizen Potawatomi Nation. Commissioner Kevin Cook, county parks but it tells how we and recreation director Tim Laurent Dedication ceremonies were Burnett’s Mound is named after Abram Burnett, a Potawatomi got here, where and Allyson Shove, vice president of postponed until this month because Chief, who farmed and traded horses and oxen on this property. we were before we Contrary to popular belief, he is not buried on this property. marketing for Azura Credit Union, of the COVID-19 pandemic. got here,” Boursaw Burnett was born November 1812 near Muncie, Indiana, which has teamed up with the county said. “It talks about the son of Potawatomi Chief Shau-Uque-Be and Cone-Zo- on efforts to improve Skyline Park. Learn more about Citizen Potawatomi Quah and named Nan-Wesh-Mah. He attended Issac Mcoy’s four individuals who Nation history and culture by visiting the Baptist missionary school for Indian children in Fort Wayne, were key members The Potawatomi history exhibit is CPN Cultural Heritage Center in person Indiana. After his father was killed, he was adopted by his of the Tribe while “just one more compelling reason to or online at potawatomiheritage.com and mother’s cousin, Abraham Burnett, and took his name. we were here.” visit Skyline Park,” Laurent said. Facebook @CPNCulturalHeritage. HOWNIKAN JUNE 2021 7 The Tonight Show host Jimmy Fallon shines a light on Nashville musician

After a disappointing 2020, Tribal with him. Fallon used an app to Due to coronavirus restrictions, The member Thad Cockrell anticipated identify the song, and soon after, Roots and Cockrell connected using a the end of his music career. The Cockrell got the call from the show. live stream. As they finished, Cockrell pandemic halted touring, closed shouted, “We did it, Jimmy!” venues, forced reductions in recording “Some people call it serendipity. I would studio staff and more. At his home in blame it on God,” Cockrell said. “What makes him so, so fantastic is when Nashville in early January 2021, he I met him, he was like, ‘Man, thank you The Citizen Potawatomi Nation so much for your music.’ And, ‘My wife wrote down his New Year’s resolutions. CARES Act program also helped the High on the list: find a new job. and I, we love your music and this song Melot family descendant continue so much, and the story is helping so The next day, he received a phone call his career throughout 2020. many people out.’ And what I love about that is that there wasn’t an ‘I.’ He didn’t from his manager with a request to “Getting financial assistance last year was be the musical guest on The Tonight say, ‘I like your music.’ It was him and incredibly helpful,” he said. “It helped me his wife. It was like a team,” Cockrell said. Show starring Jimmy Fallon. stay afloat. It actually helped me make “I’ve been able to make music new music, which is really amazing.” As coronavirus cases decline, the show plans to invite him on again professionally for my entire adult “An incredible experience” life, which is an incredible gift. And for an in-studio performance. so my thought was like, ‘Well, receive After receiving his manager’s call, NBC “It’s my anthem” all that as a gift, and maybe I’ve done booked him as the musical guest three my part here.’ And I was about to weeks later, on January 26. The house After appearing on The Tonight Show, The lyrics of Swingin’ speak about move forward, but little did I know band for The Tonight Show, The Roots, Tribal member Thad Cockrell continues to perseverance, dedication and resisting the that there was this incredible person learned Cockrell’s song Swingin’ in make a career in music despite hardships urge to give up. Cockrell recognizes the that heard my song,” Cockrell said. anticipation. He called playing with throughout the pandemic. (Photo provided) irony of the opportunity to perform on them an “incredible experience.” national late-night TV just as he prepared Swingin’ caught Fallon’s attention week,’ I’m like, ‘What is going on? to move on from his music career after one day while he browsed through a “I’m a massive fan of The Roots. So Like, can you say that again? Because I two decades and seven studio albums. hardware store in New York City. Its hearing from the producer, ‘Hey, don’t think I heard you correctly.’ And message of perseverance connected they’ve been working on the song this they just crushed it,” Cockrell said. Continued on next page Building bridges, connections through Bodéwadmimwen

Citizen Potawatomi Nation Police Collins explained. “You’re giving and Department Sgt. Chris Berry makes his receiving, giving and receiving. way to the Cultural Heritage Center Friday afternoons before his shift for a “It’s great to see how Potawatomi one-on-one Potawatomi language class and non-Potawatomi take this.” with instructor Robert Collins. Berry Passion sees it as an opportunity to challenge his mind and understand more about Sgt. Berry began his police the Nation and people he serves. career at the age of 21, serving municipalities across Oklahoma “I am the type of person when I get before beginning his tenure at CPN. involved with a community, I want to be involved in everything,” Berry “One thing I do when I’m out on patrol said. “I saw things with Potawatomi is I drive and think about ‘How I should writing and words on it, and I thought, say this word?’” Berry explained. “I’ll try ‘I need to learn what that is.’” to make sentences on my own, then I come in and ask Robert, ‘Is this right?’” Before accepting his current position, Berry worked as a security guard at the He upholds respect and admiration for CPN East Clinic where he learned about others in everything he does, whether an in-person class happening three years that includes learning a second language ago. Wanting to be polite as a non-Tribal or serving as a CPN police officer. Partnering with CPN language aid Robert Collins (left) allows CPN Police Department Sgt. Chris Berry greater language-learning opportunities. member, he asked CPN language aid “I don’t want to make anybody upset Randy Schlachtun about attending and by my saying something wrong. I Collins encourages Berry and others role in ensuring the Potawatomi began his Potawatomi language journey. want to learn how to say it right, and to not rely on traditional Western language lasts for generations to come. “I just really enjoyed it, and I just I wouldn’t want someone thinking methods for mastering Potawatomi. I was insulting them,” Berry said. “When it gets difficult, think about picked it up,” Berry said. “It has “Don’t just use a dictionary to try our ancestors and the suffering they really came naturally to me, and I Listening and writing down new and translate. You’re trying to learn went through when they had (the was able to retain it. I’ve been trying words, phrases and conjugations versus just acquiring it. You didn’t language) ripped from them,” he said. ever since to just keep learning.” helps with retention, and using the do that when you were 3 and 4 years language with his two Chihuahuas old trying to learn English. You “We have around seven first-language The coronavirus pandemic has halted and while on the clock cements the just learned English,” he said. speakers. It’s past the time to have in-person Potawatomi language lessons into long-term memory. more second-language speakers.” courses, but Berry did not want to Collins highlighted the Potawatomi stop his momentum. CPN language “I will say things to the guys at the PD word byékkendan (come to know it) as Numerous options exist to learn aid Robert Collins stepped up to sometimes, and I’ll stop and tell them a good foundational rule for becoming Bodéwadmimwen, including one- provide weekly one-on-one sessions. what I said and translate it,” Berry proficient in Bodéwadmimwen. He said on-one virtual or in-person lessons said. “I think that’s really neat.” it stands as an example of the dedication with instructors like Collins, as “It gives me a break from police and patience required to be successful. well as online courses, smartphone work,” Berry said. “I’m not Resources apps, videos and more. Find married and live alone, so I just “Learn something every day. … Our information on available resources at wanted something productive.” Wanting to improve students’ success, language was given to our people potawatomiheritage.com/language Collins and other CPN language staff here, on this continent, Turtle Island. and join a virtual group of learners Collins sees the language lessons with began incorporating total physical That’s what gives (Potawatomi) its on Facebook at cpn.news/langfb. Berry and others across the country as response — a method of teaching oral spirituality and its strength. … It all an opportunity to hone his skills while proficiency — into their lessons with starts with one word,” Collins said. helping others grasp Bodéwadmimwen. learners of all ages. He also researches prior CPN Language Department While he does not want to deter others “That’s our relationship — the whole projects to keep classes fresh and new from success with added pressure, he said migwetch (thanks) right there,” for those he teaches one-on-one. each Tribal member has an important 8 JUNE 2021 HOWNIKAN Key to improving Native men’s mental health lies in community, culture June is Men’s Health Month. Mental Many Indigenous ceremonies and health often goes undiscussed but cultural activities center around remains an essential part of holistic togetherness. CPN tribal member Randy care and quality of life. While Native Bazhaw feels restored and rejuvenated Americans hold a higher rate of heart physically and mentally after a sweat disease and various kinds of cancer lodge or drumming with others. than non-Hispanic whites, suicide and depression rates are higher, too, “To be in that sweat praying with one particularly among young men. another, singing with one another, really letting your heart out and your According to the Centers for Disease pain out is an incredibly vulnerable Control and Prevention, suicide rates position to be in, especially in what for Indigenous men increased 71 percent our society historically has said a between 1999 and 2017. Citizen man should do and say,” he said. Potawatomi Nation Behavioral Health Tainpeah knows the power of group Counselor Ray Tainpeah believes therapy, especially for addictive community and counseling lie as the keys behaviors, and he often suggests to success when dealing with trauma. it to his clients. Tainpeah calls the “Oftentimes, particularly in the Native ideas and experiences shared in Tainpeah also encourages clients to apartment?’” he said. “And having that American community, with the suicide those groups “collective wisdom.” explore their heritage and culture to connection and knowing that whenever express their emotions, which often I burned the sage and prayed with the prevalence being high, there’s issues “Through the process of sharing their presents a struggle for male clients. tobacco, I’m connecting with these that have to deal with post-traumatic life stories, they can relate to each other stress disorder. And so with all the pain traditions that can still bring me and and can connect to each other and come “When they go and reconnect or connect that comes with that, counseling and re-center me to the fact that I know I’m up with some solutions that’ll help for the first time, there’s a sense of therapy can explore those things in a Potawatomi, and this is a part of me.” them to be a better dad, to be a belonging, a sense of pride, and especially safe way where people are open to be better husband. … It works to benefit when they begin to participate, whether Despite increased suicide rates and prev- able to talk about those things,” he said. each individual when they are able it’s the ceremonial grounds of the Eastern alence of anxiety, depression and other Access to mental health services presents to share with one another about tribes or getting involved in a drum mental health conditions among Native how they’re coping and what they’re American men, Tainpeah sees improve- a barrier when attempting to treat mental group or beginning the early stages of doing to change in order to improve ment for the future as society accepts health disorders; however, CPN Health dancing in the powwow circles,” he said. their quality of life,” he said. fathers, sons, uncles and others openly Services prioritizes it and offers various Bazhaw considers himself an outgoing discussing their problems and emotions. resources to match individual situations. Traditions as growth person. He missed connecting with Men sometimes feel apprehension others during the pandemic, particularly “I think there’s been a lot of exposure when beginning counseling but find The Substance Abuse and Mental Health opportunities to engage with and learn for men to see, both in the media and it helps after giving it a chance. Services Administration recommends about CPN traditions in person with in the tribal agencies (and) services, providers help their Indigenous clients other Tribal members. Bazhaw turned that allows them to think differently “During the intake, it’s just exploring maintain their cultural connections, to some traditional Potawatomi ways about their well-being — not just your their life situations and life experiences especially to prevent and treat substance to cleanse his space as well as connect physical well-being, but with mental and getting to know them,” Tainpeah abuse and mental disorders. with segmekwé (Mother Earth) and his health well-being. And hopefully, it said. “And when they feel like they’re identity as an Indigenous person. He allows them to be more willing to get comfortable with a counselor or a “Through reconnection to American moved to Oklahoma at the beginning of help when they need it,” he said. therapist, they’re more willing to Indian and Alaska Native communities 2020 to be closer to the Tribe, and the come back. And as they build rapport and traditional healing practices, coronavirus kept everyone at a distance. For more information about Citizen with their counselor or their therapist, an individual may reclaim the Potawatomi Nation Behavioral then they feel a little bit more safe to strengths inherent in traditional “Thankfully, I was just like, ‘Oh, well, Health, visit cpn.news/CPNBH or call talk about those sensitive issues.” teachings, practices, and beliefs why don’t I just bring out some of my 405-214-5101. Find the National Suicide and begin to walk in balance and medicines, like sage and tobacco, and Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 Togetherness as healing harmony,” the administration said. just have a little smudge right there in my or suicidepreventionlifeline.org.

Cockrell continued... “He’s told all of the interviewers for these articles, ‘He doesn’t need to write me a His most recent, If In Case You Feel The whole album, but I at least want a song Same, features Swingin’. Cockrell and or a dedication.’ So I’ve been working ATO Records released it in June 2020 after postponing it for more than a year. on a song for him,” Cockrell said. “It just felt like this album was looking Months after his appearance for a fight, you know?” he said. “And on The Tonight Show, he remains when it gets one, it’s like, ‘Well, this grateful for the opportunity. is what it’s meant to do.’ And it came “Now I’m like, OK, how can I do out in the middle of the lockdown, and for other people what Jimmy did for I couldn’t really tour. ... The chances me? Like, how can I ‘Jimmy Fallon’ of it of reaching the people that it people? What does it look like for could reach is narrowed greatly.” me to be very aware of the platform Fallon felt the alternative rock song that I have and the influence that I applied to the hard times throughout have? And how can I leverage that the pandemic as well. Before for other people’s good?” he said. Cockrell’s appearance, he talked about discovering it with the audience and “I think that’s the most amazing thing The Rolling Stone and American Cockrell believes the future played it. He said, “It’s my anthem.” about music is that you send it out Songwriter also interviewed him. remains bright and anticipates and ends up having a huge impact on releasing more music soon. Since coronavirus restrictions hit the so many more people than you could “After I did The Today Show, the song “It’s like these private dreams that we have industry hard, Cockrell noticed discour- ever go around and actually meet.” went number one in the world on iTunes, that we think that nobody can hear them,” agement throughout Nashville. He said and the album was number two. And his story and the opportunity from The “Private dreams” he said. “But I believe that God can.” it’s really been life-changing. It’s opened Tonight Show gave fellow musicians hope. The story and Cockrell’s music went up a lot of doors of things that I’ve been Find Thad Cockrell online at “It wasn’t just a win for me. It was a viral online. Following his performance really wanting to do,” Cockrell said. thisisthad.com. He is on Instagram win for a lot of people, a lot of the on The Tonight Show, he received @thad_cockrell, Facebook artist community. It felt like a win more national press. The Today Show Some of the articles also included @ThadCockrellMusic and Twitter for them, which you couldn’t want featured him in late January as part of statements from Fallon, and he @thadcockrell. Watch his performance on anything more,” Cockrell said. its Citi Music Series. People magazine, requested something from Cockrell. The Tonight Show at cpn.news/swingin. HOWNIKAN JUNE 2021 9 Oklahoma Indian Welfare Act of 1936 set path for tribal sovereignty

June 26 marks the 85th anniversary of the Oklahoma Indian Welfare Act’s passage. The short and concise law assisted in the development of tribal governments in the state and changed their relationship with the United States. Bureau of Indian Affairs Commissioner John Collier and Congress developed the law in tandem with the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934. The law shifted federal policy from a focus on assimilation and allotment to allowing Indigenous nations agency to govern themselves. Citizen Potawatomi National Cultural Heritage Center Director Dr. Kelli Mosteller said its authors felt those relationships required reexamination. “Everyone recognized that allotment didn’t work,” she said. “It did not create thriving Native communities that had assimilated easily, and it didn’t solve the ‘Indian problem’ that the federal government was always grappling with.” to say, ‘And we will start to engage the Western United States. The Indian was a lot of variation between the Amid the Great Depression and the with you as a tribal government and Territory land runs in the last two living conditions and the success of Dust Bowl, the federal government tribal community again,’ rather than decades of the 19th century allotted allotment or tribes in Oklahoma, but sought to relinquish its responsibilities consistently just trying to push that much of the tribes’ reservations into (Congress was) just sort of wholesale to Native nations across the country. including us or excluding us,” she said. After Franklin D. Roosevelt took narrative of, ‘You’re the individual. We sections as small as 40 acres. When office, he appointed Collier as BIA only want to deal with you as a U.S. Oklahoma became a state in 1907, Collier then worked with Oklahoma Sen- commissioner in 1933. Collier was a citizen. Your tribal collective, we don’t farmers and settlers had founded ator Elmer Thomas to develop the Okla- proponent of the policy changes and recognize that,’” Dr. Mosteller said. small communities around existing homa Indian Welfare Act for legislation worked with Congress to pass the IRA. Native Americans’ settlements. that complimented the area’s residents. However, Congress often excluded “This legislation allowed for the Oklahoma from the IRA and focused “Of course, if you actually look at what federal government to have the space on tribes with large reservations in was going on in Oklahoma, there Continued on page 13 10 JUNE 2021 HOWNIKAN Christian ministry plans birthday surprise for student When he turned 21 in early February, look out, and he started counting a lot She and Scott knew about the Citizen Potawatomi Nation member of the Branson water towers that he birthday surprise from Barnabas Prep Paul Ferguson received the birthday could see from up there,” and showing and the City of Branson; however, present of a lifetime. He is a student everyone their locations, she said. they decided to stay home in Sand at Barnabas Prep, a Christian ministry Springs, Oklahoma, on the big day. and collegiate program designed to “I saw the pipes and the doors, and I provide its students with disabilities real- learned that the water flows up and down “We probably could have (gone), but world skills to thrive after graduation. in them as Bob showed me,” Paul said. I knew it would be so much more special for Paul if he could just enjoy Executive director Sandy Miller and Staff also gave him merchandise it on his own with his friends, and so her administrative assistant Laura from the chamber of commerce and we watched from afar,” Julie said. Lane often plan birthday surprises for chocolate cake to top off the visit. students. Unfortunately, the pandemic A large part of Barnabas Prep’s curriculum presented additional challenges while Paul’s love of water towers and train helps students develop independence. trying to create a memorable experience. depots, often located near one another, began at 3 years old. He and his parents, “They have a lot of goals, and they “We started talking about that (Paul) Scott and Julie, took a trip to Luling, want a lot of these experiences that really likes trains and train depots and Texas, to see a water tower painted sometimes they just don’t ever get that that I’ve seen lots of pictures that his like a watermelon. Since then, Paul experience,” Miller said. “And I know parents have shared with me about him has developed his photography skills that Paul’s parents are super good Tribal member Paul Ferguson (center) about letting him have a lot of the going to various water towers throughout tours the Branson water tower for and taken pictures of more than 100. the country. And so I said, ‘He told me his birthday with Bill Smither and experiences that he would like to have.” one day his goal was to go up into the “We often will arrange parts of our Laura Lane. (Photo provided) Paul returns to Barnabas Prep for the Branson water tower,’” Miller said. trips so we can see certain water third year this fall. The next step in a staircase on the side of the tower. towers or whatever,” Scott said. his schooling includes finding a job Lane contacted staff at the City of Branson Then, they allowed Paul to explore or internship. He hopes to pursue the and arranged a tour on his birthday. the offices inside the structure itself. “Paul will get out, take pictures of That morning, they gave him a card. them,” Julie continued. “And we’ve got possibility of working for the City of “Not all water towers have offices, quite a few, a collection of pictures.” Branson at the offices in the water tower. “It said, ‘Since you have been a good office floors, but some do. Most Either way, the time he spent there student, here’s a trip to the visit to don’t. Most just have legs and Julie and Paul are descendants of celebrating remains unforgettable. the water tower,’” Paul explained things to hold water,” Paul said. the Juneau family, and Scott is a in a recent Hownikan interview. citizen of the Cherokee Nation. They “It was the best birthday Miller shared the surprise with have traveled to Shawnee and taken surprise,” Paul said. When they arrived, city risk manager Paul and described him as “very pictures of the FireLake water tower Bob Smither greeted them and provided knowledgeable” about the towers. that serves Rural Water District 3. For more information on Barnabas an extra surprise. Smither is a trumpeter Prep, visit barnabasprep.org. in his spare time and played a rendition “We were up several stories high where “It’s been a pretty interesting journey, of Happy Birthday while standing on the windows were, and he was able to this water tower hobby,” Julie said. HOWNIKAN JUNE 2021 11 Tribal election candidates 2021 Chairman candidates John “Rocky” Barrett - Keweoge (He Leads Them Home)

Our assets now exceed $900 internal dishonesty and people For the sake of our Tribe, years did she manage people and million dollars with a net worth acting only in their self-interest. demand my opponent reveal the capital. She is self-employed! of more than $400 million. The most difficult has been names of these secret “Cabinet This was accomplished through internal political squabbling Secretaries” she plans to put in There is an old cowboy sound management and by born of jealousy and envy. charge. Who are they? Where saying - “Just because you choosing experienced leadership. have they been? What have they put your boots in the oven The cooperative management Right now we have the great done for the Citizen Potawatomi don’t make them biscuits!” efforts of Vice Chairman Capps, blessing of a large group people? Her Facebook ads say, Secretary/Treasurer Trousdale of dedicated and capable We are now achieving the size “It is time for a change.” I guess and financial power to provide and myself has yielded great managers who’ve devoted the that means she thinks I am too best years of their working new opportunities for our returns and progress for our old, since it cannot mean our people. We have a great team. lives to our Nation. We also people in jobs, income, medical Tribe is not doing well. It is true Our Tribal Legislature has have a Tribal government that and elderly care, housing that I am not as young as she I hope you will consider been forward thinking and has achieved national acclaim finance, and most important – is, but I am nearly two years everything candidates said diligent in its stewardship of for innovation and success. higher education for our young. in their campaigns while our funds and the shaping younger than the President of We should manage our money giving thought to the of our laws. They have also That is what we have now. the United States and nearly ten well and avoid losing our most Citizen Potawatomi Nation’s been masterful in representing years younger than our current experienced people. We will lose performance over 40 years. their constituents and the One of my opponents U.S. Senator James Inhofe. them if they have to answer to Tribe, especially Jon Boursaw. would change all that and “Cabinet Secretaries” who know With average annual asset add an entire layer of new Our Tribe has over 2,000 nothing about the Tribe’s history growth exceeding 20 percent We have overcome many huge management, with no current employees and 14 separate of business or government. for the last 30 years, our Tribe hurdles in our past: vicious experience at our Tribe. Even businesses or governmental accomplished more than any opposition from state/local riskier is her idea of bringing departments with a $550 We have great opportunities tribe with such a small territory government costing years of back people who have been million budget. Her claim ahead of us. I would be grateful and local member population. expensive litigation, COVID19, fired, quit, or have a grudge. of “26 years of experience” is for the privilege of continuing We started with nearly nothing. a national financial crisis, Please don’t let that happen. misleading. In none of those as your Tribal Chairman.

Lisa Kraft

and even overseas, support 11-13 to ask our members help distribute car magnets together, and pray together in from donors, local and state everywhere to take time to and soon to be yard signs and a traditional way that fosters non-Indian members, and raise money for a charity of banners. Through generous fellowship and community. even non-CPN tribal citizens. their own choosing and in their donations, I now have billboards These are traditions that Mrs. own communities. We will be throughout Oklahoma Lowden has practiced her I am blessed and humbled walking dogs at Lake Arcadia and running radio ads. whole life. She welcomes all to by the generosity others have in Edmond, Oklahoma to raise her Hill where you can learn shown me. Our Facebook money for Saving Pets At Risk I am working with wise elders our ways and meet others posts and videos are reaching (SPAR) in Shawnee. SPAR to shape my platform, namely, who are on their own cultural 1000s of our members. I am takes unwanted dogs and cats Esther Lowden. Mrs. Lowden journey of self discovery. confident that a lot of you are and provides foster homes is loved and highly respected seeing my campaign efforts until they can be adopted. in our Tribe and in our local Please follow our Kraft 2021 on social media, but I need community. You may have seen campaign efforts on social media, Lisa Kraft for CPN your help sharing them and Please visit CPNchairman.com her giving prayer at both of our sign up on CPNchairman.com Chairman 2021 - Citizen continuing to like them. Please website and Instagram @ events. Esther and her family, as to receive my emails, and please Potawatomi Nation talk with your families and ask LisaKraftCPN and Facebook at well as several large Potawatomi include your mailing address is We the People! them to reach out to me with @LisaKraft2021 to learn more as families here in Oklahoma, still to receive our direct mailings. comments and questions. I also this event begins to take shape. practice our traditions and four- My run for CPN Chairman A vote for Lisa Kraft on June 26 need your mailing addresses day seasonal ceremonies on their 2021 is made possible: by a On April 12, we had a is a vote for “We the People of to receive my direct mailings. allotment lands near Sacred young campaign team of go- wonderful time in Shawnee Heart or in the southern portion the Citizen Potawatomi Nation.” getters, my son who is helping This is truly a team effort! talking with tribal members of our former reservation. me more around the house, the and again on April 30 in Thank you all so much. encouragement of our tribal We are planning a worldwide Norman. Many members are Here, you can hear singing in Change is on the way! citizens living in several states event over the weekend of June volunteering their time to Potawatomi, attend sweats, feast

Steve Castaneda - EConOush (Little Leader)

I majored in law and minored people of our area. I would like my thought but would like to why I am running, not only in history when I went to to unite our tribal members hear everyone else’s as well. for myself. I am running college. I want to make things with other tribes of Oklahoma for all the tribal members. right for our people. All I am in joint projects if possible. Get I am not a man that likes to asking for is the opportunity our members thoughts and just talk about things but Thank you to do for our people and the opinion in these matters. I have actual do for others. This is Steve Castaneda (Econ-Oush) 12 JUNE 2021 HOWNIKAN District 1 candidates Kevin Roberts - Kakingeshi (Grizzly Bear)

Jess & grandson Beauden), I have learned so much more Having passed before I was born, branches, establishing & forging and 2 daughters - Emily, and about our Potawatomi culture, I never knew my grandfather, relationships, interacting Sarah. I retired in 2018 after our community, and the Joseph Alexander Richstatter. with the people of the district a fulfilling 36 year career in progress journey our tribal He was the son of Ignatius regularly, solving challenging executive leadership with State nation continues to forge. & Theresa Effie (Bertrand) & important issues, celebrating Farm Insurance Company. Richstatter. I have enjoyed achieving established goals/ I have a sincere appreciation researching my family’s history. results, and helping our tribal I graduated with a BS in for the 7 grandfather teachings, I however, carry an empty void members & the Citizen Business Admin from Central (Love, Respect, Truth, Humility, due to not ever having had the Potawatomi Nation succeed! Methodist University, Fayette, Honesty, Wisdom, Courage). I am well prepared and ready Missouri where I was also opportunity to talk to & learned from my grandfather. I know for the opportunity to serve captain of the football team and I strive to live by these daily. as your district 1 legislator. a thrower on the track team. I he had a very hard, difficult We have so much talent, Bozho Nikanek & Mezodanek grew up in Moberly, Missouri life yet was a very talented I have offered Tobacco. I have knowledge, & spirit among (Friends & Family) and now reside in Normal, individual. I do believe my sent my prayers. I have visited Illinois. I am passionate about our tribal members. Many grand father would be proud of with many friends & family Considering the size of District the outdoors. I love to hunt, have helped me with family me. I am compelled to lead and members across our great tribal 1, I realize many of you reading fish, trap, canoe, and hike. I research, regalia crafts, cultural I honor my grandfather via my nation. All intended to help me this don’t really know me. I also enjoy wood working insights, language, and so much candidacy for the legislator role. be the very best legislator I can wanted to provide a personal utilizing salvaged trees. more. I have crafted my own be for District 1. I need, and glimpse and basis why I want moccasins, tobacco bags, pipe I consider the role of tribal very much appreciate, your vote! to be your District 1 Legislator. I am a dedicated student & pipe bowl, otter turban, cedar legislator very similar to of our Bodewadmimwen feather box, and I’m currently what I did during my 36 year Igwien (Heartfelt thank you) My wife, Diana, and I are (Potawatomi language), studying working on a beaded pipe bag. career. That being, working proud parents of 3 adult under Justin Neely & Robert I’d like to explore the world with the district members children, Son Cody (wife Collins. Through my studies, of loom beading someday. & our Legislative/Executive

Alan Melot

the time to get in touch with the district so we can all get getting medication from our ancestral lands. I intend to me to voice your concerns, to know each other better, pharmacy or getting health use every resource available to be supportive, and to share culture and language insurance through the ACA to empower you, so we can teach me what is important knowledge and do the Marketplace, just to name make these connections. to you, MIGWETCH! things that Potawatomi do. a few, I have been surprised at how many of you have Along with these goals, I Here is a recap of what you • Increased transparency in reported difficulty receiving have my own: restoration of have told me is important, government. You have told what is rightfully yours. I am Potawatomi stewardship of and what I plan to work on: me that you want to know committed to helping you Potawatomi land. There is a what is done with Tribal solve problems and getting growing movement of tribes • In-person meetings money, both where it comes you in touch with the Tribal reclaiming stewardship of their throughout the District. from and where it goes. You or Federal resources you need. ancestral lands, and I believe While we have been able have told me that you want to that we need to prioritize this. to communicate or meet know what the Tribe is doing • Connection to culture, Simply put, we need connection Bozho, I am Alan Melot and virtually, most everyone has in our name, and be better language and our history. We to the land of our ancestors. I am asking for your vote said they want to be together informed about Tribal affairs. are fundamentally a Great for Legislator of District 1. in-person. I agree, and will I will increase transparency Lakes tribe, moved against Thank you for your prayers, work with you and Tribal to the best of my ability. our will to central Oklahoma. your interest and your These past few months have headquarters to coordinate District 1 is unique, in that it feedback. You can find more been encouraging and refreshing, proper District meetings • Improved access to services. contains our homelands. We at cpndistrict1.com, email to see how many Citizen as the Covid-19 pandemic So many of you struggle have a unique opportunity me at [email protected] or Potawatomi in District 1 care subsides. Additionally, I will with access to Tribal services! to maximize revitalization find me on Facebook. so much about our Nation! To coordinate with you to have Whether it is getting a of our language and culture each of you who have taken smaller meetings throughout mortgage through our bank, in District 1, on our own Igwien (heartfelt thanks)

Drew (Jon) Boursaw

I am running for Region One’s there is so much to be proud of. running for selfish interests. I thorough communication plan legislator for one reason: to help We are a tribe that truly looks believe that, if elected, I need that allows each member of my fellow Potawatomi Tribal after its members. Whether that to place my personal beliefs Region One to use different members. I have been fortunate support is through scholarships, second to the Tribal members avenues of communication to to receive support and assistance health benefits, or housing for Region One. As a legislator, voice their concerns and ideas. from Citizen Potawatomi assistance, our members come I would represent Region As I stated earlier, I am running Nation and I want to be able first. I want to advance these One. With that in mind, it is for one reason: to help my fellow to offer that same support and benefits and help the tribe grow. issues and ideas from the Tribal assistance to the tribal members members of Region One that Potawatomi Tribal members. of Region One. As a member During this campaign, I have I will move forward with. This of Citizen Potawatomi Nation, seen many of my opponents will be accomplished with a

David Slavin - Gzhiptot (He’s Fast)

In the past few articles each may have concerning services, of the US Navy and served Kansas Community Collage. of candidates where given education, and traditions. As during the Viet Nam war era. And was the assistant track questions about their thoughts well as participating in meetings My service as well as my father, coach at KCKCC as well. I have on leadership, engaging threw zoom or in person. bother and uncles are part of worked at Burlington Northern Tribal members, what we the Veterans wall along with Santa Fe railroad for the past felt as candidates were the As stated before, in other articles. other veterans. I received my 27 years. I am a lead electrician most pressing issues. As My great, great grandmother electronics training in the navy. at BNSF as well as part of the well as information about Theresa survived the trail of I was meritoriously advanced in first responder hazmat team. our own personal growth. death as a child. And was rank and receive two letters of raised and educated by the commendation. I have a BA in It would be an honor to As a legislator we have the sisters of St. Mary’s. Theresa Communication Arts from Park be district 1 legislator. responsibility to listen to our married James Slavin a Irish Collage. I taught electronics And to represent the constituents about question they immigrant. I am a veteran and robotics at Kansas City members of district 1. HOWNIKAN JUNE 2021 13 District 4 candidates Jon E. Boursaw - Wetase Mkoh (Brave Bear)

am a retired Colonel of the Veterans Wall of Honor. Finally, District. I will use my monthly the substantial growth of new US Air Force where I served I have served as the District 4 Hownikan column to keep members over the past couple of on active duty for over 24 Legislative Representative for the the members aware of new years I am concerned about how years. Most recently I have had past eight years. I have worked developments, upcoming tribal we are going to fund the increase 17 years’ experience in senior extremely hard to make myself functions and give recognition costs in the future for benefits positions in Native American available to the CPN members of individual achievements by such as scholarships, mail order Governments. Originally, I in the District. I have kept them CPN members. I will continue pharmacy, health aids, burial served as the Executive Director apprised of items of interest, to expand my email list of fund and even the Hownikan. for the Prairie Band Potawatomi upcoming events, and benefits members in the District which We must continue to expand the Nation in Mayetta, KS for 6 such as the CARES assistance. As allows me to contact members Tribe’s economic development ½ years where I supervised 32 a result of my time in these two directly about Tribal activities, efforts while ensuring those Tribal Programs. This gave me positions I am very familiar with upcoming events, and other we have and those in the future are generating lasting firsthand knowledge on how the major activities, programs, items of interest. Finally, I plan and projects ongoing within to continue to hold regularly favorable revenue for the Tribe. tribes are supported by federal the Nation. Though out all this scheduled hours in my office funding and grants. This was I look forward to time I have regularly attended in Topeka. This allows to me Finally, I strongly solicit your followed by being asked to take serving you for another and participated in the CPN to directly assist members. support for Chairman John A. 4 years, but I need on the position of Director of Annual Family Reunions and “Rocky” Barrett for Chairman. your vote to do it. the Citizen Potawatomi Nation the Gatherings of Potawatomi. To me the most pressing issue I have worked for and with Culture Heritage Center in is the future cost of providing Chairman Barrett for the past I have had a career of positions Shawnee, OK for 2 ½ years. I plan to continue to hold the benefits and services we several years and there is no one that have prepared me to be My first assignment was to lead annual District meetings enjoy today that are funded more dedicated and qualified an effective Tribal Legislator. I the effort in creating the Tribal at various locations in the through Tribal revenue. With to lead the Nation than him.

Elexa “Amo” Dawson

I need the work. I would not The Hopi prophecy said it part of the group that all CPN So, if I am elected to serve, I be asking you for your vote this way: You can go with the families were part of, the will serve in the best interests of if I just wanted something to gold, or go with the green. group that favored private land the environmental health and take up my time. The reason ownership over communal wellness of our lands, because I am seeking this office is My ancestral family, the Ogees land sharing, which is what what we do to the earth, we because I feel that culture, and the Beaubiens, have been separated us from the Prairie do to ourselves. I will serve commerce-friendly since the language, foods and lifeways, Band in Kansas. Robert Allen in the interests of the seven beginning of contact days. Ogee and environments are worth Ogee was a wealthy inventor generations that will come after is an evolved form of Augee, me. I will work hard to restore our investment and priority. and friend of diplomats. after Michael Augee, who was a our language and culture to If elected, I will proudly do French fur trader in the 1500s, I’m proud of my family’s history. our people. I will work to build the work to represent the who came to Madeline Island I’m grateful for the experiences our community in Kansas and CPN members of Kansas. and married an Anishinabe that led to my life here, in beyond, so that we can be more Potawatomi people, like all other than just descendants, we can be Photo by Dave Leiker woman who is unnamed in Kansas, today. But I will seek nationalities, are a diverse group our records. The Ogees, since who we really are: Potawatomi. the lessons to be learned. The Bozho, jayek. Amo ndezhnekas. I of thinkers. I can’t possibly the early Chicago days, were generations before me made am a mother, a songwriter and represent every viewpoint, so industrious people. They didn’t Migweth to my elders and choices, and I’m here to learn working entertainer, a student I think it’s important that come to Kansas on the Trail relatives for your guidance and of sustainable agriculture, a I’m clear about mine. We are of Death. They were affluent from what I know, and make support. My fire has grown home agriculturalist, and a in a time, much like other enough to go to Council Bluffs. the choices that are honorable through this process, thanks community organizer. I have times in our history, that our for me, honor my ancestors, to my community. Igwien. to be transparent. This is not a family is being pulled apart They operated successful ferries and honor the generations job that I am seeking because over ideas about our future. and roadhouses. They were that will come after me.

Indian Welfare Act continued... “We have since then amended our Consti- gathering ourselves together, writing this Tribal self-determination in tution multiple times, and we have done constitution. Getting back to where we are Oklahoma continued to grow “It was adopted and supported and things like taking (out) the requirement thinking about and talking about ourselves throughout the next 80 years. to have a representative from the Bureau as a collective, as a tribe, as a unit and not embraced at various levels, depending “Once tribes had the mechanisms by which on the needs of your tribal community,” of Indian Affairs, somebody from the being consistently pushed to only think office of the Secretary of the Interior, at about ourselves as the individual,” she said. to fight for and protect their sovereignty Dr. Mosteller said. “All in all, though, our meetings. We’re taking their controls in a way that the federal government was I think for us, for CPN, we can see that they put into those original consti- The OIWA also gave power to the recognizing, it kind of knocked down it as the beginning of a new era for tutions out because we are sovereign, and Secretary of the Interior to put property some of those barriers,” Dr. Mosteller said. us when we were able to make (our) we don’t need that,” Dr. Mosteller said. into trust for tribes, ensuring Indigenous constitution and really start to redevelop peoples’ ability to regain their land in “I think it set us down a path, but our Tribal government and think about The Tribe based the constitution on perpetuity. CPN used the policy to it has been our own initiatives what it meant to govern ourselves.” a template presented by the federal its advantage and began to build its that have continued to push government following the passage of the land base after decades of allotment, our sovereignty forward.” While some tribes in Oklahoma OIWA. It created executive positions, something Mosteller called “absolutely remained apprehensive of the law including a chairman, vice-chairman and critical” in the Nation’s development. Find more Citizen Potawatomi and opted not to participate, Citizen secretary-treasurer, as well as a business Nation history at CPN’s Cultural Potawatomi Nation took on the committee and a general council. “Now, of course, in the modern day, we Heritage Center and online at responsibilities of self-delegation. The have so many other pieces of legislation potawatomiheritage.com. Follow Nation passed its first constitution as “I really think that we were the kind that have been passed and different ave- the CHC on social media: a tribal government in 1938 — only of tribal community that really could nues for land acquisition and putting land Facebook @CPNCulturalHeritage two years after the OIWA became law. benefit from this new organization of through the fee-to-trust process,” she said. and Twitter @cpnheritage. Educational curriculum for kindergarten through 12th grade By the Citizen Potawatomi Nation might not be relevant to the tribes in is already a great resource to learn to most grade levels and hope you Department of Education their area. In response to this, the CPN more about the Nation; this will be will join us to help make this project Department of Education is developing the source material for these lessons. a success. Look for more information Through consultation with local schools, a resource for teachers anywhere who about where to find the completed lesson the need for user-friendly lessons would like to incorporate Potawatomi Our first lesson will be on the Trail of in future issues of the Hownikan, or concerning the Citizen Potawatomi history into their classroom. We aim Death. We will host a session discussing contact [email protected] with Nation has become evident. Teachers to provide ready-made, vetted lesson this lesson during Virtual Family any questions. Find out more about have expressed a hesitancy to teach plans for teachers to use in their Reunion Festival and encourage all this year’s Virtual Family Reunion Native American history because they classrooms. The Citizen Potawatomi CPN teachers to join us. Register for Festival at cpn.news/virtualfest21. are afraid of getting it wrong. As a result, Nation Cultural Heritage Center’s the presentation at cpn.news/vfest23. they rely on the same old resources that encyclopedia (cpn.news/encyclopedia) We plan for this lesson to be adaptable 14 JUNE 2021 HOWNIKAN Vote Lisa Kraft For Chairman

My work in Indian Country • Over 26 years of experience in Oklahoma Indian Country • 4 consecutive terms as an elected legislator for the CPN tribe, 2008-2021 • Award-winning grant writer for Oklahoma tribes, raising over 30 Million in HUD and CTAS grants for tribal clients Scan this code with • BA in Anthropology from your phone camera for OU, and a Masters in a message from Lisa History from UCO Kraft. • Extensive fee-to-trust land conversion, including 17 tracts for the CPN

Paid for by Kraft For Chairman 2021 HOWNIKAN JUNE 2021 15 Tips for making regalia

Although Citizen Potawatomi Nation “The Creator kept pushing me. members and their families will not … And wow! It turned out really have an opportunity to gather in pretty, and I was like, ‘Creator person for Family Reunion Festival this really does have a hand in this month, there is no time like now to stuff that I do,’” she said. begin regalia preparations for when it is safe to gather once more. Whitehead Wolf often receives scraps and and Smith family descendant Reva material from friends and Wolf spoke with the Hownikan about loved ones, and she attempts her regalia-making journey and to not let anything go to waste. encourages others to make their own. “It just comes together, and As a women’s traditional dancer, Wolf I’ll realize that ‘Oh, this said, “It’s a good way to pray, gift things should go to this person,’ or or show that we’re still here making maybe someone sees it and marks with our moccasins so the Creator it really speaks to them, and knows that we’re still in existence.” it’s like ‘OK, this is why I made this,’” she said. She grew up in New Mexico and lived in numerous areas of the country as an Family Reunion Festival is adult, but a few years ago, returned to usually an opportunity for Oklahoma to care for her father. Since Wolf to sell her creations then, Wolf has been able to connect and make additional income Creating regalia can provides a connection to heritage and a platform to learn new skills. with fellow CPN members and artisans to help with expenses that have assisted with honing her craft. throughout the year. Shawls, ribbon skirts, aprons and more the importance of creating However, the coronavirus pandemic Moving back “was probably the best thing usually include some form of applique. while in a positive mindset. has negatively impacted her ability to I have ever done in my life,” she said. “I Intricate motifs require more sewing connect with others and market her had no direction. I knew my culture from skills than utilizing simple shapes, She said her work “honors my work. She welcomes those interested growing up, but I never experienced it.” especially when using a machine. family and honors my grandparents in commission pieces and more to — my ancestors. That’s why I do reach out to her at 405-287-0458. what I do because I think about them a lot when I’m sewing.” For pre-made pieces crafted by Wolf, visit Potawatomi Gifts in-person or Wolf often allows ideas to come to online at potawatomigifts.com. If her organically. She sees it as a way to interested in learning more, take fulfill Creator’s desires, and recently advantage of craft classes scheduled finished a shawl with blackbirds throughout the Virtual Family Reunion for CPN Vice-Chairman Linda Festival held June 23 through June Capps based on these principals. 29 at cpn.news/virtualfest21.

Wanting to make her own regalia to “It can get to where you can have a little dance at Family Reunion Festival, Wolf too many turns and a massive amount began sewing 10 years ago after taking an of material to manage,” she said. applique class at the Cultural Heritage Center. She hopes even amidst a global And rather than fighting the material pandemic that others will begin their while sewing, Wolf suggests keeping regalia-crafting journeys, regardless of age. it on the back side of the machine. Getting started “It doesn’t get all clumped up where you will run over everything,” she said. Making a full set of regalia takes time, dedication and patience. Most use Wonder-Under— a fusible web — to connect applique to projects. “Don’t be hard on yourself, and find Wolf said tracing on the fusible web a design that you like that does not itself can make them easier to complete. have too many corners,” Wolf said. “Some people put their Wonder- Under on the satin and then draw the design on it, but I put my design under my Wonder-Under, draw my design, then I cut my Wonder- Under and put it on,” she said. She utilizes visual inspiration from the CHC, speaking with other Tribal members and images online. Wolf also completes simple free-hand sketches like vines and other natural elements. For skirts, she cuts fabric into rectangles based on the size of the individual, sometimes creating an A-line. She suggests using patterns for blouses and men’s ribbon shirts.

Spiritual connectedness

Since wearing regalia is an extension Wonder-Under often comes in handy when of spirituality and cultural connection designing applique pieces for regalia. for Potawatomi, Wolf highlighted 16 JUNE 2021 HOWNIKAN Darling descendant places at prestigious Heard Museum Guild Indian Fair and Market Citizen Potawatomi Nation tribal a few stones that were reported to be member Ron Striegel, owner of natural and tested, and they weren’t real.” Firehawk Designs, received honorable mention with a one-of-a-kind sterling Heritage silver bracelet titled Shiprock at the Although his work involves Southwestern Heard Museum Guild Indian Fair components, he and Market’s juried competition in uses old sketches March 2021 in Phoenix, Arizona. and paintings of Striegel told the Hownikan he felt Potawatomi to grateful and privileged to contribute. incorporate Nishnabé elements. His art “It’s probably one of the biggest honors also provides an I’ve ever had, and I was totally shocked opportunity for by it — just flabbergasted,” he said. educating others on who the Citizen “As I saw the other bracelets in the Potawatomi were category in the days leading up to the and are today. market, I wondered how my work could ever presume to be included “I think it’s important among such brilliant artistry.” The Michael Gorman Gallery in Taos, New Mexico, displays to celebrate our Ron Striegel’s Center of the Galaxy bracelet, which showcases his silversmithing and jewelry-setting capabilities. (Photos provided) culture,” Striegel Beginnings said. “Growing up, my dad who passed away when I was very Before retiring, his career involved He also has a studio near Lamar, Striegel works one-on-one with a small young … he really tried to make sure business, medical sales and eventually Colorado, where he helps his wife wholesaler near Durango, Colorado, that we understood something about our education, but Striegel became Jennifer train horses and explores the to purchase most of his turquoise. culture and were able to stay in contact.” inspired to pick up silversmithing after natural beauty that the state provides. “High-quality turquoise is pretty hearing a presentation by Chairman Attending regional meetings and reading John “Rocky” Barrett in the 1990s. Some of his favorite creations expensive. It’s not cheap, and it’s actually include statement bracelets that more rare than diamonds,” he said. the Hownikan helps him stay in touch with his Potawatomi roots. He hopes “One of the things he said was because bring the outdoors to life with to visit CPN next year during Family the Potawatomi were so good at 3D images of iconic scenery. Using a combination of hydrochloric Reunion Festival to celebrate with fellow business — that’s where we’ve made our acid and tellurium helps him to Darling descendants. Until then, Striegel money — the interest in the arts kind of “It starts with an idea that I get from create varying colors of sterling silver plans to continue enjoying the Rocky dropped off, so he put out a challenge looking at nature,” Striegel said. “I decide colors and assess for authenticity. Mountains, working with horses and that if someone was interested in the which mountain I want to do, and “If it’s color shot, the acid bleaches it making one-of-a-kind jewelry. Check out arts to find a traditional Potawatomi then I either take a picture or I find a out so that the stone will actually turn Firehawk Designs at firehawkdesigns.com art … so that we could continue that picture of the mountain that is in public or on Instagram at @FirehawkDesigns. legacy of art in our Nation,” Striegel said. domain. And then I start working to white,” Striegel said. “I have bought quite transfer the mountain scene picture to Moved by the statement, Striegel began silver and cut out the mountain pattern.” researching and found the Potawatomi had a history with silverwork. He Striegel uses silver and gold layers and then set out to hone the craft. sculpts smaller details to create depth. Since gold and silver require different “I was fascinated by it,” he said. “They temperatures to become malleable, using traditionally worked with very, very multiple types of metal requires patience. heavy metal that was very thick, and they would use it to trade with the Europeans.” “I think that the lesson is, whether it’s working with horses, working The Rocky Mountains with people or working with silver, if you try to force something, it Striegel grew up near Albuquerque, just never works out,” he said. New Mexico, and spent time at his family’s cabin in Taos in his youth. He Stones enjoyed visiting the Taos Plaza and seeing the Native American vendors Dedicated to finding first-class and their fine creations. That experience turquoise, Striegel employs every continues to inspire his work today, and effort to ensure his pieces include the he established one of his two studios finest, legitimate stones available. between the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. “Most of the turquoise that’s in silver “Being in the mountains in Colorado and on the market is color shot, which and northern New Mexico, that’s hugely means there’s a plastic color that’s forced inspirational for me,” he said. “Taos into the stones and stabilized with a Mountain is sacred … and that mountain chemical or somehow treated, and only changes every time I look at it. Doing about 20 percent is natural. And of that different scenes of that mountain is really, 20 percent, only a smaller percentage as my generation would say, trippy.” is actually gem quality,” he explained. HOWNIKAN JUNE 2021 17

Erienne Ramos Charles Bryce Ferguson Wheatland, CA Sykesville, MD Family: Ogee Family: Krapp California State University Century High School MS in Public Health High School Diploma PO Edith Phillips TAWATOMI GRADUATES Logan Nathaniel Greene Shawnee, OK Mount Vernon, IL Family: Rhodd Family: McKee Cameron University Samantha Cox Will McCullar Samantha Alane Banta Frontier Community College BS in Accounting Wetumpka, AL Bella Vista, AR Okemah, OK AAS in Automotive Technology Family: Juneau Family: Ogee/Beaubien Family: Nadeau Elise Wood Cohen Gavin Richard Greene Wetumpka High School Fort Lewis College Oklahoma Baptist University Arlington, VA Mount Vernon, IL High School Diploma BS in Marketing BA in Psychology Family: Juneau Family: McKee Long Island University Kay Kakendasot Mattena Sydney Ice (Deconomaget) Patience Rose Lewis Frontier Community College Ph.D. Salt Lake City, UT Lawrence, KS (Bgeshmo Negos) AAS in Automotive Technology Family: Pierre/Navarre Family: Boursaw Mokena, IL Victoria Anne Wehrmann Austen Roselius University of Massachusetts Baker University Family: Lewis Dallas, TX Choctaw, OK MS in Archeology MA in Education North Central College Family: Payton Family: Vieux BS in Neuroscience Seton Hall University Kira Chenoa Lisle (Mskobonse) Nathan Perry Fant University of Minnesota Juris Doctor (JD) Griffith, IN San Antonio, TX Donald Adam Baker Doctor of Medicine (MD) Family: Lewis Family: Melott Lexington, SC Juris Doctor (JD) Trey Walker Biddy Purdue University Northwest Harlan High School Weatherford, OK Family: DeGraff/Laub Isaac Benjamin Lebeck High School Diploma Family: Frank Smith BS in Psychology University of South Carolina Janesville, WI BS in Exercise Science BS in Manufacturing Alexandra Beil Isaiah John Thomas Ahumada Family: Acton Engineering Technology Tampa, FL Gilroy, CA Ronald Dylan Stone Parker High School High School Diploma Jake Ryne Biddy Family: Bertrand/Clardy Family: Pappan Earlsboro, OK Weatherford, OK University of Michigan Law San Diego Christian College Family: Boursassa/Stone Bobby “Trae” Trousdale Family: Frank Smith School BS in Leadership and Justice American Public University Tecumseh, OK Juris Doctorate/Law Degree BA in Management Family: Toupin Fort Cobb-Broxton Public School Jackson Nikola Newman Oklahoma City University High School Diploma Erin Paige Bennett North Little Rock, AR Peyton Riley Andrews BA in Mass Communications Calhoun, GA Family: Bourbonnais Blanchard, OK Mio Leslie Dykstra BA in Political Science Shawnee, OK Family: Frapp North Little Rock High School Family: Vieux Family: Pambogo Southern Adventist University High School Diploma Moore High School Alexander Houston MS in Social Work High School Diploma Rossville, CA Shawnee High School Jacy Ann Durdel Woodcreek High School High School Diploma Colton Jayce Slavin East Peoria, IL Seth Lewman High School Diploma Logan Krivanek Skiatook, OK Family: Melot Sulphur Springs, AR Mustang, OK Family: Slavin East Peoria High School Family: Bourassa Mia Genevieve Huberty Family: LaReau Skiatook High School High School Diploma Gravette Arkansas High School Elk River, MN High School Diploma High School Diploma Family: Slavin University of Oklahoma Peyton Riley Andrews Big Lake High School BS in Psychology Sarah Elaine Marshall Gabriel Owen Gettings Wadman Blanchard, OK High School Diploma Jillian Uhles Whiting, KS Family: Vieux Milwaukie, OR Norman, OK Family: Navarre Moore High School Family: Pettifer Sydney Brack Family: Higbee Jackson Heights High School High School Diploma Milwaukie High School San Ramon, CA University of Oklahoma High School Diploma High School Diploma Family: Vieux Sarah Willmett-Whiteman BS in Public Relations California High School Makaila Cowdin Shawnee, OK Andrew David Fredell High School Diploma Erin Elizabeth Locke Topeka, KS Family: Willmett/Willmette Colorado Springs, CO Lafayette, IN Family: Peltier Oral Roberts University Family: Bertrand Haley Lyn Brown Family: Burnett Ottawa University BS in Business Administration University of Colorado (Dokmenojmokwe) Purdue University BS in Biology BS in Business Administration Rossville, KS Sophia K. Carney (Obejikwe) BA in Professional Writing Family: Lafromboise Caleb Williams Olympia, WA Heath Steward Missouri Western State University Mark Joseph LeClair Choctaw, OK Family: Juneau Oklahoma City, OK MAS in Sports and Winterville, GA Family: Rhodd Olympia High School Family: Trombla Fitness Management Family: LeClaire Choctaw High School High School Diploma Oklahoma State University Athens Technical College High School Diploma BS in Natural Resource Drake Alexander Barrett Kathryn Nicole McClure AAS in Physical Therapy Ecology and Management Moore, OK Angelique Williams Shawnee, KS Family: Boursaw Meredith Brittain Choctaw, OK Family: Nadeau/Vieux/Bourassa Katherine Taylor Howard Moore High School Shawnee, OK Family: Rhodd University of Kansas North Thetford, VT High School Diploma Family: Tescier Mid-American Christian BA in Geology Family: Frigon/Coulter Oklahoma State University University BA in Anthropology Vermont Technical College Lauren Veitenheimer MS in Engineering and BS in Business Admin and Ethics AAS in Veterinary Technology Erin, TN Abigail R. Hill Technology Management Family: Bruno Alexander C. Weishan Gardner, KS Chloe’ Williams (Netagemot) Freed-Hardeman University Paulina Davison San Diego, CA Family: Hartman-Smith Mansfield, TX BS in Nursing Puyallup, WA Family: Vieux/Bertrand/ Gardner-Edgerton High School Family: Ogee Family: Kennedy/Weld/Ogee Navarre/Melot High School Diploma Mansfield Timberview High Carnegie Mellon University University of Notre Dame School MS in Computer Science BA in History and Mathematics Bryce Peltier (Mnodea Wadase) High School Diploma Oklahoma City, OK Savannah LeForce Paul M. Lawless, Jr. Family: Peltier Cole Capps Potlatch, ID Boca Raton, FL Peltier Academy (Homeschool) Dale, OK Family: Darling Family: Lawless High School Diploma Family: Navarre Oklahoma State University United States Military Academy Dale High School MS in Mental Health Counseling 2nd Lieutenant Cyla Anice Reed High School Diploma Field Artillery Officer Fair Oaks Ranch, TX Koby Wyatt Jack Mitchell Family: Levier Cade Capps Shawnee, OK Luke J. Carney (Moewe Nikan) Samuel V. Champion High Dale, OK Family: Toupin/Lafromboise Olympia, WA School Family: Navarre Shawnee High School Family: Juneau High School Diploma Dale High School High School Diploma Washington State University High School Diploma Bachelors in Finance Terra Galyon Savannah Leigh Peterson Nickerson, KS Carson Capps Norman, OK Alanis Barnett Family: Coupaph Byng, OK Family: Bourassa Fullerton, CA Haskell Indian National Family: Navarre University of Oklahoma California Pacific Charter Schools University Byng High School Doctor of Pharmacy High School Diploma BS in Environmental Science High School Diploma 18 JUNE 2021 HOWNIKAN Tribal Chairman – John “Rocky” Barrett vivid memory. First, we had all $16,000,000 asset bank in a survived the “Millennium” — double-wide trailer on a gravel remember the crazy talk about parking lot to the $700,000,000+ what would happen when the bank it is today — more than year 2000 came around? People 50 times bigger. While this all over the world were predicting was happening, the Citizen all kinds of catastrophe! Even Potawatomi Community the federal government spent Development Corporation grew millions of dollars heading from $250,000 to $65,000,000 off stuff that never happened. in assets, over 250 times larger. Some people even said the We now own the largest tribally- world was going to end. So we owned bank in the United States. laughed about that after Jan. All of this was done with the 1, 2000, and went ahead with combined effort of hundreds our planning the next month. Bozho nikanek of dedicated, professional managers and supervisors as well (Hello friends), We would first gather about 15 of our best and brightest directors as the skills of an experienced omething very interesting and executives in a big room. executive team and tribal Sturned up today. As Jamie Then we would tape up large government with the foresight Moucka, my invaluable sheets of tablet paper on the walls to let us grow until we are self- executive assistant for these last and assign someone to write what sufficient, not dependent on 20 years, was going through was said. Everyone would then the federal government. But some old record boxes that offer any idea they had about most of all, we have the Citizen were stored in the headquarters an activity, business or need building, she found our for the Tribe, no matter how strategic planning session wild or big or little. Everyone worksheets from the year 2000. just let their imaginations go

Grand Casino Hotel & Resort We have been doing strategic and offered something. Vice- antenna for KGFF, a shopping planning for the Nation for over Chairman Capps would help center with a bank branch, assist- farms, built the largest ground- Potawatomi people who are 37 years, starting when I was keep the ideas from overlapping, ed living for elderly, purchase of source geothermal heating smart and insightful enough to Tribal administrator in 1984. and Rhonda Butcher would the Hardesty Grocery building, project in Oklahoma, reclaimed realize that our future success I attended a training session determine if any federal money apartments for the Grand Casino and remodeled Mission Hill depends on the seeds we plant in Albuquerque, New Mexico, could be obtained for a project. and headquarters employees, a Hospital, paved Hardesty Road now becoming a bounty for put on by Rob Burpo, then our new grocery store in McLoud, into five lanes of concrete for our future as a Nation. investment advisor for the 1948 Then we took each idea and Subway restaurant, a truck lot over a mile, built a huge 250x250 Indian Claims Commission Trust did what is called a SWOT and cottages for the Grand Ca- geothermally-cooled arena I am deeply honored to be Funds. Strategic planning was a analysis of the idea. “SWOT” sino truck stop, a gun range, a building, expanded FireLake your Tribal Chairman and be new thing then, an outgrowth stands for strengths, weaknesses, new street on Rangeline Road, Grocery into a wholesale and a part of a team of leaders like of an earlier form of long-term opportunities and threats. The a geothermal pond with fishing, retail giant — the largest no other Indian Tribe in this planning called “critical path.” group would break into groups new housing units, the Grand stand-alone grocery store in country has working for them. This all sounds pretty dull, but it of three to five and team up Casino Hotel and Resort on Oklahoma — and we completely was actually very exciting, and I to write down on a new set of I-40, a new dental department at rebuilt FireLake Golf Course. Migwetch could see it was a great way to get sheets the strengths, weaknesses, the clinic, a youth center, gym, (Thank you), opportunities and threats of each All of this was accomplished valuable input into the direction storm shelter, a new clinic near John “Rocky” Barrett idea that was hanging on the since 1989 as we began to build a tribe should grow. Best of all, the Grand Casino with a storm Keweoge wall. Then we would all talk each our financial capability to help everyone came away from the shelter, a new medical building, our people. First National Bank (He Leads Them Home) Albuquerque training sessions idea through using the analysis. redecorating the Cultural Heri- & Trust Co. grew from a little Tribal Chairman with a clearer idea of how to tage Center, new stoplights, two plan the short, medium and Now, here is the amazing part. new bridges over Squirrel Creek, long-range goals of their tribe The final result sheets from the a storm water bypass north of and how the assets and people planning session of the year Hardesty Road, new games area the tribe possessed could fit 2000 included the following for Festival, and air and heat into that plan. I returned home projects: the dance arena cover, for the roundhouse. Out of the semi-trained, and we started the “creek walk” along Squirrel entire list, we accomplished all using it in Shawnee in 1985. Creek by the dance grounds, a but two of these goals in 20 We have done it almost every softball park, the naming prayer years, more than $500,000,000 year since then, learning along circles, the eagle rescue facility, worth. That is an amazing suc- the way. Some years we have a tree nursery for transplanting, cess for one planning session! simply analyzed how we were a bowling center, a sewer and doing. We analyzed the projects water plant, an RV park and are- In addition to this, with later we had started, if we were doing na, a commercial water system, strategic planning, we built all we could do at the time. a new railroad bridge across the the elder housing projects and Canadian River, an industrial council house at Rossville, So here is how it worked in park, new golf course parking, a Kansas, developed more than the year 2000. It is such a sod and tree nursery, a new radio 400 acres of commercial sod Covered seating at dance arena HOWNIKAN JUNE 2021 19 Vice-Chairman – Linda Capps in the south to Topeka in the introductions north, you are familiar with and visiting, the beautiful landscape. I love which was truly that trip, whether I am by appreciated. The myself or with family. I enjoy Burnett’s Mound the countryside tremendously. plaques are I call it “Jon Boursaw territory” positioned just as because in about 2014, he you enter Skyline gave a Potawatomi history Park, located presentation at the Topeka southwest of Symphony Orchestra’s annual Topeka. Both event in the Flint Hills. I wish I the Chairman could have attended. Legislator and Jon Boursaw Boursaw has done a superb job were among of teaching Citizen Potawatomi the speakers history throughout Kansas. at the ceremony. Bozho He is like the Energizer Bunny (Hello), when it comes to accepting There is more appointments for Tribal history information or those of you who have presentations within Kansas. about Burnett’s Fhad the pleasure to travel Mound in an through the Flint Hills in Both Chairman Barrett article within Kansas, roughly from Wichita and I were able to attend this edition Pictured, from left, Legislator Jon Boursaw, Peggy Boursaw, Joe Wulfkuhle, of the Hownikan. Joan Atkins, Chairman John “Rocky” Barrett and Lyman Boursaw. Pictured with the dedication at Burnett’s paid for the plaques designed this article are some of the Tribal Mound on April 29, 2021. by Jon Boursaw and erected members that were in attendance. at the exhibit in southwest What a delightful ceremony Topeka. This has made the As usual, I appreciate it was with approximately 70 Tribal members in the area the opportunity to be in attendance. To my surprise, very proud of the exhibit. your vice-chairman. our own Tribal member, Tim Hrenchir of the Topeka Capital- Prior to the dedication, there Migwetch Journal, reported on the event. was a reception in Topeka that (Thank you), He wrote an excellent article Jon Boursaw planned. About 25 for the occasion, which can people attended the reception. Linda Capps be found at cpn.news/tpjbm. A local catering service provided Segenakwe Several CPN tribal members the refreshments, including (Black Bird Woman) attended, along with officials macaroon mounds for Burnett’s Vice-Chairman of Shawnee County, the City Mound and chocolate hats for 405-275-3121 work of Topeka, Shawnee County Burnett’s hat, among other 405-650-1238 cell Pictured, from left, Jerry Meens, Jane Meens, Chairman Parks and Recreation and even delicious pastries. The reception [email protected] John “Rocky” Barrett, Judy Boyles and Leonard Boyles. the State of Kansas. The Nation was an excellent time for 20 JUNE 2021 HOWNIKAN District 2 – Eva Marie Carney process are posted on FEMA’s of the Peabody Essex Museum in inform teaching and learning Funeral Assistance FAQ page: Salem, Massachusetts. You can about Native America. cpn.news/FEMAfuneral. take a 360° online tour of this Please take note of the fraud artist’s fascinating work, installed NK360° is also a portal for alert posted to the main page: as the PEM exhibit Where the taking virtual, interactive “We have received reports of Questions Live, at cpn.news/bruce. field trips over Zoom, led by scammers reaching out to museum educators. The field people offering to register them I will be traveling again soon, trips are free, but advance for funeral assistance. FEMA has this time to Shawnee to attend registration is required. If you not sent any such notifications our annual Tribal General are an educator, you’ll want to and we do not contact people Council meeting on Saturday, check them out — a minimum before they register for June 26, and take the oath of of 10 students is required assistance.” I hope readers will office to continue in service to register for one of these share all this information widely as District 2’s legislator. I also interactive programs, which so all who are impacted can will participate in a legislative focus on Indigenous histories, benefit and no one is scammed. meeting on Monday, June cultures and contemporary Bozho nikanek 28. I am nervous about the lives centered around specific (Hello friends)! Readjusting to Shawnee trip, as it will require topics. Trips are geared by age, me to make connections in a ranging from kindergarten FEMA assistance “normal” life; upcoming travel to Shawnee couple of different airports, but through college. You can learn lease accept my deep I am excited at the prospect of more at cpn.news/NK360VFT. In mid-April, my husband visiting with Tribal members Psympathy if you have lost Please reach out a family member or friend to Alan and I took our first plane and other folks in town. If you’d trip together since 2019. We like to get together over that COVID-19. I want to be sure I offer you my best wishes traveled to the Boston area to weekend, please send me a note! the position of Chairman is that you know that, if you on the ballot are critical — and continued prayers for have incurred COVID-related visit with our daughter, who your and your family’s health we hadn’t seen since December I am hopeful that by later please take the time to vote. funeral expenses after Jan. 20, this fall, I’ll be able to resume and security as we continue 2020, FEMA is providing 2019. It was fantastic to see her NK360°; virtual field trips to wrestle with the challenges and to return to some sense of my practice of hosting financial assistance. The meetings across District 2. posed by these unfathomable application process opened normalcy. I was grateful that If you haven’t visited the times. Please reach out to me April 12. One must apply by the flight was non-stop and that Please vote National Museum of the if I can be helpful. It’s my phone — there is no online everyone we encountered and American Indian’s Native privilege to represent you. application. The numbers to all businesses we visited were Since I’ll be in Shawnee during Knowledge 360° site call are 844-684-6333 | TTY: adhering to COVID-19 safety in-person voting on Saturday, (cpn.news/NK360), you are Eva Marie Carney 800-462-7585, Monday to protocols. I’m sharing a photo I June 26, I’ll bring my absentee in for a treat. NK360° is Ojindiskwe (Blue Bird Woman) Friday between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. took during the trip — it’s of a ballot with me, hand it in and resource-rich — it provides Representative, District 2 EST. A FEMA representative captivating mural (May the joy of vote in person. Please don’t educational materials, virtual 5877 Washington Boulevard will help you complete the sunlight & the patience of herons forget to complete your voting student programs and teacher PO Box 5591 application over the phone. & the resilience of the human ballot and return it in time for training that incorporate Native Arlington, VA 22205 heart & the transformation of your vote to be counted. All narratives, more comprehensive 866-961-6988 toll-free Answers to frequently asked the moon be yours today, by Wes CPN elections are important, histories and accurate [email protected] questions about the application Sam Bruce) on an outside wall but those held in years when information to enlighten and evamariecarney.com

District 3 – Bob Whistler or were private pets that have ants, they have been known to Argyle - Denton/ be able to assist you with a escaped that may present a swarm, and you may be covered Dallas-Ft. Worth area question about any service serious threat. The dangers vary with them and receive many Rozanne Montrelli or benefit that CPN offers. by state with some having a bites. This can cause serious 562-507-5278 history of dog bites being the medical issues. So, look around [email protected] In closing, I am honored greatest threat. Before I get to your yard, and if you see a that you have elected me to Texas, let me mention the state mound of soil or on the side When we get back to being represent you for District 3. of a wall, it is time to get rid able to hold our face-to-face I lived in before Texas, which Nagech of it. You can start by spraying district meetings, I will ask was Virginia. I was cutting the (Later), lawn one spring and accidently the nest with a solution of basic these two individuals if there are any topics that members in ran over an underground nest of liquid dish soap. If that doesn’t Bob Whistler their area would like to discuss. wasps. The sting I received was get rid of them, you may want Bmashi (He Soars) If you live in a different area severe, and I had to get medical to call a pest control firm. Representative, District 3 and want to put together a attention. The doctor then 112 Bedford Road, Suite 116 District groups group there, please let me know, prescribed a drug that I carried Bedford, TX 76022 and I will place your contact around in a syringe to use if I 817-282-0868 office Bozho Ginwa In the April Hownikan, I wrote information in the Hownikan. (Hello everyone), was stung again. I bring this up about having received requests 817-229-6271 cell because I was surprised to learn from several members to setup Website 817-545-1507 home Most dangerous that in Texas, our greatest threat small groups in District 3. The [email protected] animal in Texas from nature is fire ants. They purpose is to help generate In the last several issues of the [email protected] are subterranean, and they have more interest in our Nation. So Hownikan, I mentioned that I any of us don’t really stop nests of soil that may be built on far, we have two individuals now have a website, which is Mto think about what is the outside wall of your house. willing to be the coordinator cpndistrict3.com. You may use the most dangerous threat from If not destroyed, the dome of in their immediate area. it to reach me directly as well nature where we live. I was just their nest can get up to six to as to provide me your email reading about this and found it ten inches high. A sting from Leander area address. As my site says, my interesting that in Oklahoma, one of these is probably not of Joshua Walters mission is to be your voice to there are a number of tigers any great consequence. However, 713-823-2644 the Nation. So, please contact that have escaped from zoos if you irritate a colony of fire [email protected] me if you believe that I may HOWNIKAN JUNE 2021 21 District 4 – Jon Boursaw Jennie Chinn, director of the Carissa: “Just thought I would have survived since the removal. for eight consecutive semesters. Kansas State Historical Society, share a picture of Carissa with My presentation lasted about She was a member of the student and Vicky Henley, executive her cap and gown and her CPN 35 minutes, and then there was government association as the director of the Kansas Historical stole. Carissa is graduating from over an hour of questions and director of academic affairs Foundation. Thursday’s ceremony Emporia State University on discussion, and I was the only and was an academic tutor for came more than a year after the May 14, 2021 with her Masters one answering the questions. I the Haskell Student Success exhibit was erected in March in Instructional Design and understand there were over 30 Center. Autumn plans on 2020 through a partnership Technology. She completed individuals, including three moving to Shawnee, Oklahoma, between Shawnee County Parks her Master’s in one year while college professors, participating to work as a records manager and Recreation and the Citizen working a 40 hour a week in the meeting. One woman and archivist for the Nation. Potawatomi Nation. Dedication job. In May 2020, Carissa asked if they could donate to our ceremonies were postponed graduated from ESU with scholarship fund. I suggested Honored to serve you until this month because of a double degree in Business that they consider establishing a It is an honor to serve you as the coronavirus pandemic. Management, Marketing, and a local scholarship for an enrolled your district representative. I Minor in Entrepreneurship. She Native American youth of any appreciate hearing from CPN Dedication of the buffalo earned these degrees in 4 years.” tribe. There was strong support Bozho members in Kansas, whether sculpture in Rossville for that idea from the rest of (Hello), in the form of a letter, email, I had the pleasure a few years the group. Eel River is about 30 The following morning ago to give Carissa her Indian phone call or in the office. Dedication ceremony for Chairman Barrett, Vice- miles east of Rochester, home Please let me know how I can name, which is Wiskepto of the Fulton County Museum, the Citizen Potawatomi Chairman Capps and I (Strong Runner). She is the be of assistance to you. If you Nation history exhibit on conducted a brief dedication which coordinates the Trail are not receiving emails from daughter of David and Janet of Death caravan from Twin Burnett’s Mound in Topeka ceremony to acknowledge McAfee and a descendant of me, it is because I do not have the placement of a buffalo Lakes, Indiana, to Sugar Creek your current email address or n April 29, I was joined by the Bourassa/Ogee families. in Lynn County, Kansas. sculpture mounted on a Congratulations, Carissa. what I have is incorrect. All Chairman Barrett and Vice- limestone base near the flagpole you need to do is send me O July Elders Chairman Capps to participate in in the parking lot of the CPN your email address, and I will Google call presentation Potluck in Rossville this ceremony. About 70 people Community Center in Rossville. of my Citizen Potawatomi enter you into my District 4 attended Thursday’s gathering A plaque has been placed on Nation history The July Elders Potluck will information file. My contact at the exhibit, which is located the stone base that reads: be held on Friday, July 9, at information is listed below. near the entrance to Skyline Park Several weeks ago, I was noon in the CPN Community on Burnett’s Mound. Skies were A Diminished Presence Migwetch contacted by an individual Center in Rossville. Tracy mostly clear and temperatures Artist: Roberet Heintzelman (Thank you), associated with a church in and Brenda have asked that in the upper 70s as those present Donation date: June 11, 2020 Indiana asking if I would be you RSVP if you plan on heard from speakers, including Dedication date: April 30, 2021 Jon Boursaw, interested in giving my CPN attending. Their number is Chairman Barrett, Shawnee history presentation via Google Wetase Mkoh (Brave Bear) This piece is intended to be a 785-584-6171. You are asked County Commissioner Kevin Call, which is similar to Zoom. Representative, District 4 statement about the elimina- to bring a side dish or desert. Cook, County Parks and At first, I wasn’t sure about 2007 SW Gage Blvd. tion of the vast herds of Plains Recreation Director Tim Laurent doing it as I have never given Topeka, KS 66604 bison to near non-existence. CPN member selected as and Allyson Shove, vice-president my presentation by this method, 785-861-7272 office An estimated 30 million were American Indian College 785-608-1982 cell of marketing for Azura Credit but I thought, “Why not?” and killed for a number of reasons, Fund Student of the Year [email protected] Union, which has teamed up agreed to do it. It was to a not the least of which was the Office hours: with the county on efforts to Church of the Brethren group Haskell Indian Nation University importance of the animal to 9-11 a.m. Tuesdays improve Skyline Park, and myself. in Eel River, Indiana, which recently announced that CPN the Native Americans. A once 3-5 p.m. Thursdays The Potawatomi history exhibit is apparently had recently learned member Autumn Wano was huge presence on the land was Other times: please call “just one more compelling reason that their original church was selected the American Indian diminished almost completely. to visit Skyline Park,” Laurent built in the fall 1838 on what College Fund Student of the said. The other two Shawnee Carissa McAfee, CPN had been Potawatomi land Year. She grew up in Lansing, County Commissioners, Aaron member, receives her shortly after the Tribe’s forced Kansas, and graduated from Mays and Bill Riphahn, and Master’s degree removal. They were interested Haskell in May with her Topeka City Manager Brent in what the Potawatomi Bachelor of Science in business Trout were also among those I received the following from encountered during their administration. Autumn had present. Also in attendance was Janet McAfee, mother of removal to Kansas and how they made the President’s Honor Roll

The Hownikan is published by the Citizen Potawatomi Nation and is Hownikan mailed free to enrolled Tribal members. Subscriptions for nonmembers 1601 S. Gordon Cooper Drive, Shawnee, Oklahoma are $10 a year in the United States and $12 in foreign countries. The Hownikan is a member of the Native American Journalists Association. CPN Executive Committee Reprint permission is granted with publication credit to the Hownikan. Tribal Chairman: John “Rocky” Barrett Vice-Chairman: Linda Capps Editorials/letters are subject to editing and must contain a traceable address. Secretary/Treasurer: D. Wayne Trousdale All correspondence should be directed to Hownikan, Editorial staff 1601 S. Gordon Cooper Drive, Shawnee, OK 74801 Editor: Jennifer Bell Page/graphic designer: Trey DeLonais Questions: [email protected] or 800-880-9880 Editor: John VanPool Graphic designer: Emily Guleserian Writer: Mary Belle Zook Address changes should be sent to Tribal Rolls, Writer: Paige Willett Photographer: Garett Fisbeck Writer: Lenzy Krehbiel-Burton Submissions coordinator: Mindee Duffell 1601 S. Gordon Cooper Drive, Shawnee, OK 74801 22 JUNE 2021 HOWNIKAN District 5 – Gene Lambert Bozho next year we will be back to Since it is June 2021, we Always thinking of you. (Hello), our in-person meetings. all know what that means. It is time to vote. Be sure Eunice Imogene Lambert ope everyone is doing It will be wonderful to get your voice is heard by Butterfly Woman Hwell, and I am happy to visit with everyone and being counted. Representative, District 5 to announce that things hear all the family stories 270 E Hunt Highway, Ste 229 will be opening up soon. that have taken place Should you have questions San Tan Valley, AZ 85143 The requirements for the in the meantime. regarding an in-person vote, 480-228-6569 coronavirus have lessened, but feel free to contact your [email protected] we still want you to do all We normally have our representative to get help. you know to do to stay safe. legislative meetings via Zoom just because of the In the meantime, please Virtual district meetings distance between legislators take care of yourselves are taking place. Perhaps and Tribal members. and stay in touch.

District 7 – Mark Johnson ne of the things that is it. And the adage, “Those who trend continues in the downward additional information you may Omost fundamental to life live in glass houses shouldn’t direction, Rande and I will again need to access available Tribal in America is to have your voice throw stones.” I strongly believe host the fall festival in person benefits. Please also take the heard through your power of we need to stay the course we this year, possibly in late October time to give me a call or send the vote; I hope that you will have been on for many years, or early November. We also me an email with your contact use that right with our Tribal think long and hard about how enjoyed a language lesson from information so that I can keep elections this month. Too often far we have come as a Tribe Justin Neely and a tour of the you informed of the happenings over the last few years, national and the recognition we have new functionality of the Cultural within the Nation and district. politics has digressed into the received for our stable, well-run Heritage Center website with Dr. game of “let me see what kind government, and then vote. Kelli Mosteller. Please visit them Migwetch of a story I can make you at potawatomiheritage.com. (Thank you), believe,” and “if I tell you there On April 24, Rande Payne and I is a problem long enough and hosted a District 6 and 7 Zoom Once again, I would like to say Mark Johnson, loud enough maybe you will meeting with Chairman Barrett what an honor it is to serve you Wisk Mtek (Strong as a Tree) believe it.” My father taught and Vice-Chairman Capps. as your District 7 representative. Representative, District 7 me a life lesson long ago; none Thank you to all of you who As always, give me a call, and 1565 Shaw Ave., Suite 202 of us are perfect, and you only joined us; we all look forward I will be happy to work with Clovis, CA 93611 Bozho nikanek have one soul, and you are to having in-person meetings you on any questions you 559-351-0078 cell (Hello friends), the only one who should own again, and I believe that if the may have or provide you with [email protected]

District 8 – Dave Carney thing remains the same — it’s seems to be the opening salvo posed legislation. The very simple persons. I was in support of this election time! Like many of you, in modern political races. I fact is that the vast majority of change; however, based on my I received a second absentee promised myself a long time ago resolutions are approving grant generally libertarian/live-and- ballot request that made me a not to engage in political battles proposals to obtain federal funds let-live approach to social issues, bit confused, but the important on Facebook because they are for the Tribe, requiring little there were not enough votes to thing is that you received one impossible to win, exhausting or no financial match from the alter the marriage ordinance or put your hands on a request and generally nasty. If you weigh Nation’s resources; resolutions and make it more in-line with through email or the Hownikan in, you’re damned, and if you to put land into trust with the the law of the land. If that is and turned it in. It’s important don’t weigh in, the falsehoods Federal government to secure a significant issue to you, I’d that you exercise your vote — rule the day. There are some our future land base; or to en- advise you to inquire from your especially this year with the folks in that forum that seem roll new members meeting the legislator how they voted. Chairmanship on the line. to have unlimited time and a prescribed criteria on to the desire to settle old grudges. So Tribal rolls. I will gladly stand As always, it is my honor to There’s a lot of information far, I have been able to have the behind all of those konege votes. serve as your legislator. out there, and a lot of self-control to not comment. misinformation. Unfortunately One heavily debated topic in Dave Carney Bohzo nikan with the dominance of social There’s been internet chatter re- which there were many “no” Kagasghi (Raven) (Hello friend), media, the civility factor is way garding the legislative meetings votes (or cho in Potawatomi) Representative, District 8 down. The last resort of an in- that have been online for several was the attempt to change the 520 Lilly Road, Building 1 his June feels different than person discussion (being nasty, years that categorize the legis- Tribal marriage ordinance form Olympia, WA 98506 Tmany in our Potawatomi using inuendo, twisting facts lature as only voting “yes” (or a union between a man and 360-259-4027 past; however, one important and using foul language, etc.) konege in Potawatomi) for pro- a woman to a union of two [email protected]

District 9 – Paul Wesselhöft e have relatively good nation, which treated them as Do you recognize your Patrick A. Tierney Whistorical information second-class citizens. Actually, relative? I recognize mine. Elijah Tyner about our WWII Citizen 40 percent of Native Americans Nicholas Vieux Potawatomi Nation veterans, were not citizens until 1924, Lee Burnett Asa Wall but information is sparse about though more than 12,000 Emmett Bowles William Wano our WWI CPN veterans. served in the U.S. Army during Clarency Bradley WWI. Native Americans have Joseph Bruno Migwetch World War I was the first always served in wars in higher John Cryer (Thank you), global war originating in percentages than others. Alex Curley Preston Europe, which lasted from Goulette George Haas, Jr. Paul Wesselhöft July 28, 1914, until Nov. 11, If you have lived the 73 years Louis Hale Naganit (Leader) 1918. It was “The Great War that I have, you would have John A. Hardin Representative, District 9 to end all wars.” Eight and a experienced the remnant of Joe Kime [email protected] half million combatants were WWI veterans die away as Edward LeMotte [email protected] killed and 13 million civilians. have virtually all of our WWII Charles Lybarger veterans. These patriots must George Lybarger Out of the 4.7 million never be forgotten. They saved Thomas Lybarger Bozho nikan Americans that served, more the world for peace — for Benjamin Megah (Hello friend), than 116,500 were killed and liberty. Therefore, we honor Edward S. Muller 320,000 were sick and/or these Oklahoma Potawatomi Stephen W. Negahnquet, Jr. World War I and Oklahoma wounded. Many patriotic Native men who fought for their James O’Marra Potawatomi veterans American soldiers served the nation in World War I. John B. Pambego HOWNIKAN JUNE 2021 23 District 10 – David Barrett owes China, one of the $2.9 trillion. Then the Office The Federal Reserve purchased “We the people” not “we the largest foreign owners. What of Personnel Management Treasuries from 2011 with only government” need to evaluate people don’t know is that Retirement at $955.1 billion; $1.6 trillion to March 23, 2020, how the government is spending the Social Security Trust Military Retirement Fund at of $7 trillion. Did the Fed our money and hold them Fund, also known as your $1.01 trillion; and Medicare monetize the debt by buying accountable. We can’t allow all retirement money, owes at $304.4 billion, with the treasuries from its member this spending to land on our most of the national debt. remainder of approximately banks using credit that it created grandchildren. Even if they say $723 billion in cash on hand, out of thin air? It had the same the money is “paid for,” it only The national debt was totaling around $7 trillion. effect as the printing of money. means it will eventually come $28.1 trillion as of April from the productive private 2021 and is broken down Now we are going to look at Many people believe that much sector where those people will as 22 percent ($6 trillion) the $21 trillion of public debt, of the U.S. debt is owed by pass on to the non-productive belonging to intragovernmental with a total of $7.07 trillion of foreign countries like China government spending. holdings and 78 percent foreign debt, including $1.28 and Japan. The truth is most ($22 trillion) belonging to trillion owned by Japan and of it is owed due to Social It goes without saying, thank debt held by the public. $1.06 trillion China-owned Security and pension funds. This you for allowing me to represent Bozho of the U.S. debt. Federal means U.S. citizens, through you and our great Nation. (Hello), Why would the government owe Reserve and government their retirement money, own money to itself? Some agencies, most of the national debt. Migwetch want to share some like the Social Security Trust has $10.8 trillion; mutual (Thank you), funds has $3.5 trillion; state information that I gathered Fund, take in more revenue So when we are considering all I and local governments David Barrett from an article on the national from taxes than they need. the proposed spending from the (pension funds) has $1.09 Mnedobe (Sits with Spirit) debt written by Kimberly Rather than sticking this cash government in the future, there trillion; and other holders — Representative, District 10 Amadeo for the website under a giant mattress, these has to be a cap on spending. thebalance.com in 2021. agencies invest in the U.S. private pensions, insurance 1601 S. Gordon Cooper Dr. Treasury bonds. This transfers companies, U.S. saving bonds, If you add the debt held by Social Shawnee, OK 74801 The U.S. debt reached a new the agencies’ excess revenue individuals, brokers, banks, Security and all the retirement 405-275-3121 high of $28.1 trillion as of March to the general fund, where and corporate and non- and pension funds, almost half [email protected] 31, 2021. The U.S. Treasury it is spent. Then when these corporate businesses — have of the U.S. Treasury debt is held manages the U.S. debt through agencies needs the funds, they the remainder of $3.5 trillion. in trust for your retirement. If its Bureau of the Public Debt. will redeem the Treasury notes. the United States defaults on its The debt falls into two categories: Thus, the government will have The reason the Federal Reserve debt, foreign investors would be intragovernmental holdings to either raise taxes or issue owns treasuries is because angry, but current and future and debt held by the public, more debt to raise the cash. of the quantitative easing retirees would be hurt the most. according to thebalance.com. that stimulated the economy Which agencies own the most by keeping interest rates The Treasury breakdown on Most headlines focus on Treasury bonds? Well, Social low and infusing liquidity who holds how much debt is in how much the United States Security by a long shot at into the capital markets. the monthly Treasury Bulletin. District 11 – Andrew Walters • “She lies so well a man would way. To impugn their honesty, to pharmaceuticals. The catch there off” by the way the vote goes. be a fool not to believe her.” insult their honor, to imply that is that you have to come here. But you know, there’s a bunch of even one of them would “cover I guess on that note, I’m a little us who never vote. Never see the The one that has struck me up” a criminal act… well… biased. I moved from Houston need to. Things seem to be going lately is “The truth ain’t as much is “uglier than a new sheared to Shawnee to participate and OK, or we just don’t care and fun.” It means that gossip and sheep.” Linda Capps would be receive services from the Tribe. let our vote not count. When such talk is more entertaining what you’d have if you took We have members that come the CARES Act funds were than hard facts. Kind of makes kindness, goodness, compassion, into Oklahoma and visit at available, we had many hundred for better clothesline talk. intelligence, honesty, integrity, other clinics in the state that applications for citizenship come and grace, mixed it all up good, reciprocate with our Tribe. in. Some appear to have been A lot of what’s going on right and put it in a bottle. She would from folks who, until a check now before this Tribal election not stand for the occurrences It’s easy to sit in your chair, had their name on it, hadn’t seen is an example. Seems like folks such accusations imply. Nor wave your arm, say something reason to apply. Participation can’t always get their facts would any of the legislators profound, act like you could is what makes us a Tribe, not straight, but like the saying or the Chairman himself. do it and then openly wonder the amount of money we think goes, “It ain’t as much fun.” why someone else hasn’t. we can get. Honestly, and only Allegations and hurtful words As far as money allocations, Running this ranch is a little you can judge that, when’s the have been made by some that Bozho where’s that supposed to come harder than that. It takes last time you participated in the Tribe is filled with thieves, (Hello), from? All the businesses the commitment, intelligence and a our Tribe? When is that last onery men, embezzlers, card Tribe operates are profitable and business eye. It’s truly awesome time you attended a regional f you haven’t already guessed, sharks and Charlatans. That the self-supporting. It’s the programs (a greatly overused phrase) to meeting? When’s the last time II kind of like old sayings. legislators are all “feathering that provide services to our see it all come together. Until you came to Shawnee? When’s The tradition we have in the their nests” (good old saying folks that eat up that profit. you can see actually how it the last time you voted? Now, I Tribe that elders have much to but not true). Some openly say works, it’s incomprehensible. know that there’s some folks out give in the way of experience that Tribal members should Medical clinics spread outside Add to that the personalities, there that’ll take that comment has always struck me as the all be getting a ton of “Indian the reservation? The IHS funds and Lord we have some, and and run with it. Cuss me up right way. Most of these old money” from the Tribe because programs for each tribe. Our the nuances of dealing in the one side and down the other, sayings carry a lot of truth in it’s owed them. Why? “Because Tribal clinics are thus funded. Native American community, say I’m this and that, but the small understandable packets. the Tribe is floatin’ in money.” Theoretically, you should be and you’ll find that heading truth is, it’s only a question. A Some are silly, but even those And a lot more. Crazy stuff able to go to any IHS-funded up the Tribe is only for those question only you can answer. touch on meaningful things. from folks that for the most part clinic and receive care, but it uniquely suited to the endeavor. Not pointing fingers. Truth know “about as much as a hog doesn’t always work out that is “I’ve got my own chickens • “Leave the gate like knows about a bathing suit.” way. When my mother was Before I “climb down from my to feed.” Y’all take care. you found it.” dying, I tried to get the Tigua soap box,” let me say one more Truth is, the Tribe is well-run, Indian Clinic to service her thing. I’d mentioned it before Migwetch • “She didn’t have nothin’ efficiently operated and managed health needs only to be told in this article but didn’t expand, (Thank you), under her hat but hair.” by some of the finest folks I’ve they did not support other expound or pontificate on it. have had the honor to work tribes’ needs. Our clinics do. We That concerns my comment Andrew Walters • “It was so dry the bushes with. Ain’t a crooked one among support tribal members of other about participating. Only a [email protected] followed the dogs around.” them. They all take pride in their recognized tribes throughout small fraction of folks vote in [email protected] • “He’s richer than jobs and their heritage. From the the area. We also support our the elections. I’d say way under possum gravy.” Chairman on down, all the staff own members. Here you can 10 percent. Most of the time, takes meticulous care to service get health care, dental, vision you can tell when there’s a “bone • “All hat and no herd.” the Tribal members in a caring and other medical needs such as to pick” and someone is “ticked

Legislators are not able to retrieve your contact information from Tribal Rolls Please contact your legislator and update your contact details so that you can receive important information. 24 JUNE 2021 WALKING ON Mary E. (Cody) Cox Donations may be made in her Anthony Schencks, Brian and studied divided selves. She spoke with love, respect and Vieux Family name to the St. Joseph’s Catholic Schencks, Joshua Schencks moved to Virginia Beach, where admiration of their parents, Asa E. Church Building Fund, P.O. and Talyiah Schencks; great- her husband worked for the Wall and Inez C. Wall. That bond Box 586 Hominy, OK, 74035. grandchildren, Hailey Schencks, Christian Broadcasting Network. and those stories will remind Curtis Schencks, Sawyer A survivor of ovarian cancer and family of abundant blessings. Schencks and Sage Schencks; endometriosis, Jesselyn gave birth Melba Schencks Survivors also include grandchil- Willmette Family sisters, Judith Washam, Nora to a son, Mitchel David Morrison, McManus and Lora McHenry; in Virginia Beach in 1986, a dren in Georgia, William (Alyssa), and one brother, Jon Sinor. miracle. Her husband passed in Kate “Katesby” (Zach) and Jake 1995, preceding Jesselyn in death. (Katie); great-grandchildren, Ar- Preceded in death by her She is survived by her son Mitchel cher, Sayler, Everly and Abram; loving husband, Frazure David (34), daughter-in-love Tina sister-in-law, Sylvia (Tom); nu- Schencks; mother, Alta Sinor; Maria (34), and granddaughter merous people who considered father, George Sinor; and her Maria Joy (22 months). Her her their “mom”; nieces and sister, Georgia “Lucy” Link. sister Laura Tinsley of Fairhope, nephews, who have wonderful Alabama, also survives her. A stories of their dear aunt; cous- polymathic bibliophile, Jesselyn ins as well as other relatives and Jesselyn Jo Morrison friends. (You know who you are!) Melott Family is honored as a kaleidoscope of self-expression, wielder of Everyone who knew Rachel Mary E. (Cody) Cox was born authentic wit, and person of knew she loved unconditionally, on Dec. 18, 1934, in Hominy, profound spiritual perception accepted and encouraged Oklahoma, to Andrew (A.J.) for the loving Light of Christ. and Evelyn (Bruno) Cody and them, and that there would be passed away at St. John’s Hospital a good laugh! She was loved in Tulsa, Oklahoma, on March Rachel McPherson greatly, and she greatly loved! 4, 2021, at the age of 86. Johnson Family The family thanks all who loved Melba Lee Schencks (Sinor) was and enjoyed her. She will be She was a lifelong member of born on March 9, 1934, in Pryor, missed but lovingly recalled. St. Joseph’s Catholic Church Oklahoma, to George and Alta Those wishing to contribute in in Hominy after having been Sinor (Cargill) of Pryor. After her honor can contribute to their baptized in January 1935. an extended illness, she accept the Lord’s invitation to join her favorite Native project or to the Mary began her education heavenly family on Jan. 1, 2021. Sandi McPherson Memorial at Hominy Public Schools She grew up in Pryor and gradu- Scholarship. (Mail to Radford until transferring to Chilocco ated from Pryor High School in University Foundation, P.O. Box Indian School near Newkirk, 1952. She then attended College 6893, Radford, VA 24142) Oklahoma. She returned to at Northeastern State University, Jesselyn Jo Morrison (Flynn), Hominy High School for her where she received a master’s de- age 73, passed at her home senior year, graduating in 1953. gree in education. She was part of in Algonquin, Illinois, on Barbara Ella Hamman the Delta Kappa Gamma Society Resurrection Sunday, April Lewis Family On Feb. 9, 1954, she was united while attending NSU and after. 3, 2021, due to an accident. in marriage to T. H. Cox in She went on to teach in several Jesselyn was born on Aug. 24, Fairfax, Oklahoma, and they states, holding teaching certificates 1947, at Oklahoma City General made their home west of Hominy. in Kansas, Maine and Oklahoma. Hospital to Wilmot Paul Flynn It is with great sorrow to She ended her career in Oklahoma of Oklahoma City and Mary Lou Two daughters were born to this announce the walking on of after 24 years of teaching at Chou- Flynn (Melott) of Drumright, union — Maria Sue Cox Biard Rachel H. Wall McPherson teau Elementary Public Schools. Oklahoma. Through her mother’s and Cynthia Cox Whitton. In (KnoKwe) on Feb. 12, 2021, at 94 Even after retirement, she went on maiden name, Melott, she was years old — sorrow for the loss of 1962, they built their home to mentor the next generation of an enrolled member of the a much loved, valued mom and in Northern Heights, where teachers by observing and helping Citizen Potawatomi Nation. The friend. Yet, gratitude and love she resided until her death. in the teacher’s certification process. Potawatomi people prehistorically for all that she offered simply by dwelled in the Fox River Valley, After both of her girls were in Melba was married to Frazure being herself, which enriched near Jesselyn’s home in Algonquin, school, Mary began her career Scheneks in 1958 in Salina, the lives of those who knew her. the village bearing the name of the with the Hominy Public Schools Kansas. They moved all over the subfamily which the Potawatomi system, retiring after 34 years. United States due to Frazures’ Her joy of life, quick wit, un- language comes from. She career with the United States Air paralleled memory, humor and graduated – at 16 – from Putnam Barbara Ella Hamman, 83, widow Mary was preceded in death by Force. Finally returning home in laughter remained strong through- City High School in Oklahoma of the late Floyd Hamman, died her parents, A.J. and Evelyn; 1976, they settled and made their out her life. She relished family City in 1964. On a full scholarship, April 3, 2021, at Prisma Health her husband, T.H.; daughter, home in Chouteau, Oklahoma. and friends, travel, Potawatomi she earned a Bachelor of Arts, Tuomey Hospital. Born in King- Cynthia (Cindy); son-in-law, They raised two children together, gatherings, ka-chinging and mar- cum laude, from Oklahoma man, Arizona, she was a daughter Noel (Jerry) Whitton; sisters, Alta and George Schencks. veling at nature, to name a few. Zelda Hale and Connie Dyer; Baptist University in Shawnee, of the late Omer C. Lewis and and brother, Andrew. J. Cody. She was a proud Citizen Oklahoma, in 1968, with a For 54 years, she was married to Lucille Simpson Lewis. She was a Potawatomi Nation member. major in English. In 1971, she Alexander “Mickey” McPherson retired escrow assistant with Trans- Mary is survived by her She enjoyed reading about the married Mitchel Q. Morrison of until his death in 2000. They had america Title Company. She is daughter, Maria Sue Biard; history, learning the language Ardmore, Oklahoma, in Texas. As three daughters — Sandi (died in survived by three daughters, JoAn granddaughters, Marial Biard and knowing the solidarity a credentialed teacher of English, 1995), Deb in New York and Val Risdon (Cliff) of Phoenix, Arizona, and Rachel Whitton; grandson, of her Indian family. She was she worked for the Oklahoma in Georgia (spouse Jim McClure) Gina Gardner (Buddy) of Sumter, Jared Biard; sister-in-law, Mary part of the Willmette family. State Board of Regents for Higher — that they thoroughly enjoyed South Carolina, and Darla George Lou Cody; and numerous Education (1974-75), Moore and taught how to live and (Sonny) of Smithfield, Texas; a nieces, nephews and friends. She is survived by Alta Schencks Public Schools (1976-77) and First enjoy life with their own choices. sister, Donna Moody of Phoe- of Tulsa, daughter; and George Southern Baptist Church of Del Through the years, Rachel and her nix; 11 grandchildren and three A memorial Mass was celebrated Schencks of Pryor, son; several City (1978-81). She completed siblings (survived by Betty (Bob) great-grandchildren. In addition on March 20, 2021, at St. Joseph’s surviving members of her graduate coursework in English and Bob (Pat), and predeceased to her husband, she was prede- Catholic Church in Hominy. family include grandchildren, at the University of Oklahoma by Asa Jr. (Dot) and Joyce (Tony)) ceased by a brother, Russell Lewis. Submitting CPN burial assistance through Tribal Rolls obituaries The $2,000 CPN Burial Assistance Fund is automatically available to all enrolled CPN members. You may fill out

To submit an obituary, please a burial assistance fund form if you would like for us to keep it on file in case of any change in resolutions. send a word document with Please note: Once a CPN tribal member has passed, the Tribal Rolls office must be notified in order for CPN to no more than 300 words, a 300dpi photo and a contact provide burial funding. Information and instructions for the burial process will be sent to the next of kin and will phone number to be discussed then.

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