Sac and Fox Nation Announces COVID-19 Economic Support For

SAC and FOX NEWS Nemîshâtênemo êhthâkîwiyâni

Phone: 918-968-3526 • 920963 S. Hwy. 99, Bldg. A • Stroud, OK 74079 • Vol. 42 • No. 6 • June 2020 Sac and Fox Nation Announces COVID-19 Economic Support For All Enrolled Tribal Members During a Special Business Mail: Sac and Fox Nation * All payments will be mailed. Meeting held on May 21, the Attn: Finance Department “The Business Committee Sac and Fox Nation Business 920963 S. Highway 99 recognizes our tribal members Committee approved the Sac Stroud, OK 74079 have immediate needs during and Fox Nation COVID-19 this unprecedented time,” said Economic Support Program. * For the June 2020 payment, Principal Chief Justin F. Wood. In response to the COVID-19 updated mailing information “These payments will assist pandemic, this program will must be submitted by June 8th, our tribal members as we face provide economic support to all 2020 at 4:30 p.m. the COVID-19 public health enrolled tribal members. * For the September 2020 emergency. Our tribal members During the meeting, the payment, updated mailing in- are facing unforeseen fi nancial Business Committee vot- formation must be submitted needs and risks because of the ed unanimously to allocate by September 8th, 2020 at 4:30 pandemic.” S&F Employees Package $6,875,500.00 of the Coro- p.m. This economic support is navirus Aid, Relief, and Eco- * If updated mailing informa- in addition to the Sac and Fox Food Baskets for Elders nomic Security (CARES) Act tion is not provided, payments Nation COVID-19 Relief Pro- by Mike Brown and Fox Nation employees fi lled funding to the Sac and Fox will be mailed to the most recent gram for Elders approved by the Following approval by the boxes with the food items. Nation COVID-19 Economic address on fi le with the Enroll- Business Committee on April Sac and Fox Nation Business Those items included: pota- Support Program. The program ment Department. If there is no 29, 2020. The COVID-19 Re- Committee, Chief of Staff Au- toes, fl our, shortening, vegeta- is intended to provide econom- change to the mailing address, lief Program for Elders provid- drey Rose Lee coordinated the ble oil, sugar, tea, coffee, bread, ic support for tribal members there is no need to submit infor- ed a one-time disbursement to fi lling and delivery of a fi rst assorted fruit, frozen chicken during the COVID-19 public mation. all enrolled Sac and Fox tribal wave of food baskets to 300 breasts, hamburger meat, rice, health emergency. Funding will Distribution Schedule: citizens who are age 55 or over. tribal elders living in Lincoln, oatmeal, assorted fresh vegeta- be disbursed in two installments * All enrolled members of the The Sac and Fox Nation is also Payne and Pottawatomie Coun- bles, salt and pepper and bottled to all enrolled tribal members. Sac and Fox Nation age 18 or delivering food and supply bas- ties May 20-22. water. Payments will be sent in June older will receive two payments kets to elders residing in the Sac Members of the Sac and Fox 2020 and September 2020. Pro- of $1,000.00: and Fox Nation’s jurisdiction, as Nation USDA Food Distribu- Sac and Fox employees fol- gram details are as follows: * $1,000.00 payment distrib- part of the Sac and Fox Nation tion Dept. transported fi fteen lowed up by making “honk and Eligibility: uted in June 2020. Title VI Elders Program. pallets of multiple food items drop” deliveries at tribal elders’ * Enrolled members of the * $1,000.00 payment distrib- from Firelake Foods in Tecum- residences in the Stroud, Daven- Sac and Fox Nation as of June uted in September 2020. The Sac and Fox Nation seh to the Sac and Fox Nation port, Cushing, Prague, Meeker 1, 2020. * All enrolled members of the received $21,318,227.90 of Community Building where Sac and Shawnee areas. * Provide updated mailing in- Sac and Fox Nation under the CARES Act relief funding on formation. age of 18 will receive two pay- May 19, 2020. The Business * Provide current mailing ments of $250.00: Committee is working to fi - address via email, fax, or mail: * $250.00 payment distribut- nalize plans for the remaining Email: covidrelief@sacandfox- ed in June 2020. CARES Act funds. Further in- Casinos Re-Open After nation-nsn.gov * $250.00 payment distribut- formation will be provided as it Fax: 918-968-4528 ed in September 2020. becomes available. Weeks-Long Shutdown

Juaquin Hamilton Brings Ancestors With Him to the Powwow Microphone (Editors Note: The Gathering stories and some of the things and respect of singing. “Every of Nations is the largest pow- that were shared with me by my ceremony and dance I’ve ever wow in the United States and grandfathers and some of those attended we use the drum and North America. It is held annu- MC’s that made the way for me we sing. It feels good to sing ally on the fourth weekend in and encouraged me.” our songs. A lot of these songs April, on the Powwow Grounds This new voice to the an- date back to our understanding at Expo NM, in Albuquerque, nouncer table also represents of the beginning of time. A lot New Mexico. Over 565 tribes the Pawnee, Otoe, Cheyenne, of them also date back to the from around the United States Kiowa, Apache and Tonka- mid-19th Century and we are and 220 from Canada travel wa nations. Hamilton has been still singing them today.” to Albuquerque to participate. around powwow all his life and And, this energy also trans- Sac and Fox Nation Historical was raised in Pawnee, Okla- lates to the powwow drum - a Researcher and Ambassador homa. And for 20 years he’s space that Hamilton is also very Juaquin Hamilton was to begin called Shawnee, Oklahoma his familiar with. He is one of the serving as permanent master home. He is also the Historical founding voices of the Young- of ceremonies for this year’s Researcher for the Sac and Fox Bird singers who over the years has traveled the powwow cir- A member of the security team at the Sac and Fox Nation’s event. However, the event was Nation where he oversees his canceled due to the Covid-19 tribe’s tribal archives. cuit to many places. In 2002, Black Hawk Casino in Shawnee, Okla. checks the tempera- this drum was nominated for ture of Sac and Fox Nation Principal Chief Justin F. Wood on pandemic. Hamilton is looking His work career gives him forward to serving as event an- the ability to continually learn a Grammy for the best Native May 15 prior to a fi nal walk-through in preparation of the casi- American album. He knows no re-opening. Others present for the walk-through included: nouncer in April 2021. The fol- about his tribe’s history - some- lowing feature is published here thing that he uses to fortify his when you sit on a drum you get Sac and Fox Gaming Commission Director Rodney Casteel, to experience many things and Interim Casino General Manager Brad Presley and Internal with permission from Gathering foundation of respect and an un- of Nations offi cials.) derstanding. He says our Native see different of the world, even Audit and Compliance Offi cer Melissa Garland. See more Hollywood. photos inside. (Photo by Mike Brown) by Tara Gatewood cultures are our survival. Re- The bellowing sound of the fl ecting on those that continual- “There’s a feeling that we get powwow announcer is a major ly come together at Gatherings as singers when we’re singing element of the Gathering of Na- he added. other tribes have this these songs. Sometimes it’s an tions (GON). Since its begin- same type of deep understanding emotional feeling. Sometimes ning a cast of knowledgeable of the importance of culture and (Continued on Page 2) and passionate culture keepers celebrate their rich histories by have helped keep the dance cir- keeping them alive and triving cle fl owing. in the dance arena even down to This year, the GON is hon- their clothing and movements. ored to welcome a new voice to You see it all in one place their team of skilled announc- lie the GON is powerful, says ers, Juaquin Hamilton who is Hamilton. “We as indigenous a member of the Sac and Fox people in today’s society are Nation of Oklahoma. Ready the descendants of those survi- to step into this honored posi- vors that pulled through some tion, he says he’s experienced of the hardest times ion Native the powwow from different American history. And it’s very approaches or better yet,many important for us to teach the different moccasins,including younger generation about where sitting at the drum on the fl oor we came from, who we are, as a dancer. He’s also served as what we represent and where Sac and Fox Nation Committee Member Robert Williamson, a dance and drum judge as well we’re heading.” right, speaks with Sac and Fox Principal Chief Justin Wood as, an arena director. The 2020 He was also raised around the and Sac and Fox Second Chief Don Abney during a fi nal GON is his time to gift some of tail dance ceremonies, Native Pictured is Sac and Fox Na- walk-through at the Sac and Fox Casino on May 15 just prior his upbringing to the celebrated American Church and has been tion Historical Researcher to the casino re-opening. (Photo by Mike Brown) dance circle. to Sundance. He ties these hubs and Ambassador Juaquin “I get to share some of the of cultural strength to his love Hamilton. (Photo Submitted) Page 2 - Sac and Fox News - June 2020 Sac and Fox News The Sac & Fox News is the monthly Obituaries publication of the Sac & Fox Nation, located on SH 99, six miles south of Tracey Lauren Ellis-Gashwazra Stroud, OK. Tracey Lauren Ellis-Gashwazra, age While serving as Miss Indian Okla- Derrick Williams, both of Pauls Valley, Mailing address: 51, departed this life March 27, 2020. homa, she met Howard Michael Gash- Okla.; in-laws, Marvin Gashwazra and Sac and Fox Nation She was born January 15, 1969 in Ada, wazra, and they started their family. She Katherine (Springer) Gashwazra and Administration Building Okla. to Leroy Ellis and Mabel (Smith) was preceded in death by her grandpar- Shelley Gashwazra. Wake services and a noon feast were 920963 S Hwy 99 Bldg A Ellis. ents, Martin Smith and Martha Williams; parents, Leroy Ellis and Mabel (Smith) held March 31, 2020 at the Sac and Fox Stroud, OK 74079 Tracey grew up in Shawnee, Okla. and graduated from Shawnee Public Schools. Ellis; sons, Aaron Scott Gashwazra and Nation Community Building. Interment Phone: 918-968-3526 She served as ‘Miss Sac and Fox Nation’ William Shawn Gashwazra. was at the Sulphur, Okla. Cemetery, un- Fax: 918-968-4837 her senior year. She attended Oklahoma She is survived by Howard Michael der the direction of Roberts-Myers Fu- The Sac & Fox News is the official State University, majoring in Secondary Gashwazra of Lexington, Okla.; son, neral Home. publication of the Sac and Fox Education. She served as ‘Miss Indian Matthew David Gashwazra of the home; Nation. Our mission is to meet all Oklahoma’ before beginning her teaching stepson, James Ellis of Pauls Valley, tribal members information needs career with Pauls Valley Public Schools. Okla.; brother, Merle Ellis and cousin, concerning the Nation. The Sac & Fox News is mailed free, one per address, to enrolled Sac and Gathering of Nations New Announcer Fox tribal members. Paid subscriptions (Continued From Page 1) good words of Wallace Coffey and Jason are available for $12.00 annually. Goodstriker. “They encouraged me. It it’s a happy feeling. And sometimes it Editorial statements, guest columns, was always a good feeling to get that en- puts us in a frame of mind where our and letters to the editor published in couragement by those individuals. So, spirit is uplifted, and we think about this newspaper contain the opinions I carry all those good words, those en- those ancestors that passed these songs couraging words with me when I go to a of the writers. These opinions do not down to us. It’s just a beautiful feeling.” powwow. Hammond and Wallace shared necessarily reflect the opinions of This inside view into being a singer at words with me on how to keep your au- the Sac and Fox News staff or any a drum comes out when he announces, dience with you they said, ‘You too have elected official or department of tribal especially when introducing the different to humor.’ They encouraged me to not drums that gravitate to the dance circle. government or administration. be serious all the time and make the au- It’s a generational blend and at any given The Sac and Fox News reserves the dience laugh because it’s good medicine time, you are witnessing brothers, cous- right to refuse publication of letters to for our people. They shared some of ins, nephews, grandpas sitting together at the editor. All editorials and letters to their jokes with me and I shared mine.” the drum, he says. “It’s a good feeling He says he’s traveled many miles for the editor become the property of the to sit at that grandpa drum and produce a Sac and Fox News. beautiful energy for the dancers to dance (Continued on Page 3) Submissions for publication must to. Without our singers we’re unable to Tracey Lauren Ellis-Gashwazra be signed by the author and include dance. So, as an MC, I personally thank an address and contact phone number. each singer that comes to a powwow and They are limited to 300 words. The shares their music with us because, if staff will not edit editorials or letters they weren’t there we wouldn’t be able to dance.” to the editor to fit the 300-word limit. Today, powwow is a social gather- Deadline for the July issue is: ANNOUNCEMENT ing for individuals to come celebrate Friday, June 19 at 4:30 p.m. life through song and dance. “We have The Sac and Fox Nation Human Service De- Reprint permission is granted, with dancers that come and put it all of the partment is now accepting applications for FY’ proper credit to the Sac and Fox News, dance floor, share their styles and enjoy unless other copyrights are shown. themselves,” he says. And he knows a 2020 LIHEAP Cooling season for the months Articles and letters may be submitted thing or two about stepping into the arena to the newspaper either by mail or Fax especially as a Southern Straight Dancer. of May 1, 2020 through September 31, 2020. to the address provided above, - or by “Being a dancer in the circle is a beauti- You can pick up applications from the Main e-mail:newspaper@sacandfoxnation- ful thing. I’ve been in there since i was three years old. It’s an indescribable feel- nsn.gov. ing. Sometimes I’m emotional thinking Office/SMPC (please call to make an appoint- Address corrections & changes are about the old stories that my grandpa or ment and we can take the application to your accepted by The Business Committee grandma shareed with me. Sometimes at the address listed below. a song will just put me in a good frame vehicle) or off the Sac and Fox Nation website. of mind. Sometimes a song will remind Managing Editor me of a difference powwow. There’s all If you have any questions please contact Car- Mike Brown these different feelings we go through as a dancer.” Praying for others as you ro- rie LaDeaux, Interim Human Services Direc- For information: tate around the arena is also something 918-968-3526 x1060 he says a lot of dancers do. tor at 918/968-3526 ext. 2010 or email Carrie. [email protected] He says when he was a kid he had dif- [email protected]. Publisher: Sac and Fox Nation ferent individuals that he’d watch closely. Member of “I would look up to my grandfathers and Native American Journalists their fancy foot work like Abe Conklin Assn - Since 1988 from the Ponca Nation and Ronnie Har- Member OPA ris from Sac and Fox. I thought they had ~~~~~~~ a little flashy touch to their style. Not only did I look up to them for their danc- Happy June Birthday Elders! Tribal Officers: ing but, also how they carried themselves 918-968-3526 or 800-259-3970 in tribal society. And when it comes to being an an- Oresa June Wilson Sharon Kay Noah Principal Chief: nouncer, he knows there are many plates Frederick Allen Trammell Deborah Lou Smith Justin Freeland Wood you have to keep spinning. Powwow Hilda Quintana Linda Sue Ellis Telephone (918) 968-3526 schedules, lists of drum groups, lists of Phyllis Marie Williams Sharron McAllister Ext. 1004 veterans carrying in the colors and eagle staff, list of judges and a large list of an- Charles William Wallace Francene Wolfe [email protected] nouncements are all things that powwow Becky Marie Martinez John Wallace Nelson announcers have to seamlessly weave to- Cheryl Denise Wallace Angela Sue Wakolee Second Chief: gether when they are on the mic. David D. Hocker Bobbe Ann Tipton Don Abney “When you’re sitting at the table of a Phyllis Ruth Ramseyer Pearl Darlene Lovelady powwow announcer there’s papers every! Telephone (918) 968-3526 Roseanna Frances Preston Roy Dale Longshore Ext. 1008 And, you have to keep track of what’s David Paul York Clyde Saulsberry [email protected] going on in the arena, while people are asking you questions from behind. And William Lloyd Grass Vincent Lee Bruno Secretary: you have to keep track of the schedule Charlotte Estelle Lane Ronald Arthur Cummins and who’s dancing next and who’s sing- Shirley Jean Garrison Basil R. Yarbrough Jacklyn K. King ing, and how many groups are in the Telephone (918) 968-3526 dance categories. Sometimes it can be Ramona Ann Hilligoss Dennis Alan Keo Ext. 1007 hectic, but while you’re doing all of this Gary Wayne Hodgens Mary E. Eldredge [email protected] you have to keep your audience at the Kimberly Kay Kahbeah Billie Grass powwow so, you have to be knowledge- Ramona Marie Johnson David Jon Mascorro Treasurer: able in the history in all the categories Jacqueline Allene Holly Vickie Alice Brown and all the different singing styles. You Jared King also have to be humorous and prayerful.” Lisa Louise Macy Michael S. Trammell Telephone (918) 968-3526 He says his participation in his tribal Alphues Christjohn Wilson Tina Marie Mendieta Ext. 1006 society has given a lot of experience in Dawn Hawkins Horton Peter T. Miles [email protected] keeping respect as the guiding princi- Yvonne Allison Heminokeky Carole Ann Franklin ple, especially ceremony. “Being a part Connie Paulette Rhodd Murna Lee Lack Committee Member: of yo9ur ceremonies, your ulture, yuou learn how to be respectful, you learn Viola Kay Allen Linus Roubidoux Robert Williamson Paul Ray Hodgens Mary Sue Britt Telephone (918) 968-3526 consideration, you learn compassion. So, when I’m at a powwow or I’m on the mi- Raymond L. Pennock Sherri Leigh Tate Ext. 1005 crophone, it’s a reflection of who I am as Rodney Keith Delaware Elizabeth June Wolftongue [email protected] an individual.” Hamilton says this pretty Christine McDonald Emmett Francis Brown much goes for all powwow announcers. Business Committee “Most people who take part (in this role) Ronald Wayne Ahgoom Peggy Melody Springer Mailing Address: learn this from where we come from.” David Roy Patten Howard James Murie Sac and Fox Nation He’s been on the mic for about 6 years, Brenda June Hutchens Ronald Charles Goodeagle Administration Building starting in the fall of 2013. “Since then Stewart Matthew Brown Larry James Ward 920963 S Hwy 99 Bldg A I’ve had MC’s encourage me along the Deborah Diane Wachter Ronald Lee Galloway way. Some of them are not here anymore. Stroud, OK 74079 People like Sammy White and Hammond Francis J. Garcia Constance Irene Whitlow Visit us on the webb @ Motah,” he added. White was a regular Lamont L. Long Diane Elizabeth Coombs sacandfoxnation.com announcer at GON for many years before Richard Leroy Pawling Lori Ann Penner click news he walked on. Hamilton also noted the Larry Ernest Eldredge Martin Edward Franklin Page 3 - Sac and Fox News - June 2020 Business Committee Meeting Minutes

Sac and Fox Nation Chief Justin Wood, left, and Black Hawk Casino Interim General Manager Brad Presley, right, are pictured Nicole and Terry Thomp- son of Willis, Texas who were the ﬁ rst in line for the May 15 re-opening of the Black Hawk Casino. (Photo by Mike Brown)

Announcer Juaquin Hamilton (Continued From Page 2) He says, when the fi rst time he gets to powwow and that it’s always an honor to hold the mic for, the fi rst time at this year’s be connected to these tribal affairs. “It’s powwow he’ll be looking around with a always awesome to be a part of something full heart and saying to himself, “Look so special and positive. It’s very import- how many dancers are here, standing ant or our young kids to be involved, to in their dance regalia. Look how many understand why we do what we do and drums are here. We’re all descends of to know the creation stories behind our those survivors that fought for our land, dances, to know who composed certain our rights and for their families. We all songs and what they mean. It’s a good have that blood that runs through us and feeling to be a part of that and share what there’s this sense of belonging. There’s I know with the people as an MC.” a sense of happiness. We’re one. We’re all together. We made it. And we’re here. Something else that’s pumping him Shown from left prior to the re-opening of the Black Hawk Casino are Interim up for this year’s Gatherings is knowing And we’re dancing and we’re celebrating life thorough song and dance.” General Manager Brad Presley, Sac and Fox Gaming Commission Director he’ll get to witness dancers from both Rodney Casteel and Sac and Fox Chief Justin Wood. (Photo by Mike Brown the U.S. and Canada who’ve prepared all winter long, doing repairs and making new bead work. And the songs, he says he can’t wait for the drums to break out the brand-new songs they’ve been com- JUNE AT BLACK HAWK CASINO posing all winter. “I’m really excited and humbled and so ready for being a new MC for the Gathering of Nations.” In the past, Ham- ilton’s voice has also helped bring in the GON gourd dance sessions. When he got the invitation to come on board as a permanent announcer last year he was honored. He shared GON had a southern announcer for many years, Sammy White. CLEANED & When he passed away and his chair stood vacant. Knowing he has some huge moccasins to fi ll Hamilton said, “I’m coming in a good way with good thoughts. I really looked up to Sammy. In my heart I’m going to do it in honor of him, in memory SANITIZED of him.” To come on board as a permanent announcer and as the youngest is a great honor, he says. And the bonus “I’ll get to BY share the mic with some of my good friends.” He said, he’s worked with these gentlemen in different communities. “They have welcomed me with open arms and it’s all good.” He added, “I really like it when individuals can work well with each other and respect each other to better the powwow.” He said the men who he will get to sit with have paved the way for him and they include Dennis Bowen Sr., Vince Beyl and Ruben Little Head. “These are the veterans, these are the professionals in the powwow world. To share that microphone and that stage with them is pretty mind blowing actually. To have the opportunity to speak on that platform in front of that many people there are many emotions going through me right now. I’m excited. I’m nervous. I’m happy. It’s a big honor to be on that stage with this line up, these are big tim- BLACK HAWK CASINO is taking ers.” extra measures with JaniKing to provide a safe and sanitized environment for our guests.

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Sac and Fox Nation Education Department News by Edwina Butler-Wolfe

Hello Everyone! way anymore. We will have to change classrooms. Nation Education Department. 918 968- As of May 4th the Education Depart- ways you may see some programs hav- The Education Department has been 3526, ext: 2046 or 405 328-0402 cell ment is now open Monday thru Friday ing to change as well. The public schools looking at all avenues of serving your number. from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm. When are looking at how they will handle the child better. We would like to do a short UPDATE: CARES ACT – COVID-19 coming back into the office on May 4th upcoming school year of 2020 -2021. survey on your feedback on your child/ INDIAN EDUCATION it was different and felt a little strange Will keeping distance still be in place children during the COVID/19 closing of The CARES Act appropriated a $30.75 since being gone on March 18, 2020. and will virtual learning distance be a school. One of our concern is IF this virus billion called the Education Stabilization The way of things that we were custom continue option for families to consider should happen again like some are saying Fund for the Department of Education. to doing, we no longer can do things that verses sending their children back to the that it could in the Fall, we want to be Of this fund one-half of one percent is somewhat ready with schools being shut to be made available “to the Secretary of down. Many questions came up on the the Interior”, with consultation with the subject of how many of our Sac and Fox Secretary of Education, for programs op- children had the equipment to continue erated or funded by the Bureau of Indi- Congratulations to Our 2020 their education through virtual learning. an Education (BIE). Which equal out to Did they have laptops, chrome books, be $153.75 million. There is no specific Sac and Fox Nation Graduates! or access to Internet? Some schools did distribution or allocation of the $153.75 furnish some technology equipment but million for BIE programs. Matthew Butler there were some schools that did not There was a listening session sched- have the resources. uled for April 24, 2020, with the U.S. My name is Matthew But- It is very unfortunately that with the Department of Education and U.S. De- ler, a senior from Meeker COVID/19 that our Sac and Fox High partment of the Interior’s Bureau of Indi- High School. I have complet- School Seniors missed out on their Ju- an Education but it was cancelled due to nior and Senior Banquets, sporting technical problems and was re-scheduled ed two years of HVAC from events and walking across the stage on to April 28 and April 30, 2020. The tim- Gordon Cooper Tech. I am an graduation night. Being a high school ing of the cancellation was not favorable enrolled member of the Sac graduate is an important achievement in due to the comments were due on May & Fox tribe and have been your life. You are an achiever. You have 1, 2020. Which only gave the Education made the Sac and Fox Nation a proud Department only days to complete our a part of the Indian Club at Nation!! You are our future leaders comments. school. I love fishing and be- of this great Nation!! The Sac and Fox The submission of comments was re- ing outdoors. I plan on com- Nation Education Department wants to ferring to the Johnson O’Malley Program pleting more HVAC training CONGRATULATE!!!! THE SAC AND that the Sac and Fox Nation Education FOX SENIORS!! For their dedication of Department administers. We stated that and onto college. I want to 12 years and accomplishing their goals. our American Indian Students are in need thank everyone who stood by We are very proud of you!! of lap tops, chrome books, hotspot devic- and supported me throughout High School seniors do not forget that es due to not having Internet service of the years. It was a hard and there is a senior incentive of $200.00 being located in rural areas. We hope that from RAP Program. Students must sub- BIE and Department of Education will bumpy road to get to where mit a completed 12th grade graduation take our comments into consideration. It I am today. I am proud to application and return the application was worth a try to get our concerns out, graduate this year, and hope to the Sac and Fox Nation’s Education if we had not then they would have not to still be a great guy in the office within 60 days of graduation (Au- known what our needs are here at the Sac gust 30, 2020). Below is a checklist of and Fox Nation. We did make the dead- future. what you need to turn into the Education line of May 1, 2020 but only to know lat- Department: er that they extended the deadline to May 1. Graduating application 6, 2020. 2. Privacy Statement to be signed by stu- I would like to thank some individuals dent here at the Nation: Sarah Brown, Audrey 3. W-9 Lee, Business Committee for seeing this 4. Submit tribal enrollment card (CDIB) task was taken care of and sent off. Congratulations to Our 2020 NOTE: FUNDS ARE AVAILABLE ON On another note I would like to say A FIRST-COME, FIRST-SERVE BA- thank you to Nikki Hendricks and Pam Sac and Fox Nation Graduates! SIS AND DOES REQUIRE THAT ALL Patterson on their help with the docu- THE ABOVE ARE INCLUDED WITH ments of needing Chief Wood’s signature, Rosemary Celeste Massey THE SUBMITTED APPLICATION. that the Education Department needed to Eighth grade graduates will need to get out to schools and to Washington DC. Rosemary Celeste Massey is a follow the same rules as the senior grad- As everyone pulls together we will Kindergarten graduate of North uates as listed above. Eighth grade incen- ALL make it through these rough times! tive is $100. College graduate incentive If you have any concern please let us Rock Creek School of 2019 – is $1,000. Will need to follow the same know. 2020. Rosemary is 6 years old and rules as listed above. Thank you, is a Sac and Fox Tribal Member All forms are on the Sac and Fox Na- Edwina Butler-Wolfe and her clan is the Wolf Clan. She tion website, if you need help with ob- 405 328-0402 cell number enjoys playing outside, coloring taining forms please call the Sac and Fox and playing with her Barbies. Her future goal is to be a doc- tor when she grows up so that she can help people that are sick. Rosemary’s is the daughter of Bri- ana Wakolee and the late Raymond EDUCATION DEPARTMENT NOTICE Massey. She has two brothers Tomi Calderon and Anthoni Calderon. Her grandfather is Curtis (Dagwood) Wakolee and ma- for College - Vocational and Adult Education ternal-grandmother Henrietta Applications Massey. Rosemary cannot wait for next school year, and she hopes are on the Sac and Fox Nation Web site - that everyone is doing well! Click on Education for downloads.

Congratulations to Our 2020 Congratulations to Our 2020 Sac and Fox Nation Graduates! Sac and Fox Nation Graduates! Stormie Diane Staley Duane D. Wildcat My name is Stormie Diane Sta- Duane D. Wildcat is the son of Min- ley and I am a member of the Sac nie Hopper and Dion Wildcat. He is and Fox Nation. I am a senior and the grandson of Joe and Juliet Hopper I’m graduating from Shawnee High and Thomasine and Jay Wildcat. His School with a 3.87 GPA. I have been hobbies and interests including playing baseball and basketball, and he enjoys involved in Student Council through- being around family and friends. out my high school career, and I am Duane has been a member of both the currently the Student Council pres- Whippet baseball and basketball teams ident. I’ve been on the Principal’s throughout his high school career, re- Honor Roll for 4 years, and received ceiving numerous awards from both the Rotary Club Leadership Award. such as the Baseball Rawhide Award, the Ive been accepted and enrolled into Set the Table Award and the Hosepiece Oklahoma City Community College Award, the basketball Mr. Versatility where I will get my associates degree Award and the I Got Your Back Award. in Digital Cinema Production. Once Most recently, he was named to the I have my associates, I will hopeful- 2020 All-Star Small East Class B Team in basketball. He is proud that even ly be able to attend the University of though his senior year did not end like Southern California to get my Bache- anyone expected, he was still part of the lors degree in film-making. 2019 Fall Baseball State Semifinalist I am the daughter of Rose Ste- Team, and the 2019-2020 State Basket- phens-Staley and William Scott Sta- ball Quarterfinalist Team. After gradu- ley, and the granddaughter of the late ation from Varnum High School, Duane Dolores Carter and James Edward would like to go to college and obtain a Stephens. Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Educa- tion. Page 5 - Sac and Fox News - June 2020 Food Baskets Delivered to Sac and Fox Tribal Elders

Sac and Fox Nation Chief of Staff Audrey Rose Lee is shown in the Sac and Fox Nation Community Building speaking to some of the employ- Sac and Fox Nation employees are pictured using teamwork to fill food ees who helped prepare food baskets for delivery to tribal elders. baskets for delivery to tribal elders. (All Photos by Mike Brown)

Sac and Fox Nation employees are shown unpacking food items for the elders’ food basket program. Workers are shown packaging safety face masks that were included in the elders’ food baskets.

Sac and Fox Nation USDA Food Distribution Director Sam Spang and a helper are shown bringing pallets of food items into the Community A Firelake Foods employee is pictured loading one of fifteen pallets of food Building for the elders’ food baskets. into a Sac and Fox Nation USDA Food Distribution Dept. truck for transportation to the Sac and Fox Nation Community Building.

Kids and Grandkids Are G-R-E-A-T!!

We want to feature the scholastic, academic and athletic awards or achievements of your child or grandchild of the Sac and Fox Nation! Send all pertinent information, such as name of student, town, school and grade attending, explanation of award or achievement, and names of parents and/or grandparents, along with a current photo of the student to: [email protected] Sac and Fox Nation Maintenance Dept. personnel are shown loading or: Sac and Fox News, 920963 S. Hwy. 99 food baskets for delivery to tribal elders’ residences in Stroud, Daven- Stroud, OK 74079 port, Meeker, Cushing, Shawnee and Prague areas. Page 6 - Sac and Fox News - June 2020 HELP WANTED! SAC & FOX NATION EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES The following is a list of job vacancies with the Sac & Fox Nation: Self-Governance Director Chief Financial Director Resident Advisor (Juvenile Detention Center) Land and Cattle Laborer Head Cook Economic Development Director Meal Delivery Driver (Part-time) Custodian - BHHC Custodian - Maintenance Licensed Clinical Social Worker - BHHC Transportation Driver Certified Pool Operator Manager Lifeguard Landscaper/Laborer ICW Specialist RAP Assistant - Part-time

Applicants must successfully pass an OSBI/National background check and drug screen. Preference in hiring is given to qualified Native Americans. Applicants claiming Indian Preference must provide a copy of their CDIB. For more information and to learn how to apply please visit our website at: www.sacandfoxnation.com or contact Human Resources, Sac and Fox Nation, 920963 S. Hwy. 99, Bldg. A Stroud, OK 74079 or by phone (918) 968-3526

Business Committee Meeting Minutes are now accessible on the Website and Facebook sacandfoxnation-nsn.gov

Check FaceBook For Updates on the Opening!!!

(Children Under age 12 must be accompanied by an adult)

and Full Payment Must be Received Page 7- Sac and Fox News - June 2020 Page 8- Sac and Fox News - June 2020 July 2020

SAC AND FOX NATION FOOD DISTRIBUTION PROGRAM STROUD WAREHOUSE 918-968-3030 • 1-800-256-3398 SHAWNEE OFFICE 405-395-0063 • 1-886-622-2310

NOTICE CAMP CLEAN-UP In preparation for Pow-Wow, there will be two Camp Clean-Up Days: May 8 and June 19 Please have trash ready for pickup by the roadway and larger items please mark with an X so we know to go into the camp for disposal. If you have limbs around your camp please pick them up so we can mow around the campsite.

If at least 1 in your household has a CDIB, you reside within our 5 tribe Service Area, & you meet USDA Income Guidelines… YOU MAY QUALIFY!!! CALL TODAY!!! 1-800-256-3398 This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

Page 9 - Sac and Fox News - June 2020 Container Gardening is a Great Place to Start for Novice Gardeners by Trisha Gedon time consuming, which makes it perfect Oklahoma State University for those just getting interested in gar- Agricultural Communications Services dening. Basically, once the flowers, herbs For some folks, gardening is a mystery or vegetables are planted, all you have to – perhaps even intimidating. Some want- do it keep it fertilized and watered.” to-be gardeners may believe they don’t Keep in mind that Oklahoma’s sum- know enough about it to try, or are sim- mer heat quickly can dry out the potting ply convinced they don’t have a green soil in the containers, so be vigilant with thumb. proper watering. The extra time spent For those who don’t know a rose bush watering compensates for the lack of from a tomato plant, there is still hope. time spent weeding. David Hillock, Oklahoma State Univer- Another bonus of container gardening sity Extension consumer horticulturist, is not only does the plant being grown said anyone can garden, no matter their add something to the landscape, the con- skill level or the size of the landscape. tainer itself can add texture, color and “Obviously, big, elaborate gardens and whimsy. Hillock said to get creative landscapes take time and talent. But, if when selecting the container. 920963 S. Hwy. 99, Building A • Stroud, OK 74079 • (918) 968-1141 • FAX (918) 968-1142 you start slowly, maybe with just a toma- “Think way beyond the basic flow- to plant, a pot of herbs or even a few col- erpot. Find something that reflects your orful annuals, you’re bound to have suc- interests and personality,” he said. “If cess,” Hillock said. “Starting small and there’s a pair of old rainboots taking up slow also is a great way to get kids inter- space in your house, take them outside, ested in horticulture. It’s easy to get start- fill with soil and plant something in ed gardening by planting a dish garden, them. Have the kids outgrown that old container garden or a succulent garden.” toy dump truck or wagon? Fill them with A dish garden is a type of container gar- plants. Repurpose an old galvanized tub den, typically made with shallow dishes into a planter. Gardeners are limited only or bowls and with multiple plants in one by their imaginations.” container. The great thing about a dish As with dish gardens, drainage is a key garden is that different species of plants factor with container gardens. When pot- can be mixed and matched. However, ting soil becomes waterlogged, the plants Hillock said to make sure the plants have often will experience root rot and die. similar water and light requirements. Simply drill a few holes in the bottom of Hillock also said the dish must have the container and the issue is resolved. enough room and proper growth medium Visual interest is a big part of garden- to support the plants. In addition, keep ing and easily can be created with con- drainage in mind. tainers by planting a tall plant in the mid- “Don’t use a layer of gravel in the bot- dle and filling in the space around it with tom of the dish. This actually will hinder smaller plants. Finish the look by choos- water movement away from the roots,” ing a few plants that will drape over the he said. “The media used for a dish gar- edges of the container. den will vary, depending on the type of Hillock said yet another advantage of plants. Choose something that drains container gardening is that the container well, but holds adequate moisture. The is portable. The containers can be moved soil also shouldn’t be very fertile, as this around the patio to create different looks. encourages rapid growth.” And, if relocation is in the future, the The great thing about dish gardening containers can make the move, as well. is the plants used generally stay small or “Young folks, or those with a few grow slowly. A popular plant group for more years of life experience, who hav- dish gardening is succulents, for exam- en’t gardened for one reason or another, ple. Succulents don’t need as much depth really should consider a dish or contain- as other plants because they can tolerate er garden,” Hillock said. “You just never shallow rooting and longer dry spells. know what you’re capable of until you Don’t make the mistake of planting a get a little dirt under your fingernails.” succulent with a plant that likes moist soil and high humidity. Container gardening is another option for beginners, and it opens up even more possibilities than dish gardens. “Some people may think container gardens are just for flowers or small shrubs, but you actually can grow a wide variety of edibles, including vegetables and herbs. Herbs or a tomato plant are great choices for novice gardeners,” Hill- ock said. “Although container gardening includes many of the same elements as traditional gardening, it isn’t nearly as

Business Committee Meeting Minutes are now accessible on the Website sacandfoxnation-nsn.gov and Facebook

Why the ‘nsn.gov’ Designation? From time to time, a question has been asked as to why the Sac and Fox Nation uses such a special exclusive (and longer) native sov- ereign nation dot gov Internet designation and name:

The “nsn dot gov” (nsn.gov) designation carries with it more signif- icant levels of legitimacy, trust, and authority than a commercial, “dot com” domain name.

“NSN DOT GOV” confirms that it is an official government website that has been certified, veri- fied, and recognized by the United States Government.

Of course, commercial sub-en- tities and public political subdi- visions of tribal government may also use a commercial dot com designation for commercial-oriented purposes. Truman Carter RAP Assistance Application Forms Provided Here

Internet Safety Tips For Parents and Guardians: Dealing with Social Media In Today’s Digital Age (Part 1) by Lt. Raymond “Chip” Smith eration and technology. Sac and Fox Nation Step 1 is simple, yet, for most of us Police Dept. this will be the hardest part. Talk to your child about the apps, social media plat- We’ve all been there as parents, guard- forms and websites that they frequent ians, responsible adults, some of us on the web. Be honest and seek hones- as cops; our kids just won’t put those ty from them. Explain to them that your darned phones down. “What are they concerned about Social Media content doing on those things all day, and some- and, this will be the hardest part, LIS- times night?” TEN. Listen to their feedback, don’t Some of us have had to pick up the judge what they say. Put all of that info pieces of your child’s spirit and self es- into your internal fi lter and fi lter out the teem after a terrible bout of cyber-bul- important parts for you as a parent. lying. Some of us have seen those same Ask the hard questions, even if it children turn to drugs, other addictive be- makes you, and them, uncomfortable. havior, or self-harm because of that same Figure out what Social Media platforms cyber-bullying. they use and add those apps to your It is also estimated that 85-90% of all phone. Add your children on those Me- Child Sex Traffi cking is facilitated in one dia Apps and monitor their activity and way or another over one of the various posts. Some Apps, such as SnapChat, platforms of Social Media. For all the are designed for one-on-one contact; but scary tales of the “Dark Web”, there are you can still monitor the child’s Story for ten Back Page or Craig’s List style sites disturbing/ irregular posts. If you only that operate out in the open for all eyes to take one thing away from this fi rst part of see; You just need enough knowledge to this series, please let it be this; begin the know where to look. process of monitoring your teen’s Social That makes it even harder for those of Media content. It only takes a few min- us who are “Technologically Non-Gift- utes and could save your child from some ed”, such as myself. Today, we will start pain and suffering in the future and help to learn about how to begin to be proac- build a stronger bond between the two of tive whenearn dealing with FREE the younger gen-collegeyou for the future. tuition it’s Oklahoma’s Promise

With Oklahoma’s Promise, the Oklahoma Higher Learning Access Program, 8th, 9th, and 10th grade students whose family income is $50,000 or less can earn FREE COLLEGE TUITION Apply online at www.okpromise.org or Contact the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education by e-mail at [email protected] or by phone at 1-8-858-1840 (225-9152 in OKC) Get an application from your counselor