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VOLUME LIX | NUMBER 27 THURSDAY, JULY 02, 2020 NAVAJOTIMES.COM Schools prepare to reopen amid pandemic

BY CINDY YURTH TSÉYI’ BUREAU

WINDOW ROCK — The Navajo Nation’s schools, located in three different states and under various types of administration, are making widely divergent plans for reopen- ing next month as the COVID-19 pandemic continues. At least one Arizona district will be entirely online for the time being; New Mexico’s schools are being mandated by the state to take a hybrid approach; and San Juan School District in Utah will base its strategy on an online survey of staff, students and parents. According to its website, Chinle Unified School District in the heart of the res- ervation (and the current hotspot of the COVID-19 pandemic) is not taking any chances and school will be entirely online until further notice. The district has purchased 3,000 laptops — enough for every student — and equip- ment to set up Wi-Fi hotspots for those who don’t have access to the internet. Students NAVAJO TIMES | DONOVAN QUINTERO will have the option to check out the laptops Nelson Benally sits by his flock of sheep and goats on Monday near Sawmill, Ariz. Benally was forced to leave his summer campsite with his herd of more by paying a small insurance premium, than 160 sheep and goats due to the Wood Springs 2 fire. SEE REOPEN | A2 ‘Where the fire started’ 65-year-old sheepherder evacuates with herd

BY DONOVAN QUINTERO NAVAJO TIMES

OOD SPRINGS, ARIZ. — Nelson Benally, 65, who was evacuated from his summer sheep camp on Monday, said he saw the NAVAJO TIMES | SHARON CHISCHILLY lightning that started the Wood Shiprock rises behind a field of hemp last week. WSprings 2 fire. Neighbors of the hemp farm complain of a He was at his camp on Saturday when it skunk-like odor, bright lights disturbing their began sprinkling. At the same time, he heard sleep and non-Navajo workers who drive too fast. a loud thunder crack through the Defiance Plateau forest. A bright flash of lighting hit the earth. Hemp farm neighbors Soon it began to smolder. “That’s where the fire started,” he said in Navajo. complain of smell, He said he saw wildland fire fighters arrive seemingly in no time and work on putting out NAVAJO TIMES | DONOVAN QUINTERO lights, use of water the fire. He went back to herding his flock. On Sunday, Benally thought fire crews ABOVE: A DC-10 extinguished the fire because he didn’t see airplane converted ARLYSSA BECENTI any smoke. He went about his chores thinking to fight fires releases NAVAJO TIMES nothing more of it. fire retardant over By the afternoon, he looked toward where the trees while SHIPROCK – It’s not easy being Dineh Be- he saw the lighting strike, he said, and saw fighting the Wood nally’s neighbor. rising black smoke billowing into the air. It Springs 2 fire on Loretta Bennett and Marietta Lister live was getting large. Monday. The fire has, down a narrow road in Shiprock and for “Now it seems bad,” he said. so far, burned nearly years it’s been a safe and peaceful place to Benally’s sister, Mary Blackmountain from 9,000 acres since it grow their children and grandchildren. It’s Kinlichee, said when she saw the fire start began on Saturday. been a good area to raise horses, and grow again, she became concerned for her little alfalfa, fruits and vegetables. brother and knew she had to go check on him, LEFT: A large plume But this picturesque surrounding especially after her nephew told her he was of smoke from the changed drastically once Benally took it being stubborn about evacuating. So they got Wood Springs 2 vire upon himself to bring in outside workers ready and took water. rises into the air on in order to develop a hemp farm without “We hauled water for his sheep and goats at Sunday. The fire has consulting his neighbors. midnight,” Blackmountain said, referring to burned nearly 9,000 “We have a lot of greenhouses … It gives acres since it started a bad skunk odor,” said Bennett. “They nev- SEE SHEEPHERDER | A4 on Saturday. er approached me … All of a sudden I saw NAVAJO TIMES | DONOVAN QUINTERO SEE COMPLAIN | A4

Lizer voted for $300M investment in ‘company’ that may be Remington

BY RIMA KRISST ple demand the committees who ment. with the Nation’s financial ‘Fake news?’ all claimed to have no knowl- NAVAJO TIMES are discussing this proposal do The story about the possibili- advisor RBK, where recommen- The last time the Remington edge of the offer until they read so openly and not in executive ty of a revived Remington deal dations go from the Investment purchase was considered by the about it in the New York Times. WINDOW ROCK — Last week- session…” broke last Friday when The Committee to the Budget and Navajo Nation, the potential Pearline Kirk, the Navajo end, after word that the Navajo In an ironic twist, Nez’s own Wall Street Journal announced Finance Committee for approv- deal was revealed to the public Nation’s controller, remained Nation might purchase Reming- vice president, Myron Lizer, that the firearms manufacturer al and then to the president. in a July 16, 2019 New York mum on the matter, Branch ton Arms Co. hit the national voted for the $300 million was “preparing to file for chap- Damon stated he could not of- Times article that referred to a promptly launched an investi- news, President Jonathan Nez investment proposal on June ter 11 protection … and is in ficially verify if the “company” “draft letter” from the Nation gation, and a firestorm of duel- confirmed to the Navajo Times 12 while sitting on the Navajo advanced talks for a potential in play was indeed Remington. offering to buy the gun manu- ing press releases between the that the $300 million “Reming- Nation Investment Committee bankruptcy sale to the Navajo “There could be ongoing facturer for $475 to $525 million president’s office and speaker’s ton proposal” was again on the as Nez’s proxy, according to Nation…” investments and dealings with in cash. office ensued. table. Speaker Seth Damon, begging Damon explained that as a investors but I can’t comment The story shocked the Na- “As president, I question the Because of concerns about the question, once again, who normal course of business, on any negotiations that may or tion, including then-President secrecy by which this offer lack of transparency the last knew what when? the Nation can work on poten- may not exist,” said Damon. Russell Begaye, Vice President time the idea was considered in Neither Nez nor Lizer re- tial investments through the Jonathan Nez and then-Attor- SEE LIZER | A4 2018, Nez said, “The Navajo peo- sponded to a request for com- Investment Committee process ney General Ethel Branch, who

INSIDE WHERE TO BUY OPINION A6 NATIVE NEWS C2 The Times is sold in stores OBITUARIES A11 CLASSIFIEDS D1 VOLUME LIX | NUMBER 27 throughout the region. SPORTS B1 PUBLIC NOTICES D2 navajotimes.com/ © 2020 Navajo Times Publishing Co., Inc. All Rights Reserved COMMUNITY C1 contacts/locations A2 THURSDAY, JULY 02, 2020 NAVAJO TIMES Casinos push back ‘It’s not OK’ reopening Personnel policies failing virus-exposed frontline workers

BY RIMA KRISST COVID-19, they must use accrued his own family members are scared to a communication breakdown between date NAVAJO TIMES annual or sick leave, or be approved for talk because they’ve been told by their DPM and department supervisors if the leave without pay or seek family medi- supervisors not to break the chain of employees have been reaching out to del- WINDOW ROCK — Imagine being a Na- cal leave, which James says sends them command. egates saying that they’ve been forced to BY BILL DONOVAN vajo Nation essential employee who has back to Square One. “We have employees who tell us that use their sick or annual leave. SPECIAL TO THE TIMES been exposed to or contracted COVID-19 Becenti clarified that in order to there’s dysfunction that goes on in pro- “We pay you a salary to get this in the line of duty and all you’re trying receive the 120-day COVID-19 leave em- grams,” said Otto Tso. information relayed out to the division LOS ANGELES – The Navajo to do is quarantine and take care of ployees need to make a written request James suggested that once an employ- directors and program managers,” said Nation Gaming Enterprise yourself and your family. to their supervisor. Once the leave is ee tests positive for COVID-19, it should Tso. “It’s the responsibility of these has announced another Imagine that during this time when granted, the employees cannot come be entered into the DPM system and programs! It’s an executive branch delay in re-opening its four you most need support you are faced back to work unless they have a doctor’s there should be no further questions function!” casinos. The new date for with bureaucratic red tape and hostile note saying they are no longer positive, or limitations put on their recovery be- reopening is July 28. supervisors who, instead of helping, are she said. cause of leave policies or other burden- PPE was unavailable The casinos have been making matters worse. Becenti confirmed that if employees some requirements for documentation. closed since mid-March That was the picture painted by need to go beyond the 120-day leave, He said that while he and other dele- Becenti said that all division directors as part of the shutdown of delegates at last Thursday’s Naabik’iya- they need to notify their supervisor and gates have received complaints from de- have been advised to work with their businesses in Arizona and ti Committee meeting who said the can apply for short-term disability or partments, the majority he has received supervisors and program managers to New Mexico in the attempt Department of Personnel’s policies Workman’s Compensation in addition to have come from the Division of Public obtain PPE for their employees, but that by tribe and state leaders to are failing essential employees, while family medical leave. Safety, where many employees were ex- it was a challenge to get supplies early slow the spread of COVID-19, non-essential employees are at home Several delegates said the legislation posed to COVID-19 on the job, especially on in the pandemic. the disease caused by the collecting administrative leave scot-free. has caused confusion and hardship early in the pandemic when they had no “We can’t always rely on our employer coronavirus. When they become ill with COVID-19, because it contradicts the president’s personal protective equipment. to provide everything for us,” said Bec- The 1,000-plus employees some frontline employees are reporting office’s state of emergency order that “If all of the PPE gears were there in enti. “We have to try to help in any way of the enterprise will remain to delegates that they have been forced closed government offices and granted the first place, they most likely wouldn’t we can because of the shortages. As em- on administrative leave with to use their own sick and annual leave to nonessential employees administrative have been exposed,” he said. ployees we have to do our part, whether pay, said Brian Parrish, in- cover their absence. leave for its duration. “In some of these departments, includ- we make our own masks or bring our terim CEO of the enterprise. In response, on June 3, the Health, Ed- “We are forcing our employees to use ing corrections, police departments, own hand sanitizers.” The reopening date is ucation and Human Services Committee up their sick leave and annual leave social services, and senior centers, those “I don’t agree with that,” said Delegate tentative as board members passed a bill (No. 122-20, Resolution and on top of that we have an executive frontline workers were practically out Eugenia Charles-Newton. “I think your continue to meet with tribal HEHSCJN-08-20) to amend the Nation’s order that says the president has issued there with no protection,” said James. statement is inappropriate and I think leaders to determine when the personnel policy to provide 120 hours of administrative leave,” said Delegate “Nothing was put in their budget for that mentality needs to change. casinos can be opened safely. leave to employees who been exposed to Otto Tso. “They should not be using PPE until just recently. Because of this “I believe that during this pandemic if With other tribes opening or have tested positive for COVID-19, or any of their sick leave or annual leave situation, our Navajo employees were you’re going to ask employees to report their casinos in Arizona a who need to care for a family member whatsoever.” exposed to COVID-19.” to work, you should have the necessary month ago and a number in who has the virus. “Which policy supersedes the other?” Furthermore, some employees who are equipment to keep them safe,” she said. “If New Mexico also reopening HEHSC Chairman Daniel Tso said asked James. “It all comes back to DPM. still recovering are now being told they you don’t have that equipment, then I don’t in late June, the board was after hearing many complaints from es- Who is actually in control?” have to apply for family medical leave, think we have the right to ask our Navajo hoping to reopen on July 6 sential employees, the COVID-19-related James said he does not understand why but the process to qualify is lengthy and Nation employees to report to work.” with special rules to encour- leave bill was developed so that people the HEHSC leave bill was put in place. employees fear a gap in pay, which could Charles-Newton says she does not un- age social distancing and would not have to tap into their leave or “It should have been a part of the put them at risk financially. derstand how delegates continue to hear wearing protective masks. go on leave without pay to take care of executive order,” he said. “Everything James said because of the bill, some from employees who don’t have proper But the surge of cases themselves or others. should be under administrative leave.” employees are now being told if they PPE gear when delegates have been told in Arizona made gaming “Some employees were told if they The June 3 bill is also not retroactive don’t want to apply for family medical by division directors that the employees officials take another look were not going to be at work to use their and does not address those essential leave, they have to exhaust their sick have received PPE. at reopening at this time. annual leave, which the committee employees who were asked to use their and annual leave. She asked why Fowler was not pre- Another factor, said Parrish, thought was unreasonable,” he said. sick or annual leave in the months prior “You’re forcing them by saying, ‘if you senting to the committee. is the fact that the tribe is However, according to several dele- to June, he said. want to get paid, you need to use your “As Council, we’re painted this nice continuing to urge residents gates, the bill intended to help employees “What do we do with the Navajo leave,’” he said. picture by the executive branch di- to stay at home. has imposed further restrictions by the Nation employees who were exposed James said the miscommunications rectors, that everything is good, that Casino operators that ap- Department of Personnel Management to COVID-19 back in March, April, and and misinterpretations about the the employees are taken care of,” said peared to have had successful and created hardship for many. May?” he asked. “This legislation does personnel policies are hurting many Charles-Newton. re-openings are now taking Tso said Division of Human Resources not cover them. How do we replenish Navajo families, who are getting the She said because of all of the uncer- another look at their decision. Director Perphelia Fowler and her DPM those individuals who were forced by run-around when they should be taken tainties, many employees are afraid to For example the casinos on team were the ones that put the bill their supervisor or DPM to start using care of by their employer. return to work. the Gila River reservation together. their sick leave and annual leave, which Becenti responded that it appeared “Are you currently implementing a recently closed down tempo- “The AG and legislative counsel were in reality was supposed to be admin- that many of the employee concerns plan for opening up offices for services rarily when a casino worker told to coordinate with DPM to come up istrative leave? How do we reimburse regarding leave that were being brought that are provided to our Navajo people?” came down with the virus with this,” said Tso. those leaves?” up had not come to DPM, but those in- asked Charles-Newton. and died. Fowler did not respond to this report- To add insult to injury, Vince says dividuals that did come to DPM prior to Becenti responded that the executive Wild Horse Pass, Lone er’s request for comment and the DPM’s many employees who were exposed to June 3 were advised to use administra- branch’s “return to work policy” is Butte and Vee Quiva near COVID-19 leave policy. COVID-19 on the job have been denied tive leave prior to sick or annual leave. currently under review and will soon be Phoenix have all shut down the special duty pay because they had to She clarified that DPM has been also released by the president’s office. as cases in that area have ‘Which policy supersedes?’ quarantine at home. telling department human resources “We are being advised by our division spiked in recent weeks. “The agreement was that they have to and supervisors to use administrative directors that we will be coming back in While reopened casinos DPM Human Resources Director Tonia be at the work site in order to get hazard leave before they start using sick leave phases and that each department should have not been singled out as Becenti, who presented to delegates on pay,” he said. or annual leave. be working on a pre-occupancy plan on the cause of the spike, casino behalf of Fowler, explained while the Meanwhile, other workers who were “We always advised them to use admin how to phase employees back in,” said operators said they could not quarantine for someone who is exposed not exposed to COVID-19 were able to leave as long as this executive order is in Becenti. continue to urge people to or is positive for COVID-19 is 14 days, the draw hazard pay. place for anyone who has tested positive This will likely include plans for gamble when the chance of HEHSC bill allows for an additional week “It’s not accommodating the Navajo for COVID-19,” she said. “DPM does not tell staggered and flex scheduling and tele- catching the virus has never if the illness is prolonged, just to make Nation frontline workers,” said James. supervisors to use sick or annual leave.” commuting, especially for people with been higher. sure an employee is no longer positive. “It’s not OK.” Becenti explained that regardless of underlying health conditions. The decision to postpone However, in many cases, that is not their situation all Navajo Nation employ- “Each department should be working reopening the four Navajo enough time because many COVID-19 ill- Fear of retaliation ees should be being paid whether they on this,” she said. casinos is a costly one with nesses go far beyond the maximum 120- are working or not, essential or not, and the board’s decision to keep hour leave, said Delegate Vince James. Otto Tso said employees don’t want if they are not getting paid they need to IF YOU are an employee who would like to all workers on paid leave. Per the legislation, after 120 hours, to say anything publicly because they let DPM know immediately. share your story relating to this article, please While the enterprise if an employee has not recovered from are afraid of retaliation. He said even James indicated that there is clearly email [email protected] received reimbursement for 10 weeks of the cost to pay employees from the feder- al Payroll Protection bill, finally have a plan and can recommended six-foot social turned a call to ask if they had BIE grant schools are under employees have now been on start to prepare. distancing, only 13 students devised an implementation plan local control and will each paid leave for 19 weeks with REOPEN “I think the fact that they could be allowed in a classroom specific to their district. make their own policies for at least four more weeks in invested in equipment so all and 14 on a school bus. San Juan School District in re-opening. July before money starts FROM PAGE 1 students have equal access to “I just don’t see any feasible Utah has a little more time to The Division of Diné Educa- coming in. virtual learning is a plus,” said way that will work for us,” he get their plan together as Utah tion has come up with some Parrish said on Tuesday one teacher who asked not to told the board. schools don’t go back until Aug. guidelines for all schools on the cost of paying the sala- which may be waived for indi- be identified, as teachers have In New Mexico, by contrast, 20. According to its website, it the Navajo Nation, but acting ries of employees as well as gent families. been cautioned against talking the state department of educa- was still gathering data from an superintendent Patricia Gon- paying other bills, including Wi-Fi access will be available to the press. “If we’re going to tion has issued a detailed set online survey of staff, students nie did not return a phone call the $220 million the tribe in school parking lots and from do this, we need to be all in.” of instructions for “re-entry” and parents as of Tuesday. asking for details. loaned to the enterprise over buses that will deliver food and An hour northwest in Kay- into the school year. Schools The federally funded BIE The New Mexico guidelines the years, is now way more learning packet supplemental enta, the administration is still will divide their students into schools are not subject to state summarized the delicate task than $4 million. items. digesting results of a staff and two groups, and alternate them guidelines. A draft plan for of all the districts: “As we The good news is that ev- Teachers are expected to parent survey and pondering every day or week at the school re-opening these schools will be move toward welcoming our eryone wants the casinos to learn the Schoology learning the effect of Gov. Doug Ducey’s buildings. While one group presented at two Zoom meetings, students back to our campuses, open as soon as possible. platform and Beyond Textbooks recent postponement of the is taking regular classes, the one for tribes and one for the it is critical that all educators, The enterprise recently online curriculum to tailor les- start of the school year from other group will do distance public, on July 9 and 10, respec- family members, and communi- surveyed members of the ca- sons to their subject matter. Aug. 3 to Aug. 17. learning, then the next day or tively. Comments on the plan ty members recognize that the sino’s player’s club and found Special education teachers “We’re going to have a work week it will switch. will be taken through July 25. need for prudent and proactive them eager to see the casinos will work directly with families session July 8 and then final- All students and teachers will The draft plan, which can be measures to prevent the spread reopen. The club is made up to schedule in-person (if neces- ize things at the July 13 board be health-screened daily, and found at https://www.bia.gov/ of the virus will become more of many of the top spenders sary) or telephonic therapies, meeting,” reported district sec- teachers who are at high risk of sites/bia.gov/files/assets/as-ia/ important— not less—in order at the casinos. and “social and emotional sup- retary Christina Yazzie. “Most getting sick with the coronavi- opa/pdf/BIE%20School%20 to keep our students and com- The enterprise also sur- port” for students and families likely it will be some form of rus may opt to teach from home. Reopening%20Plan%20 munities healthy and safe.” veyed its employees, who you will be available. distance learning.” Meals will continue to be 5.28.2020%20ASIA%20revised. Information: Links to join would think are happy being Several Chinle teachers At last month’s school board provided to both in-school and pdf, allows schools to make the Zoom consultations on paid for staying home, but contacted by the Times said work session, Superintendent at-home students. their own decisions based on re- re-opening the BIE schools can they overwhelmingly said they’re not too enthusiastic Lemual Adson reported he Neither Central Consolidat- gional conditions, subject to the be found here https://www.gov- they can’t wait to return to about another quarter of online had had staff take some mea- ed School District nor Gallup approval of the regional educa- info.gov/content/pkg/FR-2020- work. learning, but are grateful they surements and, to preserve the McKinley County Schools re- tion program administrators. 06-26/pdf/2020-13819.pdf Smoke advisory due for forest fire Relief for coronavirus

WOOD SPRINGS, Ariz. – The Older adults, children, preg- over age 65, pregnant women, WINDOW ROCK – The following are relief agen- Fund at https://www.gofundme.com/f/NHF- Navajo Department of Health nant women and individuals and people with heart and/or cies in the fight to stop the spread of the corona- C19Relief and Navajo Environmental who have heart or lung diseases lung disease, asthma or other virus on the Navajo Nation. • Food Baskets for Elderly on Navajo Na- Protection Agency are issuing are higher risk of being affected respiratory illness should avoid These are places to which people can send tion-Covid19, Chinle, Ariz. a smoke advisory for the Wood from wildfire smoke. all outdoor activities. donations, contributions or other help. https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-for-el- Springs, Fluted Springs, and • If visibility is under one mile, • Navajo Nation COVID-19 Fund at http:// derly-on-navajo-nation Sawmill areas. YOUR EYES ARE YOUR BEST the air quality is unhealthy for www.nndoh.org/donate.html. You can also con- • Johns Hopkins Center for American Indian The advisory will be in TOOLS TO DETERMINE IF IT’S everyone. People should remain tact the Health Command Operations Center Health at https://secure.jhu.edu/form/jhs- effect until the wildfires are SAFE TO BE OUTSIDE: indoors and avoid all outdoor Donation Branch at 928-871-6206 or general@ phamerin controlled enough that the • If visibility is under five activities including running er- nndoj.org. • Bill Richardson Covid-19 Navajo Families risk from the fire and smoke miles, the air quality is un- rands. Unless an evacuation has The Navajo Department of Health’s COVID-19 Relief Fund at www.nmchildren.org. is reduced. The Wood Springs healthy for young children, been issued, stay inside your website at http://www.ndoh.navajo-nsn.gov/ • NB3 Foundation COVID 19 Response Fund 2 fire is generating smoke that adults over age 65, pregnant home, indoor workplace, or in a COVID-19 and the Navajo Health Command at https://www.classy.org/give/92644/#!/dona- affecting surrounding commu- women, and people with heart safe shelter. Operations Center at 928-871-7014. tion/checkout nities, especially those to the and/or lung disease, asthma • No matter how far you can • Navajo & Hopi Families COVID-19 Relief north and east, the direction or other respiratory illness. see, if you are having health the smoke is currently blowing. Outdoor activity should be effects from smoke exposure, All residents should take minimized. then take extra care to stay precautions to protect their • If visibility is under three inside or get to an area with health from the wildfire smoke. miles, young children, adults better air quality. NAVAJO TIMES THURSDAY, JULY 02, 2020 A3 Fighting the fire

NAVAJO TIMES | DONOVAN QUINTERO A helicopter flies toward a pumpkin, which holds 6,000 gallons of water, with its bucket on Sunday as it fights the Wood Springs 2 fire on Wood Springs, Ariz.

NAVAJO TIMES | DONOVAN QUINTERO Navajo Nation Rangers speak to local residents about the Wood Springs 2 fire on Monday at a roadblock.

NAVAJO TIMES | DONOVAN QUINTERO NAVAJO TIMES | DONOVAN QUINTERO Two DC-10 airplanes, converted to fight forest fires, fly by one another over the Wood Springs 2 fire in Wood A DC-10 airplane converted to fight fires releases fire retardant over the trees while fighting the Wood Springs Springs, Ariz. 2 fire on Monday. The fire has, so far, burned nearly 9,000 acres since it began on Saturday. A4 THURSDAY, JULY 02, 2020 NAVAJO TIMES LIZER Nez: Young people spreading FROM PAGE 1 was made,” said Begaye at the time. “Offers that include high-dollar amounts and do not include the involvement of the execu- tive branch are highly questionable. It’s my virus to vulnerable elders responsibility to protect the Navajo people’s money.” BY ARLYSSA BECENTI spread to the older generation.” in the Winslow Service Unit and premature. The Times article also quoted a mystery NAVAJO TIMES Tuesday night’s new COVID-19 Coconino County in general. “If we start spiking here and we attorney involved with the deal named Drew cases were the lowest they have “If we are not careful these types need special care, I’m afraid our Ryce, erroneously referred to as “the tribe’s WINDOW ROCK – President Jon- been since March, with 17 new of spikes will happen if we go off people will get turned away,” said lawyer,” who is also a former colleague of athan Nez told viewers during cases, bringing the total to 7,549. Re- into hotspots around the Navajo Nez, “because they’re dealing with Kirk. Tuesday’s Facebook town hall that coveries reported from all 12 health Nation,” said Nez. “It’s critical we their own emergencies out there. We “My office will of course investigate what data shows over 66 percent of the facilities were at 5,218. Deaths were use masks.” can lessen the rate doing what we’ve appears to be a highly irregular manner by Navajos dying of COVID-19 are at 364, up just one from the previous With the Fourth of July weekend been doing.” which this supposed investment was pur- elders, whereas younger people are day. coming up, and celebrations that Arizona continued to see a spike sued,” said Branch. the ones catching the virus and The Chinle Service Unit continued usually happen in Kayenta and Win- in coronavirus cases with Wednes- Certain Navajo Nation Council delegates at spreading it. to lead the Nation in the cumula- dow Rock canceled, Nez said a health day seeing 4,900 new cases and 88 the time, including Tom Chee and Leonard “The people who are getting the tive number of positive tests with order for a 57-hour lockdown will be deaths. The overall total of cases for Tsosie, decried the article as “fake news.” virus … (are) from 20 years old to 1,945, followed by Gallup with 1,277; implemented again and will continue the state is 79,399 with 1,645 deaths. Former Speaker LoRenzo Bates said there 60 years old,” said Nez. “Those two Shiprock with 1,212; Kayenta with for the next three weekends. On Tuesday, Utah saw 553 new was never an offer and that Controller Kirk combined is over 60 percent who are 1,073; Crownpoint with 662; Tuba Also, the Navajo Nation will ex- cases and four deaths. In total there had only been instructed to conduct due dili- contracting the virus. City with 641; Fort Defiance with tend its closure of government offic- are 22,256 confirmed cases. As for gence in considering the possibility of buying “How does that correlate with the 470; and Winslow with 265 cases. es until July 26. Nez said the Nation New Mexico there is a total of 12,147 Remington. deaths?” he asked. “Young people Mentioning the surge of cases in has a plan to get the government cases and 497 deaths. At that time, Tsosie said the president’s are getting the virus and they are and outside of the Nation, including open again, but because of what is “Wear your masks,” said Nez. office had been made aware of the discus- able to recover. But the younger Phoenix, Nez urged listeners not happening in neighboring cities “Wearing a mask shows you care for sions about the possible purchase in Sihasin generation may be the cause of the travel to hotspots. He noted a spike and states re-opening now would be yourself and others.” Fund and Investment Committee meetings and that Begaye and Nez were feigning igno- rance.

Current legislation under investigation, and the Re- source and Development Committee Three weeks ago, on June 12, the Invest- COMPLAIN is dealing with it. ment Committee approved a resolution that The Times reached out to RDC recommends a direct equity investment to FROM PAGE 1 Chair Rickie Nez and received the B&F. nothing as of press time. The Times The resolution states, “The Investment all these greenhouses go up.” also reached out to Delegate Amber Committee hereby authorizes an investment It was only supposed to be a pilot Crotty, who represents Gaadiahi. from the Navajo Nation Master Trust Fund, project, or at least that’s what Ben- She had not answered at press time. not to exceed three hundred million dollars nett understood, but the next thing ($300M) for the acquisition of the company.” she knew huge greenhouses were NMSU project Damon clarified that the investment Com- being constructed a few feet from mittee is made up of three members each her home. The only entities that appear to be from the legislative and executive branches, “I didn’t know what was going on,” responding to the situation are the including B&F Chairman Jamie Henio, B&F said Bennett. “Last year, they had Navajo Nation Department of Jus- member Jimmy Yellowhair, delegated Audi- what he called a pilot project where tice and Navajo Nation Police. tor General Helen Brown, Controller Kirk he planted stuff out there with “We started getting reports on (chair), Tax Commission Director Martin weeds combined; it was messy. This the issue that hemp fields are being Ashley and President Jonathan Nez. year, he decided to grow greenhous- NAVAJO TIMES | SHARON CHISCHILLY grown,” said Chief of Police Phillip Damon said Henio, Ashley, Yellowhair es and it stinks.” Workers run water lines in a field at a hemp operation in Shiprock last week. Francisco. and Lizer (acting as a proxy for Nez) voted to The stench of hemp is described One of the main concerns for support the proposal with Brown abstaining. to be just as potent as that of mari- for the past three years. We went to neighbor’s safety because the wom- Francisco is finding out whether Be- Damon confirmed Investment Committee juana. court. The judge denied the order an lives alone; she worries about nally is growing hemp or marijua- meetings are public meetings although they When driving on the narrow dirt of the Department of Justice or the the dogs she fosters because already na. The plants are identical except are not well publicized. road past Benally’s home, fields of attorney general. Right now we are two of them have been run over by for their levels of the psychoactive Legislation No. 0133-20, sponsored by Henio green plants can be seen on one side moving forward with our growing Benally’s fast-driving workers. component, THC. So they had the and co-sponsored by Damon, would have the of the road. On the other side rows of and production of our farms out It comes back to how Benally was plants tested. B&F Committee approve the direct equity greenhouses are being constructed here.” able to get the land to produce hemp. Anything above 0.3 percent THC is investment “in a Company set forth in (reso- in what might as well be the Ben- Benally doesn’t only have a hemp “We have water here, which was defined as marijuana and is illegal lution) NNICJU-08-20…”. nett’s and Lister’s back yard. farm growing on his property. He put up for us, the irrigation water,” on the Navajo Nation. B&F is authorized to approve direct in- Bennett is tired of the smell, and has hemp production sites scattered said Redfeather-Benally. “They tried “We sent some to the lab … legally vestments in non-public companies provided she also doesn’t like the bright grow throughout the communities of to approach me and I chased them we are at a crossroads,” explained they have a projected annual rate of return lights that shine through her win- Shiprock, Hogback, and most recent- off. They’re going around making Francisco. “No lab can actually of more than the five-year average rate of dows at night. Bennett grows alfalfa ly Gadiiahi. deals like that.” verify the threshold of hemp and return on the Nation’s Master Trust Fund, and Lister grows produce, but the These farm lands belonging to oth- She described how her elderly marijuana, so we are searching for a which was at 4.48 percent as of March 31. water from their irrigation line has ers. This is what Bennett and Lister neighbor was approached by Benal- lab that can do that, and that can be The “company” referred to in the legisla- been dismal. They blame the wells don’t understand: How is he able to ly and offered $1,000 an acre to lease accepted in court. We don’t know if tion is a “manufacturing entity with a strong Benally drills in order to claim the use these lands? his land, but he turned down the it’s marijuana or hemp.” brand,” which would apply to gun manufac- water for his hemp. “That attorney general’s order was offer and said his land was for his The only entity that is allowed to turer Remington Arms, and that due dili- “They are still getting water denied,” said Benally. “You can’t kids. Redfeather-Benally said there grow hemp on the Navajo Nation is gence was done by outside legal counsel on from our irrigation,” said Lister. just come in because these farms are other tactics Benally has taken New Mexico State University. The behalf of the controller’s office. “(I’m) trying to get my alfalfa field belong to the individual farmers and to get farmers to give up their land. tribe has given NMSU researchers However, the due diligence and negotia- cut here and I didn’t give it much the individual farmers determine Although Benally may have start- permission to grow industrial hemp tions concerning the company are covered water. It didn’t grow much. If he has what they want to grow. That’s what ed all his production three years on a small parcel of land they lease by non-disclosure agreements and are not that kind of money, why can’t he do the judge ruled on.” ago, as he said, the three farmland within the Navajo Agricultural publicly available, it states. something about the irrigation?” Pushed on this statement, board owners noticed the quick develop- Products Industry property pure- The B&F Committee met on June 23 to Trying to grow a small garden, grass member Tracy Raymond asked for ment of the greenhouses began this ly for research and development consider Legislation No. 133-20 in execu- for cattle and alfalfa is practically an opinion from the Bureau of Indi- spring, when the coronavirus hit the purposes. tive session but it was tabled in a motion by impossible when water sources are an Affairs. Nation extremely hard. In order for the university to get Delegate Amber Kanazbah Crotty in order scarce. Bennett can’t compete with the “What does the BIA stand on They believe Benally is using this the 200-square-foot plot to grow to have a work session with the Investment sheer size of Benally’s hemp produc- that?” asked Raymond. “I always time to ramp up production while hemp, it had to go through Council Committee. tion, or the money that he is putting thought the regulation in the CFR the Nation is closed until July 26. and even speak to residents. B&F delegates, including Chair Henio, did into getting the project running. that these are all trust lands. At The workers even continue their During a previous Shiprock not respond to a request for comment. “We can’t afford big equipments that point the BIA is involved in it. hemp farming during weekend Chapter meeting, Charles-Newton’s like a swather or bailer to work a The statement saying the farmland lockdowns and evening curfews, tone was different when it came to ‘Everything blew up’ whole farm so we rely on the chap- belongs to the individual farmer, is Redfeather-Benally said. NMSU’s hemp project. ter,” said Lister. that true?” She said this venture needed to be Damon verified that in 2018, the Council’s “They tell us to get back to farm- The BIA representative at the Where are the leaders? translated and explained to the Navajo Sihasin Subcommittee voted to have the con- ing,” said Bennett. “Plant good stuff meeting said he didn’t feel comfort- people before it could go any further, troller do the due diligence to consider the for your kids, for yourself, and teach able answering the question since Redfeather-Benally said she can’t and that there was no supporting Remington deal and see what options might your kids how to do this. But what this is in litigation, but said he get ahold of any of her local leaders, resolution from her chapter about this be available. is he (Benally) planting? That’s not would check on it. so she plans to start a petition to cultivation. She was one of four dele- However, after the public backlash over the what they tell us to plant.” Benally said this question will remove Benally from his farm board gates who voted no on the project. potential half-billion dollar purchase was be addressed during a future court position. As one of many concerned “I have to speak for the people,” said revealed in the news media, everything came Hemp lawsuit hearing. He apologized for not Shiprock community members she Charles-Newton at the time. “I know to a halt, he said. talking with his neighbors before said she has started posting pictures what hemp and marijuana is. If it were “Once everything blew up, everyone In the few days since the Navajo erecting the greenhouses, and said and videos of hemp workers in the just up to my vote personally alone, I backed off of the deal,” he said. “There was Nation Department of Justice filed a he will talk to one of the affected field across from her residence on probably would’ve voted green. never a follow-up after that.” lawsuit against Benally for illegally families to address their concerns. social media. “But my job is not to represent my- Damon, who was the B&F chairman at the growing, producing, manufactur- She said Delegate Eugenia self; it’s to represent the people,” she time, confirmed as far as he knew there was ing, transporting, licensing and More hemp farms Charles-Newton left a comment ex- said. “I said ‘The people have said never an offer made. selling industrial hemp within the pressing her support for Benally. nothing about this to me so I have to While Kirk had presented due diligence up- Navajo Nation, Benally has persist- Once you leave Benally’s hemp “Hemp is not illegal on the Navajo vote red.’” dates to the Sihasin and Investment commit- ed with his hemp operation. plantation, which has numerous Nation,” Charles-Newton responded Redfeather-Benally said she tees, nobody ever saw an offer, he said. The former Navajo Nation pres- Asian workers in the field, and make to an emailed list of questions sent to understands people are for hemp The New York Times refused to share a ident, vice president and congres- your way to Bea Redfeather-Benal- the speaker’s office by this reporter. production because it could bring copy of the referenced “draft (offer) letter” sional candidate currently serves ly’s (no relation) plot of land there is “A revamp of Title 17 during the 23rd economic development to the Nation, with the Navajo Times. as the San Juan River Farm Board other activity happening. Navajo Nation Council decreased the but so far Benally’s operation seems Damon said after the NYT article appeared, president, and during a June 30 A few non-Navajo workers, who THC level, and no regulations were to be employing foreign workers he asked Kirk specifically if there had been meeting he informed farm board Redfeather-Benally said are Mex- put in place regarding hemp. rather than Navajos. She also an offer made and she responded, “No, there members of a June 15 hearing in ican, are constructing a fence to “Hemp production is happening up doesn’t believe the crop is only hemp is no offer.” Shiprock regarding the lawsuit. He support a tarp in order to keep the and down the San Juan River, not just and believes marijuana is being Branch, the attorney general, got the same said the judge sided with him and he prying eyes away. in Shiprock,” she said. “Other farmers cultivated as well. answer from Kirk, he said. will continue to grow. Like Bennett and Lister, Red- have taken up production of hemp.” “People say, ‘It’s hemp, know the Nonetheless, Damon says he is fully in sup- “They also passed an order to feather-Benally is worried about the Delegates who are usually vocal difference,’” said Redfeather-Be- port of investments that can bring revenues issue a temporary restraining non-Navajo workers who are work- about the plight of their commu- nally. “I know the difference. It’s and jobs to the Nation. order to stop production and stop ing near young children, including nity members aren’t saying much easy for them to say because it’s “I think the Navajo Nation should do more growing,” said Benally during the her own. about Benally, even after numerous not in front of their residence. They direct investments that yield high returns meeting. “You, as a farm board, and She, too, is disgusted by the pun- community members complained. don’t see what we see. They don’t go on investment and get returned back to the myself know I’ve been growing this gent smell of hemp; she fears for her Charles-Newton said the situation is through what I go through.” Master Trust Fund,” he said. As stated in Legislation No. 133-20, the B&F is also committed to diversifying the Nation’s investment portfolio to include direct invest- campsite and said he needed to evacuate by about The BIA’s initial 60-acre burn estimate was ments as a means of increasing the Nation’s 1 p.m. He wasn’t about to leave his more than 160 obviously no longer correct as trees could be seen overall revenue and rate of return. SHEEPHERDER head of sheep and goats behind. lighting like match sticks one after another on Regular investments in the stock market Rangers hurriedly helped him herd them along Sunday. and bond market and real estate average 1.8 FROM PAGE 1 Navajo Route 26, which connects Chinle to Saw- On Monday morning, fire officials said the fire to 3 percent annual returns, while direct mill, Ariz. They then chased his herd south onto had burned approximately 3,000 acres. By the end investments in businesses can yield much Navajo Route 7, which connects back to State of the day, they said the fire had consumed nearly more, said Damon. early Monday morning. Highway 264. 6,000 acres. He said a good example of a profitable di- In the morning, she got news again he still was His sister and the family corralled the large The fire that originated about three miles east rect investment was when the Navajo Nation saying no to leaving. She went to him, she said. flock and began loading them into horse trailers. of Wood Springs was moving in a northeaster- casinos were created in 2008. “‘You can’t stay there,’ I told him,” she said. A small flock remained as they waited for the ly direction. It jumped Navajo Route 26 and is If there is more direct investment, it can “Then the ranger told us we needed to leave, so trailers to arrive to pick up the rest. threatening to cross Navajo Route 7. create economy for the Nation and can also we just just started herding the sheep.” Benally sat on a wood stump. He said he was As for Benally and his 160-plus sheep and goats, help make up for the loss of revenue from The family had already taken most of the flock concerned his hogan and campsite he’s been he said if the fire didn’t destroy their home, he will Navajo Generating Station, he said. away by horse trailer. One more flock of about 30 going to since 1972 may have been destroyed by return when the fire is extinguished. For now, With gun sales at an all time high during stood in a small makeshift coral. Smoke could be the fire. The area he lives in is rich with grass, they will have to wait it out in Kinlichee at his the pandemic and the bid for the “company” seen from the direction Blackmountain said her enough to sustain his flock. sister’s house. down to $300 million, time will tell if the deal brother’s summer home was. The 60 hotshots and the 10 aerial firefighters “We will see how it goes. I might have to rebuild has enough firepower. Benally said Navajo Rangers reached his were no match for Sunday’s and Monday’s winds. again if the fire took it,” Benally said. Diné Adabidiiskidí NAVAJO TIMES NATIVE LENS THURSDAY, JULY 02, 2020 A5 Wildfire in Dinétah

COURTESY PHOTO | MARSHA CARL The Woodlands 2 fire rages near Sawmill, Ariz., on Monday.

NAVAJO TIMES | DONOVAN QUINTERO COURTESY PHOTO | MARSHA CARL A man stands from atop a hill and watches a helicopter take water to use on the Wood Springs 2 fire on The Woodlands 2 fire rages near Buell Park on Monday. Sunday in Wood Springs, Ariz.

NAVAJO TIMES | DONOVAN QUINTERO A helicopter flies toward the Wood Springs Fire with water on Sunday nearly engulfed in smoke. Jó Ákót’é A6 THURSDAY, JULY 02, 2020 OPINION NAVAJO TIMES

50 YEARS AGO JACK AHASTEEN NAC seeks nonprofit EDITORIAL CARTOONIST status in federal court

BY BILL DONOVAN in the study was General Dynamics, SPECIAL TO THE TIMES which operated an electronics plant in Fort Defiance. he Navajoland chapter The Navajos have a unique ability of the Native American to do delicate work like assembling Church and its use of pey- circuit boards, company officials ote was in the news again said, pointing out that for generations in July 1970. tribal members have used these TAttorneys for the church, Ted skills to produce rugs and jewelry. Mitchell and Don Juneau, asked a As for being reliable, the company three-member federal panel to force referred to snowstorms that past the Arizona Corporation Commis- January that completely disrupted sion to allow the church to incorpo- life on the reservation. And yet, rate as a nonprofit organization. despite roads that were snowbound The previous month, the commis- and icy, the Navajo workforce had a sion had rejected the application, nearly perfect record of showing up. citing the use of peyote by its mem- And finally, the Navajo Times bers. In rejecting the application, announced that it appears there the commission pointed out that would be six men running for tribal state law prohibited use of the drug. chairman. With the primary elec- The largest branch of the Native tion ballots scheduled to go to the American Church, the 40,000-mem- printer in two days, it didn’t seem ber chapter had been fighting court likely that anyone else would be battles for more than a decade to throwing their hat into the ring. secure the right for members to use Of the six, three candidates peyote in its services. In the past appeared to have the best chance of four years, the church had been being selected for the two spots in successful in changing federal and the general election. tribal laws banning its use. Raymond Nakai, who was seeking The states, however, were a dif- his third term as tribal chairman, ferent matter. The NAC would be seemed to be a lock-in for one of fighting the states of Arizona, New those slots. Considered a hero by Mexico and Texas for another five members of the Navajoland NAC years on the issue. for his work to get the use of peyote In their filings before the feder- allowed by the federal and tribal al panel, church officials argued governments, he was expected to get that the use of the cactus plant most of their votes in the primary. was the center stone around which It seemed that Sam Billison would the entire tradition of the religion get that second slot since this was operated. In fact, if peyote were not his third attempt to become chair- allowed in church services, the en- man. A very respected educator, tire religion would have no purpose Billison basically started running LETTERS TO THE EDITOR and would not exist. the day after Nakai had his second The use of peyote was a sacrament inauguration. essential to its services. But Peter MacDonald, the former Lizer, we are watching NNVP accountable. We are a collective For the last several years, I’ve Attorneys for the state argued head of the Office of Navajo Eco- Armchair general: One who speaks society, we are watching, and we will participated in a VITA program every that peyote, like marijuana, was a nomic Opportunity, seemed to be authoritatively on topics one actually continue to voice our concerns. tax season for my employer. The VITA hallucinogenic drug, which serves the wild card. He had been praised knows little about. Deidra Williams Angulo program is a service initiated by the no purpose other than to get the for his speech-making ability in I am writing in response to the Steamboat, Ariz. IRS. user high. both Navajo and English. Navajo Nation vice president Lizer’s With the help of the IRS, volunteers The suit claimed the state’s posi- The other three candidates interview with the Navajo Times today The next pandemic: alcohol are trained, obtain certification and tion violated the Civil Rights Act seemed to be long shots in making it (June 25). I am writing as a Navajo/ the link to the IRS TaxSlayer software. and the 1st, 4th and 14th amend- to the general election. Diné woman and granddaughter of It looks like another pandemic is Volunteers then prepare and process ments of the Constitution. The most well known of the three the late Paul Williams Sr. (Steamboat looming around the corner on the Nav- federal and state tax returns for cli- As for the importance of the was Donald Dodge, who resigned Chapter). ajo Reservation. This time its location ents. And the greatest thing about the lawsuit, getting incorporated as a his position with the Bureau of In- Shinálí hastiin was a life-long politi- is in our backyard. service: the service is free. nonprofit organization was essen- dian Affairs to run. He had the best cian who served on tribal council and The Dollar Store in the St. Michaels This is an incredible service for tial to the financial wellbeing of the pedigree of the six. as chapter president for the communi- area has submitted a request for a the community I work for. Over the church. Now that it was protected That left Frank Eriacho and Joe ty of Steamboat, Arizona. liquor license for liquor to be sold from last several years, our little office has under federal law, the church was Watson Jr. Eriacho, the former head Shinálí was respectful and cared for their store. Just like the Bilagáanas, processed thousands of tax returns for going after grants and donations of the ONEO alcoholism program, the needs of his constituents. He was give them an inch and they take a community members and community and needed to be a nonprofit so that was well known on the reservation knowledgeable about many things yet mile. employees. And our VITA service con- people who donated could write it but few knew his positions on the he consulted with elders and hataałi Obviously they are not familiar with tinues to grow each year both in the off on their taxes. issues. The same could be said of about what makes a good leader. the history of alcohol beverages in this number of tax returns that we process In other news that week, a study Watson, who stepped down as head Shinálí focused on clean politics, area. It will be a pandemic. People will and the amount of tax refunds clients was released that should have of tribal operations for the BIA in transparency, and k’e. He listened to die, families will be destroyed, jobs get, with no fees assessed to the client. changed a lot of misconceptions Fort Defiance. the people. He was an advocate and he will be lost, children will be exposed, Last year, our office transmitted over about the work ethic of Navajos. The odd thing about Watson was was persistent in the role he played in and health issues will increase. 2,000 tax returns and over $3 million The study, done by the Workforce that up to two weeks prior, he had the U.S. Supreme Court landmark case I would like to say, “Yeah, let’s have in refunds. Commission, pointed out that a decided not to run but his candida- involving tribal sovereignty (Williams another way to socialize and have By providing this service, the com- lot of people, as well as heads of cy was pushed by Dick Hardwick, v. Lee, 1959). fun.” munity is saving its community mem- manufacturing companies, did not editor of the Navajo Times. Shinálí listened to his community The reality is Native tribes have bers hundreds of dollars in servicing believe the Native lifestyle produced There were rumors that Eriacho members and accepted constructive yet to figure out why alcohol is still a fees that a paid preparer charges. Even efficient workers in manufacturing and Watson were stoolies for Nakai criticism by all. Guess what? He did problem since its introduction to them. at a $100 fee per client, that’s a savings plants. The results of the study con- who urged them to run in the hopes not engage in name-calling or refer I would like to say, “It’s OK because we of $200,000. This is more money in the tradicted those views. of taking votes away from MacDon- to community members as “armchair have a cure now.” There is no cure and pocket of the VITA clients. Company officials interviewed in ald and put Billison into the general generals” and he didn’t deflect when no new way of socializing. There is The interested entity does need to the study reported that their Native election. Having defeated Billison asked important questions about his only destruction. provide a few things like volunteers, workers were among the most effi- twice before, Nakai probably felt personal agenda or political alliances. This situation is similar to the denial computers, Internet service and space. cient as well as being the most reli- Billison would pose no threat to Most importantly, shinálí did not going on now with the pandemic. We But with the training and software, able. One of the companies profiled him in the general election. engage in gaslighting or in the manip- can’t convince people to keep safe by the volunteers can quickly process ulation of the truth. Yes, the initial wearing your mask, social distancing, tax returns. New entities may need a outrage was sparked by Navajo Nation stay home, wash hands, or you could little training on how to move the tax vice president’s attendance at a Trump die. How many more people have to die return from prepared, quality review, campaign rally and his disregard for for people to wake up? transmittal, and record keeping, but that the tax returns can be prepared, revenue neutral, and fair approach COVID-19 pandemic safety protocols. Same question to traders and con- that gets quickly accomplished. transmitted and printed. that reduces carbon pollution as it The reality is that the vice president sumers of alcohol. The only thing that Now, it is true that this service is al- Just a thought to the leaders of the spurs innovation, creates new jobs, sends a contradictory message to our seems to work to sober up people is the ready being provided within the Nava- Navajo Nation. and protects America’s most vulner- cheíís and másánís, who have been spiritual way of living, which is not jo Nation, but not up to its full poten- Mark C. Graham able people with the dividend. It has told they can’t attend gatherings, they easy. The most difficult is to surrender tial. If the Navajo Nation government Gilbert, Ariz. 81 co-sponsors and growing public can’t attend ceremonies, and they can’t to a power greater than yourself. This and the respective enterprises pooled support nationwide. interact with family or friends. The kind of surrender is not weakness; it is together, this series could be provided Put a price on carbon pollution It works by setting a small and stead- vice president can continue to justify strength and love of oneself, and that around the Navajo Nation and save the ily increasing fee paid on the carbon his actions but it is not acceptable to is a whole story in itself. Diné thousands of dollars. As we mourn losses of family and contained in fossil fuels at or near the engage in such negative behaviors, The idea of a Dollar Store is good; So I put it out there to the Navajo community members, livelihoods, and mine, well, or U.S. border and returns blaming and name-calling. it’s progress to see these stores in our Nation government, from legislative to our ability to gather due to COVID-19, the collected fees in equal shares to The Navajo Nation vice president communities. Keep it that way. Alco- executive: Help your constituents out we face another silent threat to our people as monthly dividends. Most needs to remember the Navajo/Diné hol doesn’t work for us and we can do by working to provide this service on future — a warming, drying climate. low- to middle-income families will get people voted for President Jonathan without it. the Navajo Nation. Save the people’s On Tuesday, Flagstaff City Council more back in dividends than they’ll Nez and not Lizer’s personal Republi- Sharon Manuelito money so that more of life’s necessities joined Tuba City, Cameron and Tolani pay in increased energy costs. can or business agenda. Window Rock, Ariz. like food and gas can be purchased by Lake chapters to endorse The Energy Find out more and join the Arizona I am speaking on behalf of a number your constituents. Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act leaders urging Congress to price car- of Navajo/Diné elders who have con- Provide free tax help to Navajos With the ending of the 2019 tax sea- (HR 763) — national legislation that bon pollution at citizensclimatelobby. tacted me with this sentiment: “Lizer son, there is a short turnaround this will combat climate change by putting org. can vote however he wants in his own I am again relaying this message year for the 2020 tax season. Planning a price on the carbon pollution that Shawn Newell booth, but for now he represents the to the Navajo Nation government. It’s needs to start now, recruitment of drives it. Flagstaff, Ariz. majority … the Navajo/Diné people really time for the Navajo Nation to volunteers, space for tax preparation Worldwide, climate scientists and and his constituents.” provide an IRS Volunteer Income Tax needs to be secured and equipment economists agree that pricing carbon I believe it is important for the Assistance program to the Navajo like computer, printers and copiers pollution must be a part of solving SEE LETTERS CONT’D | A7 Navajo/Diné community to hold the people. need to be purchased or found so climate change. HR 763 is a bipartisan,

Tom Arviso Jr. - CEO/Publisher LETTER POLICY “NAVAJO TIMES PUBLICATION CO INC” (USPS 375-040) is published Olivia Benally �����������������������������������������������������������������������Controller Readers may submit opinions and weekly on Thursday by the Navajo Times Olson Patterson ���������������������������������������Production Manager statements about any news story or on any at the Junction of Highway 264 and Route Navajo Times other subject. Length should be about 600 12, Window Rock, AZ 86515-9998. Navajo Times ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������Editor Duane Beyal words, although letters of any length are Vernon Yazzie ���������������������������������������������Advertising Manager accepted, and all are subject to editing. 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SIMMONS GUEST COLUMN recognition as a federal tribe in 2007. to have it revert back to the tribe later Interior that it would not revoke the Its postage-stamp-size reservation is if the tribe ultimately won in court. trust status of the land until their con- he rule of law is often invoked 320 acres. The tribe also argued that the irrepa- troversy had been resolved in court. as a rallying cry for justice. federal district court in the District of Bernhardt is the defendant in the rable harm to its cultural and commu- “Then,” the judge says, “on March John Adams, the second U.S. Columbia. Judge Friedman grew up a case. Bernhardt’s full name is David nity connections was so fundamental 27, the Secretary went back on his president, said that a repub- New Yorker and was appointed to the Bernhardt. He is the Secretary of the that it could not even be calculated in word to the Tribe in contravention of lic should be a “government bench by President Clinton. One of his Interior. And one of the subdivisions of terms of money. the Department’s own practice of not Tof laws, not of men.” This idea – that notable cases involves the supervision that Department – as readers are well These are the sorts of “irreparable taking such action while litigation is no one is above the law – has shaped of John Hinckley, the man who tried aware – is the BIA (the Bureau of India harms” necessary to sustain an award pending.” Apparently, the Secretary American history. to assassinate President Reagan. Over Affairs). of injunctive relief. The BIA countered directed the BIA to rescind its trust But laws have no agency of their the years, Judge Friedman has relaxed The BIA’s website claims: “The BIA that the tribe’s characterizations of land determination for the tribe. Wise- own. They’re tools made of text. In the the restrictions over Hinckley as has changed dramatically over the the repercussions of taking its land out ly, the tribe immediately filed a motion hands of the selfish or the dishonest, Hinckley’s mental condition improved. past 185 years, evolving as Federal of trust status were overstated. Judge for an injunction with the court. they can be turned to unjust ends as Last year, Judge Friedman delivered policies designed to subjugate and as- Friedman was having none of it. He This sort of double-speak is incon- easily as a knife in the hands of an a lecture in Washington, D.C. In the similate American Indians and Alaska issued the injunction requested by the sistent with the idea of government aggressor. lecture, he noted a diminishing faith Natives have changed to policies that Mashpee Wampanoag. agencies bound by the rule of law. Too many times in American histo- in the rule of law. He said it was a promote Indian self-determination.” The tribe won a tactical victory. Judge Friedman’s ruling was based on ry, miscreants have wielded the law to “trend we’re seeing throughout public But in March, the BIA notified the There is more legal wrangling which a unnecessarily complex body of law disenfranchise Indians. No sooner did life.” He said the trend violated demo- Mashpee Wampanoag that it was be- will follow. But it is Judge Friedman’s involving the definition of “Indian” the first Europeans arrive in spotted cratic norms. He called it a destructive ginning the process of taking its land tone in his opinion that is truly inspir- in the Indian Reorganization Act (the settlements along the East Coast than narrative. out of trust, rescinding its reservation ing. IRA). It wasn’t based on the troubling they commenced making grossly un- The decision Judge Friedman issued status, and annulling its gaming eligi- The Mashpee Wampanoag did not double-speak of the agency. fair contracts with Native Americans, last month was in a case captioned bility. So much for promoting Indian win because they were Indians. They Still, when the rule of law prevails insisting on their rigorous enforce- “Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe versus self-determination. didn’t win because they were sympa- in a way that is consistent with just ment. This was followed by volumes of Bernhardt.” The Mashpee Wampano- The tribe promptly sued for an in- thetic. They didn’t win because the outcomes and rights of self-determi- treaties, which were not so vigorously ag Tribe was the plaintiff. It has lived junction to put a halt to the BIA’s deci- BIA was unsympathetic, either. They nation, there’s good reason to praise enforced. in what today we call Massachusetts sion. The tribe maintained that taking won because the judge applied the law it. For those reasons, this is a decision Within this context, it’s tricky for for about 12,000 years. It’s sometimes property out of trust would result in and insisted that the BIA adhere to worth celebrating. a non-Indian lawyer like myself to called the People of the First Light. It a loss of sovereignty over the land, its it. The BIA’s decision was not simply preach the benefits of the rule of law. has 2,700 members. inability to exercise self-governance, wrong, it was “arbitrary, capricious, THOMAS E. SIMMONS is a professor at Too often, the law has been a ruse to These 2,700 tribal members are the loss of its eligibility for federal and contrary to law.” the University of South Dakota School of trick, to cheat, and to steal. But occa- familiar with the glacial patience programs (such as COVID relief), and The opening paragraphs of the Law. He co-teaches a clinical course on tribal sionally at least, it shows itself in its required to navigate a legal battle. liability for back taxes. It could also judge’s 10-page decision set the tone. In wills and estate planning involving Indian proper light. The Mashpee Wampanoag remained jeopardize its low-income housing it, Judge Friedman explains how the trust land. His views are his own and not the In mid-June, 76-year-old Judge Paul steadfast in a process which took more projects and harm third parties who Mashpee Wampanoag tribal chairman views of the University of South Dakota, its Friedman issued a decision from the than three decades in order to regain purchased the foreclosed-on land only was promised by the Department of administrators, or its Board of Regents. Moving toward wellness during COVID-19 BY ANTHONY FLEG GUEST COLUMN the unique opportunities this moment to increase movement in Indigenous puncture Project, A&M Wellness, Doña has created, including reaching new communities during COVID. Ana County Health and Human Ser- ovement and wellness populations (e.g., adults now working There are plans for monthly “working vices, Comagine Health, and Veterans is a challenge for all of by the Native Health Initiative and its from home) and connecting across sessions” by Zoom where groups can Administration Behavioral Health. us as we work under the Running Medicine program. programs, communities and tribes. brainstorm together, and all are wel- And fitness groups iRunFar.com, stress of a pandemic. Six organizations from Utah, South Da- I, director of Running Medicine come to join – contact runningmedicine- The Native Runner, Native Women Our own wellness, and kota, New Mexico and Colorado shared director and moderator for the work- [email protected] for more information. Running, Wings of America and Run- Mwellness in our larger communities, their unique strategies toward keeping shop, reminded everyone of the new Tribes and organizations represent- ning Medicine. becomes a challenge as we put out people moving during the pandemic. rules that COVID-19 has introduced. ed in this workshop include Laguna, And education and youth: South- fires of COVID-19, here on the Navajo “It was inspirational to see how Before, all of us would simply think Taos, Zuni, San Felipe, Santa Ana, western Indian Polytechnic Institute, Nation and beyond. creative our brothers and sisters have about how to get people moving. Now, Picuris, Cochiti, Ute Mountain, Navajo Institute of American Indian Arts, A group of diverse organizations that gotten in this moment that forces us we start with looking at where our and Pine Ridge Reservation. Native American Community Acade- included tribes, health and fitness orga- to think in new ways about wellness,” community is at, what is safe. Only And Phoenix Children’s Hospital, my, Bernalillo Public Schools, Teach nizations and groups focusing on edu- says Rod Lansing, Diné, a long-time then can we move to the next step of Tuba City Regional Healthcare Corp., for America, Zuni Youth Empowerment cation and youth gathered virtually on leader and volunteer with NHI who creating opportunities for movement beWellnm, UNM Pediatrics, Thunder Project, Luna County Parents as Teach- June 26 to work together on how to keep serves as an associate director for and wellness that will keep partici- Valley CDC (Pine Ridge), Indian Health ers and St. Joseph Mission School. Indigenous communities exercising. Running Medicine. pants and their families safe. Service Health Promotion, New Mexico The workshop, “Moving Toward In a breakout session during the This workshop is just the begin- Department of Health, Urban Indian ANTHONY FLEG is director of the Native Wellness During COVID,” was hosted workshop, participants talked about ning of our work to support efforts Center of Salt Lake City, Native Acu- Health Initiative’s Running Medicine program.

POLICE REPORT Still looking for Laverda

ALBUQUERQUE – The FBI ‘Anyone who disappears tinue to seek the public's help “Laverda was everything The FBI is offering a reward and Navajo Nation Division of for any information that would to our family: a daughter, a of up to $10,000 for information Public Safety are marking the often leaves behind be helpful to us." mother, a sister, and an aunt leading to the identification, 18th anniversary of the disap- A statement provided by the who was such a compassionate, arrest, and conviction of the pearance of a Native American loved ones who will never family reads: “As her family, selfless, and caring person. person or persons responsible woman by distributing a poster we are sending out this sin- She was the glue that kept and for Laverda Sorrell’s disappear- on her case in the Navajo lan- stop looking for them, and cere plea to the public to help brought our family together ance. guage and reminding the public that’s the case with Laverda.’ us as we have not given up on because of her tender, gentle, Anyone with information on of a reward of up to $10,000. our search to find Laverda. No and loving grace. If you have Laverda Sorrell’s disappear- Laverda Sorrell, of Navajo, matter the outcome, we are de- any information that might be ance is asked to call the FBI at New Mexico, was last seen by who will never stop looking for termined to bring her home and helpful, we implore you to con- 505-889-1300 or send informa- her husband, according to a them, and that’s the case with find closure for our family. tact the FBI immediately.” tion online at tips.fbi.gov statement he provided to au- Laverda,” James Langenberg, thorities. special agent in charge of the He said he dropped her off at Albuquerque FBI Division, 11:30 pm on July 4, 2002, at the said. “The FBI is committed to Window Rock School District providing answers for her fam- No. 8 in Fort Defiance where ily and we will not stop looking she worked. for her, either.” A family member reported Jesse Delmar, executive her missing to the Navajo Na- director of the Navajo Nation tion Police on July 8, 2002. Division of Public Safety, said, “Anyone who disappears "We are very committed to Laverda Sorrell often leaves behind loved ones resolving this case and we con-

County sheriff’s report, lia, and misconduct involving a of Joseph Clyde Taylor, 29. June 21-27 weapon. They were jailed at the On Aug. 5, 2018, Taylor was Navajo County Sheriff’s Office stabbed in Whiteriver, Arizona, HOLBROOK – The Navajo Jail. at around 5:45 p.m. County Sheriff’s Office reports Winslow area (sub) Taylor was taken to a hospi- the following activity from Jue On June 24, Ricky Ben, 26, tal, where he was pronounced 21 through 27. of Blue Gap, Arizona, was dead. Holbrook area (sub) arrested for driving under the The FBI is now offering a On June 21, Andrew Michael influence of alcohol (above .08). reward of up to $5,000 for in- Schlechty, 31, of Winslow, He was booked into the Navajo formation leading to the arrest was arrested in Holbrook for County Sheriff’s Office Jail. and conviction of those respon- a misdemeanor warrant and sible for his murder. misconduct involving a weap- FBI, White Mountain Anyone with information is on. Andrew was booked into the asked to call the FBI at 623-466- Navajo County Sheriff’s Office police seek help with 1999. Tips can also be reported Jail. stabbing murder to tips.fbi.gov On June 22, Jonathan Tsosie, PHOENIX – The FBI and White The seeking information 34, of Ganado, and Sharon Os- Mountain Apache Tribe police poster can be found here, along key, 29, of Ganado, were arrest- are seeking the public’s assis- with a photo of the victim: ed for possession of marijuana, tance to identify the individu- https://www.fbi.gov/wanted/ possession of drug parapherna- al/s responsible for the murder seeking-info/joseph-clyde-taylor

LETTERS CONT’D

FROM PAGE 6 are pushing to approve the lower basin use. LPP construc- controversial LPP before Presi- tion and operation would also dent Trump may leave office in harm public lands and wildlife Challenge Lake January. on the Arizona Strip. Arizona Powell Pipeline Washington County, Utah, must issue state and county Arizona should challenge the where I live, would receive the permits for the LPP to be built. Lake Powell Pipeline because LPP water and it uses an av- Arizona should not grant it could stop this unnecessary, erage of 302 gallons per capita these LPP permits because the wasteful, expensive, and de- day. In contrast, Phoenix uses LPP may violate the compact, structive boondoggle. 111 and Tucson 122 gallons per conservation alternatives were As you know, Arizona heavily capita day. The BOR recently ignored, and its own water de- relies on Colorado River water, released its biased LPP envi- liveries are being cut back. The and, due to the drought con- ronmental statement that failed BOR’s inadequate LPP environ- tingency plan, some deliveries to analyze any water conserva- mental statement should not be have been reduced and caused tion alternatives. used to allow Trump to approve economic hardship. Despite this The LPP may violate the Colo- t he L PP. new reality, Utah politicians rado River Compact by trans- Richard Spotts and the Bureau of Reclamation ferring upper basin water for a St. George, Utah A8 THURSDAY, JULY 02, 2020 NAVAJO TIMES Navajo couple takes to nomadic ‘van life’

BY PAULY DENETCLAW NAVAJO TIMES

GALLUP — Nearly every week- end for eight years, Chantal Wadsworth and her partner Vernan Kee went on adventures in the wilderness to hike and camp around California. They loved being away from the hus- tle and bustle of the place they called home for eight years, San Diego. “A lot of the times we found ourselves going out towards mountains or the desert travel- ing like two hours every week- end just to get out there and have some room to walk around and hike with our dogs,” Wad- sworth said. “We just wanted to be outdoors all the time. Being in an apartment or having a home, it really didn't satisfy us that much anymore.” Their love for the outdoors eventually led them to an un- expected lifestyle that has been popularized through social media known as “van life.” The couple chooses to spend their time outdoors and living in their white van that they built out to create a living space. They also recently bought a travel trailer to attach to their van for added space. “We just go around in our van with all of our dogs and this is basically what we call home,” Wadsworth said. “We live inside this van all the time and we just travel around the United States.” Well… they used to travel until COVID-19 hit the rez. For the past two years, they moved from San Diego back to Sanos- COURTESY PHOTO COURTESY PHOTO tee, New Mexico, to start a van Vernan Kee and Chantal Wadsworth moved out of their apartment in San Diego into a van so they could Van life has been popularized over the last couple years through social life. explore their homelands. They’ve been living van life for almost two years now. media. It’s been a great lifestyle for Chantal Wadsworth and Vernan As the states began to issue Kee who love being outdoors with their six dogs. shelter-in-place orders, the were able to get back onto the So her grandmother stays in order to get some supplies,” she couple was visiting San Diego. reservation.” her home and the couple stays said. whole families contracting and re-homed eight of them. Six of As with the rest of the coun- They’ve been here on the rez in their van close by. Social distancing wasn’t battling COVID-19. This scared them were puppies. try, Wadsworth didn’t know ever since and haven’t left to “It was pretty scary,” Wad- difficult for the couple as they her most. The couple still has six res- what was going to happen. go anywhere because they’re sworth said. spent nearly all last summer up “It's not worth it to go out and cued rez dogs — Bruce, Harley, The couple was worried they worried for the safety of Wad- However, the van did come in in the Chuska Mountains with travel or try to visit any other Koba, Sandy, Bear Bear and might not be able to leave sworth’s grandmother. handy when going into town for just their dogs for company. places,” she said. Dusty. California if they didn’t go “We really don't want to go supplies during the shortage of “Being alone and not around The days of Wadsworth and Before the pandemic, the right away. anywhere because my grand- everything from disinfectant to people, that that didn't really Kee traveling all over the rez couple enjoyed volunteering “We literally just packed mother, we're with her on the meat to toilet paper. The couple affect us so much but it was just from the Valley of the Gods to and picked different projects everything up,” she remem- rez,” she said. “We're really would stay in an RV park in being in the middle of a hotspot, Bisti Badlands back up to the to do including litter cleanups. bered. “We left California. We afraid for her and we're the Farmington the night before which was the Navajo Nation, Chuska Mountains are long Since COVID-19 hit the Navajo came straight back to the rez. ones that are going to town and and be at the store before it that I think that was more con- gone now. Nation, they’ve been volun- And then once we got here, we bringing the supplies back. We even opened. cerning than anything else,” Wadsworth reminisced about teering to help organizations did the two-week quarantine, really didn't want to put her in “It was kind of like you have Wadsworth said. last summer when they cared distribute food and supplies to of course, and then finally we harm's way.” to be there at the right time in She was hearing stories about for 14 dogs they rescued and the community. NAVAJO TIMES THURSDAY, JULY 02, 2020 A9 Water out of thin air? That’s the idea behind new system

BY KRISTA ALLEN SPECIAL TO THE TIMES

GREY MOUNTAIN, ARIZ. – The taste of the water brought back memories from his childhood, when he would go hunting with his grandfather in the moun- tains, said Na’ní’á Hasani Chap- ter President Milton Tso. The water Tso drank was cre- ated from the sun and the air – sháńdíín and níłchi. It was pro- duced by SOURCE, an off-grid, self-contained “hydropanel” designed by Zero Mass Water, a Scottsdale-based company. It literally pulls clean drink- ing water from the air. “It sounds crazy when you say that you can make water out of the air with no power and no water source,” said Colin Goddard, director of market de- velopment for Zero Mass Water. “People really need to see it for themselves.” Tso and LeChee Chapter President Jerry Williams were two of the handful of chap- ter leaders who responded to Goddard’s email two months ago, when he asked if residents were interested in a standard residential SOURCE at their homes. “I sent out an email to every single chapter I could find on the (Navajo Chapters) website and talked to partners that we have and any former colleagues –– we just wanted to introduce to them what we do,” Goddard explained. “And as a result, we have these pilot projects with half a dozen chapters, and we are hoping to learn more and continue to learn from them and understand if this technol- ogy can be beneficial.” SPECIAL TO THE TIMES | KRISTA ALLEN Each of the SOURCE hydropanels connects to the Zero Mass Water Network Operations Center in the Valley. Data returns from each hydropanel to the operations center, which resolves Meet the technology any alerts remotely or deploys the field service team if needed. Goddard said a standard Goddard said he and his residential SOURCE array is team are hoping to install a few made up of two hydropanels: more SOURCE arrays in the one primary and one addition- New Mexico side of the Navajo al designed to meeting one’s Nation over the next several drinking needs. A standard weeks. array averages 1-2 gallons each “When the COVID-19 pan- day or eight to 20, 16.9-ounce demic really broke out, I started standard water bottles, depend- to read so much about the chal- ing on sunshine and humidity. lenges specifically to the Navajo Each hydropanel holds about Nation and its ‘highest (COVID) 7.9 gallons in a reservoir where rates in the country,’” said God- it is mineralized with calcium dard, who joined the Zero Mass and magnesium for optimal Water team two years ago after taste, and kept clean. Standard spending at least a decade as a arrays have 15.9 gallons of wa- gun safety advocate in Wash- ter storage capacity. SOURCE ington, D.C., following the April utilizes solar power and a small 16, 2007, massacre at Virginia battery to enable water produc- Tech University, where he was tion when the sun shines and in his French class when a water delivery on cloudy days classmate opened fire. SPECIAL TO THE TIMES | KRISTA ALLEN or at night. “It kind of shined a light on Zero Mass Water’s SOURCE hydropanel sits outside a family’s house Each SOURCE hydropanel what was already a challenging near the Grand Canyon in Route 64 in Gray Mountain, Ariz., where the operates with some noise and water situation,” he said. “And arrays are producing clean drinking water. SPECIAL TO THE TIMES | KRISTA ALLEN each connects to the Zero Mass we thought, ‘OK, we’ve got to A water line from the SOURCE hydropanels run to wherever the Water Network Operations Cen- really focus on this more holis- “I understand we’re engaging “This is something that we homeowner needs tap water. For instance, near the kitchen for cooking ter in the Phoenix area. tically and engage.’” on an issue that COVID has really need to look at it and it’s and cleaning. “The noise that you hear is Goddard said Zero Mass shined a spotlight on, but this is something that we need to pur- the solar photovoltaic panel Water started five years ago in a multigenerational challenge sue,” Williams said, “because on is, How can we ensure that quite an emotional experience in the middle that’s powering a desert not too far from Diné within the community. So, we once these are installed, one of what people are drinking and to have a clean water tap in a fan that’s pulling in air all Bikéyah. The Zero Mass Water want to understand what has the (homeowners) said she gets cooking with is clean and safe their house for the first time – around the panels inside of the founder and CEO wanted to been working. Can something water every day.” and resilient and available for in their whole life,” Goddard hydropanel,” Goddard said. look at one of the big challenges like this technology be helpful? Goddard said SOURCE water that?” he said. added. “The whole system is “And then when the air en- facing humanity: clean water What role could it play? We’re is only for human consumption The SOURCE arrays are cur- self-powered, there’s no power ters the hydropanel, it passes access, and to find a solution in really excited about the recep- and for cooking, not for live- rently designed to last 15 years. cord running to any diesel gen- over this special material that the same way that cell phones tion that we got so far, from stock or irrigation. Zero Mass Water scientists and erator. It’s all powered by the we’ve developed that acts like a have revolutionized commu- these families and some of the “We believe that access to engineers are currently work- sun naturally. sponge and it absorbs the natu- nication and leapfrogged old chapter leaders who we spoke clean drinking water is a fun- ing on new technology to extend “These systems that we’re ral humidity in the air. systems in remote areas. to.” damental human right and we the life of a SOURCE array. The putting in people’s homes are Then the air is heated to a “Solar panels have done the Jerry Williams said he’s know that there are so many only required maintenance is going to be providing water for high temperature using high-ef- same thing for energy and looked at the SOURCE arrays families on the Navajo Nation changing the air filter and the the next 15 years,” he said. “All ficiency solar-thermal. This is leapfrogged centralized elec- and saw how they work and and across the globe that need a water filter every year. The you need is air and sunlight, kind of like the condensation tricity generation,” Goddard came to the conclusion that this lot of different water supply for mineral cartridge needs to be which the Navajo Nation has of water vapor as it touches a said, “and do the same thing for could help Diné who live off the different things,” he said. replaced every five years. a lot of. We can make water colder surface. water.” grid. “The work that we’re focused “For the families, this is anywhere.” “When you take a hot shower, you see all the condensation on the (mirror and the window) because the air is hot, causing condensation,” he said. “That’s how we create liquid drinking water from the moisture in the air. “And that water –– condensa- tion is one of the best ways to start with a good clean water — so when that starts to collect, we constantly recirculate the water and have an onboard ozone system to make sure the water stays clean. So, these are storage tanks that clean themselves powered by the sun. And then we run the water line to wherever the homeowner wants.”

Water lines to homes Zero Mass Water recently installed standard residen- tial SOURCE arrays in not only Grey Mountain, but also in Piñon, LeChee, Coalmine Canyon, St. Michaels, and at some Diné residencies along U.S. Route 89 as a result of a $100,000 “Unreasonable Grant” that Zero Mass Water applied for and received. “That’s how we’ve been able to fund these first projects en- tirely at no cost to the chapters or to the homeowners directly,” Goddard said. “The small grant that we got, I think it’s helped put something in the ground that people can come see. Hope- fully from there, that can spark conversations … (for) other innovative, collaborative ways we can work together with local leaders.” A10 THURSDAY, JULY 02, 2020 NAVAJO TIMES Officer Lee, first to fall to virus, laid to rest

BY DONOVAN QUINTERO 1990. NAVAJO TIMES During his 29 years of police service, Lee worked as a Sex CHINLE — The final radio call Offender Registration and Noti- was given out for Navajo Nation fication Act, or SORNA, officer, Senior Police Officer Michael and worked in Window Rock for Lee on Thursday during his seven years at the beginning of burial service. his law enforcement career. He Lee died on June 19 at the served the Chinle community Banner University Medical until his death. Center in Phoenix. Mostly, Lee was remembered Dozens of Navajo Nation Po- for his work with the Toys- lice officers, including retired 4Tots program, which he was officers, attended the 29-year involved with for more than 20 police veteran’s service that years. was held at the Potter’s House Fellow Toys4Tots Coordina- Christian Church in Chinle. tor Jaye Tom, who handles the Due to the COVID-19 pandem- Lukachukai area, said the pro- ic, only immediate family were gram has “huge shoes” to fill. allowed into the church. It was “He was known for what live-streamed on the Navajo Na- he did for the children in the tion Police’s social media page. Chinle Police District,” Tom Retired Navajo Police Sgt. remembered on Thursday, who Dave Frank waited outside the church for the procession to the ‘He was cemetery to begin. He said he more of got to know Lee when they went everything to us, especially to dive school together. “He was my friend, diving on the diving team. I’m going teammate,” Frank said. “I didn’t believe it when heard to miss him dearly.’ about his death. It stayed with me for quite some time.” worked with Lee for 10 years in Frank said they trained in the Toys4Tots program. Honduras. After they completed He and his family used go to their training, they patrolled to California every year to get the Chinle District and when the toys, he said. they were needed at one of the Tom, who was a school board five lakes within their jurisdic- member at Lukachukai Com- tion, they grabbed their scuba munity School, didn’t know gear and went to work. exactly how many children, but NAVAJO TIMES | DONOVAN QUINTERO “He was more of everything for his area, he said he works The Navajo Nation Police honor guard carries the casket of Senior Police Officer Michael Lee during his funeral last Thursday. to us, especially on the diving with about 400 kids. team,” he said. “I’m going to “He had a lot of dedication. miss him dearly.” The Navajo Police Depart- Navajo Nation Police Chief ment sometimes didn’t have Phillip Francisco, who was in overtime, but he would still attendance, said the depart- go out,” Tom said. “His whole ment was “devastated and family would be out there for heartbroken.” two weeks before Christmas Francisco handed the flag wrapping presents and getting that was draped over Lee’s everything together. He just casket to his wife after a folding made itinerary interesting and ceremony was conducted at more fun.” a family cemetery plot in Del Another Navajo Nation Police Muerto, Arizona, which is Officer lost her battle with the about five miles east of Chinle. virus. “It is with great sorrow that Criminal Investigator Esther the Navajo Police Department Charley died at a hospital in announces the passing of Tucson on June 20, according to Officer Michael Lee,” Fran- a Navajo Police news release. cisco said. “Officer Lee was a “We extend our deepest con- husband, a father, a son and a dolences and heartfelt sympa- protector of his community.” thy to the family, friends, and NAVAJO TIMES | DONOVAN QUINTERO Lee graduated from the Nava- colleagues of Senior Criminal NAVAJO TIMES | DONOVAN QUINTERO The Navajo Nation Police honor guard gets ready to fold the flag that jo Law Enforcement Academy Investigator Esther Charley,” The Navajo Nation Police honor guard carries the casket of Senior Police was draped over the casket of Senior Police Officer Michael Lee during in Toyei, Arizona, in October the police statement said. Officer Michael Lee during his funeral last Thursday. his funeral last Thursday. NAVAJO TIMES THURSDAY, JULY 02, 2020 A11

Riders in a row

A family rides their horses over State Highway 264 on Sunday evening in Ganado. NAVAJO TIMES | DONOVAN QUINTERO

OBITUARIES

Chenoa Billy Andy Willie ST. MICHAELS, ARIZ. — GALLUP — Graveside service for Andy Willie, Graveside service for 64, of Brimhall, New Mexico, will be held Thurs- Chenoa Billy, 28, of St. Mi- day, July 2, at 1 p.m. at Rollie Mortuary in Gal- chaels, Arizona, was held lup, with Seth Yates officiating. Burial will follow July 1 at the St. Michaels at the family land in Brimhall. Catholic Mission Church. Andy was born Sept. 14, 1955, in Coyote Can- Chenoa was born March yon, New Mexico, into the Haltsooí (Meadow 29, 1992, in Shiprock, into People Clan), born for Tódích’íi’nii (Bitter Water the Bit’ahnii (Under His Clan). He passed away June 20, 2020, in Tohlakai, Cover Clan), born for Kin- New Mexico. yaa’áanii (Towering House Andy attended school up to the 6th grade and Clan). She passed away was employed as a carpenter. He enjoyed listen- June 22, 2020, in Mentmo- ing to music, cleaning and doing yard work. re, New Mexico. Andy is survived by his father, Thomas Willie; Chenoa attended Sanders-Valley High School brother, Bruce Willie Sr.; and sisters, Sandra and was employed at Sonic in Gallup. Willie and Virginia Willie. Chenoa is survived by her boyfriend, Zachari- Andy is preceded in death by his mother, ah Yazzie; son, Montero Yazzie; daughter, Miya Esther Willie; wife, Virginia Tsinaaginna; and Yazzie; parents, Barbara Ann Phillips and Den- brother, Larry Willie. nison Billy Sr.; brother, Dennison Billy Jr.; and Pallbearers will be Bruce Willie Jr., Nate paternal grandparents, Marie and Tom Billy. Willie, Darnell Willie, Daylon Willie, and Harry Chenoa is preceded in death by her maternal Brown. grandparents, Lily and Tony Phillips. Rollie Mortuary is in charge of arrangements. Pallbearers were Kenneth Billy, Kendrick Billy, Dennison Billy Sr., Aznel Tsosie, Zachariah Yazzie, and Randy Boyd. Dale Allen Dailey Honorary pallbearers were Loren Toddy, Mon- tero Yazzie, Irvinn Toddy, Dennison Billy Jr., (JUNE 10, 1939 — JUNE 16, 2020) Antonio Toddy Cuzman, and Lyle Phillips. KIRTLAND, N.M. — Dale Silver Creek Mortuary was in charge of ar- was born in Blue Gap, rangements. Arizona. After attending In- termountain Indian School in Brigham City, Utah, he Robert Hale moved to Idaho Falls, Ida- ho, for a short time. He then TWIN LAKES, N.M. — Graveside service for moved to San Jose, Califor- Robert Hale, 82, of Twin Lakes, New Mexico, will nia, where he started and be held Thursday, July 2, at 10 a.m. at the family raised his family alongside land in Twin Lakes, with Leo Fischer officiating. his wife Mary. Robert was born May 9, 1938, in Twin Lakes, During his 20s, Dale en- into the Naakai dine’é (Mexican Clan), born for joyed bull riding in the states of California, Ari- Haltsooí (Meadow People Clan). He passed away zona and New Mexico. After 25 years in San Jose, June 25, 2020. he relocated to Kirtland, New Mexico, where he Robert was employed with the New Mexico successfully started his business, Dale’s Cabinet Highway Department in Buffalo Springs, New Shop Inc., for over 20 years. Mexico, for 29 years. He enjoyed watching west- Upon retirement, Dale enjoyed traveling to vis- ern movies, working outside, song and dances, it his family in nearby states of Arizona, Nevada driving around to visit, and was very sociable. and California. He spent most of his time playing Robert is survived by his wife, Ella Mae Hale; bingo, bowling and fishing with his grandkids daughters, Yvonna Walters, Roberta Hale-Char- and great-grandkids. ley, Valencia James, Vanessa Hale, and Renee Dale was a loyal fan of his beloved Bay Area Hale; brothers, Richard Hale and Eugene Hale; sports teams: San Francisco 49ers, San Francis- sisters, Eunice Cadman, Pearl Smith and Gene- co Giants and the Golden State Warriors. vieve Frank; and grandchild, Torrie James. Lastly, Dale was a loyal supporter of his local Robert is preceded in death by his parents, sports organizations, the Kirtland Bronco sports Blanche Robertson-Hale and Jimmy Hale; broth- program and many of the recreational youth ers, Norman Hale and Leonard Hale; and sisters, programs. He showed his support by not only Betty Shirley and Rose Hale. attending many games, but also sponsoring and Pallbearers will be Joey Allen, Virgil Tsosie, donating every year. Eric Howey, Henry Hale, Benjimen Jimenez, and Dale is survived by his siblings, Dan Dailey, Sebastian Lawrence. Elsie Dailey, Bennie Dailey, Esther Haskie, Linda Honorary pallbearers will be Torrie James, Ja- Caigoy, Dennis Dailey, and Andy Dailey; chil- son Lawrence, Terry Charley, Christopher Hale, dren, Richard Dailey, Alfred Dailey and Marlene Garrett Hale, Chris Hale, Ray Watson, Eugene Jaramillo (Tony); and six grandchildren and Hale, Andy Cadman, Donovan Cadman, Darryl seven great-grandchildren. Cadman, Andrew Hale, Jeremy Hale, Presley Dale is preceded in death by his brothers, Sherman, and Lamar Leekity. LeJoe Dailey and Denny Dailey; wife, Mary E. There will be no reception due to safety and the Dailey; mother, Mary Lee Dailey; son, Allen Dale prevention of COVID-19. Dailey; and grandsons, Lane Anthony Jaramillo Rollie Mortuary is in charge of arrangements. and Darrin Allen Dailey. A12 THURSDAY, JULY 02, 2020 NAVAJO TIMES Jáá’ák’eh NAVAJO TIMES SPORTS THURSDAY, JULY 02, 2020 B1 NABI leads grad to career as epidemiologist

BY QUENTIN JODIE NAVAJO TIMES

WINDOW ROCK — Dominic Clichee first introduced himself to the Native American Basketball Invitational in the mid-2000s as a high school basketball player. Last week, Clichee returned to the NABI community as a keynote speaker during the 2020 NABI Foundation Virtual Educational Youth Summit. He gave a presentation via Facebook of his experience as a NABI alumnus and his journey as an epidemiologist on the Navajo Nation. “NABI holds a special place in my heart,” Clichee said. “Not only did I play there but I actually worked the event when I working for Nike N7. SPECIAL TO THE TIMES | UC IRVINE ATHLETICS “One of the biggest tools and skills I Brad Greene, a Paiute-Shoshone tribal member, learned from NABI was the ability to net- completed his redshirt junior season with the work,” he added. “I had the opportunity to UC Irvine men’s basketball team this past year. interact with coaches and players.” Greene helped the Anteaters to a 21-11 record, The former Navajo Pine standout played which included a 13-3 mark in Big West play. in the 2004 and 2005 NABI tournament. Af- ter graduating high school, Clichee signed with Clark University in Worcester, Massa- chusetts. College “It was thousands and thousands of miles away from where I grew up so that was definitely tough,” Clichee said. He played one season at Clark University as the coach that recruited him took a posi- player: tion with the Boston College men’s basket- ball program. Looking to earn more playing time, Cli- chee said he started having conversations with then-Haskell Indian Nations Univer- Don’t forget sity men’s basketball coach Ted Juneau, a coach he met at NABI. “That small interaction and networking opportunity led me to eventually transfer- the phrase ring to Haskell,” he said. In between his junior and senior season, Juneau encouraged Clichee to apply for an intern position with Nike N7. At that time, Clichee said, Nike N7 was transitioning ‘student- from a grant-funding organization into a full-fledged retail brand. Following his graduating as the 2010 Student of the Year, Clichee interned for a athlete’ few months and that eventually turned into a full-time position with Nike. “I was at a high-level corporate structure BY QUENTIN JODIE to where I could see what was happening,” NAVAJO TIMES he said. “But I felt at the time I needed to be in the communities and be on the ground. WINDOW ROCK — For proof that the sys- That was where my heart was really at.” tem is still working, the Native American As part of his responsibilities working Basketball Invitational Foundation has to for the N7 Fund, Clichee went through tons look no further than Brad Greene. and tons of applications. It was there he The Paiute-Shoshone tribal member in noticed that a lot of the program directors Lone Pine, California, completed his red- that applied for the grants had “MPH” list- shirt junior season as a member of the UC ed after their names. Irvine men’s basketball program this past And after doing a simple Google search, spring. SUBMITTED As a NABI alumnus, Greene said his SEE LEADS | B2 Dominic Clichee gave a presentation about his experience as a NABI alumnus and his journey as an epidemiologist experience has equipped him to be a suc- during the 2020 NABI Foundation Virtual Educational Youth Summit last week. cessful student-athlete, as the foundation “is committed to supporting Native Ameri- can youth by implementing programs that encourage higher education, sports, health & wellness and community building.” “The experiences that I've had at NABI have really helped me become the person who I am today,” Greene said during the 2020 NABI Foundation Virtual Education- Ganado grad signs al Youth Summit last week. “Not only in academics and athletics, but just overall as a person. The tools they gave me have been really rewarding.” This past season, the 6-11 center played 32 games with 31 starts for the Anteaters. with Rust College UC-Irvine finished the season at 21-11 over- all, which included a first-place finish in BY QUENTIN JODIE and I’m glad the volleyball coach gave Big West play with a 13-3 conference mark. NAVAJO TIMES me this opportunity to continue my edu- Greene played a vital role in the team’s cation and volleyball career.” success as he averaged 9.0 points, 7.7 re- WINDOW ROCK — Former Ganado Coleman said she feels pretty confi- bounds and 1.4 blocks per game. He had a standout Michelene Coleman has found dent about taking this next step in her team-high nine double-doubles and led the a new home in Holly Springs, Mississip- life as she’s contemplating on what to team in rebounding 17 times. pi. major in. On Jan. 21, he set a new Bren Event Cen- Coleman signed her letter of intent to “I feel good about leaving for college,” ter record with a career-high 21 rebounds play for the women’s volleyball program she said. “It gives me the opportunity to against Hawaii. He also registered a sea- at Rust College, a historically Black learn new things off the reservation and son-high 18 points with a dozen rebounds liberal arts college. explore the world and meet new people. and four blocks against CSUF on Feb. 1. “It’s an HBCU school and I wanted to I’m looking forward to the opportunities Despite his exploits, Greene stressed learn some things about my culture,” that are out there waiting for me. I can’t the importance of balancing his time and said Coleman, who is Diné and Afri- wait to finally go out there and grasp effort between the basketball court and the can-American. what I’ve worked for all these years.” classroom. Coleman said picking the NAIA Divi- Coleman said two other colleges were “One of the biggest things I was told when sion I college was an easy choice since on her radar as Yavapai Community I got to college was the phrase ‘student-ath- her older sister, Jasmine, attends the College in Prescott, Arizona, and Prairie lete,’” said Greene, who is pursuing a school, playing on the women’s basket- View A&M in Texas sought her services. double major in sociology and educational ball team. Rust College, however, prevailed with science. “Without your education and with- “It opened my eyes up when I went out the full-ride scholarship they offered. out succeeding in the classroom, there is no there to drop her off,” she said, noting “I gave her some insight and we looked basketball for you. that she had an opportunity to practice at different things,” Coleman’s mother, “Once you get there both aspects SUBMITTED with the Rust College volleyball team. Ivanna Jones, said. “What we really become your job,” he added. “Knowing Former Ganado standout Michelene Coleman signed her letter of “I really liked the interaction I had intent to play for the Rust College women’s volleyball program in Holly with my coach and teammates,” she SEE SIGNS | B2 SEE PLAYER | B3 Springs, Mississippi. said. “I’m excited to be going to college B2 THURSDAY, JULY 02, 2020 NAVAJO TIMES SIGNS FROM PAGE 1 looked at was the financial side of things.” Jones said she is a single mother of five and it was im- portant for her daughter to get her college paid for. “That was what we were look- ing for,” she said. Coleman said she’s grateful to be playing at the next level, and she thanked her siblings for inspiring her. “My sisters worked so hard to get their scholarships,” she said of Danielle, Jasmine and Jami- ka. “They inspired me to seek out the same thing and never let go of my dreams.” Coleman said her older brother, Jamaal, motivated her to work hard as he completed his redshirt freshman year with the Cochise College men’s basketball program. “He’s such a hard worker and he made me want to be a better person,” she said. “All my siblings made me want to do great things in everything that I do.” In addition to her siblings, Coleman was equally quick to acknowledge that her mom and aunt, April Clairmont, have also influenced her. “My aunt was a hall-of-famer,” Coleman said. “And my mom has been with me all these years and she coached me. She never played favorites with me. She made sure I worked hard and earned what I deserved. I’m grateful to have them both in my life.” And although she has some reservations about her baby leaving for college, Jones said she’s excited that her youngest daughter is ready to leave the family nest. “People have asked me about how I would feel when she goes off to college and I think I’ve accepted it,” Jones said. “Of course, I’ll have my emotional days but I’m happy to see her go after her dreams.” Jones said her daughter put SUBMITTED in the work to be an imposing Ganado graduate Michelene Coleman (right) attempts a middle attack in this file photo last year. Coleman will take her talents to play for the Rust College women’s volleyball program volleyball player as she played in the fall. three of four seasons on the Ganado High volleyball team. she sets out to do,” she said. And although she was a wanted to do. Coleman wanted to thank all “I want to thank them for all (Coleman sat out her sopho- “She’s very coachable and she three-sport athlete in high “It’s been a part of my life ever of her coaches, including high their support throughout my more season due to a foot injury was a leader on and off the school, having also played on since I was a little kid,” she said. school coach Jerome Burns, journey,” she said. “I want to she sustained at a volleyball court. She picked up the slack the basketball and track teams, “Playing volleyball at the next for their wisdom. She also thank my fans and especially tournament.) in the places we needed her and Coleman said playing volley- level is what I wanted to do and I expressed gratitude for her God. He’s helped me throughout “She works hard at whatever she’s a team player.” ball collegiately was what she hope to make a difference.” family, friends and teachers. some hardships.”

Clichee said that’s how he end- at prevalence and incidence eight service units serving the actively doing case investiga- above 60% alcohol based,” he said. ed up being an epidemiologist. rates, which is basically disease Diné people are working togeth- tions and keeping up with this As a PhD candidate for public LEADS “I was just good with num- investigation to help identify er to mitigate the spread of this to ensure that if someone does health, Clichee also teaches bers,” he said. “That is what an areas where the disease is highly contagious disease. test positive for COVID-19 we prospective students who are in FROM PAGE 1 epidemiologist does. We look spreading and we find ways to “One of the things that a lot of are creating a bubble around their second year of the mas- mitigate the spread.” people don’t get to see is the col- them so we can keep them from ter’s program. Prior to this year, Clichee laboration between the differ- infecting others.” “I also advise for a research said they studied the preva- ent entities on the reservation,” Like all viruses, Clichee said center,” he said. lence and incidence rates of he said. “At one point we did the novel coronavirus needs a He’s the liaison for the Center infectious disease at a local have the highest rate of infec- host to survive. for Indigenous Environmental level but since March there has tion of COVID-19 in the United “If we can minimize the hosts Health Research, a research been a drastic shift with the States and the world. that it has to infect then we can center that is looking at the COVID-19 pandemic. “However, this pandemic decrease the rates of infection,” concept of resiliency. The newly identified virus has brought opportunities to he said. “What that means is “It’s the ability to overcome was first detected in China in highlight areas where we need staying at home and staying adversity,” he said. “Growing December and as of June 28 the to improve and those areas in- away from other individuals. I up on the rez you have plenty of number of COVID-19 positive clude working with our federal know this is difficult but again adversity. We see it in main- cases for the Navajo Nation had partners, our tribal partners if the virus doesn’t have a host, stream media. Unfortunately, reached 7,469, which resulted in and the interaction between the then it goes away.” in our area there are high rates 363 deaths, according to a press different hospital facilities,” he As an epidemiologist, Clichee of poverty and low educational release from the Navajo Nation added. said the best thing they can do attainment. OPVP office. Clichee said they’re doing is stop the spread. “But one of the things that “We really don’t understand their best in identifying indi- “Some of the most effective they don’t highlight is our abil- the disease process, it differen- viduals that have contracted ways of stopping the spread are ity to survive as Native people,” tiates from person to person,” the disease. simple, such as staying home, he added. “It’s going back to the Clichee said. “We’re actively doing con- washing your hands frequently things that we learned on the Nonetheless, Clichee said the tact tracing,” he said. “We’re and using hand sanitizer that is reservation. It’s about never giving up – looking for that next opportunity and taking advan- tage of it.” With the support from fam- ilies and our culture, Clichee said the skills to be successful are built within us. “They’re innate,” he said, while noting that those skills aided him in pursuing his edu- cational and professional goals even though he struggled with leaving home. “I think I still have some PTSD going to the Albuquer- que airport, flying out of there even it’s for a job now that I’m an adult,” Clichee said. “That airport was always associated with sadness and, unfortunate- ly, not wanting to leave home and leaving my family for five to six months at a time.” But with self-discipline and knowing that there is an end- point, Clichee understood that once he achieved one goal it opened up other opportunities. “I knew that our tribal lead- ers and my family had talked to me that education is something that you have to strive for,” he said. “It’s the only reliable way to make an impact for your community.” While talking to prospective college student, Clichee said they may not realize the signif- icance of the journey they are about to partake. “You have the ability to change the world and shape the future that you want to have,” he said. “When you go out there and strive, your success is going to leave footprints and that’s going to inspire others.” NAVAJO TIMES THURSDAY, JULY 02, 2020 B3 PLAYER AIA postpones

FROM PAGE 1 resumption of how to balance both is very crucial sports, activities and very critical to your success at college.” To achieve that, Greene said the until Aug 17 biggest skill he learned was time man- agement. “While you’re at college you’re PHOENIX — Citing Arizona Governor expected to put the work in, whether Doug Ducey’s executive order regarding that’s working on your game or aca- the start date of in-class instruction, the demics,” he said. Arizona Interscholastic Association will Sometimes, he said, you’re asked delay all-school related athletics and “to put in more time than what’s activities until Aug. 17. required.” On Monday, Ducey pushed back the Greene advised prospective college start date — originally scheduled for students who earn scholarships to be Aug. 3 — due to growing concern over the ready to perform on and off the court. recent spike of coronavirus cases in the “If you’re not doing one of them state of Arizona. you’re not upholding your part of the “We couldn’t be more disappoint- contract,” he said. “It leaves the coach- ed about the information that just came ing staff at a discretion to do what they out regarding our schools. However, need to do. You got to either succeed we understand that the most pressing or you’re not going to be there, so you concern is to ensure our student-ath- really got to prioritize what you’re letes can return to school in the safest going to do.” way possible,” AIA Executive Director Despite showing success at the col- David Hines said in press release. “We legiate level, Greene painted a bleak will do everything in our power to picture of his playing days while in make sure that when we get back up high school. and going again, the transition will be “When I first started high school as seamless as possible and to create I never thought about college,” he memorable interscholastic experienc- said. “There weren’t too many people es. And we’ll be able to accomplish that that I knew that were going to col- as long as everyone does their part to lege or pursuing athletics in college stay safe and prevent the spread of the so I didn’t have that idea of going to virus.” college.” With the delay, the AIA said the start- It wasn’t until his sophomore season ing dates of practice for all fall sports that Greene realized that his basket- and activities will be pushed back, which ball skills could land him on a col- means a delay in the start of season. legiate team as he got introduced to Last week, the AIA was in the process playing travel ball. of sending out surveys to all member He got his start by playing with school principals in hopes to gather infor- a traveling team from Las Vegas, mation on how to proceed for the upcom- Nevada. It required him to make the ing fall sports season. one-way, four-hour trip to Sin City to Due to the governor’s orders, the AIA get his name out there. will issue those surveys at a later date “I had to travel a lot to get my name “to more closely coincide with the state’s out there and get exposure,” he said. target date of reopening schools.” “I had to try and get college coaches In the meantime, they will continue to willing to drive out (to Lone Pine) to meet with the numerous statewide stake- see me. It was a long journey but I had holders and prepare to create alternative to start somewhere.” sports schedules. Greene credited his mother, Marji- With the uncertainty, the AIA stated anne Yonge, and grandparents for the that the “exact dates for the beginning sacrifices they made for him to attend of competition will not be finalized until his summer tournaments. the organization gathers much-needed “They were willing to drive me, and information” from its members. they were willing to push me,” he said, The AIA advised everyone to continue while adding that he had to prove his to adhere to all health department guide- worth by staying committed. lines in combating this virus. “If I didn’t show that to my mom or “Please stay safe and vigilant in our grandpa I don’t think I would be where fight against Coronavirus,” the AIA I am today,” he said. “They really took statement read. “Following health de- hold (of what I was doing). I spent a lot SPECIAL TO THE TIMES | UC IRVINE ATHLETICS partment guidelines and taking proper of hours at the park, a lot of hours in Brad Greene credits his NABI experience for setting him up to be a successful student-athlete on the UC Irvine men’s basket- precautions will go a long way for schools the gym trying to work on my game.” ball team. Greene averaged 9.0 points, 7.7 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game as a redshirt junior for the Anteaters. to be able to reopen.” Bił Nidahaz’áágo C1 THURSDAY, JULY 02, 2020 COMMUNITY NAVAJO TIMES Forging relationships Family’s blacksmithing hobby helps them ride out the curfew

BY CINDY YURTH TSÉYI’ BUREAU

TOHATCHI, N.M. — As a stay- at-home dad, Michael Mitchell had already perfected a few techniques for “getting my kids out of their rooms.” But after the curfew orders went into effect, he had to up his game to keep his four teens and young adults from going stir-crazy while their mom, a nurse who works at an assisted living facility, was laboring long hours on the front lines. Although he had some trepi- dation about letting his young- est two work around a 2,300-de- gree forge, he decided to share his blacksmithing hobby with them. NAVAJO TIMES | SHARON CHISCHILLY To his surprise, it took off — Michael Mitchell holds the “Diné katana” he is working on, engraved for all of them, from 13-year-old with the four sacred mountains. Mitchell also makes handles for all Hunter to 22-year-old Mike. his blades out of either wood or cord. He said the handle of this one “They all really like it,” he “hasn’t come to be yet.” said as his quartet of offspring nodded in agreement Monday. Mitchell’s own interest in blacksmithing is relatively new — about a year-and-a-half ago, he started noticing interesting metalwork — a door handle in Gallup, some simple projects on the internet. “I thought, ‘I already know how to silversmith,’” he said. “I can do that.” He started out heating strips of rebar or scrap metal in his wood stove and bending or hammering them into shapes. Then he got interested in knives. The Mitchells had been studying jiu jitsu as a family for years, and at one point took a class in Apache-Navajo knife fighting (don’t worry, they use NAVAJO TIMES | SHARON CHISCHILLY plastic dummy knives). As his siblings plug their ears, Mike Mitchell grinds the tanto blade he is The more Mitchell learned working on. about blades, the more he saw them everywhere: movies, books, the internet. He learned about Indian hunting knives, Spartan swords, Viking seaxes and bearded axes, Japanese tantos and katanas. In the Iron-Age battles he read about, there was often a famous sword, but you never heard about the blacksmith NAVAJO TIMES | SHARON CHISCHILLY who made it. Hunter Mitchell appraises the piece of metal he is making into a knife Monday in Tohatchi, N.M. “To me, the blacksmiths are the unsung heroes of battle,” he for his cornfield, “He told me, said. ‘Make it yourself,’” recalled Sadly, he discovered most Myron, “and then he taught me modern knives are made in how.” China, engineered by comput- Myron’s hoe is beautiful, ers and produced thousands at hefty and solid. a time. The once-revered art “It breaks up the ground of bladesmithing is critically like it’s nothing,” he declared endangered. proudly. NAVAJO TIMES | SHARON CHISCHILLY But not at the Mitchell house, Sure, he could have bought a Left to right, Hunter, Amy, Myron, Michael, and Mike Mitchell show off where Hunter, Mike, their similar tool for $10 at the hard- their projects in Tohatchi, N.M., on Monday. 17-yer-old sister Amy and ware store, but “I like knowing 15-year-old brother Myron take that I made it myself,” he said. day every day at the forge. The hammering that metal, you’re turns at the forge in the fam- “It’s very satisfying, to make Mitchells also run, work out breathing life into it,” Mitchell ily’s carport while hammers your own tool.” and play instruments together, said. “’A piece of your spirit is ring and grinders buzz. The kids’ mom, Charlene, and they’re learning American going into that blade. This knife Is there a quarantine going doesn’t participate in all this Sign Language. is going to still be on earth after on? This family barely notices. metal madness. By the time The two younger boys are you’re not around any more.’” Amy is making a knife out of she gets home from work, she’s home-schooled, while Mike and Nothing like a sharp obser- a railroad spike, crafting the NAVAJO TIMES | SHARON CHISCHILLY tired enough that banging on Amy are taking online classes vation to cut the dullness out of handle out of parachute cord. Michael Mitchell removes Hunter’s blade from the forge in the family’s a chunk of tin is not the first at the University of New Mexi- staying at home. “It’s pretty exciting to learn a carport Monday so Hunter can pound it thinner.5 leisure activity that comes to co-Gallup. Both hope to become Information: If anyone is new skill,” she said. “I was sur- mind. But she does encourage nurses like their mom. interested in learning how prised how much strength and it. As far as activities, “I like to to blacksmith or bladesmith, endurance it took. My forearms Mike is making a tanto, a thumb of the family, prefers to “It keeps them busy,” she mix it up,” said Michael. Mitchell is happy to share were sore for about a week.” short sword that was a samu- beat swords into plowshares in- shrugged. “They’re not talking And meanwhile, there are a tips and some resources he “If you’re going to be a black- rai’s sidearm. stead of the other way around. about alcohol and drugs. And it few more cool handmade knives has found. He will respond to smith, it helps to be in tip-top Hunter is also making a After telling his dad he keeps them fit.” in the world. emails at fourwarriorz@gmail. shape,” agreed her father. knife, but Myron, the green wanted a small, hand-held hoe Of course, you can’t spend all “I tell my kids, ‘When you’re com.

ART BRIEFS

Métís singer/songwriter ‘Three Sisters’ to be live-streamed Hopinka’s feature headlines visible to ourselves and to others through the wins Indigenous artist of year WASHINGTON – As part of the Smithsonian 3rd Annual Lumbee Film Festival Online arts. It is important for us to have our own repre- Folklife Festival "Beyond the Mall" digital sentation and tell our own stories.” EDMONTON, Alberta, Canada – Peace Country's programming, “Corn, Beans, and Squash: What WILMINGTON, N.C. – Seventeen films directed by very own Celeigh Cardinal, Métís, earned her the Three Sisters Tell Us” will be live-streamed indigenous filmmakers have been chosen for the SWAIA moving forward first JUNO Award on June 29 during the Canadi- today from 12 p.m. to 12:45 p.m. (ET). 3rd annual Lumbee Film Festival, taking place an Academy of Recording Arts and Science's 49th Corn, beans, and squash, commonly known online from July 1-5. with virtual Indian Market annual ceremony. as “the Three Sisters,” have been important The festival is organized through a partnership SANTA FE – The Southwestern Association for The contralto singer/songwriter was with companion crops in Indigenous communities in between the Lumbee Tribe and the Cucalorus Indian Art has announced additional details friends and family in Morinville, Alberta, when the Americas for centuries. This combination Film Foundation with the goal of showcasing about its partnership with the Clark Hulings her “Stories From A Downtown Apartment” al- not only holds traditional wisdom and folklore films made by Native Americans while raising Fund, which will launch the 2020 Virtual Indian bum was announced as the winner of the Indige- but has also been proven to be scientifically and awareness about the legacy of indigenous artists, Market on Aug. 1 while providing business train- nous Artist of the Year category. environmentally symbiotic. especially those working in the Southeastern ing and support to Native artists. Cardinal said, "I've been dreaming about Join the conversation between Smithsonian United States and creating a platform for emerg- The Clark Hulings Fund has arranged for standing on the JUNO stage since I was a little Gardens horticulturist Christine Price-Abe- ing Native artists. SWAIA to work with Artspan to provide web- girl, but I've known for a long time that I don't fit low and Smithsonian's National Museum of Sky Hopinka's “’malni - towards the ocean, sites to SWAIA artists throughout the U.S. and the mold of what the music industry considers the American Indian staff – Mitsitam Cafe chef towards” takes home this year’s grand prize for Canada. These individual artist websites will be 'marketable.' Freddie Bitsoie, Navajo, student and teachers best feature and will screen on the closing night integrated into a central Native American Art "With this win,” she said, “I hope that all the coordinator Renee Gokey, Eastern Shawnee, and of the festival, June 5 at 4 p.m. MDT. Marketplace opening Aug. 1. little brown girls out there see that they can be cultural interpreter program coordinator Mandy This mesmerizing feature weaves together the “SWAIA’s goals are both immediate and anything and all the folks who lie awake at night Van Heuvelen, Mnicoujou Lakota. stories of Sweetwater Sahme and Jordan Merci- long-term,” says Executive Director Kim Peone, with anxiety and doubt see that they can let more The program will include step-by-step instruc- er as they contemplate the afterlife, rebirth and Colville Confederated Tribes/Eastern Band of happiness and dreams break through." tions on preparing a delicious dish incorporating the places in between. Spoken mostly in chinuk Cherokee. “Our first objective is to launch a solu- The Western Canadian Music Awards also the Three Sisters. wawa, their stories are departures from the tion-based platform to meet the economic needs honored Cardinal with the Indigenous Artist of Information: https://youtube.com/smith- Chinookan origin of death myth, with its distant of our artists. the Year title in 2018 for her sophomore release, sonianfolklife or https://www.facebook.com/ beginning and circular shape. “Longer-term goals will position SWAIA as a tech- “Everything and Nothing At All” (May 11, 2017). events/2648257885500942/ “It is beautiful to see ourselves in resistance to nology leader and innovator, able to offer increased the attempts to make us invisible,” said festival services and support to Native artists,” she said. director Kim Pevia. “The festival helps make us Information: www.swaia.org. NAVAJO TIMES NATIVE NEWS THURSDAY, JULY 02, 2020 C2 Native Americans protesting Trump trip to Mount Rushmore

BY STEPHEN GROVES al racism that’s still alive and cially because the region has that Mount Rushmore could be good Indians are dead Indians, the Ku Klux Klan, according to well in society today,” said Nick seen dry weather this year. next. Commentator Ben Sha- but I believe nine out of every 10 Mount Rushmore historian and SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Tilsen, a member of the Oglala Firefighters called in crews piro this week suggested that are ...” writer Tom Griffith. Borglum President Donald Trump’s Lakota tribe and the president from two other states to help the “woke historical revisionist The monument has long been joined the Klan to raise money plans to kick off Independence of a local activist organization Thursday as a blaze consumed priesthood” wanted to blow up a “Rorschach test,” said John for the Confederate memorial, Day with a showy display at called NDN Collective. “It’s an approximately 150 acres (61 the monument. Noem respond- Taliaferro, author of “Great and Griffith argues his alle- Mount Rushmore have angered injustice to actively steal Indig- hectares) about 6 miles (10 ed by tweeting, “Not on my White Fathers,” a history of the giance was more practical than Native Americans, who view enous people’s land, then carve kilometers) south of the mon- watch.” monument. “All sorts of people ideological. the monument as a desecration the white faces of the colonizers ument. The governor told Fox News can go there and see it in differ- Native American activists of land violently stolen from who committed genocide.” The four faces, carved into on Wednesday, “These men ent ways.” have long staged protests at them and used to pay homage While some activists, like the mountain with dynamite have flaws, obviously every The monument often starts the site to raise awareness of to leaders hostile to Indigenous Tilsen, want to see the monu- and drills, are known as the leader has flaws, but we’re conversations on the paradox of the history of the Black Hills, people. ment removed and the Black “shrine to democracy.” The missing the opportunity we American democracy — that a which were seized despite Several groups led by Native Hills returned to the Lakota, presidents were chosen by have in this discussion to talk republic that promoted the ide- treaties with the United States American activists are plan- others have called for a share in sculptor Gutzon Borglum for about the virtues and what they als of freedom, determination protecting the land. Fifty years ning protests for Trump’s July the economic benefits from the their leadership during four brought to this country, and and innovation also enslaved ago, a group of activists asso- 3 visit, part of Trump’s “come- region. phases of American develop- the fact that this is the founda- people and drove others from ciated with an organization back” campaign for a nation Trump has long shown a ment: Washington led the birth tion that we’re built on and the their land, he said. called United Native Americans reeling from sickness, unem- fascination with Mount Rush- of the nation; Jefferson sparked heritage we should be carrying “If we’re having this discus- climbed to the top of the monu- ployment and, recently, social more. South Dakota Gov. Kristi its westward expansion; Lin- forward.” sion today about what Amer- ment and occupied it. unrest. The event is slated to Noem said in 2018 that he once coln preserved the union and Tim Giago, a journalist who is ican democracy is, Mount Quanah Brightman, who now include fighter jets thundering told her straight-faced that it emancipated slaves; Roosevelt a member of the Oglala Lakota Rushmore is really serving its runs United Native Americans, over the 79-year-old stone mon- was his dream to have his face championed industrial innova- tribe, said he doesn’t see four purpose because that conversa- said the activism in the 1970s ument in South Dakota’s Black carved into the monument. tion. great American leaders when tion goes on there,” he said. “Is grew out of the civil rights Hills and the first fireworks He later joked at a campaign And yet, for many Native he looks at the monument; it fragile? Is it permanent? Is it movement of the 1960s. He display at the site since 2009. rally about getting enshrined American people, including he sees four white men who cracking somewhat?” hopes a similar movement for But it comes amid a national alongside George Washington, the Lakota, Cheyenne, Omaha, either made racist remarks or The monument was conceived Native Americans comes from reckoning over racism and a Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Arapaho, Kiowa and Kio- initiated actions that removed in the 1920s as a tourist draw the Black Lives Matter move- reconsideration of the symbol- Roosevelt and Abraham Lin- wa-Apache, the monument is a Native Americans from their for the new fad in vacationing ment. ism of monuments around the coln. And while it was Noem, a desecration to the Black Hills, land. Washington and Jefferson called the road trip. South Da- “What people find here is the globe. Many Native American Republican, who pushed for a which they consider sacred. held slaves. Lincoln, though kota historian Doane Robinson story of America — it’s mul- activists say the Rushmore return of fireworks on the eve Lakota people know the area he led the abolition of slavery, recruited Borglum to abandon tidimensional, it’s complex,” memorial is as reprehensible as of Independence Day, Trump as Paha Sapa — “the heart of approved the hanging of 38 his work creating the Stone Griffith said. “It’s important to the many Confederate monu- committed to visiting South everything that is.” Dakota men in Minnesota after Mountain Confederate Memo- understand it was people just ments being toppled around the Dakota for the celebration. As monuments to Confederate a violent conflict with white rial in Georgia, which was to trying to do right as best they nation. Some wildfire experts have and Colonial leaders have been settlers there. Roosevelt is re- feature Robert E. Lee, Jefferson knew it then.” “Mount Rushmore is a symbol raised concerns the pyrotech- removed nationwide, some con- ported to have said, “I don’t go Davis and Stonewall Jackson. The White House declined to of white supremacy, of structur- nics could spark fires, espe- servatives have expressed fear so far as to think that the only Borglum was a member of comment. Hard-hit tribe takes strict steps as virus surges in Arizona

BY FELICIA FONSECA action to maintain the safety of our tribal members and the future FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (AP) — People of the Havasupai Tribe,” Chair- in the deserts of Arizona flee to woman Evangeline Kissoon wrote the White Mountains when the in a notice to river guides. triple-digit heat is too much to After talking with Grand Can- bear, cooling off in the forest a few yon National Park, the tribe said hours away. That worries a Native it would station law enforcement American tribe that calls the area at its boundary with the park, home, as coronavirus infections miles from the Colorado River and temperatures have both shore. spiked in one of the hardest-hit The nearby Navajo Nation, the states. nation’s largest Native American The White Mountain Apache reservation that spans parts of Tribe is taking some of the most Arizona, New Mexico and Utah, drastic actions in Arizona to pro- has attributed a slowdown in in- tect its 13,500 residents, more than fections to a daily curfew it’s had one-eighth of whom have already in place for months, a shutdown NAVAJO TIMES | RAVONELLE YAZZIE tested positive for COVID-19. It’s of government offices and tourist taking cues from severe measures sites, weekend lockdowns and a imposed by other tribes nation- mask requirement. wide, including the Navajo Nation, On tribal land elsewhere, res- All in a straight line which has curtailed an outbreak idents of the tiny Alaska Native that once made it a national hot village of Napaskiak are being spot. advised to stay home until July 5, A llama herds a flock of sheep on Saturday near Burnham Chapter House. Those living on the White Moun- leaving only for medical needs or tain Apache Tribe’s reservation quick runs to the grocery store. in northeastern Arizona faced the A health care corporation that risk of fines and other penalties if serves the village and dozens of they ventured beyond their own other rural communities pointed Tribal health board: Native Americans hit hard by COVID-19 yards last weekend. A two-week to a “strong likelihood” of commu- shelter-in-place order is in place. nity spread. RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — account for 14% of all cases, event last weekend, which fever and cough that clear The tribe’s Fort Apache Reser- In Montana, tribal leaders on the Native American people are while they make up about 9% revealed that three of the up in two to three weeks. vation also is closed to the sum- Blackfeet Indian Reservation said being disproportionately af- of the population. 200 people tested had the For some, especially older mertime visitors who flock to the this week that they closed their fected by the coronavirus, ac- “This shocking revelation COVID-19 virus. Church said adults and people with exist- area to fish, hike and camp among boundary with popular Glacier counting for over half of the must serve as a warning for the organization is planning ing health problems, it can ponderosa pines. National Park for the tourism sea- confirmed cases in one South our people and as a wake- two more mass testing events cause more severe illness, The tribe’s confirmed infections son to protect their residents. Dakota county, according to up call to the city, state and in the coming weeks. including pneumonia, and and 20 deaths as of last Friday The Cheyenne River Sioux data from the Great Plains federal governments to take Tribal leaders have argued death. make the reservation one of the Tribe in South Dakota has kept up Tribal Chairmen’s Health immediate steps to slow its that Native American com- Several tribes have set up hardest-hit places in a state that’s roadblocks since March despite Board released June 26. spread among our people,” munities need to be vigilant coronavirus checkpoints to recording over 3,000 cases a day criticism from the state’s governor. Tribal leaders have long said Great Plains Tribal against outbreaks, especially keep unnecessary visitors and running short on hospital Tribal Chairman Harold Frazier been concerned that the Chairmen’s Health Board because South Dakota has from the reservation. But space. said this week that the tribe took coronavirus could decimate CEO Jerilyn Church in a not issued a statewide lock- state and federal authori- “COVID has just turned our the step because it realized it had their members because many video message. down during the pandemic. ties argue the checkpoints world upside down,” White Moun- to protect its people. are elderly and have existing The organization, which They fear that COVID-19, the are not approved and block tain Apache Chairwoman Gwen- “All we have is ourselves,” he health problems. Data from operates a clinic in Rapid disease caused by the virus, access to U.S. and state high- dena Lee-Gatewood said. said. two large Rapid City health City and advocates for im- could be deadly for tribal ways. The tribe also is ordering In Arizona, the White Mountain care providers reveals that proved health care for Native communities, where multiple So far, tribes in South homeless people who test positive Apache Tribe said people can 53% of people with confirmed Americans, said it collected generations often live togeth- Dakota have not seen major for the virus to quarantine at the travel on a highway through its cases in Pennington County data from Monument Health er in one household. outbreaks, although many tribe’s casino-hotel — now closed land, but they can’t stop along the are tribal members, the Rap- and the Great Plains Tribal For most people, the new Native Americans frequently to visitors — and is banning the way. Tribal police also are consid- id City Journal reported. Epidemiology Center. It also coronavirus causes mild or travel between Rapid City sale and use of alcohol for the rest ering checkpoints, and a COVID-19 Statewide, Native Americans held its first mass testing moderate symptoms, such as and the reservations. of the year. Lee-Gatewood hopes it testing blitz is planned. will help keep people safe if they “There’s frustration, there’s get lax about social distancing impatience, there’s a lot of things,” and other measures when they’re tribal Councilman Jerold Altaha drinking. said in a video. “But remember, we The tribe’s strict steps come are doing the best we can, we are as Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey doing everything we can to help has imposed new restrictions on you.” businesses like other states where They’re looking to prevent more confirmed cases are surging. people from dying, like Apache Fellow Republican governors in elder Timothy Clawson Sr., 91. He Texas and Florida cracked down married his sweetheart under a on bars Friday. tree on the reservation and spent Lee-Gatewood said the White his life in the White Mountains, Mountain Apache Tribe took that working as a rancher and at a into consideration, along with the sawmill. typical summer crowds, when de- Lee-Gatewood, the tribal ciding how to target the pandemic chairwoman, recalled their last on its land. conversation. Clawson called “We’re seeing these visitors not earlier this month and said, “Well, paying attention to social distanc- chairwoman, I’m at the hospital, ing and wearing masks, and the and they told me I have this virus. governor had a real relaxed atti- They treated me, and the doctors tude about all of that in reopening said I wouldn’t leave here, and I’m the businesses back up,” she said. calling to say my goodbyes.” Elsewhere in Arizona, officials Lee-Gatewood said Clawson told on the Havasupai reservation deep her that he was proud of her. in a gorge off the Grand Canyon “You’re a tough cowboy,” she warned river rafters they would responded. “I’ll keep you in my be detained if they stepped foot on prayers.” NAVAJO TIMES | RAVONELLE YAZZIE land the tribe traditionally uses The next day, Lee-Gatewood got but isn’t part of its formal reserva- a text from Clawson’s granddaugh- tion. Known worldwide for its tow- ter: He had died. ering blue-green waterfalls, the On the trail reservation has been shut down ASSOCIATED PRESS writers Becky for months and has no reported Bohrer in Juneau, Alaska, and Matt Volz COVID-19 cases. in Helena, Montana, contributed to this Three hikers and their dog spend their afternoon hiking the Pyramid Trail on Friday in Church Rock, N.M. “We are left to take aggressive report. C3 THURSDAY, JULY 02, 2020 NAVAJO TIMES Emelia Pino: a healer of today

BY ANTHONY FLEG Emelia saw the way it has af- fected her peers, especially now he saw a community hurt- that the school year is over. ing, struggling. So Emelia Pino, a healer of She is from Zia Pueblo, today, went to work. northwest of the Albu- She wanted all 270 youth to Squerque/Rio Rancho area. receive an educational kit with Zia was one of the first Indig- age-appropriate books, games, enous communities hard hit by and supplies. She wrote a grant, COVID-19 cases and deaths in a something that most folks twice state where an alarming major- her age shudder to think about ity of cases are among Native doing. Americans. As I write this, she is collect- She is Emelia Pino, daugh- ing donations of money and ter of Charlotte and Fernando supplies and working to bring Pino. joy with these care packages Emelia is one of six children, over the next weeks. She is not with four older sisters and a stressing about how it is going younger brother. She is a senior to happen or about the summer at Bernalillo High who plans ticking away. to become a pediatrician, and In fact, she is already think- someone I got to meet over this ing about how to inspire other last year when she was a part of youth to step up and lead sim- Native Health Initiative’s Heal- ilar efforts in their tribes and ers of Tomorrow program. communities. Make no mistake: Emelia is a Love for community – that healer of today. is something we maybe have She saw a shortage of per- overlooked during the pandem- sonal protective equipment, or ic. It is something that Emelia PPE, in her community and set reminds us is a true way of out to fix it. gratitude. Step up, stand up, “Our community is hurting,” and make things happen. she said. “We have lost a few of Emelia, I am now writing to our elders. Being that we are you personally. Thank you. such a close-knit community, it Thank you for showing that really hurt me to see my com- all of us can be great, since we munity struggling. all can serve. Thank you for “I don’t see youth taking a reminding us of the creativity lead in my community but I and leadership that youth have felt it was time to stand up and for changing our world, not make a difference,” she said. tomorrow, but today, right now. The result of her standing up Thank you for loving your was 1,400 masks and a variety community, Zia Pueblo, in a of sanitation supplies. way that inspires me and all But she was not done. She saw of us to greater service and youth hurting in a different action. (Emelia, if you blush way, isolated under Zia’s strict reading this, that’s cool. No one orders that those under 18 are is watching. They promised not not allowed to leave the Pueblo. to look). The mandate is intended to If you would like to help in keep these youth and the Zia our donation drive, we are Pueblo community safe. But accepting educational supplies

COURTESY PHOTO Emilia Pino with some of the donations to her project to give educational kits to the youth of Zia Pueblo.

this Thursday, July 2, from 3 You can also make a tax-de- website. Contact Anthony Fleg p.m. to 5 p.m., at the NHI Office, ductible donation toward ([email protected]) with ANTHONY FLEG is the director of located at the UNM Law School. Emelia’s drive through NHI's additional questions. the Na

REGION BRIEFS

Begay named new ranger work for tribal employees “Arm yourself with a mask,” for Mount Taylor district The team closely monitors he said Monday after issuing national, regional, and local an executive order to shut down ALBUQUERQUE – Yolynda increases in demand to relax bars, night clubs and water parks Begay is the new ranger for the social distancing restrictions, while pushing back the start of Mount Taylor Ranger District, closures and modifications to school in the fall. “It’s your best according to the U.S. Forest work practices. defense against this virus.” Service. The pressure is rooted in While the Republican gover- She was previously tribal re- concern over the emotional nor has never discouraged the lations program manager at the and economic toll caused by use of masks, his full-throated Forest Service’s southwestern the pandemic. Individuals may endorsement of them was a big regional office. have experienced frustration change from a largely lukewarm Begay joins two other new and even grief about the loss of stance the last few months. rangers: Michael Salazar, with opportunity to enjoy the “nor- “There are some people that the Magdalena Ranger District; mal” activities of life. can’t wear masks for whatever and Ernest Taylor, with the “While we continue to take reason, shortness of breath Mountainair Ranger District. the utmost caution, it is import- or they are asthmatic,” Ducey The district ranger is respon- ant that we prepare for the ‘new said June 13 when asked why sible for overall management normal,’ beginning with plans he wouldn’t mandate the use of of the unit that he or she is to reopen when the health risks them. assigned to, including oversight to the tribal membership and The change in tone on masks of recreation, timber, fire, and staff are drastically reduced,” and a return to restrictions are other land management activ- the tribe said in a news release. the latest signs that Ducey, sim- ities. Reopening plans are cur- ilar to some other Republican Along with leading district rently in draft form. A final governors nationwide, is being personnel, the ranger also plan will be approved before forced to set political consider- serves as a liaison with com- relaxation of any orders or ations aside amid surging cases. munity members, local leaders, work modifications could and elected officials. begin. There is no guaranteed Public meetings on Lake All three new rangers are timeline for this event, and the working in their official capaci- phased reopening is dependent Powell Pipeline project ty at this time. on the status and spread of PROVO, UTAH – The U.S. In addition, Matthew Rau will COVID-19. Bureau of Reclamation, on be the acting forest supervisor The planning process is a behalf of the Department of the for the Cibola National Forest proactive preparation and no Interior, will host two public and National Grasslands from implementation schedule has meetings July 8 and 9 on its now until late October, while been developed or approved. environmental review of Utah’s Steve Hattenbach is on a tempo- proposed Lake Powell Pipeline rary assignment in Colorado. Ariz. gov endorses project, according to a BOR facemasks news release. Southern Utes developing The pipeline project, proposed PHOENIX – After telling by the Utah Board of Water Re- reopening plan Arizonans that many public sources, would establish a sec- IGNACIO, Colo. – The Southern places were again being closed ond source of water for Wash- Ute Indian Tribe Incident Man- amid a surge of coronavirus ington County, Utah, through agement Team has been work- cases, Gov. Doug Ducey ended an approximately 140-mile-long ing hard over the last few weeks a somewhat contentious news water delivery pipeline from to develop reopening plans to conference by imploring people Lake Powell near Glen Can- implement a phased return to to wear facemasks. yon Dam in Page, Arizona, to Sand Hollow Reservoir near St. George, Utah. The department encourages public review and comment on its draft Environmental Impact Statement and draft Resource Management Plan Amendment for the project. The meetings will be host- ed virtually using web-based participation platforms in order to facilitate maximum public participation amid ongoing public health concerns. Web address for July 8: http:// ow.ly/He8f50Am5HX Web address for July 9: http:// ow.ly/2glG50Am5HW Note: Please log into meet- ing at least 10 minutes prior to 6 p.m. All participants will remain on mute throughout the meeting. NAVAJO TIMES THURSDAY, JULY 02, 2020 C4

CAPITAL BRIEFS

Cell on wheels delivers funding as unrestricted spending for cellular, broadband pet projects.” service to Low Mountain Leaders praise denial of NM’s On Friday morning, a cell on wheels unit was turned on in Low Mountain, request to dismiss lawsuit Arizona, to provide wireless cellular On Monday, New Mexico First Judi- and broadband service to the area. cial District Court Judge Matthew Wil- The network went live for cellular son denied the state of New Mexico’s users at 10 a.m. and legislative branch request to dismiss the Yazzie/Martinez staff were able to live-stream on-loca- versus the state of New Mexico case, tion immediately. saying that all students have a right to Valena Tsosie, deputy general man- be college- and career-ready and that ager of Choice NTUA Wireless, said, the state failed to meet that obligation. “This day has been in the making for The judge said the state was unable five-plus years. Our goal has always to comply with the state and federal been to bring service to the Low Moun- laws regarding the education of Native tain community.” American and English Language The unit is capable of delivering line- Learner students. The state failed to of-sight service to a surrounding area provide Native American and ELL of up to 15 miles. The unit is one of students programs and services to two that Choice NTUA Wireless owns prepare for college or a career. and is providing at its own expense for President Jonathan Nez said, “Nava- community members. jo students, and all Native American Cell users on Choice’s own network, students, deserve the highest quality as well as other major carriers, will education. The only way that will be now have service in the vicinity. achieved is if the New Mexico fully Friday’s cell on wheels going live complies with the court’s order to was made possible by the recent build- increase education funding, improve out of fiber by Navajo Tribal Utility educational opportunities, and meets Authority to the nearby Low Mountain the intent of the state’s Indian Educa- school and chapter house. With the tion Act with decisive action.” chapter’s fiber and electricity lines The case was decided in 2018 and the in place, the unit was placed in the motion to dismiss the case was filed by most feasible location until permanent the state on May 1. In response, the Na- locations could be identified for fixed vajo Nation and the All Pueblo Council cell towers. of Governors, Mescalero Apache Nation At a ribbon-cutting ceremony, and Jicarilla Apache Nation immedi- Council Delegate Kee Allen Begay ately opposed the state’s motion. Jr. (Tachee-Blue Gap/Many Farms/ Delegate Daniel Tso, from White- Nazlini/Tselani-Cottonwood/Low NAVAJO TIMES | DONOVAN QUINTERO horse Lake, chairman of the Health, Mountain) thanked residents, chapter Marie Leo and her daughter in-law Geneva Leo gather Navajo tea Sunday alongside U.S. Highway 191 in Wide Ruins, Ariz. Education, and Human Services officials, NTUA, Choice Wireless, the Committee, said that the New Mexico president’s office, Navajo Nation Coun- said, “In working together with the vetting process for all projects included the resolution has not reached our of- Public Education Department, as an cil, Navajo Nation Telecommunica- president and chief justice of the Navajo an approval vote of the Council and the fice for consideration. It’s time to stop organization, continues to marginalize tions Regulatory Commission, Navajo Nation, we will ensure the expenditure signature of the Navajo Nation president. playing political games and send the the needs of Navajo students. Notably, Land Department and others. of these monies will help prevent this Using parts of CMY-44-20, on June 19 resolution to the Office of the President the state’s attorney could not provide and future pandemics from having the Navajo Nation Council approved and Vice President.” adequate arguments in the state’s mo- Total from CARES such drastic outcomes as COVID-19.” two major immediate expenditures And despite the president’s call for tion to dismiss. Navajo leaders are now aiming for a from the Navajo Nation CARES Fund. no amendments to the bill, the Coun- Crownpoint Delegate Mark Free- Act: $714 million request to extend the Dec. 30 deadline A package totaling $134 million was cil approved six amendments, which land, chairman of the State Task Force The Navajo Nation has received a to spend the CARES Act funds. approved through Legislation Nos. removed or altered the use of $50 Subcommittee, said, “As Navajo lead- little more than $714 million from the 0132-20 and 0116-20. million for test kits, personal protec- ers, we must continue to ask the state U.S. Treasury in payments from the Speaker, prez The immediate expenditures, which tive equipment, cleaning/disinfecting of New Mexico to seriously consider federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and are the first to authorize Navajo buildings, and hazard pay. Another the success of our Navajo students. Economic Stimulus Act. continue funding jousts Nation CARES spending, are intend- amendment removed the creation of a “For every Navajo student whose On May 6, the first payment of $600 Through Navajo Nation Council ed to address personal protective three-branch Cares Act “work group,” Census number is used on applications million was received and on June 15 resolution No. CMY-44-20, known as equipment, hazard pay for front-line which would have worked to vet infra- for federal Impact Aid funding,” he a second payment of $86 million was the Navajo Nation CARES Fund Act, a responders and others, facility safety structure projects. said, “the state should be matching received. legal framework was approved for the assurance measures, relief and sup- “It’s clear that the intent of some del- those education dollars instead of Also on June 15, a U.S. district court expenditure of the funds, according to port for Navajo Nation chapter govern- egates was to gut the original legisla- working to continue operating under judge ruled that the U.S. Treasury the speaker’s office. ments and more. tion to make it unworkable so certain policies and funding mechanisms that did not have the authority to continue Speaker Seth Damon introduced that On June 25, the president’s office delegates could introduce separate don’t work for school districts that withholding relief funds intended for legislation on May 7, a day after the issued a news release commending bills that propose spending sprees in a need it the most.” tribes and ordered that remaining first deposits were confirmed, in the the Council passage of No. 0116-20 but piecemeal approach,” Nez said. “Since On June 18, the Council unanimous- amounts be released. hopes of streamlining the process of complaining that it had not yet re- Legislation No. 0116-20 was passed, ly approved a resolution that supports As a result, the Navajo Nation re- spending the entire amount of federal ceived the resolution one week later. Legislation No. 0132-20 was introduced the final determinations of the federal ceived an additional $27.2 million on relief funds by Dec. 30. President Jonathan Nez said, “Leg- and quickly approved and that reso- Impact Aid Program that the state June 18. No. CMY-44-20 enabled any organiza- islation No. 0116-20 received over 2,800 lution was quickly sent to the Office cannot use portions of the federal None of these amounts have been tion or entity to request funds to use in supporting signatures on an online pe- of the President and Vice President. funding to calculate funding offsets spent to date. COVID-19 relief or response activities tition and over 100 written supporting We strongly caution the Council not for state aid entitlements from July 1, Seth Damon, speaker of the Council, for the benefit of the Navajo people. The comments from the Navajo people, but to treat the $714 million in CARES Act 2019, to June 30, 2020. C5 THURSDAY, JULY 02, 2020 NAVAJO TIMES Phone: 928-871-1148 or 1130 Fax: 928-871-1159 [email protected] PO Box 310, Window Rock, AZ 86515

NAVAJO TIMES CLASSIFIEDS THURSDAY, JULY 02, 2020 D1

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Candidate must Vote Centers will be open on Election Day, however NEED NEW WINDOW for 190 Channels! Blaz- 5, 2020. cancy Announcement, In- following positions on our also possess a valid driv- TREATMENTS? Call ing Fast Internet, $19.99/ social distancing will be requested, and limited voters The election will be con- formation: Paul Tohtsonie, team: er’s license. 505-488-6422/23 or email: Dormitory Manager Pursuant to Governing Empire Today® to sched- mo. (where available.) will be allowed inside at one time. We will ducted by the Apache Switch & Get a FREE County Elections Depart- [email protected]. provide hand sanitizer; sanitization of $100 Visa Gift Card. FREE equipment and Poll workers will be ment. The Election was Voice Remote. FREE HD BUSINESS provided with protective gear. Wait approved by the Govern- TECHNICIAN DVR. FREE Streaming on ing Board of the Northern times may be longer. Dept. of Interior, Bureau ALL Devices. Call today! Apache County Special 1-855-722-2290 (AzCAN) Healthcare District on April of Indian Education, Fa- 30, 2020. cility Management, Fort Northern Apache County Wingate, NM. Year Long Special Healthcare District Contract. Closing date July /s/ Daniel Johnson, Chief 17, 2020. Request for Va- Executive Officer cancy Announcement, In- On behalf of the Govern- formation: Paul Tohtsonie, ing Board of the Northern 505-488-6422/23 or email: Apache County Special [email protected]. Healthcare District. Newcomb Chapter is a APARTMENTS FOR RENT Navajo Nation Certified Chapter Governmental Looking for an af- entity that operates in fordable 62+ senior Newcomb, New Mexico. apartment? Superior Newcomb Chapter is ad- Arboretum Apartments, vertising for an immediate occupancy, one ACCOUNTS bedroom & studios, on-site MAINTENANCE laundry & utility allowance. SPECIALIST Rent based on Income position. You may view the Guidelines. 199 W. Gray advertisement at the New- Dr., Superior, AZ. Call comb Chapter website or 1-866-962-4804, www.ncr. the Newcomb Chapter org/superiorarboretum. Facebook page. Should Equal Housing Opportuni- you have any questions ty. Wheelchair Accessible. and/or require an employ- (AzCAN) ment application please AUTOMOTIVE call 505-696-3400. Please send the applica- DONATE YOUR CAR tion and other relevant TO CHARITY. Receive documents to: Newcomb maximum value of write off Chapter, P.O Box 7946, for your taxes. Running Newcomb, New Mexico or not! All conditions ac- cepted. Free pickup. Call for details. 866-932-4184 (AzCAN) WANTED Old Sports- cars/Convertibles: Porsche, Mercedes, Jag- uar, Triumph/MG, Ferrari, Corvette & others! 1973 & OLDER! ANY condition! TOP $$ PAID! Call/Text: Mike 520-977-1110. I bring trailer & cash! (AzCAN) EDUCATION TRAIN ONLINE TO DO MEDICAL BILLING! Become a Medical Office Professional online at CTI! Get Trained, Certified & ready to work in months! Call 866-459-5480. (M-F 8am-6pm ET) (AzCAN) COMPUTER & IT TRAINING PROGRAM! Train ONLINE to get the skills to become a Com- puter & Help Desk Profes- sional now! Grants and Scholarships available for certain programs for qualified applicants. Call CTI for details! 855-626- 7941 (M-F 8am-6pm ET) (AzCAN) Navajo Engineering and Construction Authority is seeking a FINANCIAL HACP Paving Manager for Commercial Paving Projects throughout the 4 Corners Area Over $10K in debt? JOB DESCRIPTION: Navajo Engineering and Construction Authority (NECA) is seeking a HACP Paving Be Manager for employment at various project locations throughout the Navajo Nation. Applicants with a debt free in 24-48 months. Pay a fraction of what you Bachelors in Construction Management, or a minimum of 10 years of construction project management owe. A+ BBB rated. Call experience will be given greater consideration. Applicants must be computer literate, experience in National Debt Relief 866- word processing and spreadsheet, including Build2Win, or similar software and scheduling software. Knowledge of Hot Plant Operations, Laydown Operations, Aggregate Crushing Production/Gradations, Aggregate Base Course Finishing/Gradations and General Construction Experience. Traffic control, OSHA, ADVERTISE MSHA and Safety Trainings will be given greater consideration. Familiarity with HACP mix designs grada- YOUR tions and gradations along with Hot Plant and Laydown operational maintenance. Must have the ability to read and understand construction drawings & specifications, project contracts, purchase orders; must JOBS • have the ability to resolve discrepancies. Ensure accurate and timely reporting; Strong organizational • FOR SALE • communication skills with ability to multi-task and prioritize. Salary based upon experience. NECA offers competitive salary and benefit packages. • FOR RENT • Navajo Preference in Employment Act, 15 NTC, Chapter 7 applies. Fluency in both the Navajo and English languages is of great benefit to the applicant and the Authority. • LEGALS • Closing Date: Open Until Fill (OUF) 928-871-1148 Send Resume to: Or bring to NECA at: 928-871-1130 Human Resource Department #1 Uranium Blvd. Fax: 928-871-1159 P.O. Box 969 Shiprock, New Mexico 87420 Shiprock, New Mexico 87420 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING Email: [email protected] Please call 505.210.7070 for more Information Call: 928-871-1148 D2 THURSDAY, JULY 02, 2020 PUBLIC NOTICES NAVAJO TIMES

LEGAL NOTICES 10,000-foot-long, 30-foot-diameter (TTY). In lieu of electronic filing, the above Court, sitting within and Navajo Technical University is so- replacement project over the all bids; to be the sole judge of the emailed will not be accepted. reinforced concrete penstocks; please send a paper copy to: Sec- for the Chinle District Court, that liciting bids from qualified vendor Rio Puerco River in Lupton, AZ, suitability of the materials offered Sealed bids accepted by the due UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (4) a 1,100-foot-long, 160-foot- retary, Federal Energy Regulatory being the Court in which said Peti- for the purchase of a Skidsteer Apache County, Navajo Nation. and to award a contract for the fur- date on the RFP. Bids received FEDERAL ENERGY wide, 140-foot-high reinforced Commission, 888 First Street, NE, tion is filed, and to serve a copy of with Bucket & Implements. Proposals will be subject to all nishing of services it deems to be after this time will not be accepted. REGULATORY COMMISSION concrete powerhouse housing Washington, D.C. 20426. The first the same pleading or motion upon Bids are due at the NTU Business requirements specified in RFP No. in the best interest of the Navajo Diné College reserves the right Pumped Hydro Storage LLC nine 400-kilowatt pump-turbine page of any filing should include Petitioner or its attorneys, MASON Office. Bids can be submitted 20-05-2317LE. The RFP package Nation. to reject any and all proposals, Project No. 15024-000 generators; (5) a 1,000-foot-long, docket number P-15024-000. & ISAACSON, P.A., 104 East Az- either by U.S. postal mail or elec- will be available for download from To be Published in the Navajo whether within applicable cost NOTICE OF PRELIMINARY 120-foot-wide, 40-foot-high rein- More information about this tec Avenue, Gallup, New Mexico tronic mail before 5:00 p.m. DST the Navajo DOT website (www.na- Times June 25, July 02, 09, 16, 2020. limits, and to waive any informal- PERMIT APPLICATION forced concrete tailrace; (6) three project, including a copy of the ap- 87301. Unless an appearance is on July 7, 2020. vajodot.org), beginning June 25, . ity or irregularity in the proposals ACCEPTED FOR FILING AND water supply wells with a capacity plication, can be viewed or printed entered by you in this cause on or For more information (Bid spec, 2020 at 10:00 AM. REQUEST FOR BIDS received whenever such proposal SOLICITING of 700 horsepower each and a on the "eLibrary" link of Commis- before the above date, judgment bid requirements and bid package) A MANDATORY Virtual Pre-Pro- Secure the Services rejection or waiver is in the best in- COMMENTS, MOTIONS TO 1,800-foot-long, 36-inch-diameter sion's website at http://www.ferc. will be rendered against you by contact or refer to NTU website: posal Meeting will be held on of a Copy Editor terest of Diné College. Submitted well water supply pipeline; (7) two gov/docs-filing/elibrary.asp. Enter default. www.navajotech.edu or Thursday, July 2, 2020 at 10:00 The Office of Navajo Nation INTERVENE, AND proposal for this RFP will become new double circuit 500-kilovolt the docket number (P-15024) in WITNESS the hand and seal of [email protected] AM (local Window Rock, AZ time). Human Rights Commission is COMPETING APPLICATIONS the property of Diné College and (June 2, 2020) (kV) electric transmission lines the docket number field to access this Court on this 26th day of May, To be Published in the Navajo The Pre-Proposal Meeting will requesting for bids to secure the that connect the project switch- the document. For assistance, 2020. /s/ District Court Clerk Times June 25, July 02, 2020. consist of a brief presentation services of an editor to review the become a matter of public record, On March 11, 2020, the subject for review. Pumped Hydro Storage LLC, filed yard to the existing 500-kV and contact FERC Online Support. To be published in the NAVAJO . explaining the Project Scope and commission report on funerary 345-kV transmission lines located Kimberly D. Bose Secretary. TIMES June 11, 18, 25, and July Public Notice the necessary items required to activities. The commission report To be Published in the NAVAJO an application for a preliminary 1 TIMES July 02, 09, 2020. permit, pursuant to section 4(f) 14 miles east of the proposed proj- In its application, Pumped Hydro 02, 2020. Navajo Technical University (NTU) be submitted as part of the RFP. is in draft and 30 pages in length. ect; and (8) appurtenant facilities. Storage named the project the Na- . Invitation to Bid (IFB-2020-07) Contractors are encouraged to The Navajo Nation Human Rights of the Federal Power Act (FPA), DINÉ COLLEGE proposing to study the feasibility of The estimated annual power gen- vajo Nation Big Canyon Pumped Request for Proposal For Utility Tractor (90 HP) conduct a field review of the proj- Commission plans to present the eration at the Navajo Nation Big Storage Project. We note that the Bid Number: 20-05-2310LE OPEN DATE: June 23, 2020 ect site located 0.25 miles south report to the Navajo Nation Coun- REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL Big Canyon Pumped Storage Proj- Diné College is requesting for pro- ect1 to be located about 23 miles Canyon Pumped Storage Project proposed project is not in any way The Navajo Nation Office of the CLOSING DATE: July 7, 2020 of I-40 in Lupton, AZ on their own. cil during the 2020 Fall Session. would be 7,900 Gigawatt-hours. affiliated with the Navajo Nation Controller - Purchasing Depart- (5:00 p.m. DST) The link for the web meeting and Details about the bid information posals (RFP) for the following: west of Tuba City, Arizona. The • Tsaile GCB Business Classroom sole purpose of a preliminary per- Applicant Contact: Mr. Steve and the Navajo Nation has not ment and the Navajo Division of Navajo Technical University is so- conference call number are as such as the format of the bid, Renovation Project mit, if issued, is to grant the permit Irwin, Manager, Pumped Hydro had any role in Pumped Hydro Transportation (Navajo DOT) are liciting bids from qualified vendors follows: deliverables, please contact the holder priority to file a license ap- Storage LLC. 6514 S 41st Lane, Storage’s pursuit of this project. soliciting proposals and sealed for the purchase of a Utility Tractor. https://global.gotomeeting.com/ Office of Navajo Nation Human RFP packets are available for plication during the permit term. A Phoenix, AZ 85041 Swirwin7@ To avoid any confusion as to the bids for “Bid #: 20-05-2310LE, Bids are due at the NTU Business join/963957325 Rights Commission at: interested parties by contacting preliminary permit does not autho- gmail.com identity of the project proponent, Moenave Road, Tuba City, Aggre- Office. Bids can be submitted 1-877-568-4106, Leonard Gorman, Adrian Crosby, Procurement, rize the permit holder to perform FERC Contact: Ousmane we have omitted “Navajo Nation” gate Base Course” either by U.S. postal mail or elec- Access Code 963-957-325 Executive Director at 928-724-6686 or via email at any land-disturbing activities or Sidibe; Phone: (202) 502-6245 from the project name. Contacts for a bid packet are: tronic mail before 5:00 p.m. DST Proposal and bid package must be Office of Navajo Nation Human [email protected] otherwise enter upon lands or wa- Deadline for filing comments, To be Published in the NAVAJO 1) Sheila Clyde, Sr. Office on July 7, 2020. physically submitted to the follow- Rights Commission (Monday through Thursday 8:00 ters owned by others without the motions to intervene, competing TIMES June 11, 18, 25, July 02, Specialist Navajo Division For more information (Bid specs, ing address by July 23, 2020, no P.O. Box 129 am to 5:00 pm). owners’ express permission. applications (without notices of 2020. of Transportation – Roads, bid requirements and bid package) later than 4:00 PM (local Window St. Michaels, Navajo Nation • Prebid Meetings will vary – refer The proposed project would be intent), or notices of intent to file . [email protected]; (928) contact or refer to NTU website: Rock, AZ time): (AZ) 86515 to Project RFP for information. located entirely on Navajo Nation competing applications: 60 days IN THE DISTRICT COURT 551-7108 or (505) 371-8300. www.navajotech.edu or GGam- Navajo Division of Transportation (928) 871-7436 All interested parties must submit land and consist of the following from the issuance of this notice. OF THE NAVAJO NATION 2) Jeremy Ben, Navajo Nation [email protected] Attention: Ardaniel Begay Email: [email protected] proposals in a sealed envelope new facilities: (1) a 450-foot-long, Competing applications and notic- JUDICIAL DISTRICT OF Purchasing Department, To be Published in the Navajo Navajo Transportation Complex To be Published in the NAVAJO with the firm name and address 200-foot-high concrete arch dam es of intent must meet the require- CHINLE, ARIZONA [email protected], (928) 871- Times June 25, July 02, 2020. #16 Old Coal Mine Road TIMES June 25, July 02, 2020. clearly written on the envelope. ments of 18 C.F.R. § 4.36. ARLENE WALKER, 6316 . Mentmore, NM 87319 (Upper West Dam), a 1,000-foot- Proposals which are faxed or The Commission strongly encour- Plaintiff, Closing date is July 3, 2020, at Navajo Nation Division (505) 371-8351 DINÉ COLLEGE long, 150-foot-high earth filled dam emailed will not be accepted. ages electronic filing. Please file vs. 3:00 p.m. Mountain Daylight Sav- of Transportation The Navajo Nation Business Op- REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (Middle Dam), and a 10,000-foot- Sealed bids accepted by the due comments, motions to intervene, ANDERSON TULLIE, EMERSON ing Time (M.D.T.). Any proposal(s) Request for Proposal (RFP) portunity Act and Navajo Prefer- Diné College is requesting for pro- long, 200-foot-high concrete arch date on the RFP. Bids received notices of intent, and competing HORACE III, and QUANNIE TAX received after this date and time Bid No. 20-05-2317LE ence Act shall apply to this project. posals (RFP) for the following: dam (Upper East Dam), each after this time will not be accepted. applications using the Commis- AND ACCOUNTING SERVICES will not be accepted and will be The Navajo Division of Trans- Prospective bidders are encour- • 401(K) Plan Services, Adminis- of which would impound three Diné College reserves the right sion’s eFiling system at http:// LLC, returned to the sender. No faxed portation (Navajo DOT) is so- aged to familiarize themselves tration, Recordkeeping & Invest- separate upper reservoirs with to reject any and all proposals, www.ferc.gov/docs-filing/efiling. Defendants. or email proposals or bids will be liciting proposals to construct with these provisions. Having ments a combine surface area of 400 whether within applicable cost asp. Commenters can submit No.CH-CV-148-19 accepted. “N9402(2)1,2&3 Bridge N656 preference does not guarantee the RFP packets are available for acres and a total storage capacity limits, and to waive any informal- brief comments up to 6,000 char- AMENDED NOTICE OF SUIT To be Published in the NAVAJO Replacement Project in Lupton, award of the project. Competitive interested parties by contacting of 29,000 acre-feet at a normal ity or irregularity in the proposals acters, without prior registration, TO: ANDERSON TULLIE, TIMES June 25, July 02, 2020. AZ”. The proposed work consists Sealed Proposals under the Na- Adrian Crosby, Procurement, maximum operating elevation of received whenever such proposal 5,390 feet average mean sea using the eComment system at You or your attorney are hereby . of grading, subgrade, placement vajo Nation Business Opportunity at 928-724-6686 or via email at http://www.ferc.gov/docs-filing/ directed to file a pleading or mo- Public Notice of aggregate base course with sta- Act shall be utilized in the selec- rejection or waiver is in the best in- level (msl); (2) a 600-foot-long, [email protected] ecomment.asp. You must include tion in response to the Complaint Navajo Technical University (NTU) bilization, installation of drainage tion of the Contractor. Refer to 12 terest of Diné College. Submitted 400-foot-high concrete arch dam (Monday through Thursday 8:00 your name and contact information for Fraud, Negligent Misrepre- Invitation to Bid (IFB-2020-06) structures, bridge replacement N.N.C. §332 Competitive Sealed proposal for this RFP will become (Lower Dam) that would impound am to 5:00 pm). at the end of your comments. For sentation, Breach of Fiduciary For Skidsteer with with abutment protection, traffic Proposals. the property of Diné College and a lower reservoir with a surface All interested parties must submit assistance, please contact FERC Duty, and for Violation of Navajo Bucket & Implements signs, and other miscellaneous The Navajo Nation reserves the become a matter of public record, area of 260 acres and a total stor- proposals in a sealed envelope Online Support at FERCOnline Nation unfair Trade Practices Act OPEN DATE: June 23, 2020 work as called for in the design right to waive any formalities or subject for review. age capacity of 44,000 acre-feet at with the firm name and address [email protected], (866) 208- on file herein on or before July 15, CLOSING DATE: July 7, 2020 plans and specifications for this irregularities in the Request for To be Published in the NAVAJO a normal maximum operating ele- clearly written on the envelope. 3676 (toll free), or (202) 502-8659 2020, in the Office of the Clerk of (5:00 p.m. DST) 0.390 km (0.242 miles) bridge Proposals and/or to reject any or TIMES July 02, 09, 2020. vation of 3,790 feet msl; (3) three Proposals which are faxed or

ADVERTISE YOUR • JOBS • • FOR SALE • • FOR RENT •

Fax: 928-871-1159 Email: [email protected]

SECOND MESA DAY SCHOOL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES - POSITIONS ARE OPEN UNTIL FILLED

Principal The Principal of the school is directly responsible to the Governing Board. The Principal provides leadership in developing and maintaining the best possible educational programs and services for the students of Second Mesa Day School. Leads, guides and directs every member of the administrative, instructional, and support services department in setting and achieving the highest standards of excellence in educational programs and operating systems. Responsible for a system of supervision and evaluation for all staff designed to meet the goals of the school system. Oversees and administers the use of all facilities, property, and funds in the best interest of students and the school system. Qualifications: Must possess an Arizona State K-12 Principal or Superintendent Certification; Must possess a master's degree or higher. Minimum 3 Years of experience in educational administration. Minimum of three years of successful teaching experience. Successful performance in teaching and administrative capacities of increasing responsibility. Knowledge and familiarity with the Hopi language, culture, and people is a preferred qualification.

Teacher — Eligible for Sign-on Bonus of $2,000.00 Responsible for providing a appropriate instructional program that supports the individual needs of children con- ducive to a safe and supporting environment. Plan and conduct activities for a balanced program of instruction, demonstration, and work time that provides students with opportunities to observe, question and investigate. Qualifications: Possess a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree in Elementary Education. Must possess a VALID Arizo- na Elementary Teaching Certificate. Knowledge and familiarity with the Hopi language, culture, and people is a preferred qualification. Must successfully complete all interviews, background checks, and fingerprint clearance requirements and submit all required employment related documents and forms. For more information contact Vida Jensen-Golaway at 928-497-1006 or visit our website https://www.smds.k12.az.us/Employment