The Turtle Speaks Gyah’-Wish

Atak-iaA Wyandotte Nation Publication

Volume 25, Issue 1 www.wyandotte-nation.org February 2021

Drive Thru Christmas Page 5

Gyah’-wish Atak-ia is published quarterly for Tribal Citizens by the Wyandotte Nation at its Inside: headquarters in Wyandotte, Okla. • Donations add a bit of history to museum The Wyandotte Nation (918) 678-2297 • Holiday in Pictures 64700 E Hwy 60 (800) 256-2539 • New Tribal Citizen Enrollment Wyandotte, OK 74370 Fax (918) 678-2944

(C) Copyright 2021. All information, photographs, and other materials are copyrighted, and may not be reproduced without prior written consent of the Wyandotte Nation. Page 2 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia February 2021

Board of Directors From the Chief Billy Friend Chief...... Billy Friend Second Chief.....Norman Hildebrand, Jr. Councilperson...... Ramona Reid Councilperson...... Vivian Fink Hope in a New Year Councilperson...... Juanita McQuistion Councilperson...... Eric Lofland “Isaiah 43:18 Remember ye not the the needs within our tribal community. I hope this letter finds all doing former things, neither consider the We have a great team of employees well and that you enjoyed a wonderful who never cease to amaze me when it Holiday season. I would like to wish things of old. 19 Behold, I will do a comes to caring for and helping others. each of you a happy and prosperous new thing; now it shall spring forth; In spite of all the events of 2020, we Content New Year. shall ye not know it? I will even make have continued to make great progress We have reached the beginning of a way in the wilderness, [and] rivers on our new casino project (Crosswinds Tribal Citizen Enrollment...... 3 the New Year. This New Year, unlike in the desert.” Casino) in Park City, . We look so many others, follows a year full of to be on target for our phase 1 opening FEATURE: Donations...... 4-5 trials, change and tragedy. We are in mid to late February. The first phase Holiday in Pictures...... 5 thankful 2021 looks to be our year for to major shifts. As methods and strate- will consist of approximately 460 class Calendar...... 5 renewal, optimism and appreciation. gies change, our health care workers 2 slot machines, dining facility and bar. Tribal Department Reports...... 6-12 Throughout the last year, we worked are asked to quickly adapt to new Our economic development team has Important Numbers...... 11 together to care for our relatives, operational structure. We want them done an outstanding job keeping this Shop With A Cop...... 12 friends and neighbors. The Wyandotte to know we recognize and appreciate project on track and we are very excited Nation continues to be a Tribe that what they are doing for all of us. about this addition to our economic places our principal value on the health While we know we have not yet de- portfolio. The revenue generated by of our citizens, and all those who live feated this stubborn and deadly virus, this project will continue to help and in our communities. Our healthcare there is hope we can turn the tide support our tribal mission of “improving Editor/Design: William Swaim employees at Bearskin Clinic have gone permanently. We are now receiving the life of every tribal citizen.” above and beyond the call of duty to FDA approved vaccines and as of now All these efforts, and more, point to Cover Photo: fulfill their responsibilities in the midst we have vaccinated over 400 patients. a much happier and healthier 2021. Drive Thru Chil- of an international pandemic. We are working hard to access this We ask you to please remain mindful drens Christmas The COVID-19 virus has increased important resource for our patients as and exercise the basics of preventing Party our mindfulness of the gifts, work quickly as possible. the further spread of the virus. We are Photo by ethic and flexibility of our entire tribal I also want to commend all of our confident we will prevail in our efforts, William Swaim health care team. Our physicians and Wyandotte Nation employees across and your help is critically important. staff have been out front in this fight every department for going above and My wish, as always, is for good against the virus. Almost all the ele- beyond their normal job responsibili- health and many new years ahead for ments of health care have been subject ties this past year to make sure we met you and your family.

Contact Us From the Second Chief Norman Hildebrand, Jr. Submit a story idea or your latest news and photos. To submit, email William Swaim at [email protected] or call (918) 932-4778. Navigating the pandemic

Have News? Kweh Omateru is almost ready to be moved into, just to social Share it Hello my fellow Wyandotte Citizens, waiting on new furniture to be deliv- distance as We want to hear from you! Send us wow this has been quite a year. The ered. The completion of it has also been much. news or stories you may have or suggest COVID pandemic has pretty much affected by the pandemic with slow Enough taken center stage of everyone’s lives. manufacturing schedules or delivery of that how about some history? Since features for us to work on. It seems everything revolves around drivers testing positive for COVID, but we had an election recently this little Email: [email protected] keeping contact with people to a being a resilient people we will prevail. tidbit has to do with an election that minimum to keep from possibly being The old Administration building will happened in 1859 in the town of exposed to this terrible virus. In some become the Justice Center and will Quindaro that was founded by our instances even that didn’t work, I know house the police department and our ancestors while in Kansas. of people who took all the precautions tribal courts. Quindaro began with 13 Wyandot and still got infected. My heart felt We cancelled a lot of trips this year, Indian Allotments owned by Mathew prayers go out to all those that lost including our Town Hall Meetings. We Brown, Amelia Charloe, John B. Curley- www.youtube.com/WyandotteNation loved ones to this terrible virus. always enjoy seeing our Wyandotte head, Esquire and Eliza Grey Eyes, Abe- The Wyandotte Nation, in spite of Citizens on these trips and sharing lard and Nancy Brown Guthrie, Christo- everything happening around us, keeps with them how the Wyandotte Nation pher Hicks, John and Jane Lewis, Ethan moving ahead with many projects that is progressing. I am sure I shared with A. Long, George Peacock, George and will ensure a bright future. We finally you in the last Turtle Talk that many Mary Spybuck, John Spybuck, Ebenezer finished our waterline project after of the conferences we attend every O. and Rebecca Zane, and James C. four plus years. We managed to prevail year was either cancelled or went to a Zane. In November 1856 the Quindaro through various setbacks on the project virtual format. I don’t like the virtual Town Company was formed by an alli- www.facebook.com/WyandotteNation so with it being finished, we felt like conferences. Hopefully with the COVID ance between these Wyandot and the doing a happy dance. vaccine being administered now it will Our new Administration building be safer to travel and we won’t have See 2nd Chief, Page 3 February 2021 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 3

Merritt Elizabeth Rasor New Tribal Citizen Enrollment Daley Renae Reinhardt Kinley Jane Reinhardt 174 New Tribal Citizens Greyson Stanley Doerger Isaac Noboru James Harper Blaire Richardson Jacksyn Lee Douthit Henry Paul Johnson 6,752 Total Tribal Enrollment Gideon Luke Rieck Jonah Dean Douthitt Lillian Rose Johnson Charlie Allen Robitaille Katherine Elizabeth Ducey Stephanie Dawn Johnson Chigoziri Diane Alikor Ethan Frederick Ryan Garrett Robert Egan-Earle Paul Antic Kellogg Jenifer Mariette Sanders Jakob Hayes Allen Tyler Marie Egan-Earle Zackary Nielsen Kite Emmy Brooke Allen Jacqueline Anne Sanders Rhett Wade Ehrhart Madison Joslyn Kriegshauser Talulah Golden Audrey Sante Amy Kay Allen Gage Thomas Ellis Jodie Marie Kunkle Amiyah Leeanne Almarzan Braxtyn Lee Sapp Mason Todd Evans Lumi Aurora Landers Jude Cantrell Sapp Griffyn Oliver Aragon Gunner Kris Ewell Isabella Rayne Diane Lawson Poppy Elise Ballard Emery Lynn Sears Troy Rex Farmer Esther Ellie Laxdal Monroe McCall Sebelius Tate Beckett Barnes Samantha Michelle Farrar Elsie Estelle Lemus Jay Dryden Ragnar Blackwell Rains Alicia Lee Sloan Sidney Ann Farrar Elijah Blake Lindenburger Kayle Noel Sloan Elliett Nadine Blaeske Nora Grace Farrell Finley Rose Long William Duan Boldery Alyvia Kaye Smart Jacob Alan Ferry Parker Reed Long Rivers LaRee Smith Alexandrea Louise Boldery-Murray Lane Ronan First Benjamin Reece Manghum Eliza Cole Boomer Nathaniel Joseph Sontag Grant Reid Forshag Tiffany Leigh Martin Claytin James Sontag Sebastian Paul Boomer Grady Lee Forshag James Bodhi Martin Dylan Christopher Bozarth Persephone Kanna Souders Avery Michael Francis Braxton James Mathis Rhett Wesley Spoon Jordan Alexander Bozarth Sloane Koko Franco Rhaegar Jax Michael McCleary Katie Brianne Bozarth Emma Richel Spoon Shaylyn rianne Gammon Chloe Scout McMullin Miles Ronald Tatum Micah Adrian Brackett Charlotte Vivian Garner Poppy Jay Miller Lincoln Beau Bright Eleanor Alva Thompson Maverick Layne Steven Godfrey Sadie Mae Miller Ellis Blake Thompson Ryker Jay Brown Kallan Ray Gower Kaiden James Mitchell Jaaron Austin Bruce Jocelyn Nicole Torres McQuistion Jillian Marie Graham Leo Wilson Mlady Adyranna Laeshaylynn Donaciana Trejo Adalyn Jo Byrnes Scarlett Ann Griffo Sabina Maria Mueller Hunter Alan Chapman Brielle Nicole Tuohy Vivian Raven Grace Handley Ryland Michael Nance Rylan Nickle Tuohy Braiden Levi Clark Ashton Brett Hart Boston Brandon Neil Jeremy Douglas Clark Thomas Carl Underwood Kellen James Hart Amelia Jo Nichols Lacy Nicole VanAntwerp Weston Drake Cloninger Hadley Drew Hart Valorie Lynn Nickle Nevaeh Amara Jaelynn Conner Owen Allen Vanantwerp Graham Liam Hendricks Gwendolyn Nickle William James Vanantwerp Paisley Ann Cox Vivian Rose Henry Olivia Jade Norman Gareth Abbott Cox Henry Michael Vanantwerp Adalynn Marie Hews McKenzie Grace Norton Easton Andrew Vandiver Jacob William Coye Brayden Trevor Hews Dakota Grant Norton Evelyn Rose Curnutt Alicianna Rose Vasquez Lydia Jackalene Hews Addison Lee Nugent Ty Patrick Vaughn Aspen Raeleen Daniel Jayce Eros Hicks Doris Elizabeth Parman Kadden Lee Davies Kayley Marie Villeneuve Andersyn Kae Hilton Martha La'Cather Ann Parman Elena Joy Vreeman Ripley Aurora Davis Knox Ryan Holsapple Trenton Shaun Patterson Jamie Ryker Atreyu DeArmond Jonathan Joseph "Waters, Jr" Rhett Mekhi Hooker Madalyn Marie Patterson Daxton O'Neal Watson Kruz Rylan Dellacer Anniston Blayke Hooker Lincoln James Perry Mila Aiyana Dennis Gregory Eugene Weynand Madilynn Grace Huerta Jaxton James Perry Khloie Ryann White Gloriana Rose Deshayes Jacob Oliver Hutchins Madison Marie Pierce Eleanor Faith Divine Emma Grace Williams Allison Elaine Isaia Grayson Lane Porter Rylee Quinn Young Mason Darald Dixon Brandon Douglas James Owen Grayson Pulido-Betts

caused problems across Missouri where “Are you going out after the truth, or 2nd Chief the highest number of slave owners was are going out after something you Continued from Page 2 concentrated on the Missouri River. The House Hotel near the levee. In fact its early animosity directed at Quindaro believe?” --Richard D. Rosen New England Emigrant Aid Company location made it one of the first struc- and Lawrence made them natural tar- led locally by Charles Robinson. The tures passed by those people landing at gets and part of the towns people left for through to get to where we are today. plan was to develop a Free State port on the levee. The Wyandot presence and less exposed areas, especially after the If you want some interesting reading, the Missouri River and Quindaro had a interest in Quindaro continued through- river froze solidly enough to allow par- some of it boring, but a lot of it is very good rock landing site available. out its life. The town grew and devel- ties of horsemen to ride across whenever interesting, read William Walker’s This partnership quickly gave an oped until the financial panic of 1858, and wherever they chose. Federal troops Journal. It gives a pretty good account opportunity for Abolitionist Wyandot when the national economy slowed. were requested but they caused a great of his daily life while in Kansas. and New Englanders to work together. During the election of 1859 the City deal of destruction as they burned wood During these trying times when we In an unusual move Joel Walker, a Electoral Judges allowed two runaway parts of buildings for warmth. The next are hit with circumstances beyond our slave owning Wyandot was appointed slaves to vote in the city election which major blow to the town occurred when control, I ask everyone to reflect on President of the Town Company. Some further increased Missouri and Proslav- the County and state began selling where we came from and who we are have argued this proves the town was ery rage at the town. Eventually the property for back taxes in 1862. as a people. The hardships we endure not really Abolitionist but there are votes were disallowed at the County Eventually the tax sales, which only make us stronger, especially when numerous accounts of its involvement level, but two former slaves had voted, included taxes at their highest values, we keep a sensible head on our shoul- in the Underground Railroad. Part of a lesson they could look back on for the would transfer the vast majority of ders and do what is right to ensure the Wyandot’s sold their interests while rest of their lives. With statehood in the former town site to Reverend Eben the wellbeing of everyone around us. others such as the Browns and Zanes 1861 the need for a Free State Port was Blachley and the Freedmen’s School, Stay well and be safe. You are probably stayed on. The Browns were heavily no longer critical and the War took its which would serve as the originator of tired of hearing me say this, but I am involved with the town company itself toll in many ways. River traffic slowed Western University. proud to be Second Chief of the great- while E.O. Zane developed the Wyandot to a trickle as attacks from the shore It’s amazing what our ancestors went est Indian Nation in this country. Page 4 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia February 2021 Donations provide bit of history Cultural Center & Museum continues to gather bits of history from tribal citizens

By William Swaim Wyandotte Nation The importance of knowing history is vital to the future of the Tribe, and (LEFT) The King George III Peace one way the Wyandotte Nation Cul- Medal. (ABOVE) David and Viki tural Center & Museum is helping Keffer present Chief Billy Friend piece together the past is by accept- with the Chief Bearskin painting and ing donations from tribal citizens. Peace Medal. (BELOW) Tribal artist “The only way we will be able Brenda Lamb donated her beaded artwork of the Wyandotte Mission to put true Wyandotte artifacts in Church. our Museum is from donations and loans from Wyandotte citizens,” said Medal being offered for sale that who aligned with Sherri Clemons, Tribal Heritage had been found near Trois Rivers, the British would Director, adding that they have re- Quebec. have received this ceived roughly 200 items from tribal “I recognized it as having been medal. There is a citizens. “We will protect and guard part of our tribal history that legend that Walk- their treasures.” involved the English and several In-The-Water was so Most recently, the museum of our Chiefs that were part of the disenchanted with received donations from David and colonial struggle for independence the British that he Vicki Keffer, and Brenda Lamb. The in the early 1800s,” he said. “One threw his medal into Keffers donated a painting of Chief such medal was mentioned as being the Detroit River. Leaford Bearskin and a King George part of our Chief Walk in the Water’s In recent years, a III Peace Medal. The painting is cur- frustration with having aligned the person found a King rently hanging up, and Clemons said with the efforts of George III medal the medal has been put into storage the English. I knew I had to have it. on the shore of the for now, but will be on display soon. It took several weeks of negotiation Detroit River in Lamb, inspired by the Wyandot with the seller but we finally got it.” Quebec, Canada; it Mission Church in Upper Sandusky, The history behind the medal is was sold at an auc- , being deeded back to the this: The Treaty of Ghent, negotiated tion to a private col- Wyandotte Nation, created beaded in Belgium and signed on Dec. 24, lector. Whether this artwork to commemorate the mo- 1814, ended the with was the one given to ment the Tribe got back a piece of the British and restored territories Walk-In-The-Water, their history. to pre-war status and established we may never know. “The donations are so wonderful a commission to settle Northwest As for the Chief and a true blessing. Nice additions to Territory Boundary disputes. Both Bearskin paint- our collections,” Clemons said. “We sides claimed victory. According ing, Keffer said he do not charge to visit the museum, to the treaty, tribes were to have ran across a very so donations are very important their possessions, rights and privi- talented young because if by chance something leges restored to their 1811 status, artist by the name comes up, we can’t always afford to and tribes were required to cease of Lauren Reed. She purchase them. When treasures are all aggression against the United grew up in Norman, donated, it is so wonderful to know it States and Britain. All of the First Okla., and is of Choctaw and Chero- photos I was able to find and she came from our own people. And that Nations warriors who fought for the kee heritage. went to work in her distinctive style they are helping gather things we British were given a medal bearing “I loved her use of color in her of art on her version of our beloved can display for the future.” the image of King George III. Those paintings of Native American Chief Bearskin. Two months later I David Keffer said in late October Wyandottes at that event were Walk- notables, he said. “I contacted her was thrilled to receive the painting he was looking at one of the sev- In-The-Water, Tarhe, Roundhead, to see if she would be interested in we have today. I feel it captures the eral Facebook groups that feature Splitlog and Leather Lips as well as doing a painting of our Chief Bear- dignity, strength and vision of our northeast Native crafts and histories numerous other Native leaders at skin. When she answered with an when he saw a King George III Peace that time. All of those tribal leaders enthusiastic yes, I sent her several See DONATIONS, Page 5 February 2021 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 5

Holidays in Pictures: Drive Thru Christmas Party Tribal

The Wyandotte Nation Chil- Citizen dren's Christmas Party looked a little different this year. Santa and his helpers (pictured News below) had to brave a bit of a chilly morning to distribute gifts and goodies to tribal chil- dren via drive thru rather than the Bearskin Fitness Center Gym, where the event is usu- ally held due to COVID-19. Still there were plenty of smiles as the children were greeted by Santa as they pulled up while his Little Helpers had a gift for everyone.

Photos by William Swaim

Hunting Season COURTESY PHOTO Derald Clemons, a member of the Wyandotte Wildlife Commission, nabbed this 18-pt deer during the 2020 hunting season.

Calendar

31st Annual Pow-Wow

DONATIONS Continued from Page 4 was not lost on Lamb and it is then the Mission Church in October of last she set out to commemorate it. year. She said it allowed her to come Sept. 10 - 12 Chief Leaford Bearskin so well and “I was excited to attempt this full circle, from the capturing of the we were very happy to pass it on to meaningful tribute representing the art to visiting the historic site. Pow-Wow Golf Scramble our Wyandotte Nation for posterity Wyandotte Nation Mission Church, Clemons said the art will be on May 21 to enjoy.” I set out on a daunting task, beads display at the museum at different Memorial Day Honoring For Lamb and her beaded artwork, and paint combined on canvas. I times. May 31 it was a journey, much like the wasn’t sure it would work,” she said. She said the Museum have several Lacrosse Camp exploration of history itself. “Four months later, this beautiful different items it can accept. “We do June 22-24 “The Mission Church represents piece of artwork was laid out before request if the items are highly dam- Gathering of Little Turtles for me unwavering faith, that is me. The task was complete. My eyes aged, we may not take them. Papers June 25-27 evident in the Wyandotte Nation kept looking at it in amazement, at sometimes are in poor shape. We will Fireworks Display today,” Lamb said. “That faith led what I had created. Wondering if I look at them to judge if we can store July 2 to my existence as a tribal member. captured it correctly? Never having them. We like things that are true Gathering It makes me proud of the strength been to the Mission Church and taking Wyandotte.” it took from all the past Wyandotte inspiration solely from a 4x6 photo. If Tribal Citizens have a donation, Sept. 7-10 and the future legacy and cultural “The artwork that was created they should call the Museum and make Annual Meeting traditions of the Nation to survive as was a test that pushed my creativity an appointment to meet with staff. Sept. 11 it does today.” further than I had thought possible.” The Cultural Center & Museum is Town Hall Meetings The history of the moment, the The continued inspiration led open Monday-Thursday, 9 am to 4 TBD church being given back to the Tribe, Lamb and her husband Steve to visit pm and Fridays from 9 am to 3 pm. NOTE: All events subject to change. Page 6 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia February 2021 Tribal Department Reports

Human Resources service and food experience. She is Social Worker. and William Swaim, who will now Submitted by Deana Howard, HR excited to give back to her Tribe and She obtained her be serving in his current position as Director serve the elders. She enjoys spending Bachelor’s Degree Communications Specialist for the time with her daughters and friends, from RSU. Car- Wyandotte Nation instead of WTOK. The Wyandotte Nation Cultural having game nights and getting malita worked for Tammy has been an employee of Department is proud to welcome together with family. Ashley also OK DHS in this our entities since August 2005 and tribal citizen Chris Houk as our enjoys reading, doing art, working field. In her spare brings a wealth of Tribal Heritage outside, working out, cooking and time, she enjoys knowledge with Specialist and movies. We are very fortunate to spending time with her. She gradu- tribal citizen Beci have Ashley. her family having ated from Seneca WARD Wright as our new cookouts or din- High School, and Cultural Research- The Wyandotte Nation Police De- ners. She also enjoys beadwork. We attended Crowder er. partment is proud to welcome Ronnie are very fortunate to have Carmalita College. She enjoys Chris has worked Gilmore as the join the Wyandotte Nation and wish playing piano, deco- as a firefighter/ new Police Chief. her much success in her new posi- rating, and sewing EMT and has Ronnie began his tion. in her spare time. almost 30 years of law enforcement LANDRETH Tammy also loves HOUK volunteering with career as an officer The Wyandotte Nation Educa- spending time with state and national with the Wyandotte tion Department is very happy to her family, shopping, and watching parks where he did historical inter- Nation. He has welcome Grace Gorda as a Childcare football and baseball. We are happy pretation and research. He also has more than 11 years Assistant, and Lorri Bowers, who to have Tammy join our team. over 20 years of experience creating of law enforcement joined the Wyan- William has been the Communica- historical footwear and clothing. He experience includ- dotte Nation first tions Specialist for WTOK Economic enjoys spending time with his wife GILMORE ing Tribal Law as an After School Development since doing projects around their home Enforcement. In Childcare Assistant March of 2013. and traveling. He likes spending his spare time he enjoys spending and has transferred William has his time with his four children and two time with his family, playing music to an Infant Care- bachelor’s degrees grandchildren. His hobbies include and spending time on the lake. Ron- giver position. in Science (Jour- cooking, particularly Italian and Ca- nie says coming back to Wyandotte Grace comes to nalism and Mass jun, reading, researching family and feels like coming home. He is very us with over five Communications) tribal history, hunting, and shooting excited to serve our community and years’ experience and Arts (English) sports. We are very fortunate to have citizens. We wish him much success and loves work- from University of GORDA Chris and wish him much success in in his new position. ing with children. Nebraska-Lincoln. this new position. The Wyandotte Nation Police Grace transferred from one of our He enjoys spend- Beci has library, museum, and Department is also proud to welcome other entities. In her spare time SWAIM ing time with his teaching experi- back tribal citizen she enjoys spending time with her family as well as ence. She enjoys Denton Ward. Den- family, baking, cooking, and photog- kayaking, camping, reading, watch- spending time with ton looks forward to raphy. We are very fortunate to have ing football and basketball, and pho- her dogs, Lola and serving the people Grace on our team and wish her the tography. We are excited to welcome Rico. Her hobbies and community of best of luck in her new position. William and wish him continued are gardening, Wyandotte. Denton Lorri worked in Turtle Tots when success in this position. reading, and learn- worked with the it first started opened and is excited ing the language. Wyandotte Nation to be back. She enjoys spending Linda Barclay has joined the Title She is excited to as a Summer Youth time reading and VI Department as a Substitute. start this new posi- Employee with the being on Facebook. Linda has an As- WRIGHT tion because she WARD Nation Police De- Lorri loves spend- sociate’s Degree will get to pursue partment, and went ing time with her from MSSU and a things Chief Bearskin and herself on to receive his CLEET certification. family. She has Bachelor’s Degree discussed years ago. We are very He has experience in Law Enforce- been married for 38 of Arts from West- fortunate to have Beci and wish her ment on the Tribal, State, Municipal, years and has three ern New Mexico much success in this new position. and Federal scale. He also served children and eight University. Linda one year with the Sheriff’s Office. grandchildren. works part-time for The Wyandotte In his spare time, he enjoys hunt- We are happy to State of Nation Title VI ing, fishing, and spending time with BOWERS have Lorri join the doing Adult Protec- friends. We are very fortunate to Education Depart- tion Services, and Department is very BARCLAY happy to welcome have Denton rejoin the Wyandotte ment and wish her much success in retired from full tribal citizen Nation and wish him much success her new position. time with them in 2015. She recently Ashley Webb as a in his new position. moved back to Oklahoma from New Food Service Team The Wyandotte Nation Adminis- Mexico and just completed building a Member/Delivery The Family Services Department tration Department would like to home in Wyandotte. We are pleased Driver. Ashley has is very happy to welcome Carmalita welcome Tammy Landreth to her WEBB previous customer Ward. Carmalita will serve as ICW new position as Executive Assistant, Continued on Page 7 February 2021 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 7 Tribal Department Reports

Continued from Page 6 to have Linda and wish her much try on our team and wish him much for the new Administration complex. baugh and Dana Butterfield will be success in her new position. success in this position. The past nine months have been primary contacts for all other social Moli attended MSSU for 3 years a bit of a whirlwind for the Family service programs, tribal enrollment The Bearskin Healthcare and and studied Services Department, which I’m and the Supplemental Health pro- Wellness Center is very happy to English Educa- sure has been the same for most all gram (aka Benny card). Lisa Arnold welcome Jenna Lyons, RN, and tion. She has been of our tribal citizens. There have is the Domestic Violence/Sexual tribal citizen Slade Botts, RN, as a Substitute for been so many changes that our staff Assault Advocate Supervisor and PRN Clinic Staff. Joplin and Neosho and tribal families have had to deal Cesilie Hale is a DV/SA Advocate. Lyons has a nursing degree and Schools for 1 year. with and it doesn’t appear things The Tribe also received a new Office is certified in Surgical Technology. In her spare time, will be going back to our old notion of of Victims of Crime grant and are in She has worked she enjoys spend- “normal” any time soon. Tribal staff the process of hiring a third program in healthcare for ing time with her have worked diligently to continue Advocate. All Advocates provide ser- approximately six family, friends and providing services throughout the vices to victims of domestic violence, years. Jenna enjoys kittens. She also pandemic, to the best of our ability, sexual assault, stalking, dating LEWIS spending time with enjoys scrapbook- while being mindful of CDC guide- violence and human trafficking. her family and ing, traveling, exploring new areas, lines. The new Advocate will also provide friends and any exercising, and she loves to cook. We There was a great turnout for the services to victims of Elder abuse. outdoor activi- are very fortunate to have Moli on drive-thru Children’s Christmas In the remainder of this article, ties. We are very our team and wish her much success party with 169 children participat- you will find information about some fortunate to have in this position. ing. Santa was there to spread cheer of the programs offered through LYONS Jenna on our team and several of the littles were able the Department. For a full list of and wish her much The Wyandotte Nation Gaming to get pictures with him (see pic- programs and information, please success in her new position. Department is very happy to wel- tures elsewhere in this newsletter). visit our website at www.wyandotte- Slade worked for us previously as a come Nicholas Manning. Nicholas Each child received a comfy blanket nation.org under the Community/ Summer Youth for several summers. will serve as our with the turtle emblem and a $25 Family Services tab. He has his Bachelor’s Degree in new Background Walmart gift card. Tribal parents As always, it’s our pleasure and Psychology and his nursing degree. Investigator/Com- also received a $25 gift card. honor to serve the Wyandotte people In his spare time, pliance Officer for Unfortunately, we must postpone and if there’s ever anything we can he enjoys hunting, Park City. Nicholas the 2021 Town Hall meetings. The do for you please don’t hesitate to fishing, and playing comes to us from meetings had been rescheduled from contact us. video games. Slade 7th Street Casino 2020 for California. We will continue also enjoys spend- in Kansas City, to monitor the situation and consider Winter Programs: ing time with his fi- Kansas where he hosting them later in 2021. This is Winter Clothing – Began Nov. 1st ancée Haylee, a lot has been since disappointing for tribal staff, as we and ends Feb. 28th for all enrolled of time spent with MANNING 2019. Nicholas enjoy hosting the meetings as much Wyandotte Nation children age 18 nieces, nephews, brings with him a as our citizens enjoy attending them, (grade 12) and under who reside in and siblings. We wealth of knowledge. He graduated but we also want to keep everyone OK, MO, AR and KS. Reimburse- BOTTS are very fortunate from Dollarway High School in Ar- safe and healthy. ment program or Walmart gift card to have Slade on kansas. He has a Bachelor’s Degree Family Services programs continue our team and wish him much success of Business Administration from to expand. To help keep up with Continued on Page 8 in his new position. Henderson State University. Nicho- the increased duties we are in the las enjoys running and jeep watch- process of adding two staff members The Bearskin Fitness Center is ing. We are very fortunate to have to our team and have done some re- very happy to welcome Gentry Stelle Nicholas on our team and wish him structuring within the Department. TAG REMINDERS: and Moli Lewis as Fitness Front much success in his new position. Tiffany Garner will now be the Tag • Must be an enrolled citizen of the Desk Assistant/Childcare Providers. Administrator and be the primary Wyandotte Nation, an Oklahoma Gentry graduated from Fairland contact for any questions regarding resident AND the car must be prin- High School, attended NEO A&M vehicle title/registration. cipally garaged in Oklahoma Indian for 2 years, and is Family Services Carmalita Ward is our new Indian country. currently attending Child Welfare (ICW) worker. Carmal- • Oklahoma Insurance Verification Oklahoma State Submitted by Dana Butterfield, ita comes to us from the Oklahoma must accompany renewals (except University. In Family Services Director Department of Human Services with for RV’s and Travel Trailers). his spare time he nearly eight years of experience in • If you are purchasing a new/used enjoys music, mov- Hopefully by the time you are social work. She is an enrolled mem- vehicle, the Tribal citizen’s name ies, video games, receiving this publication we will ber of the Seneca-Cayuga Tribe and MUST be on the Title at the time of graphic design, have moved into our new offices! is also by blood. She brings assignment. Wyandotte Nation Tax video production, We’ve actually enjoyed our time in with her a wealth of child welfare and Commission staff CAN NOT add or and digital art. the “Little House on the Rez,” but ICW knowledge. We’re thankful to delete names. STELLE Gentry spends time we’re also excited to move into our have her as part of our team! For questions, please call watching YouTube, new space. Be sure to watch the Tara Gragg will continue in her (918) 678-6353 editing videos, and playing games. website and Facebook for an official role as ICW Supervisor and LIHEAP We are very fortunate to have Gen- announcement for a ribbon cutting program manager. Leeanna Rada- Page 8 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia February 2021 Tribal Department Reports

Continued from Page 7 Other Programs provided by the mytrustmark.com , by calling Trust- nizations providing education and for $100 per student. Applications, Family Services Department: mark at 800-990-9058 ext 42086 or awareness about these issues. along with guidelines, are available Child Safety Seats - Each child via the mobile app. If you have a February is Teen Dating Violence on the home page of the Tribal web is eligible for three seats in different smart phone I strongly encourage Awareness month and April is Sexual site. Please note there are separate sizes and can be picked up at the you to download and use the app. Assault Awareness month. Be sure to applications for the gift card and tribal office. With the app you can see balances, follow their Facebook page information reimbursement program. If you did Promoting Safe & Stable Fami- file claims, see purchases/expenses, about program activities and outreach/ not return your gift card receipts for lies/Indian Child Welfare – This see if any receipts are required and awareness information. If you are either the School Supplies or last program is funded through a federal scan items to see if they are an eli- currently involved in an unhealthy year’s Winter Clothing, you will be grant from the Administration for gible expenses. A flyer with informa- relationship, please reach out to Lisa, required to use the reimbursement Children and Families and is de- tion to setup the app can be found on regardless of where you live. If you program this year. signed to help keep children in their the homepage of our website. aren’t in an area where we can provide Senior Energy - $100 assistance homes with their family or ensure Burial Assistance - $1,500 to be services she can put you in contact paid directly to the utility provider. that if there is a need for removal paid to the funeral home or to the with someone who can help you. Available to all enrolled citizens that federal guidelines are adhered family representative if the funeral nationwide age 55 or older. to and the best interest of the child is paid in full. Family Services Staff: LIHEAP – LIHEAP is a federal is first and foremost. If your family Family Violence Prevention Director, Dana Butterfield 918-678- grant funded program, if funding is is in a situation where the state is Program: The Wyandotte Na- 6319, dbutterfield@wyandotte-nation. received, services will be available involved, please contact one of the tion receives grants from the Of- org beginning Dec. 1st for tribal citizens Tribal Social Workers. fice of Violence Against Women, ICW Supervisor, Tara Gragg 918- residing in Oklahoma. This program Enrollment – Aug. 15th is the Office of Victims of Crime and the 678-6355, tgragg@wyandotte-nation. is income based and proof of income deadline to be considered for enroll- Administration for Children and org is required, along with other re- ment at the 2021 Annual Meeting. Families to help support victims of ICW Worker, Carmalita Ward, quired documentation. Applications must be submitted domestic violence, sexual assault, [email protected] APPLICATIONS FOR THE along with an original state certified dating violence, stalking and sex Tag Administrator, Tiffany ABOVE WINTER PROGRAMS birth certificate. trafficking within a 25-mile radius Garner, 918-678-6353, tgarner@ MUST BE RECEIVED OR POST New Enrollee Benefit - Each of the tribal headquarters. A victim wyandotte-nation.org MARKED BY FEB. 28TH TO BE application received prior to a child’s is not required to be Wyandotte or Family Services Specialist, Lee- ELIGIBLE. BILLS/RECEIPTS first birthday will receive a $100 Native to receive services from this anna Radabaugh, 918-678-6329, MUST BE DATED BETWEEN Walmart gift card and a blanket program. Services offered include [email protected] OCT. 1, 2020 AND FEB. 28, 2021. embroidered with the Tribal Turtle. advocacy, court accompaniment, DV Advocate/Educator, Lisa Tribal Tags – Available for tribal assistance with obtaining protective Arnold, 918-678-6324, lisaarnold@ The following are programs run citizens who reside in Oklahoma. orders, relocation expenses and other wyandotte-nation.org throughout the year for residents in Passenger, RV, Motorcycle and basic needs. The Domestic Violence DV/SA Advocate, Cesilie Hale 918- OK, MO, AR, KS. Applications must Handicap tags are available. Proof Advocate/Educator regularly makes 678-3269, chale@wyandotte-nation. be received or postmarked by Sept. of residency is required. Please call presentations to schools and orga- org 30th: the office for prices and additional Elders Assistance – One-time information. As mentioned above, expense for $250 for tribal elders Tiffany Garner, will be the main con- aged 55 and over. tact for this program, 918-678-5353. Wyandotte Nation Extra School Expense/Extra- Supplemental Health Benefit curricular Activities – One-time (Benny Card) – New Wyandotte Family Services Programs payment of $100 per student aged Nation citizens should have received Dates to Remember pre – K (at least 3 years old) through their Benny cards in December along 12th grade. with any replacements for cards that Jr/Sr Benefit - $250 benefit for have expired. The new cards being Elder’s Assistance: Oct. 1 – Sept. 30 expenses associated with the Junior sent are now blue in color. All ac- Senior Energy - Winter: Oct. 1 – Feb. 28 and Senior years of High School. counts were loaded Jan. 1, 2021 and Senior Energy - Summer: July 1 – Sept. 30 Fuel Assistance –Fuel assistance the benefits are the same as previous LIHEAP - (if available) Winter: Dec. 1 – Feb. 28 programs include: Hardship – per- years with a $1,000 per year benefit LIHEAP - (if available) Summer: July 1 – Sept. 30 sonal hardships, travel for work/job for adult (18 and over) tribal citizens. interviews, etc; Medical – travel to/ Tribal citizens who have enrolled School Supplies: July 1 – Sept. 30 from doctor/dental appointments and Wyandotte Nation dependents will Children’s Winter Clothing: Nov. 1 – Feb. 28 pick up prescriptions; Major Medi- receive an additional $1,000 for a Extracurricular Activities: Oct. 1 – Sept. 30 cal – extreme medical issues (must maximum of $2,000 per account. Jr./Sr. High School Assistance: Oct. 1 – Sept. 30 be life threatening, terminal, etc. not Please keep in mind that this benefit Wyandotte Nation Annual Meeting: Sept. 11 chronic medical issues) that require is only for enrolled citizens of the Na- multiple trips outside of the local tion and is not to be used for spouses, Children’s Christmas Party: Dec. 11 area. Program provides fuel vouchers stepchildren, etc. through the Turtle Stop convenience Quarterly statements are mailed Note: All applications must be in our office or post marked on or before the store for local tribal citizens or tribal by Trustmark to show remaining last day of the program. citizens who travel to the Bearskin balances, but account balances can Healthcare and Wellness Center. be obtained at any time via www. February 2021 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 9 Tribal Department Reports

Education programs duration. Submitted by Cristi Hudson, Edu- • Deadline for spring submission is Elders Christmas Dinner Drive Thru cation Director Feb. 15. • Deadline for fall submission is Kweh, May 1. Wyandotte Nation is now pro- viding services under Public Law To obtain an Undergraduate or 102-477, which allows us to combine Masters Scholarship application that certain formula-funded federal Wyandotte Nation offers, you can grants into a single plan. Our goal email your request or any ques- is to create safe and stable families, tions that you may have to Evan raise educational achievement, Hotulke, our Education Specialist at develop and enhance employment [email protected]; or opportunities, integrate employment by calling his office at 918-678-6331. and training services, and increase Wyandotte Nation Honor Stoles: self-sufficiency. Wyandotte Nation’s Wyandotte Nation honor stoles are 477 Plan services all counties within distributed to graduates of a post- a 100-mile radius from our Tribal secondary institution. Tribal citizens Headquarters in Wyandotte, Okla. may request a stole by contacting the Services provided under the 477 Education Department and supply- Plan include: job training and work ing proof of filing for graduation. Elder Services Our Valentine Dinner will be experience, educational assistance, Children enrolled in the Wyan- Feb. 11. and childcare assistance. Eligibility dotte Nation Child Development Submitted by Brenda House, requirements: Center are currently attending Elder Services Director CAREGIVER • Complete, singed, and dated preschool Monday through Thurs- (Suspended due to COVID-19) application day, with childcare for school age Well here we are in 2021 and The Caregiver Support Group • Member of a federally recognized children available daily along with still continuing to serve drive thru meets the first Thursday of each tribe childcare for all children offered and home delivered meals only month in the Artie Nesvold Com- • Selective Service Registration on Fridays. Our infant, one-year Monday-Friday. Some meal sites munity Center (Title VI) Safe Card old, and two-year old programs are are only serving drive thru two Room beginning at 10:30 am. This • Proof of residency in Service operating Monday through Friday. If days per week. Congregate meals group is for all current and former Area you have a child, ages 3-5, and live nationwide have all been suspend- caregivers. It is also for Grandpar- in the Wyandotte, Okla. area, we are ed until this crazy virus gets under ents raising grandchildren. Additional required documents accepting applications for the upcom- control. In spite of it all we have will be needed once you are placed ing preschool year. Applications still been able to have some fun It is always a pleasure serving with a service. You may request an are available by emailing Lindsay times as the Elders drive through the Wyandotte Nation Citizens. application to apply for any of our Cooper at lcooper@wyandotte-nation. to get their meals. There are Please feel free to call us anytime. 477 services by emailing wn477@ org or you can request one by calling several that bring their little fur wyandotte-nation.org or by calling Lindsay at 918-678-3267. Our Infant, babies with them and they get so Department Contacts: Kasey Lewis at 918-678-3268. One-year old and Toddler programs excited when they get a treat. We Brenda House, Elder Services The Wyandotte Nation Scholar- are currently full. You may contact have one particular fur baby that Director, (918) 678-6327. ship Program is currently processing Lindsay to request an application to started coming in with his daddy Stephanie Hamilton, Food spring 2021 semester scholarships. get your child on the waiting list. when he was just a tiny puppy and Service Team Supervisor, (918) If you are currently on the scholar- is almost grown now. One day I got 678-6328, (Office) 6390 ship program, you will need to email, The Wyandotte Nation Historical so excited to see him that I took Seth Higginbotham, Chris mail, or fax our Education Specialist Library is currently open during his treat out and forgot to take his Rhodes, Robyn Beaty and Ashley Evan Hotulke your latest transcript. the Covid-19 pandemic. The hours daddy’s meal out to him. Lol! Webb, Food Service Team Members Your transcript will need to include are Monday through Thursday 8 Looking forward to seeing you all (918) 678-6328 your fall 2020 grades and your am to 4:30 pm and Friday 8 am to again soon! Menu, (918) 678-6326 spring 2021 schedule. 3:30 pm. There are lots of new books and DVDs on the shelves with more Here are a few Wyandotte Nation arriving soon. Be sure to let our Undergraduate Scholarship remind- Librarian, Madeline Harnar, know if Education Department Contacts: Madeline Harnar – Librarian 918- ers: there is a certain book or movie you Cristi Hudson – Education Director 678-6332 or mharnar@wyandotte- • Undergraduate scholarships are would like to see added to our col- 918-678-6334 or chudson@wyan- nation.org limited to eight (8) semesters. lection. Madeline’s email address is dotte-nation.org Evan Hotulke— Caseworker/ • Students will be placed on proba- [email protected], and Sami Butterfield – Caseworker/ Education/Employment Specialist tion for failure to complete 12 hours her office phone is 918-678-6332. Childcare Specialist 918-678-6330 or 918-678-6331 or ehotulke@wyan- or more with a minimum of a 2.0 We are available to assist you with [email protected] dotte-nation.org GPA. the application process in any of our Lindsay Cooper – Early Childhood Kasey Lewis – Intake Clerk 918- • Students will be allowed one programs and we look forward to Program Coordinator 918-678-3267 678-3268 or klewis@wyandotte- probationary semester during the working with you soon. or [email protected] nation.org Page 10 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia February 2021 Tribal Department Reports Important Housing Submitted by Kathy DeWeese, you, and Title VI (Elder food pro- water and proper sanitation facili- Numbers Housing Director gram) and Bearskin Clinic are close ties for our tribal families. These by. If you are interested, please fill services include drilling wells, Police Department Wyandotte Nation has accepted out an application and return to the installing septic systems, rural water hook-ups, and connections Ronnie Gilmore (918) 678-6365 a bid from Whitewing Construc- housing office. to city water and sewer. There are [email protected] tion Company to build two family Nahasda (Native American Hous- duplexes and three family homes. ing and Self-Determination Act) is no income guidelines. Tribal mem- bers must reside in the following Family Services / Enrollment The duplexes will be located in the program governed by the Depart- the Heritage Aces neighborhood, ment of Housing and Urban Develop- counties: Craig; Creek; Dela- Dana Butterfield (918) 678-6319 and the homes will be in the new ment (HUD). Each year a Housing ware; Mayes; Nowata; Okfuskee; [email protected] Wyandotte Ridge development. The Plan must be submitted and ap- Okmulgee; Ottawa; Rogers; Tulsa; Leeanna Radabaugh, (918) 678-6329, lrada- projects should be underway by this proved by HUD. This plan provides Wagoner; Washington. [email protected] spring. for the upkeep of Nahasda units, Tags If you are interested in renting, rental assistance to college students Department Contacts: Tiffany Garner (918) 678-6353 please fill out an application and re- and down payment assistance, as Kathy DeWeese-Housing Director [email protected] turn to the Housing Office. Federal well as the day-to-day activities of Don Graham- Housing Specialist Domestic Violence Program income guidelines apply. the Department. Paul Parker- Project Coordinator Lisa Arnold, (918) 678-6324, lisaarnold@ If you are 55 and older, our Levi Griffin- Project Coordinator wyandotte-nation.org; Cesilie Hale, (918) 678- senior housing may be for you. The IHS -121 Program Larry Hamilton- Residential 3269, [email protected] duplexes are all two bedroom, are This program is funded through Maintenance Technician Indian Child Welfare equipped with appliances and a the Department of Health & Human Drew Lankford-Residential Tara Gragg (918) 678-6355 garage. All yard work is done for Services to ensure safe drinking Maintenance Technician [email protected] Carmalita Ward, [email protected]

Human Resources Deana Howard (918) 678-6320 Tribal Heritage [email protected] language related questions should to purchase new cemetery software Nutrition & Caregiver Services Submitted by Kim Garcia, Cul- be directed to Beci in order to help that will allow us to better serve trib- Brenda House (918) 678-6327 tural Preservation Officer coordinate our efforts and identify al citizens and the community. She [email protected] our needs. is also planning on hosting pow-wow Education / Library / Child Care Since October, the Cultural Divi- Another goal is to provide classes dance classes beginning this sum- Cristi Hudson (918) 678-6334 sion has been busy preparing for and events on a regular basis. While mer. Later this year, the first phase [email protected] 2021 and the future. The Cultural COVID-19 has prevented in-person of a Veteral Memorial Wall will be Tribal Heritage Researcher position was created – re- gatherings, it has also forced us to rolled out. Sherri Clemons (918) 678-6344 sponsible for research, language, and transition more to online meetings Beci is working with Dr. Wicks [email protected] and classes. Fortunately, this allows and University to digitize Environmental / Planning / Development genealogy. We were fortunate to hire tribal citizen Beci Wright. Another more tribal citizens to be involved in the Wyandotte collection there and Christen Lee (918) 678-6341 [email protected] position opened up when Courtney cultural events. Currently, Facebook add it to our Wyandotte Heritage Housing Cummings, the Tribal Heritage is the main avenue we are utilizing Digital Archives (WHDA). These Kathy DeWeese (918) 678-6339 Specialist, transferred to the Educa- to inform, teach, and promote all digital archives will eventually be [email protected] tion Department as a teacher. We things cultural. We are working to- available to all Wyandotte citizens. hired another tribal citizen, Chris ward a better platform for our events She is also working with Dr. Kopris Houk, to fill that position. Both Beci that will allow more tribal citizens to on our Waⁿdát language. She created Bearskin Healthcare & and Chris immediately got to work. be involved. an excellent Holiday Booklet with Wellness Center The Cultural Division, along with Through Facebook Live, we have language and other cultural informa- Kelly Friend (918) 678-3259 the Cultural Advisory Board, spent hosted beading classes. These are tion and activities for our Wyandotte [email protected] some time creating our strategic plan recorded and posted for future children at the Christmas party. She Clinic Appointments for the next three to five years and reference. Also through Facebook, is working on a basic wordbook that Dee Dee Clapp (918) 678-3228 we are so excited! we have had contests such as “Adorn will be helpful for all of us wanting [email protected] Dental / Vision One of our goals is to promote Your Mask” and “Ornament Con- to learn more of our language. Beci Ashley Crawford, (918) 678-3222, and employ Wyandotte citizens in test.” We plan to continue these is restructuring the library in the [email protected] all capacities, including those that contests to encourage participation Wyandotte Nation Cultural Center Pharmacy (call-in only) preserve and promote our traditional and learning new skills. On Jan. 9, and Museum so that it will be used (918) 678-3244 ways. We have determined that the we had our winter story telling via as a research library. She is also Fitness Center language program is a priority in Zoom. It was an amazing event with working on the “Ancestors Project,” Sharon Bartley (918) 678-3231 working toward that goal. Beci will participants from Hawaii, Califor- which will be tribal genealogy. [email protected] work closely with our linguist, Dr. nia, Washington, Texas, Missouri, Chris has studied the best way Contract Health Craig Kopris, in order to continue Kansas, , Washington DC, to teach how to make traditional Bridget Hart (918) 678-3227 the important work of preparing and Canada, and more. This event was pucker-toe moccasins. He is current- [email protected] revising curriculum for tribal citi- recorded and will be posted soon. ly researching more about wampum. Diabetes Clinic zens and the community. Beci and We are settling into the near year He spent time learning and condens- Donna Spaulding (918) 678-3258 Chris will work together to teach the with new projects. Sherri is working [email protected] curriculum that has been created. All on the tribal cemeteries. Our plan is Continued on Page 11 February 2021 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 11 Tribal Department Reports

Continued from Page 10 of the Tribe…and to promote in any surrounding community. By imple- ing our timeline and is preparing other way the general welfare of the menting this program, it has greatly various classes and crafts that can Indians of the Wyandotte Nation.” reduced the amount of recyclable be taught in the classroom. We have To carry this mission forward in products ending up in landfills, road- partnered with Seneca Schools and our tribal community, the Planning side ditches, and area waterways.” Chris and I will be teaching various and Natural Resources Department The Planning and Natural Re- crafts, history, and language of the provide a variety of services includ- sources Department is also dedicated Wyandotte people this quarter. For ing, but not limited to, private well to researching and applying for this summer, Chris is researching drinking water sampling and septic federal, state, and foundation grants and planning for a traditional gar- assessments for private home own- to benefit the Tribe and tribal com- den. We will have a 3 Sisters garden, ers. We also encourage and provide munity. Projects often serve Tribal and also hope to start growing our a place to recycle. Lost Creek Recy- citizens within a 50-mile radius of own tobacco, sage, and sweet grass. cling Center is open to the commu- tribal headquarters; however, some Teresa is currently working on up- nity and surrounding area Monday formula funded grants may serve dating the Senior Turtles Gift Shop. through Thursday from 8 am to 4:30 citizens within a 100-mile radius. Unfortunately, for almost a year, the pm and 8 am to 3:30 pm on Friday. Ultimately, the department’s desire Senior Turtles have not had a chance The facility can accept the following that attended the event. to serve and create a positive impact to meet in order to work on the shop. materials: paper, plastic, cardboard, November seemed to fly by and on all Wyandotte’s across the United We are thankful she has also been tin and aluminum. Christmas was upon us before we States. Selecting grants is based able to help out Elders Services most Department staff has been busy looked up at the calendar. Staff not upon community and departmental days with meal distribution. fulfilling the day-to-day duties only continued their normal duties, needs as well as the availability of We would love to hear from you required to meet deliverables in our but attended several online meetings funding opportunities. with any other ideas or requests for PPG Grant (GAP, Water and NPS and webinars. future classes or events. combined). Thankfully, we were able Wyandotte Nation has eight water to attend two outreach events. On monitoring sights on local creeks Department Contacts: Future Events: Oct. 24th, Kathleen Welch helped and nearby rivers that are sampled Director Christen Lee, clee@wyan- (We will advise if any need to be with the Ottawa County Hazard- each month. Our department also dotte-nation.org cancelled due to COVID-19 within a ous Household Waste Event, which monitors several private wells. All Environmental Program Manager month of event) was held in Miami, Okla. A total of these monitoring sights provide Kathleen Welch, kwelch@wyandotte- Pow-Wow Golf Scramble May 21 of 63 cars came through the event, valuable information regarding the nation.org Memorial Day Honoring May 31 of which 21 were tribal residents. health of both surface and ground Environmental Technician 1 Janice Lacrosse Camp June 22-24 Each vehicle was given a goody bag water for tribal members and local Wilson, [email protected] Little Turtles June 25-27 with environmental information and citizens. Environmental Technician 2 Brittany Independence Day Fireworks July 2 giveaways. Crowe, [email protected] Gathering Sept. 7-10 Meet the Department Recycling Center Coordinator John Pow-Wow Sept. 10-12 Each newsletter provides you with Quick, [email protected] names, information, and duties per- Land Management Technician Robby Ways to contact us and stay involved formed by our department. We will Graham, [email protected] with Culture: begin highlighting a different staff Water Utilities Operator Braulio, Facebook: Wyandotte Nation Cul- member each quarter. This quarter Ramirez [email protected] tural Center we are showcasing Grant Writer / BIA Self-Governance Twitter: @nation_center Kathleen (Kathy) Coordinator Debbie Dry, ddry@ Tižamęh! Welch. wyandotte-nation.org Thank you! Kathleen has Grant Writer 2/ 477 Coordinator We collected a total of 7,126 worked for Wyan- Michael Lowery, mlowery@wyandotte- Department Contacts: pounds of hazardous waste from this dotte Nation for nation.org [email protected] event, which is great success as it 24 ½ years. She [email protected] keeps hazardous waste from ending has worked in the [email protected] up in a land fill or dumped along a Environmental [email protected] rural county roadside ditch. Every Department for the [email protected] participating resident thanked the past 23 years. Mrs. Healthcare workers and they were very appre- Welch started out as the Water Tech- Submitted by Kelly Friend, Health ciative. nician and became the Department Services Director On Nov. 6th, department staff Manager a couple of years ago. Planning & Natural participated in a Drive Thru Elders “I have witnessed a lot of growth I hope this letter finds you healthy, Health Fair at Grove, Okla. Janice for both the department and Wy- happy and welcoming 2021! There Resources Wilson, Brittany Crowe, and Kath- andotte Nation. One of the most has been so much uncertainty this leen Welch prepared shopping bags tangible is starting up the recycling past year with fear, anxiety and Submitted by Christen Lee, Envi- made from recyclable materials, with program within tribal offices, con- frustration all around us. These ronmental & Planning Director environmental information about struction of the Lost Creek Recycle challenges have not gone unnoticed. recycling, drinking water, surface Center, which provides a huge We, here at Bearskin Healthcare & Wyandotte Nation’s mission is, water and septic systems, and service to not only Wyandotte Nation “To advance the standard of living handed the bags out to the elders and its members, but also to the Continued on Page 12 Page 12 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia February 2021 Tribal Department Reports

Continued from Page 11 services being enhanced with the Wellness Center, want to reassure Tribal Police Department addition of a drive thru pharmacy you that we are here for all your and additional clinic space being health and wellness needs. Whether added. Construction bids are ex- it be releasing some frustration in Shop With A Cop pected toward the end of January the gym or stopping in for a wellness and I hope that we will see ground check-up, vaccination, behavioral Due to COVID-19, the Wyandotte Nation Tribal Police breaking this spring. Our tribal health services or ill visit, we are Department officers and volunteers weren't able to take community is plagued with a higher committed to providing healthcare of the kids shopping this year in the annual 'Shop With A Cop' predisposition toward diabetes, heart the highest quality to tribal citizens program, however, the WNTPD helped 26 Families (87 kids) disease, depression, and hyperten- and the community we serve. have a Merry Christmas this year! sion. Patient volume and patient In this past year we have made ad- needs are increasing annually. Per ditions to better serve you. On Sept. Michael Lowery, Grant writer, “The 1, physical therapy services began Bearskin Clinic Expansion Project is here on site. A benefit coordinator, one project of the Wyandotte Na- compliance officer and a Wyandotte tion Strategic Plan long-term goals Nation Community Health Repre- and objectives, which serves as a sentative (CHR) were added to the roadmap for enhancing our com- staff. These positions, among others, munity’s viability. Our proposed have been vital during the COVID Public Facility and Improvements pandemic, both in testing and vac- project is the 2,275 sq. ft. expansion cinations. of our health clinic, which will be a John G. Bearden joined our staff wood-framed structure on the north in November as the clinic compliance side of Wyandotte Nation’s Bearskin officer. John is a licensed Pharma- Clinic located on tribal trust land. cist, Navy Veteran The expansion of the facility will also and a graduate include a drive thru pharmacy on the of the University east side of the clinic with a canopy. of Oklahoma. He The canopy will provide convenience has worked in the enjoys traveling role within a local as well as protection during inclem- healthcare industry and spending time casino. She enjoys ent weather.” for over 20 years with her grandchil- spending time with As mentioned before, COVID vac- and comes to us dren. Renee, too, her children and cinations are underway. Currently with an extensive has played a funda- her grandchildren, we are scheduling appointments for: background in mental role in our attending all their • Established patients age 65 and BEARDEN the Indian Heath vaccination clinic. sporting events older Care arena. In his With a background regularly. She • Established patients, over the spare time, John enjoys hunting, in phlebotomy and is a member of age of 18, with underlying medical fishing and playing music. He also nursing, she filled Mountain Movers conditions, including diabetes, high enjoys spending time with his wife ZUMWALT a void in assist- CAMERER Church in Grove blood pressure, liver disease, stroke, and three children. John is excited ing John with this and has a passion asthma or immunocompromised to work with the staff at Bearskin clinic. Between the two of them, for outreach ministry to the home- Clinic and is honored to get to help they have ensured safety and com- less and poor. In her free time, she The next group served will be provide care to the community. fort through this COVID pandemic. loves crafting and all watersports, other established patients, in which Upon John’s arrival, he hit the She is always willing to offer her as- especially kayaking. Like the others, we hope to begin scheduling mid- ground running. He was named sistance. She accomplishes all tasks she has had a primary role in vac- February. the coordinator over our COVID-19 with great initiative and with a posi- cinations. She is the individual that vaccination clinic, and participated tive attitude. Renee’s duties will be has been responsible for calling those Department Contacts: in countless hours of listening ses- providing an extension of the clinic that meet the phase one criteria for Kelly Friend, Director 918-678- sions, webinars and workshops over into the community. This role will eligibility of the vaccine and schedul- 3259 anything and everything there is to evolve more in the next few months, ing. She keeps up to date with the John Bearden, Compliance Officer know about the Moderna and Pfizer beyond the vaccination clinic. immunization cards and necessary / Vaccines 918-678-6482 vaccinations. He is responsible for Janet Camerer, Benefit Coordina- paperwork needed to stay in com- Sheryl Hogan, Business Services all the reporting of immunizations to tor, joined us in June of 2020, after pliance. I have been consistently Manger 918-678-3226 the CDC. In addition, John’s duties being in a temporary role. She impressed by both Janet’s attitude Ashley Crawford, Eastern include oversite of lab and pharmacy coordinates patient benefits and toward her work and her work Liaison / Dental, Optometry, Audiol- services. additionally assists as a pharmacy performance on the job. Her inter- ogy 918-678-3222 Renee Zumwalt, Community technician, when needed. Janet personal and communication skills Bridget Hart, Purchased/Referred Health Representative (CHR), joined has a degree in animal science, have allowed her to develop produc- Care 918-678-3227 our staff in November as well. She specializing in poultry science. She tive working relationships with both Deana Sweatt, Pharmacist 918- is a Wyandotte tribal citizen and has worked for multiple years in the patients and our staff. 678-3247 worked in the healthcare field for dietary supplement industry before I am optimistic that 2021 will Refills, Automated Pharmacy Refill over 13 years. In her spare time, she moving into a Human Resources have further positive impacts on Line 918-678-3244