TUCCÊNENNATIVE AMERICAN JOURNALISM ASSOCIATION ANDTHE SOCIETY MVSKOKE OF PROFESSIONAL NEWS JOURNALIST AWARD WINNING PUBLICATIONPAGE 1

OCT 15, 2020 | “OTOWOSKVRAKKO” BIG CHESTNUT MONTH | VOL. 50, ISSUE 20

MUSCOGEE STAFFING SOLUTIONS HELP WITH CARES ACT APPLICAITON ADDITIONAL STAFF HELPS IN PROCESSING APPLICATIONS Lani Hansen tion adding 20 temporary staff bers working. SENIOR REPORTER reporting,” Partridge said. Every Monday, there is “Fourteen of those staff were someone who is compiling data designated to work on pro- from the week before over the OKMULGEE, Oklahoma– cessing applications. Six of the number of applications pro- Muscogee (Creek) Nation staff were designated to work cessed through finance for Acting Secretary of Com- in the call center.” payment. As of September 25, munity and Human Services Some of the staff members there was 2,436 income sup- Shawn Partridge provides an in both groups are currently port applications and 2,476 update on the CARES Act out of office, so it has slowed hardship applications that funding for citizens. down the process of review- were approved. CARES Act Nutgraph: MCN COVID Specialist Brigham Bert and other “On September 21, we ing applications and answer- “The data and informa- staff members continue working on processing applications for the CARES threw a partnership in contract ing calls. Currently in the call Act funding. (Lani Hansen) with Muscogee Staffing Solu- center there are two staff mem- FUNDING - 2 CITIZEN URGES FAMILIES TO STEP UP AS THE TRIBE SEARCHES FOR FOSTER FAMILIES ONE CITIZEN URGES MORE INDIGENOUS FAMILIES TO BECOME FOSTER PARENTS Angel Ellis Director of Children and “That is something we are REPORTER Family Services Kimmie Wind taught, to help,” Townsend Hummingbird says will help Edwards said. “It turned out OKMULGEE, Oklahoma the department provide stable to be a very good thing for my — MCN is searching for qual- homes for foster children. son as well.” ified foster families who can For Townsend Edwards, “He was an only child and help take care of Indigenous just wanting to help was not it was so good to have this children in an effort to bolster enough. family environment because services for the MCN Children “My family instilled in he had not had that connec- and Family Services after the me to have a servant heart,” tion with a brother or sister.” SCOTUS decision that reaf- Townsend Edwards said. “But She noticed how much they firmed the MCN Reservation they also taught me to go played together and gave her Boundaries. Mvskoke citizen beyond that if you can help, family extra fulfillment. and current foster parent Ann you have to do something.” “I didn’t ask my son what he Mvskoke citizen Ann Townsend Edwards talks about the process of be- Townsend Edwards says the She first became a foster thought in the beginning, but coming a foster parent as a single mom. (MN File Photo) process is not as intimidating family when one of her own I do recommend talking with as most people might think. family members was in need. biological children about the One of the first myths she cess is not that difficult. For Recent legislation has She said she was not sure what decision because it does have wanted to dispel for those Townsend Edwards, who is a passed through the tribes would pan out but that she an affect on them as well,” considering becoming a tribal single parent, there was never National Council that MCN immediately said yes. Townsend Edwards said. foster family is that the pro- FOSTER- 2 OBSERVERS LEARN ABOUT DIFFERENT PIPESTEM LAW FIRM ATTORNETY TO PLANTS GROWING ON LAND SERVE ON THE EDITORIAL BOARD MCN CONSERVATION DISTRICT HOSTED THIRD PLANT ID FIELD DAY SPENCER TORBETT FILLS THE SECOND SEAT FOR MVSKOKE MEDIA’S EDITORIAL BOARD Lani Hansen SENIOR REPORTER Lani Hansen SENIOR REPORTER

OKMULGEE, Oklahoma– The Muscogee (Creek) Nation OKMULGEE, Oklahoma- Natural Resource Conserva- Mvskoke Media’s Editorial board tion District hosted a plant seats three members, the first identification field day outside member was appointed by Princi- Morris, OK on Sept. 24. pal Chief David Hill, who was the According to MCN Con- Executive Director for the Native servationist Julie Norem, the American Journalist Association plant ID day is to help pro- Rebecca Landsberry. The second ducers and land owners under- spot has now been filled with the Attorney Spencer Torbett will be stand what is growing on their MCN National Council’s appointee sitting on the Editorial Board. land. In partner with MCN Spencer Torbett. (Submission) Conservation District the Muscogee (Creek) citizen Tor- State Soil Health Coordina- The field day was an opportunity for producers to learn more about the bett, is from Okmulgee where he is was different for what they expect tor for Oklahoma Conserva- current and historical values in plants. (Clinton Sinclair) an attorney for Pipestem Law Firm from the board now. The legislation tion Commission Amy Seiger out of Tulsa, OK. This law firm NCR 20-007 states one of the board added, the field day gives them identified. Poison ivy has a farming practices. specializes in tribal law and advo- members must have a background in an opportunity to give more nutritional value for goats. “The plant has a value to cates benefits for the tribes. They tribal law. information about the plants The boneset plant, blooms late endangered monarchs, it gives also help represent tribes in differ- “Being on a media board is on the that are growing in current and it provides a nutritional them nutritional sources as ent areas. outside scope of what I normally do,” and historical value. value for insects. they are migrating back to Torbett went to high school at Torbett added. “But I am excited to “Part of the soil health pro- “The heads of the bone- Mexico for the fall,” Seiger Morris, then he attended Okla- get to learn and work with Rebecca gram is teaching and edu- set was used for reducing added about the goldenrod. homa State University for his under- Landsberry who was the other pick. cating diversity in our land- fever, and a Muscogee (Creek) To identify a plant, they grad. After getting his degree from So it’ll be a new experience.” scapes,” Seiger said. “We can member said it was used for have their own characteristics OSU, he studied law at the Univer- As a board member, Torbett incorporate some of the Native bone injuries long ago,” Seiger for one and that is how con- sity of Tulsa. has recognized Mvskoke Media’s uses for the plants, and give stated. servationists are able to tell Torbett was appointed by the reporting. He believes the goal is to economic value to our produc- Norem added the rabbit plants apart. There are some National Council and will serve a build the best support system for the ers for keeping the plants.” tobacco plant had some histor- resources to help with identi- two-year term. media to continue to report news. Some of the plants being ical and cultural significance fying plants such as Roadside “I was contacted by Representa- He also hopes to build a solid foun- studied on that day was the for medicinal purposes. She Plant ID for Oklahoma Plants, tive William Lowe, he asked if I’d dation for Mvskoke Media. broomsedge, poison ivy, bone- found the rabbit tobacco plant mobile apps like Google Lens like to consider serving. I told him I Torbett was happy when they set, rabbit tobacco and golden- had a maple syrup scent to it. and Picture This. would be happy too,” Torbett said. had asked if he would serve on the rod. The goldenrod plant, accord- “Most plants grow in sea- Torbett previously served on the board. The broomsedge has some ing to Seiger they saw a reduc- sons,” Seiger said. “What’s first iteration of the board before it The final board member will grazing value but not as much tion in its production when was disbanded. The way the legisla- be decided between Torbett and as the other plants that were spraying out with traditional PLANT - 2 tion was written for the first board Rebecca Landsberry.

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FUNDING PLANT FOSTER children for about a year. she would not be where she Continued from Page 1 Continued from Page 1 Continued from Page 1 “You get so use to doing was today without having that things for them and with foster family to care for her, them and having them there and she’s an attorney now.” tion are compiled weekly,” great about our partnership a question as to whether she and when they left the home “She told me the thought of Partridge said. “As of Sep- between the districts, the could do this. seemed so quiet,” Townsend not having foster homes where tember 25, we have expended commission and soil health “People come in and help Edwards said. “I had to get our children can go, live and $2,372,000 in hardship appli- program is teaching producers with everything from taking out of the house to distract us.” be taught the culture, is very cations funding. We also paid to mimmick mother nature.” the kids for visitations, doc- But one of the things that scary to her because there is out $3,643,000 in income sup- The conservationists tor’s appointments, and really stayed on her mind was the possibility that those chil- port.” encourages producers to keep even child care,” Townsend that this is something we do for dren might never come back to With temporary staffing a large diversity of different Edwards said. “Foster chil- the parents too. She said that our tribe.” being added in the last full plants for each season to mim- dren’s childcare is always the time can be determined by Townsend Edwards said week of September, they had to mick mother nature. When taken care of.” how the parents progress and she worries for the older chil- take time to go through train- that happens it will feed the “Case workers help make by the court system. dren when they try to come ing. Looking forward, Par- soil, nutrition for ourselves those arrangements. You “I think it’s deeper than back to the tribe and feel dis- tridge said they have seen ben- and help clean the water. aren’t flying by the seat of just caring for a child its connected and do not know efits from having additional This field day was the third your pants when caring for a about helping a whole family,” how to fit in. capacity to assist. With addi- one for Conservation District foster child.” Townsend Edwards said. “I’ve seen these shows where tional staffing, they are hoping and Commission, two years Townsend Edwards says She like many foster par- these teenagers are aging out to see an increase of processing ago the first one was held in that employees are always ents at times need a break of the system and don’t have a applications. Okmulgee County then last great about giving potential to herself, or time to attend place to call home around the The hours of operation in year it was in Hughes County. families plenty of informa- a funeral. For those situa- holidays,” Townsend Edwards the call center is from 9 a.m. to They are trying to branch out tion prior to the application tions respite care is available. said. “It re-lit a fire and I 4 p.m. and it is closed for lunch and have one all around MCN process. She said that they are Foster parents can be tempo- wanted to do something, even from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. boundaries. good about helping a person rary for a week or a weekend, if it is by helping one child at “That allows time for a fol- “We have good turnouts for qualify. to give other full-time families a time.” low-up with any of the case these events, you learn some- “There is a background a break. She felt that foster homes workers either in the morn- thing new every year,” Norem check, and it is a thorough “You can even just be an probably have love for these ing or afternoon,” Partridge said about the field day. check,” Townsend Edwards emergency placement, who can children but having a tribal added. “We do want to re-it- Seiger added, if the tribal said. “But if you think about be the place a child stays until family who is connected sets erate that even when we had community is interested in it, you are being entrusted a fulltime parent is found,” them up for better skills to fit six people working in the call more education about plant with the care of these children Townsend Edwards said. into their own communities. center, there was still a wait ID to reach out to the local and they want to make sure Townsend Edwards took “I feel like taking care of time.” conservation district who they are safe.” a break after her first year children is part of cultural The deadline for applica- will direct them to the right She said a lot of prepa- of being a foster parent. She preservation, but nobody can tions are set for December 15. resources. ration is focused on safety. needed the time to process take care of our children like For more information call For more information call Things like smoke detectors whether or not she wanted to we can,” Townsend Edwards the Coronavirus CARES Act MCN Conservation District and keeping household clean- continue with fostering chil- said. “The best reason to hotline, at (918) 549-2440. at (918) 549-2609. ers out of reach of children, dren. become a foster family is having plug covers or restrict- “One of the things that because non tribal homes ing access to a pool is import- really solidified the deci- cannot give our children their ant. sion to continue was being clan family, and without that Townsend Edwards said it approached by someone who clan family they can become can be difficult because there confided in me that they were separated and are left hanging really is an emotional attach- a foster child at one time,” out there.” ment. She experienced it Townsend Edwards said. “She “I don’t want any child to when she had her first two told me that she really felt that ever feel that.”

rizing the principal chief to execute Sponsored by Rep. James Jennings. MCN Housing intends to develop a Master License Agreement with Motion adopted 15-0. the property by selling lots therein Hart Intercivic to provide hard- This will allow the MCNDH 0.75 acres or larger. The Nation ware, software licenses and support access to certain hardware and soft- must submit a Final Plat and exe- services to the Muscogee (Creek) ware products and services to help cute an Owner’s Certificate, Deed The Regular Session is held the every fourth Saturday of the month via Nation election board. Sponsored provide quality health care services of Dedication and Restrictive Cov- teleconference. (MN File Photo) by Rep. James Jennings. Motion to the members of the MCN. enants and submit both documents adopted 15-0. TR 20-154 Resolution con- to the Board of County Commis- MCN NATIONAL The MCN Election Board has firming the nomination of Amberly sioners for Okmulgee County for a need to shift to a completely in Proctor to serve on the MCN Elec- approval. COUNCIL PREPARES FOR house managed and operated elec- tion board. Sponsored by Rep. TR 20-159 Resolution autho- tion process. The board has iden- James Jennings. Motion postponed rizing the principal chief to exe- THE COMING FISCAL YEAR tified Hart Intercivic as the vendor 15-0. cute a Memorandum of Agree- NATIONAL COUNCIL CONFIRMS NOMINATIONS ON MVSKOKE that can assist with this need and Motion postponed indefinitely. ment among the U.S. Army Corps will provide hardware, software, TR 20-155 Resolution autho- of Engineers, Mobile District, the MEDIA EDITORIAL BOARD AND CEMETERY ADVISORY BOARD licenses, and support services. rizing the principal chief to execute Alabama State Historic Preser- Morgan Taylor TR 20-152 Resolution approv- a sponsored Agreement Adden- vation Officer, ad the Advisory firming Robert A. Hardridge to ing the United States Department dum with Oklahoma State Uni- Council on Historic Preservation REPORTER serve on the Cemetery Advisory of Health and Human Services, versity to extend the time period regarding the Emergency Stream- Committee. Sponsored by Rep. Administration for Children and for the previously awarded Second bank and Shoreline Protection James Jennings. Motion adopted Family general terms and condi- Chance Act Smart Reentry Grant. Project, Tuscaloosa County, Ala- OKMLUGEE, Oklahoma 15-0. tions mandatory formula, block Sponsored by Rep. Anna Marshall. bama. Sponsored by Rep. Joseph – The Muscogee (Creek) Nation Robert A. Hardridge con- and entitlement grant programs for Motion adopted 15-0. Hicks. Motion adopted 15-0. National Council meeting was held firmed. the promoting safe and stable fam- The MCN Reintegration Pro- Severe streambank and shore- Sept 26 via teleconference. NCR 20-006 Resolution ilies formula funds for the Mus- gram was awarded grant money line erosion are currently exposing The National Council adopting the rules of procedures of cogee (Creek) Nation’s Children from the United States Depart- and displacing human remains and addressed the following legisla- the National Council. Sponsored and Family Services Adminis- ment of Justice Office of Justice artifacts, washing away a section of tion, the interpretation of which is by Patrick Freeman, Jr.; co-spon- tration. Sponsored by Rep. Anna Programs for the Second Chance McGowan’s Bluff and impacting attributed to language in the bills: sored by Representatives Joyce Marshall. Motion adopted 15-0. Act Smart Reentry Program on a portion of the Mound D feature NCA 20-075 Law approv- Deere, Robert Hufft, James Jen- The MCN CFSA has Oct. 1, 2016. Due to COVID- at the Moundville Archaeologi- ing a continuing budget ordinance nings, Adam Jones III, Anna Mar- been awarded formula funds of 19, the Nation wants to extend cal Park and the University of Ala- snd providing for appropriations shall, Mark Randolph. Motion $636,578.00 by the U.S. DHS, the time period of agreement with bama’s Office of Archaeological and authorization for expenditures adopted as amended 15-0. Administration for Children and OSU to March 31, 2021. Research has requested assistance for FY 2021. Sponsored by Rep. The Internal Affairs Commit- Families to expand child abuse and TR 20-158 Resolution approv- from the Corps to design and build Robert Hufft. Postponed during tee has reviewed the Rules and Pro- prevention services through educa- ing the Final Plat Berryhill Acres erosion resistance measures along Extraordinary Session on Sept 24. cedures and has made amendments tion, support at-risk families, safe- and authorizing the execution of the Black Warrior River. Motion adopted 15-0. for the National Council to review guard children, provide diligent the Berryhill Acres Owner’s Cer- TR 20-160 Resolution autho- Due to the State of Emer- and consider for approval. searches for relatives, and assist tification, Deed of Dedication rizing the principal chief to execute gency and casinos shutting down, NCR 20-007 Resolution con- with professional development. and Restrictive Covenants. Spon- a Memorandum of Understanding the Nation is still in the process of firming Spencer Torbett to serve TR 20-153 Resolution autho- sored by Rep. Thomasene Yahola with the Federal Bureau of Inves- finalizing budgets. The McGirt on the Mvskoke Media Editorial rizing the principal chief to exe- Osborn. Motion adopted 15-0. tigation for the Tulsa Safe Trails case has also affected many depart- Board. Sponsored by Rep. William cute a Master Purchase Agreement The MCN owns a tract of land Task Force. Sponsored by Rep. ments and funding is being evalu- Lowe. Motion adopted 15-0. between the Muscogee (Creek) in Okmulgee County that has been Travis Scott. Motion adopted 15-0. ated. Spencer Torbett confirmed. Nation Department of Health and surveyed, staked, and platted into NCR 20-005 Resolution con- TR 20-151 Resolution autho- World Wide Technologies, LLC. Blocks, Lots, and Streets. The REGULAR - 3

THE MVSKOKE MEDIA The Mvskoke News is an editorially independent publication. Its purpose is to meet the needs of the tribe and its citizens through the Rita Courtwright, Managing Editor | [email protected] dissemination of information. Reprint permission is granted with credit to The Mvskoke News unless other copyrights are shown. Like MM on Facebook: Lani Hansen, Senior Reporter | [email protected] Facebook.com/MvskokeMedia Editorial statements appearing in The Mvskoke News, guest columns and readers’ letters reflect the opinion of the individual writer and not Angel Ellis, Reporter | [email protected] Follow MM on Twitter: those of The Mvskoke News, its advisors or the tribal administration @MvskokeMedia and are subject to editorial discretion. Editorials and letters must be Morgan Taylor, Reporter | [email protected] signed by the individual writer and include a traceable address or Follow MM on Instagram: phone number to be considered for publication. Please contact our Jerrad Moore, Multi-Media Producer | [email protected] @MvskokeMedia office for deadline of submissions to be considered for inclusion. The Clinton Sinclair, Videographer | [email protected] Visit MM online at: Mvskoke News reserves the right to edit all submissions for space, style MvskokeMedia.com and grammar. Receipt of submissions does not obligate The Mvskoke Gary Fife, Radio Specialist | [email protected] News in any regard. The Mvskoke News is mailed from Stigler, Oklahoma to all enrolled , Mvskoke Markets | [email protected] Chelsie Rich Muscogee (Creek) citizens’ households upon request. Inquiries should be directed to Mvskoke Media. Breanna Dawson, Advertising & Sales |[email protected] Native American Journalist Association Members of the Native American To submit a change of address or a letter to the editor, call: 918-732- Pauline Randall, Project Specialist/Layout | [email protected] Journalists Association 7720 or email: [email protected].

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REGULAR TR 20-169 Resolution allow- vices, Administration for Children in the amount of $10,200.00 for to protect patient health records Continued from Page 2 ing the principal chief to exe- and Families, Promoting Safe and the MCN Department of Health ($590,941.00) and the Light- cute grant awards and cooperative Stable Families formula funds for Annual Pink Party. horse to purchase a CCTV camera agreements with General Terms the benefit of the MCN Chil- NCA 20-067 Law appropri- system with 75 cameras throughout The mission of the Task Force and Conditions for fiscal year 2021. dren and Family Service Admin- ating funds for the MCN Agri- the Nation’s complex and six metal is to identify and target for prose- Sponsored by Rep. Robert Hufft. istration. Sponsored by Rep. Anna business Program – Dustin Ranch detectors and six metal detecting cution criminal enterprise groups Motion adopted 15-0. Marshall. Motion adopted 15-0. operations. Sponsored by Rep. wands ($254,999.00). responsible for drug trafficking, The MCN receives numer- MCN CFSA was awarded Thomasene Yahola Obsorn. NCA 20-071 Law amending money laundering, alien smug- ous grants awards and coopera- $636,578.00 in grant funds. The Motion passed 15-0. Title 26, entitled “Judicial Branch/ gling, crimes of violence such as tive agreements from various fed- formula funds will be used to Dustin Ranch is in need of an Courts” Sponsored by Rep. Ran- murder, aggravated assault, robbery eral agencies annually. The U.S. expand child abuse and prevention appropriation ($293,336.00) to dall Hicks. Motion adopted 13-2- and violent street gangs. government required that all fed- services through education, sup- continue operations for the fiscal 0. TR 20-161 Resolution autho- eral funding awards adhere to the port “at risk” families, safeguard year 2020. The law and the amendment rizing the principal chief to execute Uniform Administrative Require- children, provide diligent searches NCA 20-068 Law amending specify what will take place in the a Quote and TASER 60 Terms and ments, Cost Principles, and Audit for relatives and assist with profes- MCNCA Title 37 2-203 to alter case of an appointment for a special Conditions with Axon Enterprise, Requirements known as the Uni- sional development. the distribution of funds Sponsored judge and vacancies arise in district INC. for the MCN Lighthorse form Guidance. NCA 20-064 Law authorizing by Rep. Lucian Tiger. Motion court trails. Department. Sponsored by Rep. TR 20-171 Resolution autho- a budget modification in excess of adopted 15-0. NCA 20-078 Law authorizing Robert Hufft. Motion adopted rizing the execution of a Notice of ten percent for the emergency man- The MCN Department of the expenditure of a U.S. Depart- 15-0. Grant and Agreement Award with agement department fiscal year Health is in a position to self-fund ment of Agriculture Farm Pro- The Lighthorse Police Depart- the United States Department of 2019 budget. Sponsored by Rep. its tribally funded fiscal year 2021 duction and Conservation Funds ment has a need to equip its officers Agriculture, Natural Resources James Jennings. Motion adopted budget. It is in best interest of the awarded from the U.S. Department with tasers, cartridges, and batter- Conservation Service, awarding 15-0. Nation to temporarily alter the of Agriculture, Natural Resources ies in order to protect our citizens funds to the MCN Conservation The Emergency Management Health Services Fund of distribu- Conservation Service for the Bene- and the general public. The Quote District. Sponsored by Rep. Wil- Department requests this modifi- tion of gamin revenue to fund the fit of the MCN Conservation Dis- and TASER 60 Terms and Con- liam Lowe. Motion adopted 15-0. cation in order to reallocate certain operations of the tribal govern- trict. Sponsored by Rep. William ditions must be submitted to pur- MCN Conservation District funds to meet grant match require- ment. Lowe. Motion adopted 15-0. chase from Axon. was awarded the U.S. Depart- ment for the Federal Emergency NCA 20-069 Law authoriz- The MCN Conservation Dis- TR 20-162 Resolution autho- ment of Agriculture Farm Pro- Management Agency 47 award ing the expenditure of the U.S. trict was awarded $58,000.00 rizing the Nation to accept a deed duction and Conservation Grant EMT-2020-PC-0005. Department of Homeland Security based on a match of $136,848.42 for a tract of land in Muskogee in the amount of $58,000.00. The NCA 20-065 Law amending FY 2020 Tribal Homeland Secu- from currently appropriated funds. County, Oklahoma. Sponsored funds will be us to strengthen the NCA 07-073 (Law authorizing a rity Grant Program for the benefit The grant funds will be used to by Rep. William Lowe. Motion conservation partnership between special appropriation to the MCN of the Department of Health and strengthen the conservation part- adopted 15-0. the Natural Resources Conserva- health system for the Fifth Annual Lighthorse Police Department. nership between the Natural In 1914, the MCN donated tion Service and the MCN while Pink Party, an annual health educa- Sponsored by Rep. Robert Hufft. Resources Conservation Service 157 to Bacone College for the pur- advancing Oklahoma’s leadership tion activity of breast cancer aware- Motion adopted 15-0. and the MCN while advancing pose of education Native Ameri- in conservation. ness). Sponsored by Rep. Lucian MCN Health and Light- Oklahoma’s leadership. cans. Bacone College has decided NCA 20-063 Law authoriz- Tiger. Motion adopted 15-0. horse were awarded $845,940.00 The MCN National Coun- to return the land to the MCN at ing the expenditure of the Depart- National Council is to appro- to be used for the Department of cil meetings and agendas can be no cost and continue to operate. ment of Health and Human Ser- priate and approve tribal funds Health to enhance cyber security viewed at www.mcnnc.com. COMMITTEE PASSES LEGISLATION REGARDING THE MCN CONSERVATION DISTRICT FUNDING FOR THE MCN CONSERVATION DISTRICT WILL GO BEFORE NATIONAL COUNCIL AFTER PASSING IN COMMITTEE MEETING

Lani Hansen the bills: vationist position salary. This also Service for the benefit of the Mus- SENIOR REPORTER OKMULGEE, Oklahoma TR 20-171 Resolution autho- helps the MCN strengthen the cogee (Creek) Nation conservation – A Muscogee (Creek) Nation rizing the execution of a notice partnership with the U.S. Dept. district. Sponsored by William National Council Land, Natural of Grant and Agreement Award of Ag, NCR. The grant is being Lowe. Motion, do pass 4-0. Resources and Cultural Preserva- with the United States Depart- changed from a two-year grant to This law expends a years worth tion Committee meeting was held ment of Agriculture, Natural a five-year grant. of the funds mentioned in TR Sept. 26 via teleconference. Resources Conservation Service, NCA 20-078 Law authorizing 20-171; which funds a portion of All passed legislation is subject awarding funds to the Muscogee the expenditure of a U.S. Depart- the MCN Conservationist salary. to the full council approval during (Creek) Nation Conservation Dis- ment of Agriculture Farm Pro- For a full audio of the MCN the regular session. trict. Sponsored by William Lowe. duction and Conservation Funds National Council meetings and National Council LNC Committee LNC addressed the following Motion, do pass 4-0. awarded ($58,000.00) from the agendas visit www.mcnnc.com meeting is held via teleconference. legislation, the interpretation of This grant will provide a por- U.S. Department of Agriculture, (MN File Photo) which is attributed to language in tion of the funding for the Conser- Natural Resources Conservation

MUSCOGEE NATION DEP ARTMENT OF HEALTH ESTABLISHED 1970

“Everyone gets angry, it’s human nature.” This is a true statement that I’ve heard many say over the years. The problem is when they are telling me this, it’s usually when they are justifying their unhealthy anger response (aggression, threatening, breaking something, and/or violence).

Everyone will have moments or situations that will trigger a response of anger. There is nothing wrong or unhealthy with getting angry. It becomes wrong when the emotion of anger turns into physical or emotional harm to others or self. So, this raises the big question, “how do I not let my anger get out of control?” For some people this is fairly easy but for most it is much harder.

Emotional Management is a term that has been going around for some time but what does it really mean? Does it mean I can make me feel what I want and the feeling goes away or I just don’t let my feelings get to me? I wish it was that easy. A part of Emotional Management is learning how to manage your emotions through identifying triggers. Now this may sound fairly easy but it takes quite a bit of e ort.

Throughout the day we experience “straws” (events, situations, or circumstances) that can either add to or trigger an anger response. Often, we are really not aware of all the little things that pile up that can feed our feelings of anger. Then when one thing happens, we blow up and lose it. Some refer to this as the “straw” that broke the camels back.

Recognizing the “straws” is a big key to anger management. One of the best ways to do this is answer these questions daily. What events happened today: that made me feel out of control where someone did not do what I wanted them to do where I had to do something, I did not want to do that stressed me that made me feel overwhelmed that added to my worry, fear, anxiety, frustration Write each of these down and read it back to yourself. Doing this helps you become more aware of your unconscious straws when they happen. Recogni- tion creates moments to be aware of what usually happens unconsciously. Once noticed it gives the opportunity to do something about it so it does not get piled on the proverbial camels’ back.

This suggestion is where most struggle with follow through. The usual response I get is “It all sounds good but actually taking time to answer these questions and read them out loud daily is not something I think I will do”, “I don’t have the time and it takes too much e ort” or “This is the way I am”.

The reality is, these are justifying statements to not put forth the e ort to make changes. Strength only happens when resistance is applied towards our struggles, challenges, and adversities. A part of emotional management is realizing these struggles and then doing what is needed to make a positive change--apply a positive resistance. This means it will take a concentrated e ort and may not feel good at rst. A good example is if you wanted to strengthen your muscles you have to apply resistance with weights and exercise. At rst you will feel sore and want to quit but after a while you start to see the positive change.

We will discuss more in the next article on how to lower your anger responses so you don’t blow up.

If you or someone you know is struggling with anger, anxiety, worry, fear, stress or depression and need to talk to someone, please contact Muscogee (Creek) Nation Behavioral Health at 918-758-1910. / Text “Creek” to 741-741 if you or someone you know is in crisis or call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline Number at 1-800-273-8255. MVTO

• P.O. BOX 580 - OKMULGEE, OK 74447 • 918.732.7720 • MVSKOKEMEDIA.COM • @MVSKOKEMEDIA PAGE 4 THE MVSKOKE NEWS ÔSTEN MCN CONTINUES TO CELEBRATE BREAST CANCER SURVIVORS THE 18TH ANNUAL PINK PARTY WILL BE ONLINE THROUGHOUT OCTOBER

A Muscogee (Creek) Nation Na- Lani Hansen A Muscogee (Creek) Nation tional Council Health, Education SENIOR REPORTER National Council Business, Justice, and Welfare and Land, Natural and Finance Committee meeting Resources and Cultural Preserva- was held Sept. 26 by teleconfer- tion Committee meeting was held ence. (MN File Photo) OKMULGEE, Oklahoma- Sept. 22 by teleconference. Muscogee (Creek) Nation (MN File Photo) Annual Pink Party will be COMMITTEE CEMETERY ADVISORY doing virtual events this year APPROVES FEDERAL for those who are wanting to COMMITTEE SEEKS attend. GRANT AGREEMENT MEMBERS According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation FEDERAL GRANT FUNDING CITIZEN ROBERT A. HARDRIDGE website, October is Breast AGREEMENT REQUIRES COUNCIL WAS SELECTED TO SERVE ON Cancer Awareness month. APPROVAL FOR TRIBAL FUNDING This annual campaign was CEMETERY COMMITTEE developed to increase aware- Angel Ellis ness of breast cancer. MCN REPORTER Lani Hansen has been hosting the Pink SENIOR REPORTER Party since 2002, in honor of breast cancer survivors. OKMULGEE, Oklahoma “We usually have a lunch, - A Muscogee (Creek) Nation OKMULGEE, Oklahoma vendors are set up, different National Council Business, — A Muscogee (Creek) Nation speakers come and talk about Finance and Justice Committee National Council Health, Educa- the importance of self-breast meeting was held Sept. 26 via tele- The Pink Party honors and celebrates breast cancer survivors while educat- tion and Welfare and Land, Natu- exam and what breast cancer conference. ing about the disease. (Submission) ral Resources and Cultural Preser- is,” Public Health Nurse All passed legislation is sub- vation Committee meeting was held Dallie Lovett stated about the ject to the full Council approval Sept. 22. party. about the educational side of the chances for others in the during the regular session on Sept. All passed legislation went before In 2019 the panel for the breast cancer. This session will same family to get it. Accord- 26. the full Council during the regular Pink Party was a lineup of include a breast exam routine, ing to the American Cancer BFJ addressed the following session Sept. 26. breast cancer survivors, they the importance of a yearly well Society, there has been an esti- legislation, the interpretation of HEW/LNC addressed the fol- hosted a question and answer woman exam and how the self- mated 279,100 new cases of which is attributed to language in lowing legislation, the interpretation session which turned out to be breast exam is important for breast cancer overall this year. the bills: of which is attributed to language in the highlight. Lovett said they males also. Lovett added, the videos for TR 20-169 A Tribal Reso- the bills: wanted to do it again this year, “This year we plan on the 18th Annual Pink Party lution of the Muscogee (Creek) NCR 20-005 Confirming but with COVID everything having a male survivor, but we will start being posted the Nation allowing the Principal Robert A. Hardridge to serve on the will be virtual. are waiting on a determina- week of October 5. One video chief to execute grant awards and cemetery advisory committee Spon- “This year we will still tion,” Lovett added. will be posted a week through- cooperative agreements with gen- sored by Representative James Jen- incorporate the survivors,” The Pink Party is more of out the month of October. If eral terms and conditions for FY nings. Lovett said. “They will tell reaching out to people and you have not pre-registered 2021. Sponsored by Rep. Robert The National Council has their story on video that we getting the educational side there is a form to fill out, and Hufft. The committee vote was selected Muscogee (Creek) citizen can post on our social media of breast cancer to everyone. once all the videos have been unavailable. It was heard in full Robert A. Hardridge to serve on the site. The survivors may talk People of all ages, male and watched there is a survey to be council and approved 15-0 on cemetery advisory committee. The about their feelings when they female can get breast cancer. filled out. Once the survey is Sept. 26. term shall end once the Tribal and were diagnosed, how they Native Americans have a submitted, you will be entered The full legislation if signed Veterans Cemetery project is com- overcame the cancer and their higher risk of getting breast into a drawing for prizes. into law would allow federal pleted. Passed 9-0. support system.” cancer. The cancer does run Videos will be posted on awarding agency oversight of fed- For audio of committee meet- One week, a women’s in families such as if a relative the Muscogee (Creek) Nation eral grant funding. The legislation ings visit: www.mcnnc.com health provider will speak have had it then it increases Facebook page. also waives sovereign immunity. MCN VASO SEEKING VETERANS PARTICIPATION FOR VIDEO PROJECT PROJECT HOPES TO COVER MVSKOKE VETERANS SHARING STORIES

Morgan Taylor ture the language as much as we getting video footage of the veterans. REPORTER can and to do some translations. We Taryole considers himself a liai- have one really good interview so far son for the project and the veterans. and others with the language.” “I assist them in making that OKMULGEE, Oklahoma The primary goal of Educational transition into technology. Some – The Muscogee (Creek) Nation Services is to serve as a supportive of our older guys still have trouble Veterans Affairs Service Office role to help in the translation, rein- using cell phones,” Taryole said. “We (VASO) has an important project in forcement and documentation the have to bring them in and walk them the making. language. through that process. We are work- VASO is asking all Muscogee “Even from an education per- ing to make that transition happen (Creek) Veterans to come forward spective on what we can do to better as smoothly as we can.” and tell their stories and be recorded support our veterans that are con- Barnett’s primary job is to cap- on video to be made into a video tinuing on to school or technical ture the footage and take care of the series. trades? We can utilize this to learn. video side. According the Barnett, According to Director of MCN This is about opening up that pro- veterans have been easy to open up VASO Kellen Bible this project will cess of engagement,” said Randall. so far in the video process. be ongoing for the next year or so The MCN VASO is in the pro- “The veterans are pretty com- depending upon veteran participa- cess of creating a website that will be fortable being in front of the tion. used as a platform for promotion of camera,” Barnett said. “Especially “It’s a symbol of recognition to the program and different services it if you get them one-on-one and in make sure that people are able to tell provides and also in hopes of strik- the [MCN VASO] building, it’s like MCN VASO on the search for veterans to participate in a video series. their stories, I think that an import- ing veterans attention for the video a second home for them I think it’s (Morgan Taylor) ant part for veterans to be able to series. really easy for them to tell their sto- talk about things openly,” Bible said. “As the next fiscal year comes, ries and it opens up other subjects.” “If they can tell their stories in the we are going to start with more pro- The team of four concur that this open up about their experiences can up to the veterans.” Mvskoke language then that’s even motions and advertising for the pro- project is a new experience for all create a way for healing according to As of now, there are a total of more special. We are trying to give gram,” Bible said. “We have part- this being the first project of its kind Dr. Randall. seven recorded interviews that are in everyone the opportunity to use nered with Mvskoke Media and within the MCN VASO and relying “I feel like the outcome of this the process of being released. MCN their voice.” MCN Public Relations to get the heavily on the veterans themselves. would be an outlet for a feeling of VASO is looking to release the first The hope is to encourage veter- word out about what we can offer. “This is the first time we have reconciliation for veterans and even video of the series on Veterans Day ans to come forward and tell their It’s about starting new conversa- come together on a project like this,” from the citizens perspective get- Nov. 11 featuring Muscogee citizen stories about themselves during their tions.” Taryole said. “We really want to take ting a better understanding of our Buster Bear. time of service. The COVID-19 pandemic and the time needed to let them tell their veterans and what they experi- MCN VASO will release one “They can talk about their back- CDC guidelines has caused some- stories and I think everybody is really enced,” Randall said. “ Of course, video monthly on their website and ground, what it was like for them what of an interruption in the pro- going to look at it and say ‘wow.’ We not everybody is going to tell all social media platforms up until vet- as a Native American individual to cess and technology and can be a are going to put it on the different but I feel like this is going to be an eran’s participation comes to a halt. join the military, if they were ever in communication barrier for some of medias and let it speak for itself.” outlet for engagement, communi- With seven videos thus far, that any conflicts over seas or maybe they the veterans who are elders. Highlighting Muscogee Veter- cation and ultimately for healing. allots for seven months for the series. have something special or unique to “Some people are just used to ans during this time is an important A lot of veterans still struggle with “It’s very powerful and I think share about that experience or even showing up to the building, but now goal of the project with the upcom- PTSD, depression or other mental once the citizens see this, they about coming home,” Bible said. the doors are locked,” Bible said. ing day of recognition for the veter- health issues.” will see the different outlooks. We “We are leaving it open for them to “Everything is either by appoint- ans in November. There are currently no dead- appreciate our veterans and we can tell us the stories.” ment only and we also do house “I think an important aspect of lines or limits for participation in show we are a strong tribe,” said Secretary of Education and visits now. Access to technology and this relates to, like on the Internet, the video series. MCN VASO will Taryole. Training Dr. Monte Randall and being comfortable using computers how a lot of people don’t stand for accept veteran participants as long as Veterans and veteran families the Language program are provid- or smartphones are transitions we the National Anthem,” Barnett said. the project is ongoing. who are interested in telling their ing support for the MCN VASO by have to accommodate for everybody “I think its important for our people “It depends on the kind of stories can contact the MCN VASO assisting in the translation of those especially in this COVID environ- to hear and see our veterans and hear response we can get,” Bible said. office to schedule an appointment Mvskoke speaking veterans. ment. We have to do things inde- it come from them the freedom that “As we are more available an social with the team to participate in the “We are just mainly supporting pendently and separately.” they fought for and some died for. media and different technology plat- project. the Veterans Affairs Office through MCN Language Program Its very important especially for our forms that’s hopefully going to bring Muscogee (Creek) Nation Vet- the Muscogee Language Program,” Graphic Designer Brandon Barnett children so they know what it took people out. As more veterans see this erans Affairs Service Office (918) Randall said. “We came together on and MCN VASO Executive Officer to get here.” as an ongoing project, we may get 732-7739. this project and really want to cap- Shawn Taryole will work closely in Letting veterans know they can more traffic. We are just leaving it

• P.O. BOX 580 - OKMULGEE, OK 74447 • 918.732.7720 • MVSKOKEMEDIA.COM • @MVSKOKEMEDIA CAHKÊPEN THE MVSKOKE NEWS PAGE 5 14TH ANNUAL DIABETES AWARENESS SUMMIT GOES VIRTUAL SUMMIT PRESENTATIONS ARE NOW AVAILABLE TO WATCH

Lani Hansen tact their local clinic con- the Go, Small and Simple SENIOR REPORTER tact which is located on the Things, Eyes on your Dia- summit flyer,” Seymore said. betes, Relationship between Surveys are given when the Diabetes and Oral Health and OKMULGEE, Okla- local clinic for the participant Addressing Stress. homa– The Muscogee (Creek) contacts them. After complet- It is important for Native Nation’s 14th Annual Diabetes ing the survey, return it to the Americans, specifically to Awareness Summit has always contact person from the local learn about diabetes because been hosted in the Okmulgee/ clinic and they will give the they are at higher risk. Glenpool area, but this year it participant an incentive bag. According to Seymore, it is will be virtual. You must be 18 years or older important to be aware of stay- The presentations for the to complete the survey and ing healthy to prevent or delay summit are now available on receive the incentive bag. the onset of diabetes. the Mvskoke Media’s YouTube “The bag has a lot of great Seymore added, “If you do page. There are seven differ- goodies in it so you can take have diabetes or have family ent videos to watch, according care of your health and diabe- members with diabetes, it’s The Annual Diabetes Summit is virtual this year due to COVID-19. to Registered Dietitian and tes,” Seymore added. important to know how to (Submission) Certified Diabetes Educator The presentations that are take care of yourself and live Torie Seymore, that people going to be shown are Lifelong a long healthy life with diabe- can binge watch or view. Intensity for Excerise, Decod- tes.” goal is to reach previous par- The presentations are view- “After watching these ing the Nutrition Facts Label, With this year going vir- ticipants and those who have able at on Mvskoke Media’s videos, people should con- a cooking demo, Diabetes on tual, Seymore said their main not been able to participate. Youtube Channel. MCN HEALTH SYSTEMS TRANSITION TO HOME VISITS COMMUNITREND IS MAKING DOCTOR VISITS QUICKER AND EASIER

Lani Hansen munitrend to see if there is a house- the pandemic is over. The telehealth SENIOR REPORTER hold to check on elders who might process will continue but most likely be living in a home without heat and for the elders. air. “We don’t want them to get out OKMULGEE, Oklahoma– “We could step out and con- or anything because they have diffi- Muscogee (Creek) Nation Health tact Family services staff to assist culty getting transportation, and we Systems have transitioned to home those in need, and contact Com- have limited numbers of CHR’s,” visits through Communitrend for munty Services to make sure there Dr. Beets said about telehealth for less traffic flow in the facilities. is food in the house from Food Dis- elders. Communitrend is the company tribution,” Dr. Beets stated. “We’re The home visits has been easier that will be providing services to not going in for labs only, we’re also on patients, according to Dr. Beets. the patients at home. Since the pan- doing home visits to make sure if They don’t have to get out and be demic MCN health systems had there is anything our citizens need possibly exposed to COVID-19. switched to telehealth. The patients during this time of COVID-19.” Patients are more complianced, and who go through telehealth and are The communitrend initially it is easier on the physician because not being physically seen but their started at Eufaula Clinic for a couple the patients will not be waiting doctors still need those lab results, of weeks to do a pilot program to see around on lab results. that is where communitrend comes how things work. Now the home “I’m excited about this, and I in. LPN Todd Hunter, checks Tracie Nail’s (Patient Registration) vitals as an visits has expanded to the Koweta think it’s going to be very success- “Instead of having patients get example of what happens during the home visits. (Lani Hansen) Clinic and Sapulpa Clinic, then ful,” Dr. Beets said. “I’m anticipat- out in the public and have them transition to Okemah Clinic and ing that a lot of tribes will also be come to our facilities, we are send- back to the clinic, and we run the When the patient checks in for Okmulgee Clinic. doing this and I think it will work ing out an individual to the homes lab work then the results go to the telehealth, the physician can speak The visits will continue through out well.” of the citizens to do lab work,” Chief doctor. So when the patient has their with them about their lab results and COVID-19 pandemic, but Dr. For more information and ques- Medical Officer Dr. Billy Beets said. appointment the doctor already has medication change. According to Beets believes about 25 percent of tions, contact your local health “The lab or blood work is brought their results.” Dr. Beets, they are also using com- patient visits will be telehealth after administrator.

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• P.O. BOX 580 - OKMULGEE, OK 74447 • 918.732.7720 • MVSKOKEMEDIA.COM • @MVSKOKEMEDIA PAGE 6 THE MVSKOKE NEWS EPÂKEN MCN TRIBAL CONSTRUCTION UTILIZES CARES ACT FUNDING NEW PROJECTS FOR THE MCN TRIBAL CONSTRUCTION MUST MEET STRICT DEADLINE DUE TO CARES ACT FUNDING GUIDELINES

Morgan Taylor because they have strict time- REPORTER line and if they are not finished Dome in Okmulgee. This space an exceptionally large project.” with the project by the end of will be dedicated to providing a Tribal Construction has that time, they are going to be work space that allows employ- another ongoing project with OKMULGEE, Okla- stuck with paying liquidated ees to work from a space that the College of Muscogee homa - The Muscogee (Creek) damages every day for the rest uses social distancing. Nation. Nation Tribal Construction of project.” “I feel really confident this “Right now, we are currently has many construction projects The projects include a will be completed by the dead- working on a Natural Resource going on during this time and new PPE/GSA Shipping and line in February,” Emerson said. Building at the College of Mus- a few which are funded by the Receiving facility, Safe Space “The one that will be the riski- cogee Nation (CMN),” Emer- CARES Act funding. facility, and the MCN Meat est is the meat processing plant. son said. “It’s a 4,800 square The MCN Tribal Construction MCN Tribal Construction Processing Plant. We are working weekly to final- foot building. We [Tribal Con- crew performed the earth work Director Steve Emerson has a “The PPE/GSA Shipping ize the design.” struction] are acting as a gen- at Threeponds Elderly Housing list of ongoing projects that are and receiving building will be There are also many other eral contractor and we are project. in the beginning stages and near located at the Industrial Site projects that are taking place self-performing the plumb- (Submission) completion. MCN Tribal Con- [in Okmulgee],” Emerson said. at Tribal Construction that are ing for that project right now. struction has been experiencing “This will basically be a ware- not funded with CARES Act Recently CMN has received a larger than normal workload. house and a data center. This was a shortage of meat. Many funding. Currently, the Tribal another HUD grant and they Emerson attributes this work- site will be a total of 36,352 processing plants throughout Construction crew is working have another future project for load to the impact of the Coro- square feet.” the Nation have had to shut on the Threeponds project, a us.” navirus. The 25,000 square foot down. Everybody experienced housing project that is funded Funding has been set aside There are three major proj- Meat Processing Plant also uti- the meat shortage; the prices by Housing and Urban Devel- to hire temporary help through ects underway that are CARES lizes Cares Act funding and were high, and the shelves were opment (HUD). all projects for Tribal Construc- Act funded and must be com- will be built at the Duck Creek empty. If we would have had “Threeponds project is a tion until the end of Dec, as well pleted by Feb. Community just south of Duck this going at the time it would housing project that will have as other departments across the “There is a lot to be done in a Creek Casino. have really helped the commu- 72 homes and a community Nation. Applications for posi- short amount of time,” Emerson “I find the Meat Process- nity.” center,” Emerson said. “This tions can be found on the MCN said. “Our part in these large ing Plant project most excit- The third project funded site is 40 acres and the crew are website www.mcn-nsn.gov CARES Act projects is to hire ing,” Emerson. “I think that by CARES Act is the 20, 484 currently working on digging Mvskoke Media will con- a construction management it’s something we really need. square foot Safe Space facility to up and relocating 1.3 million tinue to report on upcoming group at-risk. They are at-risk During the pandemic, there be located behind the Mvskoke cubic square feet of dirt. This is Tribal Construction projects.

MCN CESO HAS CARES ACT FUNDING AVAILABLE FOR CREEK BUSINESS OWNERS Muskogee, Oklahoma, to Juana Mae Tiger and John P. Patterson. He is a GRANT AVAILABLE FOR CREEK OWNED BUSINESSES EFFECTED BY THE PANDEMIC great grandson of Motey Tiger, the last federally appointed chief of the Morgan Taylor funds, but they do have to provide do a lot of counselling with them Muscogee Creek Nation under The- REPORTER receipts and proof of payment.” to help them find things that we do odore Roosevelt. The grant funds cannot be used pay for.” John attended Muskogee High to make up for loss of income and With assistance, Creek business School where he excelled in base- OKMULGEE, Oklahoma cannot be used to pay existing pay- owners can receive the maximum ball, track and football. After a brief – The Muscogee (Creek) Nation roll. amount of what they are eligible to time playing football at the Univer- Contracting & Employment Sup- “If they had to hire someone receive. sity of Tulsa, he decided to follow his port (CESO) Program has been additionally due to the pandemic, “It’s our hope and our goal that father’s footsteps working in retail - allocated CARES Act funding to we can’t cover that pay roll,” Baker with having that one-on-one con- building a clientele selling men’s suits distribute to citizen owned busi- said. “Nor can it be used for existing versation we can help them lever- at Renberg’s in Tulsa, Oklahoma for nesses. employees.” age as much as possible,” Bran- over 20 years, working his way up to At MCN CESO, businesses The funds could cover expenses son-Thomas. “For non-Oklahoma store manager. He then became store get certified as Native Ameri- related to the pandemic like PPE, residents the grant may be treated as manager at MMCohn clothing store can owned through their program. additional employees and additional taxable income. So, we want them at Woodland Hills Mall. They are then put into a job bank, technology for businesses that have to understand the commitment they John then decided to make a pro- An arrangement made by Mus- which is available to those request- had to switch to virtual. are making.” fessional change from the retail sales cogee (Creek) owned business ing work from CESO and provides “There is still money available Branson-Thomas continued, industry to the auto sales industry. Kathryn’s Flowers in Atoka, OK. them with quotes while enforcing a and we want to help people,” Baker “There are a lot of business oppor- He worked at Crown Auto World, (Submission) native preference. said. “This is funding we really want tunities right now during the pan- until his retirement, under Henry However, the recent CARES to give out. I want to reach all of our demic that are treated differently Primeaux, whom he respected as an Act funding that has been received end of the physical year will have Creek owned businesses because and this is just a different prod- excellent businessman and a good by CESO is not tied to the program to be returned. Citizens that own this funding is there for them.” uct with different treatment and friend. but is being distributed through businesses are highly encouraged to Starting on Oct 1, the program requirements. We just want to He was an avid outdoorsman CESO using a different application take advantage of this opportunity expanded to Creek business owners make sure we were compliant with who believed in the sport of hunt- process. Muscogee business owners while it still available. who are not Oklahoma residents. citizens who were applying for the ing and fishing (importance of con- do not have to be enrolled in the “We were provided this funding “The Nation has made a recom- grant.” servation and respecting the land and CESO program to qualify for this to provide up to $50,000 grants to mendation to expand the eligibility One recipient of the funding its treasures). His passion was creat- particular funding. businesses to help address any needs for this program to non-Oklahoman was Kathryn’s Flowers, owned by ing fond memories with his father The MCN Coronavirus Citi- due to the pandemic,” Baker said. Creek citizens,” Branson-Thomas Muscogee (Creek) Citizen Charlie and his sons among the many leases zen-Owned Business Relief Pro- “Maybe they have had to change said. “So if a citizen lives in Texas James located in Atoka, OK. of Oklahoma and Arkansas. gram was opened in June to provide the way they do business or some- and has been impacted by the pan- Kathryn’s has been in business John met his wife Ann Mullen economic development relief grants thing that in order to respond to demic previously that citizen would in Atoka for over 60 years making it while on a double date, where they to MCN citizen-owned busi- business changes due to pandemic. not have been eligible for the pro- one of the oldest businesses in town. realized they were more interested nesses and enterprises for expenses We aren’t covering existing pay roll gram but because we do have that During the Pandemic, Charlie in each other than the date they were incurred during the COVID-19 or loss of income but we are cover- funding available we have decided had to close her doors to the public with. After courting for 3 years, they pandemic provided with CARES ing other expenses they have.” to expand.” and faced many complications. married and have been together for Act funding. Funding eligibility requires that The application for the grant ttttttThe funding application 57 years. When asked what the secret MCN CESO Manager Edith the business be at least 51% percent funding is not online. Applicants deadline is currently set for Dec 1. is to 57 years of marriage was, John Baker along with Secretary of owned by a Muscogee (Creek) citi- must call the MCN CESO office The application process can take quickly and reverently said, “Trust.” Nation and Commerce Terra Bran- zen and be within the state of Okla- and request an application. some time; citizens should get John is preceded in death by his son-Thomas have taken applica- homa. Business owners will have to “I like to talk to them when I applications in as soon as possible as parents, John and Juana Patterson; tions for the program and so far, provide receipts. send them the application so I can this funding is only available for a and his oldest son, Wade Patterson. have distributed roughly half a mil- “We only give 80% of the walk them through the process,” limited time. He leaves many cherished mem- lion dollars of the seven and a half awarded amount for the first pay Baker said. “A lot of people want If you wish to request an appli- ories with his family; wife Ann million-dollar ($7,500,000.00) out,” Baker said. “Once they provide to initially just do payroll and that’s cation or inquire about eligibil- (Mullen) Patterson; daughter Rena budget for the funds according to receipts and show that their utiliz- the one thing we don’t cover, and I ity, please contact Zech Harjo at and son-in-law Tom Scott; grand- Branson-Thomas. ing it for what was asked for then we like to explain to them that there’s [email protected] or 918-549- children Kristina and Tommy Any funding not used by the give out the additional 20% of the other places that we do help. We 2767 or 918-758-8782. Scott; son Ryan and daughter-in- law Donna Patterson, grandchildren Cole and Julianna Patterson; daugh- ter Erin and son-in-law Greg Selke, Local Law Firm is offering Exclusive Rates for grandchildren Mason, Matthew and Madden Minnix and Rachel and Glennon Selke; daughter-in - Muscogee (Creek) Nation Citizens law Brenda Patterson, granddaugh- ter Fallon Patterson, great-grandson Blake Ferguson Jr, and grand- son-Garrett, wife Taylor and baby boy great-grandson Patterson due 2/2021; Sister MaryLena and hus- band Pat Melton of Las Vegas, NM - nephews Patrick, Mike and Kelly Melton and brother Robert and wife Cindy Patterson of Austin, TX, nieces, Lauren Tiger, Christine Kamps, Aspen Patterson and neph- ews, Shane and Colton Patterson; call us today! sister-in-law Martha (Mullen) and *Some exclusions may apply Your Consultation is Free! James Corder of Oklahoma City, OK and niece Paige Corder. The family would like to extend a John Patterson sincere thank you to Dr. Lance King, ATTORNEY Nurse Kim Geisinger; Dr. Sanjeev DRU R. TATE John Patrick Patterson passed Trahan, Nurse practitioner Jasmine Is a member of the Muscogee (Creek) peacefully in his sleep early Saturday Thompson; Dr. EJ Schelbar; Dr. Nation Bar Association and has served the Tribe through its various departments and morning, September 26, after a long Kathryn Zachary and Saint Francis its Citizens since 2011. and hard-fought illness. Hospice, especially Dr. Bart Rider, He was born March 10, 1940, in Mike Harper, Joshua Longnecker

• P.O. BOX 580 - OKMULGEE, OK 74447 • 918.732.7720 • MVSKOKEMEDIA.COM • @MVSKOKEMEDIA KÔLVPÂKEN THE MVSKOKE NEWS PAGE 7 and David Farthing. and videos may be shared with Muscogee (Creek) Nation ters: Julie Butler and Christine A Celebration of Life Service will the family on ‘s Johnny’s Trib- Eufaula Dormitory, to work Butler and numerous grand- be 4:00 pm Wednesday, October 7, ute Page of our website at www. in the kitchen. She worked 27 children and great grand- 2020, at South Tulsa Baptist Church. mcclendon-winters.com years before retirement at the children. She is preceded in In lieu of flowers, the family is asking dormitory and left a loving death by her parents; her hus- for donations to Saint Francis Hos- and nurturing legacy to hun- band, Jack R. Belcher; four pice: 6600 S. Yale Ave, Suite 350, dreds of children. sons, Johnny Belcher, Taylor Tulsa, OK 74136. Edna was a charter member Fields, Gene Fields and Jackie Arrangements were entrusted to of the Eufaula Indian Com- Lee Belcher; three daughters, Schaudt’s Tulsa Funeral Service & munity and served as the first Virginia Hill, Evelyn Belcher, Cremation Care, 5757 South Memo- co-chairman, as well as 19 Judy Morsette; and three rial Drive, Tulsa, OK 74145. Family years as EIC Treasurer. On grandchildren, Arianna Brin- and friends may leave kind words or Edna Belcher Oct. 27, 2016, the EIC hon- kley, Robert Holt and Ryley comfort, special memories, and con- ored Belcher by naming the Crossfield. dolences to the family online at www. Edna Belcher, 84, of EIC Nutrition Center the A funeral service was held schaudtfuneralservice.com Eufaula, Oklahoma, passed Edna Belcher Elder Nutri- 11:00 a.m., Friday, October away Saturday, September tion Center for her service to 2, 2020, at the West Eufaula 26, 2020, at her home. Edna the citizens, community and Indian Baptist Church with Robert William Jones was born on February 9, 1936, the Nation. In 2018, Edna Reverend Tom Pickering offi- in Hanna, Oklahoma, the was inducted as a Living ciating. Pallbearers were Jai Robert William Jones 76, daughter of Andrew and Ada Legend for her service to the Tainpeah, Christian Belcher, of Okmulgee, Oklahoma went (Cooper) Butler. She began her Nation and Eufaula commu- Christopher Belcher, David to be with the Lord on Thurs- career as a cook at the Foun- nity throughout her lifetime. Long, Jr., Bryan Holt, Destri day, October 1. He was born to tainhead Lodge for 20 years She also received numerous Belcher. Honorary Pallbearers Elmer Jones and Elsie Roberts and then worked with Eufaula other awards in her life time, were Joshua Mihesuah Brin- on January 27, 1944 in Tah- Bingo. On December 23, 1969, too many to mention. kley, James Holt, Jr., Jeremy lequah, Oklahoma. Robert Edna married Jack R. Belcher Survivors include: her Farley and Ray Tainpeah. was a dedicated member of in Eufaula. He preceded her sons, Richard Belcher, Robbie Burial followed at the West Belvin Baptist church, a Has- in death on September 30, Belcher, and Benjamin Belcher Eufaula Cemetery under the kell Indian Nations University 1999. Edna was a member of and wife Jana; her daughters, direction of Hunn, Black & John Henry Morgan Alumni and a former Mus- the West Eufaula Indian Bap- Marilyn Tattershall, Mony Merritt Funeral Home & Cre- cogee Creek Nation, National tist Church. Tainpeah, Jacqueline Brinkley matory. Online condolences John Henry Morgan, Council Representative. In 1987, Edna was and husband David, and Nancy may be made to the family at 55-year-old Morris resident, Robert served in the United approached by Vann McIn- Skaggs and husband Jack; her www.hbmfuneralhome.com. passed away Wednesday, Sep- States Army from 1966 to tosh, Superintendent of the brother, Andy Butler; her sis- tember 30 in Okmulgee. He was 1970. He served with the 5th born the youngest of 11 children Infantry Division, Bravo Bat- from Stidham Public Schools and many cousins. She is pre- on December 20, 1964 in Cla- tery 5th Battalion and 4th Air and was currently attending ceded in death by her maternal remore to the late Louis Wil- Defense Artillery Regiment. Eufaula High School. Emily grandparents, Richard Sr. and liam Morgan II and Josephine Roberts’ military career starts loved basketball, fishing, and Dorothy Corn. (Davis) Morgan. Johnny grew at Ft. Polk, Louisiana and hunting. She was a member A celebration of life will up in the Okfuskee area and upon completion of Infantry of the Lake Eufaula Christian be held on Emily’s birthday, graduated from Mason High training, he served at Ft. Lewis Church and enjoyed being a 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, September School. He grew up attending Washington and was later sta- part of the youth group. Emily 29, 2020 at the Lake Eufaula the Montesoma Baptist Church. tioned in Germany. Upon loved her family and especially Christian Church with Jeremy He enjoyed playing domi- world events, he would later loved being a mother to her Little officiating. Burial fol- nos, horseshoes and watching be deployed to Vietnam and baby girl, Sydney. lowed at the Hanna Cemetery horror movies. He loved his job was awarded countless awards Survivors include: her par- under the direction of Hunn, at Creek Nation Transportation and medals including Viet- Emily Renee Berry ents, Johnny and Myra Berry Black & Merritt Funeral and his fellow workers. Johnny nam Service Ribbon, Vietnam of the home; her daughter, Home & Crematory. Online was known as the one that Campaign Medal, Army Com- Emily Renee Berry, 15, of Sydney Rae Berry of the home; condolences may be made to kept the family close. He loved mendation Medal, Combat Hanna, passed away Wednes- her brother, Tyler Jay Berry the family at www.hbmfuner- family time, especially spoil- Service, Commemorative day, September 23, 2020 at the of Hanna; paternal grandpar- alhome.com. In lieu of flow- ing the grandkids. He will be Metal, Gallantry Cross, and St. Francis Hospital of Tulsa. ents, Sharon and Johnny Berry ers, memorial contributions remembered for always check- Combat Infantryman’s Badge. Emily was born on Septem- Sr. of Hanna; her paternal may be made to the Emily ing on others and being a self- Once Roberts’s missions were ber 29, 2004, in Tulsa, Okla- aunt, Charlotte Savage; mater- Berry Memorial Scholarship less person. complete, he returned home homa the daughter of Johnny nal aunts, Deb Loucks, Diana Recipient Sydney Berry, Farm- Johnny was preceded in to serve his community and Dewayne Jr. and Myra Lea King, and Denise Hunt; mater- ers State Bank, 520 S. Main, death by his parents, five broth- fellow Veterans as a proud (Corn) Berry. She graduated nal uncle, Richard Corn, Jr. Eufaula, OK 74432. ers, Robert, Louis III, Ronnie, member and Post Commander Richard and Dennis Morgan. at the Okmulgee Veterans of Survivors include his children, Foreign War-Post 1189. T.J. Morgan of Weleetka, John He was preceded in death Morgan, Jr. of Sapulpa, Carol by his parents, his brothers Ann Steel of Eufaula, Johnni Terry Jones Sr., Glen Jones, Morgan of Bixby, Gianna Billy Jones and one son Ronald Morgan of Morris, Olivia Jones. Little Thunder of Okmul- Robert is survived by his gee and Owen Little Thunder six children Robert Jones Sr. of Okmulgee, grandchildren, of Okmulgee, Rodney Jones Thinking About Jadence Culley, Lilyana Steel, of Hitchita, Reggie Benson Bryce McMahan, Bubba Steel of Okmulgee, Roxanne Jones and Cade Morgan, brothers, of Okmulgee, Ryan Jones Quitting? Thomas Morgan of Okmulgee of Okmulgee, Renee Jones and Michael Morgan of Morris, of Okmulgee, four brothers sisters, Frances Morgan of Bri- Mitchell King and wife Fannie Start a New Tradition. stow, Sue Bishop of Morris and of Wewoka, Joseph Berryhill Ellen Lena of Okemah and and wife Esther of Okemah, numerous nieces and nephews. JoJo Johnson of Okmul- Life. Family. Legacy. A wake service was held gee, Floyd Jones of Okmul- October 4 at the Montesoma gee, one niece (more like a Baptist Church. A funeral ser- sister) Melinda Deeringwater, Quit commercial tobacco and write your next chapter. vice was held October 5 at Mon- a special friend Carla Smith of tesoma Baptist Church with Okmulgee, 18 grandchildren, Reverends Grover Wind and 3 great grandchildren and a The Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline greatly increases your Marvin Lowe officiating. Inter- host of nephews, nieces, and chances of success with proven tools and resources. ment followed in the Morgan cousins. Family Cemetery. Casket bear- Pallbearers will be Clint ers were Red Hicks, Frank King, Tony Berryhill, Scott The Helpline offers FREE patches, gum or lozenges, Brown, Joe Jackson, Tina King, Shane Jones, Austin along with Quit Coaching and phone or email support. Watson, Tonya Doyle, Dan Bea- Jones, Scott Jones along with To learn more, call 1-800-QUIT NOW or visit sley, Danny McKinney and Eric honorary Pallbearers, Darren Taylor. Honorary Casket bearers Jones, Jamie Jones, DJ Jones, OKhelpline.com. were Ronny Morgan, Michael Cedric Noriega, Justin James. Morgan, Nick Morgan, Michael A funeral service was held Morgan, Jr., Matt Morgan, Sky at Belvin Baptist church in Morgan, Kenneth Morgan, Okmulgee, Oklahoma on Manuel Morgan, David King, October 7. James King, Earl King, Louie Arrangements were Felix, Jesse Felix, J.C. Morgan, entrusted to Schaudt Funeral Sante Lena and Tyler Lena. Service. Family and friends Arrangements were entrusted may send memories and con- to the McClendon-Winters dolences to the family online, Funeral Home of Okmulgee. www.schaudtfuneralservice. Memories, condolences, photos com

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In accordance with the following legislation: NCA 20-050 A law of the Muscogee Creek Nation amending NCA 20-038 (A law of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation authorizing the expenditures of Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) funds received from the United States Department of the Treasury to establish the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Coronavirus Relief Fund Program.) SECTION 7. REPORTING. A report shall be provided bi-weekly by the Office of the Principal Chief to the Muscogee (Creek) Nation National Council and Mvskoke Media documenting all expenditures of the CARES Act funds. First distribution of CRF, received 05-06-2020 $282,266,728.86 Second distribution of CRF, received 6-20-2020 $22,958,566.24 Third distribution of CRF, received 6-18-2020 $7,250,073.54 Interest income as of 8-30-2020 $141,002.78

Total received/earned $312,616,371.42 Total expenditures and encumbrances from the CRF funds as of this report date equals, $119,880,065.81 On June 30th the Tribe distributed $88,529,496.37 to MCN Gaming for CRF related expenses, total expends and encumbrances from the CRF fund as of Aug. 17 equals, $96,683,785. The following report has been submitted for the publication date of Oct. 15.

ACCOUNT PROGRAM NAME/ AMOUNT EXPENDED ENCUMBERED CASH BALANCE NUMBER ACCOUNT NAME BUDGETED PRINCIPAL CHIEF 50000 Salary & Wages-FT 47,723 - - 47,723 50020 Salary & Wages-O/T over 1.5 19,900 - - 19,900 50100 Salary & Wages-PT/Other 1,061,820 1,096,000.00 - -34,180 51000 Fringe-FT 38,072 - - 38,072 51100 Fringe-PT/Other 113,117 129,042.50 - -15,924 SECRETARY OF NATION 59220 Grants 95,000,000 89,140,328.37 - 5,859,671.63 TOURISM & RECREATION 53000 Supplies 30,000 26,646.00 - 3,354.00 CONTRACTING EMPLOYMENT 59220 Grants 7,500,000 628,839.20 - 6,871,160.80 INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY 53000 Supplies 1,511,100.00 384,034.50 244,224.20 882,841.30 53010 Software/Licenses 2,010,00.00 468,051.89 424,819.12 1,117,128.99 54000 Contractual 935,010.00 238,539.50 116,470.50 580,00.00 55210 Communications- Other 98,661.57 31,867.61 - 66,793.96 55300 Bldg Maint/Repairs 102,630.43 2,630.43 - 100,000.00 85500 Equipment 4,042,000.00 25,058.20 2,514,973.19 1,501,968.61 FLEET MANAGEMENT 50100 Salary & Wages - PT/Other 50,000.00 2,093.00 - 47,907.00 51100 Fringe - PT/Other 6,075.00 254.30 - 5,820.70 53000 Supplies 3,867,925.00 268,121.73 243,488.82 3,356,314.45 55300 Bldg Maint/Repairs 1,000.00 685.00 0.00 315.00 57000 Indirect costs 75,000.00 - - 75,00.00 SOCIAL SERVICES 50000 Salary & Wages - FT 113,107.65 48,218.87 - 64,888.78 51000 Fringe - FT 74,997.53 26,739.05 - 48,258.48 53000 Supplies 4,000.00 1,512.30 965.62 1,522.08 53010 Software/Licenses 8,000.00 4,000.00 - 4,000.00 54000 Contractual 313,720.00 33,242.59 280,037.19 440.22 57000 Indirect costs 0.00 0.00 - 0.00 59071 Direct Assist - Income Support 36,198,000.00 3,884,000.00 - 32,314,000.00 59072 Direct Assist - Hardship 30,000,000.00 2,525,500.00 - 27,474,500.00 SENIOR SERVICES 53000 Supplies 200,000.00 0.00 176,456.08 23,543.92 FOOD DISTRIBUTION 53000 Supplies 530,000.00 38,560.57 12,945.66 478,493.77 59050 Food Purchases 450,000.00 223,623.51 226,376.49 0.00 85170 Construction 50,000.00 4,979.62 2,999.95 42,020.43 85400 Vehicles 250,000.00 155,117.61 63,417.60 31,464.79 COMMUNITY RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT 55210 Communications - Other 45,000.00 - 43,093.30 1,906.70 SECRETARY OF EDUCATION 50000 Salary& Wages- FT 4,934.00 - - 4,934.00 50020 Salary& Wages - O/T over 1.5 133,300.00 149.46 - 133,150.54 51000 Fringe - FT 77,825.00 - - 77,825.00 53000 Supplies 2,560,000.00 487.00 462,722.16 2,096,790.84 57000 Direct Assistance - Ed Support 9,600.000.00 8,618,100.00 - 981,900.00 CULTURAL CENTER & ARCHIVES 53000 Supplies 2,500.00 - 2,425.00 75.00 TRIBAL CONSTRUCTION 50100 Salary & Wages - PT/Other 85,608.00 - - 85,608.00 51100 Fringe - PT/Other 10,701.00 - - 10,701.00 53000 Supplies 25,000.00 - - 25,000.00 57000 Architect & Engineering 844,140.00 656,382.21 187,757.79 0.00 85010 Construction 14,052,860.00 - 5,342,478.00 8,710,382.00 85170 Equipment 73,000.00 - - 73,000.00 OFFICE OF TAX COMMISSION Supplies 12,051.00 12,051.00 - 0.00 53000 Contractual 50,000.00 13,700.00 - 36,300.00 55300 Bldg Maint/Repairs 1,500.00 1,159.20 - 340.80 85500 Equipment 11,700.00 11,698.97 - 1.03 CITIZENSHIP BOARD 53000 Supplies 350,485.00 815.00 96,306.50 253,363.50 53010 Software/Licenses 12,999.00 7,350.00 - 5,649.00 54000 Contractual 551,000.00 500,500.00 - 50,500.00 85500 Equipment 85,516.00 49,258.00 - 36,258.00 ELECTION BOARD 53000 Supplies 1,132.00 - - 1,132.00 53010 Software/Licenses 42,109.00 - - 42,109.00 85500 Equipment 15,900.00 - - 15,900.00 NATIONAL COUNCIL 50100 Salary & Wares - PT/Other 12,000.00 12,000.00 - 0.00 51100 Fringe - PT/Other 1,458.00 1,458.00 - 0.00 DISTRICT COURT 53000 Supplies 5,550.00 4,631.77 - 918.23 53310 Equipment Maint/Repair 10,512.00 - 10,512.00 0.00 85500 Equipment 150,171.68 - 150,171.68 0.00 SUPREME COURT 50100 Salary & Wares - PT/Other 4,500.00 - - 4,500.00 51100 Fringe - PT/Other 547.00 - - 547.00 TOTAL 213,535,857.86 109,277,424.96 10,602,640.85 93,655,792.05

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