Volume 7, Issue 12 • December 2011 The Official Newspaper of the Osage Nation Osage Holiday Gala Osage shareholders receive to benefit Osage their settlement youth is canceled After settlement arrives, Gala planned for Dec. 10 at Osage Osage shareholders connect Event Center called off eight days before with each other online By Shannon Shaw By Sunnie Clahchischiligi Osage News Osage News The settlement is in and sharehold- An Osage Holiday Gala hosted by a group of Osage citi- ers across the country are rejoicing – and zens that was supposed to help raise money to benefit Osage they’re rejoicing online. Osage shareholders across the country are connecting with each other via Face- book, chat boards and Web sites, sharing stories about their delight, bills they’re going to pay, memories of loved ones who would have enjoyed this time and the sto- ries keep coming. “Those Osage Settlement checks are coming in like fresh-flowing water; so-so

very glad for my Osage people who are re-

Address Service Requested Service Address

1578 ceiving. All must try to be happy about this

Permit No. No. Permit PAWHUSKA, OK 74056 OK PAWHUSKA, because this is a wonderful thing from the

Tusa, OK Tusa, Courtesy Photo PAID

P.O. BOX 779 BOX P.O. Good Lord above. From the Georgia pines

U.S. Postage U.S.

PRST STANDARD PRST OSAGE NATION OSAGE to the California beaches; Thank you Lord A photo of the late Dora Ponca, the grandmoth- for these gifts to my Osage people. We now er of Jan Mansfield, Osage shareholder. Mans- have a song for victory among our great field, of Ponca City, changed her Facebook pro- Osage Nation!” wrote James Dailey on the file picture to her late grandmother from whom Youth and the Osage Tribal Museum was canceled eight Facebook page, “Osage for Fiscal Respon- she inherited her headright share. She changed days before the event. sibility.” it to honor her after she received her settlement. News of the cancellation began mid-Friday morning on Jan Mansfield of Ponca City changed Ponca was from the Fairfax/Grayhorse area. Dec. 2, when the Osage Minerals Council posted a notice her Facebook profile picture to her late about the cancellation on their Web site. The gala was grandmother, Dora Ponca, from whom she be getting out of debt; 41 said they would planned for Dec. 10. inherited her headright share. Her late be using it for retirement; Five said a new “The Planning Committee for the Osage Holiday Gala has grandmother was from the Fairfax/Gray- house; and 13 said they were planning a cancelled (sic) the event. We will issue a statement about horse area. nice vacation. this soon. Individual tickets will be reimbursed,” the notice The Osage News has ran online polls for On the Osage News Facebook page, stated. weeks on their Web site, asking sharehold- shareholders posted that they had paid ers what they plan to do with their settle- See Holiday Gala CanCeled ment money. See SHareHolderS reCeive Settlement —Continued on Page 6 Sixty-nine shareholders said they would —Continued on Page 4 2 December 2011 Osage News • osagenews.org Wind farm lawsuit trial set for U.S. District Court Dec. 14 By Benny Polacca ect’s funding and efforts to qualify tion was granted. Frizzell noted that all rights to the subsurface minerals, Osage News for a federal tax credit. discovery time for both sides began which is held in trust by the federal Presiding U.S. District Court on Oct. 31 and lasts until Dec. 9 or government. The Bureau of Indian The legal debate over a proposed Judge Gregory Frizzell approved a can be extended through Dec. 14 Affairs has also opined it is con- wind farm in western Osage County motion recently, sought by the proj- upon agreement. cerned the wind farm construction is scheduled for court starting Dec. “Plaintiff has not persuaded this may interfere with oil and natural 14 at the U.S. District Courthouse in ect builder Wind Capital Group, to gas mining. Tulsa. consolidate the preliminary injunc- court that the discovery necessary The Osage Nation is opposing a tion hearing and a trial, accelerating for trial cannot be completed in that In its lawsuit, the Nation is also 94-turbine wind farm and has asked the process so both would be heard at time, that plaintiff’s experts cannot asking the court to find Wind Capi- the federal court for preliminary and the same time. adequately review the project en- tal Group in violation of federal law, permanent injunctions to prevent The company filed the consolida- gineering layout and design in that citing a Code of Federal Regulation the facility construction from moving tion motion on Oct. 26, which was time, and that it would not be fea- which guarantees the Nation access forward. granted by Frizzell during Thanks- sible to try this matter beginning on to the Minerals Estate. The Nation The Osage Nation, through the giving week. In his ruling, Frizzell December 14, 2011,” Frizzell wrote is also seeking incurred attorney fees Osage Minerals Council, filed suit wrote: “It . . . appears that the factu- in his ruling. and court costs. against the Missouri-based Wind al issues raised by the complaint are The Nation is against the wind In its request to consolidate the Capital Group on Oct. 18 to halt its relatively few, straightforward, and farm project, arguing its construction preliminary trial and trial on the plans for the 8,500-acre wind farm, identical with those which would be interferes with the Osage Minerals merits, Wind Capital Group argued which would be built near Bur- presented at a later trial.” Estate and would prevent produc- the company is “exposed to immi- bank and U.S. Highway 60 west of The Nation objected to Wind Capi- ers from mining oil and natural gas nent, permanent, irreparable harm. Pawhuska. Wind Capital Group, tal Group’s consolidation motion and in the area where the wind farm is The lawsuit jeopardizes the very which planned to start construction argued there is not enough “discov- proposed. The project will be built on existence of the wind facility not be- no later than December, is concerned ery” time to research and build its privately owned ranch lands, but the cause Plaintiff’s claim has any merit, the lawsuit will jeopardize the proj- case against the company if the mo- Minerals Estate shareholders own but because of the immediate, practi- cal impact of a pending lawsuit (even a meritless one) on Project finance- ability (sic) and schedule.” Congress to consider assuming See Wind Farm —Continued on Page 5 Wah-Sha-She State Park operations By Benny Polacca Osage News 109 E. 6th St. • Pawhuska, OK 74056 The Second Osage Nation Con- (918) 287-5668 gress is considering legislation to www.osagenews.org take over a former state park in northeastern Osage County that was Editor closed earlier this year due to state Shannon Shaw budget cuts. In March, Oklahoma’s Tourism Reporters and Recreation Department an- Benny Polacca nounced the closures of seven state Sunnie Clahchischiligi parks, which took effect in August. Wah-Sha-She State Park, located Editorial Assistant west of Copan, was among the facili- Chalene Toehay ties with its state funding slashed. The ON Executive Branch later Osage News announced it would study the feasi- Editorial Board bility of transferring the park opera- Teresa Lamsam tions to the Nation. But the transfer Denny McAuliffe Courtesy photo from travelok.com See WaH-SHa-SHe State Park Robert Warrior —Continued on Page 5 Shoreline of Lake Hulah at Wah-Sha-She State Park in northeastern Osage County. Osage News • osagenews.org December 2011 3 Three Osages appointed to newly created Health Authority Board By Benny Polacca Osage News Osage Nation Principal Chief John Red Eagle has appointed three Osages to the new Health Author- ity Board created by Congressional legislation during the 2011 Tzi-Zho Session. Ron Shaw, MD, Tim Tall Chief and Lynette Freeman have been named to the board created by ONCA 11- 116. The board will be responsible for “consolidating and implementing the organizational structure of the Osage Nation Health and Wellness Division.” At the board’s initial meeting Nov. 16, the board met to select its offi- cers and review the legislation which states the board must have a mini- mum of three members but up to five can be appointed to it. The members are required to have experience in fields which include: public health and wellness; Indian health; medi- Photo by Benny Polacca/Osage News cine; pharmaceuticals; and mental Tim Tall Chief; Lynette Freeman and Ron Shaw, MD, have been named to the Osage Nation Health Authority Board in November health. 2011 by Principal Chief John Red Eagle. Tall Chief and Freeman selected Shaw as board chairman, which is dian health issues. Tall Chief, who a nurse for the Kanza Health Clinic, to have more control over providing the same post he held on the Na- ran for Principal Chief in the 2010 which serves the Kaw Nation. health care to their people. tion’s Health and Wellness Advisory election, previously served as deputy Upcoming issues the Health Au- The board will also be charged with Board, which ceased in the 2011 fis- commissioner of health and adminis- thority Board will consider will be adopting policies and procedures to cal year. Shaw recently started his guide the operations of the Nation’s tration for the Oklahoma State De- implementing the process needed for new post as clinical director for the Health and Wellness Division facili- partment of Health. the Nation to enter into a compact- Citizen Potawatomi Nation Health ties; be responsible for credentialing Tall Chief, who recently started ing agreement for the Indian Health Services in Shawnee, which compris- of the division’s staff; and to develop working for the Citizen Potawatomi Services clinic in Pawhuska. Under es of two clinics. the division’s annual budget. Tall Chief, who also served on the Nation Health Services as its direc- the federal Indian Self-Determina- The next Health Authority Board Health and Wellness Advisory Board tor of health services, hired Shaw as tion and Education Assistance Act, meeting has been slated for Dec. 21 with Shaw, is vice chairman and also clinical director. tribes have the options of contracting at the Executive Branch office in carries experience in public and In- Freeman has previously worked as or signing self-governance compacts Pawhuska. 4 December 2011 Osage News • osagenews.org

Shareholders Receive Settlement –Continued from Page 1 off houses, credit cards, medical Sanders Supercenter and asked how Osages thought it was good that the constituents asking for advice and/ bills; others said they were going to they obtained the addresses and why Chief’s Office was looking out for or recommendations on purchasing work on their homes, build homes they sent the offer to all Osages and their financial interests and others a new vehicle with their settlement and one woman purchased her first not just Osage shareholders. felt it was inappropriate. money. Insinuations by anyone that home. Others bought new cars, one “We had a handful of Osage Nation One such person was Osage Con- there is a ‘tit for tat’ are unnecessary, tribal members buy cars from us and gressman William “Kugee” Super- man said he got a root canal and one inflammatory, and unfortunate,” woman joked in the Osage language we were informed that there was go- naw. said Chris White, Executive Director that she bought some underwear. ing to be some payout to them from “This seems to me that endorsing of Governmental Affairs. While some were more reserved the government from headrights, any dealerships is an improper use about their settlement and others and obviously that would help any- of the tribal website and shows ex- “We know we won’t be able to sat- didn’t think it was appropriate to body purchase a vehicle,” said Jer- tremely bad judgment on the part isfy the detractors of this admin- speak about it at all. emy Bird, general manager. “We just of the Executive Branch. Several istration, but we’re going to try to The Osage News asked the Osage assist any Osage who asks for help,” Agency Superintendent Melissa Cur- he said. rey, if it could have a complete break- down of data showing the percentage Settlement of shareholders that were Osage ver- “From the Georgia pines to the sus non-Osage and a percentage of On Nov. 14 the United States de- shareholders who were receiving less posited $345 million in the Tribal than half of a full-headright. Currey California beaches; Thank you Lord Trust Account and the settlement did not get back with the Osage News was disbursed to all shareholders of by press time. for these gifts to my Osage people. the Osage Minerals Estate Nov. 28 at midnight. Shareholders, whether Car salesmen We now have a song for victory they are Osage, non-Osage, or enti- Some Osages were surprised when ties, received $155,136 per full share. they received a letter in the mail The settlement is the result of from a car dealership with an exclu- among our great Osage Nation!” months of negotiations with the sive offer for down payment assis- U.S. following U.S. Court of Federal tance Nov. 14. –James Dailey Claims ruling that said the Osage The mailing came from Barry Tribe was owed approximately $330 Sanders Supercenter in Stillwater million for claims arising from 1972 and offered “special discounts” to to 2000. Osage tribal members for a limited got the zip codes for the Reservation, people would have knowledge that The settlement agreement, ex- time. The letter said Osages need or the area, of the Osage Nation, and this was being done and I am disap- ecuted Oct. 14, paid the tribe $380 not worry about poor credit scores then filtered that by a Native Ameri- pointed that someone didn’t speak million to compensate for its claims because, “funds have been allocated can filter, making the assumption up and prevent it,” Supernaw wrote of historical losses to its trust funds specifically for this event.” that most Native Americans living in his Nov. 27 “Notes to the Nation.” and interest income as a result of the The car company offered Osages in the area are Osage.” “I am hoping that the Congress $2,500 down or they can use that Bird did not know the specifics of and Minerals Council will issue government’s mismanagement of money as cash back after the sale is the Osage Trust Case or the settle- press releases clarifying that they trust assets. completed. The offer ended Nov. 30. ment payout to Osage shareholders had nothing to do with it and will Language in the settlement will Osage reaction was split on blog Nov. 28 and assumed that all Osages condemn any such improper use of implement measures to strengthen sites and Facebook pages. Many were receiving the settlement mon- tribal resources,” Supernaw said. management of the tribe’s trust as- Osages wondered how the car com- ey. However, an email later sent to No press releases were issued but sets and improve communications pany obtained Osage addresses, the car dealership asking whether or the Chief’s Office did have this to between the DOI and the Osage, some accusing the law firms that not all Osages can take advantage say: including procedures for delivery of represented the Nation in the Osage of the offer if they received a letter “This is another one of those situ- periodic statements of accounts, an- Trust Case and others accusing 2010 or not. The representative said that ations where this administration nual audit information, and informa- election candidates of leaking the Osages need only present their tribal is ‘damned if you do, damned if you tion relating to the management of Osage voter list. membership card. don’t.’ It is well known that many the mineral estate to the tribe. Wilson Pipestem of Pipestem Law Soon after the Chief’s Office issued tribal members have received cer- Firm quickly dismissed the allega- a statement that endorsed three tain solicitations from one or more The settlement agreement also tion on the Osage Facebook page car dealerships. They were located car dealerships via direct mail and provides dispute resolution provi- “Osages for Fiscal Responsibility.” in Bartlesville, Ponca City and Tul- through emails. The Office of the sions to reduce the likelihood of fu- The Osage News contacted Barry sa. The reaction was mixed. Some Chiefs has received several calls from ture litigation. Osage News • osagenews.org December 2011 5

Wah-Sha-She State Park –Continued from Page 2 Wind Farm would be contingent on the approval Executive Branch then filed a binder care center in Pawhuska as an ex- –Continued from Page 2 of Congress, which must appropriate containing a proposed lease agree- ample of a maintenance issue. “If the merits of Plaintiff’s tribal funding for the park opera- ment for the park just before the Tzi- “We have to ask ourselves, ‘if we claim are not resolved via this tions and staffing to maintain it. Zho Session’s start in September. can’t maintain that on our campus, expedited procedure, this ac- An appropriations bill was filed in The bill, ONCA 11-130, was then how do we really believe we’re go- October to fund the operations of the filed for consideration in October just tion will significantly impair ing to do a good job in maintaining a park, which would be renamed Hu- before the session ended. (Wind Capital Group’s) ability park,’” Red Corn said. He motioned lah Lake Park. The bill, ONCA 11- The park transfer proposal faced to qualify for the federal pro- 130 sponsored by Congressman John an initial round of scrutiny during for the committee to table the bill to duction tax credit as well as Free, proposes to add about $159,000 the Nov. 10 Congressional Com- the call of the committee chairman to the ON Properties Department mittee on Government Operations Congressman Daniel Boone. the financing premised on the budget for the park operations. where questions and concerns arose White said the Nation should credit,” wrote attorney Craig ONCA 11-130 received initial con- regarding the lease agreement, costs consider taking on the park, add- Fitzgerald, who is represent- sideration on Nov. 10 during the 11th and whether the Nation should take ing “it adds to the quality of life for ing Wind Capital Group in the Special Congressional Session’s first on the park. If the Nation assumes the community.” He noted the Na- case. day, but was tabled by a Congressio- the lease and operations, the lease tion has supported other local parks In a declaration also filed nal committee before the entire Con- will expire in 2016. with contributions, including Fair- gress voted to end the session after Raymond Lasley, executive advi- Oct. 26, Robert Scheuermann, fax, Skiatook and the skatepark in four days. The bill is listed again as a sor of programs for Chief Red Eagle’s Wind Capital Group’s senior consideration item for the 12th Spe- office, told the committee the park Pawhuska. vice president of finance stated cial Session called by Principal Chief would be staffed by one full-time em- White also said other ON depart- “the economics and long term John Red Eagle which starts Dec. 5. ployee and two seasonal workers. Ac- ments could use the park, especially financing of the Project hinge Chris White, executive director of cording to ONCA 11-130, salaries for for educational purposes. It’s un- on the availability of the fed- governmental affairs for Chief Red the three positions total $69,872 with known which day the park budget eral Production Tax Credit, Eagle’s office, said he visited with other expenses including: $12,860 bill will reappear during the 12th which was designed to pro- state park officials once hearing for operations; $5,500 for rental and Special Session. mote construction of alterna- of the former Wah-Sha-She State equipment maintenance; $27,312 for Osages living in the area have con- Park’s demise. The state negotiated indirect costs; and $43,500 for occu- tacted the Congress asking the Na- tive energy sources such as transfers of the other closing parks pancy. wind farms. To qualify for this to municipal and tribal government Congressman William “Kugee” Su- tion to consider the park operation credit, the Project must be in entities in their respective vicinities pernaw, in committee, said he want- duties. with hopes the Osage Nation would ed to see more details on the budget The former Wah-Sha-She State service by the end of 2012.” assume the park, which sits just in- breakdown for costs to the Nation. Park is located off the shore of Lake The Nation has previously side Osage County’s eastern border “I’m trying to figure out what we’re Hulah with “hulah” coming from the stated it is not against renew- north of Bartlesville. getting into . . . This is a unique deal, Osage word for eagle, which is pro- able energy efforts, but is op- Free said he was contacted by this budget should reflect what is nounced Hu-Tha. posing efforts to build the wind Osages who live in the area and were there.” Osage citizen David Lockman, farm and argues that oil and disappointed to see the park close. Lasley said the Nation would be who lives in the park region, wrote natural gas mining operations “I’ve had a lot of calls from constitu- responsible for park expenses includ- an email to government officials in ents up in that area and they were ing water, electricity, propane gas could be disrupted by the wind all pretty heartsick about this . . . be- and bulk fuel. Other items needing September stating his family has en- farm turbine construction. ing closed down and I thought we’d attention include hooking up a work joyed the park and its camping ame- In its Oct. 18 complaint, the nities for several years. take a very hard look at it,” he said. computer and telephone for employ- Nation argues: “The construc- “This is a big part of our lives The park land (approximately 200 ee use, he said. tion and placement of 94 wind acres) is owned by the U.S. Army Congresswoman Shannon Ed- and (we) would like to see it remain turbines, met [meteorological] Corps of Engineers, the tribe would wards said she would like to see a open so my grand kids can enjoy the towers, high voltage electric not own the land, but will be respon- written legal opinion on the liability same lifestyle that I have,” Lockman sible for its maintenance and must costs for the Nation. wrote. “There is not much for these underground transmission sign a lease with the Corps of Engi- Congressman Raymond Red Corn kids to do in this area except go to lines, power substations, stor- neers, White said. said he was concerned whether the the lake during the summer and age yards, outbuildings, and A feasibility study was conducted Nation should take on the park ven- roads will significantly inter- by the Executive Branch to examine ture with other maintenance and spend time with family and friends. fere with Osage Nation’s, the a potential transfer agreement with property matters which need ad- If we take this away from our kids in the Corps of Engineers for the park dressing elsewhere. He referred to the area, there will be no reason for dominant estate holders’, right operations and upkeep once receiv- a pile of old playground equipment them to stay in this area to help keep of access.” ing Chief Red Eagle’s approval. The and discarded pipes left near the day this community alive.” 6 December 2011 Osage News • osagenews.org

Holiday Gala Canceled –Continued from Page 1 Numerous calls and emails were No gala sent to event organizers and oth- Once news of the cancellation ers involved in the event that was spread some asked “why?” While oth- supposed to be held at the Osage ers praised the news of the cancella- Event Center, but messages were tion and those in support of the gala not returned. were quick to share their thoughts. Soon after, speculation began as Charles Red Corn, Osage author to why the event was canceled. Some and Osage News blogger, posted said Nike N7 had pulled from the on the “Osage for Fiscal Responsi- event for unknown reasons and oth- bility” Facebook page a letter his ers said the Notah Begay III Foun- daughter Moira Red Corn sent to dation was the one who decided to him in regards to the cancellation. hold off, because of “controversy” In it she said she was saddened to surrounding the event. see a positive event end on such a Friday afternoon, Moira Red Corn, negative note. Osage physician, board member for “In hind-sight, our vision of what NB3 Foundation and one of the many the Osage Holiday Gala could accom- “Osage citizens” behind the event plish was too large. I am sad that we put speculation of Nike N7 pulling could not pull it off and make the out to rest when she simply replied “no” when asked if Nike N7 was the projected $100,000 profit that we one who withdrew from the event. had hoped (above what the chief and Red Corn said organizers were minerals council contributed). In at- working to send out a press release tempting to raise funds from outside by Friday evening but as of Monday sources, it became an insurmount- the News hadn’t received one. able task with the toxic spirit coming The Osage Tribal Museum, The from elected officials, political hope- Osage Foundation, the Notah Be- fuls and hearsay written in the form gay III Foundation and the Nike N7 of news. But I walk away with hope. Fund would have benefited from the We have brought this important is- funds raised from the gala. Had the sue to the table, and I hope our com- event resumed, the money raised for munity keeps in mind that we cannot the foundations and fund is said to accomplish anything if we continue have essentially benefited the Osage to hurt each other and undermine ef- youth. forts of volunteers,” she wrote. Tickets were set at $200 a plate Ryan Red Corn followed with a and $10,000 for a premium table of lengthy post of his own on the same 10 that included a VIP Reception at Facebook page stating that he was the host hotel. The gala had already disappointed in the “behavior of Courtesy Photo raised $100,000, with large dona- some of our Osage people” and called The invitation for the Osage Holiday Gala that was scheduled for Dec. 10. tions coming from the Osage Nation it “salty behavior” that surrounded Chief’s Office and the two law firms the gala. if the gala were to have happened by stating that the event wasn’t can- that represented the Nation in the “At this point, I must say, I am se- the Osage Nation would have only celed because of “toxic” comments or Osage Trust Case – Akin Gump verely disappointed in the behavior had to pay for “PART of a field on “salty behavior” but instead due to Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP and of some our Osage people. By this unused land that the tribe rightfully poor planning and high-ticket prices. Pipestem Law Firm. All three do- time, many of you have heard that owns ONE block from Pawhuska’s “There is only one reason events nated $30,000 each. The Osage Min- the Osage Gala has been cancelled partially economically depressed like this are cancelled (sic), low tick- erals Council also recently donated (sic). Due to a variety of reasons, but commercial epicenter….” As opposed et sales. The late notice and $200.00 $10,000 to the gala as well. undoubtedly mostly due to the tena- to the “100% of the costs associated ticket price excluded 95% of the Since its debut the gala has raised cious amounts of energy produced with the construction…” that would Osage Nation. When they cancelled by this forum to make the event es- concerns by politicians, sharehold- be the tribe’s burden without outside there were only 48 confirmed attend- ers and community members to the sentially politically toxic for all those funds. ees on their site. Cancelling was the point that some Osages felt the gala involved. So for that, this forum de- Jim Ryan, a congressional hope- right thing to do in order to make the was inappropriate, while others serves a pat on the back. Congratula- ful who recently announced his can- felt it would be a good thing for the tions,” Ryan Red Corn wrote. didacy for the Third Osage Nation See Holiday Gala CanCeled Osage youth in the community. Ryan Red Corn went on to say that Congress, was quick to shoot back —Continued on Page 8 Osage News • osagenews.org December 2011 7 Chief Red Eagle fills vacancies on gaming board, commission Osage News Osage Nation Principal Chief John Red Eagle has appointed two additional people to fill the remain- ing vacancies on the Nation’s Gam- ing Enterprise Board and Gaming Commission. Nicole (Tallchief) Pratt (Osage) has been named to the Gaming Com- mission. She joins Doug Revard and Fred Beartrack who were named and confirmed to the gaming commission in May. Pratt works as manager of cash and corporate accounting services for The Nordam Group in Tulsa, ac- cording to the Executive Branch. Her work focuses managing finances in- cluding accounts payable, accounts receivable and developing policies and procedures for compliance objec- tives. She held a similar post while Photo by Benny Polacca/Osage News previously working for Hilti Inc., Serving on the Osage Nation Gaming Commission are: Nicole (Tallchief) Pratt, Doug Revard and Fred Beartrack. also in Tulsa. Pratt’s nomination is subject to confirmation by the ON Congress Tribe; and finance director for the during its Hun-Kah Session next Pawnee Nation. spring. Also appointed this fall for the gaming board were Candy Thomas Fifth appointee named (Osage) and Randy Carnett. All three for gaming board will be subject to Congressional con- Chief Red Eagle has named Ralph firmation during the Hun-Kah Ses- Haymond (Pawnee) to the newly ex- panded Gaming Enterprise Board. sion. The other two board members Haymond, who has previously are Stacy Laskey and Aaron Big- worked in gaming operations for horse. other Oklahoma tribes, fills the re- Congressional legislation passed maining seat on the newly expanded during the Tzi-Zho Session which Gaming Enterprise Board. Haymond’s experience includes expanded the Gaming Enterprise serving as general managers for the Board from three to five members. Pawnee Nation’s Travel Plaza and Last year the Gaming Commission Casino & Trading Post operations; Photo by Benny Polacca/Osage News was expanded, via legislation, to general manager of the Otoe-Mis- Ralph Haymond takes oath as an Osage Nation Gaming Enterprise Board member. ON souria’s Seven Clans Casino; direc- three members from a single gaming Supreme Court Chief Justice Charles Lohah administers the oath. Haymond (Pawnee) tor of tribal enterprises for the Iowa commissioner position. was appointed to the board by Principal Chief John Red Eagle in November. 8 December 2011 Osage News • osagenews.org

Holiday Gala Canceled –Continued from Page 6 best use of the $100,000 dollars that tion to give back to my tribe, and I Pueblo) that strives to reduce child- The Museum also planned to host had already been donated,” Ryan hope my efforts with this group of hood obesity and diabetes through its annual Christmas tree auction at wrote. “While you are attempting Osage citizens I am able to affect the soccer and golf programs for Native the gala, with three decorated trees to blame the failure of this event on lives of young Osages in a positive American youth. The money was donated by Osage artists were to be “toxic” comments made on this site. way,” Red Corn said. going to be used to conduct sports auctioned off. Due to the cancellation The fact is that it failed because of The schedule of events during the camps through the NB3 Foundation the Museum has decided to instead the short notice and the high ticket gala included a reception and silent for the Osage youth. take sealed bids during the annual price. As I have said, don’t give up on auction that was to begin at 5 p.m., Lastly, proceeds would have gone Christmas Home Tour in Skiatook this event with proper planning and where Osage artist Yatika Fields toward the Nike N7 Fund, a fund in- a reasonable ticket price this could was to produce a live art painting. spiring a movement toward health- on Dec. 11, from 2-4 p.m. Admission be a money maker for all the groups A mixture of art, jewelry, packages ier tribal communities through the is free but those who wish to attend involved.” and sports memorabilia were to be Nike N7 Summit and by awarding must each have a ticket that can be Wilson Pipestem, Osage lawyer on featured in the silent auction. grants to health and wellness pro- obtained at the Museum. the Osage Trust Case, Notah Begay A dinner and live auction were to grams in tribal communities with The inaugural gala committee was III Foundation Chair and a member begin at 6:30 p.m. and the evening profit gained from the selling of Nike also going to honor a local commu- of the Nike N7 board, who is also be- was to wrap up with a live concert N7 products. Sam McCraken (As- nity activist who contributes to the hind the event, remained quiet up from Ojibwe country singer Crystal siniboine/Sioux), the visionary and wellbeing of Osage youth through until the cancellation. He stood up Shawanda, who is also a board mem- chairman on the N7 Fund board was sport. for the event and responded to Jim ber for the Nike N7 fund. to attend the gala and participate in Since word of the cancellation has One-third of the proceeds was said the honoring of the Osage communi- Ryan’s comment about poor plan- spread the gala planning committee, ning and high-ticket prices. to go to the Osage Foundation, a not- ty activist, according to the release. Nike N7, the Notah Begay III Foun- “Mr. Ryan, You could not be more for-profit corporation created by the In the release, Begay said he was dation and the Osage Foundation wrong. This event failed because of Osage Nation, to build a brand new excited to bring the services of his the attacks leveled by you and others soccer field in Pawhuska. foundation to the Osage youth. have not officially commented on the who were suspicious of the motives One-third of the proceeds was to “I’m looking forward to visiting gala and what will happen next. of those who were trying to create go to The Notah Begay III Founda- the Osage Reservation for this event For now, the Osage youth remain something positive for the Osage tion, a 501c3 corporation started by and bringing out sports programs to without a soccer field and the specu- community. In one case, one of the PGA Golfer Notah Begay III (Navajo/ young Osages,” Begay said. lation continues. largest Osage vendors decided not to support the event because of the “controversy” surrounding the event that you and others worked to cre- ate,” Pipestem wrote. Readers of Ryan Red Corn’s post continued to flood in with their com- ments on what he, Ryan and Pipe- stem posted on late Monday.

Before the storm The gala initially started off as an event that could help the Osage Youth and eventually blossomed into an event where three organi- zations would benefit and in return lend their services in respect to their organization’s object to benefit the Osage youth. In the initial press release, Moira Red Corn said the event was put to- gether by “Osage citizens” who were interested in raising money for a soccer field to be built in Pawhuska. She said the group of Osages simply wanted to help the Osage youth. “I know as a doctor I’m in a posi- Osage News • osagenews.org December 2011 9 Gray Horse War Mothers send care packages to Osage troops By Sunnie Clahchischiligi Osage News Twenty white postal boxes lined the doorway of Mary and Harry Els- berry’s Skiatook home. Some boxes were filled with every- day items like tooth brushes, sun- flower seeds, magazines and beef jerky and somewhere at the bottom was a small packet of Pizza Hut Crushed Red Pepper. “My daughter (an Air Force vet- eran) said they (soldiers) like these,” Margie Burkhart said, as she held up a packet of the peppers. “I guess

“…this was a way we could show them a little honor and respect…we appreciate what they’re doing.” –Mary Elsberry

Photo by Chalene Toehay/Osage News it was just the thought that someone Mary Elsberry (left) and Paula Cedar Barclay, Gray Horse War Mothers, package one of 20 care packages that will be sent to Osage sent her something.” soldiers serving in the Middle East. The two mothers along with Margie Burkhart, and other Gray Horse War Mothers, placed card- Whether it’s hand warmers, a cof- board boxes throughout several offices at the Osage Nation offices in November and collected donations for the care packages. fee mug or a peppermint mint, more than eight Osage Warriors (active past summer and decided to send The women placed cardboard box- ably about 19, that was the saddest, military men and women) will be packages to Osage soldiers serving es at four Osage Nation offices and sending her off and she was so young, getting Christmas care packages in the Middle East. the one that got the highest traffic I was just so frightened for her.” from the Gray Horse War Mothers Burkhart, from Tahlequah, said and donations was at the Osage Na- The boxes will first go to Osage this year. the women volunteer with a lot of tion Tax Commission. military men and women then any The women spent the last six or veteran activities but wanted to do Burkhart said as she helped fill boxes left over will go to Pawnee and seven months preparing the packag- something for the active soldiers this the boxes with goods donated she Otoe members. Anything else left es and spent Nov. 30 at the Elsberry year. couldn’t help but think of what it will go to anyone else serving in the home putting the packages together, “We just kind of want to give back felt like to watch her children, Scott Middle East. ready to ship off to the Middle East. to them and let them know that we Lowe (Navy) and Lauren Lowe (Air Paula Cedar Barclay, from The group of 12 War Mothers appreciate them and everything Force) leave and serve their country. Pawhuska, said as she helped fill the (women who have or had children in they’ve done for the country,” she “Mine was in the Navy…I was boxes she thought about the veter- the military) and 11 Angels (women said. “And hopefully this kind of con- just thinking about how he was so who don’t have children in the mili- veys a little bit that we’re thinking young,” she said. “When she (Bur- See Care PaCkaGeS tary but help out), got together this of them.” khart’s daughter) left she was prob- —Continued on Page 10 10 December 2011 Osage News • osagenews.org

Care Packages Osage embroidery business taking orders –Continued from Page 9 Placing orders around ans in Chilocco who lost their lives in the Korean War and the holidays ensures about how she pushed her son into the military. completion before “Chilocco was known for the 45th Division, boys sent In-Lon-Schka to Korea, and we lost a lot of our boys in Korea, I had really Osage News close friends that were in the Pat Lewis knows a little some- military…” she said. thing about “keen” dance outfits. “I just geared my son toward Since 1996 he has made it his the military when he was a business to embroider Osage dance little boy…that’s how I became clothes, or anything Osage that can interested, through the vets be embroidered. coming to Chilocco.” That includes (but is not limited The packages sent will take to) shawls, skirts, women’s/men’s weeks to arrive and every item blankets, men’s dance suits, mocca- in each box will have to go sins, leggings, hats (one of his em- through inventory for U.S Cus- broidered hats is a part of the Osage toms and Border Protection. collection in the National Museum If all goes smoothly the re- of the American Indian), towels, tote cipients will receive the pack- bags, shirts, jackets, hand towels ages by Christmas. and more. Mary Elsberry, a War Moth- “I need advanced warning, as er, who volunteered to inven- long as possible,” Lewis said. “I pre- tory the packages, said she was fer not to have the Monday before glad to be a part of the effort. Grayhorse (dances), which one of my “I just think this was a way relatives, who will remain nameless, we could show them a little asked me Thursday of Grayhorse if honor and respect, show them I could have something done before we appreciate what they’re Hominy – and I had to tell them no.” doing,” Elsberry said. “Being Based out of his home in Bristow, selfless makes me feel good, to Lewis has many tribal customers help somebody.” from many different nations. Dela- She said as she helped put ware, Kiowa, Creek, as long as the the packages together she individual brings in the pattern thought of her son Loren John and lets him know how they want it Kampley, an Army veteran. placed he can do it. She said she thought of his He invites all his clients to come in first Christmas away from for a consultation before he begins. home and how care packages The client provides their own broad- weren’t sent back then. cloth and then picks the colors and “Thinking about my son pattern, which is then digitized for Photo by Chalene Toehay/Osage News when he was away for the first time, it would have been nice the embroidery machine. Cory Spotted Bear and his mother LaVina Clark pose for the Osage News at the Pawhus- His work has been featured in ka In-Lon-Schka dances this year. Spotted Bear wears a men’s dance suit embroidered if someone would have sent many Paying for the Drum ceremo- by Patrick Lewis. him something. I was thinking nies, either on women’s skirts or on about all the family members women’s shawls, he said. house becomes real hectic during Lon-Schka Committee and dances at that have served, we respect them,” she said. “(I hope they) “Around Christmas, or after May.” all three districts. Christmas, I’ll check with poten- get a big smile and good feel- Lewis also added that he refuses For more information call (918) tial clients and see if they still want ings inside, and (know) some- something, don’t wait until May to to work during the dances, since he 798-9814 or email him at patrick- body cares about them.” come see me,” he said laughing. “My is a member of the Pawhuska In- [email protected]. Osage News • osagenews.org December 2011 11 Walter Echo-Hawk asks ON Congress to help expand TU Indian law program By Benny Polacca of Indian law education for our part Osage News of the country,” said Walter Echo- Hawk to the Second Osage Nation A proposed University of Tulsa Congress Nov. 15 during the 11th College of Law project is aiming to Special Session. expand its Indian law program. Echo-Hawk (Pawnee), a seasoned The Worcester Sovereignty Proj- attorney who previously worked ect, a program that seeks to provide with the Native American Rights opportunities for Native Americans Fund and now works for Crowe and to learn Indian law. Dunlevy law firm in Tulsa, said “This is probably the most single this project comes at a crucial time when tribes are dealing with more important development in the field tribal sovereignty issues and dealing with more U.S. Supreme Court rul- ings against cases focused on Native Echo-Hawk: American issues. The project could help Native at- Legal trends torneys defend their people, he said. Echo-Hawk developed the project aren’t in favor of along with other TU officials after joining the school over a year ago as an adjunct faculty member. Native nations “Shortly after I came on board, By Benny Polacca (TU College of Law Dean Janet Le- Osage News vit) asked me to work with the ad- Walter Echo-Hawk is won- ministration, and the staff to develop dering whether the Indian or expand under her leadership, sig- law profession is dead. nificantly expand the existing Indian In a presentation to the law program,” Echo-Hawk told the Second Osage Nation Con- Congress. He said brainstorming for gress Nov. 15 during their the project took about six months. 11th Special Session on an The Worcester Sovereignty Proj- Indian Law program at the ect proposes field study programs for University of Tulsa, the vet- Native TU law students including eran Native attorney told the externships and scholarship oppor- congress that it’s never been tunities. It also focuses on training more vital for Native nations future attorneys to defend cases deal- to have attorneys with knowl- ing with sovereignty issues heard in federal, state or tribal courtrooms. edge of Indian Law. “Federal Indian law provides the Photo by Benny Polacca/Osage News “The court observers tell us legal framework for tribal govern- Seasoned Indian law attorney Walter Echo-Hawk speaks to the Second Osage Nation that since 1985, Indian na- ment, for the work that we do on Congress on Nov. 15 about a proposed project, which would expand the federal Indian tions have lost over 80 percent a daily basis. Through this frame- law program at the University of Tulsa where he is an adjunct faculty member. of their cases that come before work in the last two generations, the Supreme Court,” Echo- we’ve really witnessed a remarkable Indian law. But today (in 2011), we scholarship program to offset the in- Hawk said. “That means that rise in our modern Indian nations,” have some very serious challenges curred debts for the Native law school prison inmates fare better in Echo-Hawk said of the field, which facing federal Indian law.” students who can rake up $80,000 to the U.S. Supreme Court than includes “our political rights, our Scholarship and learning opportu- $90,000 in tuition bills. He said an See leGal trendS human rights, our civil rights, our nities —Continued on Page 23 cultural rights – they’re all protect- Echo-Hawk said the Worcester See eCHo-HaWk SPeakS ed within this framework of federal Sovereignty Project would create a —Continued on Page 23 12 December 2011 Osage News • osagenews.org Chief Red Eagle intervenes after treasurer issues letters to Congress By Benny Polacca question is crucial as it pertains to ernment branches but the annual Branstetter said she believes the Osage News previously unspent money, which budget cannot exceed the projected letter should have come from Chief was used to fund the two bills Kem- revenues. Red Eagle and not Kemble. Red Ea- The Second Osage Nation Con- ble took issue with. The letters sparked concern by gle, who was at the Nov. 10 Special gress ended its 11th Special Session Jones’ opinion also states: “The several Congress members that the Session, was asked by Branstetter if on Nov. 15 pending a review of the Congress should develop the appro- Executive Branch is not recogniz- he had any response to the Congres- Nation’s appropriation laws. priate resolutions or laws to set out ing appropriations approved during Osage Nation Treasurer William sional concerns about Kemble’s let- a process or procedure whereby the the Tzi-Zho Session and also at issue Kemble sent two letters to the Leg- ter. He said he did not. unspent appropriations that have was the remaining tribal revenue islative Branch in which he shared Kemble’s revenue amount avail- reverted back to Treasury can be ac- amount to appropriate money during differing views on how the tribal gov- able differs from that of Congress cessed for use by the Osage Nation.” the Special Session and the remain- ernment appropriations are spent. Congressional legal counsel Loyed The Congressional Commerce and ing fiscal year. The move left several supplemen- “Trey” Gill addressed the letters dur- For example, Kemble noted his tal budget requests as well as ap- Economic Development Committee ing the Nov. 14 session in which he to-date schedule of FY 2012 appro- propriation requests for the Nation’s also sought an opinion from an out- announced that he and Branstetter priations differs from the Congres- 2012 higher education scholarships side accounting firm regarding the would have a meeting with Chief sional schedule that was sent to his and health benefit card program ta- appropriation law before the Kemble Red Eagle regarding the letters office. His schedule included two bled until the issue was resolved. A letters were completed. that day. Congressional appropriations total- 12th Special Session has been called The Nov. 10 opinion offered by Gill said Kemble’s letters ap- ing $2.5 million for establishing a re- by Principal Chief John Red Eagle to Barber and Bartz, P.C. states: “At pear to show a differing amount of volving Osage War Memorial Fund finish consideration of the legislative least where the appropriations bill money remaining for appropriations ($500,000 for ONCA 11-86) and a $2 items. specifically so provides, if appropri- compared to numbers reported by million revolving fund to purchase The 12th Special Session is sched- ated funds are not spent by the end Congressional staff budget analyst restricted real property in Osage uled to begin Dec. 5. at 10 a.m. of the fiscal year, the appropriation Jason Zaun. According to Congress, lapses and the funds become un- County (ONCA 11-67) to be spent with FY 2012 money. The Congress the Nation has $9.6 million in re- encumbered. Thus, they can be re- maining tribal revenues to spend. Chief’s Office intervenes appropriated by Congress for other challenged Kemble’s opinion because Issues raised by Kemble’s letters those two bills were appropriated According to Kemble, the Nation had purposes.” $6.9 million remaining with the two last month include whether appro- Chief Red Eagle wrote: “Our Con- with FY 2011 money and should not revolving fund bills accounted in FY priation bills can be funded with un- stitution may, at times, not be as be spent with FY 2012 money. 2012 spending. spent money from a previous fiscal clear as we would like. But that After reading the letter, Congress- Gill said Kemble’s opinion creates year. The issue was raised after Con- Constitution grants appropriation man Geoffrey Standing Bear ad- “a large issue because the Executive gress voted in the Tzi-Zho Session to to only one body, and that body is dressed Branstetter on a response. Branch has proposed $10,088,834 fund two bills (to build a war memo- the Osage Congress. If our Congress “This letter was addressed to you, this legislative session in appropria- rial and to build a revolving fund for does not have the authority to appro- so when you respond, can you please tions, which leaves us $3,169,918 in land purchase purposes) with un- priate these funds, then no one does, point out that the Treasurer has not the negative if the Treasurer’s cal- spent tribal funding from the 2011 and they will sit forever out of reach read the law, doesn’t understand culations are used…obviously that fiscal year, which ended Sept. 30. as a resource for the Osage People. what’s going on and that makes me would leave us no money to appro- Less than a week before the 12th To deny Congress this appropriation very nervous if this is the person in Special Session’s start, Chief Red authority is to deny services to the charge of our funds. My lack of confi- priate for the rest of the fiscal year.” dence in the Treasurer is lower today Eagle wrote to the Congress on Nov. Osage People. That is a conclusion I 30 stating, “I conclude that Congress than it was yesterday . . . I want to cannot reach.” 2012 higher education does indeed have the authority to ap- point out there was an extreme error propriate previously unspent funds.” made by the person in charge of our scholarships, health benefit The letter comes after Chief Red Kemble letters money.” card program need funding Eagle consulted with his office’s at- On Nov. 9, the day before the 11th Congressman Raymond Red Corn Congresswoman Shannon Ed- torneys and Attorney General Jeff Special Session’s start, Kemble sent also expressed concern over Kem- wards raised concern during the Jones on the issues raised by the let- two letters to Speaker Branstetter ble’s letters and that Kemble was not Nov. 10 session that Congress has ters. regarding the Nation’s remaining recognizing the approved appropria- not received accounting information Congressional Speaker Jerri Jean funds for government operations tions. “It leads one to believe that from Kemble so it may appropriate Branstetter requested an official AG and services which must stay below the Treasurer thinks that he has money for the health benefit card opinion from Jones who notes: “No the 2012 fiscal year threshold of $40 veto power over appropriations bills program for the next calendar year. where in the Constitution or Osage million, also referred to as the an- issued by the Congress and passed Without an appropriation passed for Nation law was found any guidance nual projected revenue amount. Ac- by the Congress.” Red Corn also the program offered to all Osages, as to what should be done concern- cording to the Osage Constitution, questioned whether Kemble’s letters ing the accessing of funds that have Congress enacts laws to appropri- reflected the position of the entire See CHieF’S oFFiCe interveneS reverted back to the Treasury.” The ate money for each of the three gov- Executive Branch. —Continued on Page 13 Osage News • osagenews.org December 2011 13

Chief’s Office Intervenes –Continued from Page 12

the health benefit card’s status is Act federal funding awarded to the unclear. Nation. The Nation’s higher education ONCA 12-05 appropriates an ad- scholarship program for 2012 classes ditional $11,206 to the Nation’s is also in question. The Congress is Communities of Excellence Tobacco considering a second bill to fund the Prevention Program and a budget scholarships after Chief Red Eagle modification for the Prevention Trib- pocket-vetoed an $8.9 million ap- al Youth Mentoring Program. propriation bill (ONCA 11-104) to establish a revolving fund for the scholarship funds shortly after the 12th Special Session Tzi-Zho Session ended Oct. 6. to start Dec. 5 Chief Red Eagle said he pocket- The 12th Special Session procla- vetoed the bill after the Executive mation announced by Chief Red Ea- Branch objected to ONCA 11-104 gle lists most of the items from the over concerns the bill’s scholarship 11th Special Session including: eligibility requirements would not • Amending the Nation’s equally serve all Osages applying for the financial aid. competitive bidding act to sole source to an Osage 11th Special Session Nation-owned company. • A resolution to approve the ends after four days Nation’s Election Board Branstetter and Gill said the 11th rules and regulations. Special Session legislative items con- • Appropriations to pay final tained mostly appropriation bills, a legal bills associated with the majority of which requested tribal federal reservation status funding, except two bills with federal case unsuccessfully appealed funding only. Those bills, ONCA 12- at the U.S. Supreme Court. 04 and 12-05 were fast tracked for • Financing legislation for 9-0 approvals by the Congress. Ab- sent that day were Congressmen An- Osage Casino expansion. thony Shackelford and Mark Simms • Budget modifications for gov- and Congresswoman Shannon Ed- ernment operations including: wards. the Education Department; ONCA 12-04 amends the Housing Prevention Department; Department’s FY 11 budget and ap- Counseling Center; Attor- propriates $1.7 million to the depart- ney General’s office; CDIB/ ment for Native American Housing Membership; Tribal Museum Assistance and Self Determination and the Tax Commission.

December 28th is the deadline for all submissions for the January 2012 issue of the

Mark it on your calendars! 14 December 2011 Osage News • osagenews.org

Osage Oil and Gas Summit raises Osage Nation $1.7 million at lease sales auction awards grants By Benny Polacca to Osage Osage News TULSA, Okla. – A total of $1.7 mil- County lion bonus was raised at the oil and gas lease sales auction held during organizations the annual Osage Oil and Gas Sum- mit on Nov. 9. Grants went to 32 The $1.7 million figure is nearly double the $864,940 raised during county organizations the 2010 auction. This year’s auction Osage News is the 13th one for the tribe attended The Office of Strategic Plan- by representatives from various oil ning & Grants Management and gas company representatives awarded $275,000 in grants at Tulsa’s Hyatt Regency hotel. The to 32 Osage County organiza- Osage Minerals Council and Bureau tions Nov. 22. of Indian Affairs oversaw the auc- Among those awarded were tion, which featured 160-acre tracts rural fire departments, emer- of land available for oil and/or gas gency medical service au- mining. thorities and organizations “This year’s sale had a little over Photo by Benny Polacca/Osage News providing services such as 100 tracts that fetched about $1.7 Representatives from Easley Auctions take bids on oil/gas land tract leases up for grabs CPR training and First Aid million, so needless to say we are all during the 2011 Osage Oil and Gas Summit on Nov. 9 in Tulsa. Seated to the right of training, according to a pre- very pleased about the result,” said podium is Osage Minerals Council Chairman Galen Crum. The auction raised over $1.7 pared release. OMC Chairman Galen Crum. “All million in bonus money from lease sales offered on over 100 tracts of land, which are Bobby Tallchief, director this points to the very high demand 160 acres apiece. of Osage Nation Emergency Osage oil leases are enjoying at this Management, and Dale Block, time. This demand is being fueled the land tracts auctioned, which are poses for a total bonus consideration a Korean War veteran and primarily by interest in pursuing nominated by producers, Crum said. of $1,590,785 which is an average Rural Firefighter Coordina- horizontal drilling techniques into Other leases sold for price amounts of $108.89 per acre and a total of tor, assisted the Nation in the including $5,000; $9,000; $20,000; review process. the previously underutilized Missis- 1,895 acres sold for oil mining pur- sippi formation.” $65,000; and $75,000. “The need for these funds poses for a total bonus consideration Oil and gas company representa- Immediately following the auc- is extremely high, and thou- tives from across the region attended tion, which stretched nearly two- of $110,800 which is an average of sands of people across the the auction, now in its second year and-a-half hours, the OMC met to $58.47 per acre. county will greatly ben- in being held during the annual Oil consider accepting the auction bonus The combined totals equaled a efit from this funding,” said and Gas Summit. Representatives total bid. bonus amount of $1,701,585, said Christopher Standing Bear, planner for the Osage Nation from Osage-owned Easley Auctions The successful bidder must pay 25 Hurlbert, who then told the OMC: presided over the auction bids before percent of all bonus bids today, said Office of Strategic Planning “We recommend that you approve announcing the winning prices from Melissa Currey, Superintendent & Grants Management. “Our the successful bidders. for the BIA Osage Agency office in the sale.” office worked diligently to re- At this year’s auction, a record- Pawhuska. The eight Council members unani- view each application, and we setting $100,000 was offered for In his report on the auction, mously approved the sale amount feel we have distributed the funds as fairly and widely as a land tract lease (for oil and gas Charles Hurlbert, of the Pawhuska raised. combination purposes) by Southern BIA office said there were “116 tracts possible.” “The money generated from the The grants have helped Properties. Other bidding companies for sale comprising 18,289 acres for sale are lease bonus payments and fund the purchase of new were Encana, Black Lava Resources, oil and gas combination purposes are included in the quarterly annu- equipment and technology for Kaiser Francis Anadarko and Per- and 13 tracts comprising 1,895 acres ity payments along with the royalty formance Energy Resources. The for oil mining purposes.” See GrantS aWarded lease duration is 18 months with a Hurlbert then said: “14,609 acres collections for that quarter,” Crum —Continued on Page 28 minimum price of $4,400 on most of sold for oil and gas combination pur- said. Osage News • osagenews.org December 2011 15 Osages take part in first ever Nike N7 Sports Summit By Sunnie Clahchischiligi Dunk demonstration from Nike N7 ployee store where exclusive Nike Corn and Ryan Red Corn. Moira Red Osage News Ambassador Kenny Dobbs. products could only be purchased by Corn, a physician in Norman, Okla., who is also a board member for the Four hundred health and wellness Attendees were also given a pri- Nike employees. Notah Begay III Foundation was officials and sports enthusiasts gath- vate tour of the Nike World Campus Two of the 400 attendees of the invited to the summit as Nike N7 ered at the first-ever Nike N7 Sports and a three-day pass to the Nike em- summit were Osages Moira Red works closely with the Foundation. Summit in Beaverton, Ore., held at Ryan Red Corn, Osage artist, creat- the Nike World Campus on Oct. 28 ed the branding designs for all of the to Oct. 30. summit posters, banners and more. The summit was organized by Moira Red Corn, who was also in Nike N7 to better educate and pro- town on NB3 Foundation business, vide tools for Native communities said the event proved to show prom- to better the lives of communities ise based on the attendance alone. through sport and creating positive “It’s very exciting to have such a change. well orchestrated production and I The three-day summit featured think that it’s just really first class, panels with Native American ath- I don’t think there’s any other way letes, community health leaders and to say that,” Moira Red Corn said. more. It was open to anyone and ev- “It’s stunning really, it’s a fabulous eryone with an interest in revamp- location, Portland’s a wonderful city, ing or starting up health programs in Nike’s got all kinds of clout behind it, their Native and Aboriginal commu- the atmosphere that they’re building nities throughout the United States off partnerships, just discussing with and Canada. other people . . .” The Nike N7 is an organization Ryan Red Corn said he thought committed to bettering Native Amer- the conference was a typical inaugu- ican and Aboriginal communities in ral event. He said overall the event the US and Canada with positive was well done. change through sport. Grants are “The conference is in its infancy, to created and made available for the expect it to be hitting on all cylinders communities to apply for through the as far as their goals and missions Nike N7 products sold worldwide. would be foolish, as an inaugural The profits gained from the sales are conference I know they got to capac- thrown into a fund that is funneled ity, they got to capacity pretty quick- ly, which means that there’s demand into grants that the Nike N7 board for that, I bet you the conference awards. probably increases by at least 33 per- Within the first day the summit cent next year if not larger,” he said. reached capacity of 400 participants “The goals of the conference which and had 200 people on a waiting list. is basically to reduce diabetes in In- Aside from the panels, N7 provided dian Country and the ideas behind it a variety of entertainment, catered are valid and strong, it’s just going to meals and gifts. Each participant take a awhile for them to best prac- was given a free pair of Nike N7 Lu- tices type of things to emerge and narGlide +3 running shoes from the also leaders in that field to gravitate 2011 Holiday Collection, a Nike N7 toward that conference. There obvi- string bag, a Nike N7 water bottle ously [are] a lot of conferences going and a Nike N7 notepad and pen. on, health wise, that are a lot more Participants also enjoyed a con- Photo by Sunnie Clahchischiligi/Osage News academic or professional that have cert from Ojibwe country music Ryan Red Corn, Osage artist, stands next to one of the posters he created for the Nike to do with diabetes, it’s just going to singer Crystal Shawanda, morning N7 Sports Summit in Beaverton, Ore., at the Nike World Campus held Oct. 28-30. Red and evening runs with Nike N7 Am- Corn attended the three-day event as did Osage physician Moira Red Corn and Nike N7 See nike n7 SPortS Summit bassador Alvina Begay and a Slam board member Wilson Pipestem. —Continued on Page 24 16 December 2011 Osage News • osagenews.org Pipestem a proven asset to Nike N7 movement By Sunnie Clahchischiligi others to be the movers and shakers Osage News of the Nike N7 movement, a move- ment that strives to fight the battle Two years ago Wilson Pipestem against diabetes and obesity in In- stood in the middle of Notah Begay dian Country by selling the Native III’s living room and shook hands American Nike line, “Nike N7,” and with Sam McCracken, the visionary turning the profits from sales into of the Nike N7 Fund. grants for health and wellness pro- Pipestem was looking to help the grams throughout the United States Native youth, McCracken was look- and Canada. ing for an innovator for the rapidly The three recently reconnected growing Nike N7 movement, and at the first ever Nike N7 Summit Begay was there to bring them to- held in Beaverton, Ore. Oct. 28-30. gether. The Summit was a three-day event “I was visiting Notah at his house jammed with panels and discussions and his Nike guy (McCracken) was on how Native communities can there . . . so Sam, he (Notah) and I bring health and wellness programs hit it off immediately,” Pipestem home through the Nike N7 Fund. said. “All of us had a great passion Pipestem was a panelist in a number for sports and particularly Indians in of panels. sport.” With that handshake in Begay’s Photo by Sunnie Clahchischiligi/Osage News That passion has led the three and home in 2009, Pipestem became a Wilson Pipestem (Center), Osage, speaks in a panel during the first ever Nike N7 Sports member of the Nike N7 board, a Summit held in Beaverton, Ore., Oct. 28-30. Pipestem is a Nike N7 board member and a board of 11 that includes profes- member and chair of the Notah Begay III Foundation. He is also the co-founder of Ietan sional Native American athletes, a Consulting firm based in Washington, D.C. country singer and the president of the National Indian Gaming Asso- Fund and movement actually began The two kept in touch over the ciation. years ago, before Nike N7 was creat- years and continued in their own Pipestem, Osage and Otoe-Mis- ed and before Pipestem became the paths. Begay, who is of San Felipe souria, a Washington D.C. based renowned person he is today. Pueblo, Isleta Pueblo and Navajo de- lawyer, ran track for Oklahoma scent, made noise in the PGA world State University and has always The Stanford Connection as he became the only full-blooded held a place for Native Americans in Native American on the PGA Tour After graduating from Oklahoma sports. and Pipestem, who co-founded Ietan State University Pipestem fulfilled Pipestem said when the opportu- Consulting, a successful law firm in his life-long dream to attend Stan- nity came he jumped on it. Washington, D.C. ford Law School. His father and his “Indians in sports was always Pipestem said he was surprised desire to help his Osage and Otoe something that fascinated me, the but thrilled when in 2009 Begay people and Natives everywhere Hominy Indian football team – the called and asked him to be on the geared him to study law. professional football team that used Notah Begay III Foundation board When Pipestem started law school to be on the Osage reservation – and the chair. at Standford University, Begay was hearing stories about different Osag- “Notah is a really smart guy with a sophomore undergrad. Once they es and Otoes who were athletes, that smart ideas, I thought, ‘that sounds met they connected immediately. was always fascinating to me,” Pipe- like a lot of fun, that has been a great stem confessed. “So being able to be “We had an Indian basketball experience,’” Pipestem said. “We’re a part of that and having a very tiny team we played on, we used to go the only organization now that seeks part in the tradition of Indians in shoot pool all the time, we just got to to have measurable results and sus- running . . . it’s just something I’ve be very good friends,” Pipestem said. tainable programs and very proud of always been drawn to because it’s “We used to talk about sports, what the work that we’re doing.” Photo by Sunnie Clahchischiligi/Osage News part of who I am, it’s what I love to sports meant to us and our communi- As the chairman and board mem- do.” ties and how we could make change Wilson Pipestem (left), Osage, makes his ber of the NB3 Foundation, Pipestem In typical Wilson fashion, Pipe- through sports and we always talked way to shake hands with Mark Parker, is also behind the scenes of the No- Nike CEO, during the opening ceremony stem was at the right place at the about all these guys who were great of the Nike N7 Sports Summit held in Bea- right time and knew the right people. athletes that just never quite panned See PiPeStem: a Proven aSSet verton, Ore., on Oct. 28-30. His relationship with the Nike N7 out to be college, or beyond, athletes.” —Continued on Page 22 Osage News • osagenews.org December 2011 17

Photo by Sunnie Clahchischiligi/Osage News (L-R) Michelle Gray, Beaushee Wildcat, Mary Wildcat and Louis Gray make the three- mile walk to Mullendore Cross Bell Ranch from the campsite of the 2011 third-annual Osage Cultural Walk held on the northeast corner of the state held Oct. 21-22. The an- nual walk organized two years ago to commemorate the walk the Osage people made from Kansas when they were relocated. Third Annual Cultural Walk has record turnout By Sunnie Clahchischiligi “Just to be able to walk in the foot- Osage News steps that my ancestors walked in, it was really kind of an emotional walk Through the wild ranch fields in for me,” Jones said. northeast Oklahoma Jacque Jones Jones was one of about 70 Osages shouldered her six-month-old daugh- who took part in the third-annual ter in a baby backpack carrier and commemorative Osage Cultural walked about three miles. Walk on Oct. 21-22, from the fur- As she walked she wondered why thest northeast corner of the state to the journey soothed the youngest of Mullendore Cross Bell Ranch. The annual walk is a short reen- actment of the walk the Osage peo- ple made from Kansas to what is More Cultural Walk now Osage County. For the last three years, participants have camped at Photos on Page 18; the site and made the three-mile Story continues walk to the ranch. This year was the same. on Page 19 Wah-Zha-Zhi Cultural Center di- rector Vann Bighorse said the walk is simply a way for Osages to get her five daughters to sleep. She also more in touch with their history. thought about the ground she walked “The idea of staying there and on and how it once embellished the See tHird annual Cultural Walk footprints of her Osage ancestors. —Continued on Page 19 18 December 2011 Osage News • osagenews.org

Photo by Sunnie Clahchischiligi/Osage News Jacque Jones and her daughters help prepare dinner during the 3rd Annual Osage Cultural Walk held Oct. 21-22. Osage News • osagenews.org December 2011 19

Third Annual Cultural Walk ‘Walking in the footsteps our ancestors walked in…’

Photo by Sunnie Clahchischiligi/Osage News A group of participants make their way during the 3rd Annual Osage Cultural Walk held Oct 21-22. Third Annual Cultural Walk –Continued from Page 17 camping was to [give] people kind of tant to life when you’re out here,” a sense of . . . how our people lived, she said. “It kind of makes my family outside, eating their meals from a all have to work together to put up campfire and trying to get a picture our tents…we get to actually get to of the way they lived,” Bighorse said. know each other [the participants], “The trials and tribulations they (an- get to learn about each other, get to cestors) dealt with on a day-to-day talk to each other.” basis, that was kind of to give people On Saturday Bighorse gathered an opportunity to be Osage.” the participants in front of the 1871 On Saturday morning before the marker, which marked the year walk began, participants gathered at when Osages moved into current the cultural center for information Osage County, and told the story of about the walk. A flat bed and vans the journey the people made. were loaded with camping gear and Bighorse said before moving to the participants were taken to the camp- northeastern part of the state the site. Osages were moved four previous At the campsite children played times between 1808 and 1825. Even- and helped their parents put up tually, in 1861, the idea to move the tents, while cultural center staff and Osages to Oklahoma had been sug- gested. volunteers prepared dinner for the Bighorse said Wa-Ti-An-Kah, a camp. war chief, was set on moving the peo- The evening was filled with hand ple to the area because he thought it games and Indian dice to pass the was much like the land they lived on. time. And later, stories were told And right before the last hereditary over a campfire where marshmal- chief died in 1869, Pah-ne-no-pah- lows were roasted. she, or who was often referred to as Jones, who was accompanied by Governor Joe, helped finalize the ne- her husband Shannon Jones, five gotiations. daughters and nephew, said she and Bighorse said the Osage people her family have taken part in the were devastated when they learned walk for the last two years. they’d be leaving their land. Photo by Sunnie Clahchischiligi/Osage News “I like the fact that there’s no radio A boy tosses game pieces in the air with a bowl as he learns how to play Indian dice and cell phones and the electronic See tHird annual Cultural Walk during the 3rd Annual Osage Cultural Walk. devices that now days is not impor- —Continued on Page 21 20 December 2011 Osage News • osagenews.org

Nike N7 Sports Summit –Continued from Page 15 take a while for those partnerships She said she understands how to emerge, you’ll probably see that sport can change lives and how an starting next year and on into the organization like N7 can help to do future.” that. Nike N7 started more than 10 “I’ve had a long-term relationship years ago when Sam McCracken, in sports just in general, as a doctor, Assiniboine/Sioux and general man- that’s just what I do on a day-to-day ager of Nike N7, who worked his way basis, I work with kids who are real- up as a warehouse worker in one of ly troubled, suicidal, very sick. To me Nike’s distribution centers, became it’s important for me to allow them the manager of Nike’s Native Ameri- to create a future because that’s can Business. not what they’re seeing right now,” In his position McCracken for- Moira Red Corn said. “That’s what I mulated a business plan that was try to do, and have them feel heard, geared toward Nike building rela- have them be empowered even if it’s tionships with 250 Native American tribes/nations that receive grants for just in the smallest way, that’s what diabetes education. I do for a living.” Now the fast growing organization With the help of organizations like has the best Native American ath- the Nike N7 Fund, in the near future Photo by Sunnie Clahchischiligi/Osage News letes who serve as ambassadors for all Native and Aboriginal communi- Crystal Shawanda, Ojibwe, country music singer from Canada sings in an exclusive the organization. ties can have the tools to better em- concert for the Nike N7 Sports Summit attendees. Shawanda is also a Nike N7 board The nine ambassadors are; power Native youth. member. Waneek Horn-Miller (Mohawk) wa- ter polo; Kenny Dobbs (Choctaw), best Basketball Slam Dunk artist in the world; Craig Robinson, Or- egon State Men’s basketball coach and brother to First Lady Michelle Obama; Tahnee Robinson (Northern Cheyenne/Eastern Shoshone/Paw- nee/Sioux), professional women’s basketball player; Jacoby Ellsbury (Navajo), professional baseball play- er for the Boston Red Sox; Sam Brad- ford (Cherokee), professional football player for the St. Louis Rams; Alvina Begay (Navajo), professional long- distance runner; Caroline Calve (Ab- original), Olympian snow boarder; Levi Horn (Northern Cheyenne), professional football player for the Chicago Bears. In 2009, N7 expanded their opera- tions by incorporating an 11-member board that includes Osage lawyer Wilson Pipestem. Moira Red Corn played college rugby at the University of Oklaho- ma, played on the Women’s National Photo by Sunnie Clahchischiligi/Osage News Rugby team and was inducted into Attendees of the first-ever Nike N7 Sports Summit look onto the stage during the opening ceremonies during the Oct. 28-30 sum- the Oklahoma Rugby Hall of Fame mit held in Beaverton, Ore., at the Nike World Campus. For three days health officials and sports enthusiasts gathered to attend this year. panels on how to better their communities through sport. Osage News • osagenews.org December 2011 21

Third Annual Cultural Walk –Continued from Page 19 “They really weren’t familiar with that area…they really didn’t want to leave mainly because of having to leave their loved ones buried there,” he said. “It was a tough time.” Bighorse said most of the informa- tion about the walk came from sto- ries told by elders, research, books, maps, and just about anything else that had to do with Osage history. The original walk was said to have lasted just over a year, but the walk from the campsite to the ranch took about an hour and 15 minutes to finish. Jones said as she cradled her six- month-old daughter (who she was pregnant with during last year’s walk) on the walk she thought about the hardships her ancestors faced. “Some were sick, pregnant, had crying babies…the main thing was for my family to share that piece of information with me,” she said. “They did walk that long of a trip, my ancestors did walk those steps, that’s why we’re here.” As Bighorse made the walk ahead of his family he said he felt a special tie to the Osage history and what took place over 100 years ago. He said every year he’s made the Photo by Sunnie Clahchischiligi/Osage News walk he feels like he’s taking the Jacque Jones and her six-month-old daughter on the final stretch of 3rd Annual Osage Cultural Walk. walk with his ancestors. “Ever since I’ve been there I still walk two years ago, and he hopes it have that feeling, that sense of con- continues to grow. nection, I feel a presence of our peo- He said since the walk, partici- ple being there,” he said. “There’s pants have emailed and called in a spiritual feeling there, I just feel a presence of our ancestors. I re- talking about how much they en- ally kind of have that feeling about joyed the experience. that area there, it makes me feel “I really feel like it was a success- that presence of our people coming ful walk, event, this cultural walk through there…” has kind of gained momentum, every Something different to the walk year it’s gained a few more that want was the visit from Osage Nation to come,” he said. Principal Chief John Red Eagle. Red Eagle met the participants at the Jones said she and her family ranch after the walk was finished learned more every year they’ve at- before a catered afternoon meal and tended. She said it’s a good place for spoke of the importance of the walk. children to interact and learn about It was a first for the walk. their lineage. This year about 103 Osages signed “My kids know where they come up for the walk but only about 70 showed up. from. That’s what’s important to my Bighorse said the number of par- family,” she said. “I think it’s a won- Photo by Sunnie Clahchischiligi/Osage News ticipants has increased since the first derful program that’s offered…” A girl holds up a caterpillar found during the 3rd Annual Osage Cultural Walk. 22 December 2011 Osage News • osagenews.org

Pipestem: A Proven Asset –Continued from Page 16 tah Begay III Foundation Challenge, Native people, more importantly his birth of my idea, but it’s birth from “It’ s a lot of fun, it’s kind of a thrill where some of the best female and own Osage community.” the passion of a group of people and to be around some of these athletes, male golfers including Notah’s close Wilson being the catalyst of those they’re just unbelievable, interesting friend Tiger Woods, come together, Joining the movement people to make this what it is today, thing is they like Notah a lot. Being the energy here . . . you can’t mea- around athletes like that is kind of play a few holes of golf to help raise Jumping onboard the Nike N7 sure it,” McCracken said. fun,” he added. hundreds of thousands of dollars for movement was practically a dream The athletes like Begay also enjoy the NB3 Foundation. come true for Pipestem. being around Pipestem. The Foundation itself is a nonprof- As a past college athlete and avid A part of something big Begay said Pipestem has a sense it organization founded by Begay, runner, Pipestem has always been Pipestem is a man who likes to of energy about him that makes him that uses sports, health and leader- on the look out for talented Native lend a helping hand. easy to get along with. ship programs to help fight type 2 American athletes. He helped his Osage people win “He is well respected, he’s got a diabetes among Native American “I grew up going to Indian sports a $380 million settlement in Octo- great sense of humor, he loves to youth, according to the NB3 Founda- stuff and I always kept track of Jim ber, he’s helped other tribes fight laugh, to joke, attends and watches tion Web site. Thorpe, he was my hero and I always for justice and helps Native people a lot of sporting events,” Begay said. Pipestem is often seen shaking heard about Billy Mills . . . if there everywhere as a board member for “He’s a very fun guy to be around.” hands and visiting with Woods and were professional Indian athletes both the NB3 Foundation and the Now that N7 has been a big part others at the challenge held in New I always followed them and kept Nike N7 Fund, but even someone as of Pipestem’s life he said he couldn’t York State every spring. track, and that’s when I first heard well known as Pipestem has to pinch imagine his life without it. He said Pipestem believes in the work that of Notah, he was this kid who won himself every now and again. although his work with the NB3 Begay does with his foundation but everything in New Mexico and was He said sometimes he can’t believe Foundation and the Nike N7 Fund can those like Begay and McCracken be- the highest ranked junior golfer in he’s worked with such people like be time consuming, it’s all worth it. lieve in what the 42-year-old Pipe- America when he was 16-years-old,” Woods and Begay. “This makes my life better. I just stem can do for their organizations. Pipestem said. “My motivation for “I first met Tiger Woods at the Na- love being a part of it, I love the idea Begay said when McCracken de- doing it, was one, I could hang out tive center on the Stanford campus that we’re playing some role, in some cided to put a board together for the with my friend Sam McCracken when he was a scrawny freshman kid’s life that wouldn’t otherwise foundation in 2009 he asked Begay but also to be on the ground floor of following Notah around, he was al- play, have that opportunity to play if there was anyone he knew. Begay something that’s potentially a really ready a celebrity when he started soccer, maybe live a more healthy said he was quick to suggest Pipe- big deal.” school there, he was quiet I remem- life, that stuff is what I love. I love stem and arranged a meeting at his For about two years now Pipe- ber, he shook my hand, I remember doing work with tribal government home in 2009. stem has been front and center when he was a skinny guy,” Pipestem said. and I love doing Indian rights work “Wilson, it seemed to be just a it comes to deciding who gets the “Then he became the Tiger Woods but this is different then that and I great fit to the both of us (Begay and grants from the Nike N7 products star, he’s still one of the sought after just love being involved with Indians McCracken),” Begay said. “We devel- sold. athletes in the world and because of in sports,” he said. “I wouldn’t have oped that friendship in the early 90s, McCracken said he knew Pipe- his close, close friendship with Notah it any other way, I’d miss it so badly he went on to start his practice in stem would be a valuable asset to the I’ve had the good fortune of being at if I couldn’t be a part of it . . . it has D.C. and I went on to the PGA Tour. board because of his strategic think- the charity tour we put on and hav- ing him shake my hand and say, ‘hey kind of been a blessing to be a part We came to a point in our lives about ing and energy. Wilson, how you doing?’ of it.” five years ago where we both felt like “I believe Wilson’s a change mak- it was time to give back to something er,” McCracken said. “I think he that meant a lot to us in our Native has the ability to have great vision, communities.” I think he has the ability to affect Begay said for about 12 years he change through his actions, I think December 28th is the deadline and McCracken have discussed ideas he stands for and behind what he be- like the ones that led to the Nike N7 lieves . . . I thought Wilson had every for all submissions for the movement. He said in the middle of it attribute that we were looking for in January 2012 issue of the all Pipestem’s name always seemed an individual who could advance the to come up. initiative to create positive change.” “That’s when I asked him, I think And so far, Pipestem has done just he’s a tremendous asset to the N7 that. movement. He’s very intelligent, McCracken said Pipestem was articulate, a successful person, very part of the initial “brain child” be- grounded,” Begay said. “What I find hind the Summit. He said Pipestem most valuable about Wilson has grasped the concept of the summit Mark it on your calendars! nothing to do with law . . . what I instantly. feel is most valuable is his love for “What you see here is not just a Osage News • osagenews.org December 2011 23

Echo-Hawk Speaks –Continued from Page 11 advantage to having the program is Echo-Hawk said the project also ners to come and help supervise the “According to the Treasurer, this to keep students interested in pursu- features a field studies program to law students working on the sover- week we’re broke, but next week, it ing Indian law opportunities because provide externships in Indian Coun- eignty issues, Echo-Hawk said. “This might be a different story,” quipped some law students end up working in try so law students “would leave the would be a proactive part of the pro- Congressman William “Kugee” Su- cities with no Indian law opportuni- school and work for Indian nations gram,” he said noting that TU is a pernaw. The Congress is scheduled ties to pay back the student loans. under the supervision of attorneys private school, so the law school is to begin a 12th Special Session on To create the project, Echo-Hawk for law credit, it wouldn’t cost the not beholden to the state of Oklaho- Dec. 5 to finish much of the items left said the school is seeking $10 million tribes anything, but it would give ma in case of future litigation, which from the 11th Special Session. to $11 million in donations to cre- the students excellent on-the-ground could create a conflict of interest if Congressman Geoffrey Standing ate a permanent endowment. Once legal experience…and not just to TU was a state-funded school and Bear praised the presentation and the donated money for the program handle divorces or (last) wills, but the state was involved in a case on Rice and Echo-Hawk for their work is put in the bank, Echo-Hawk said practicing federal Indian law.” the opposing side. in the Indian law field. “These two the plan is to spend only the inter- The program would also offer a Echo-Hawk said he would be visit- gentlemen are giants in Indian law, est generated to fund the project and “sovereignty law clinic” which in- ing with the remainder of the state’s nationally and internationally . . . scholarships. volves hiring Indian law practitio- tribes to present the project as he did Our people have to remember that to the ON Congress to raise aware- this money from gaming, license ness and to ask for donations for the tags, smoke shops . . . that comes Legal Trends Worcester Sovereignty Project. from these victories that have been –Continued from Page 11 The Congress took no action or won by Indian attorneys in the last motions regarding the Echo-Hawk quarter-century . . . It looks like now our Indian nations do…it’s led some tion land, also known as the bound- presentation after it concluded. The we need to think about the future.” of our worried legal scholars and aries of Osage County. Since that presentation came at an inopportune Congressional Speaker Jerri Jean tribal leaders to ask: ‘Is federal Indi- time the case has been to the 10th time when the Congress voted to end Branstetter said the project presen- an law dead?’ . . . That’s a challenge Circuit Court of Federal Appeals the Special Session after four days tation may be a future topic for the that I think this next generation of twice, in which the federal court de- during the session as the Legisla- Congressional Committee on Educa- our attorneys are going to have to nied to hear a rehearing of the Na- tive Branch and Treasurer William tion. address.” tion’s case. The Nation appealed to Kemble were at odds over the Na- TU is the largest major university Echo-Hawk (Pawnee), an adjunct the Supreme Court in October 2010 tion’s appropriation law for approv- with a law school that is closest in faculty member at TU and an at- and the justices declined to hear the ing tribal funding requests. proximity to the Osage Nation. torney at Crowe Dunlevy in Tulsa, case on June 27. notes most of the Indian law-related William Rice (UKB Cherokee), cases appealed to the U.S. Supreme also a TU law professor, previously Court with the two most recent Chief worked in private practice and rep- Justices presiding were decided resented the Sac and Fox Nation at against the Native American side. the U.S. Supreme Court in 1993 and Chief Justice John Roberts has pre- won the case (against the Oklahoma sided since being nominated by Pres- Tax Commission) in 1993. He said ident George W. Bush in 2005 after that was one of the most recent cases his predecessor, William Rehnquist, in which Native Americans have won nominated by President Ronald Rea- at the High Court level. “We have to gan in 1986, died in office. have a new generation of litigators, Echo-Hawk describes the case we have to have a new generation of loss record as “a very troubling legal Indian lawyers.” trend toward trimming back on our Echo-Hawk said he has also no- Native rights.” He also cited, as an ticed a change in the challenges trib- example, the recent High Court deci- al nations are accepting in taking on sion to not hear the Osage Nation’s more efforts to sustain their govern- appeal in its reservation status case ments and economies. against the Oklahoma Tax Commis- “Many tribes, and I think Osage is sion. one of them, find themselves in un- The federal case against the state chartered territory. We’ve got brand Tax Commission started 11-years- new issues we’ve never confronted ago when the Nation sued the OTC before, running these big casinos, la- for taxing Osage citizens living on bor relations and floating bonds and land that the Nation claimed was all kinds of things that go far beyond still, and had always been, reserva- the field.” 24 December 2011 Osage News • osagenews.org Osage News • osagenews.org December 2011 25

Osage Congressional election six months away Osage News dorse candidates. The Osage News Election season has begun. staff will only attend fundraisers With the announcement of Oliv- and dinners in their official capac- ia “Libbi” Gray and Jim Ryan for next year’s congressional election ity – to report the news. in June, the Osage News is an- The Osage News will publish nouncing its rules for candidates dates and times of candidate fun- wishing to advertise or publish draisers and dinners on the Osage campaign statements in the news- News site, Facebook page and paper. Twitter account. It is the candi- Each candidate is granted 500 date’s responsibility to notify the words and a photo when making Osage News of important upcom- their initial candidacy announce- ing dates. ment. All subsequent announce- ments will be kept to 125 words. Candidates are welcome to ad- Candidates will be responsible for vertise with the Osage News, both all editing and delivery of their in the newspaper and online.The announcements. The Osage News Osage News will be publishing does not edit candidate announce- candidate campaign financial in- ments or submissions of any kind. formation, including their adver- Candidates will be asked to tising accounts with the Osage participate in the Osage News News. If a candidate fails to pay Roundup (beginning in May of their advertising bill with the next year), in which the Osage Osage News it will be reported. If a News will email a question to can- didates, give them a day to answer candidate falls more than 30 days and publish their answers the next behind in payment they will not day in the order they are received. be allowed to advertise with the Answers will be published on the Osage News until the bill is paid Osage News Web site, Facebook and it will be reported. page and Twitter account. Candi- The Osage News will host a can- dates will be given 300 words for didate debate. Date and time to be the Roundup. announced. The Osage News will be posting Editorial Board members Rob- political news blogs on its Web site beginning in January 2012 to in- ert Warrior (Chairman), Teresa form Osages of daily happenings Trumbly Lamsam and Denny in the 2012 race. McAuliffe voted unanimously to Candidates or incumbents will approve the Osage News election not be allowed to publish blogs or policies during a Nov. 29 telecon- columns on the Osage News site or ference. newspaper. The Osage News will Have a question for the candi- link to candidate’s sites when a dates? Email them to the Osage candidate publishes a blog or an- News at osagenews@osagetribe. nouncement. If a candidate wishes org or post it to our Facebook ac- to publish a column in the Osage News they will pay for the space count. The Osage News does not and it will be clearly labeled as an guarantee a question will be used advertisement. and the Osage News reserves the The Osage News does not en- right to edit questions submitted. 26 December 2011 Osage News • osagenews.org Olivia ‘Libbi’ Gray Jim Ryan announces announces candidacy his candidacy for for ON Congress Press Release Osage Congress Olivia “Libbi” Gray is announcing Press Release she will run for a seat on the Third Osage Nation Congress in the June With the greatest respect, I am 2012 election. announcing that I will run for Gray’s education and work ex- Osage Congress. I believe that our perience in the area of tribal gov- nation is one large extended fam- ernment will help her serve on the ily and by working together, Con- Osage Nation Congress. She holds gress can best serve our people. It an Associate’s degree in Business is this spirit of unity that will be Administration, a Bachelor’s degree the focus of my campaign and ser- in Management, and a Master’s de- vice to the Osage Nation. In our gree in Business Administration. She discussions on the “Osage for Fis- has worked for the Osage Nation in cal Responsibility” facebook site”, the area of economic development, we have firmly established that putting forth the first Secured Trans- there is a need for expanding ser- actions Act and Limited Liability vices for; Elder Care, Healthcare, Company Act for the First Osage Na- Education, Child Care and to cre- tion Congress to pass into law. Gray ate jobs in Osage County. My fo- also served the Pawnee Nation as Olivia “Libbi” Gray cus will be in these areas. their Tribal Development Coordina- Who am I? I am the luckiest Jim Ryan tor as well as Division Leader for the man in the world, I was born uary 31, 2006 and I stand ready Planning Division with three departments under her supervision. Osage in Pawhuska and into the to work full time for the Osage Currently Gray serves as a consultant for the Red Lake Ojibwa Nation in Revard family. Because I am an people. My goal is to be able to the areas of government reform, economic development and project manage- Eagle Scout and a Kidney donor, work with other Congress mem- ment through a grant provided from the Bush Foundation. you know that I am not selfish bers and the Chief to move leg- Gray’s professional area of expertise is in planning, grant writing, project and will always be prepared. My islation forward that will benefit management, and organizational management, and has a working knowledge Great Grandfather, Franklin Re- the people. I would like to instill of the majority of our Osage Nation programs and enterprises. vard served on the Tribal Coun- in Congress a sense of family and Gray is a member of the Pawhuska District and the Deer Clan. cil for many years. He was a U.S. working together for the common She is the daughter of the late Candi Gann of Tulsa, the granddaughter of Deputy Marshall and interpreter the late Chief Paul and Ola Mae Revard Pitts of Pawhuska, the late Bob and for the tribe. Other prominent good. Mary Rose BigHorse Gann of Bartlesville, and is a direct descendant of the members of our family include; During the six years that I have only female chief of the Osage (Beaver Band) Mother Chouteau. She is de- General George Tinker, noted au- been retired, I have become active scended from many prominent Osage families including the Revard, Lessert, thor and poet, Carter Revard and in Osage politics and have worked Chouteau, BigHorse, Copperfield, and Bangs families. Chief Sylvester Tinker. both for and against issues that She has four daughters. Mary Ramirez who is attending Fort Lewis College I received my Bachelors degree I thought were important to the in Colorado and majoring in Political Science, Sarah Ramirez who is a Senior in education from the University people. In response to a call from at Skiatook High School, Olivia Ramirez who is a freshman at Skiatook High of the Incarnate Word and my the Osage News for ideas about School, and Annette “Nettie” Gray who is three years old. She is the wife of how to distribute the $500.00 former Principal Chief James Roan Gray. Masters degree from U.T.S.A.. During my thirty year career as Health Benefit that was proposed Gray can be reached at the following: by Congresswoman Edwards,I • Twitter Account: twitter @LibbiGray a teacher, I taught at every level from pre-K through college. In submitted a plan on June 4, 2008 • Tumblr Account: http://www.tumblr.com/tumblelog/libbigray to Congress to utilize a debit card • Form Spring Me Account: http://www.formspring.me/LibbiGray addition to teaching, I ran three • LinkedIn Account: LinkedIn@Libbi Gray successful business ventures in- See ryan announCeS • E-Mail: [email protected] cluding; real estate, publishing —Continued on Page 29 • Website: libbiforcongress.com and entertainment. I retired Jan- [The Osage News does not edit Candidate announcements.] Osage News • osagenews.org December 2011 27 Osage Sports Woodland advances to Class A state finals By Sunnie Clahchischiligi Osage News After what seemed like a breezy regular and post season, Woodland is back in the state championship game to defend their Class A title. Woodland defeated Thomas-Fay- Custer, 32-7, on Dec. 2, in a semi- final matchup in Enid. The freezing temperature, sleet- turf field and weak Thomas defense wasn’t enough to hold the Cougars back, 13-0, for a chance to defend their title. Woodland coach Joe Sindelar said his team executed well despite the conditions. “They did well, 32-7 with this team in these conditions is a big win, that’s a big win, if you dried this field off, we were able to do a lot more stuff but I just couldn’t be more proud of what they did,” he said. “It was fun, the kids did a great job, they just did everything we asked of them.” It was fun for the Cougars but not so much for the Thomas Terriers. After adjusting to Thomas, Wood- Photo by Chalene Toehay/Osage News land was quick to jump on the score- board scoring their first touchdown Woodland senior Willie Zackery breaks free from a Thomas defender as he runs the ball to the end zone for a touchdown during the semi-final game with Thomas on Dec. 2 in Enid. The Cougars came out on top with a 32-7 win over the Terriers, and will meet Wayne with 4:29 left in the first quarter and to defend their Class A championship title at the Boone Pickens Stadium in Stillwater on Dec. 10 at 1 p.m. then two more in the second, leading Thomas 20-0 at the half. couldn’t move the ball at all, all night Sindelar said he’s confident in all I’m not worried about them scoring Before the game Sindelar said Thomas was known to run a spread long, they just did a great job de- of his players on offense and defense on us defensively . . . so got a little offense and run the ball, but their fensively, I’m pretty proud of them, and that showed Friday against bit more chancy tonight than I nor- they’re happy.” Thomas. He said the confidence will strategy couldn’t hold up against mally would under these conditions, Offensively the Cougars remained carry on into the finals where they Woodland’s defense. but that’s just straight confidence in “You can see every time they ran strong with Zalin Edwards’ two meet Wayne on Dec. 10 at 1 p.m. these guys,” he said. “I think most that zone our kids were just there, points, Patrick Bartlett’s six, Tracey at Oklahoma State’s Boone Pickens they were patient on the line of Wilson’s 12 and last weeks’ Tulsa Stadium in Stillwater. people in the state thought that it scrimmage, there was no cutback World Athlete of the Week Willie “I’m so confident in these guys that would be a Woodland-Wayne final, lane,” Sindelar said. “They (Thomas) Zackery added 12 of his own. I’ll throw the ball in the rain because so it will be good.” 28 December 2011 Osage News • osagenews.org Football Roundup Hominy and Pawhuska seasons end in playoffs By Sunnie Clahchischiligi The Bucks lose eight seniors in- ond round where they hosted Morris, going offensively, they were just bet- Osage News cluding Osage player Talon Miles an opponent they’ve met plenty of ter than us on that day.” Satepauhoodle. Harmon said at the times in the past. Pawhuska is the only losing oppo- The Bucks finished the regular beginning of the season the team loss Scott said it was a tough first half season 5-5 but couldn’t get past the nent to Lindsey that was able to hold four two-way starters and had to fill but once again the Huskies pulled second round of the Class A playoff them to a low-scoring game. gaps with some younger players. through in the end. game with Dibble. The Bucks fell 22- The Huskies ended their season He added that having young play- “We keep it close and turn the sec- 52 on Nov. 18 in a road game. 7-6 overall. ond half. We got a few turnovers here Hominy defeated Fairland 21-20 ers makes the team stronger for the Scott said he never doubted his and there but our kids played hard in on the road on Nov. 11 for the first next season. team’s ability even if others did. He the end,” he said. “The kids did exact- playoff win. “We’re excited about it, we’re go- said his team played well and have a ly what we asked them to do.” The Bucks came from behind and ing to have somebody to replace two lot to look forward next season. The Huskies finished with 17-0 were able to defeat Fairland with a senior tailbacks…up front we’re go- “I think we surprised a lot of peo- win and advanced to the third around minute and 10 seconds left. ing to be pretty good,” Harmon said. ple at the end of the season,” he said. where they hosted Lindsey. Hominy coach Scott Harmon said “I was pleased with how the kids Pawhuska fell to Lindsey 6-20 and “Our kids played well. We knew we it was a thrill for the team that played. We have some positive things Scott said his team knew it wasn’t could make it in the playoffs; it was wasn’t expected to go very far. to look forward to in the future.” going to be easy. just a matter of where we would fall. “I was a big win for us, we did a “When you get to the third round Overall I knew that we could be in good job throwing the ball, running Pawhuska of the tournament the competition the playoffs.” the ball,” he said. “They did pretty The Pawhuska Huskies didn’t ex- gets a lot more difficult, we just ran The Huskies lose 10 seniors in- well, they kind of had big eyes (in the actly have the regular season they into someone that was better than cluding three known Osages; Gene beginning) once they had a playoff wanted but made the most of their us,” he said. “They were better than Big Soldier, Jr., Norris Bighorse and win under their belt, they felt better post season. us up front, we couldn’t get anything Jeremy Iron. about it.” The Huskies finished the regular The Bucks moved onto the second season 5-5 and met Adair in the first round and met Dibble, who didn’t round. waste any time getting numbers on In a nail-biting game that went the board. into overtime, Pawhuska pulled He said his team held on for two through with a 19-13 victory. quarters and entered the half down Pawhuska coach Eddy Scott said 8-22, and lost momentum in the the win may have been a surprise to third quarter. many but he knew his team was just “That’s when the wheels fell off as capable of a post-season win. the wagons a little bit,” Harmon “They didn’t expect us to come said. “Things kind of got away from up and beat them,” he said. “They us late.” fought hard, we happened to come The game ran away from them and out in the end of it…(it was a) very Hominy took a 52-22 loss that ended tight, close game.” their season with a record of 6-6. The Huskies advanced to the sec-

Grants Awarded –Continued from Page 14 many local organizations, according to the release. Recent grants include a $13,400 to Hominy Ranchers Rural Fire to help purchase radios and equip- ment; $18,500 to the Barnsdall Community Ambassador Association for SUV’s and radios; and $12,000 to the Pawhuska Chamber of Commerce to purchase new equipment. The Office of Strategic Planning & Grants Management is located in Pawhuska and is responsible for Osage Nation’s grants process on behalf of the Executive Office. Their mission is to effectively support and facilitate to action Osage Nation’s overall strategy by applying sound project and grants management principles and best practices, according to the release. Osage News • osagenews.org December 2011 29 Births and Celebrations

are very proud of this great accom- with lots of nieces, nephews and plishment. cousins. Jade is continuing her education and will be working towards her Masters degree in Family and Child Happy Birthday! Studies. Her whole family loves her Clarise Rose Yates turned four- very much and is so proud of her. We years-old on April 17. She celebrated would like to thank the Osage Tribe by having an “Under the Sea – Little for their enormous support in Jade’s Mermaid” birthday party, with many college experience. Supporting higher family and friends in attendance. education is one of the greatest gifts She loves taking ballet and tap, Kin- the Osage Tribe can give their people. dermusik, tumbling and many other classes. Clarise is the daughter of Paul and Congratulations! Lisa Yates, of Joplin, Mo. Her ma- Colby Woodell was awarded Scout- ternal grandparents are Charlene ing’s highest honor of Eagle Scout on Daniels of Fairfax and the late Joe Aug. 15 of this year. His Court of Daniels. Her paternal grandparents Honor was held on Nov. 20 in Hid- Jada Marie Fowler are the late Paul Yates and the late den Springs, Idaho. His parents, Eva Mae Coshehe Yates of Nelagoney. Todd and Sue, brother Brendan (also Congratulations! an Eagle Scout) grandparents Barry Jade Marie Fowler is graduating and Nancy Woodell and Dale and Ryan Announces Magna Cum Laude from the Uni- Sylvia Dixon, great-aunts and un- versity of Central Oklahoma with cles from England and many other Candidacy a Bachelor of Science in Education friends will be in attendance. Clarise Rose Yates –Continued from Page 26 degree with a major in Family-Life As well as scouting, Colby is active as the vehicle to distribute Education/Child Development.She is in lacrosse, marching band and cu- complishments and wish him every the funds. I was very pleased a descendent of original allottee Ol- linary arts at Meridian High School happiness and success in his future when they included this part lohawalla and Opatunka (Big Elk). and would like to attend college at endeavors! of my plan into ONCA 08-46. Jade is the granddaughter of Le- University of Southern California Recently enacted ONCA 11-78 ona Haney Goodman and the late – Long Beach in 2014. He wants to began as a post that I made to Bell C. Haney. Her parents, Eric and major in International Business. Congratulations! our “Osage for Fiscal Responsi- Karen Fowler, and brother, Justin, We are all very proud of Colby’s ac- Colt and Sara Herren welcomed bility” site proposing a one sen- Chaz Tyrel Herren on July 19. He tence law to separate Nation was born at St. Johns Hospital in and Mineral monies. Congress Tulsa at 3:05 a.m. and weighed 5 Woman Alice Goodfox replied pounds,13 ounces. that she would “file it” and Maternal grandparents are Andy after adding her touch, it was and Sylvia Goodell of Skiatook, ma- filed and enacted. The credit for both of these bills belongs ternal great-grandparents are the to these Congresswomen, they late Ralph and Agnes Goodell, and are the ones who were able to the late Bill Landis and Loretta bring Congress together and Landis. Paternal grandparents are get these bills through. Janey Reynolds of Skiatook, Chet If I am elected, I will always and Sylvia Herren of Pawhuska, pa- put the needs of the Osage ternal great-grandparents are Butch people first and will work tire- lessly to improve their lives. and Carol Reynolds of Hermitage, Please visit www.JIMRYANO- Mo., Jim and Claudine Pope of El SAGE.com Dorado Springs, Mo., the late Cheri [The Osage News does not Charloe, and the late Gene Herren. edit Candidate announce- Chaz was welcomed home by a ments.] Colby Woodell very proud big brother Cash, along 30 December 2011 Osage News • osagenews.org

Obituaries Announcement of Vacancy Sylvia Kathleen McClain Services were held on Nov. 5 at the on the Osage Tribal Hearn Hauth Tinker residence in Pawhuska. Funeral arrangements were Sylvia Kathleen McClain Hearn made by Johnson’s Funeral Home Hauth passed away on Nov. 1 in Tul- Education Committee in Pawhuska. She was buried in the sa at St John’s Hospital. The Bureau of Indian Education is announcing that a vacancy has private cemetery on the family ranch Sylvia was born November 8,1953, occurred on the Osage Tribal Education Committee. This vacancy is in Tulsa, to Sam and Mary Rose Mc- in Pawhuska. the Member of the Hominy Village Representative. The purpose of this Clain. She was a resident of Tul- notice is to solicit nominations from individual or Osage organizations sa until 1989, when she moved to August William Lohmann III who would nominate persons of the vacancy. Pawhuska. Mr. August William “A.W.” Lohm- DATES: Applications and nominations must be received on or before Her mother Mary Rose McClain ann, III, 76, of Clayton, Okla. passed December 30, 2011 preceded her in death in 2006, in ADDRESSES: You may send applications and nominations to: away June 11 at Sparks Regional Pawhuska. Sylvia’s father, Sam Mc- Osage Tribal Education Committee, c/o Oklahoma Area Education Of- Medical Center in Fort Smith, Ark. Clain now resides in Pawhuska. fice, 200 N.W. 4th Street, Suite 4049, Oklahoma City, OK 73102. He was born in Pawhuska, on Oct. 8, Sylvia was a member of the Osage FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Joy Martin, Educa- Nation. Her grandfather, Sylves- 1934, the son of the late August and tion Line Office at 405-605-6051. ter J. Tinker, was principal chief of Vivian (Cross) Lohmann. He attend- SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Pursuant to 25 CFR 122.5 the Osage Tribe from 1970 through ed school in Pawhuska and gradu- and the Overall Plan of Operation for the Osage Tribal Education 1982. ated from high school at Moorehill Committee, the Bureau is seeking nominations from individuals or Sylvia leaves two sons, Tate Hearn Catholic Prep School in Atchison, Osage organizations who would nominate persons for the vacancy. The and Nathan Hauth and granddaugh- Kan. He attended OSU, served in requirements of the Hominy Village Representative are: ters Mikala Rose Kirkpatrick and the army for three years in Germa- (a) Must be an adult person of Osage Indian blood who is an allot- LaNay Tamera Rowland. She is sur- ny, worked for Phillips Petroleum tee or descendant of an allottee; and vived by her younger sister Addie for three years, and ranched with his (b) Must be a legal residents and/or live within a 20-mile radius of McClain; two nephews Serdjan and brother Charles for thirty years. the Hominy Indian Village. Luka of Sugar Land, TX; an older He is survived by his brother The nominee or his/her representative organization should submit brother Frank McClain; a nephew a brief statement requesting that he/she be considered as a candidate Charles Lohmann of Buffalo Valley, John; and a niece Melissa of Tulsa. for the vacancy and the reason for desiring to serve on the committee. Okla.; nieces Maria Heaslet of Wichi- She will be greatly missed by close If nominated by an Osage organization, a written statement from the ta, Kan. and Lori Lohmann of Puyal- friends of the family, Joe LaSarge nominee stating his/her willingness to serve on the committee must be and Hattie Brown Wolf-Gilkey. Her lup, Wash. included with the Osage organization. constant comfort for more than 11 He was preceded in death by his Application and nominations must be received no later than Decem- years was her faithful Chihuahua parents. ber 30, 2011. Nominations shall be delivered by registered mail to the Lupe. Services were held on June 16 at address listed in the ADDRESS section. Sylvia had many friends who loved the St. Catherine’s of Sienna in Ta- her greatly and she will be missed lihina, Okla. with Father Joshua E. by all. Litwack officiating. ‘Through the Lens’ Photographic December 28th Exhibit at Townmaker Square is the deadline for all submissions for Townmaker Square recently debuted “Through the Lens,” a photographic exhibit of Pawhuska. The photographs, taken by participants of the 4th an- the January 2012 issue of the nual Bartlesville Photo Walk, held in conjunction with the Scott Kelby Inter- national Photo Walk, highlight the natural beauty and gorgeous architecture of downtown Pawhuska, the Tallgrass Prairie, and surrounding area. Walk leader and show organizer, Sherry Stinson, said, “It’s a great privi- lege for us to be shown in Pawhuska’s Townmaker Square. This is a wonder- ful gallery and it’s fitting for the show to come to Pawhuska so the citizenry can enjoy these amazing images. We are grateful to Devon Gaines and Cathy Mark it on your calendars! Worten for making this happen.” Townmaker Square, located at 519 Kihekah Avenue, is open Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Osage News • osagenews.org December 2011 31 Opinion Letters to the Editor Invest in Osage County We, as Osage business owners, at the business incubator in Pawhus- to consider starting a business of –John Free, think it is great that shareholders ka. For the first time, we will have your own and taking advantage of Owner of The Bronze Horse Foundry are considering starting a business local access to business planning ex- the resources available in the pro- –Paul Mays, with the money they will receive this pertise. The service is not free, but it cess. This is indeed a unique oppor- Owner of the Osage Trading Post December for three reasons: is worth it. Consultants break down tunity, one that can set a new course –Studebaker Red Corn, First, the prospect of more Osage the process of owning and operating for you, your family, and your com- Pawhuska Chamber of Commerce business owners is exciting for our a small business into manageable munity. community. Business owners are big steps. They work with you to develop –Julie O’keefe and Danette Daniels, Osage County Chambers of Commerce: shareholders in the direction of our a long-term plan, and give you access Owners of the Cedar Chest Pawhuska 918-287-1208 towns. They employ other Osages to research and the lessons others –Ryan Red Corn, Barnsdall 918-847-2202 and non-Osages, and reflect the cul- have learned. Owner of Buffalo Nickel Creative ture of our community. Most impor- We, as business owners, have seen –Stephen, Debra & Stephenie Easley, Shidler 918-793-4171 tantly, businesses provide the tax the potential for success in business Owner/operators of Whiting Bed & Hominy 918-885-4939 revenue for our schools and infra- in Osage county. We encourage you Bath and Easley’s Auction Service Fairfax 918-642-5266 structure. Second, starting a business in Osage county is a great invest- ment. Property is affordable, allow- Without Reservations ing for lower startup cost, and there are several areas of our economy where demand exceeds supply. The Pawhuska Chamber of Commerce has a GAP analysis that shows sup- ply and demand of several business categories for our area that is avail- able to anyone. Additionally there will be a tour of downtown proper- ties for anyone interested (meet at the Pawhuska Chamber at Dec 10th at 10 am for the tour). Last, in the coming year, the Tri County Technology Center will open

Letters to the Editor Submissions If you’d like to submit a let- ter to the editor, mail it to the Osage News, Attn.: Shan- non Shaw, 109 E. 6th Street, Pawhuska, OK 74056 or email [email protected]. Letters must be respectful and infor- mative to the reader, and may be edited for grammar, clarity and space. Cartoon © Santo Domingo Pueblo Cartoon Artist, Ricardo Caté