The Turtle Speaks Gyah’-Wish

Atak-iaA Wyandotte Nation Publication

Volume 22, Issue 4 www.wyandotte-nation.org November 2018

29th Annual Pow-Wow Rain does nothing to dampen competition Pages 10-11

Gyah’-wish Atak-ia is published quarterly for Tribal Citizens by the Wyandotte Nation at its Inside: headquarters in Wyandotte, Okla. • 'Gathering' brings Tribe together The Wyandotte Nation (918) 678-2297 • Clinic celebrates 20 years on the hill 64700 E Hwy 60 (800) 256-2539 Wyandotte, OK 74370 Fax (918) 678-2944 • Indigenous People's Day

(C) Copyright 2018. All information, photographs, and other materials are copyrighted, and may not be reproduced without prior written consent of the Wyandotte Nation. Page 2 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia November 2018

Board of Directors From the Chief Billy Friend Chief...... Billy Friend Second Chief...... Norman Hildebrand, Jr. Councilperson...... Ramona Reid Councilperson...... Vivian Fink Councilperson...... Juanita McQuistion Councilperson...... Eric Lofland State of the Nation “Two are better than one; NOTE: This is the 'State of the and that of our children-- depends Nation' address delivered at the because they have a good on what we do, how we do it-- and Content 2018 Annual Meeting. why we do it. reward for their labour.” We have had another great year. Annual Meeting & Election...... 4 We as Wyandotte people have -- Ecclesiastes 4:9 The state of the nation is still Clinic celebrates 20 years...... 5 always benefited from the foresight strong. This is because we all pull Annual Health Fair...... 5 of our ancestors, we have added tions. I feel grateful and honored together, and we make it happen The Gathering...... 6-8 to and built upon that foresight to by that progress. together. We are family. We have a New Police Chief...... 8 become the great nation that we Each year we set goals and common bond that connects us, a Indigenous People's Day...... 9 are today! objectives which are designed to heritage that binds us and a cul- FEATURE: Annual Pow-Wow...... 10-11 Without the dedication of our serve the Wyandotte people. The ture that keeps us thriving. Each Community News...... 12 ancestors to make sure that the key word is "serve." We, whom you citizen, every citizen, of our tribe Tribal Department Reports...... 13-19 Wyandotte Nation continued to ex- have selected to serve, are honored plays an important role, as does Important Numbers...... 18 ist and to grow, we would likely not to be of service. It is our goal to every tribal employee and all the New Citizen Enrollment...... 20 be meeting here today to review help every Wyandotte in every way people who are committed to the our accomplishments. possible. success of the Wyandotte Nation. It is that spirit of our forefathers Our ancestors put us on the We have many things to celebrate Editor/Design: William Swaim which continues to fire our souls road to being the great nation of today. We also have many things Cover Photo: to this very day. And it is in that people that we are today, so we that keep us striving toward all Tribal Citizen spirit that we continue the tradi- owe them a debt of gratitude. kinds of options, many tasks still Josh Garcia in tions of the past, traditions such Their foresight and desire to make need to be accomplished and many the Men's Grass as this Annual Meeting. the future better have enabled victories are yet to be won! Dance. Each year that we have visited us to grow and to prosper. As we We are a STRONG nation…Let's Photo: William about our progress, it has grown celebrate our remarkable achieve- celebrate that strength today. Swaim increasingly difficult to report to ments, let us also celebrate those God bless the Wyandotte people you how well we have done in such who came before us and made it and God bless the Wyandotte Na- a short report. We simply cannot possible for me to report to you tion! Contact Us acknowledge every one of the Wy- that the state of the Wyandotte Na- It is with your support that these Submit a story idea or your latest andotte Nation's accomplishments tion has never been better! achievements have been possible. news and photos. To submit, email Wil- in the time allotted. Our progress With all of the success and Tizameh to all! in every area continues to excel, progress of our tribe, we must liam Swaim at [email protected] Sincerely, sometimes beyond our expecta- remember that our entire future-- Chief Billy Friend or call (918) 848-0724.

Looking for Elders, Veterans for From the Second Chief Norman Hildebrand, Jr. Feature Stories We are looking for tribal citiznes to feature in upcoming issues, whether you live in the area or Successful events bring some far off distant land, we want to hear your story; elders and veterans especially. tribal citizens together Have News? Kweh We had an election this year and TIZAMEH to Rob -- you exhibited a The Wyandotte Nation had I want to thank all of our Tribal lot of class. Share it another successful Gathering, Citizens for their support for tak- In an earlier Turtle Talk I men- We want to hear from you! Send us Annual Meeting and Pow-Wow. It ing time out of their busy sched- tioned that I was asked to be a news or stories you may have or suggest was great to see all of our Tribal ules to vote for who they wanted to Humanities Scholar for a travel- features for us to work on. Citizens gather for fellowship and be their Second Chief. I especially ing exhibit on the Battle of the Email: [email protected] learning about our heritage. A big want to thank Robert Nesvold for Wabash. Everything hinged on the TIZAMEH to the Cultural Advisory a clean campaign and his inter- grant that Ball State University Group for a fantastic Gathering, I est in wanting to get involved with had applied for and well, I am want to also thank the Pow-Wow Wyandotte Leadership. Rob called happy to announce that they were Committee, our maintenance staff me the following Monday morning and all the volunteers for another to congratulate me on my win and www.facebook.com/WyandotteNation great pow-wow. we had a nice conversation. A big See SECOND CHIEF, Page 3 November 2018 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 3 Calendar of Events 2018 Halloween Party & Carnival Wyandotte Nation Christmas Dinner (Elders) (Preschool) Christmas party Oct. Dec. Dec. 31 8 13 9am 11:30am 10am - - 1pm Noon

hanksgiving inner lders T D (E ) Shop With a Cop Christmas Party (Preschool)

Nov. Dec. Dec. 15 9 14

am 11:30 TBD 9am - 1pm

All events in Wyandotte, Okla. unless otherwise noted

Second Chief “Let us put our minds together and see what life we can make for our children.” Continued from Page 2 --Chief Sitting Bull buildings to the army. A lot of awarded the grant in August. I will these young Indian children died have input on the design, exhibit of various diseases because they layout and script. This will be a government for the exclusive use ing” force at Carlisle, and the use would not keep the healthy stu- fun project and I look forward to of native children. Its first director of native languages was strictly dents away from the sick, tubercu- working with the rest of the project was Capt. Richard Henry Pratt, an forbidden. Further attempts to losis was the most common cause team. army officer who had experience in break tribal ties included plac- of death. They were buried on Now for some history, a subject running an Indian prisoner-of-war ing children with white families school grounds instead of allow- that has gotten a lot of air time camp in St. Augustine, Fla. Pratt for the summer months, dressing ing them to be taken back to their you might say is Boarding Schools. convinced government officials students in military uniforms, and families. Our Juanita McQuistion’s Carlisle Indian Industrial School and humanitarian reformers that encouraging them to find perma- father was a student at Carlisle in Pennsylvania is probably the education was the solution to the nent employment away from their along with the legendary athlete most infamous, there are close to “Indian Problem.” home reservations. Jim Thorpe. This is indeed a very 200 graves there that the govern- By objective of Carlisle’s curricu- By 1900, Carlisle had over twelve dark part of the history in the ment is trying to identify remains lum was, in Pratt’s words, to “Kill hundred students from seventy- plight of the American Indian. and returning them to their re- the Indian and save the man.” The nine tribes. Nevertheless, rising I am very humbled to have the spective families and tribes. It school set out to teach boys skills costs, resistance from parents, a support of the Wyandotte Na- formally opened in 1879 on the in mechanical and agricultural preference for institutions closer tion to allow me to serve them for site of an abandoned military base arts; girls were trained in sewing, to Indian populations, and World four more years, I will do my very in Pennsylvania, Carlisle was the cooking, laundry, and general War I led to the decision to close best to represent my fellow tribal first non-reservation boarding housework. The English language the school in September 1918. The citizens across Indian Country and school established for the U.S. was considered a strong “civiliz- Indian Office returned the school the .

Submit Your News: Submit a story idea or your latest news and photos. Email William Swaim at [email protected]. Page 4 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia November 2018 Annual Meeting

William Swaim/Wyandotte Nation The Wyandotte Nation held its Annual Meeting Saturday morning, Sept. 8, at the Bearskin Healthcare & Wellness Center. Tribal citizens voted in the election and heard the State of the Nation from Chief Billy Friend. The Nation also honored Family Services Director Dana Butterfield as its 'Honored Person for 2018' for all the work she has done for tribal citi- zens and the Tribe. (Clockwise from top left) Chief Billy Friend and Second Chief Norman Hildebrand recognize Dana Butterfield as the 'Honored Person for 2018.' Tribal citizens pack the Fitness Center gym to hear the State of the Nation. Tribal citizens, including the Second Chief, wait in line to vote at the Annual Meeting.

Wyandotte Nation 2018 Election

Election Results: William Swaim/Wyandotte Nation The 2018 Wyandotte Nation Election Results are in. In the only contested race, Nor- man Hildebrand, Jr., was elected as Second Chief of the Wyan- dotte Nation at the Sept. 8 Elec- tion and Annual Meeting at the Bearskin Healthcare & Wellness Center. He beat out challenger Robert Nesvold.

(Pictured Right) Dee Killion, with Hildebrand, Jr. Nesvold the Wyandotte Nation Election Board, swears in Vivian Fink to the Board of Directors, Norman Hildebrand, Jr., as Second Chief, 274 - 92 and Ann Marie Roper to the Grievance Committee Tuesday (366 Total Ballots) afternoon, Oct. 16, at the Tribal Administration building. November 2018 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 5 Healthcare Center celebrates 20 years By William Swaim Wyandotte Nation

The Bearskin Healthcare & Wellness Center celebrated its 20th anniversary in its current location Sept. 13 with food, music and games. Wyandotte Na- tion Chief Billy Friend and Chief of the Eastern Tribe, Glenna Wallace, each discussed the importance of the center for healthcare and wellness, and later cut the anniversary cake. The food was catered by River Bend Casino & Hotel. “Bearskin Healthcare & Well- ness Center is continually grow- ing,” said Director of Health Ser- vices Kelly Friend. “The wellness center addition came in 2011 and now a remodel is scheduled for this fall/winter of the original William Swaim/Wyandotte Nation locker-room facilities. We are Chief of the Eastern Glenna Wallace and Wyandotte Na- always wanting to adapt and ap- tion Chief BIlly Friend cut the anniversary cake. (Pictured Right) Differing prove upon amenities offered to construction phases of the Healthcare & Wellness Center. our customers.” Friend said the Wyandotte Na- “Through these goals, housing, Healthcare Center has seen an Courtesy Photos tion and Eastern Shawnee Tribe education, workforce and social average of 700 more visits each of Oklahoma both have goals services continue to increase,” year in the last three years.” located at the Tribal Administra- of providing a hand up to their Friend said. “This is no different The Bearskin Healthcare & tion Headquarters before the new citizens. with the Healthcare Center. The Wellness Center was originally facility was built.

National Night Out The Wyandotte Nation Tribal/Municipal Police Department (WNTPD) hosted its National Night Out community event Tuesday evening, Aug. 7. The Community Block Party was held at the Bearskin Healthcare & Wellness Center gym. It was an opportu- nity for the community to come together and visit with neighbors and local law enforcement to form stronger partnerships. The event featured exhibitors, food, drinks, music, goodie bags, giveaways and much more. The National Night Out event is designed to heighten crime prevention awareness, strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships, and gener- ate support and participation in the local community. National Night Out is celebrated each year. The in- troduction of National Night Out, “America’s Night Out Against Crime,” began in 1984 as an effort to promote involvement in crime prevention activities, police- community partnerships, neighborhood camaraderie, and to send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back. That first year, 2.5 million Americans took part across 400 communities in 23 states. William Swaim/Wyandotte Nation Annually, communities across the United States join WNTPD Officer Faron Lee talks with citizens during the National Night Out event. forces and celebrate National Night Out. Page 6 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia November 2018 The Gathering A Commemoration, without celebrating, the 175th anniversary of removal

By Lloyd Divine Wyandotte Nation Cultural Advisory Board

September is always a fun and busy time in Wyandotte, Okla. The growing and relaxed little community explodes as Wyan- dotte Nation citizens, along with many honored guests, converge from all over the United States to participate in the annual ‘Gath- ering.’ For three days citizens study their traditional language, learn of their history, relax with take-home crafts, and if they so choose, do a little social or contest dancing at the Wyandotte Nation Pow-Wow. It is truly a great time, friends are made, families are reunited, and when it’s time to leave — no one wants to go home because they are already home. This year’s theme of the An- nual Gathering centered upon the Wyandot Tribe’s highly step they were often pillaged, contested, reluctant, yet volun- taunted, and viewed as noth- tary leaving of the states of ing less than circus animals on and . The year of 2018 parade. Before leaving Ohio there marks the 175th anniversary of are only three known deaths of the Wyandot Tribe leaving the Wyandot citizens. In Cincinnati chosen homeland of Ohio and the Wyandots employed the ser- Michigan for a new home west vice of two steamboats and the of the Mississippi River. Unfor- trip to was com- tunately, upon arrival at the fortable in spite of insults and ill confluence of the Missouri and treatment from the captain and rivers the tribe did not crew of the steamboat Nodaway. have the assurance of land as However, hardship came in great promised by the United States abundance and many Wyandots government in the 1842 treaty would soon die upon arrival to of removal. Unlike many of the the French Bottoms. By this other tribes who also felt the time measles, contracted before unjust betrayal of removal, the leaving the docks in Cincinnati, Wyandot’s trail of tears was not had time to incubate and take littered with hardships and the the lives of many young Wyandot unjustified death of many citi- children. zens. The Wyandots walked but Matthew Walker, in a letter a short distance, a little over one written to John Carey on Octo- William Swaim/Wyandotte Nation hundred and fifty miles, from ber 22, 1843 stated, “Since our (Above) John Webb shows tribal citizens how to make arrows during the Upper Sandusky to Cincinnati; annual Gathering in early September. (Top) Tribal citizens 'gather' in their however, with just about every See GATHERING, Page 7 Gathering T-shirts for a photo at the end of the week. November 2018 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 7

GATHERING To commemorate, but not Continued from Page 6 celebrate, the 175th anniversary of removal a wonderful history arrival here we have had much lesson featured revolving stations sickness. . . . Deaths since we that detailed the many travelings left there is 49: this bill of mor- of our grandparents. Starting tality was confined principally to with the 1651 dispersal from our young children diseases I think traditional homeland in Canada, contracted on the boat including our grandparent’s travelings were the unhealthy situation of their followed to Michilimackinac, encampment it being on a low Rock Island, Wisconsin, back to bottom.”1 Our grandparents sur- Michilimackinac and Michigan, rendered some of the best and and then down into the Ohio most coveted land in Ohio only Country. From Upper Sandusky to find themselves now living on on July 9, 1843 the tribe first swampland condemned as unac- walked, and then rode two ceptable for human habitation. steamboats to Indian Territory The sad thing is, our grandpar- William Swaim/Wyandotte Nation that would became the state of ent were then considered some- The Cultural Advisory Board honored Cathy Wright as their Honored Kansas. As we saw earlier a lot of thing a little less than human Person this year. (Above) Pictured from left: Lloyd Divine, David Culver, challenges beset the tribe, which and it really did not matter to Cathy Wright, Deryl Wright, Marilyn Young and Amanda Butcher. (Below) challenged and forever changed the United States government During the Gathering, tribal citizens learned a bit of history from Lloyd the tribe, yet the Wyandot Tribe Divine, and also took part in a remembrance walk to the Wyandotte Nation where the Wyandots lived. The Cemetery. survived. In 1867 the Wyandot Delaware Tribe honored an old, Tribe became the Wyandotte timeless friendship and provided Tribe after again moving to In- some excellent land upon which die in six short months.”2 On represents the number of Wyan- dian Territory that would become to bury the dead and also as a Sunday, July 9, 1843, six hun- dot citizen who died as a result the state of Oklahoma. new home to their struggling dred sixty-four Wyandots de- of our removal west of the Mis- Along with the history sta- friends. After a lot of hard work parted Upper Sandusky, Ohio for sissippi River—approximately tions many other great things was spent reestablishing the their new, unassigned home in one hundred and fifty citizens, happened at the 2018 Annual Wyandot Tribe on the Wyandot the West. Within one year’s time maybe a few more. Many today Gathering. Dr. John Steckley Purchase the Great Flood of 1844 the number of Wyandot citizen cannot appreciate what this truly led some interesting and enter- again brought untold suffering who had chosen to move west represents when we are now taining discussions regarding in the early summer of 1844 as had been mercilessly reduced to strong with 6,425 Wyandotte our traditional language while it nearly washed all hopes and about five hundred. The Wyan- Nation citizens on the tribal trying to explain the meaning dreams away. dots had stood firm against the roll. In 1843-44 to have lost one of a few Wyandot clan names. “It’s estimated that no fewer pestilence of people as the home- hundred and fifty citizens was a In addition, Mr. Scott Bentley, than one hundred tribal citizens lands were being invaded and staggering loss. To try and put Superintendent of the River eventually died from the diseases they would equally stand firm this into perspective, what would Raisin National Battlefield Park, and their side effects: cholera, and committed to defeating an happen if over the next year the addressed the participants and diarrhea, malaria, pneumonia, unseen pestilence to which they Wyandotte Nation lost 1,500 gave a wonderful and easy to skin infections, oozing lesions, were defenseless. citizens to death? The thought of understand history of the com- and fungal infections, all brought It’s hard to imagine all of this this is ghastly and inconceivable plex events leading to the Battle on by the flood of 1844. The year’s participants, who came yet this is what our grandparent of River Raisin during the War of mental stress of having to endure and celebrated Wyandotte cul- endured as they endeavored to 1812. Cathy Wright was honored and watch so many people die ture at the Gathering of Little reestablish themselves after be- for her many selfless contribu- was traumatic. In total, nearly Turtles in June and the Annual ing removed from Michigan and one in six tribal citizens would Gathering in September, likely Ohio to Indian Territory. Continued on Page 8 Page 8 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia November 2018 GATHERING Johnston named WNTPD Police Chief Continued from Page 7 The Wyandotte Nation selected Johnston has ing time riding motorcycles and tions in helping make the Gath- Glenn Johnston to serve as the more than 25 visiting his daughter in Florida. ering of Little Turtles and the new Chief of Police for the Wyan- years of expe- Ken Murphy resigned his Annual Gathering a success. dotte Nation Tribal Police Depart- rience in law position as Chief of Police of the Loretta Combes and Teresa ment. Johnston started in the enforcement and Wyandotte Nation Tribal Police Wilson put a lot of planning into role Oct. 14. brings a wealth of Department (WNTPD) in late Sep- the event and David Culver was “Glenn brings a wealth of ex- knowledge to the tember. Murphy served as Chief the ring leader keeping every- perience to the department, and department and of Police for nine years. thing on time and in relative as a longtime resident of Ottawa the Tribe. WNTPD Officer Faron Lee served County, has a great knowledge He is certified as Interim Police Chief while the order. Marilyn Young taught JOHNSTON participants how to make corn of our community and its resi- as a crime scene Wyandotte Nation conducted its husk dolls; Amanda Butcher dents,” said Wyandotte Nation investigator. In search to fill the position, hiring taught wampum beads; John Chief Billy Friend. his spare time he enjoys spend- Johnston to replace Murphy. Webb and Deryl Wright taught the art of making traditional Wy- andot arrows; and Angie Morgan taught peyote beading. Partici- pants visited the Bland Cemetery WNTPD donates Toughbooks to Sheriff’s Office where biographies were given on The Wyandotte Nation Tribal Irvin Patton Long and Nancy Pipe Police Department (WNTPD) and Mudeater by Lloyd Divine. Many Wyandotte Nation donated nine others helped with an unques- used Toughbooks to the Ottawa tioned commitment to making County Sheriff’s Office Wednes- every participant comfortable, day, Oct. 10. entertained, and informed. A Officers rely on the Toughbooks lot of great food was consumed. in their patrol cars and out in the New friends were made and lost field to receive and send emergen- family members reunited. Two cy information, among other uses. citizens even discovered their “It’s a matter of one law enforce- lost clan identities. To close the ment agency helping out another year’s events Chief Friend and -- these Toughbooks will allow the Second Chief Hildebrand led the Ottawa County Deputies to get Walk of Remembrance honoring the information they need at their all our ancestors who have gone fingertips so they can better serve before us allowing us the privi- the residents of Ottawa County,” lege and responsibility of being said Wyandotte Nation Second Wyandottes today. Chief Norman Hildebrand, Jr. “It William Swaim/Wyandotte Nation See all that you missed by not is a pleasure for the Wyandotte WNTPD Officer Faron Lee, Second Chief Norman Hildebrand, Ottawa attending? Start making plans County Sheriff Jeremy Floyd, and WNTPD Officer Mike Smith with the Nation to be able to donate these donated Toughbooks. today to join us for the 16th An- Toughbooks to the Ottawa Coun- nual Gathering to be held Sept. ty Sheriff’s Office.” 11-13, 2019. expensive for these Toughbooks. The Toughbooks are valued ______Jeremy Floyd, of the Ottawa With our limited resources and around $4,000-$5,000 per lap- County Sheriff’s Department, 1. Walker, Matthew. “Personal Letter budgeting, it made it hard for top. to John Carey 22 Oct. 1843.” said the Toughbooks will greatly us to go forward with that plan- Along with Sheriff Floyd and 2. Divine Jr., Lloyd Eldon. On the Back benefit the deputies in the field. ning goal, but with this awesome Second Chief Hildebrand, on of a Turtle: A Narrative of the Huron- “It’s something we’ve been donation, it is going to move hand for the donation were . Columbus: Ohio working on for a while,” Sheriff mountains for us on the technol- WNTPD Officers Mike Smith and State University Press, 2019. 238. Floyd said. “The cost is quite ogy side of things.” Faron Lee. ‘Shop With a Cop’ program seeking donations, volunteers The Wyandotte Nation Tribal The WNTPD’s ‘Shop With a Cop’ If you choose to donate to this The shop date has tentatively Police Department (WNTPD) is program joins these underprivi- event, please return your con- been set for Sunday, Dec. 9. looking for donations and/or leged children with local police tribution as soon as possible To donate or volunteer to help volunteers to support its ‘Shop officers, providing the children to help ensure the maximum out the ‘Shop With a Cop’ pro- With a Cop’ program. with money to shop for Christ- number of children will be in- gram, contact Pat Wilson, (918) Local families experiencing mas presents for their families cluded according to the funding 678-6364 or pwilson@wntpd. economic hardships can’t always and themselves. received. You can also volunteer com or send your donation to: provide their children with their This event is made success- your time to help with the shop- 64700 E Hwy 60, Wyandotte, OK own celebration of Christmas. ful by individuals such as you. ping or wrapping presents. 74370. November 2018 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia Page 9 Indigenous People's Day celebration takes place in LA

By William Swaim Wyandotte Nation

Wyandotte Nation Chief Billy Friend joined tribal citizen and Los Angeles City Councilman Mitch O’Farrell to celebrate In- digenous People’s Day, replacing Columbus Day Oct. 12. O’Farrell was instrumental in implementing Indigenous People’s Day in place of Columbus Day in the LA, as local city and state governments across the country increasingly are replacing the traditional holiday with an obser- vance of Native American culture and its history instead. O’Farrell is the grandson of the late Mont Cotter, who served the Courtesy Photos Wyandotte Nation as chief on two (Above) Chief Billy Friend (middle) with tribal citizen and LA City Coun- cilman Mitch O'Farrell (right) and leaders of the local Tongva Tribe at different occasions in the tribe’s the Indigenous People's Day in LA. (Above right) Chief Friend during the history. He was elected as a city processional. (Right) Friend and O'Farrell with the Indigenous People's Day councilman in 2013. resolution. “It was an honor for me to be invited to speak at the inaugural part in the parade of Nations. ing Columbus Day, established celebration of Indigenous Peoples The local tribe, the Tongva Tribe, as a national holiday in 1937, Day in Los Angeles,” Chief Friend led the procession followed by with a celebration recognizing said. “Mitch has been a war- Chief Friend and the other tribal instead native people. Berkeley, The Los Angeles City Coun- rior in the fight for honoring our nations. The event also featured Calif., was the first to symboli- cil voted last year to eliminate native people and hopefully this a 5K run, led by O’Farrell, and cally rename Columbus Day with Columbus Day from the city event in the second largest city an outdoor concert headlined Indigenous People’s Day in 1992. calendar and replace it with in the United States will serve by the Grammy-winning group While Columbus had long Indigenous People’s Day. The vote as a catalyst for the rest of our Black Eyed Peas and the Native been credited with ‘discovering wasn’t a smooth one as Italian- country to honor our people and American rock band Redbone. America,’ scholars have started to American groups objected to the correct the history that has been The idea of an Indigenous acknowledge more of the history change. Still, O’Farrell was able to taught for the last 200 years.” People’s Day started to come to erased from education and history garner the support of fellow coun- Friend and O’Farrell spoke at fruition in 1977 when the United books that essentially involved the cilpersons to pass the vote 14-1 the Sunrise Ceremony and took Nations began discussing replac- genocide of native peoples. in the U.S.’s second largest city. Wyandotte Nation donates $100,000 to local school district

In a time when schools and educa- The Nation has donated to the tion in the state of Oklahoma are school district the past three years facing a lack of funding, the Wyan- and lets the district decide how to dotte Nation stepped up to help the best use the donation to provide local Wyandotte School District. quality education in the area. The Tribe donated $100,000 to For Chief Friend, the donation is the school district with the hope of all part of the bigger picture with the alleviating some of the stress placed Tribe in building a strong community on local schools. here in Wyandotte. It’s an invest- “We were very fortunate again ment in education and the future of this year to be able to provide the our children. Wyandotte schools with a $100,000 “Our strategic planning for our donation to help them in areas that Nation centers around building a they may be experiencing cuts,” said strong and vibrant community here Wyandotte Nation Chief Billy Friend. in Wyandotte, and having a qual- “The Wyandotte Nation realizes Courtesy Photo ity school system such as we do that these are very challenging and trying to provide our students with world. The last thing they should here goes a long way in helping us difficult times for school administra- a quality education that will enable worry about is lack of funding due to achieve this goal,” Chief Friend said. tors, school boards and teachers them to compete in a very complex things beyond their control.” Page 10 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia November 2018

Photos by 29th Annual Pow-Wow William Swaim The Wyandotte Nation's 29th An- nual Pow-Wow was forced to move from the Pow-Wow grounds to the Wyandotte High School gym Friday evening, Sept. 7, due to weather, but the rain couldn't dampen a fantastic evening of dancing, and despite a little more rain, the Pow- Wow wrapped up Saturday and Sunday at the Pow-Wow Grounds. The Head Singer was Gene Sovo and the Northern Drum Redscout. The Head Gourd Dancer was Murry Rhoads, Jr., and the Head Man Dancer was Chuck Bread, and Nicole Ponkilla was the Head Lady Dancer. The Arena Director was Dude Blalock, Jay Blalock was Head Judge and Steve Kinder was Master of Ceremonies.

To see more photos from the 29th Annual Wyandotte Na- tion Pow-Wow, visit our Facebook page and ‘Like’ us. www.facebook.com/WyandotteNation November 2018 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 11 Page 12 www.wyandotte-nation.org November 2018 Tribal Citizen & Community News Tribal elders honored by AARP Wyandotte Nation tribal citizens is an aspiring, self-appointed stew- Tom Keffer and Larry Hamilton ard of the Wyandotte tribal past and were honored in October at the its future to come. 2018 AARP Oklahoma Indian Elder Hamilton served and protected Honors. the nation for 17 years as a member It’s one of AARP Oklahoma’s most of the U.S. Air Force. Additionally, prestigious and visible awards, given Hamilton served as the former com- to recognize outstanding Native mander of the Wyandotte Nation American elders who are making Honor Guard. He also served the a powerful difference in their com- Wyandotte Nation as the Workforce munities, and Indian Country, in Investment Act director and later ways that are consistent with AARP’s joined the Wyandotte Nation main- mission and vision, and who inspire tenance department as a facilities others to service. technician, where he still continues As an elder of the Wyandotte Na- this role. He is well-known through- tion, Keffer is a retired archaeologist out the community as a person that who has spent many years digging Courtesy Photos is always willing to lend a helping into the histories and ‘footprint’ left hand. Hamilton has been married by the various cultures. Keffer said ing the many grave markers in the Huron/Wyandotte Cemetery in Kan- to his wife, Karen, for 40 years, and he has always been struck by the cemeteries of the Wyandotte Nation. sas City, Kansas. More than three they have three daughters, one son notion that a grave marker is many Keffer started with a tribal cemetery years into his mission, Keffer has and two granddaughters. times the only physical reminder of in Wyandotte and then progressed donated countless hours to ensuring The 10th Annual AARP Oklahoma a person. This realization is what to three other area cemeteries. He is the many hundreds of the Wyandotte Indian Elder Honors was held at the inspired him to take on the task now working on the grave markers ancestors’ grave markers are fresh National Cowboy and Western Heri- of cleaning, repairing and preserv- of Wyandotte peoples interred in the and preserved for years to come. He tage Museum in Oklahoma City. Shelton receives Tribal Artisan Showcase OTGRA scholarship The Wyandotte Nation Tribal Artisan Showcase had 48 entries from 20 The Oklahoma tribal citizens, an increase from previous years as the showcase contin- Tribal Gaming Reg- ues to grow. Youth participants were Gracie Blake, Caleb Garcia, Gabe ulators Association Garcia, Alexis Harwood, Cora Lee Rice, Michaela Rice, and Hailey Street- (OTGRA) selected er. Adult category entries were received from Candace Dees, Kim Garcia, Kimberly Shelton Josh Garcia, Jennifer Goodman, as a recipient of the Ashley Harwood, Melani Lyman, Jess Green OTGRA and Angela Morgan. Tribal citizens Memorial Scholar- Linda Blake, Janie Cole, Mike Ham- ship. The scholar- ilton, David Keffer, Brenda Lamb ship acknowledges and Deryl Wright each showcased those emerging items in the Golden Years division. tribal gaming regulators who have Tribal Heritage Director Sherri demonstrated leadership, initiative Clemons has agreed to recognize and dedication to their tribal gaming a “Best of Show” award for the commissions. Shelton is the daugh- contest in 2019 in conjunction with ter of tribal citizen and Wyandotte the 30th Wyandotte Nation Pow- Tribe of Oklahoma employee Rhonda Wow. Klindworth. Wyandotte Nation recognizes October for Domestic Violence Awareness for Wyandotte Nation. The signing get back on their feet and know that tive Americans or anyone in need. y utumn racey B A B of the proclamation Monday Oct. 1 they can take care of things on their Some of the services offered within Four States / KODE has evoked emotion for many in the own again is huge,” said Lisa Arnold, the Domestic Violence Program Wyandotte Nation. Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault includes helping victims find a place The Wyandotte Nation recognized "These people have just been Victims Educator for the Wyandotte to live, counseling, and seek legal the issue of domestic violence and is systematically placed in a position to Nation. services. working to combat the issue. where they feel alone. They've been Wyandotte has a place for people If you are in need of help you can Chief Billy Friend signed a proc- isolated by their abuser, and so to to come and get support thanks to call Wyandotte Nation at (918) 678- lamation declaring October as know that they have somebody to their domestic violence program. 2297. Domestic Violence Awareness Month trust to speak to that can help them There grant allows them to help Na- November 2018 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 13 Tribal Department Reports Human Resources daughter, family and friends. Jan certs in her spare time. Kayla also Citizen and is in her senior year at Submitted by Deana Howard, brings a wealth of knowledge and likes spending time with her family Wyandotte High School. She enjoys HR Director experience with her. We are very attending church, and doing activi- spending time with her family. We fortunate to have Jan and wish her ties with Kids/Teens. We are happy are pleased to have Abby and wish The Wyandotte Nation Police much success in this new position. to have Kayla on our team. her much success in her new posi- Department is proud to welcome John is an Victoria Sloan received her High tion. Glenn Johnston Ottawa County/ School Diploma as the new Police Wyandotte na- and has two years Chief. Glenn has tive. He graduated of college behind The Bearskin Fitness Center is over 25 years of from Seneca High her and is currently happy to welcome tribal citizens experience in Law School, spent 4 enrolled at VO-Tech Ryan Cooper and Coy Vowels as Enforcement. He is years in the Navy LPN School. In her Front Desk Assistants and Lynnea certified as a crime as an Aircraft spare she enjoys Cox to her new position as Fitness scene investigator. Mechanic and swimming and bak- Supervisor. In his spare time attended NEO ing. She also loves Lynnea Cox he enjoys spending A&M College. John spending time with transferred from time riding motor- has a wealth of her family, and also our Summer Youth KOCH cycles and visiting experience in Law SLOAN enjoys hanging out Program and has JOHNSTON his daughter in Enforcement and with friends. We fitness and child- Florida. We are retired from the Miami Police Depart- are very fortunate care experience. very excited to transfer Glenn into ment after 25 years. He brings exten- to have Victoria join our Education Lynnea is in her his new position and wish him much sive courtroom knowledge with him Team again. 2nd year of college success. from his years working with Ottawa Robyn Beaty comes to us with pre- at NEO and was a County District Court. In his spare vious food service 2017 Wyandotte The Account- time he enjoys fishing and traveling experience and High School Gradu- ing Department is to the mountains. He also enjoys loves working with COX ate. Lynnea enjoys happy to welcome playing guitar and he likes to ride children. Robyn spending time with Ben Schwarting. motorcycles. We are very fortunate enjoys spending family and friends. Ben will serve as to have John and wish him much time with her fam- We are very fortunate to have Lynnea the Accounting success in his new position. ily. She also enjoys on our team. Director for the cooking, crafts, Ryan Cooper is Wyandotte Nation. The Wyandotte Nation Education fishing and garden- a 2018 Graduate Ben transferred Department is happy to welcome ing in her spare from Wyandotte from River Bend Katelin Stepp as an Afterschool time. We are very High School and is Casino after serv- Childcare Assistant, Kayla Collins in fortunate to have currently enrolled SCHWARTING BEATY ing 6 years as staff her new position as Afterschool Pro- Robyn on our team in CNC Classes accountant and gram Lead, Victoria Sloan back as and wish her the at VO-Tech. Ryan Assistant Controller. Ben graduated an afterschool Teacher’s Assistant, best of luck in her position. transferred from from Joplin High School and has Robyn Beaty as an Early Childhood Samantha Butterfield graduated the Wyandotte Na- his bachelor’s degree in Accounting Food Service Cook, Samantha But- from NEO in 2008, and attended tion Summer Youth from MSSU. He brings a wealth of terfield to her new position as Edu- NSU pursuing a degree in Human Intern Program. experience in Accounting. His spare cation Specialist, and Abby Friend as and Family Sciences. She brings In his spare time COOPER time includes spending many hours a Substitute. several years’ experience in this field. he enjoys spend- at the ballpark supporting his son’s Katelin Stepp enjoys working with She enjoys doing ing time with his baseball. He loves tacos! We are very children, singing, beadwork, reading, family and friends. He likes playing fortunate to have Ben on our team photography, act- and finding new sports and video games. We are very and wish him much success in his ing, running, and creative projects fortunate to have Ryan on our team new position. spending time with in her spare time. and wish him much success in this her friends and Samantha also position. The Wyandotte Nation Courts De- youth group. We likes spending time Coy will serve as partment is proud to welcome Tribal are very fortunate with her son and the Fitness Front Member Jan Grant as our Court Ad- to have Katelin family, traveling Desk Assistant. ministrator for the Wyandotte Nation work with the after- and exploring new Coy is a graduate of District Tribal Court, and John Koch school program. places, going to Poteau High School as our new Court Bailiff. Kayla Collins amusement parks and a scholar for Jan has her BS in Criminal Jus- STEPP is a Wyandotte BUTTERFIELD and visiting friends the National Native tice Administration, Nation Citizen and on the east coast. American Asso- AS in Law Enforce- has several years’ We are happy to ciation of American ment and just com- experience working have Samantha on Indian Physicians; pleted her Masters as a teacher and our team. but is originally of Legal Studies of in the classroom. Abby Friend loves from Wyandotte, VOWELS Indigenous Peoples She received her children and has Okla. In his spare Law. In her spare Bachelor’s Degree previous experience time he enjoys time she enjoys from Pittsburg from participating spending time rock climbing, run- photography, shop- State University. in our tribal sum- ning and anything outside period. ping and travel. She enjoys reading, mer youth intern We are very fortunate to have Coy on She enjoys spend- watching movies, program. Abby is a our team and wish him much suc- GRANT ing time with her COLLINS and attending con- FRIEND Wyandotte Tribal cess in this new position. Page 14 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia November 2018 Tribal Department Reports Family Services Supplemental Health Benefit (Benny Card) The Following programs run Submitted by Dana Butterfield, throughout the year for residents Family Services Director in OK, MO, AR, KS. Applications During a recent audit of the approved and accompanied by a must be received or post marked Supplemental Health/Benny Doctors statement of need/letter It was great to see so many of by Sept. 30: our tribal citizens at the Gathering, accounts it has been determined of necessity. Some of these items Elders Assistance – One-time ex- Annual Meeting and Pow-Wow this that there has been fraudulent include vitamins, massages and pense for $250 for tribal elders aged year! Even though the Friday night activity and misuse of these gym memberships. 55 and over. session of the Pow-Wow had to be funds. Please keep in mind that This has been an amazing pro- moved indoors, due to weather, it the Benny card is to be used only gram for many of our citizens and Extra-Expense/Extracurricular was still a wonderful weekend for for approved medical/health re- continues to grow each year. The Activities – One-time payment of friends and family to enjoy. Each of lated expenditures. Due to these estimated expenditure for 2018 $100 per student aged pre – K (at these events continue to grow as we issues, we have asked CoreSource will be nearly 4 million dollars. least 3 years of age) through 12th have more and more tribal citizens to monitor the accounts more Please help us to continue to make grade. come to participate. closely and they will be asking for this benefit successful and be I would like to thank Chief Friend, receipts on questionable items. If mindful of the program guidelines. Jr/Sr Benefit – $250 benefit for 2nd Chief Hildebrand, Sherri Clem- citizens do not respond to their Citizens have until Feb. 28, expenses associated with the Junior ons, the Pow-Wow Committee, requests or are unable to provide 2019 to file claims for 2018 funds. and Senior years of High School. and anyone else who had a hand appropriate documentation then You will not be able to swipe your in selecting me to be the Honored accounts will be suspended until Benny card after Dec. 31 for 2018 Fuel Assistance – Fuel assistance Person for 2018. This was a com- the issue can be cleared. expenditures. You will need to programs include: Hardship – per- plete surprise and I feel extremely If you have questions about pay those expenses out of pocket sonal hardships, travel for work/job humbled by this award. When allowable expenses please refer then file for a reimbursement. If interviews, etc; Medical – travel to/ I began working for the Tribe in to the flyer provided by Core- you need assistance with filing a from doctor/dental appointments 1996, I never would have dreamed Source annually in December or claim you can contact a member and pick up prescriptions; Major how much the Wyandotte Nation call CoreSource directly at the of the Family Services staff or Medical – extreme medical issues tribal citizens and employees would number listed below. You can CoreSource. (must be life threatening, terminal, come to mean to me. I feel so very also obtain information based on Contact information: etc. not chronic medical issues) that privileged to be able to come to work an Internet search for “Flexible Family Services – (918) 678- require multiple trips outside of the every day at the Nation. I also want Spending Accounts”. Keep in 6319 or (918) 678-6329 local area. Program provides fuel to thank Ron Kaiser, who gave me a mind there are certain expendi- CoreSource – (800) 990-9058 vouchers through the Turtle Stop chance, Kate Randall, who showed tures that will only be allowable if x42086. convenience store for local tribal me love and compassion, the Family citizens or tribal citizens who travel Services staff for being my support to the Bearskin Healthcare and Well- system, and the Wyandotte people ness Center. across the country for allowing me to do this job that I love! Dec. 8 from 10am to Noon at the applications for the gift card and The Family Services Department Bearskin Healthcare and Wellness reimbursement program. If you did Other Programs provided has many programs and services to Center gym. Doors will open at not return your receipts for either offer tribal citizens. In the remainder approximately 9:45, depending on the School Supplies or last year’s by the Family Services of this article you will find highlights the weather of the day and you will Winter Clothing gift cards, you will Department: of those programs. If you have any need to enter through the gym doors. be required to use the reimburse- Each Wyandotte child ages birth to ment program this year. Incomplete questions or concerns please feel Continued on Page 15 free to contact us: Dana Butter- 12 will receive a gift from Santa and applications will be returned to the field, Director, (918) 678-6319; Tara tribal parents who are present with sender. Gragg, ICW Supervisor, (918) 678- their eligible children will receive a 6355; Leeanna Radabaugh, Family $25 Walmart gift card (1 per house- Senior Energy (Winter) – $100 TAG REMINDERS: Services Assistant, (918) 678-6329; hold). This year the theme of the assistance paid directly to the utility Tiffany Garner, ICW Social Worker, party will be “Polar Express” and provider. Eligibility requirements; • Must be an enrolled citizen of the (918) 678-6353; and Lisa Arnold, there will be fun activities around 55 or older, OK, MO, AR, KS resi- Wyandotte Nation, an Oklahoma this theme. Children are encouraged dent. Program begins Oct. 1 and Domestic Violence Advocate/Educa- resident AND the car must be tor, (918) 678-6324. Be sure to visit to wear their pajamas to the party! ends Feb. 28. the Wyandotte Nation website www. As always, Grandparents, aunts, principally garaged in Oklahoma wyandotte-nation.org and follow the uncles, siblings, etc. are all welcome APPLICATIONS FOR THE ABOVE Indian country. Wyandotte Nation Facebook page to attend and share in the joy of PROGRAMS MUST BE RECEIVED • Oklahoma Insurance Verification to stay up-to-date on events and Christmas! OR POST MARKED BY Feb. 28 must accompany renewals (ex- TO BE ELIGIBLE AND BILLS/ program announcements that will cept for RV’s and Travel Trailers). be posted in between issues of the Winter Clothing – Starts Nov. 1 RECEIPTS MUST BE DATED newsletters. and ends Feb. 28 for pre-K (must BETWEEN OCT. 1, 2018 AND FEB. • If you are purchasing a new/ be enrolled in a structured learning 28, 2019, NO EXCEPTIONS. used vehicle, the Tribal citizen’s program and be at least 3 years old) name MUST be on the Title at the through grade 12. OK, MO, AR, KS LIHEAP – LIHEAP is a federal time of assignment. Wyandotte Upcoming Winter residents. Reimbursement program grant program and if funding is or Walmart gift card for $100 per received, funds will be available Nation Tax Commission staff CAN Programs: student. Applications, along with beginning Dec. 1 for tribal citizen NOT add or delete names. guidelines, will be available on the residing in Oklahoma. This program For questions, please call (918) 678- Children’s Christmas Party – home page of the Tribe’s website. is income based and proof of income 6329 or (918) 678-6319 The party will be held Saturday, Please note there are separate is required. November 2018 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 15 Tribal Department Reports

Continued from Page 14 Passenger, RV, Motorcycle and from the Administration for Children We will be traveling to Will Rogers Handicap tags are available. Please and Families. Both of these grants Downs in Claremore, Okla., to see Child Safety Seats – Each child is call the office for prices and addi- will be used to provide advocacy to the horse races on Nov. 9. The coach eligible for 3 seats in different sizes tional information. All new requests individuals who are victims of do- will be leaving at 11am. The cost is and can be picked up at the tribal must be accompanied by the original mestic violence, sexual assault, dat- $25 and includes the lunch buffet, office. Staff try to keep all sizes on title and proof of insurance. Renew- ing violence and stalking. Services racing program and transportation. hand, but if you are traveling from a als require a proof of insurance. for victims include shelter, utilities, Everyone will also receive a $5 free distance please call in advanced to Incomplete requests will be returned food, clothing, transportation, court play for the casino. Please come and ensure the correct seat is available. to the tribal citizen. accompaniment, counseling, etc and play with us! Promoting Safe & Stable Fami- can be provided to any victim who Our Thanksgiving Dinner will be lies/Indian Child Welfare – This Supplemental Health Benefit resides within a 25-mile radius of Thursday, Nov. 15. Staff and vol- program is funded through a federal (Benny Card) – This program has the Wyandotte Nation. Victims do unteers will serve the elders so they grant from the Administration for been renewed and accounts will be not have to be Wyandotte or Native will not have to stand in line. We will Children and Families. It is de- re-loaded Jan. 1, 2019. The benefits to reserve services. There will also have turkey, dressing, and all the signed to help keep children in their will be the same as previous years be awareness campaigns, events trimmings. homes with the family or ensure that with a $1,000 per year benefit for and cultural activities to educate the Our Christmas Dinner will be if there is a need for removal that adult (18 and over) tribal citizens. community regarding these issues. Thursday, Dec. 13. Staff and volun- federal guidelines are adhered to and Tribal citizens who have enrolled teers will also be serving the elders the best interest of the child is first Wyandotte Nation dependents will at this event. We will have brisket, and foremost. If your family is in a receive an additional $1,000 for a baked potatoes and sides. We are situation where the state is involved, maximum of $2,000 per account. planning on a visit from Santa. We please contact either of the ICW So- Individuals who were voted into will be giving every attendee one cial Workers. The Tribe is continu- citizenship at the Annual Meeting Elder Services of our delicious homemade candy ally seeking foster families. If you’re will receive their account information trays. We will also be giving away a interested in sharing your home in December and accounts will be Submitted by Brenda House, recliner. with a child in need, please contact active Jan. 1, 2019. Quarterly state- Elder Services Director Tara or Tiffany at the numbers listed ments are mailed by CoreSource above. to show remaining balances, but Wow! It is hard to believe that the Caregiver Enrollment – Aug. 15 is the account balances can be obtained holidays are almost upon us. deadline to be considered for enroll- at any time via www.mycoresource. We will be hosting a Medicare Part The Caregiver Support Group ment at the 2019 Annual Meeting. com or by calling (800) 990-9058 ext D Enrollment Clinic at the Artie will hold their annual Christmas Applications must be submitted 42086. Nesvold Community Center Nov. luncheon and meeting at the Twin along with an original state certified 5. There will be a trained Medicare Bridges Restaurant. Inside the River birth certificate. Applications can Burial Assistance – $1,500 to be Counselor here from 10am to 2pm Bend Casino at 10:30am. There will be submitted at any during the year paid to the funeral home or to the with Medicare packets and will be be a $10 gift exchange. The group is and birth certificates will be returned family representative if the funeral able to assist anyone that needs help within 10-14 business days. is paid in full. Applications must filling out the forms or just needs be submitted within 90 days of the information. Continued on Page 16 New Enrollee Benefit – If a child’s tribal citizen’s death. application is received prior to their first birthday they will receive a $100 Family Violence Prevention Walmart gift card and a blanket with Program – The Wyandotte Nation is Wyandotte Nation the Tribal Turtle. pleased to announce that it has been funded again through the Office of Family Services Programs Tribal Tags – Available for tribal Violence Against Women (OVW). The citizens who reside in Oklahoma. Nation has also received funding Dates to Remember

Elder’s Assistance: Oct. 1 – Sept. 30 Senior Energy: Winter: Oct. 1 – Feb. 28 Start your journey today Senior Energy: Summer: July 1 – Sept. 30 LIHEAP: (if available) Winter: Dec. 1 – Feb. 28 LIHEAP: (if available) Summer: July 1 – Sept. 30 You don’t have to be perfect to be a foster parent. School Supplies: July 1 – Sept. 30 Every year thousands of children are placed in foster care. Children’s Winter Clothing: Nov. 1 – Feb. 28 When a child who is a member or is eligible for membership in Extracurricular Activities: Oct. 1 – Sept. 30 the Wyandotte Nation, is placed into foster, the ideal situation Jr./Sr. High School Assist.: Oct. 1 – Sept. 30 is for that child to be either with family or in another Wyan- Children’s Christmas Party: Dec. 8 dotte tribal home. Children need a safe, loving place to stay. Wyandotte Nation Annual Meeting: Sept. 14 That is all you need to start the process of becoming a foster (Second Saturday of September each year) parent. It doesn’t matter where you live, please contact the Family Services Department to start your journey today. Note: All applications must be in our office or post marked on or before the last day of the program. Page 16 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia November 2018 Tribal Department Reports

Continued from Page 15 “Education is the key to unlock the golden program will make some changes in protocol as a result of the “measured open to all current and past Care- door of freedom.” outcomes” regulations. We are ac- givers. Please contact Brenda for --George Washington Carver cepting applications and are eager information. to assist students. A quick reminder As always, it is a pleasure serv- that these funds are available to as- ing the Wyandotte Nation citizens. sist members of federally recognized Please feel free to call or come by tribes in the Southeast Kansas and and visit us anytime. Southwest Missouri area. Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christ- The Tribal library has received mas and Happy New Year from your several new items in the past month Wyandotte Nation family. and Ms. Deb invites all to stop by Department Contacts: and look at them. It was a pleasure Brenda House, Elder Services for myself and Deb Haynes to be Director, (918) 678-6327. invited to speak about the enhance- Stephanie Hamilton, Food Service ment grant “Gateway to the World” Team Supervisor, (918) 678-6328, at the Association of Tribal Archives, (Office) 6390. Libraries and Museum Conference. Seth Higginbotham, Chris Rhodes The Education Department staff and Twylia Stone Food Service Team is available to assist citizens with Members (918) 678-6328. resources in the areas of educational Menu, (918) 678-6326. funding, childcare, workforce and the tribal library. If you have any questions or if we may assist you in the application process for any of our programs, Education please do not hesitate to reach out! Courtesy Photo The Tribal Citizen is our primary Submitted by Tammy Charles, focus and we want to deliver the Education Director possible. Many scholarships request member to send an updated official services that you need! information regarding PELL eligibility transcript to apply for spring funds. It was a pleasure to meet so many as the student completes the applica- If you are planning to graduate with Department Contacts: tribal citizens during the ‘Gathering.’ tion. Proof of filing is required for the a post-secondary degree, please send Tammy R Charles- Director of I do hope those that were in atten- Wyandotte Nation scholarship but the proof of filing for graduation to me Education (918) 678-6330 office; dance enjoyed the time and those citizen need not be deemed eligible so that I can send Wyandotte Nation (918) 944-0394 cell that were unable to be here can for funds to receive the Wyandotte graduation stole for you to wear at Cristi Hudson- Child Care make plans to join us next Septem- Scholarship. The increase of funds for commencement. Resource Referral (918) 678-6334 ber. the undergraduate scholarship was The Child Care and Development Sami Butterfield- Education With the arrival of October we wit- well received! Many students have Program is busy doing recertification Specialist- WIOA (918) 678-6331 ness a change of seasons, experience called and emailed to express their of families and plan- the closing of program years, and gratitude. ning for the submission begin new projects. It is always a pleasure to visit with of annual reports. The The early education program class- tribal citizens on matters regarding increase in payment rates rooms are filled with new faces that educational pursuits. I had the op- was welcomed in our are adjusting nicely to new routines. portunity to travel to Tulsa and meet early childhood facility There are five classrooms with nearly with a first generation college stu- and with the providers 100 children in them daily! Classes dent and assist her with the applica- we subsidize. The CCDF have enjoyed family night events, tion process. I am eternally grateful program is a valuable field trips to the pumpkin patch and to Carla Culver for the time she gave resource to aid with the plans are underway for Halloween to me and taught me the college pro- child care expenses of our events and programs. cesses. I want to be of assistance to families. We are accepting The facility will be getting a facelift the citizens of the Wyandotte Nation applications for families in the coming weeks inside and out. and remove any barriers that I may. in need of assistance. New carpeting will be installed and Please keep in mind the funds Parents must be working part of the front playground will be available from the Education Depart- or attending school to covered with artificial turf. Before ment for your high school students. apply. To be eligible for and after school care has taken on We assist with the expenses related Wyandotte Nation CCDF, a new format this year and we are to vocational schools, college con- you must reside within including regular time in the library current course work, and advanced 100 miles of our tribal and computer lab for those partici- placement exams. We also fund adult headquarters. I am al- pants. The program is thriving and vocational programs and GED testing ways available to help you growing! expenses. locate assistance in your Fall scholarships continue to be The Master’s program has several area with another grantee processed and it is time for high new students this fall. A few of them if you do not reside in our school seniors to start working on recently completed their under- service area. FASFA applications and start plan- graduate degrees and are moving to The WIOA grant ap- ning for life after graduation. High advanced degrees. The Wyandotte plication was approved school seniors need to complete the Nation wishes them the best! for funding by the De- FASFA application process as soon as When the semester ends, re- partment of Labor. The Courtesy Photo November 2018 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 17 Tribal Department Reports Environmental

Submitted by Kathy Welch, Environmental Program Manager

Seems like we’ve had an excel- lerated summer. Fourth of July is one of my favorite holidays, with the fireworks and family get togethers, it’s like the official kick off of sum- mer. Then boom! It’s the beginning of a new school year, county fairs, pow-wows, and football season. July is always a good month for performing Septic Assessments for our EPA 319 Grant. I, along with our Certified ODEQ Assessor/ Contractor, performed five assess- ments. We were happy to report all five systems were in good working condition. On July 16, I attended the NA- TURE Meeting hosted by the Peoria Tribe of Oklahoma. Courtesy Photos During this month Braulio (Pictured Left) The Environmental Department and Communities Unlimited co-hosted a Decentralized Wastewater Ramirez attended the ITEC (Inter Training at the Bearskin Healthcare & Wellness Center. (Pictured Right) Janice Wilson and Braulio Ramirez had an Tribal Environmental Council) education booth at the Eastern Shawnee Water Festival. Conference that was held in Catoosa, Okla., July 24-26. August found us saying goodbye to our Tribal Member/Summer Youth achieve many goals through out his sessions that pertained to Recycling ecoli-sampling on our seven sam- Worker, Devon Rutledge. This year years to come. The picture below and Water Education. pling sites. Our departments water was the third year that Devon has shows Devon helping the Environ- This month also found Kathleen technicians continue to sample worked in our department. Devon mental Department Staff with a Welch performing five additional seven monthly monitoring sites on a is a valuable asset and we so enjoy Bio-Asssessment on Mason Valley Septic Assessments, with one of the regular basis throughout the month. having him work with us. His enthu- Spring Creek. five to be found failing. We are work- These sites include Spring and siasm about the environment and ing with our Certified Contractor to Neosho Rivers, Sycamore Creek and protecting it is refreshing. Devon is Aug. 11 was the Shoal Creek install a new system to replace the Lost Creek. a Senior at Wyandotte High School Water Festival. Janice Wilson and existing failing system and were hop- On Sept. 25, our department and and we look forward to seeing him Christen Lee provided an education- ing to have installed in September. Communities Unlimited co-hosted al booth at this event that September is always a busy month a Decentralized Wastewater Train- talked to the public about with Cultural Week and Pow-Wow. ing/Class at the Bearskin Health the importance of protect- On Sept. 7, Janice Wilson and & Wellness Center. This training ing our waters and the Braulio Ramirez had an education taught valuable information about surrounding watershed. booth at the Eastern Shawnee Water the proper maintenance of private as Festival. Their booth provided envi- well as municipal septic systems. During the week of Aug. ronmental information about water 13-17, Jon Quick and quality to over 600 students from Services Provided Braulio Ramirez traveled several local area schools. • Private Well Drinking Water to Spokane, Wash., for Sampling the 2018 Tribal Lands Our water technicians were busy • Private Home Owners Septic Forum. During this with end of the summer season Asssessments Forum they both attended • Lost Creek Recycle field trips and breakout Center

Courtesy Photos Department Contacts: (Pictured Left) Summer Kathleen Welch (Env. intern Devon Rutledge Department Manager) works with Kathy Welch (918) 678-6335 and Braulio Ramirez on a Janice Wilson (Env. bio-assessment on Mason Technician) (918) 678- Valley Creek. 6345 Jon Quick (Recycling) (Pictured Right) Janice (918) 678-6352 Wilson and Christen Lee Braulio Ramirez (Env. provided an educational Technician) (918) 678- booth at the Shoal Creek 6396 Water Festival. Page 18 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia November 2018 Tribal Department Reports Important Numbers

Police Department Faron Lee (918) 678-3100x12 [email protected]

Family Services / Enrollment / Tags Dana Butterfield (918) 678-6319 [email protected] School Supplies/Winter Clothing Leeanna Radabaugh, 918-678-6329, lradabaugh@ wyandotte-nation.org Domestic Violence Advocate/Educator, Lisa Arnold, 918-678-6324, lisaarnold@wyandotte- nation.org Tribal Social Workers Tara Gragg (918) 678-6355 [email protected] Tiffany Garner (918) 678-6353 [email protected]

Human Resources Deana Howard (918) 678-6320 [email protected] Nutrition & Caregiver Services Brenda House (918) 678-6327 [email protected] Education / Library / Child Care Photos by William Swaim Tammy Charles (918) 678-6330 (Pictured Above) Vendors discuss various health [email protected] issues with citizens. (Below) Duke Mason provides 17th Annual Health Fair Historical the entertainment. Sherri Clemons (918) 678-6344 The Bearskin Healthcare & Wellness Center [email protected] hosted its annual Health Fair Friday, Oct. 19, in the Environmental / Planning / Development Fitness Center gym. Those attending the event were Christen Lee (918) 678-6341 treated to food, FREE health screenings, flu shots, [email protected] door prizes, vendors, and special entertainment from Housing Duke Mason. In addition, a fun walk was held and Kathy DeWeese (918) 678-6339 the first 50 finishers received a T-shirt. [email protected] The health screenings addressed: Cholesterol, glucose, basic pulmonary functioning, bone density, visual acuity, glaucoma, and blood pressure. Bearskin Healthcare & Sponsors of the event include: Wyandotte Nation, Wellness Center Eastern Shawnee Tribe, Nation, Ottawa Kelly Friend (918) 678-3259 Tribe, Peoria Tribe, Senior Companions, Grand Gate- [email protected] way, Nation, Quaker Hill, Good Shepherd Clinic Appointments Hospice, Oklahoma Lions Service Foundation, and Linda Coatney (918) 678-3228 the Alzheimer's Association. [email protected] Dental / Vision Jade Robertson, 918-678-3221, [email protected] Tribal Heritage Pharmacy (call-in only) of the outside events but it held off Pow-Wow was a reminder we can’t (918) 678-3244 Submitted by Sherri Clemons, for the cemetery tours and memorial control the weather. We did move Fitness Center Tribal Heritage Director walk, which was nice. This may have inside Friday evening for contest Sharon Bartley (918) 678-3231 been the first trip to Wyandotte for and social dancing. It worked out [email protected] September is a busy but wonderful some citizens and we hope you and well. Saturday we were back out to Contract Health time at the Wyandotte Nation, and your family enjoyed your visit. Maybe the grounds. We dealt with some Bridget Burleson (918) 678-3227 this year was just as exciting as ever. you went to a place you had always misty weather through the day but [email protected] ‘Gathering’ is always fun. The Com- heard about while growing up around not enough to stop the dance. The Diabetes Clinic mittee had several new projects for your grandparents. Maybe you found temperatures were not bad. Next year everyone to work on and even work on Donna Spaulding (918) 678-3258 a grave of a loved one and told your will be the 30th, and the prize money projects from the past. children about them. Whatever your will be $50,000 so it should be a great [email protected] The weather played a factor in all path crossed I hope you felt welcomed. Pow-Wow. Hope to see everyone there. November 2018 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 19 Tribal Department Reports Housing Planning & Development Submitted by Kathy DeWeese, now on the website. If you are and septic program is avail- Housing Director interested in rental units, please able on a first come first serve Submitted by Christen Lee, En- submit an application. Proof of basis. If you are in need of a vironmental & Planning Director The Heritage Acres Community income, and a copy of your tribal well or septic and live within our continues to grow. There are 16 card will need to be submitted with Oklahoma service are, contact The department is currently senior duplexes, as well as four the application. Federal income our office for more information. working on surveying the Pow-Wow family duplexes, and 12 three- guidelines are followed. We look forward to hearing from grounds and collecting other infor- bedroom homes located here. A The Community Center is open you. mation to put the fee to trust pack- new senior duplex will be built daily from 8am - 4:30pm. Pool age together to submit to the BIA. this year. tables, a ping pong table, and Department Staff: The Bureau of Land Management is If you are looking to purchase air hockey are available for use. Kathy DeWeese - Housing reviewing the survey. The 81-acre a home within a 50-mile radius The cost of renting the center on Director property known as William Bearskin of our tribal headquarters, are a evenings and weekends is $50 for Valari Richards - Housing Tract 1 was awarded Trust land first time homebuyer and qualify tribal citizens, and $75 for non- Specialist status this quarter. This property for a conventional loan, check out tribal, with a $25 cleaning deposit. Don Graham - Residential is located off South Highway 10. It our down payment assistance. Several dates have already been Maintenance Technician contains one small rental house, Applicants must qualify by federal booked. Drew Lankford - Housing four farm ponds and several acres income guidelines. This is a first If you are interested in renting, Facilities Technician of woods and fenced grazing lands. come first serve program. contact the housing office. Levi Griffin - Project Coordinator Staff continue to update all trust All housing applications are The Indian Health Service well Paul Parker - Project Coordinator land leases. The Properties Man- ager continues to update the rental houses. The Department is currently work- ing on seven construction projects for the Wyandotte Nation. The Tribal road and Storm water improvement on Rd 645 next to the casino was bid out and awarded to Kings Construc- tion. This project will start soon and have a four-month completion timeframe. The water line project on State line road continues. The Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) was filed in September. The Tribe has received no comments on this document yet. The public has until Oct. 9 to reply, then we will file for a release of funds. Work continues to complete the last three leases/Right of ways for this project. The Engineer has sub- mitted the permit request to ODEQ for this project. The Environmental Department is currently working on the EA for the Bearskin Fitness Center remodel. This process normally takes 30 days. The Engineer is working on the ODEQ/EPA permit to remodel the well house for this project. The Tribe has two projects on 137 Rd: the first is the Housing Depart- ments and we are working on the Environmental Assessment at this time. The second is housing that will be open to the public. The Tribe is also working on building rental units on the 35 acres next to the casino. Both of these projects are still in the Planning stages. The last project we are working on is parking for Heritage Acres Park. A closed bid took place in late Septem- ber/early October. We hope to start this project at the same time as the 645 Rd project. Page 20 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia November 2018 New Tribal Citizen Enrollment

Almaraz, Juan James Delo, Nancy Maureen Koon, Kanan Nicholas George Spencer, Samuel Ronan Ballard Jr., Michael Lloyd Dennis, Odin Kane Landers, Jacob Lane Steele, William Maxwell Barkley, Audrey Grace Duffy, Lana Mae Landers, Joshua Lee Stevens, Jax Coe Beck, Hunter Thomas Eckhart, Evan John Lawson, Fletcher Elliott Stevens, Ryan Alexandria Beesley, Joshua Cole Eckhart, Zane Jason Lewis, Joyce Aubrey Stone, Eliza Corrine Birchfield, Axel Gray Ediger, Rose EllieSue Lollis, Holly Lynn Taylor, Kathy Lynne Casey Bitter, Keara Rose Edwards, Kynleigh Faith Markwell, Reese Amelia Thomas, Mary Marklee Boomer, Wilder Tate Enyart, Jalin Keith Martarano, Donovan Carmillo-Gary Thompson, London Sixx Botts, Carter Wade Enyart, Keith Edward Mathis, Brayden Taylor Trim, Christian Montgomery Botts, Dek'Lynn Grace Enyart, Kyah Lynn Mathis, Dana Michelle Trim, Jonathan Tailor Bowman, Rennyson Volz Evans, Parker Maverick Mattox, Dustin Emerson Tripp, Brynn Elizabeth Boyles, Elliot Van Fallis, Ettalyn Rose Mattox, Erica Jean Tripp, Hailey Quinn Boyles, Sophie Lyn Frame Jr., William Joseph McCloud, Rachelle Lynn Tyrrell, Ashley Alyce Boynton, Harley Ahn Friberg, Hudson George McCullum, Paisley Elizabeth Anne Underwood, Brooklynn Joyce Brewer, Coldyn Michael Wayne Friend, Dyani Hurit McLaughlin, Sophia Nicole Uribe, Shilo Alonzo Brown, Kapri Livianna Garner, Caroline Rose McQuistion, Keegan Garrett Leon Vaughan, Landon Blaze Brumble, Lynnlee Dawn Gibbs, Amanda Bailey Montgomery, Kimberly Dee Vowels, Bailee Elizabeth Bunch, Sienna Marie Gibbs, Colin Michael Moody, Josephine Rae Athena Vowels, Coy Shawn Burnette, Flynn Allan Goddard, Seira Darline Moody, Victoria Elizabeth Nancy Vowels, Dwight Shawn Butler, Aubree Leah Graham, Brayden David Morgan, Remington Alexandre Watters, Easton Ryan Buzzard, Thea Annabelle Graham, Olivia Mae Nance, Evianne Lee Watters, Emersen Grace Campbell, Dahlyiah Faith Greenhaw, Xaedee Inez Nelson, Harper Jane Watters, Tyler James Campbell, Gage Matthew Handley, Magenta Sunrise Melinda Nesvold, Charles Edward Watts, Bobby Allen Campbell, Shileigh Echo Handley, Veronica Elyse Nesvold, Logan Ann Webster, Brooks Tyler Cardwell, Khloe Brooke Hankins, Jack Harrison Nichols, Jasmine Marie Weeks, Charlotte Weslee Chartrand, Henry Esco Hankins, Katherine Rose Padilla, Garrett Weisinger, Johnny Tyler Chernick, Danielle Kaia Harris III, John James Poole, Remington Ray Weisinger, Khloe Dawn Chernick, Rachel Mariel Harris, Harley Keith Porter, Landon Gray Weisinger, Mitchell Quaid Chittum, Karter Jacob Hart, Gemma Quinn Powell, Lakelyn Rose Werntz II, Douglas Franklin Clark, Orion Paul Haverty, Caprice Dianne Powell, River Grace Werntz, Davis Lee Clubb, Jaxton Phoenix Hinds, Addison Adele Raymond, Makk James Werntz, Denise Carla Clubb, Jayden Scott Hoag, Carter Ryan Reinhardt, Caden Michael Williams, Connor Lee Clubb, Juliette Ann-Marie Huerta, Emma Marie Rieck, Shepherd Jonathan Williams, Kyler James Colbert, Leonia Denise Isaia-Maggio, Lesley Diane Rogers, Audrey Rebecca Yzaguirre, Charlotte Josie Conrow, Aaliyah Renee Rose Jackson, Jason Allen Rychak, Charles Kenneth Zumwalt-Adams, Alannah Renee Cookinham, Eleanor June Jackson, Ty Rae Ryser, Rowan Hutch Cooper, Gabriel Paul Jeans, Addyson Grey Schultz, Raelynn Amy Cooper, Matthew Woodrow Johnson, Raiden David Scoggins, Raelyn O'Neill Cox, Ashley Marissa Jones, Adalyn Elise Shideler, Austin Curtis Cox, Brittany Alexandria Jones, IndieRose Shideler, Bryce Alan Patrick 173 Cox, Primrose Eve Jumper, Bradley Kenton Shipley, Braxton Scott New Tribal Citizens Crawford, Jaron Paul Karr, Peyton John Slayton, Andi Wren Crawford, Marcus Daniel King, Harrison Tyler Smith, Emily Ray 6,425 Cuevas, Jacob Alexander King, Jacob Aaron Smith, Ryder Dudley Total Tribal Enrollment Delo, Keira Kathleen Kite, Theodore Rex Soutee, Ethan Wiley Delo, Kyle Stephen Kneese, Alan Michael South, Killian Michael

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