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

MAY 1, 2020 | “KE HVSE” MULBERRY MONTH | VOL. 50, ISSUE 9

COVID-19 SHORT CHANGES HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS GRADUATING SENIORS ARE MISSING OUT ON SCHOOL MEMORIES LIKE PROM AND GRADUATION

Morgan Taylor REPORTER

SACRAMENTO, California-The last year in high school is an important part of life where students make final memo- ries together and experience major changes as they plan for the next step. But for one Mus- cogee (Creek) citizen, those final high school memories were cut short. Kyren Whitton is a high school senior at Grant Union High School in Sacramento, California. Whitton has been Legal services continue to operate on emergency basis with limited staff due to COVID-19. out of school and school activ- (MN File Photo) ities for about a month and a half and is missing out on his final days of high school and MCN COURTS CONTINUE the events that most seniors look forward too. He and Seniors just like him are a gen- COVID-19 LIMITED ACCESS eration missing a milestone MCN DISTRICT COURTS SOCIAL DISTANCING due to COVID-19. Whitton kept busy in high REMAINS IN PLACE UNTIL MAY 4, CLE CANCELLED school by playing on the foot- Angel Ellis 30 days from the date of this order,’ ball and wrestling teams and REPORTER documents said. working as a member of the The latest administrative order Pictured above is Kyren Whitton, a Muscogee (Creek) Citizen and high school senior yearbook club and school was issued from the Court on April missing out on milestones due to COVID-19. (Submission) news, all while taking college OKMULGEE, Oklahoma– The 20. It said that the Court would con- preparation courses and main- Muscogee (Creek) Nation District tinue operating with a reduced staff taining a 4.0 GPA. money.” nication with the closure of Court has expanded previous orders and with special operating hours. “Right before school shut Whitton said during his academic institutions. He has issued limiting court operations ‘The court is presently operat- down, we were getting fitted for time at home he is trying to applied to a few different col- due to COVID-19. Now the orders ing on reduced staff hours, 9 a.m. our tuxedos for prom.” Whit- focus on working on college leges in his area and plans on made back on March 17, will remain to 1 p.m.,’ the order said. ‘There will ton said. “I’m glad we hadn’t preparation although he has applying to more. in effect until May 4. In May, the only be one Clerk present to protect ordered them yet because it little guidance and commu- Court will re-examine whether or the Clerks safety so delays may be would have been a waste of SENIOR– 2 not to reopen all services based on expected in answering and respond- the Nation’s directives for public ing to calls.’ safety. At this time, the Mound build- The order limits court functions ing where court proceedings are to emergency protection orders, held remains closed to the public. emergency temporary restrain- If emergency filings are needed, the ing orders, and initial appearances, party may contact the Court at 918- arraignments, bond hearings, and 758-1400. other hearings necessary for due Those needing emergency assis- process. tance are encouraged to contact the ‘In any civil case, the statute of limitations shall be extended for COURTS– 2

Whitney Mayhew takes a moment to have her picture taken with Principal Chief David Hill after paving the way for a new maternity leave policy. (Submission) MAYHEW PAVES THE WAY FOR MOTHERS MAYHEW WORKED DIRECTLY WITH PRINCIPAL CHIEF DAVID HILL TO MAKE NEW POLICY POSSIBLE Morgan Taylor needed to be with my newborn orated on the particulars to set which was causing me additional the policy in place. Mayhew REPORTER MCN provides resources to help students stay sharp during the extended summer break. stress about missing work,” said researched to see what other (MN File Photo) OKMULGEE, Oklahoma– His- Mayhew. tribes had in place for the same tory has been made at Mus- The Maternity Leave Poli- type of policy. In her research, cogee Creek Nation as the first cy’s purpose is to help relieve Mayhew found that only one MCN ROLLS OUT CULTURAL ever Maternity Leave Policy has the stress of the new parent by other tribe in the state offered been established and pioneered giving a full eight weeks of paid this kind of leave, Cherokee DISTANCE LEARNING PLATFORM by MCN Executive Legislative leave. Nation. Mayhew referenced NEW DISTANCE LEARNING PLATFORM HELPS BRIDGE Assistant of the Principal Chief, “I submitted the proposal to their policy when crafting her Whitney Mayhew. bring awareness and help other own model. GAP DURING EXTENDED SUMMER BREAK FOR STUDENTS Mayhew worked directly employees that may have to rely “We couldn’t be prouder of with Principal Chief David Hill on leave to offset the burden this new policy, especially since Angel Ellis help keep skills sharp during on the creation of this policy by and stress of financial wor- it came from one employee’s per- REPORTER their prolonged absence from using her own experiences as ries during the most essential sonal experience as a mother,” school. The Native EDGE-Dis- a mother. Mayhew worked for time of being with their child,” said Principal Chief David Hill. tance Learning Platform went MCN during a pregnancy and Mayhew said. “I hope this is a “This is an administration that OKMULGEE, Oklahoma– live on April 6. birth of her child while there step that can help not just moth- listens to, and values its employ- The Muscogee (Creek) Nation’s According to the Federal was no maternity leave in place. ers but entire families by helping ees. We want an atmosphere Education Development and Programs Administrator of the Whitney said she had a them be there for the moments where ideas and input can flow Administration program has Department of Education and bad experience and wanted to that matter most.” freely to this office.” rolled out a distance learn- Training Sarah Price, the new change that for others by being At the beginning of Chief According to Press Secretary ing platform for students who platform can be used to help the pioneer for this policy. Hill’s administration, MCN Jason Salsman, this policy was may need extra resources to “I was in a situation where I HR, Chief and Mayhew collab- put into place immediately. NATIVE EDGE– 2

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BACONE COLLEGE AWARDED FUNDS NATIONAL SOCIETY DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION AWARDS $95K

Morgan Taylor gram that we have reinstated. REPORTER She came to me with the idea of the funding available. She MUSKOGEE, Oklahoma - was our voice and nominated Bacone College was awarded Bacone. This specific chair is $95,000 in support from the this American Indian Educa- National Society Daughters of tion chair of the DAR and they the American Revolution, an are the ones who are support- organization with a long history ing Bacone.” of supporting Bacone College, Bacone College School during the NSDAR’s April exec- of Indian Art was recently utive board meeting recently. awarded $25,000 to offer five National Chair of the DAR’s Bacone art students $5,000 art American Indian Committee scholarships for the 2020-2021 Suzanne Heske visited Bacone school year. “Much grateful- College during the fall of 2019. ness is extended to the NSDAR She subsequently made a pre- and especially their chair of sentation to the NSDAR’s exec- the American Indian Commit- utive committee to request tee, Suzanne Heske, who cham- Pictured left to right are Bacone Art Director Gerald Cournoyer, National Chair of the DAR’s American Indian Committee Suzanne Heske and their financial support of pioned our cause and helped Bacone President Ferlin Clark during Heske’s visit to the Bacone Campus last fall. (Submission) Bacone College. these scholarships become “The NSDAR has always reality,” Art Director Gerald men’s and women’s dormitories so thankful to the NSDAR for repairs this will address which supported Bacone. When Cournoyer said. “I’m excited to at Bacone College and granted their contributions and prayers will hopefully allow our stu- Suzanne Heske visited campus be able to offer five School of the request of the Junior Mem- they have offered to Bacone dents to gain a greater sense in the fall, she loved what we Indian Art students these sub- bership Committee to ‘provide College.” Said Harjo. of pride in their school. We were doing here and the mis- stantial scholarships to help support of Bacone College.’ “We are extremely grate- cannot thank the NSDAR and sion we are pursuing,” said them further their studies.” “This is huge for our stu- ful for these donations, espe- Ms. Heske enough.” Bacone College Vice President In addition, the board ‘allo- dents. Upgrading the dorms cially during these challenging Future students who wish of Student Affairs Kaila Harjo. cated $70,000 from the Eleanor allows the students to be more times we are all enduring,” said to attend the historic Bacone “She wanted to know how M. Stolle Fund for repair of the comfortable while away from Bacone College President Dr. College School of Indian Art can the Daughters help. She HVAC system in the men’s dor- home, both physically and Ferlin Clark. “Five art students should contact Art Director toured the dorms that needed mitory and repair/painting/ emotionally, and it benefits will be blessed by scholarships, Gerald Cournoyer at cournoy- upgrades and the art pro- maintenance of the both the our recruitment efforts. We are and there are much-needed [email protected]

Native Edge lose ground in the summer- Civilized tribes’ curriculum Continued from Page 1 time.” with a consultant, but we had to Resources can be found for halt that so that we could pro- LETTER TO THE EDITOR keep students sharp and ready students in the form of age-ap- vide this supplemental distance to transition back to the class- propriate lessons, activities and learning resource.” room when the time comes. educational videos. She said that these develop- Dear Editor; tribal court. Especially, the “One of the biggest barriers This evolving platform pro- ing resources could someday be I recently sent an email to Bruner matter. Mr. Bruner is to students right now are neces- vides distance learning access used as a class on their own. all the NC Representatives entitled to a fair and speedy sities like food and finances for and resources, indigenous “We could have something regarding Jeremy D. Pittman’s trial in accordance wit the 6th their families,” Price said. “We learning videos, parent and that could be a curriculum in nomination to serve as a Dis- Amendment of the U.S. Con- are being sensitive to the fact teacher resources, and more. a high school class,” Price said. trict Trial Court Judge of the stitution and MCNA Title 14, that some families are focusing For students, the materials “It builds in structure for learn- District Trial Court Civil Divi- sec. 1-303 (F). on trying to feed their students are organized in elementary, ing activities for individuals sion of the Muscogee (Creek) Failure by this Council to through this.” middle school, and high school and for small groups.” Nation that was sponsored by appointment a Civil Judge Price said there is evi- grade levels. She said she hopes these les- Patrick Freeman. may jeopardize Bruner’s case dence that shows students can The shortened school year sons bring students an intrinsic This correspondence is not by virtue of a dismissal of all lose mastery of many of the and closing of public resources motivation to participate and directed to the NC Representa- charges and may jeopardize skills learned during a typical such as libraries brought about see themselves as tribal citizens. tives who voted in favor of Pitt- any criminal or civil cases summer. That is why the extra the urgent need to give students “As we go through this, we man’s nomination. This corre- pending in tribal court. enrichment resources were access to learning resources. are focused on building part- spondence is directed to the 7 In this citizens opinion made a priority. “We have been working nerships that help acculturate NC Representatives who voted (my opinion only) is that the “There is a big concern right through a Native studies cur- these students back to us.” no on the legislation to appoint majority of the council mem- now that there could be a down- riculum that we are creating for Parents, students and teach- Mr. Pittman. Those voting are: bers objecting, or voting no, fall in learning from now until high school,” Price said. “We ers can access the learning James Jennings, Adam Jones to Mr. Pittman’s appointment the time the students go back are compiling some Muscogee materials on www.mcnstep. III, Anna Marshall, Darrell may (I said may) be siding with to school.” Price said. “Students (Creek), Seminole, and Five com. Proctor, Lucian Tiger III, Mary individuals who do not want Crawford and Joyce Deere. any criminal cases to go for- Below is what I sent via ward and hope their cases are Courts orders regarding such filings will The 18th Annual Doing Busi- email to all NC Representa- to be dismissed on the “speedy Continued from Page 1 not be set until after the Court ness in Indian Country has been tives. trial” protections. reopens post-pandemic emer- canceled. Those who had paid Dear MCN Reps; In repeating Travis Scott’s MCN Lighthorse police depart- gency,’ the order said. ‘Except fees for the conference will be I received the April statement “I made my vote ment, or the Family Violence Pre- upon extraordinary grant of the refunded. 15th edition of The Mvskoke based on the performance of vention Program or Children and Judge assigned, any responses to The orders asked that those News wherein the paper head- Jeremy Pittman with respect to Family Services. such filings are tolled till further seeking a refund be understanding lined that “Judicial Nomina- the position, not personal feel- Attorneys are still able to file notice of the Court.’ as the MCN Finance Department tion Rejected by Council”. ings or someone influencing non-emergency matters by digi- ‘Such a grant will not be lightly is also operating on reduced staff. The appointment of Jeremy my vote.” tal or mail only with arrangements given.’ ‘The Court will look at the T. Pittman to serve as a Dis- Mr. Pittman is well quali- for payment of any filing fees upon The order said agreed to orders feasibility of a one-day fall CLE trict Court Judge of the Dis- fied to be appointed to serve consultation with the court clerk. of parties will be allowed and dependent on River Spirit Casino trict Court Civil Division of as District Court Judge of the ‘However, any hearing or encouraged. availability. the MCN was submitted by the District Trial Court Civil Divi- Office of the Principal Chief sion of the Muscogee (Creek) and received a do pass in the Nation. Senior with no place to go that is safe. uation ceremony. March 23rd Business, Finance I invite those National Continued from Page 1 “Not only do I have to worry But no one is quite certain if & Justice Committee. Pitt- Council members who voted about my health at this time it will happen or what may be man’s appointment required a no to not appoint Mr. Pittman According to a recent story but my physical safety as well,” going on when it comes time for two-thirds approval from the as District Court Judge speak published in the LA Times, Cal- Kyren said. “I haven’t really been graduation. full council. openly regarding their objec- ifornia has close to 36,000 con- out of my house since school shut “If this graduation really The measure failed by a tions to the appointment or it firmed positive cases of COVID- down. This has been an overall happens or when this is all over, vote of 8 for and 7 against the can be surmised that an out- 19, and more than1300 deaths. bad experience as a senior.” I’m going straight to college and appointment. Dear NC Repre- side influence enhanced their Whitton said he has seen a Whitton said depending getting started on my basics,” sentatives; vote. I await your response. rise in crime in his area due to on the school district and the said Whitton. “I’m ready to get The appointment of a civil Sincerely, students being out of school mayor, the school may be able to some work done and move past judge is paramount to move Rick Wide with nothing to do and some rent out a facility to hold a grad- all of this.” pressing cases forward in Tulsa THE MVSKOKE MEDIA The Mvskoke News is an editorially independent publication. Its purpose is to meet the needs of the tribe and its citizens through the Rita Courtwright, Managing Editor | [email protected] dissemination of information. Reprint permission is granted with credit Like MM on Facebook: to The Mvskoke News unless other copyrights are shown. Editorial statements appearing in The Mvskoke News, guest columns Angel Ellis, Reporter/Layout | [email protected] Facebook.com/MvskokeMedia and readers’ letters reflect the opinion of the individual writer and not Follow MM on Twitter: those of The Mvskoke News, its advisors or the tribal administration Lani Hansen, Reporter | [email protected] @MvskokeMedia and are subject to editorial discretion. Editorials and letters must be signed by the individual writer and include a traceable address or Morgan Taylor, Reporter | [email protected] Follow MM on Instagram: @MvskokeMedia phone number to be considered for publication. Please contact our office for deadline of submissions to be considered for inclusion. The Jerrad Moore, Multi-Media Producer | [email protected] Visit MM online at: Mvskoke News reserves the right to edit all submissions for space, style MvskokeMedia.com and grammar. 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Lani Hansen Nation requires students com- eggs, hot or cold food are not REPORTER pleting degrees in certain areas allowed, only boxed or canned to complete a Project Manage- food items. OKMULGEE, Oklahoma– ment Course. This course offers “I’ve cleaned out my pantry and A little free pantry has been set real world experience to students took stuff that I haven’t even seen up in Hawthorne Park by the to work within their degree fields in a while and started the initial primary school in Okmulgee. and their communities to offer donation with those items,” Taylor Morgan Taylor, a student assistance on things that they find said. at the College of Muscogee important. Due to COVID-19 she was Nation, and newest member of “I think Morgan has done a unable to do a lot of advertising for Mvskoke Media’s news team, great job with her project manage- her project, so she posted what she has always had a passion for ment by creating something that is was doing on Social Media. helping with community ser- beneficial to her community,” said “I got a lot of feedback and many vice projects. CMN Tribal Servies Instructor people shared my post,” Talor said. Taylor had been volunteering Mackie Moore. “It even came about “Rusty Milroy with Mabrey Bank with Linda Cope at the Cross Town during an amazing time when a lot wants to fund a box for me, and Food Pantry and knew immedi- fo people are in need during this try to help me get something going ately what she wanted to do for her pandemic.” where we can do this in different final school project. “The Tribal Leadership Circle communities.” “I had already known I wanted at the college is going to be the ones Taylor lives down the road from to do this little food pantry box,” to take over filling this box after I where she set up the little food Taylor said. “I feel like it’s a good graduate. They will take the dona- pantry box, so she can check on it way for people to donate and to tion and buy groceries to take to the daily. She has noticed people have reach out to people who need it, it is box as needed,” Taylor explained. been taking goods from the pantry. right in the middle of the commu- Taylor hopes that the little “It’s right in the middle of the nity and always available.” pantry food box will be self sus- park where kids go, and so I leave The little food pantry box is taining for many years. little snacks in there as well when now open for anyone who willing “It should be able to self-sustain I can,” Taylor said. to donate or for someone in need. by people donating to it and by the The little food pantry box Taylor’s box is funded by Okmul- little bit of funds that are allocated is available to anyone in need, gee Service League, she presented for it,” Taylor said. and for anyone who is willing to her project to them where they The little food pantry box is donate. It is located at Hawthorne approved to fund her $100 annu- located in a park so Taylor asked Park, North Okmulgee Avenue The little free pantry box is set up in Hawthorne Park for the public. It is open 24/7. ally. for those donating to only donate and West Fairfax Street, Okmul- (Morgan Taylor) The College of the Muscogee non-perishable food items. Milk, gee, OK.

CITIZEN ON TRACK TO BE FRONT COURT STAR IN TEXAS MCN YOUTH HAS THE POTENTIAL TO MAKE IT BIG

Morgan Taylor then he led a winning team. ington. ‘For stretches I thought REPORTER It was this last basketball I was looking at a young Isaiah season that he assisted the team Austin. Onwuchekwa will con- DALLAS, Texas – Not too far in winning the first city champi- tend for the number one spot in from the Muscogee Creek Nation onship title in 25 years. the national 2024 rankings when resides a young citizen and rising “This season was really a this is all said and done. I’ve basketball star that has been rec- turning point for. It was really heard from Texas, UCLA, Texas ognized all over the Lone Star exciting to watch him. The team Tech, Baylor, and SMU since film State by many different recruit- just kept winning and winning,” was released from camp. This ers for his amazing talent on the said Jones. “He was one of the few young prospect can be one of the front court. His name, Doryan eighth graders selected to partic- best to ever come out of this city. Onwuchekwa. ipate in a local high school bas- He has all the tools and only time Doryan stands six foot eight ketball camp. The camp is for will tell. Top 30 All-Star Game inches tall at just 13 years-old. He recruiters and scouts to know Selection.’ is in the eighth grade at J.L. Long who to watch for and keep tabs TB5reports is designed to Middle School, graduating class on the top youth basketball play- be a bridge for college coaches of 2024. In Dallas where he plays ers in the area.” to identify prospects and build for the middle school basketball Onwuchekwa had success at a platform for prospects to team Doryan also plays for other a camp called The Next Wave. better further support academic traveling basketball teams. He According to Wings and Bigs and athletic achievement. The started playing for the middle Show Productivity and Prom- TB5Reports hosts camps and school team in the seventh grade ise at The Next Wave, made by reports on local up and coming but it was his eighth grade season sports reporter Kellen C. Buff- basketball players. Doryan Onwuchekwa attended a scouting camp where he received many recognitions. that showed lots of promise as he ington at www.thetb5reports. Owuchekwa left people with (Submission) played on a traveling team that com, ‘Onwuchekwa was clearly a lot to say about him after won a National title in Portland, the number one prospect of the the camp. Director of Scout- he’s in the mold of a modern-day in the action. The southwest Oregon. camp...’ ing/Recruiting at Spencer Pull- forward capable of playing in the prospect’s national status will Colby Jones, mother of ‘The six-foot eight forward iam Basketball Consulting and paint as well as extending his continue to ascend.’ Onwuchekwa, said he has was just on a different level. a host of The Next Wave basket- game to the perimeter. He has The Next Wave Recruit- played basketball his whole life He scored over both shoulders, ball camp, Spencer Pulliam said, elite defensive tools when con- ers and scouts have said that but really started to get into the dunked in traffic, showed touch ‘The next potential front court sidering his length, timing, and Onwunchekwa has what it takes development of the sport in the around the rim, made threes, star in the Lone Star state is six- quickness of the floor. As he to be the top player in the state sixth grade. At that time, he had and handled the ball like a true foot eight Doryan Onwunche- demonstrates a consistent motor and nation at merely 13 years of played in a mini-league but even wing in the half court,’ said Buff- kwa. Both athletic and skilled, and remains constantly engaged age.

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A Muscogee (Creek) Nation National Council Land, Natural Resources and Cultural Preser- vation Committee meeting was held April 14 via Teleconference. (MN File Photo) TWIN HILLS WALKING TRAIL RESOLUTION PASSED COMMITTEE WAGONER COUNTY ONGOING PROJECT WAS APPROVED Lani Hansen Lucian Tiger III. Passed 4-0. REPORTER The memorandum will allow the Nation to use interest funds OKMULGEE, Oklahoma — A that Twin Hills recieved to repair Muscogee (Creek) Nation National the Twin Hills Walking Trail. Council Land, Natural Resources TR 20-077 Execute a memo- MCGIRT Case set for oral argument before the United States Supreme Court in May. (Shutterstock) and Cultural Preservation Commit- randum of agreement with Wag- tee meeting was held April 14. oner County for improvements to All passed legislation will go Oneta Road. Sponsored by Joseph MCGIRT VS. OKLAHOMA SET FOR MAY before the full Council during the Hicks, Co-Sponsor Charles CMN STUDENT HOPES PROJECT TO COMBAT HUNGER BECOMES SELF SUSTAINED IN COMMUNITY regular session April 25. McHenry. Passed 4-0. LNC addressed the following The memorandum for an Angel Ellis Chickasaw Nation were among tered on the tribe’s reservation legislation, the interpretation of ongoing project in Wagoner REPORTER several entities submitting briefs status. In 2018, the tribe awaited which is attributed to language in County will allow the Nation to to the United States Supreme the opinion in the Murphy case, a the bills: furnish and complete the rights- WASHINGTON–The Mus- Court on Feb. 11. The briefs were similar land reservation question. TR 20-075 Execute a memoran- of-way for the project. cogee (Creek) Nation’s jurisdic- all provided as impartial advisors The high court did not render dum of agreement with the City of TR 20-078 Execute a memo- tional boundaries question raised on the McGirt appeal case. an opinion. Instead, on Dec. 4, Holdenville for improvements to randum of agreement with the in the United States Supreme The McGirt case is an appeal 2018, the court directed the par- Adams Street and S. Echo Street. City of Okemah for improve- Court (USSC) in the McGirt vs. to the supreme court by Jimcy ties, Solicitor General and Mus- Sponsored by Thomasene Yahola ments to the Okemah Commu- Oklahoma case will have oral McGirt, who is currently serv- cogee (Creek) Nation to submit Osborn. Passed 4-0. nity Center Road. Sponsored by arguments in May according to a ing two 500-year sentences and supplemental briefs addressing The memorandum will allow Charles McHenry. Passed 4-0. press release issued April 13. a life without parole sentence for two more questions for the court. the Nation to repair the two city The memorandum will allow The high court originally set first-degree rape by instrumenta- McGirt’s case presents the streets Adams and S. Echo in part the Nation to repair the Okemah the hearing for Apr. 21. How- tion, lewd molestation and forc- opportunity for all nine justices of the Maintenance Overlay Proj- Community Center Road using ever, alternative processes became ible sodomy after former convic- to hear and give an opinion on the ect. funding from the Tribal Trans- necessary the United States dealt tions of a felony. matter. In the last session, Justice TR 20-076 Execute a memoran- portation Program Interest with the COVID-19 public health According to MCN’s brief, Neil Gorsuch did not participate dum of agreement with the Twin Funds. crisis. ‘The Muscogee (Creek) Nation in the Murphy case opinion leav- Hills School District for the Twin For audio of committee meet- ‘In keeping with public health (“Nation” or “Creek Nation”) had ing eight justices to hear the case. Hills walking trail. Sponsored by ings visit: www.mcnnc.com guidance in response to COVID- no role in the genesis of this litiga- McGirt’s appeal argues that 19, the Justices and counsel will all tion, but now finds its Reservation the state did not have the authority participate remotely,’ the release under direct attack.’ to convict him, that federal courts said. ‘The Court anticipates pro- ‘Oklahoma has claimed that should have handled the jurisdic- viding a live audio feed of these the Nation never enjoyed an tion due to the fact the crime took arguments to news media.’ Indian Territory Reservation and place within tribal jurisdiction ‘Details will be shared as they that, if it did, the allotment of boundaries. become available.’ lands to Nation citizens and the The question posed in the McGirt along with nine other coming of statehood abolished it Murphy case asks the court, cases will be set for oral argu- – despite clear treaty and statutory ‘Whether the 1866 territorial ments on May 4, 5, 6, 11, 12, and text to the contrary,’ MCN brief boundaries of the Creek Nation 13. It is not yet clear which of the said. ‘The Nation files this brief to within the former Indian Terri- calendar dates will be set aside for vindicate its core sovereign inter- tory of eastern Oklahoma consti- which cases. ests in its treaty-guaranteed Res- tute an ‘Indian reservation’ today The MCN was not the only ervation.’ under 18 USC. § 1151(a).’ Oklahoma tribe to submit a brief This is the second round of Mvskoke Media will continue in the case. The MCN, Chero- legal documents submitted by the to follow this case and provide kee Nation, Choctaw Nation and tribe and supporters in cases cen- updates they become available.

A Muscogee (Creek) Nation National Council Health, Education and Welfare and Land, Natural Resources and Cultural Preservation Committee meeting was held April 21 by teleconference. (MN File Photo) HEALTH DEPARTMENT SEEKS NEW LOCATION JOINT COMMITTEE PASSED LEGISLATION FOR MCN HEALTH DEPARTMENT TO PURCHASE REAL PROPERTY

Lani Hansen Estate contract and Related Doc- REPORTER uments for the purchase of prop- erty in Okmulgee, Oklahoma, OKMULGEE, Oklahoma for the Nation’s Health Depart- — A Muscogee (Creek) Nation ment. Sponsored by James Jen- National Council Health, Edu- nings. Passed 7-0. Absent Joyce cation and Welfare and Land, Deere. Natural Resources and Cultural The Department of Health Preservation Committee meet- has identified some property ing was held April 21. located at 2502 E. 20th Street, All passed legislation will go Okmulgee, Oklahoma. The price FOR MORE INFORMATION: before the full Council during for the two tracts of property is the regular session April 25. $485,000.00, the Department CONTACT TOURISM AND RECREATION HEW/LNC addressed the fol- of Health will pay the price and lowing legislation, the interpreta- additional expenses out of its tion of which is attributed to lan- own funds. guage in the bills: For audio of committee meet- TR 20-079 Execute a Real ings visit: www.mcnnc.com

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from the City of Tulsa, Tulsa Regional Complete Count Com- mittee for the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Community Research and Development Department for the benefit of the Census 2020 proj- ect. Sponsored by Anna Marshall. Passed 3-0. Absent Mary Craw- ford. Funds awarded to Com- munity Research and Devlop- ment Department through Tulsa Regional Count Committee, A Muscogee (Creek) Nation National Council Health, Education and Welfare Committee will be used to do 2020 Census meeting was held April 8 via teleconference. (MN File Photo) activities in various communi- ties. Communites include Tulsa, EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT TO BE Okmulgee, Sapulpa and Coweta. Activites scheduled for April were PLACED UNDER EXECUTIVE BRANCH postponed. NCA 20-023 Amending NATION URGES CITIZENS TO PARTICIPATE IN 2020 MCNCA Title 22, Chapter 9, Enti- tled “Emergency Management CENSUS THROUGH LEGISLATION PASSED IN COMMITTEE Authority.” Sponsored by Anna Lani Hansen (Creek) citizens to participate Marshall. Passed 3-0. Absent REPORTER in the 2020 Census. Sponsored Mary Crawford. by Anna Marshall, Co-Spon- The Emergency Manage- OKMULGEE, Oklahoma sor Lucian Tiger III. Passed 3-0. ment Supervisor role has not Volunteers and employees came together on short notice in order to make it possible for — A Muscogee (Creek) Nation Absent Mary Crawford. been filled. Chief Hill proposed the Muscogee (Creek) Nation to distribute a food donation. (MN File Photo) National Council Health, Edu- A resolution for Muscogee the Emergency Management be cation and Welfare Committee (Creek) citizens and all Native placed under Executive Branch. meeting was held April 8. Americans to participate in The temporary employ- All passed legislation will go the count for the United States ment for clean up purposes con- GOOD FOOD ON GOOD FRIDAY before the full Council during the Census. Most Native Americans ducted by the Construction Ser- CMN PLANS TO CONTINUE WITH SUMMER COURSES regular session April 25. have been undercounted in the vices Department of the Housing HEW addressed the follow- population group in the past. In Department should be coordi- Angel Ellis Nations boundaries. ing legislation, the interpretation order to receive funding for the nated with the Emergency Man- REPORTER MCN Press Secretary Jason of which is attributed to language Nation, citizens must be counted agement Supervisor and the Prin- Salsman said the event was an in the bills: in the 2020 Census. cipal Chief. OKMULGEE, Oklahoma– incredible turn around. TR 20-073 Supporting the 2020 NCA 20-022 Authorizing the For audio of committee meet- Muscogee (Creek) Nation was “We found out the delivery Census and urging Muscogee expenditure of funds awarded ings visit: www.mcnnc.com able to round up volunteers and time on Wednesday afternoon take part in a food distribution and was able to effectively feed Nation authorizing the Princi- partnership that ended up giving 2500 plus with less than two days pal Chief to execute a confiden- fresh produce to approximately prep,” Salsman said. “What an tial settlement agreement and 2,500 Muscogee (Creek) families incredible reflection of the plan- release of claims to settle a dis- on April 10. ning, volunteerism and leadership pute with an individual land- The opportunity to partici- in place to put a plan of action for- owner. Sponsored by Patrick pate was sudden, but Acting MCN ward like that.” Freeman. Do Pass. Cabinet Secretary of Community The University of Arkansas A resolution stating that the and Human Services Shawn Par- Indigenous group reached out Nation has agreed to a settle- tridge planned out the logistics of to tribes for participation in the ment terms with a certain land- distribution in a social distancing food drive supported in conjunc- owner in order to resolve an friendly environment. tion with Wal-Mart, John Christ- underlying dispute with the Food trucks from Walmart ner Trucking who made deliver- individual landowner. unloaded produce at River Spirit ies, and more than 150 Muscogee A Muscogee (Creek) Nation National Business, Justice and Finance Committee meeting NCA 20-026 A law of the where volunteers sorted and dis- (Creek) Volunteers. was held April 16 via teleconference. (MN File Photo) Muscogee (Creek) Nation tributed fresh fruits and vegeta- “When we talk about #OneM- authorizing a supplemental bles to nine different locations vskoke, this is exactly what we COUNCIL POSTPONES BUDGET appropriation to the Muscogee through the Muscogee (Creek) mean,” Salsman said. (Creek) Nation Lighthorse SUPPLEMENT TO LIGHTHORSE Police Department for Fiscal BODY CAM SYSTEM PURCHASE BY LIGHTHORSE year 2020. Sponsored by Robert Huft and co sponsored by Wil- POSTPONED FOR ONE MONTH IN COMMITTEE liam Lowe. The legislation was postponed for one month. Angel Ellis tion of the Muscogee (Creek) The law is an answer to the REPORTER Nation authorizing the Prin- request of the MCN Lighhorse OKMULGEE, Oklahoma cipal Chief to execute a loan Police Department request- — A Muscogee (Creek) Nation guarantee agreement between ing a supplemental appropri- National Council Business, the Mvskoke Loan Fund and ation for the fiscal year 2020 Justice and Finance Commit- the United States Department in the amount of $155,135.00. tee meeting was held April 16 of the Interior. Sponsored by The department received by teleconference. Adam Jones. Do Pass. $82,500.00 for the purpose of All passed legislation went A resolution for Muscogee body cameras. The request for before the full Council during (Creek) Nation allowing the supplemental funds would be the regular session April 25. Mvskoke Loan Fund to enter used to cover the balance of the BFJ addressed the following into a loan guarantee agree- costs associated with the pur- legislation, the interpretation of ment with the United States chase of the system. which is attributed to language Department of the Interior. For audio of committee Pictured from left to right are CMN students, Daulton Cochran, Stilwell; Shelby Donathan, in the bills: TR 20-083 A Tribal Resolu- meetings visit: www.mcnnc. Okemah and Johnny Childress, Muskogee, enjoy the weather as they travel between class- TR 20-080 A Tribal Resolu- tion of the Muscogee (Creek) com es of the CMN campus located in Okmulgee, OK. (submission) CMN EXTENDS ENROLLMENT CMN PLANS TO CONTINUE WITH SUMMER COURSES

Morgan Taylor the overall goal is to be back on REPORTER Campus,” said Randall. “We have extended the deadline as far OKMULGEE, Oklahoma – as we can with the hopes of being Due to the COVID-19, the Col- open.” lege of Muscogee Nation has had Randall said the staff and fac- to make many schedule changes ulty will use the month of May this year. to revive the curriculum before Things started changing starting classes while CMN will when the college decided to move work on making the necessary all classes online and send stu- adjustments for the health and dents back home on March 17. benefits of students. CMN had intended on open- CMN will be now be pro- ing back up April 3 but that was viding laptops for students for not the case. Courses remained the summer trimester enrolled online through the rest of the in nine or more hours. This is spring trimester ending on April to help promote enrollment and 24. success of the students. OME CMN stayed in contact with “We want to focus on our stu- all students on important updates dent’s success and take care of Professional Services: via text, email, and phone call. our future graduates,” said Ran- • Skilled Nursing Care • IV Therapy • Woud Care • Speech Therapy • Occupational Therapy • Dean of Academic Affairs, dall. Monte Randall said students can The CMN graduation cer- • Certified Home Health Aides • VA Provider Services • Physical Therapy • start applying for the summer tri- emony was originally planned mester now but the actual enroll- for April 24. Due to the pan- (*Counties) ment date has been extended to demic, the ceremony has been Service Area : May 4 – June 3 and classes will postponed to August 7 after the • Haskell • Latimer • Leflore • McIntosh • Muskogee • Pittsburg • Sequoyah • start on June 1. summer trimester. “We are hoping to open up For more updates and infor- We take Medicare A and B and VA Pay. • Nurse answers calls after hours and on weekends. for the summer trimester but we mation on enrollment please are making plans if that’s not the contact the College of Muscogee case. If we have to start the tri- Nation’s front desk at (918) 549- Home Health Agency • Native American Owned (Creek) • 519 E Main • Stigler, OK • (918) 967-9971 mester online then we will but 2800.

• P.O. BOX 580 - OKMULGEE, OK 74447 • 918.732.7720 • MVSKOKEMEDIA.COM • @MVSKOKEMEDIA PAGE 6 THE MVSKOKE NEWS EPÂKEN

to hospitals, health agencies and other first responders. Remember the movie about LEGALS the Osage oil murders that was being produced right here in Oklahoma? Native News On-Line reports that flick, “Killers of the Flower Moon”, may go to Net- flix or Apple for distribution. The film, starring Leonardo Di Caprio and Robert De Niro focuses on the rash of murders of Osage oil rights holders in the 1920s. Mohawk musician Robbie Robertson is writing the music for the movie. No date was given. Speaking of Hollywood actors, Sean Penn is repeating his gen- erosity with the Lumbee Tribe of STILL VIRAL, MOVIE STUFF, THE MAYFLOWER North Carolina. Penn had deliv- COVID 19 COLLATERAL DAMAGE, MOVIE HAPPENINGS, ered meals and other supplies to tribal members in the fall of WRITE ABOUT THE MAYFLOWER 2018. His non-profit, CORE again appeared on the scene, bringing Gary Fife you get over any embarrassment more assistance. Mvto, man. RADIO SPECIALIST you might feel when out in public Have you ever wanted to because it could help keep you express your feelings about the OKMULGEE, Oklahoma – from getting the virus. landing of the Mayflower about All the news is full of reports on Remember the old TV show 400 years ago? The American the Covid-19 epidemic, so it might “Lone Ranger”? You could be the Indian College Fund is giving you dominate this month’s column, Masked Man and the Faithful the chance. The Fund will be pub- too. Indian Companion at the same lishing essays from Native peoples Masks on, hands washed? time. in a new publication called, “A News reports say that the I saw on Facebook somebody Journal of Native Reflections on Navajo Nation is hardest hit. Their has been selling some great look- the Mayflower”. numbers are scary. According to ing masks with Pueblo designs on They are accepting original a Navajo press release, the tribe them. submissions on how our Native is prohibiting tourists and visi- Don’t know more about peoples have met the challenge, tors from entering the reservation. them, so you might ask ques- how we have survived and how Maybe they got something there? tions. Maybe someone could pro- we deal with the fact in today’s The Mvskoke Nation is not duce some with Mvskoke textile world. The deadline is June 30. immune. Our area is experiencing designs? Hmmm. It should be published Novem- the effects of the epidemic and our Other impacts? As far as I ber 1, for Native American month. tribe is taking steps to deal with it know the Wild Onion dinner Accepted entries will give you a as best it can. A lot of questions season has been a no-go. Maybe chance to get the idea off your about tests, supplies and equip- folks have been freezing them for chest. You could make $200. If ment are flying around. Let’s the future? And…what about the you’re interested: www.college- hope we can get some answers stomp grounds or the pow-wow fund.org/mayflower. soon. We’ll pass them on as soon season? Imagine a Fancy Dancer By the way, Cherokee humor- as we get them. or a Jingle Dress dancer wearing a ist, Will Rogers has already used So, cenke okkosvs-wash your mask? Maybe beaded ones? (Just the joke: “My ancestors didn’t hands, and practice social distanc- kidding!) come over on the Mayflower, but ing. If you have one of the masks Native News On-Line reports, they were there to meet the boat.” from the last flu epidemic, you Michigan students at a small O.K., that’s about all I can might want to use it. I’m not sure Tribal college are using 3D print- think of for now. Remember, if the medic folks say if they are or ing technology to produce reus- ‘Cenke Okkosvs’—wash your aren’t effective at this point, but if able facemasks for emergency hands. Have good prayers and you don’t have anything else, it’s workers in their area. The light- thoughts about our peoples facing better than nothing. Make sure weight face shields will be sent this viral crisis.

Has the Prescription Opioid Crisis affected you or someone you know? You could be compensated from the Purdue Pharma L.P. Bankruptcy. File Your Claim by June 30, 2020. PLEASE READ THIS NOTICE CAREFULLY. YOUR RIGHTS MAY BE AFFECTED. PARA INFORMACIÓN EN ESPAÑOL, VISITE EL SITIO WEB.

WHAT IS THIS ABOUT? If you think you’ve been hurt by Purdue Pharma L.P., a U.S. limited partnership, its general partner and its subsidiaries, including Imbrium Therapeutics L.P., Adlon Therapeutics L.P., Greenfield BioVentures L.P., Avrio Health L.P., Rhodes Technologies, and Rhodes Pharmaceuticals L.P. (“Purdue”), or Purdue prescription opioids, like OxyContin®, or other prescription opioids produced, marketed or sold by Purdue, you can file a claim for compensation in the Purdue bankruptcy proceeding. The deadline to file a claim is June 30, 2020, at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time.

WHAT IS A CLAIM AND WHO CAN FILE? A “claim” means a right to seek payment or other compensation. You must file a Proof of Claim Form so it is actually received by the deadline. It can be filed by you, by a legal guardian, by survivors, or by relatives of people who have died or are disabled. All Personal Injury Claimant Proof of Claim Forms and any supporting documentation submitted with those forms will be kept highly confidential and will not be made available to the public. You do not need an attorney to file a proof of claim for you. Additionally, partnerships, corporations, joint ventures, trusts, governmental units, and Native American Tribes may also file a proof of claim against Purdue. Go to PurduePharmaClaims.com to find a complete list of instructions on how to file a claim. You will also find a list of the opioids produced, marketed or sold by Purdue. You may file a Proof of Claim even if a settlement is contemplated in the Purdue bankruptcy so that your claim can be considered as part of any settlement.

WHO DOES THIS AFFECT AND WHAT ARE MY RIGHTS? If you think you’ve suffered harm from Purdue or its prescription opioids, you have the right to file a claim even if you may also have received reimbursement from insurance. Examples of claims that may be filed in the Purdue bankruptcy include death, addiction or dependence, lost wages, loss of spousal relationship benefit for things like child-rearing, enjoyment of life, etc., or Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (sometimes referred to as “NAS”), among others. The deadline to file a claim is June 30, 2020, at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time. If you do not file a claim by the deadline, you will lose the right to file a claim against Purdue, and you will lose any right to seek payment or compensation you may have had. Proof of Claim Forms, a list of opioids produced, marketed or sold by "Purdue," and instructions for how to file a claim are online at PurduePharmaClaims.com. You can also request a claim form by mail, email or phone:

Purdue Pharma Claims Processing Center c/o Prime Clerk LLC 850 Third Avenue, Ste. 412, Brooklyn, NY 11232 Email: [email protected] - Phone: 1.844.217.0912

THIS IS ONLY A SUMMARY OF THE INFORMATION. Is Purdue out of money? No. For more information concerning Purdue’s bankruptcy, Frequently Asked Questions, Proof of Claim Forms, examples of personal injury and other claims that can be filed, instructions on how to file a claim, and important documents including the Bar Date Notice, visit

PurduePharmaClaims.com, or call 1.844.217.0912.

• P.O. BOX 580 - OKMULGEE, OK 74447 • 918.732.7720 • MVSKOKEMEDIA.COM • @MVSKOKEMEDIA KÔLVPÂKEN THE MVSKOKE NEWS PAGE 7

WILSON GENE and wife Karen of the Wilson Com- KING munity; JoAnn Harjo and Steve OBITUARIES Wind of Okmulgee; Wilson King, Sr. was born in Dewayne King of Morris; Lisa BEVERLY ANN Holdenville, Oklahoma on May 6, Sands and Clifford of Okemah; WATASHE 1933 to Mary Pigeon Soweka. He Jimmy King and Dana of Weleetka; passed at his home in Okmulgee, Christine King and Charley Hicks Beverly Ann Watashe, 71, of Oklahoma surrounded by family on of Henryetta; brother, Larry Joe Sapulpa, Oklahoma went to be with Thursday, April 2 at the age of 86. Soweka; Our Lord on March 12, 2020, at Wilson was second chief at Eighteen grandchildren, thir- Sherwood Manor where she was a Hickory Ground Ceremonial ty-seven great grandchildren, & a resident. Ground. He was an active member host of other family & friends. She was born December 10, and followed his traditional ways Pallbearers are Travis King, 1948 at Claremore Indian Hospital, and attended stomp dances until his Corey King, Creighton Barnoski, Claremore, Oklahoma. She gradu- health failed. Matthew King, Clifton Sands and ated from Kellyville High School. He worked for Ryal School as Charlie Hicks. She attended Northeastern A&M, custodian and bus driver for 32 Honorary pallbearers are, Scott completing an Associates in Busi- years. Wilson also worked for many dren and great grandchildren. King, Merle Kessee, Rocky Pigeon, ness Administration, then fur- years as a deputy for the McIntosh He was preceded in death by Rodney James, Phillip Crawford, thered her education at Oklahoma County Sheriff’s office. his wife Wanda (West) King, his Trenton Barnoski, Cliffod Sands State University. She entered the You could always find Wilson mother, Mary (Pigeon) Soweka, and Steve Wind. workforce with the Department of Oklahoma and Allen Ray Watashe outdoors gardening and tinkering an uncle, John Pigeon, grandson, A private family wake, funeral Human Services 1975 and retired of Sapulpa, Oklahoma; six sisters around the yard. He enjoyed watch- Anthony Thomas, sister, Sally Wal- service and burial was held at Hut- after 25 years of Service. Brenda Watashe Mills of Okmul- ing wrestling, was an avid Chicago lace, and son-in-law Frank Bemore. chechuppa Church with interment Beverly loved playing Basket- gee, Oklahoma Debra Watashe Cubs fan, liked playing dominoes He is survived by nine children: in Hutchechuppa Church Cemetery ball, Volleyball, and Softball. She Rabbit of Sapulpa, Oklahoma and especially loved family gather- Linda Bemore, Allen King, Bobby under direction of Integrity Funeral was a four-year Letterman in all 3 Cynthia Watashe Fox of Glenpool, ings with his children, grandchil- King of the home; Wilson King, Jr. Service. sports. She was also an All-Confer- Oklahoma Jessie Watashe Sapulpa, ence player in Basketball during her Oklahoma Patricia Watashe Dunn information contact the Higher able. Please contact Officer Dan Senior Year of High School. Bev- of Mannford, Oklahoma, Sharon SUBMISSIONS Education Office at 918-732-7661. Beaver or Officer Cody Townsend erly was elected Basketball Queen, Watashe Lee of Tulsa, Oklahoma Higher Ed. Assistance at Lighthorse Police Department and was elected Prettiest Player at and numerous nieces and neph- The Higher Education pro- Sex Offender Registration (918) 732-7800. the All Indian Tournament in Okla- ews. gram provides supplemental finan- and Check-in homa City. Wake services were held on cial assistance and opportunities to To help stop the spread of Thank You She was preceded in death by March 16 at Traditions Funeral student-citizens of the Muscogee Covid-19 the Lighthorse Police The family of Wilson King, Sr. parents Jesse and Annie Helen Bar- Chapel in Kellyville. Services were (Creek) Nation in pursuing an Department will be taking offender would like to express our gratitude to nett Watashe and one, sister Rita held on March 17, 2020 also at Tra- undergraduate or postgraduate information and report-ins over Integrity Funeral Service, Hutchech- Darlene Watashe. ditions Funeral Chapel with burial degree. Deadlines for Undergrad- the phone. Follow-ups will be uppa Church, Wallace Gambler She is survived by one daughter to follow at the Watashe Cemetery. uate Grants for fall is June 1 and conducted in person at a later and a special thank You to all that Chris LaDawn Baker of Tulsa, Okla- Private family services were spring is Dec. 15. All applications date once the threat has subsided. donated flowers, food and monetary homa; three Brothers Joe Wesley arranged through Traditions can be accessed online at www.mcn- When reporting you will need gifts and especially for all the encour- Watashe of Kiefer, Oklahoma Funeral and Cremation Services nsn.gov/services/education-train- driver’s license number, citizenship aging words and prayers during the Charles Edward Watashe of Sapulpa, out of Kellyville, Oklahoma. ing/higher-education/, for more number and current address avail- loss of our Dad. Mvto.

DAVID EDWARD FOX TRIBAL DIAGNOSTICS TO START COVID-19 TESTING NATIVE AMERICAN OWNED HIGH COMPLEXITY DIAGNOSTICS LAB TO BEGIN TAKING COVID-19 SAMPLES David Edward Fox was born July 21, 1963 at Claremore Indian Hos- pital, Claremore, Oklahoma. David OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma passed from this life on April 4, 2020. —Tribal Diagnostics, a Native David attended Sapulpa Public American-owned high complex- Schools all 12 years. He was in ity diagnostics laboratory based cross-country and track. He grad- in Oklahoma City, is set to begin uated in 1981. He attended Has- accepting COVID-19 samples kell Indian Jr. College. During his from healthcare providers in younger years he played basketball Oklahoma and across the coun- and fast pitch softball until an injury try. Testing is affordable and sidelined him. He was an avid St. will occur in two phases. Louis Cardinal and OU Sooner fan. “Tribal Diagnostics is proud He enjoyed helping his mom to use our experience during cook. His family enjoyed his cook- ering and Melinda Fox of Sapulpa these challenging and unprece- ing, especially when he made sofkey and numerous nieces, nephews, rel- dented times. We have now con- and popcorn balls. He enjoyed his atives and friends. ducted over one million labo- time with family and friends. He Honorary bearers were Simon ratory tests and feel uniquely enjoyed being with his special friend Harry, Joe Watashe, Mark Watashe, positioned to join the fight to Salena and her brother Mark and his Sonny Hill, Bunky Hill, Robert control the COVID-19 outbreak wife Anita. David Leaf, Chris Leaf, Anthony in Oklahoma and particularly David was preceded in death by Columbus, Lucas Columbus, Cub within our often-vulnerable parents Herbert and Martha Fox; Columbus, Micah Roger Fox, Dylan tribal and rural communities. brother Roger Fox; nephews Dondi Fox, Thomas Wolfe, Trenton Wolfe, Our mission is to help improve Fox and Zackary Pickering and Jordan Warrior, Tyies Warrior, Jere- health outcomes in Oklahoma brother-in-law Mike Columbus. miah Maddox, Isaiah Maddox, Kylar by doing what we do best – pro- David is survived by brothers Bearpaw, Kale Bearpaw, Maverick viding comprehensive lab anal- Steve Fox and Phillip Fox of Sapulpa, Chisholm, Eric Williamson and Joe ysis as quickly as possible,” said Adam Fox of Norman, Mark and “Hawk” Watashe. Tribal Diagnostics CEO Cory Sheila Fox of Sapulpa, Micah and Private family services were Littlepage, who is a citizen of the Janie Fox of Glenpool; sisters Steph- arranged through Traditions Funeral Chickasaw Nation. anie Fox Leaf of Broken Arrow, Lu and Cremation Services out of Kelly- Tribal Diagnostics will start Fox Columbus of Kiefer, Lydia Pick- ville, Oklahoma. the first phase of Coronavirus testing, which will test for the Native American owned high complexity diagnostics lab based in Oklahoma City set to COVID-19 antibody, on April begin accepting COVID-19 samples. (Submission) LUCILLE 23. The serology blood antibody JOHN test is designed to identify if a on who is developing protection care and analysis during the person has previously had the against COVID-19. Knowing Coronvirus pandemic. Okla- Lucille John of Muskogee died Coronavirus. Tribal Diagnos- who has some level of immunity homa is home to more than 39 Wednesday, April 1 at the age tics will run antibody tests on is an important factor in deter- Tribes and Tribal Organiza- of 82. Lucille was born on May its Abbott ARCHITECT instru- mining when a person can safely tions, each serving the poten- 15, 1937 in Bristow, Oklahoma. ment which can test 100 patient return to work or restart life,” tially vulnerable population of She was the daughter of Johnson specimens per hour. Littlepage said. “Antibodies American Indians. and Munnie (Bear) Bluford. She The second phase, which take time to develop so under- “The option for Oklahoma attended Chilocco Indian School. is set to start in May, includes standing the early detection and Tribal residents to use an On November 1, 1958, she and a nasal swab molecular poly- of COVID-19 through a PCR Oklahoma-based lab is a great Willie Joe John were married in Bri- merase chain reaction (PCR) molecular test is critical in con- benefit,” said Littlepage. “We stow, Oklahoma. Mrs. John’s pro- test that detects the presence trolling the virus and determin- are acutely aware of the health fessional career consisted of fed- of the virus and identifies if a ing treatment options. status and needs of Oklahomans eral government service with the person currently has COVID-19. Littlepage added that and American Indians and we Bureau of Indian Affairs and the The test is currently in develop- finances should not prevent take that status very seriously. Veteran Affairs before her retire- ment but will be run on its Ther- someone from being able to have We want the Tribes to know they ment in 1994. Lucille was a member and Sampson of Muskogee; a niece moFisher QuantStudio instru- access to Coronavirus testing, can trust us, and their health of the First Indian Baptist Church in Monnie Underwood and extended ment which can test 200 patient so the Oklahoma City-based and recovery is our top con- Muskogee and a citizen of the Mus- family members Nancy Jones, Jake specimens per day. lab will only charge the Medi- cern. Providing and caring for cogee (Creek) Nation. Wyly and special daily care provider Oklahoma had its first con- care rate for these COVID-19 one’s community is ingrained Lucille was a proud grand- Margaret Wilson. Mrs. John was firmed case of COVID-19 in tests. Tribal Diagnostics cur- in American Indian culture and mother and devoted to her 4 grand- preceded in death by her parents, early March, and the effect on rently has contracts with Unit- therefore ingrained in the fiber children. She enjoyed watching her husband and a sister, Lena. rural and Tribal communities is edHealthcare, Cigna, Aetna, of our company.” grandchildren’s soccer games, OU The family also appreciates the of concern for many health pro- HealthChoice, Healthcare High- Director of Tribal Relations, Sooner football, was an avid OKC care and loving support provided by viders. ways, Medicare, and Oklahoma Bailey Walker, will lead mem- Thunder fan, and fond of caring all her home health and hospice care Looking to avoid delayed Health Care Authority which bers of the Tribal Diagnostics for her flowers and plants. She also providers. test results in these areas, Tribal will help cover the cost of med- team in reaching out to Okla- enjoyed the companionship of her Serving as honorary pallbear- Diagnostics is joining the team ically necessary tests. An agree- homa state and Tribally-owned pet dachshund, Bama. ers were Walter “Dub” Davis, Ted of healthcare facilities helping ment with Humana will begin and operated health facilities on Survivors include her children Meyer, Shaun West, Jason White, Oklahoma citizens learn more June 2020. how to submit patient samples. Nancy John, of Muskogee; Charles Jake Wyly, and Kenny Jones. The about the virus and recover as While Tribal Diagnostics Healthcare facilities interested John (Christy), of Muskogee; Sherri family entrusted Cornerstone quickly as possible. is available to serve all health- in using Tribal Diagnostics for John (Ted Meyer) of St. Charles, Funeral Home with arrangements. “For antibody tests, know- care providers, they are working COVID-19 testing should con- MO; granddaughters Kaia and Sayre A private family service and burial ing if a person was previously hard to ensure Tribally-operated tact their Territory Manager or of Muskogee; grandsons Walker were held on Friday, April 3. infected helps provide context facilities are receiving focused the lab directly at 405-869-2978.

• P.O. BOX 580 - OKMULGEE, OK 74447 • 918.732.7720 • MVSKOKEMEDIA.COM • @MVSKOKEMEDIA PAGE 8 THE MVSKOKE NEWS CENVPÂKEN WILLIAMS TEACHES CULTURE THROUGH HIS FILMMAKING FILMMAKER SHARES STORY OF CHOCTAW AND CREEK SISTERS WHO LOVE STICKBALL IN HIS LATEST PROJECT

Lani Hansen he might be interested in sub- REPORTER mitting his film. Williams had never been in a film festival OKMULGEE, Oklahoma– before he took the offer. Choctaw filmmaker, Mark Years passed and in 2012 Williams lives to teach others he began to make documenta- about his culture and other ries, but continues to do narra- Native cultures through his tive films but not as much. He documentary filmmaking. hopes what inspires him might According to an interview inspire other people, especially with Mvskoke Vision, Wil- when he makes documentaries liams has always been creative that connect to the culture. and loved to write but once “About two year ago I made he got older he wrote his very a stickball film for Choc- first script in 2006. He wrote taw Nation,” Williams said. a short script and submitted it “I learned a lot about Choc- A scene from the current documentary that Choctaw filmmaker Mark Williams is working on, featuring Aliyah Myers, one of the two Choc- into a contest and at the same taw stickball the history of it taw/Creek sisters who enjoys playing stickball. (Submission) time he made a short film. and what it means to us. Grow- “I wasn’t too serious at the ing up I didn’t play stickball, time of making the film, I got because it wasn’t as popular as others to learn. Choctaw’s do not have their a team called Tvshka Homma. family and friends together to it is now.” “For me it was to share their own grounds anymore so it is They travel with their team play- help out because it was a $200 Williams noticed the sis- story and hopefully inspire more of a sport. Stickball is ing in Texas and Mississippi for budget so it wasn’t big,” Wil- ters were always participating others to follow their lead,” Wil- called “Little Brother of War,” the Stickball World Series. Their liams said. at the stickball games he was liams explained about the doc- with Choctaw’s instead of going team competes against Chero- After making this film he filming. He decided to feature umentary. “It’s an ongoing pro- into battles or wars with other kee’s and Chickasaw’s teams. only sent copies to family, them in his latest endeavor. cess, we’re still shooting it right tribes and communities they To view Mark’s work visit, but eventually someone from He said they got a late start now. It’s kinda developing as would play stickball. www.markdwilliams.net or Red Fork Film Festival out of learning how to play stickball we’re shooting, its taking its The two sisters play for Facebook at Digital Feather Tulsa gave him a call asking if but hopes thier story is inspires own path right now.” Choctaw Nation, they play with Media. HIGHER ED FUNDING HELPS CITIZEN SUCCEED MCN HIGHER EDUCATION SENDS CITIZEN TO LAW SCHOOL Lani Hansen REPORTER OKMULGEE, Oklahoma– Mvskoke Media is beginning a new series spotlighting Muscogee (Creek) Nation higher education students, with Hannah Stidman as the first student. Stidman received a Tribal Funds Grant through Muscogee (Creek) Nation’s Higher Education program. The funding from this grant allowed her to complete her undergraduate degree from Okla- MCN will continue to foot the bill for payroll, as the gaming facilities remain closed homa State University. Stidman is through the COVID-19 public health crisis. (MN File Photo) currently in her second year of law school at the University of Tulsa, where she is pursuing a degree in TRIBAL NATION CONTINUES the areas of Native American Law and Environmental Law. “Creek Nation has not only TO INVEST IN EMPLOYEES provided me with funds for Hannah Stidman is a recipient of the MCN Higher Education grant and is currently in her EMPLOYEES WILL CONTINUE TO RECEIVE BASE PAY school but it has provided me with second year of law school. (Submission) AND BENEFITS UNTIL MAY 15 AMID CLOSURE AS opportunities to make me a more accomplished student,” Stidman BOARD MEETS WEEKLY TO EVALUATE COVID-19 stated. the world and knew a career in law “Last summer I worked for “For example, I was given the would allow me to do that.” a state agency, the Oklahoma Angel Ellis Muscogee (Creek) Nation opportunity to submit a proposal She developed a plan early Department of Agriculture, Food REPORTER Principal Chief David Hill and along with other students in the on in college to get herself there and Forestry and I am looking for River Spirit Casino Resort Chief tribe pursuing their masters and by finishing her undergraduate experience at a federal agency this TULSA, Oklahoma– The Executive Officer Pat Crofts made doctoral degrees,” Stidman said. degree with 19 hours of law-re- summer,” Stidman said. “My plan Muscogee (Creek) Nation Casino the announcements throughout “I was chosen as an applicant to lated courses. She was accepted has been to work up the different shut down has been extended the pandemic but did not issue a give a presentation at the Mus- into The University of Tulsa Col- levels of government so that I can until at least May 15, according release on the latest extension. cogee (Creek) Nation Scholars lege of Law in 2018. Her origi- be prepared to seek tribal employ- to MCN Press Secretary Jason While none of the tribal Forum last summer, and was for- nal calling for becoming a vet has ment.” Salsman. The Gaming Oper- gaming facilities ever reported tunate enough to be awarded the influenced her studies. Her alternative plan is to seek ations Authority Board and positive COVID-19 cases, offi- MCN Most Outstanding Scholar.” Stidman will be saving her employment at a state or federal Casino Officials are continu- cials have voluntarily shut down The award just added on to her funds from Creek Nation for her agency, working in areas includ- ing to monitor and evaluate the operations as a precaution. academic success and opens up bar exam preparation. Law school ing environmental and tribal law. COVID-19 situation. After April 30 officials will many conversations with poten- students take a bar course in their Stidman plans on giving back to In a climate of economic review forecasts by federal tial employers. last semester of law school, but the Naion, since they did help put uncertainty and rising unem- health officials. Law school has not always they begin taking online courses her through school. ployment due to corona virus, According to the earlier been Stidman’s calling, she actu- up until the exam which is at the “I plan on giving back to the the Muscogee (Creek) Nation releases the tribe is focused on ally wanted to be a veterinarian. end of July, according to Stidman. Nation by furthering my research has invested millions to keep being a good leader in a crisis. She was accepted into veterinary “The bar prep classes are to cover important areas of Native employees and maintain ser- The 2,200 employee’s payroll school at OSU before graduating expensive and are vital for passing American law relating to its envi- vices. totals about $3.4 million every from high school. the bar,” Stidman stated. ronment and resources,” Stidman The tribal gaming facili- two weeks. Over the course of “It was shortly before I started After finishing law school, said. “I want to do my part in pro- ties have been closed due to four pay periods the MCN will at OSU when law school became a Stidman plans on looking for tecting the tribe’s sacred land and safety precautions in the wake of have invested $13.6 million in calling,” Stidman said. “I realized employment opportunities on the cultural diversities and hope to do COVID-19 since March 16. employee play and benefits. I wanted to make real change in tribal level. so through the law.”

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• P.O. BOX 580 - OKMULGEE, OK 74447 • 918.732.7720 • MVSKOKEMEDIA.COM • @MVSKOKEMEDIA ÔSTVPÂKEN THE MVSKOKE NEWS PAGE 9 GROUNDBREAKING SPIRO LEADERSHIP FROM AMBASSADOR TO SUPERVISOR EXHIBITION AWARDED GRANT FORMER PRINCESS COMPARES HOW THE ACTIVITIES HAS CHANGED OVER THE YEARS EXHIBITION WILL INCLUDE THE REUNIFICATION OF A Lani Hansen REPORTER RANGE OF ITEMS LOOTED AND ARCHAEOLOGICALLY OKMULGEE, Oklahoma– EXCAVATED IN THE 1940’S-30’S FROM SPIRO Mvskoke Media continues the series of “Former MCN prin- OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla- together since the early 1930s and cesses: Where are they now?” with homa–The National Endowment 1940s. Embossed copper plates, series nine featuring Sunny Rob- for the Humanities’ (NEH) has wooden sculptures, thousands of erts-Hammer. Hammer served as awarded a $400,000 grant to sup- pearls and beads, large human effigy Muscogee (Creek) Nation Princess port the exhibition “Spiro and the pipes and engraved shell gorgets and in 2000-2001. Art of the Mississippian World” at cups are just some of the things that “It was the summer after my the National Cowboy & Western were housed at Spiro. In fact, nearly senior year when I won the title,” Heritage Museum. The first major 90% of all known engraved shell cre- Hammer said. “Back then I feel presentation on the Spiro Mounds ated during the Mississippian period like it was honor to do it and go ever undertaken by a museum, the (900 – 1650 AD) was discovered at visit, and the main purpose was exhibition will share the art, history this one site. to be a good will ambassador in and culture of the Spiro people, rep- “The quality and quantity of social events.” resenting the first, and possibly last, material found in Spiro is unprece- Hammer said that she did not time these artifacts will be reunited dented,” said Eric Singleton, Ph.D., do as much as what the current from various collections across the Museum Curator of Ethnology. “We princeses are doing now such as country. are grateful to have the support of speaking at events. She was able to The exhibition will include the Spiroan descendants, the Caddo visit other tribes and hear differ- approximately 200 objects and will Nation and the Wichita and Affili- ent people speak, the traveling got debut at National Cowboy & West- ated Tribes, as we work on this exhi- her out of rural Oklahoma. ern Heritage Museum February 12 - bition. Without them, this exhibi- The Miss Muscogee (Creek) May 16, 2021, before traveling to the tion would not be possible.” Nation pageant was the first time Birmingham Museum of Art and The grant was approved through Hammer ever ran for anything. Sunny Hammer served as the Miss Muscogee (Creek) Nation 2000-2001. (Submission) then to the Dallas Museum of Art. NEH’s public humanities projects She remembers being scared The Spiro Mounds in Oklahoma program, which supports projects because she had never spoken said. “I got Miss Photogenic and kids so I thought I have to do are one of the United States’ most that bring the ideas and insights of in front of a large crowd before I thought, ‘okay that’s what they something,” Hammer said. “My important ancient Native Ameri- the humanities to life for general and when it came to the talent are giving me because I’m proba- son was about six weeks old when can sites, yet the Spiro people are audiences through in-person pro- Hammer said she had no talent. bly not getting anything else’ then I started the X-ray program, and nearly forgotten in the pages of his- gramming. Projects must engage Hammer said her grandma, they named me as the winner, I he was almost two when I fin- tory books, despite creating one of humanities scholarship to analyze mom and grandparents were thought oh my goodness I never ished. So I had two toddlers by the the most sophisticated ancient cul- significant themes in disciplines all members of Nuyaka Stomp- thought I would win.” time I finished X-ray school, but tures. It is believed that the Spiroan such as history, literature, ethics and ground and that is where she grew During her reign, Hammer’s we made it.” people, along with other Mississip- art history. up. first big event was Inter-tribal Hammer is now working as a pian groups across the eastern half “We are extremely grateful to be “I knew all of those traditions and she did not realize there were supervisor in the X-ray Depart- of North America, created a world awarded a highly competitive and and dances,” Hammer said. “So so many tribes other than Creek ment in Okemah, she has been equal to that of the Aztec, Maya or prestigious National Endowment for I chose to show that. At the time Nation. Another event she was there for five years in July. She Inca, consisting of trade networks the Humanities’ grant in support of it was probably controversial to able to attend was the Gathering currently has two kids and her and highly developed social, politi- our Spiro and the Art of the Missis- show things that we do there in a of Nations, where she saw so many husband is a coach at Sequoyah cal and religious centers. During the sippian World exhibition and pub- ceremony to showing it out to the other Native people. High School in Tahlequah. 1930s, commercial and academic lication,” said Museum President & public.” While Hammer represented as “I wanted to come home and excavations revealed the Spiro site CEO Natalie Shirley. “The unique- There was four girls who Miss Muscogee (Creek) Nation she work for my people, that’s where contained one of the greatest col- ness and vast social importance of ran for Miss Muscogee (Creek) had just finshed high school and my heart is and my parents still lections of prehistoric American Spiro needs to be shared with the Nation, and Hammer rembem- was going into college at Okla- live there in Okemah,” Hammer Indian artifacts ever discovered in world, and the support and gener- bered thinking one girl will be homa State University to begin said. “I enjoy working for Creek the United States. osity of the National Endowment for going home without anything and her studies in Engineering Graph- Nation.” This exhibition will include the the Humanities’ will help make that thought it might be her. ics and Drafting. She received her Stay tuned for the May 1 issue reunification of a range of items possible.” “They started naming people associates degree in that program as we find out where the next looted and archaeologically exca- For more information visit second runner-up, first runner-up but was unable to find a job. former Miss Muscogee (Creek) vated at Spiro that have not been http://nationalcowboymuseum.org/ and Miss Photogenic,” Hammer “I was married and was having Nation is now.

How Am I Seeing This? Last week I was talking to a couple we often spend time with, but now are social distancing. They were sharing their struggles having the kids home, being stuck at home together, wondering how to start some type of educational curriculum, not being able to do their usual daily and weekly tasks and loss of conveniences. They were a little put out when my response was not “I understand, we are dealing with the same struggles”. Instead my response was “you’re missing it”, “you’re letting this window of opportunity slip through your ngers and you may never get it again.” I shared several examples of those who had experienced adversity and how they grew from it. One particular event happened when I was a child in the 1970’s. My parents had friends living in Bualo New York. That winter a snow storm hit Bualo and dropped six feet of snow with drifts up to ten feet. My initial response was excitement and jealousy wishing we had that much snow. Not realizing exactly how much snow that really was my parents took the tape measure and showed me on the front door. My excitement and jealousy quickly shifted to “what are they going to do now?” Later that year in the Summer those friends came to visit. They talked about their initial fears and anxiety over being stuck in their home, wondering what they were going to do and the rst couple of days a drudgery. On the third day, the mom started looking at their situation in a dierent light. She realized she was given an opportunity with her kids to do things she had always not had time to do. She and her husband wrote down all the things they wanted to do, teach, instill, help, and even change direction for their kids and the family. Initially, when they shared it with the kids not all were on board, but as eventually they all agreed it was the best thing. Occasionally I have contact with those, now adult kids, and they still will talk about their experience of being snowed-in and what they learned and have passed on to their kids. Some of the things they learned or this event helped them to start working on are: • How to truly value family more and not just exist is the hustle and bustle of life. They are more proactive to spend time together and turn o the business of the world. – Turned the TV o – Actually, had real conversations with each other and not just “how was your day” or “what did you learn at school?” questions • How to enjoy spending time together as a family – Playing games • They had a closet full of games that had not been touched or had never been opened – Learning new things together – they had a ukulele and a piano they all started learning – Cooking together and teaching how to cook and plan meals – Helping each other more often – oering help when they see a need • How to communicate better. – Sharing or stating their feelings more instead of just reacting – Speaking more positive about their siblings – Learning to listen and repeat what they heard instead of interrupting and stating personal opinions – Parents shared how they solve their disagreements • Often the kids did not see or know what they were doing to not blow up • How to ask questions more and make sure what they know is correct – The kids learned to ask their parents questions and not just their peers. • Parents had to be proactive with these conversations but eventually the kids came to them more over the years and less and less with their peers. • Sharing family history – Parents sat down with their stacks of picture albums and shared their family history – Parents shared their personal reasons for their values and beliefs • Reframing the negative – How to see the opportunity instead of just the negative • Oddly enough they spent a lot of time outside making tunnels in the snow like a hamster maze. Great way to get energy out. • How to not focus or dwell on the negative – Turned the news o and focus on just the day at hand. – Practiced calming and peaceful techniques It can be hard not to dwell on all the negative from all the news, our current struggles, our situation, our fears or worries and not let it get overwhelming. One of the best ways is to work on changing your perspective. Start with asking these questions. “What opportunity am I given right now?” – With my kids, spouse, in my relationships, to learn, to stop doing, to grow, to help, hobbies to do, books to read, projects to complete, etc. “What memories do I want to have about this event when I look back on it?” – Some of our best memories are proactively developed. We plan vacations, weekend activities, celebrations and afterwards we are left with good memories. “What have I wanted to teach, share, instill in my kids but have been too busy to do?” – You can look at what the family did or add to their list “What will I do today” – Change starts with a speci c time and date. Setting a day and time to start and following through will lead us closer to completion of the goal. – When will you get the board games out, play basketball, throw a Frisbee, teach your kids how to cook, clean, change a tire, change the oil, talk more with your kids, etc.? – When will you get back to that book, start or return to that hobby, practice an instrument, exercise more, paint the room, nish that project, practice calming techniques, etc.?

Answering these questions will help you be more proactive and less reactive to current events. That is what the family, I referenced, did and it made life-long memories and changes. The last question often is the hardest, because it separates good intentions and puts a time and date on it. It is important to set a speci c time or day you will start doing one or more of the answers you listed in the three previous questions. Be mindful of your expectations. The family I referenced did not make all these changes in the time they were snowed in. The snowed in was just the starting point and they purposely kept the momentum going. If you or someone you know is experiencing anxiety, worry, fear, stress, or even depression and you feel like talking to someone about would help, contact Muscogee (Creek) Nation Behavioral Health at 918-758-1910. Text “Creek” to 741-741 if you or someone you know is in a crisis. Or call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline Number at 1-800-273-8255. Mvto!

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GRANT RECIPIENT SERVING AS BACONE COLLEGE TRIBAL LIASON MCN HIGHER EDUCATION GRANT RECIPIENT RECEIVED DOCTORAL DEGREE FROM OSU Lani Hansen REPORTER

OKMULGEE, Oklahoma– Mvskoke Media continues the series of spotlighting Mus- cogee (Creek) Nation higher education students, with Dr. Nicole Been as our second stu- dent. In late spring and early summer, it is common to see turtles crossing roads as they search The Creek Nation Higher for mates and as females search for nesting sites. (Shutterstock) Education Doctoral Grant helped Dr. Been graduate in May 2019 with her Ph.D. in TURTLE SMUGGLER SENTENCED Health, Leisure and Human A NEW JERSEY MAN GIVEN TWO YEARS PROBATION Performance from Oklahoma State University. AND FINED OVER $350,000 FOR SMUGGLING TURTLES She also, received finan- Angel Ellis predators of fish, amphibians, cial assistance from the tribe REPORTER snakes, mollusks and worms. to pursue her undergraduate According to U.S. Attor- degree and masters degree. Dr. TULSA, Oklahoma– A New ney Trent Shores, by smuggling Been graduated with her Asso- Jersey man was sentenced in fed- the turtles, Gangemi violated the ciates in Arts from Bacone eral court to conspiring with others Lacey Act, a federal law that makes College, Bachelor of Science to purchase, transport and sell it a felony to engage in the sale or in Athletic Training from more than 1,000 box turtles unlaw- purchase of protected wildlife that OSU and Masters in Education fully collected in Oklahoma, U.S. was taken, possessed, transported and Sports Management from Dr. Nicole Been is a recipient of the MCN Higher Education grant and graduated with her Attorney Trent Shores said. or sold in violation of state laws or Baylor University. Ph.D. in May 2019. (Submission) A Mannford, Oklahoma hotel regulations. “Getting my doctoral degree housekeeper entered a room, after In Oklahoma, the collection of has always been a goal of mine into places that we normally the tribal level. Dr. Been has a being told for a week not to clean both types of box turtles for com- since I was in undergrad,” Dr. wouldn’t get into. When I say non-profit organization called it, and discovered the turtles. She mercial purposes is against the Been stated. “The degree plan “us” I mean Native Americans. the BEEN (Building, Educat- tipped off local law enforcement, law. Box turtles reach sexual matu- changed, my original plan in Education is important and is a ing, and Elevating Neighbor- and this eventually led to success- rity at about ten years old and have undergrad and masters was to tool to create a better environ- hoods) Foundation, with this fully dismantling an international a high nest and juvenile mortal- go for sports management for ment for ourselves, local com- they host basketball clinics and wildlife smuggling operation. ity rate. Due to these factors, turtle my Ph.D. and so it definitely munity and our people.” do speaking engagements. Chief U.S. District Judge John harvest can have highly detrimen- changed to health, leisure and The funds Dr. Been received In addition, Dr. Been works E. Dowdell sentenced William T. tal impacts on populations. human performance.” through the tribe had paid for as the Tribal Liason for Bacone Gangemi, 27, of Freehold, New Lueders said, “As a nation, we Dr. Been studied more into all of her Ph.D. program. College. This title allows her to Jersey, to two years of probation. are very fortunate to have had the the leisure aspect, looking at “They helped me relieve go out and meet with the tribal The judge also ordered Gangemi to Lacey Act for the last 120 years, the role of physical activity on that financial stress, to truly be partners to provide their cit- pay $250,000 in restitution to the prohibiting trade in illegally taken Native American women who able to focus on my studies and izens distance-learning pro- Oklahoma Department of Wildlife wildlife, fish and plants.” are survivors of domestic vio- completing that coursework gram. She works with the Conservation and a $100,000 fine “Those who came before us lence. Dr. Been looked at their where I could come back and Kiowa Tribe, Osage, United to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Ser- knew the importance of protect- depression levels vs. their phys- serve my community,” Dr. Been Keetoowah Band of the Cher- vice. ing wildlife from unlawful trade, ical activity levels. The physi- said. “Without them my Ph.D. okees, Cheyenne and Arapaho Box turtles can live beyond 100 and this law remains relevant each cal levels Dr. Been looked for wouldn’t have went smoothly, and Pawnee Nation College. years of age, and inhabit both ter- time a poacher or wildlife smuggler was cultural and traditional they definitely played that Dr. Been stated, “If you restrial and aquatic ecosystems. is charged.” activities like stompdance, financial role allowing me to want to go to college don’t be This makes them valuable indica- “The success of this case is powwow and gardening. focus on my education.” fearful. We come from ances- tors of environmental health. They an excellent example of how cru- “My main focus for staying As far as giving back to the tors that were resilient and eat fruit and are essential for seed cial partnerships are to the critical in school was creating a better Nation, Dr. Been is currently never gave up and continued distribution. They also eat insects work we do,” she said. “It exempli- future for myself, my local working on her research that to fight in what they believed and carrion, curbing the spread of fies the mission of our agency, and community and my people,” she is looking to publish. She in. That is the biggest thing for disease. our ability to achieve this mission Dr. Been said. “I believe that wants to see what some of her me, don’t be afraid to go and be Additionally, they serve as depends on these partnerships.” education is a tool to get us findings can implement on great.”

Attention At-Large Citizens Get the latest copy of the At-Large Citizens Service Booklet

Access the booklet 3 ways: front At-Large Citizens pages of the MCN website call : (918) 732-7613 for physical copy cover email: [email protected]/ [email protected].

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Angel Ellis culate totals specific to the counties that make REPORTER up the Muscogee (Creek) Nation boundaries. Totals are reported are not broken down by The following is a compliation of data tribal citizenship. **Note these reports are not reported by the Oklahoma State Department of generated by the Muscogee (Creek) Nations Health. The following reports were use to cal- health facilities.

APRIL 10

Over 500 people test positive for COVID-19 in the MCN bound- aries, only Hughes Co. reports zero infections Confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Oklahoma total 1794 according to data released by the Oklahoma State Department of Health. Of the 1794 cases reported, 510 of those cases exist within the boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. The number of deaths in the state has reached 88 (40 females, 48 males), 27 of which were residents in the tribal boundaries. According to the data published by Oklahoma Department of Health the Median Age of fatal infections is 56. Of Oklahoma’s 77 counties, 64 counties are reporting positive COVID-19 infec- tions, 20 of those counties have reported COVID-19 related deaths.

APRIL 1

Confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Oklahoma have jumped to 719 according to data released by the Oklahoma State Department of Health. Of the 719 cases reported, 184 of those cases exist within the boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. The number of deaths in the state has also reached 30 (12 females, 18 males), eight of which were residents in the tribal boundaries. Okmulgee County is now reporting four confirmed instances of the coronavirus and no COVID- 19 related deaths. Oklahoma Gov. Kevin stated in a press conference that many testing restrictions are being lifted and that testing efforts will be ramped up. The State is now calling for testing of anyone with symptoms of COVID-19.

APRIL 12

Oklahoma reporting 22,511 COVID-19 Tests Confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Oklahoma total 1970 according to data released by the Oklahoma State Department of Health. Of the 1970 cases reported, 537 of those cases exist within the boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. The number of deaths in the state has reached 9 (44 females, 52 males), 30 of which were residents in the tribal boundaries. According to the data published by Oklahoma Department of Health the Median Age of fatal infections is 56. The Muscogee (Creek) Nation boundaries span 11 counties, some only a small portion of the APRIL 3 county. The state has not reported any positive COVID-19 cases in Hughes Co.

Confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Oklahoma are 988 according to data released by the Okla- homa State Department of Health. Of the 988 cases reported, 267 of those cases exist within the boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. The number of deaths in the state has reached 38 (16 females, 22 males), 12 of which were residents in the tribal boundaries. Okmulgee County is now reporting 7 confirmed instances of the coronavirus and no COVID-19 related deaths.

APRIL 14

Positive COVID-19 cases in MCN jurisdiction spikes over 600 Confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Oklahoma total 2184 according to data released by the Oklahoma State Department of Health. Of the 2184 cases reported, 605 of those cases exist within the boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. The number of deaths in the state has reached 108 (50 females, 58 males), 30 of which were residents in the tribal boundaries. According to the data published by Oklahoma Department of Health the Median Age of fatal APRIL 5 infections is 56. The Muscogee (Creek) Nation boundaries span 11 counties, some only a small portion of the Confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Oklahoma total 1252 according to data released by the county. The state has not reported any positive COVID-19 cases in Hughes Co. Oklahoma State Department of Health. Of the 1252 cases reported, 387 of those cases exist within the boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. The number of deaths in the state has reached 46 (20 females, 26 males), 15 of which were residents in the tribal boundaries.

APRIL 16 APRIL 8 State health department releases data on COVID-19 infection with ethnicity break down Nine people residing within the MCN boundaries have passed Confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Oklahoma total 2357 according to data released by the away since yesterday due to COVID-19 complication Oklahoma State Department of Health. Of the 2357 cases reported, 637 of those cases exist within Confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Oklahoma total 1524 according to data released by the the boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. The number of deaths in the state has reached Oklahoma State Department of Health. Of the 1524 cases reported, 465 of those cases exist within 131 (60 females, 71 males), of which were residents in the tribal boundaries. the boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. The number of deaths in the state has reached 79 According to the data published by Oklahoma Department of Health the Median Age of fatal (37 females, 42 males), 24 of which were residents in the tribal boundaries. infections is 74. An expansion of data has been release by the state. That data reflects that 7.2% of According to the data published by Oklahoma Department of Health the Median Age of fatal the Oklahoma COVID-19 cases are American Indian/Alaska Natives. Native Americans represent infections is 56. the second largest affected population See the chart pictured below for more information.

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APRIL 23 Confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Oklahoma total 3017 according to data released by the Oklahoma State Department of Health. Of the 3017 cases reported, 753 were recorded within the boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. The number of deaths in the state has reached 179. Of the 179, 53 were residents in the tribal nations boundaries. APRIL 18

Oklahoma Department of Health website publishing COVID-19 data is temporarily unavailable The state did send out the statewide update but the breakdown by county and city is not view- able on the states website. Total infected for Oklahoma is 2570 and 139 deaths. Reports indicated that so far 1,441 people have recovered. Mvskoke Media will check back throughout the day to share the county numbers as they become available.

APRIL 24

Over 100 new cases and nine deaths reported in Oklahoma APRIL 21 Confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Oklahoma total 3121 according to data released by the Oklahoma State Department of Health. Of the 3121 cases reported, 753 were recorded within the Oklahoma COVID-19 infection growth rate is 3% boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. The number of deaths in the state has reached 188. Confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Oklahoma total 2807 according to data released by the Okla- Fifty-four were residents in the tribal nations boundaries. homa State Department of Health. Of the 2807 cases reported, 725 of those cases exist within the boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. The number of deaths in the state has reached 164. Of the 164, 50 were residents in the tribal nations boundaries. AIN O

ADATE APRIL 25 Thirty new cases and three deaths reported in the MCN boundaries Over 100 new cases and nine deaths reported in Oklahoma Confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Oklahoma total 3193 according to data released by the Oklahoma State Department of Health. Of the 3393 cases reported, 786 were recorded within the boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) OIES Nation. The number of deaths in the state has reached 194. Fifty-four were residents in the tribal nations boundaries.

The ‘Mvskoke News’ will feature 2020 Muscogee (Creek) Nation high school, military, technical school and college graduates in the upcoming June 1 edition of the ‘MN’.

Please provide us with the following information accompanied with a digital photo file via email to [email protected] no later than Friday, May 8 by 5 p.m. in order to be published in the 2020 ‘MN’ graduation edition. If you do not receive an emailed confirmation of receipt, please call the office at 918-732-7720 to verify the profile has been received.

Profiles will be edited for Associated Press style, structure, grammar, spelling, length and punctuation.

2020 Graduate Profile Form Name: High School/College/Technical Institute/Military Program: Bio (150-word limit):

DEADINE MA AT M APRIL 28

ATE OIES WI NOT E AETED Over 130 new Covid-19 cases in 24-hours as state begins to reopen businesses Confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Oklahoma total 3410 according to data For more information, please call: 918-732-7720 released by the Oklahoma State Department of Health. Of the 3410 cases or email: [email protected] reported, 824 were recorded within the boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. The number of deaths in the state has reached 207. Forty-seven were residents in the tribal nations boundaries.

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