Young Osage Singer Wows Crowd at Good Morning America Studio Shannon Shaw Duty Osage News

Battle of the Plains Page 13

Volume 14, Issue 2 • February 2018 The Official Newspaper of the Osage Nation Imperative Entertainment executives honored Stillwater and overwhelmed by Osage tour and culture Public Library to Imperative and wanted to Standing Bear: set up a meeting. After the initial contact was showcasing ‘they want to make made, Principal Chief Geof- a movie the Osage frey Standing Bear appoint- “Killers of the ed Renfro and Roanhorse as will be proud of’ ambassadors for the Nation to spearhead the relationship Flower Moon” Shannon Shaw Duty between the two entities. It Osage News wasn’t until Renfro and Roan- horse attended a meeting with with Osage If there was one conversa- Standing Bear at the Okla- tion that Addie Roanhorse re- homa Film and Music Office events and members from a recent visit in Oklahoma City that they by Imperative Entertainment learned there had been a lack executives is that they want of communication between discussions to make a film that tells the the office and Imperative and Osage story, that tells Mollie as a result Osage County had Osage News Burkhart’s story and showcas- not been named as a possible The Stillwater Public es her as the heroine. film site. Upon learning about Library is hosting a series “We showed them as much the situation Renfro reached of events titled One Book, as we possibly could in a short out to Imperative again and One Community: “Killers arranged for them to visit amount of time,” Roanhorse of the Flower Moon: The the Osage. said. “We got an email from Osage Murders and the Roanhorse feels confident them last night about how Birth of the FBI.” that Imperative’s two-day vis- honored they were and how “The programs are de- it on Jan. 25-26 was impactful overwhelming it all was. They signed to foster a sense and it showed them how much said it’s clear to them that the of community through a Osage people are thriving.” the Osage care about the proj- shared reading experience When Osage Nation lead- ect. Roanhorse is the senior and to increase an under- ership saw that the rights graphic design artist for the standing of a dark period had been purchased to David Office of the Chiefs, an artist Osage News in Oklahoma history and Grann’s bestselling book, “Kill- and business owner and Renf- Mollie Burkhart (right) with sisters Anna (center) and Minnie (left). Mollie an appreciation of the ers of the Flower Moon: The ro is an Interior Designer and Burkhart is at the center of the Osage story in David Grann’s bestselling Osage Nation,” according Osage Indian Murders and the business owner who is also a book, “Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Indian Murders and the Birth Birth of the FBI,” in March of See Imperative of the FBI.” Anna, Minnie, and their mother were all murdered in a plot to See Library 2017, Chad Renfro reached out —Continued on Page 2 obtain Mollie’s family’s headrights. —Continued on Page 4 Young Osage singer wows crowd at Good Morning America studio Shannon Shaw Duty Osage News

When 10-year-old Ava Rose Johnson took the mic from the announcer at ABC’s Good Morning America studios in New York City, her parents LENZY KREHBIEL-BURTON/Osage News had no idea she was going to Osage Nation citizens Scott Lohah and Ryan Bush protest in Pawnee near receive a standing ovation. an AEP-PSO open house about a proposed 800-turbine wind farm slated What the audience didn’t to go up in the Oklahoma Panhandle. The project calls for part of a 360- know about Ava is that she is mile transmission line to potentially go through southern Osage County. already an accomplished singer and performer who comes from Red Oak, Okla. She was Another wind project may be on in NYC to perform with Okla- homa Kids, a division of Amer- the horizon for Osage County ican Kids Inc., at BB King Lenzy Krehbiel-Burton the world, Wind Catcher En- Blues Club and Grill in Times Osage New ergy Connection is a joint Square and at Luna Park on effort among Chicago-based Coney Island. On Labor Day PAWNEE — Another Invenergy, Southwestern morning, she and the other wind project may be dot- Electric Power Company and performers went to a taping ting the Osage County hori- the Public Service Company of Good Morning America zon in the near future, albeit of Oklahoma. where they had priority seat- See Health ing tickets. without turbines. The proposed transmission —Continued on Page 1 Pitched as the second larg- See Wind “After they were seated, the est wind energy project in —Continued on Page 4 announcer began getting the crowd ready for taping. Ava Courtesy Photo/Nathan Johnson was asked where she was from Osage boys win big at OKWA and she responded with Okla- Ten-year-old Ava Johnson performs at ABC’s Good Morning America stu- homa! The announcer said to dios in New York City on Sept. 3. Novice State Championships in Tulsa Ava, ‘If you are really from Idol, what would you sing?’ She singing and took pictures with Shannon Shaw Duty Oklahoma, then you will be said, “Broadway Baby.” He her,” Johnson said. able to sing “Oklahoma!” Ava Osage News handed her the microphone, Ava has been singing and immediately began to sing she performed and received a performing with Oklahoma “Oklahoma!”, as it is also in Deacon Hendren, Leighton standing ovation.” the Oklahoma Kids Broadway Kids since she was four years Shaw and Levi Hendren are Johnson said the guests on Show,” said her dad Nathan old. A Performing Arts Pro- 2018 Oklahoma Kids Wres- GMA that day were Country Johnson, who is the national gram founded in 1982 that Music stars Brothers Osborne, tling Association Novice State director of American Kids Inc., Lauren Alaina and Dustin boasts such alumni as Blake Champions. SHANNON SHAW DUTY/Osage News and the state director of Okla- All three Osage boys wrestle Lynch, who were on the show Shelton, Carrie Underwood, From left: Levi Hendren, Deacon homa Kids Inc. for the Pawhuska Elks Take to announce the nomina- Kristin Chenoweth, Brian Hendren and Leighton Shaw. “The announcer was shocked tions for the CMA Awards, as White and others. Down Club and competed in All three boys are Osage and she sang it so well. He brought the double-elimination state are OKWA Novice State Champi- Ava onto the floor in front of well as the news anchors of “I love New York City and tournament on Jan. 27, held ons and were recognized at the the news anchors desks. He the show. will never forget how amazing See Wrestling Pawhuska Wrestling Homecoming told Ava, ‘If you had 30 sec- “They all complimented Ava See Ava —Continued on Page 4 on Jan. 30. onds to audition for American and encouraged her to keep —Continued on Page 16

Inside the Osage News Follow the Osage News Online Candidates Certified for 2018 Election ...... 5 Influenza Update and Precautions to Take...... 9 • Breaking news at osagenews.org Absentee Ballot Requests Form Deadline...... 5 Osage County Producers Challenge EPA Order...... 9 • facebook.com/osagenews ONPD Works to Renew BIA Commissions...... 7 Energy Column...... 17 • twitter.com/osagenews Vann Bighorse Named Language Director ...... 7 Obituaries and Classifieds...... 20 • flickr.com/osagenews 2 February 2018 Osage News • osagenews.org

baum and John Atwood. The said Imperative Entertain- Imperative meal, catered by Osage-owned ment was founded in 2014 and –from Page 1 Ah-Tha-Tse Catering, con- that every film they make they board member for the Osage sisted of dried corn, frybread, put their heart and soul into it. Nation Foundation. meat gravy, green beans, sal- They said their visit was a good “I made a point to tell them, ad and dessert. The meal also faith showing that they will be however this story ends up this used dishes owned by Assis- in touch with the Osage. is going to shape how people tant Principal Chief Raymond After the dinner, Standing will view us for generations,” Red Corn – vintage Blue Spode Bear said: “I listened careful- she said. “We will be talking china, which are used for spe- ly to what was said and two about this movie and how it cial Osage occasions. things stand out: one is they impacted our people. Being a Apfelbaum is Head of Film want to make a movie the mom, I want my daughter to for the Santa Monica-based Osage will be proud of, and the know how strong her people Imperative Entertainment other is this story will show are and that Mollie is the her- and is a producer for film, tele- Mollie Burkhart as an Osage oine of the story, she is a hero vision and live entertainment woman who suffered great per- and not a victim.” and is currently working on sonal loss and who was strong Roanhorse said that accord- recently acquired Faster, Neal enough to endure the horrors.” ing to Imperative executives, Bascomb’s upcoming novel Imperative Entertainment the first draft of the screen- about French Jewish race car acquired the rights of “Killers play isn’t finished yet and that driver Rene Dreyfus, as well of the Flower Moon” in March the company is still in the be- as Tangerine, Circling the of 2016 for $5 million. The ginning stages of planning. Sun, The Fifth Season and screenplay has been entrusted A date has not yet been set Sand, according to Deadline. to Eric Roth (Forrest Gump, for filming. com. Atwood is the CFO/COO The Curious Case of Benjamin Roanhorse and Renfro led at Imperative, according to his Button), according to IMDb. the executives on a tour of LinkedIn profile. com. Producers are Dan Fried- Osage locations and historical Both Apfelbaum and At- kin (Dunkirk) and Bradley sites on their two-day visit, as wood spoke at the dinner, ex- Thomas (There’s Something well as two interviews with pressing their Thanks and About Mary), and the produc- Osage elders Mary Jo Webb appreciation for the visit and tion designer is Dante Ferret- and Marvin Stepson in the Mason Family home at Gray- the hospitality they had been ti (Sweeney Todd: The Demon horse. Webb and Stepson are shown by the Osage. Atwood Barber of Fleet Street). featured in Grann’s book. She said the interview Photos Courtesy Photo/Addie Roanhorse with Webb was poignant and Webb asked the executives if TOP: Chad Renfro speaks to the they were filming the movie attendees of a dinner hosting the executives from Imperative Enter- in Osage County because she tainment at The Little Rain Song wanted it filmed in Grayhorse 604 Kihekah • Pawhuska, OK 74056 Loft in downtown Pawhuska on and Fairfax where the events (918) 287-5668 Jan. 25. took place. The executives www.osagenews.org gave her a general response MIDDLE: Osage elders Mary Jo and said they were still in the Webb and Marvin Stepson are in- Editor planning stages but told Webb terviewed inside the Mason Family Shannon Shaw Duty that Mollie Burkhart is the home in Grayhorse on Jan. 25. lead character. Mollie Burkhart is at the RIGHT: The Office of the Chiefs Senior Reporter hosted a dinner for Imperative center of the Osage story in Benny Polacca Grann’s book. The plot is cen- Entertainment executives at The Little Rain Song Loft in downtown tered around the murders that Pawhuska. Editorial Assistant / Photographer happened to Molly’s sisters, Chalene Toehay-Tartsah her mother and the attempted trial in the book of Burkhart dinner at The Little Rain Song murder on Molly’s life by her and Hale and it takes place Loft in downtown Pawhuska, husband’s brother and uncle, at the Osage County Court- which is owned by Roanhorse Osage News Editorial William Hale. Their plot was house that still stands today in and Osage businesswoman Board Members to ensure all headrights with- Pawhuska. Jerri Jean Branstetter in her family passed to Mol- Jill Jones. The guests included lie and then by killing Mollie, Webb and Stepson and their Lu King they would be passed to her Osage dinner families, as well as other local Teresa Trumbly Lamsam husband Earnest Burkhart, a On the evening of Jan. 25, Osages and the two executives non-Indian. There is a lengthy Roanhorse and Renfro hosted a from Imperative, Jillian Apfel- Osage News • osagenews.org February 2018 3 4 February 2018 Osage News • osagenews.org Library –from Page 1 to the library’s website. The event is the ninth community-wide reading series for Still- water. David Grann, author of “Killers of the Flower Moon,” will be featured at the OSU Alumni Center on April 12 at 7 p.m. and will discuss his research and experiences in writing the book, which was also Amazon.com’s Book of the Year and is being made into a feature film starring Leonardo DiCaprio and being directed LENZY KREHBIEL-BURTON/Osage News by Martin Scorsese. The project calls for part of a 360-mile transmission line to potentially Descendants of the Osages go through southern Osage County. named in the book will share the effect the events still have on their families. A book sign- Wind PSO is hosting three open ing will follow. –from Page 1 line would run 360 miles houses in February about its pro- SCHEDULE OF EVENTS from an 800-turbine farm posed southern transmission line March 1 – Stillwater near Guymon to a Tulsa-area for the Wind Catcher project. All substation and then on to ad- Public Library, 7 p.m. three are scheduled for 4-7 p.m. Osage Nation Historic Pres- ditional substations in Loui- ervation Officer, Dr. Andrea siana, Arkansas and eastern • Feb. 5: Glenpool Conference Hunter, will present “The Texas. The $4.5 billion proj- Center. 12205 S. Yukon Ave. ect is slated to generate 2,000 Osage Nation: A Brief His- tion and lawlessness,” accord- Osage dance, singing, and sto- • Feb. 6: White Barn Event tory” which traces the Osage megawatts of energy annu- ing to the library website. ry demonstrations, as well as Center. 12875 S. 305th from their earliest known ex- ally when it comes online in booths featuring traditional istence to their removal into late 2020. W. Ave., Bristow March 15 – Stillwater Osage foods, Osage ribbon- Oklahoma. Attendees may get As the transmission line • Feb. 7: Cushing High Public Library, 7 p.m. work, Osage Dice, pottery, a free copy of “Killers of the approaches the Tulsa area, Dr. Dwight Adams (UCO, Osage language activities, and School. 1700 E. Walnut St. Flower Moon: The Osage Mur- two potential routes are un- Forensic Science Institute) ders and the Birth of the FBI,” an Osage Drum exhibit. der consideration. will present “Forensic Science The northern one, first an- when they sign-up for the were yelling at families, Capabilities during the Osage nounced in late 2017, would book discussion. March 26 – Stillwater wanting to know why the Murders Compared to Today.” go through northern Paw- Public Library, 7 p.m. Osages were there and why The former director of the FBI nee County and far southern March 6 – Stillwater “Osage Art” with Addie were we interfering with laboratory at Quantico and Osage County en route to a Roanhorse, artist, photogra- jobs. All kinds of hate-filled Public Library, member of the team that de- substation in Sperry. The pher, and senior graphic de- stuff. Only a handful of peo- 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. veloped DNA techniques first projected path would have sign specialist for the Osage ple were going to get any- Dr. Katrina Lacher (Uni- used in 1988, will discuss law the line enter Osage Coun- thing, but the whole room versity of Central Oklahoma) enforcement technologies Nation. She will discuss Osage ty north of Blackburn, head was fighting one another. will present “The Problem of in the early 1900’s and con- art, both past and present, and southwest between Hominy “At the next meeting I Riches: Oil Boom and Bust trast with those available in how David Grann’s book is re- and the Big Bend area, then went to, there was so many in Indian Country.” Lacher a modern crime laboratory. lated to her personal life and continue straight west just Osages there that the vote explores the early twentieth Participants will follow the the influences on her art. north of Osage, Prue and on the project was delayed.” century meteoric rise of the oil investigation of the murders Walnut Creek State Park Regardless of the route, industry and its impact on the in Osage County beginning in before eventually running April 5 – Stillwater the transmission line will re- Osage, Creek, Seminole, and 1921 and compare the events parallel to West 88th Street Community Center, quire a series of 765 kilovolt other tribes. The event takes to modern day investigations. North and reaching a substa- 7 p.m. single circuit lattice towers, place at the OLLI Town Hall tion in Sperry. “Wahzhazhe: An Osage Bal- each standing about 140 feet held in the library. March 20 – Stillwater let” includes a dance perfor- The proposed southern tall with a 40-50 square feet route, which was unveiled in Public Library, 6 p.m. mance by the Osage Student base. mid-January, would have the March 8 – Stillwater Former Osage Nation Muse- Ballet and commentary from In order to qualify for the transmission line turn south History Museum at um Director Kathryn Red Corn director Randy Tinker Smith Department of Energy’s Re- Sheerar, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. will lead a discussion on the in Noble County and head newal Electricity Production “Osage Tribal Murders” doc- towards Drumright in north- A museum exhibit titled, April 12 – OSU Alumni Tax Credit, construction “The Life of Boom and Bust Oil umentary screening. The doc- western Creek County. The has to be underway before Center, 7 p.m. Towns in Payne County,” will umentary recounts, through line would then connect to Dec. 31, 2019, with a high- be featured at the Stillwater interviews and re-enactments, Author David Grann will either an existing PSO sub- er per-kilowatt hour credit Museum of History at Sheer- the 1920s Osage murders, discuss his research and ex- station in Jenks or to the pro- available if building starts ar until June 8. In the 1910s, also known as the “Reign periences in writing the book posed substation in Sperry by in 2018. striking oil could transform a of Terror.” “Killers of the Flower Moon.” way of Mannford and Sand However, in order to get Springs. quiet town into a bustling com- Descendants of Osage named the project online quick- “Certainly, when we looked munity in a matter of days. “In March 24 – Stillwater in the book will share the ef- ly enough, PSO-Oklahoma at the map and planned it to Payne County the discovery of Public Library, fect these events still have on skipped part of the compet- be the most direct route from oil was no different, leading to 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. their families. Book signing itive bidding process for the western Oklahoma to the oil booms and busts through- Osage Cultural Fair – Ex- included. transmission line and is in- Tulsa area,” PSO spokesman out the county. Oil brought perience traditional Osage For more information visit stead seeking a waiver from Stan Whiteford said. “Along new life to the county, but also culture at this family-focused, the website at: http://library. the Oklahoma Corporation the way, with 350 miles, opened more doors for corrup- come-and-go event including stillwater.org/flowermoon.php Commission. A decision is there are a lot of things to expected this spring. take into consideration, in- In addition to having to cluding rivers, creeks, high- seek out a waiver from the do well in the tournament but see him really pushing himself Wrestling ways, other existing facilities OCC, the project also faces was surprised to see them both to get that goal.” –from Page 1 and sensitive environmen- the possibility of additional get first place. The Pawhuska Take Down tal areas. As we imagined, tariffs levied by the state. at the Expo Square Pavilion “I thought they both did a Club has had past success- in Tulsa. The club took seven just about everything has Facing a multimillion-dollar really good job and stayed fo- es with their youth wrestling wrestlers and six came home come up when talking to budget shortfall, the Okla- cused,” he said. “They’ve both team, producing Novice State land owners. homa legislature eliminated with medals, including Pierce Champions in Logan Cass in been working very hard.” “We want to come up with the zero-emission tax credit Kendrick, 8, who was Novice 2015, and Vann Wildcat in Nine-year-old Leighton is in something that is mutually program for new renewable State Champion in Division II. 2016. The current head coach, the 4th grade at Woodland Ele- agreeable for everyone.” energy projects in 2017. Twelve-year-old Deacon is Adam Kendrick, said his wres- mentary School in Fairfax and Although it would not With the state still eyeing a in the 6th grade at Pawhus- tlers are a great group of kids is driven to Pawhuska twice a bring turbines into Osage nine-figure budget gap, leg- ka Elementary School. He and he wasn’t surprised they week for wrestling practice by County, the project drew op- islation has been filed for the wrestled in Division IV at did well at the Novice State his father Bates Shaw. Wood- position from some Osage upcoming 2018 session that the tournament, besting 16 Tournament. land does not have a wrestling Nation citizens during a Jan. would implement a new tax competitors in his bracket to “I’m not surprised we did program. Leighton wrestled 29 open house at the Pawnee on wind production. become state champion. His well, but I was surprised we in Division III, heavy weight, County Fairgrounds. Meanwhile, a proposed six-year-old brother Levi is in came out with four state cham- and bested eight competi- Along with his nephew, wind farm near Fairfax ap- the 1st grade at Indian Camp pions,” Kendrick said, with tors in his bracket to become Hominy resident Scott Lo- pears to be off the table. Elementary School in Pawhus- one of those champions being ka and wrestled in Division I, state champion. hah held up signs near the In late January, more his son Pierce. “They worked besting 44 competitors in his “I know he’s improved fairgrounds, urging area resi- than 20 easement releases very hard and they earned ev- bracket to become state cham- throughout the year and he’s dents not to sign right of way were filed with the Osage ery bit of it.” pion. Their father Dusty Hen- come a long way because of agreements with PSO. A vo- County Courthouse tied to The Pawhuska Take Down dren, Osage, who himself was the great coaching from Adam cal critic of the wind industry a 57,000-acre project initial- Club will head to the OKWA a state runner-up in wrestling Kendrick and the other coach- for more than five years, he ly called Amshore Osage. Regional Open Tournament on for Pawhuska High School in es,” Shaw said. “After his first has protested multiple proj- The project, rebranded as Feb. 3 at Tulsa Edison High his youth, expected his sons to match at Novice State, I could ects, in part because he feels Nemaha Windpower after School. If successful, the quali- the permitting and construc- its initial launch in 2016, fying wrestlers will head to the tion process often overlooks was the subject of multi- 40th OKWA Open State Tour- the feedback from local resi- ple feasibility studies and nament Feb. 9-10, held at the dents. open houses. Oklahoma City Fairgrounds. “My first exposure was Amshore Wind US did not Deacon and Levi are the at the (Osage County) fair- respond to requests for com- sons of Dusty and Courtney grounds,” he said. “Families ment by deadline. Hendren of Pawhuska. Their paternal grandparents are Marty and Tara Hendren and their maternal grandparents are Ken and Laura Corley. Leighton is the son of Bates Shaw of Fairfax and Randa Moore of Fairfax. His paternal grandparents are Edward and Ruth Shaw of Pawhuska and his maternal grandparents LENZY KREHBIEL-BURTON/Osage News are Randy and Melissa Moore The project calls for part of a 360-mile transmission line to potentially of Pawnee. go through southern Osage County. Osage News • osagenews.org February 2018 5

Absentee ballot request forms due April 20 Benny Polacca Osage News

Osages who are incarcerated are allowed to vote in the June 4 general election and must request an absentee ballot request Principal Chief Geoffrey Standing Osage Congresswoman Maria Assistant Principal Chief Raymond Osage Congressman Otto Hamil- form before the April 20 Bear is seeking re-election. Whitehorn is the lone challenger Red Corn is seeking re-election. ton is the lone challenger against deadline along with oth- for principal chief against Stand- Red Corn for assistant chief. er Osages planning to ing Bear. vote early. According to the Osage Nation Election Office Four Executive Branch candidates timeline, April 20 is the final day to submit absentee ballot request forms to certified for 2018 Osage Nation election vote in this year’s election. On April 30, the Election Benny Polacca The four Osages – all cur- Board voted to certify the four and the deadline to do so is Office will begin mailing Osage News rently elected officials or candidates running for Exec- Friday Jan. 12 at the close of out absentee ballots to incumbents – who filed for utive Branch offices. All four business. Should a contest be those who requested them. With only two candidates candidacy in December will candidates passed background filed, a public hearing will be As of Jan. 30, the Elec- running for Osage Nation all appear on the June 4 ballot checks conducted by the ON held to determine the validity tion Office reported it has Principal Chief and two for for voters’ consideration. Prin- Attorney General’s Office, of the contest and the board’s received 2,162 absentee Assistant Principal Chief, cipal Chief Geoffrey Standing which notified the Election Of- verdict shall be final. ballot request forms to there will not be a 2018 pri- Bear is seeking his second fice of the results. The Election Election Supervisor Alex- vote in the general elec- mary election, according to term and ON Congresswoman Office posted the list of the four is Rencountre said she plans tion, making this year an- election officials. Maria Whitehorn has filed her certified candidates following to send out an election notice other record breaker for Those candidates, along candidacy for Principal Chief. the unanimous 3-0 Election to the Osage public advising absentee voting. For the with those running for six seats Assistant Principal Chief Board vote to certify on Jan. of no primary election, which March 2017 special elec- on the ON Congress, Judicial Raymond Red Corn is seek- 9. Election Board members would’ve been held April 2. tion, 2,070 absentee bal- Branch judges up for reten- ing his second term and ON voting that day were Shannon She said there will be a cost lot requests were received tion votes and any questions Congressman Otto Hamilton Lockett (chairwoman), Terry savings to the Nation, consid- to vote. referred for a yes or no votes has filed his candidacy for As- Hazen and Belle Wilson. ering there will be no printing For the June 2016 gen- will be on the ballot for the Na- sistant Principal Chief. Jan. 8 Per the Nation’s Election expenses for primary election eral election, 1,930 Osages tion’s June 4 general election. was the final day of the month- Code there is a three-day win- ballots, but that dollar amount requested absentee ballots Election Day voting will take long filing period to run for dow for qualified Osage voters wasn’t immediately available. to vote that year. place at the ON Museum and those two offices with no oth- to contest the candidacy of the The next Election Board meet- This year, the offices for two days of early voting will be er individuals filing at the ON four certified candidates. Any ing is scheduled Feb. 13 at 1 Principal Chief, Assistant held at the ON Election Office Election Office. contest of candidacy shall be p.m. at the Election Office, 608 Principal Chief and six in downtown Pawhuska. The next day, the Election filed with the Election Office Kihekah Ave. in Pawhuska. seats on the ON Congress will be open for four-year terms. Also on the ballot will be the ON Judicial Osage Nation officials Branch judges who will be up for yes/no retention votes to serve another celebrate ribbon cutting four-year term. All marked absentee ballots must be mailed for new Tulsa WIC Clinic back to the Pawhuska Benny Polacca great step forward, we’re all in mailing address listed Osage News support, if you need anything, on the ballot return en- as usual, let us know.” velope before election day to be counted toward TULSA, Okla. – The north Assistant Principal Chief the results. side of this city will soon have Raymond Red Corn applauded During the Jan. 9 Elec- a new Women, Infants and Taylor and the WIC employees tion Board meeting, the Children (WIC) clinic to help for their work, as did present discussion briefly touched provide area mothers and chil- Congress members Otto Ham- on what Osages need to dren with supplemental foods ilton and Maria Whitehorn. BENNY POLACCA/Osage News submit in order to vote by and nutrition education. The Tulsa facility is the Osage Nation government officials, building professionals and Women, absentee ballot. Congress- ON government officials, largest ON-operated WIC fa- Infants and Children (WIC) workers celebrate the building completion of woman Alice Goodfox WIC employees and building cility at 3,000 square feet “and a new Tulsa WIC Clinic on Jan. 22. asked the election board professionals attended a rib- will enable us to better serve and staff on behalf of in- bon cutting ceremony for the our nearly 2,000 participants dividuals she knows who newly-built Tulsa WIC clinic that will utilize this site per are doing prison time. on Jan. 22 and congratulated month. It is currently open “I know three Osag- es that are incarcerated the WIC Department on the four days a week with plans right now – one I stay in near-completion of the build- to open five days a week – two ing that will soon serve clients touch with – and he wants weeks out of the month – in living in Tulsa or nearby com- to vote,” Goodfox said in the near future because of high munities. The new WIC clinic asking what incarcerated participant demand,” Malone is at 904 W. 36th St. N., which tribal members need to do said. “WIC provides valuable for submitting absentee is directly across from the Tul- nutritious foods, nutrition ed- ballot requests. sa Osage Casino and sits just ucation, breastfeeding and “We’ve had at least a inside the southern Osage peer counseling support and couple of different forms County boundary. a farmer’s market (from June of IDs from incarcerated” Manon Taylor, ON WIC De- to September) to all income-el- individuals, said Election partment director, was absent BENNY POLACCA/Osage News igible participants and we now Board Chairwoman Shan- that day due to illness, but The new Tulsa WIC clinic features a kitchen with a viewing and demon- non Lockett. offer those benefits with an stration area for food preparation and nutrition classes. WIC nutrition worker Aman- “They can submit the EBT (electronic benefit trans- da Malone delivered remarks (absentee ballot request) fer) card.” on Taylor’s behalf. The Tulsa form” and can submit pho- The new Tulsa WIC clinic WIC clinic is one of six serv- tocopies of prison identi- will also “alleviate transpor- ing the Nation’s jurisdictional fication cards, if possible, tation barriers by being locat- boundaries and the Tulsa fa- said Election Supervisor cility was built with $800,000 ed near the (city’s) public bus Alexis Rencountre. She in federal funding awarded to stop,” said Malone, which was also recommended incar- the Nation, Malone said. a concern Taylor stated when cerated voters list their Department of Corrections When the new Tulsa WIC a groundbreaking celebration identification number to clinic opens at a near future was held for the clinic in Au- help locate a photo online date, it will replace the cur- gust 2017. She also said three nearby metro WIC clinics of the individual. “Some- rent Tulsa WIC unit housed times we have to go out closed last year, meaning the at the Nation-owned Tulsa and do the research to find ON Tulsa WIC clinic’s partic- Airpark property next to the the mugshot ourselves in ipant level will likely increase. casino and Osage Casino Cen- order to complete the (ab- tral Services offices. Pending According to a news release, BENNY POLACCA/Osage News sentee ballot) request for final construction and utility the Tulsa WIC clinic ameni- The new Tulsa WIC Clinic is located along 36th Street North across from them and we have done work, the current Tulsa WIC ties offer “families a place to the Tulsa Osage Casino and the forthcoming hotel/ casino property. that before,” Rencountre unit will remain open as usual, find resources such as breast- told Goodfox. have a dedicated play area (in tural professions who worked Taylor said. feeding and nutrition tips in a For more information the) lobby.” on the Tulsa WIC clinic are At the ribbon cutting event, more efficiently designed space on the general election The clinic kitchen also con- ON Language Director Vann to provide even better custom- from Tulsa-based Triarch Ar- and to download voter tains a nearby viewing area Bighorse delivered the open- er service. The non-commer- chitecture and Builder’s Un- forms for address updates for participants to observe the and absentee requests, ing prayer in the Osage and cial kitchen will (be used for limited, Inc. contact the ON Election English languages and ON nutrition classes to) prepare nutrition and cooking courses. For more information about Office toll-free at (877) government officials spoke. recipes using WIC foods and Offices and rooms specified for the Osage Nation WIC pro- 560-5286 or visit its web- Principal Chief Geoffrey offer samples to families en- breastfeeding participants are site at: www.osagena- couraging creative and inven- also in the clinic. gram, visit: https://www. Standing Bear told the WIC tion-nsn.gov/what-we-do/ osagenation-nsn.gov/what-we- employees present: “Our job tive ways to prepare meals Building construction, proj- elections is to support you … This is a at home. The clinic will also ect management and architec- do/wic-department. 6 February 2018 Osage News • osagenews.org

All Candidate Debates will be held at the Osage Hotel & Casino Skiatook. All debates will be live streamed. Newspaper coverage of the debates will appear in the Osage News March edition and the May Spe- cial Election Edition.

Watch the Osage News Facebook and Twitter pages for updates.

The Osage public can submit questions for the candidates prior to the debates. Please stipulate which debate your question is for. For more information, please email us at osagenews@osagenation-nsn. gov, message us on Facebook, or call us at (918) 287-5668. Osage News • osagenews.org February 2018 7

ONPD working to renew BIA Oklahoma Indian Legal commissions after Osage Services, serving Native Oklahomans for 37 years County Sheriff nixes Cross- Osage News Oklahoma Indian Le- Commission Agreement gal Services wants tribal members across Oklaho- Shannon Shaw Duty ma to know they are here Osage News to help. OILS is a nonprofit le- Osage Nation Police Chief gal service providing free Nick Williams said the depart- legal representation to low-income citizens facing Courtesy Photo/ ment is working with the Bu- Oklahoma Indian Legal Services reau of Indian Affairs to renew issues with federal Indian the commissions of 13 Osage law and has been around OILS is a nonprofit legal service police officers, to be able to since 1981, according to providing free legal representation to low-income citizens facing enforce State Law on non-Na- a news release. It is part issues with federal Indian law and tives within Indian Country of the same network as has been around since 1981 without relying on cross-com- Legal Aid Services of missions with the Osage Coun- Oklahoma and employs ty Sheriff’s Office. six attorneys who provide legal services to tribal members The ON police officers have across the state. been at an impasse after Osage “There is a real issue in the United States with people County Sheriff Eddie Virden who are employed that still can’t afford an attorney. There Osage News File Photo verbally pulled their commis- are many people representing themselves in state district sion cards on Nov. 28, 2017, Osage Nation Police is working to renew BIA commissions after Osage and tribal courts,” said Stephanie Hudson, Executive Direc- preventing them from issu- County Sheriff nixes Cross-Commission Agreement. tor of OILS. According to Hudson, issues that tribal members face can ing tickets or making arrests ONPD did not question the class, where they study Indian be issues involving the Indian Child Welfare Act, probate on state lands and against expiration due to the long run- Law and Courts of Jurisdic- on restricted Indian lands, wills for trust and restricted In- non-Natives in Indian Coun- ning cross commission and tion. After testing out of the dian lands, tribal housing problems, tribal sovereignty and try. According to Oklahoma working relationship (20+ academy, they will go through individual rights. Individual tribal members can find it dif- state law Title 21-99, which years) with the Osage Coun- an adjudication process and ficult to navigate the different federal laws, state laws, ad- passed in 2013, tribal officers ty Sheriff’s Office. Due to the fill out paperwork that is sub- ministrative codes and tribal laws that can be encountered shall have state police powers cross commission, SLEC’s mitted to the BIA and the when dealing with land or child welfare issues, according to to enforce state laws in Indian were not needed to enforce FBI. Williams said that since the release. Country while in possession of State Law on non-Natives in the 13 Osage officers have all “There is a large opioid crisis going on in Oklahoma,” a BIA commission. Indian Country.” previously held SLECs, they Hudson said in the release. “What a lot of citizens don’t re- “Due to failed negotiations Osage Nation police officers are required to attend CJIC alize is if the Indian Child Welfare Act is not followed, the ONPD has been in the pro- were cross-deputized by the class where they will be up- guardianship could be vacated later.” cess to get their Special Law Osage County Sheriff’s Office dated on legal issues and learn OILS is required to follow federal poverty guidelines Enforcement Commissions during the tenure of Sheriff Ty about case law and studies when determining who can receive assistance. Their prima- through the BIA to enforce Koch about 10 years ago, ac- currently taking place within ry funder is the Legal Services Corporation in Washington, State Law on Non-Natives cording to The Bigheart Times. D.C. Their guidelines allow OILS to provide services to ap- within Indian Country Juris- And according to former ON Indian Country. plicants whose family income does not exceed 125% of the diction,” Williams said. “ONPD Chief of Police John Drexil, he “This is not included with federal poverty guidelines, she said. is expecting the process to be has had a commission through the State Classes to which “It does cut out some people who are employed from be- done mid-to-late March, with the Osage County Sheriff’s ONPD is required to take each ing able to receive our services,” she said. However, Hud- the help of the U.S. Attorney office for the last 22 years year to maintain their Okla- son said there are options for those who don’t meet the General’s office, BIA and the through previous Sheriff’s in homa CLEET certifications,” guidelines including organizations like the Oklahoma Bar Department of Interior, since office, Williams said. he said. Association and the Indian Law Section of the Oklahoma all of ONPD had previously Williams said the process for Williams said he hopes the Bar Association. held SLEC’s. an officer to obtain their SLEC ONPD officers will be finished If you have a legal issue that does not involve federal “The SLEC’s had expired is the officer attends Criminal with the SLEC process by Indian law, Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma takes applica- within this past year, which Jurisdiction in Indian Country mid-March. tions by telephone. Their phone number is 1-888-534-5243. Tribal members in Oklahoma with a federal Indian law issue can apply for services with Oklahoma Indian Legal Services. Applications are completed by telephone. Please Callers representing more than 50 Tribal call 1-800-658-1497. Nations reach out to StrongHearts Native Helpline for culturally-based support By Mallory Black StrongHearts Native Helpline

AUSTIN, TEXAS – In its first eight months of operations, the StrongHearts Native Helpline (1-844-7NATIVE) has taken calls from Native Americans affected by domestic violence representing 53 tribal nations across 38 states, demonstrating the widespread CHALENE TOEHAY-TARTSAH/Osage News need for culturally-rooted resources to support tribal com- Vann Bighorse (center) sings for the handgame demonstration at the olence in tribal communities. Indigenous Women’s Resource Braiding the Sacred Gathering of Traditional Corn Growers event in munities affected by intimate According to a recent study by Center, the National Domes- Pawhuska on Nov. 3, 2017. partner abuse. National Institute of Justice, tic Violence Hotline, and the Since March, the Strong- more than one in two Native Hearts Native Helpline, the Family Violence Prevention women and one in three Na- first, national crisis line for and Services Program, is a tive men have experienced Vann Bighorse named American Indian, Alaska Na- culturally-appropriate, anony- physical violence by intimate tive and Native Hawaiians mous, confidential and no-cost partners in their lifetime. facing domestic violence and as director of the Osage Through StrongHearts, service dedicated to serving dating violence, has responded trained advocates offer callers Native American survivors of to the unique needs of Native emotional support, assistance domestic violence and dating Language Department victims of abuse, who histor- with safety planning, infor- violence, along with their con- Shannon Shaw Duty tending a meeting on proposed ically have lacked access to mation and education, and cerned family members and 30-foot statues of Osages, supportive services. Strong- Osage News referrals to culturally specific friends. By dialing 1-844-7NA- which later became the Osage Hearts advocates are trained resources. Callers after hours Vann Bighorse is the new Trail Legacy and was unveiled to navigate each caller’s abuse TIVE (1-844-762-8483) Mon- will have the option to connect Director of the Osage Nation in September of last year. At situation with a deep under- day through Friday from 9 with the National Domestic the meeting Bighorse prayed standing of tribal communi- a.m. to 5:30 p.m. CST, callers Language Department as of Violence Hotline or to call back in Osage as Cuba officials and ties, culture and tradition. can connect at no cost one- Dec. 1. on the next business day. residents listened. He said he “We are honored by those on-one with knowledgeable As Language Director, “Domestic violence is one of and Bighorse talked after the reaching out because we know he oversees one of the Na- the biggest public safety issues StrongHearts advocates who meeting about the fact that the Native people really do face tion’s most important cul- in tribal communities, yet so can provide lifesaving tools Osage language had not been unique barriers to safety and tural initiatives, saving the many Native survivors aren’t and immediate support to en- uttered in Missouri for nearly justice in their communities,” Osage language. getting the culturally support- able survivors to find safety 200 years until that moment said Lori Jump (Sault Ste. Ma- “Vann was director of our ive services they so desperate- and live lives free of abuse. when Bighorse prayed. rie Tribe of Chippewa Indians), cultural department and he ly need,” said Caroline LaPorte Learn more about the Strong- “He said, ‘You know chief, StrongHearts Assistant Direc- went to work for the Bureau of (Little River Band of Ottawa this language is so endan- tor. “In many cases, a victim of Hearts Native Helpline at Indian Affairs. We were really Indians), StrongHearts Senior gered, we’re on the last train domestic violence may feel like www.strongheartshelpline.org. glad to see him return to the Native Affairs Policy Advisor. out.’ Right then almost four there’s nowhere left to turn to This project described was Osage Nation to share his tal- “Our advocates help fill the years ago, the way he said it made possible by Grant Num- ent and experience,” said Prin- for help. Our goal is to provide gave me the sense of urgency gap by listening to and re- cipal Chief Geoffrey Standing a safe space for Native survi- ber 90EV0426 from the Admin- you have seen me display in sponding to the complex needs Bear. “As head of the language vors, where they can reach istration on Children, Youth our language preservation and of our callers, but the need for department, I think he is the out for help anonymously and Families, Family and recovery,” Standing Bear said. more resources is clear.” right person at the right time.” and safely.” Youth Services Bureau, U.S. “Because we are not losing it The StrongHearts Native Standing Bear said the Department of Health and Hu- anymore, we are gaining it.” About StrongHearts Osage language is in a peri- Helpline, a collaborative proj- As Language Director, Big- man Services. Its contents are od of preservation and recov- ect of the National Indigenous Native Helpline horse will oversee the Pawhus- solely the responsibility of the ery. He told a story of when Women’s Resource Center and Created by and built to ka Language Department and authors and do not necessarily he, Bighorse and his Senior the National Domestic Vio- serve tribal communities its staff of teachers, language lence Hotline, was created to across the United States, the represent the official views of Advisor, John Williams, went respond to the epidemic of do- StrongHearts Native Help- the U.S. Department of Health to Cuba, Mo., together nearly See Bighorse mestic violence and dating vi- line, a project of the National and Human Services. four years ago. They were at- —Continued on Page 16 8 February 2018 Osage News • osagenews.org

Filing for Osage Congressional Second Annual Sherman candidates starts Feb. 6 Alexie scholarship announced Benny Polacca for IAIA MFA program Osage News Osage News The Institute of American Osages interested in run- Indian Arts has announced ning for Osage Nation Con- its second annual Sherman gress may file for candidacy Alexie Scholarship for their starting Feb. 6 with the Elec- Low Residency MFA in Cre- tion Office in Pawhuska. ative writing program. The The filing period for Congres- scholarship will pay $7,500 a sional candidates ends March semester for four semesters. 12 at the close of business day, “This is a great opportu- according to the ON Election nity for an aspiring writer Office. During the filing period, to attend the MFA program the Nation’s government oper- without incurring debt,” Osage News File Photo ations will be closed Feb. 19 for said Jon Davis, Director President’s Day. Osages interested in running for Osage Nation Congress may file for can- of the MFA program in an Lee Towndrow Six seats on the 12-member didacy starting Feb. 6 with the Election Office in Pawhuska. IAIA news release. “And Congress will be open in the Sherman Alexie ed. No member of the Osage candidate’s campaign upon the even better news is that June 4 General Election. Vot- we’ll distribute an addition- Nation Congress shall hold filing. All candidates will be ing will be held that day at the al $130,000 to the incoming PEN/Hemingway Citation any other tribal office under required to provide two finan- ON Museum and there will be students who do not receive for Best First Fiction, and another Indian nation during cial reports documenting all two days of early voting June the Alexie Scholarship.” the National Book Award for his/ her term of office.” 1-2 at the ON Election Office campaign expenditures and The scholarship is a total Young People’s Literature, All candidates will also be located at 608 Kihekah. donations, including the can- of $30,000, of which $24,000 Sherman Alexie is a poet, provided copies of election-re- According to the Osage Con- didate’s personal funds used will be applied to tuition. short story writer, novelist, lated forms, a timeline of im- stitution: “Enrolled members for campaign purposes, ac- The remaining $6,000 will and performer. portant dates, events and of the Osage Nation, who are cording to the election rules help pay for travel, lodging, He has published 26 books deadlines and copies of the at least 25 years of age on and regulations. books, and meals during the including his recently re- Nation’s election code and the date of the election, who The ON Election Office web- five residencies in Santa Fe, leased memoir, “You Don’t election rules and regulations. have never been convicted of site also contains other forms according to the release. Have to Say You Love Me,” The filing fee to run for ON Thun- a felony, are eligible to serve and information on the 2018 The winner of the First his first picture book, “ as members of the Osage elected office is due when filing der Boy Jr.,” and the young election including address up- Annual Sherman Alexie Nation Congress.” in-person, which is $300 for Scholarship was Jamie Na- adult novel, “The Absolutely date forms, absentee ballot re- The Constitution also states: Congressional candidates and tonabah (Diné) from Fort True Diary of a Part-Time quest forms and information on “No member of the Osage Na- can be in the form of a cashier’s Defiance, Ariz. Chelsea Indian,” all from Little, tion Congress shall hold any check or money order. Candi- the privacy program regarding Hicks Bryan (Osage) was Brown Books; “What I’ve other tribal office or position of dates will also be required to voter information listed on the chosen as runner-up. Third Stolen, What I’ve Earned,” a profit under the Osage Nation provide proof of establishing voter registry list. The website place was awarded to Grace book of poetry, from Hang- during the term for which the a separate bank account in is at: www.osagenation-nsn. Randolph (Wampanoag). ing Loose Press; and “Blas- member is elected or appoint- the name of the candidate or gov/what-we-do/elections All applicants to the In- phemy: New and Selected stitute of American Indian Stories,” from Grove Press. Arts’ MFA in Creative Writ- He has also published the ing who are enrolled mem- 20th Anniversary edition of bers of a Native American his classic book of stories, Dr. Shaw delivers first report tribe or First Nation are el- “The Lone Ranger and Tonto igible. Proof of enrollment Fistfight in Heaven.” will be required. To apply “Smoke Signals,” the mov- to Health Authority Board for the scholarship, complete ie he wrote and co-produced, Benny Polacca an application to the IAIA won the Audience Award and Filmmakers Trophy at Osage News MFA program. The application can be found by click- the 1998 Sundance Film After two weeks at his new ing here. The application, Festival. post, Dr. Ron Shaw delivered including the writing sam- A Spokane/Coeur d’Alene his first report to the Osage ples, will be the competition Indian, Alexie grew up in Nation Health Authority entry. Applicants should pay Wellpinit, Wash., on the Board as Chief Medical Officer close attention to the page Spokane Indian Reserva- and Chief Executive Officer of limits; additional pages over tion. He has been an urban the Wah-Zha-Zhi Health Cen- the limit will not be read, ac- Indian since 1994 and lives ter on Jan. 18. cording to the release. in Seattle with his family. Shaw said he surveyed “the The screening of entries different structures we have and final selection of the About IAIA in place, tried to get an idea Sherman Alexie scholarship Offering undergraduate of what personnel we have recipient will be done by a degrees in Studio Arts, Cre- and policies and procedures” panel of IAIA MFA’s Native ative Writing, Cinematic as he tried to familiarize him- faculty. Arts and Technology, In- self with the various services The deadline is Feb. 15, at digenous Liberal Studies, and features at the Pawhuska midnight MDT. Late entries and Museum Studies – a clinic. The health board met will not be accepted. The minor in Performing Arts that day with Shaw providing SHANNON SHAW DUTY/Osage News winner will be announced – an MFA in Creative Writ- a brief report, which included Dr. Ron Shaw on March 16. Finalists may ing – along with certificates an update that a renovation also be offered scholarships. in Business and Entrepre- project for the clinic reception dations, Shaw said the newly Kah Session) for these one- Winner must enroll for the neurship, Museum Studies, area was completed that day built women’s Primary Resi- time (furniture) and recurring July 21-29, pre-fall semester and Native American Art including new countertops dential Treatment will need (monitors) expenses. The PRT residency. All entrants will History – IAIA is the only and flooring. furniture, as well as funding has not received tribal fund- be notified by email. college in the nation dedicat- “My immediate priorities to hire monitors for the cli- ing in the past and furnishing The scholarship will be ed to the study of contempo- are to improve accessibility to ents. Shaw said 3.5 full-time and staffing the two separate contingent on the student rary Native arts. The school clinic medical services, contin- employees will be needed for (men’s and women’s) facili- remaining in good academ- serves 517 full time equiva- ue to institute evidence-based the women’s PRT facility and ties will require more funding ic standing throughout the lent Native and non-Native medical practices and improve the federal Native American for operations. At the present two-year program. American college students revenue to fund clinic ser- Housing Assistance and Self time, there are no monies from from across the globe. IAIA vices,” Shaw told the board Determination Act (NAHAS- within the clinic budget for ad- About Sherman Alexie is accredited by the Higher in prepared remarks. “My DA) funding used to construct dressing these needs.” According to the release, Learning Commission – and the facility did not cover fur- time allocation for the first six In related news, Stabler said Alexie is the winner of the is the only college in New nishings besides built-in fix- months will be 80-90 percent in her board report that Rum- PEN/Faulkner Award for Mexico accredited by the Na- tures such as a dishwasher, administrative and 10-20 per- sey will work at the WHC on Fiction, the PEN/Malamud tional Association of Schools stove and washer and dryer. cent clinical” for patient visits. a part-time contract basis. She Award for Short Fiction, a of Art and Design. Shaw said the men’s PRT In working toward his initial said Rumsey recently start- goals, Shaw said he worked furniture is “pretty worn and used, I think this is a reason- ed his first work contract day on staff schedule changes to and had 17 patients booked, “maximize the number of pro- able time to upgrade the furni- but only 11 showed up for vider slots on the schedule, we ture,” which includes a couch, the appointments. want to stagger their days so chairs and dining room table. For more information on they are maximally useful in At the meeting, Shaw did the best interest of the Na- not yet have estimates on the clinic services and appoint- tion.” Shaw also recommend- costs for furniture and the PRT ments, the Wah-Zha-Zhi ed another provider be hired monitors but told the board Health Center can be reached at the clinic such as a “family “I recommend we request a at (918) 287-9300 or visit its nurse practitioner or other supplemental appropriation website at: www.osagena- mid-level, including a (physi- from the (ON) Congress in tion-nsn.gov/what-we-do/ cian assistant).” April (during the 2018 Hun- wah-zha-zhi-health-center The recommended hiring spot will fill the clinic vacan- cy after Dr. Cameron Rumsey (Osage) left the WHC in De- cember and now works at the How to submit a Pawhuska Hospital. Other WHC providers include Drs. Letter to the Editor Shea and Bighorse, as well as Nurse Practitioner Kimberly If you would like to submit a letter to the ed- Holt, Shaw said. itor, please mail it to the Osage News, Attn.: Manon Tillman, a former Shannon Shaw Duty, 604 Kihekah, Pawhus- health and social services divi- ka, OK 74056 or send email to sshaw@osag- sion leader under the Nation’s etribe.org. old health organization structure, continues as a special Letters must be respectful and informative advisor to the CEO and Paula to the reader, and may be edited for gram- Stabler will remain clinic man- mar, clarity and space. ager for the WHC, Shaw said. As for future recommen- Osage News • osagenews.org February 2018 9

Three Osage County Influenza update and the producers challenge precautions you should take Dr. Ron Shaw EPA shutdown order Wah-Zha-Zhi Health Center Lenzy Krehbiel-Burton Osage News Influenza (the “flu”) is caused by a virus whose pro- TULSA — Three Osage County producers are challenging tein component typically may a shutdown order from the Environmental Protection Agen- change year to year. To adjust cy for seven wells along Bird Creek. for changes in this protein On Friday, attorneys for Jireh Resources LLC, Novy Oil component and to best in- and Gas and Warren American Oil Company LLC filed civil duce the formation of specific complaints in the Northern District of Oklahoma, claiming protective antibodies, the flu that the agency does not have enough proof that their wells vaccine formula changes year are responsible for contaminating Bird Creek. to year based on predictions “The totality of the evidence does not support ongoing of the most prevalent strains/ Osage News File Photo contamination,” attorneys Valerie Giebel, John Randolph protein components expected and Robert Winter wrote on behalf of Jireh Resources. “It for the upcoming year. So, each The Wah-Zha-Zhi Health Center is located on the Osage Campus in was the result of a one-time event. There have been no visi- year’s vaccine components are Pawhuska. ble hydrocarbons currently in the water and no signs of hy- based in part on an educated • Chronic lung or to 14 days to acquire protec- drocarbons in the sands, rocks or gravels.” estimate of influenza strains heart disease tive antibody levels. Citing the Safe Drinking Water Act, the EPA ordered expected for the next year’s 2. If you come in close/house- the three companies in December to shut down a combined • Pregnant patients flu epidemic. hold contact with someone seven wells west of the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve along a The current year’s flu vac- If you have influenza and do who has been diagnosed or northern tributary of Bird Creek. cine/shot has been estimated The pollution first came to light in August 2016, when an not take antibiotic medication treated for the flu, medi- to be only 10-40% effective oily sheen, extreme salinity levels and dead aquatic animals it is highly likely that you will cation can be prescribed to against acquiring the cur- were noticed on a tributary-fed pond on Chapman Ranch. get better with no antibiotic reduce your risk of caching rent strains of influenza most Initially thought to be caused by a wastewater spill or il- treatment. the flu in the short term. of which are influenza A legal dumping, the EPA announced in July that it traced If a household member is 3. The flu can result in serious the contamination to over-pressurized reservoirs connected -H3N2(85%) but it’s important diagnosed with the flu, there to understand that the flu shot complications and should to the seven wells. That in turn prompted the EPA to is- is preventive medication that you suspect you have the sue a temporary shutdown order in August and in accor- in its most effective years may one may take for seven days flu and were not able to be dance with federal law, held a public hearing on the matter be no more than 60-70% effec- to greatly reduce the risk of seen or treated within 3 in October. tive. Nonetheless, the flu shot “catching” the flu and should days of the onset of symp- The three Tulsa companies also maintain that they offers significant protection for be started as soon as possible. were not given sufficient opportunity to put their rebuttal those who receive the vaccine. If you have received this toms, watch for persistent arguments into the public record both at the hearing and For this year,1-4 out of 10 who year’s flu vaccine all precau- high fevers, shortness of afterwards before the final shutdown order was issued receive the flu vaccine will be tions against catching the flu breath, dizziness as poten- in December. protected against acquiring should still be taken because of tial signs of a complicat- “The order ignored substantial evidence,” Warren Ameri- the disease which is still sub- the limited protection afforded ing illness. (Most will not can’s attorneys wrote in the civil complaint. “The defendants stantial protection, particu- by the vaccine. Frequent hand- develop complications and made no attempt to understand and ignored the evidence in larly for the very young and washing, cough etiquette and will not require antibiotics the record.” the elderly. staying home if sick with fe- or even an office visit if oth- According to court documents, at the time the order was Many of those who develop ver (invest in a thermometer), erwise healthy)) issued, Jireh Resources still had a Freedom of Information flu symptoms (during seasonal should still be observed. Act request pending with the EPA in an effort to fortify its flu epidemics) such as fever, It is important to realize argument against the shutdown order. The Wah-Zha-Zhi Health aches, cough, congestion, and that the flu can result in com- “The EPA’s issuance of the final order without any ad- Center offers the influenza vac- even diarrhea and vomiting plications including pneumo- vance notice or fair warning … has effectively denied Jireh cine/flu shots to all established in children, have influenza nia, hospitalization and even of any reasonable opportunity to conduct this appeal based patients on a walk-in basis. If and do not require testing. death. The people most at risk on the full and complete record, consisting of all evidence While anti-viral treatment is are those in the above catego- you are not an established pa- deemed relevant to the parties hereto,” Giebel, Randolph available, it is most effective if tient but are of American In- and Winter wrote. ries. started within 48 hours of the dian descent bring your tribal At the Osage Minerals Council’s Jan. 17 meeting, OMC onset of symptoms. ID/CDIB and social security director Bill Lynn said the situation has cost the estate’s To summarize: It is indicated in all patient card and you may establish a shareholders about 70 lost barrels per day. 1. Even though this year’s who are at increased risk in- chart and receive the vaccine A spokeswoman for the EPA’s Dallas-based Region flu shot is less effective cluding: 6 office, which includes Oklahoma and the Osage Na- this year, it still provides on the same visit. tion in its purview, did not respond to calls Thursday • Diabetes substantial protection and For more information on the seeking comment. Wah-Zha-Zhi Health Center, • Age - 50 those who are unvaccinat- ed should still receive it. Be the flu vaccine, or establishing • Age - 2 aware that after receiving a chart, please call the WHC at ON Congress passes • American Indians the vaccine, it may take up (918) 287-9300. bills allowing armed State lawmakers to consider bills casino security Benny Polacca the Nation’s Gaming Commis- directly affecting Indian Country Osage News sion advised there was noth- Lenzy Krehbiel-Burton ular session but failed. On ma Native American Day. The ing in law to authorize the Osage News Jan. 19, the notion was among day is currently observed on After a two-day January armed status. the amendments tacked on to the third Monday in November special session, the Fifth Osage ON Attorney General Holli OKLAHOMA CITY — When Gov. Mary Fallin’s call for the by the state, but with Tulsa Nation Congress approved two Wells said ONPD will continue the Oklahoma Legislature re- Oklahoma Legislature’s sec- and other communities across amendments to the Nation’s patrol rounds, which include convenes in February, a hand- ond special session. As of press Oklahoma recognizing it in gaming law that authorizes the seven Osage Casinos in ful of measures aimed directly time, the second special ses- October in lieu of Columbus Osage Casino security person- addition to having armed secu- at Indian Country are among sion has been in recess since Day, the term-limited Cher- nel to be armed and use force if rity again. Whitehorn said the the nearly 2,000 new bills Dec. 22. okee Nation citizen said the necessary while on duty. bill “allows for different levels awaiting its members. Additionally, Senate Bill bill is an effort to simply draw The ON Gaming Enterprise of security,” which will be a With the state facing a mul- 1206 from Sen. Josh Brecheen more attention. Board, casino management policy decision by casino and timillion-dollar shortfall and (R-Coalgate) would require “I’m just trying to get more and Congress members worked gaming officials on the number tribal gaming compacts set to both chambers of the legisla- people aware of it (Oklahoma on the legislation before pass- of officers who will be trained potentially expire in 2020, two ture to be included in compact Native American Day). The In- ing the bills on Jan. 18. Prin- and armed. measures out of the Senate negotiations moving forward. ter-Tribal Council of the Five cipal Chief Geoffrey Standing Discussion on armed securi- would potentially put a great- Brecheen, whose southern Civilized Tribes has passed a Bear signed the bills into law ty picked up following the Oct. er onus on tribes to help shore Oklahoma district straddles resolution in support of it,” he after the session ended. 1, 2017 Las Vegas shooting up revenue. the boundary between the said. “If you can provide more At the start of the Jan. 17 where a gunman opened fire Under their current terms, Choctaw and Chickasaw na- uniformity, it will simply draw session, Standing Bear said: from his Mandalay Bay hotel the state-tribal compacts in- tions, did not deny that the more attention to the fact that “The recommendation from the tower suite targeting a nearby clude “evergreen clauses,” state’s budget woes and a de- the day exists.” gaming board is for legislation country music festival that left which mean they carry on if sire to avoid tax increases on in- House Bill 2999 from Rep. authorizing armed security 58 attendees dead and hun- both parties are still satisfied dividual voters played a factor Mike Osburn (R-Oklahoma personnel for Osage Casinos. dreds injured before the gun- with the terms. in the decision to sponsor this City) would allow for tribes to There is currently no legisla- man fatally shot himself. Senate Bill 1195, filed by measure. However, he also said take out infrastructure loans tion approved to have armed At the October gaming board Sen. Greg McCortney (R-Ada), the measure is an effort to try through the Clean Water security officers at Osage Ca- meeting, Osage Casino CEO would expand state-tribal to bolster the state’s position State Revolving Fund program sinos … The training levels Byron Bighorse said man- gaming compacts to allow for at the negotiating table while administered by the Oklaho- for the casino security would agement would be working betting on sporting events increasing accountability. ma Water Resources Board. match or exceed current ex- through details on security for and “non-house banked table “If you look at most tribes, Examples of projects covered pectations for CLEET-certified updates, especially after the games,” including craps and their legislatures have to ap- by the fund include improve- armed security officers utilized shootings and with the Tulsa roulette. In exchange, tribes prove these agreements,” he ments to water or sewage throughout the state of Okla- casino and hotel construction that sign off on the extra pro- said. “For Oklahoma’s side treatment systems, watershed homa and the United States.” in progress. visions will be required to of negotiations, we rely com- management efforts or drink- The Congress passed bill Interim gaming board mem- pay the state 10 percent of its pletely on the governor – ing water distribution. ONCA 18-02 (sponsored by ber Julie Malone told the monthly net winnings from whoever that may be – and I State Sen. Eddie Fields Congresswoman Maria White- Congressional committee the each new game as an exclusiv- don’t believe that we are posi- (R-Wynona) filed a similar tioning ourselves in the best horn), which is an “Act to legislation is not intended to ity fee. measure, Senate Bill 1574, in According to a study com- tactical approach. insert a new section on law- replace ONPD patrols, but the other chamber. ful use of force by security missioned by the Oklahoma “If we put more seats at the Senate Bill 1026 from Sen. there would be a need to react personnel” into the Osage Indian Gaming Commission, table, there’ll be more people Lonnie Paxton (R-Tuttle) and control security situations, gaming law. tribal casinos have paid the looking at these agreements.” would allow for any federal- if one occurred. Casino Securi- During a Congressional state more than $1.1 billion in Meanwhile, four non-gam- ly-recognized tribe to enter ty Director Jim Redcorn told Commerce, Gaming and Land exclusivity fees since the im- ing bills are also up for possi- into cross-deputization agree- the committee having armed Committee meeting to discuss plementation of Oklahoma’s ble consideration this session. ments with the Oklahoma security is part of “being pro- the legislation, Whitehorn said Class III gaming compacts Filed by Rep. Chuck Hoskin State Bureau of Investigation. active” for patrol duties. casino security was armed in in 2006. Sr. (D-Vinita), House Bill 2661 The regular legislative earlier years, but the practice See Security A similar measure was in- would designate the second session is scheduled to start stopped 2-3 years ago when —Continued on Page 21 troduced during the 2017 reg- Monday in October as Oklaho- Feb. 5. 10 February 2018 Osage News • osagenews.org

Northern California Osage hosting April 22 gathering near Sacramento Benny Polacca ing better and plans to work Osage News the April 22 NCO gathering registration desk as long as After a recent change in she is able. planning leadership, the “I feel grateful that Kar- Northern California Osage or- en Elliott, Melani King, and ganization is hosting its April Chuck Maker are continuing 22 gathering in the Sacramen- to assist with guiding and fa- to area. cilitating important elements The changes come after of the organization and want long-time NCO Steering Com- to acknowledge Duane BigEa- mittee members Karen Elliott gle for his years of commit- and Duane BigEagle stepped ment and service to our people. down and newer committee We will miss him on the com- member Keir Johnson-Reyes mittee but look forward to his said he would plan the next Courtesy Photo participation as he is able,” NCO gathering to keep the 20- Johnson-Reyes said. “We are Osage News 2013 File Photo Karen Elliott, longtime Treasurer plus year NCO gathering tra- all glad for the Steering Com- dition going. Duane BigEagle and Congresswoman Shannon Edwards at the Northern of the Northern California Osage California Osage fall meeting in Petaluma, Calif., on Nov. 2, 2013. association. mittee members who have The April 22 NCO gather- stepped up over the last few ing will be held at the Fairfield base of operations to the Sac- in northern California – This who live closer to the area. “It years - Sarah Boyle, Amiee In- Inn and Suites at 2100 Free- ramento area (where my wife is how I met Duane BigEagle. was an excellent opportunity glis, Kim Maker and Chelsea way Dr. in Woodland, which Glenda and I live) moving for- He was excited about an orga- to move our meetings to the Brian. Our current committee is 20 miles west of downtown ward, in part, due to continued nization of Osages in northern Sacramento area, because we is benefiting from the guidance Sacramento off Interstate 5. feedback from our membership California that he was start- had been losing attendees for of more seasoned members Johnson-Reyes said a final- that Sonoma County was leav- ing, and immediately asked if years … so my hope is that and the revitalization that ized agenda is not set, but the ing out Osages living around I wanted to do some work for there will be Osages from the new perspectives bring.” Sunday gathering will consist the Central Valley.” the organization. I did join the valley and the foothills that re- Osages who belong to the of a candidate forum for Osag- NCO gatherings in recent executive committee of the turn to our meetings.” NCO Facebook group learned es seeking office in the June 4 years have been held in Oak- Northern California Osage As- As for herself, Elliott said of the transition in late Jan- elections, as well as lunch and land or Petaluma where Elliott sociation (NCOA), our original she also enjoyed the cultural uary from postings by John- a cultural activity. and BigEagle reside. Elliott organization. I have been the component of the NCO gath- son-Reyes and Elliott and “The (NCO) Steering Com- recalls meeting BigEagle in Treasurer of our current orga- erings since she is a long-time mittee has been in transition a grocery store parking lot nization since its formation.” state resident. “Although my some said they will continue over the last couple years, and he asked her if she’d like Elliott said BigEagle retired grandmother was an original their support of the organiza- there are members of the com- to be a part of the new Osage from the committee a year ago allottee, Elnora Josephine tion, offered help and plan to mittee who have been facilitat- organization and she took on and she is also scaling back her Wyrick, we had been in Cali- attend the gatherings. ing meetings and contributing planning duties for the NCO, involvement due to health rea- fornia since 1953 and I did not “Karen and friends, thank so much to our people here in which has served as a meeting, sons. Elliott is fighting cancer know much about our culture. you for your hard work and northern California and Okla- network and fellowship tool for and chemotherapy treatments When I was little, my grand- dedication for so many years,” homa for decades, who have Osages living in northern Cali- impacted her day-to-day ac- mother took me to the danc- said Carol Arata, who lives decided to begin scaling back fornia or nearby states. tivities. “I asked if anyone es, and she took me to (Osage in Fremont. “We are grateful due to health and personal “About 20 years ago in Pet- wanted to take over arrang- Chief) Sylvester Tinker’s fu- and appreciative, these type reasons,” Johnson-Reyes said. aluma, I saw a car with a ing the meetings, fortunately neral, but that was the extent of events require a lot of hard “As a result, the next gener- bumper sticker (that read) (Keir) offered and Aimee Inglis of my exposure to Osage cul- work behind the scenes – not ation of Steering Committee ‘Osage Indian’ in the parking agreed to help Keir in any way ture. So, I thoroughly enjoyed to mention many months of members have been asked to lot of a market,” Eliott recalled. she could,” she said. being able to meet all of our planning. Will continue to sup- take on more roles to insure “My husband suggested that I Elliott also agrees the Sac- guests from Oklahoma and port as I can, these gatherings the continuance of this import- wait for the person to come out ramento area move for NCO learn more about Osage cul- are special and mean so much ant organization. I was asked and introduce myself. I didn’t meetings would be a good ef- ture,” Elliott said. to all of us living away from to assist with transitioning the know there were many Osages fort to attract more Osages Elliott also added she is do- our ancestral home.”

Pawhuska Indian Village Christmas Celebration

Osage News The Osage Veterans Memorial home page, that can be found on the Osage Nation’s website. Online application now available for adding All photos by CHALENE TOEHAY-TARTSAH/Osage News The Pawhuska Indian Village hosted their Christmas Party on Jan. 6 at Wakon Iron Hall. All attendees had a light veteran names on Osage brunch and played several games of bingo. Veterans Memorial Osage News year, according to a Jan. 26 news release. Osage Nation military Osage military veterans veterans and their fam- serving on the Veterans ilies may now complete Memorial Commission are an online application for Franklin McKinley, Rich- veteran names to be add- ard Perrier, John Henry ed to the Nation’s planned Mashunkashey and Rich- Veterans Memorial. ard Luttrell and Frances The online application is available on the ON Veterans Williams, who is president of the Hominy Chapter of Memorial Commission web- TOP LEFT: Marjo- site: www.osagenation-nsn. American War Mothers. rie Williams, board gov/who-we-are/veter- The Veterans Memorial member, and Fred ans-memorial-commission/ Commission also has its own Byers hosted several games of bingo at registration-form web page for more information on the commission the annual Christ- Once at the web page, mas party. click “Osage Nation Veter- members and legislation an Registration – Online establishing the memorial Application” to begin filling online at: www.osagena- out the document with vet- tion-nsn.gov/who-we-are/ eran information including veterans-memorial-commis- Osage membership number, sion address (if living), branch of In other recent news, the military service, rank and Veterans Memorial Com- dates of service. Applicants mission has hired Osage BOTTOM LEFT: Bin- will also be asked to attach a veteran Maria DeRoin MA1 go Prizes for the digital copy of the veteran’s (SW)(Ret) as a point of con- Pawhuska Indian DD214, which is the certif- tact for the memorial proj- Village Christmas icate of release, discharge ect. DeRoin can be reached Party on Jan. 6 at from active duty. at (918) 287-9729 and email Wakon Iron Hall. All attendees had a light for the Veterans Memorial Construction on the Vet- brunch and played erans Memorial is expected Commission is osage.veter- several games of to start at a later date this [email protected] bingo. Osage News • osagenews.org February 2018 11 ‘Fluent Generations’ exhibit celebrates artistic works of the Fields family Benny Polacca Osage News

NORMAN, Okla. – Art- works produced by a family of seasoned Native American artists, including an Osage mother and son, are now on display here at the Sam Noble Oklaho- ma Museum of Natural Histo- ry showcasing their works in photography, clay sculptures and paintings for the first time in one exhibit. “Fluent Generations: The Art of Anita, Tom & Yati- ka Fields” is now on display through May 6 at the Noble A ceramic artwork by Osage artist Anita Fields called a “Memory Bowl” on museum where visitors can display as part of the exhibit “Fluent Generations: The Art of Anita, Tom view the family members’ and Yatika Fields.” works that celebrate the vital- ity of Indigenous cultures and works that bring their cultural heritage to life using their respective art mediums. Anita Fields (Osage) is a clay sculpture artist and her husband, Tom Fields (Mus- Attendees view paintings by Osage artist Yatika Fields at the Sam Noble cogee and Cherokee), is a Oklahoma Museum of Natural History on Jan. 22. photographer and visual sto- ryteller. Their son, Yatika Fields, is a painter. All three have produced works that are showcased in various museum institutions across the country. On Jan. 19, the Sam Noble Attendees view photos by Tom Fields at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Muse- museum hosted a member re- um of Natural History on Jan. 22. ception featuring the three Fields artists who spoke with attendees viewing their scores of artworks on display. “Fluent Generations” features a mix of never-before-seen artworks as well as loans from other institutions including the Osage artist Anita Fields visits Tom Fields (Muscogee/ Cherokee) Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, with attendees during a Jan. 19 speaks at the Jan. 19 reception Oklahoma State University reception at the Sam Noble Okla- held for the opening of an art ex- Museum of Art, the Arkansas homa Museum of Natural History hibit showcasing his photography Heritage Museum and private where her work is featured in the and artworks by his wife Anita collections, as well as the art- family exhibit “Fluent Genera- Fields (Osage) and their son Yatika ists’ own collections. tions: The Art of Anita, Tom and Fields at the Sam Noble Oklahoma “The Fields family’s individ- Yatika Fields.” Museum of Natural History. uality and artistic expression deviates from that familiar model of genealogical tracing of Attendees of a Jan. 19 reception at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum American Indian art through of Natural History view the exhibit “Fluent Generations: The Art of Anita, single family-single medium Tom & Yatika Fields.” dynasties who work in ceram- ics, jewelry, clay, beadwork and painting as a group,” said Daniel Swan, who is Curator of Ethnology for the Noble museum. “Tom, Anita and Yatika share personal strengths that are fostered within their family, the qualities of confidence, assurance, the ability to be verbally and visually articu- late are valued and respected.” Swan said his friendship Belle Wilson (Osage) and her husband John Wilson view photos by Tom with the family started with Fields featured in the “Fluent Generations: The Art of Anita, Tom and Yati- meeting Tom Fields in the ear- ka Fields” exhibit at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History. ly 1980s and Swan took interest in Tom Fields’ photography that he used with his academic Osage artist Yatika Fields visits with reception attendees on Jan. 19 who works and later met the other are viewing his family’s exhibit “Fluent Generations” at the Sam Noble family members. “I’ve followed Oklahoma Museum of Natural History. the careers of Tom, Anita and Yatika visiting exhibitions, lec- tures, reading essays and I’ve enjoyed great fellowship with the Fields family at the annual (Osage) In-Lon-Schka dances, Native American Church services, dinners, handgames and other community celebrations and events.” Swan recalled a fall 2016 visit with the Fields family at the museum when he asked if An audience listens to opening remarks at a Jan. 19 reception held to the family ever exhibited to- preview the “Fluent Generations; The Art of Anita, Tom and Yatika Fields” gether, which led to Swan pro- exhibit at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History. posing the exhibit project and planning talks. Swan said he shared his “editorial authority with the artists, focusing An oil painting by Osage artist Yatika Fields titled “White Buffalo Calf Ceramic moccasins artwork by Osage artist Anita Fields at the on selections of works that are Woman March” at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History. Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of meaningful to each of them in Natural History. this moment, some are older, many new and a few rediscov- All photos by Benny Polacca/Osage News ered. Each photograph, painting and ceramic piece presents an important story that con- people and cultural events. communities to the reception. nous people from various tribal the important issues of Indig- tributes to our larger narra- In an exhibit statement, Tom “It’s a powerful experience to nations camped and objected enous peoples in America and tive on art, family, community Fields said: “Photography is walk in there and see all that, to the Dakota Access Pipeline globally,” Yatika Fields said in and creativity.” also a way for me to visually you know… we’ve come a long project arguing the under- his exhibit statement. “Once Tom Fields expressed define what it means to be Na- way. It’s like a journey, this is ground pipeline posed a threat again the Native American thanks to the museum, to those tive. I seek the uniqueness of how we navigate life. For me to the nearby Cannon Ball and community is being looked at he’s photographed through the each individual – and the spir- as a painter, it’s a story… it’s Missouri rivers. Yatika Fields as a lost page in history and years, as well as his family, it of the moment – as I strive about a certain time in my life, and his siblings visited Stand- I feel it is my responsibility adding “it was stunning when to depict current situations I first walked in there” to see to create images that reflect I try to depict that.” ing Rock during the protests, with a poetic eye and painterly the exhibit of their works. dignity and hope.” Some of Yatika Fields’ which gave him inspiration for hand.” Photographs by Tom Fields Yatika Fields also thanked painting works are inspired by painting works. Anita Fields said the exhib- in the exhibit are either in color various parties and individu- events that took place during “In the last year, my work or black and white and capture als including those Osages who the 2016-2017 Standing Rock has evolved from vibrant ab- See Fields images of Native American traveled from Osage Nation (N.D.) protests where Indige- straction to representation of —Continued on Page 13 12 February 2018 Osage News • osagenews.org

Newly crowned Skiatook JOM Princess Jewell McDonald dances around the arena with her family at the Skia- took JOM dance on Jan. 6 in Skiatook, Okla.

Newly crowned Skiatook JOM Princess Jewell McDonald poses for Osage News at the Skiatook JOM dance on Jan. 6 in Skiatook, Okla.

Osage Nation JOM Coordinator Avis Ballard tabulates a contest category at the Skiatook JOM dance on Jan. 6 in Skiatook, Okla. Skiatook JOM Dance All photos by CHALENE TOEHAY-TARTSAH / Osage News

Andrea Kemble dances with her granddaughter during a special at the Skiatook JOM dance that was held on Jan. 8 in Skiatook, Okla.

Junior Boys Straight contest category took place at the Skiatook JOM dance on Jan. 6 in Skiatook, Okla. Osage News • osagenews.org February 2018 13

LeSharo Wildcat participates at the annual Battle of the Plains Competition on Jan. 13 in Dewey, Okla.

of the Battle Plains Andrew Grayson Miller participates at the annual Battle of the Plains Competition on Jan. 13 in Dewey, Okla. All photos by CHALENE TOEHAY-TARTSAH / Osage News

Osage Nation JOM participants competed and placed 1st at the annual Battle of the Plains Compe- tition on Jan. 13 in Dewey, Okla.

Many tribal nations participated in the annual Battle of the Plains Competition on Jan. 13 in Dewey, Okla.

Osage Nation families sit together at the annual Battle of the Plains Competition on Jan. 13 in Dewey, Okla.

Fields to know you’re my inspiration inform my ideas. This perspec- day existence. The forms I cre- ternate Osage Nation Election –from Page 11 many, many times.” tive is based on the division of ate symbolize our disconnect Board member and is a for- it “is extremely humbling, I’m The contemporary ceramic the universe into Earth and from the natural world and the mer Hominy District cook, a very honored to be able to be and clay works by Anita Fields Sky; it represents the order, fading balance of our relation- position her daughter Welana are on display behind protec- balance, duality, and sym- ships to our environment.” here, especially with my fam- Queton currently holds. tion glass or are in picture biotic relationships found in Anita Fields is from the ily, making art can be a hard The Sam Noble Oklahoma frames throughout the exhibit life and nature. Within this Hominy District and she and Museum of Natural History is job … but you can depend on gallery. context and influenced by my Tom Fields have two other your family. I’m so thankful I In her exhibit statement, personal experiences, my art children, Welana Queton and located at 2401 Chautauqua can share this language with Anita Fields said: “The fun- intends to document the evo- Nokosee Fields, who are also Ave. in Norman and its web- my children. When I watch damental notions of Wah- lution of our culture and rep- active in Osage culture and site is at www.snomnh.ou.edu interactions of Osage people Zha-Zhi (Osage) culture and resents the conflicting forces artistic/ musical endeavors. for more information on the with one another, I want you its worldview influence and found throughout our day-to- Anita Fields serves as an al- museum and upcoming events. 14 February 2018 Osage News • osagenews.org

Construction continues on Hominy village dance arbor

BENNY POLACCA/Osage News Construction continues on the new Hominy village dance arbor and nearby multi-use community building on Jan. 22.

BENNY POLACCA/Osage News The frame for the new Hominy village dance arbor is erected and construction continues on the structure and new multi-use building (background) on Jan. 22.

Second Annual Osage Nation STEAM Science Fair

All photos by CHALENE TOEHAY-TARTSAH/Osage News RIGHT: Cherise Miller judges a booth at the Education Department’s 2nd Annual STEAM Science Fair on Jan. 23.

BELOW RIGHT: The Osage Nation Education Department hosted their 2nd Annual STEAM Science Fair on Jan. 23. From left: Dena Cosby, Educa- tion Director Mary Wildcat, Mandy McKinley and Coley Streater.

Osage Nation Museum Curator Hallie Winter judges a booth at the Education Department’s 2nd Annual STEAM Science Fair on Jan. 23. Osage News • osagenews.org February 2018 15

SHANNON SHAW DUTY/Osage News 2018 Pawhuska Wrestling Homecoming Queen Ashley Henley and the Pawhuska Wrestling Homecoming King Kienan Cheeves (center, Osage) and the rest of the Homecoming Court at the 2018 Pawhuska Wrestling Home- SHANNON SHAW DUTY/Osage News coming. 2018 Pawhuska Wrestling Homecoming Queen Ashley Henley and the Pawhuska Wrestling Homecoming King Kienan Cheeves (Osage) at the 2018 Pawhuska Wrestling Homecoming. Pawhuska Wrestling Homecoming

SHANNON SHAW DUTY/Osage News Senior attendant Aubrey Walker and her escort Blue Starr (left, Osage) at the 2018 Pawhuska Wrestling Homecoming.

SHANNON SHAW DUTY/Osage News SHANNON SHAW DUTY/Osage News Freshman attendant Landon McCartney (Osage) and Junior attendant Kalee Kennedy (Osage) and her her escort Dylan Doyle at the 2018 Pawhuska Wres- escort Ryan Parks at the 2018 Pawhuska Wrestling tling Homecoming. Homecoming.

SHANNON SHAW DUTY/Osage News Sophomore attendant Kaitie Mathis and her escort RJ McCann (Osage family) at the 2018 Pawhuska Wrestling Homecoming. 16 February 2018 Osage News • osagenews.org Osages Around the World

Courtesy Photo/Nathan Johnson Dr. Robert Warrior Ava Johnson, 10, lives in Red reads the Osage Oak, Okla., and is a member of News in Doha, Qa- Oklahoma Kids, a division of tar, where he was American Kids Inc. presenting at a conference at the Doha Institute for Grad- Ava uate Studies. The –from Page 1 photo was taken by the water near the it made me feel to perform Museum of Islam- in New York City,” Ava ic Art across from said. downtown Doha. She won Outstanding Performer of the Year at the American Kids Dale Awards. She also won awards at the 2017 National Competition in Branson, Mo., where she won First in Age in Country, Gospel, Musical Theater, Solo Vocal and Musical Theater Group, plus First in Age, Gold With Honors, in all of the above except for Country. In that category, she took the Silver Award. “I am very proud of Ava and her accomplishments and know that she will continue to share her gifts from God for the benefit of others,” Johnson said. Ava is the daughter of Heather and Nathan Johnson and little sister to Zana Johnson who is BENNY POLACCA/ Osage News CHALENE TOEHAY-TARTSAH/Osage News attending East Central Megan Cruz takes her oath as a board member to serve on both the Jim Parris takes his oath as an Osage LLC and Tallgrass Economic Devel- University. Ava is of the Osage Nation’s LLC Board and Tallgrass Economic Development LLC opment LLC board member on Dec. 14, with Chief Trial Judge Marvin Eagle Clan and she is the Board. ON Trial Court Chief Judge Marvin Stepson administers the oath Stepson administering the oath. on Jan. 18 in Pawhuska. great-great-granddaughter of Alex Edward Can- non (Pahpah Ah Hah) an original allottee of Gov. Joe’s band. Ava is the great-granddaughter of Avis Cannon John- son, granddaughter of SL Johnson and daughter of Nathan Johnson, all of whom are Osage tribal members. To watch the YouTube video of Ava Johnson performing at the Good Morning America studios, visit https://www.you-

CHALENE TOEHAY-TARTSAH/Osage News CHALENE TOEHAY-TARTSAH/Osage News tube.com/watch?v=3c4In- Kay Martin takes her oath on Dec. 14. to serve on the Osage LLC and Ladd Oldfield takes his oath as a Bluestem Ranch Board member on Jan. dAEiUM&feature=youtu. Tallgrass Economic Development LLC board of directors, with Chief Trial 4. with Chief Trial Judge Marvin Stepson administering the oath. be Judge Marvin Stepson administering the oath. Bighorse –from Page 7 curriculum development, the Osage language app, the Osage language taught in the public schools, the adult Osage language classes taught in seven locations and the online Osage language website. “From where I sit we’ve had to really drive the Osage language curriculum and classes, and drive it hard. That’s why when that position came up and he took that position, I knew we had the right person at the right time,” Standing Bear said. ONCA 18-02 An Act to insert a new section on lawful use of force by Whitehorn First Reading Bighorse has taught at and security personnel in the Osage Nation Code at Title 14 1/18/18 been involved with the Osage Gaming, Chapter 11 General Requirements; and to language department since its establish an alternate effective date. inception in 2006. He has also served as the director for the ONCA 18-03 An Act to amend the Osage Nation Gaming Reform Act Whitehorn First Reading Wah-Zha-Zhi Cultural Center and started the annual Cultur- of 2007, 14 ONC § 12-105; and to establish an alternate 1/18/18 al Walk and has hosted many effective date. dances and handgames. He is well known through- ONCR 18-01 A Resolution to authorize and approve execution of an Whitehorn First Reading out the Osage community and International Swaps and Derivative Association, Inc. 1/18/18 the larger Native American community for his singing. He Agreement by the Osage Nation and the Osage Nation is known for his Osage lan- Gaming Enterprise to manage its interest rate risk on guage abilities, knowledge of outstanding debt and to authorize a limited waiver of the Osage culture and is an sovereign immunity fro suit and consent to jurisdiction. Osage artisan. He has served as a singer on many In-Lon- Schka Dance Committees and ONCR 18-02 A Resolution to support consistent and adequate funding Mason General Order is a former Pawhuska District for the National Park Service. Day 2 Drumkeeper. 1/18/18 Osage News • osagenews.org February 2018 17

Osage Energy The Constitution and the Mineral Estate Part IV Rosemary Wood Osage News

All Osages are inexorably linked to individual(s) whose name ap- pears on the 1906 Tribal Roll. We are one people connected through tribal, genetic, historic and cultural events and memories. This history and these memories are now part of us and we are a part of them. What we’ve done and who we were add to the makeup of today’s tribal character. Current day action becomes a part of tomorrow’s history contributing to who we will become. We are influenced by history and we, in return, influence history. We are living links in the chain of existence. The wonderful Osage Bal- Rosemary Wood let, WAHZHAZHE, comes to mind as a living memorial to our history. CHIEF. In addition to feelings, Oil and gas production is a ma- there are structural and function- jor part of our history. The 1870 al reasons for my preference in the move to today’s reservation was at use of the terms herein stated, over the urging of Wah-Ti-An-Ka. Wah- those used in the 2006 Constitution Ti-An-Ka knew it unlikely that (see Figure 1). this poor land would be coveted by I know those individual commit- white farming interest and lobby- tee members who wrote the 2006

AUTHORIZING DOCUMENT ITEM 1906 1994 2006 Name Osage Tribal Council Osage Tribal Council Osage Minerals Council Name Principal Chief Principal Chief Council Member Name Assist. Principal Chief Assist. Principal Chief Council Member Pay Rent Not Applicable Not Required Required Figure 1

ists. Wah-Ti-An-Ka was a prayer- Constitution. They were Osage trib- ful and spiritual man and he also al members and were, in my opin- knew, somehow, that Wah’Kon’- ion, good intelligent people. They Ta had prepared good and great did the best they could and did so things for His people in the in the best interest of the Nation. new land. My goal is not to judge the fram- The land-greedy interlopers ers of the 2006 Constitution, but were unaware that this agricultur- to attempt to do the same thing ally worthless land had been bless- they attempted, i.e., shape a more ed with life sustaining resources perfect Constitution. below the surface of the land. Oil The possibility that constitutions brought money (mo-‘ce cka), and can change, evolve and improve is money brought food, shelter and seen in the Constitution of the Unit- life when nothing else was avail- ed States of America. That govern- able. In my opinion, the ace trick mental practices can change, evolve of the colonizers was the disrup- and improve within the frame of tion of our social-economic system, an Osage Nation Constitution can hunting, gathering, and farming. be seen in practice, even as this Names are important to the article is being written. According Wah-zha-zhe. Before joining I’n- Lon-Schka, one must be named; to OMC Resolution No.3-272 “The and they are honored when that OMC paid approximately $76,200 name is called under the arbor. in indirect cost last year and paid For Osages, names give structure approximately $16,000 in space cost to the tribe’s clan system. Names for a total of $92,200, almost a tenth identify birth order, gender, and of our budget.” Resolution No.3-272 something about the family’s ex- also states, “The Osage Nation Con- pectations and duties to the indi- gress has offered to prepare legis- vidual, and the individual’s duties lation to relieve the OMC of these and expectations of the family. costs.” The OMC through the same Naming is ceremonial and fol- resolution graciously accepted the lows prescribed rituals. They say Nation’s offer. that when a ritual is performed it The oil derrick in front of the is performed in concert with each Museum is in disrepair. Congress previous performance of that ritu- requested input from the OMC as al. Names are important to the in- to whether this symbol should be dividual, the family and the tribe. repaired or torn down. I believe this Names are important to friends, was an act of recognition and respect less so to acquaintances and even by the Nation toward the OMC. I less to strangers. Names are also agree with the only Councilmem- important to those who consider ber speaking to keep this culturally us competitors, and to those who historical link. Andrew Yates stated see us as barriers to sought-after that this symbol should be restored, goals. Colonizers change names and restored in metal. “Bronze,” he of indigenous people. They cannot said. My artist’s eye instantly saw understand or even pronounce in- and appreciated such an effort. digenous names. It makes them ––––––––– feel “less than”; less in the know, About the author: Rosemary less in control. Wood is a former two-time Osage Trib- All this discussion about names al Councilwoman and graduated from is my attempt to explain, in part, St. John Hospital School of Nursing in my feelings about the importance 1963, the University of Oklahoma in of the names OSAGE TRIBAL 1965, and from Rutgers University in COUNCIL, PRINCIPAL CHIEF 1971 with a Master of Science in Psy- AND ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL chiatric Nursing.

How to submit a Letter to the Editor If you would like to submit a letter to the editor, please mail it to the Osage News, Attn.: Shannon Shaw Duty, 604 Kihekah, Pawhuska, OK 74056 or send email to sshaw@ osagetribe.org. Letters must be respectful and informative to the reader, and may be edited for grammar, clarity and space. 18 February 2018 Osage News • osagenews.org

Domestic violence, overdose or suicide – we can help each other Ruby Murray Guest Columnist

My sister was in her fifties when she died of an overdose of methamphet- amine in 2011. She died alone, separate from her little family. When Jennie died, I lost my little sister. She was the person who shared my childhood memories. We communicated in the subtle ways of sisters. I’d say, did you hear about—and before I finished, she’d say, Yep. She was a powerful presence, 5’8”, like my mother. She had a degree in fi- nance, was in control and challenging. Larger than life. She was irritating at times, incredibly hard working and love- able. She had a rippling laugh. She was a bigger presence than a woman is sup- Ruby Murray posed to be in the wider society, and if that bothered her, she didn’t say. She or whether the capillaries dilated or con- just kept fighting for what she needed stricted as she passed. and to do it her way. I wish I’d been with her. I met the Saying “Jennie” sounds like child- woman who found her body. It seems I hood. It calls up the happy, little girl should know the details; it seems they in the black and white picture I took in must be essential. At the same time, I our bedroom. She was in her nightgown, don’t want more details because they smiling, a tooth missing, her curly hair bring me into the room with my sister loose. She was the young girl all of my on the floor between the sliding glass family fell in love with. She was my door and the bed. I don’t know whether one sister, but we didn’t go shopping or she was looking outside when her heart get coffee together. She was a beauti- stopped, or whether she was sitting on ful, young woman, but what does being the bed. beautiful get you but trouble? It was hard to turn her over, the She fought substance abuse all her woman said. life, and you could say she came by There’s much more to say here, about her addiction honestly. When we were the joys of Jennie’s life, the inspiration young, Dad drank Old Fashioneds. I re- she was in mine, about conflict in fami- member that I loved the bourbon soaked lies and how it plays out, about how some maraschino cherries. My grandmother family members turn to drugs or alcohol didn’t allow alcohol in her house, trying and others to food for comfort, about the to straighten up her sons, I think. For generations of trauma that Osages have my aunts and cousins cocktail hour is a lived. About how sometimes, you don’t family tradition. Some family members speak about something painful to spare drink; some have found recovery, and others their feelings or memories. some died in their addiction. I think about how our Nation and our Jennie had legal problems with culture supports girls and women and drinking and driving in her 20s, and a how we sustain each other. Part of me positive drug test at work a year or so thinks if I’d understood what was hap- before she died. She was having a hard pening – how bad it was – maybe I could time financially in the 2008 housing cri- have helped. I know how hard it can be sis. She had issues with her partner and to find recovery. I wish I knew why one a teenage son. I live states away, and I’d person finds it and another doesn’t. been calling, but we were losing touch. It’s been six years since Jennie died, The coroner – I imagine an over- and I’ve barely spoken about her death. worked person – writes with harsh sim- I’m sharing my experience, because plicity “she kept using until she died.” I hope if we lighten the judgment and I don’t know whether she was run- shame some people associate with do- ning fast emotionally, or whether she mestic violence, overdose or suicide, we noticed her heart swelling, speeding up, can help each other. Community February 2018 19 Corpus Christi, and the other itary Spouse Association. She from The University of Tulsa, says she is most appreciative Osage Ph.D. candidate receives as well as a BA in Psychology, of her Osage heritage, and the with a Spanish minor, from financial and other support the the University of Oklahoma. Tribe provided which helped Schurz Communications As a doctoral student, Dr. her accomplish this profession- Louie conducted research al milestone. award for student startup that was preventative in na- Dr. Louie is currently pursu- ture. Her research interests ing a postdoctoral position to Osage News are in identifying empirically continue developing advanced supported methods for pro- Raymond “Studie” RedCorn, moting health and resilience competency in the treatment the youngest son of Osage Na- in children and families. For and assessment of children tion Assistant Principal Chief her dissertation, “Resilience in and families. Her long-term Raymond Red Corn, is a recip- Military Families with Young goal is to pursue licensure and ient of the Schurz Communi- Children: A Pilot Study of work as a clinical child psy- cations Innovative Challenge chologist involved in clinical Pre-deployment Parent Train- award. The award will fund ing,” Dr. Louie developed and research and psychological Ashley DeShong Louie (Smith) RedCorn and his partner’s piloted a pre-deployment par- service provision within an ac- student startup at Purdue ent-training program deliv- ademic medical setting. University where he is a Congratulations! ered via telehealth. Results Dr. Louie is the daughter doctoral candidate. Ashley DeShong Louie suggested that the pre-de- of Dwight and Vicki Smith, of (Smith) graduated from the According to a news release, ployment parenting program Sperry, Okla., and the grand- University of Tulsa with a reduced family distress before daughter of George and Pa- the competition provided a to- Raymond “Studie” RedCorn Ph.D. in clinical psycholo- deployment and promoted a tricia Smith, also of Sperry, tal of $10,500 in cash prizes to gy on Dec. 16, 2017. She had positive trajectory across the and the great-great-grand- four student startups and was hosted by the Purdue Foundry in previously completed her clin- deployment cycle. Dr. Louie’s the Burton D. Morgan Center for Entrepreneurship. RedCorn, ical internship in pediatric daughter of allottee Estella research on children and fam- a Ph.D. candidate in Purdue’s Department of Agricultural and behavioral health at Eastern ilies yielded five articles pub- Yeargain Park and her hus- Biological Engineering, and Mikhail Lepilov, a Ph.D. candi- Virginia Medical School in lished in scientific journals. band A.B. Park, who were Norfolk, Va. Dr. Louie’s research and Skiatook pioneers. date in Purdue’s Department of Mathematics, placed third for a Prior to earning her Ph.D., graduate education were gen- Dr. Louie and her husband, total $5,000. Dr. Louie obtained two MAs erously funded by the Uni- Col. Kenneth Louie, USAF, re- RedCorn and Lepilov placed third for their technology STE- in Clinical Psychology – one versity of Tulsa, the Osage side in the Washington D.C. MiO, which serves as a systems wiki allowing people to explore from Texas A&M University – Nation, and the National Mil- area with their daughter Ellis. the “language of systems” in functions such as a 401K account or an ethanol plant, according to a news release. “Through STEMiO, we help people connect the big picture of a specific system, perhaps from the human body or a Roth IRA, with its fundamental components,” RedCorn said in the release. Save the Date! According to RedCorn, they will invest their prize money in ideation development specifically focusing on hosting –Local Events Calendar and programming. “The Schurz Communications Innovation Challenge was the For more information Osage County Fair- FEBRUARY first time we received outside criticism,” RedCorn said inthe contact (918) 287-5286 February 6 grounds Ag Building release. “Throughout the practice session and final competition, Filing for Osage Nation March 31 Pawhuska, Oklahoma we were pushed to clarify our vision. We received great feed- Early Voting Day 2 Congress Begins 2 pm to 10 p.m. back about potential applications of our product that we had yet Osage Nation For Osage Nation to envision.” For more information Election Office Principal Chief and 608 Kihekah Assistant Chief contact (405) 933-3174 Pawhuska, Oklahoma For more information (918) 287-5286 contact (918) 287-5286 April 28 Osage News February 16 APRIL Deadline to submit Candidate Debates – April 2 Absentee Ballot Osage Minerals Council Request forms Primary Election Day Osage Casino – Skiatook For Osage Nation For Osage Nation Principal Chief and Principal Chief and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Assistant Chief Assistant Chief For more informa- For more information Must be received by close contact (918) 287-5286 tion (918) 287-5668 of business at 4:30 p.m. Osage Nation April 14 April 30 Election Office Osage News Candi- Absentee Ballot 608 Kihekah date Debates – Osage Pawhuska, Oklahoma Nation Congress Mailing Begins (918) 287-5286 Osage Casino – Skiatook For Osage Na- 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. February 17 tion Congress For more informa- Osage News Debates tion (918) 287-5668 Osage Nation – Principal Chief and Courtesy Photo Election Office Asst. Chief Candidates April 15 The 5th grade Woodland basketball team won the Lutheran Tournament Osage Casino – Skiatook Osage News Candidate De- 608 Kihekah in Ponca City on Jan. 27. All boys pictured are Osage. Back row, from left: Coach Casey Goad, Amos Mashburn, Jaydin Shaw, Kameron Britton and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. bates – ON Congress, Chief Pawhuska, Oklahoma Danner Lessert. Front row, from left: Dray Long, Hunter Wilson, Trey Ben- For more informa- & Asst. Chief Candidates (918) 287-5286 nett, Tryp Neff, Clifford Robertson and DK Kennedy. tion (918) 287-5668 Osage Casino – Skiatook 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. February 26 For more informa- Absentee Ballot JUNE Osage Shareholders Association to host tion (918) 287-5668 Mailing Begins June 1 For Osage Nation April 16-20 Feb. 18 meeting at Skiatook Osage Casino Nation General Election, Principal Chief and Four Corners of the Osage Early Voting Day 1 Osage News Visit Sites in Arkan- which is June 4. Assistant Chief For Osage Nation The Osage Shareholders All eight seats on the min- sas, Missouri, Okla- Osage Nation Elec- Congress Association is hosting their erals council will be open in homa, and Kansas tion Office next quarterly meeting on the OMC election and voting For more information 608 Kihekah Registration Period: Feb- Sunday, Feb. 18, at the Ski- is open to only Osage share- Pawhuska, Oklahoma ruary 1 to February 28 contact (918) 287-5286 atook Osage Casino Hotel. holders. (918) 287-5286 For more information The meeting will run from Other guest speakers will contact Courtney Neff June 2 1 p.m. until 3 p.m. and will also follow and lunch will be feature guest speakers. Bil- MARCH at (918) 287-9741 Early Voting Day 2 provided. The OSA invites lie Ponca, who is the elec- shareholders to come learn March 1 – April 12 April 20 For Osage Nation tion supervisor for the 2018 about the OSA, its leader- Deadline to submit One Book, One Community Congress Osage Minerals Council ship and the organization’s Stillwater, Oklahoma Absentee Ballot election, will share infor- direction. For more infor- For more information Event Schedule available Request forms mation about the upcoming mation on the event, contact at library.stillwater.org For Osage Na- contact (918) 287-5286 OMC election typically held OSA Vice Chairwoman Lou the same day as the Osage Phillips at (918) 272-8174. For more information tion Congress June 4 contact (405) 372-3633 Must be received by close of business at 4:30 p.m. General Election Day March 12 Osage Nation Elec- For more information Filing for Osage Nation tion Office UOSC to host candidate forum Congress Ends 608 Kihekah contact (918) 287-5286 Osage Nation Elec- Pawhuska, Oklahoma –––––––––––––––––– at April 21 spring gathering tion Office (918) 287-5286 Have an event? Send event Osage News 608 Kihekah April 21 information to the Osage News, Pawhuska, Oklahoma The United Osages of Southern California is hosting its United Osages of Southern Attn.: Shannon Shaw Duty, 604 (918) 287-5286 2018 spring gathering on April 21 at the Carlsbad Senior Cen- California Spring Meeting Kihekah, Pawhuska, OK 74056; ter featuring a candidate forum for those seeking office in the March 17 Carlsbad Senior Center email [email protected], 2018 elections. Osage Nation Sovereignty 799 Pine Ave. The top two Executive Branch offices, six seats on the ON or fax to (918) 287-5563. Make Day Powwow Carlsbad, California Congress and all eight Osage Minerals Council seats are up for sure to include event date, loca- Osage County Fairgrounds 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. election on June 4. Historically, the UOSC has hosted similar fo- Pawhuska, OK For more information tion, email and web address (if rums, which is an opportunity for candidates to meet California Osage constituents and shareholders who will be voting in the contact Greg Clavier applicable) and a phone number March 30 respective elections. at (760) 802-7591 where someone can be contact- Early Voting Day 1 Other speakers may follow pending finalized arrangements. ed for validation, if necessary. For Osage Nation April 22 The Carlsbad Senior Center is located at 799 Pine Ave. with the Principal Chief and Osage Tribal Princess Deadline for the March issue is UOSC gathering to start at 10 a.m. and ending at 5 p.m. Assistant Chief Sorority Honor Dance February 18, 2017. For more information or to RSVP for the April 21 UOSC gathering, email Greg Clavier at [email protected] or call (760) 802-7591. Obituaries February 2018 20 fields of Oklahoma accepting roads looking at the scenery. a position with Eyler Drilling His favorite band was the as a rig technician. He then re- Turnpike Troubadours. turned to college and obtained Survivors are his wife Jamie his Bachelor of Science degree of the home; two children Mi- in Environmental Health and hya and Leighlah Toineeta of Safety in 2013. After graduat- the home; parents Lance and ing, Michael accepted a posi- Angela Toineeta of Hominy, tion with Michels Corporation Oklahoma; one sister Alexan- in 2014. Michael’s position with Michels Corporation as dria Toineeta of Hominy, Okla- the Environmental Health and homa, paternal grandmother Safety Coordinator. He was a Beverly Goebel of Bartlesville, dedicated health and safety Oklahoma; aunts and uncles professional that had a pas- Charisse, Silas Ray, Lynette, sion for ensuring the safety of Craig Don Satepauhoodle, Lance Michael Toineeta each of his crews. Michael was Rocky White as well as a host SHANNON SHAW DUTY/Osage News someone that everyone could of other relatives and friends. Lance Michael Toineeta The AARP is now accepting nominations for 10th annual Indian El- count on and would drop ev- Michael was preceded in death Lance Michael Toineeta, 35, der Honors. erything to assist a crew with by paternal grandfather Mi- of Hominy, Oklahoma passed a problem. He was a respect- from this life on Saturday, chael Dennis Toineeta and ed co-worker and employee maternal grandparents Ev- January 20, 2018, in Cedar who would always go above ans Ray and Genevieve Jewell Rapids, Iowa following a cou- and beyond what was asked. AARP now accepting (Oberly) Satepauhoodle and rageous battle with cancer. His job entailed making sure great-grandparents Sam and Michael was born on June the safety and health of his nominations for 10th 27, 1982, in Tulsa, Oklaho- people, contractors and cus- Nellie (Doyah) Satepauhoodle, ma. He was the son of Howard tomers were paramount. Mi- Alfred and Beulah and (Cole) Lance and Angela (Satepau- chael’s mission was to ensure Oberly Jackson. annual Indian Elder Honors hoodle) Toineeta descendant everyone returned home safely Funeral services will be- Osage News of Sate-I-en-gyi, Goom-so-gope each day. His go-to phrase was gin at 8:00 AM Wednesday at (Kiowa), Chief John Oberly, “Safety First.” We would also Hominy Village Chapel with AARP Oklahoma is now accepting nominations for the 10th annual Indian Elder Honors to be selected and recognized Sara Petsemoie and Fidelis like to thank the Long Branch Herman Mongrain Lookout this fall. Cole, Pearl Cayou (Osage). and Best Western Hotel for speaking. Prayer services Each year since its inception, the Indian Elder Honors cel- Michael was raised and re- the recreational employment will be 7:00 pm Tuesday at ebrates 50 Native American elders who made positive im- ceived his education in Hom- opportunity (Hotel Califor- the Hominy Village Chapel. pacts and contributions to their communities, families and iny. He was a very active in nia). On August 5, 2017, Mi- Friends may share a memory tribal nations. Nominations are being accepted until April football and track during his chael was united in marriage with the family online at www. 30 and those individuals selected as honorees will be ac- time in school and was award- to Jamie Roberts in Hominy, chapman-black.com. knowledged at the Indian Elder Honors banquet on Oct. 2 in ed All-State Lineman his Se- Oklahoma. Shortly after their Pallbearers will include Reu- Oklahoma City. nior year. Michael was also a marriage, the couple moved ben DeRoin, Jim Hopper, Ron- According to an AARP OK news release, 2017’s honor- member of the State Champi- to Cedar Rapids, Iowa where ees came from 33 Oklahoma tribal nations and included onship Track team as well. He they were currently residing. nie Gilley, Cody Tucker, Leon teachers, veterans, nurses, artists, tribal leaders, language graduated from Hominy with Michael loved cooking out- Grayeyes, Jarod Washmon, and culture preservationists, and even a champion archer the Class of 2001. Following John Carns and Louis B Dai- side, being with his girls and a 10-time world champion female arm wrestler. Since high school, Michael attended and family. He also enjoyed ley, III. Honorary pallbearers Northeastern State University floating the Illinois River. It will be Dodds Terrell, Coach D., in Tahlequah. He later decid- was not uncommon to find Coach Riley and employees of See AARP ed to begin working in the oil Michael driving the back- Michel’s Corporation. —Continued on Page 21 Classifieds OSAGE NATION JOBS: To degree. Child Development As- Main Bank Cashier – Sand least 21 years of age. Bachelor’s 8 or smaller for women’s attire. apply for a position with the sociate (CDA) certification or re- Springs High school diploma degree in Business Administra- Males must be able to fit a size 36 Osage Nation go to www. lated field preferred or working or GED required. Prior cash – tion, Hospitality, related field or osagenation-nsn.gov/oppor- toward completion within eight handling experience required. four (4) years of industry specific waist for men’s attire. High School tunities/job-listings/applica- (8) months. High School Diploma Requires experience in guest ser- work experience required. Regu- Diploma/GED. Regular full time. tion-form. or GED required. Regular full vices or casino operations; prior lar full time. time. Salary: $13.00/hour Applicants are welcome to at- cage cashier experience preferred. Cocktail Server – Sand Springs Maintenance Technician – Regular full time. tach a resume and/or cover letter Administrative and Licensing Must be at least 18 years of age. Tulsa Must be at least 18 years in addition. Please note that all Assistant – Pawhuska Regular Cocktail Server – Tulsa Must Females must be able to fit a size of age. High School Diploma/GED applicants tentatively selected full time. be at least 18 years of age. Fe- 8 or smaller for women’s attire. Males must be able to fit a size 36 for employment with the Osage Language Teacher – Pawhus- males must be able to fit a size and 6 months of previous work Nation will be required to sub- 8 or smaller for women’s attire. waist for men’s attire. High School ka High School Diploma or GED experience. Gaming, Hospitali- mit to a urinalysis to screen for required; Associates Degree pre- Males must be able to fit a size 36 Diploma/GED. Regular part time. illegal drug use. Employment ferred. Fluency in the Osage lan- waist for men’s attire. High School EVS Supervisor – Skiatook ty or Customer Service industry will be contingent upon drug guage preferred. Knowledge of Diploma/GED. Regular full time. High School Diploma/GED. Must preferred. Minimal of two to three test results. OSAGE / VETER- Osage Language instructional Table Games Dealer – Skia- be 18 years of age or older. One (1) AN / INDIAN PREFERENCE years of experience in position re- methods and training techniques took Must be at least 18 years of year of housekeeping experience. IS CONSIDERED. Verification including curriculum design prin- age. High School Diploma/GED Regular full time. lated to assigned duties required. of preference must be included ciples, learning theory, group and and 6 months of previous work ex- EVS Attendant – Skiatook Six Regular full time. with application. For questions individual teaching techniques. perience. Regular full time. months experience in customer please contact Taryn Crawford, Knowledge of the structure and service or hospitality. Must be 18 Marketing Database Analyst – Osage Nation Employee Recruit- content of the Osage Language in- Main Bank Cashier – Hominy years of age or older. Regular full ment Specialist at (918) 287-5445 cluding the meaning and spelling High school diploma or GED re- Tulsa Must be at least 21 years of quired. Prior cash – handling time. or email tcrawford@osagena- of words, rules of composition, and age. Bachelor’s Degree in Business tion-nsn.gov. grammar. Regular full time. Sala- experience required. Requires ex- Guest Services Representa- perience in guest services or casi- Administration, Marketing, MIS Sergeant At Arms – Pawhus- ry: $33,000-58,700 tive – Hominy Must be 18 years no operations; prior cage cashier of age. High School Diploma/GED ka Enforce order and decorum Osage Nation Education De- or substantially related field plus experience preferred. Regular full and 6 months of previous work ex- for members and all individuals partment Internship Osage time. perience. Regular full time. a minimum of two (2) years’ expe- present at a session/meeting, and Nation Education Department rience in casino gaming industry; execute demands at the direction Internship Program is designed to Food and Beverage Supervi- Short Order Cook – Ponca City of the presiding officer, including provide Osage students with work sor – Bartlesville High School Six (6) months of previous work or five (5) years’ experience pro- contracting Congressional mem- experience in their chosen field of Diploma/GED. One year of food experience in the food industry. gressively responsible experience bers to return to session following study. The program is designed and beverage experience. Must be Must be 18 years of age. Regular recesses. Regular part time. Sala- to serve enrolled members of the 21 years of age. Regular full time. full time. in analytics and reportingRegular ry: $13.29 - $19.94/hour Osage Nation with a minimum of Dishwasher – Tulsa Must be 18 Security Officer – Skiatook full time. Child Development Associate 61+ hours completed in an accred- years of age. Regular full time. High School Diploma/GED and 6 – WELA Skiatook Associate’s ited college or university degree months of previous work experi- Short Order Cook – Bartles- program. Regular temporary full Electronic Gaming Techni- Degree in Early Childhood Devel- cian II – Tulsa Must be at least ence. Gaming Hospitality or Cus- ville Six (6) months of previous opment or related field preferred time. tomer Service industry preferred. 21 years of age. Associates Degree work experience in the food indus- or actively working toward this OSAGE CASINO JOBS: To ap- or skilled trades program and two Regular full time. degree. Child Development As- ply for a position with Osage (2) years or more of industry spe- Maintenance Technician – try. Must be 18 years of age. Reg- sociate (CDA) certification or re- Casino go to www.osagecasi- cific work experience. High School Sand Springs Must be at least ular full time. lated field preferred or working nos.com/careers Diploma/GED and three (3) years 18 years of age. High School Di- toward completion within eight Main Bank Cashier – Ponca of casino gaming industry experi- ploma/GED and 6 months of pre- I.T. Database Analyst – Tulsa (8) months. High School Diploma City High school diploma or GED ence will be considered in lieu of vious work experience. Gaming, or GED required. Regular full Three years previous database ad- required. Prior cash – handling Associates degree. Two (2) years Hospitality or Customer Service time. Salary: $13.00/hour experience required. Requires ex- electronic gaming machine tech- industry preferred. Minimal of ministration experience. Must be two to three years of experience in Child Development Associa- perience in guest services or casi- nician work experience required. 21 years of age. Bachelor’s Degree tion – WELA Pawhuska Asso- no operations; prior cage cashier Regular full time. position related to assigned duties ciate’s Degree in Early Childhood required. Regular full time. in Computer Science, MIS, IT or experience preferred. Regular full Casino Services Agent – Skia- Development or related field pre- time. took Must be 18 years of age or Dishwasher – Bartlesville related field preferred. Regular ferred or actively working toward Security Officer – Ponca City older. High School Diploma/GED. Must be 18 years of age. Regular this degree. Child Development full time. High School Diploma/GED and 6 Prior cash handling experience re- full time. Associate (CDA) certification or months of previous work experi- quired. Previous direct customer related field preferred or working Bartender – Bartlesville High ence. Gaming Hospitality or Cus- service experience required. Reg- toward completion within eight School Diploma/GED. Six months tomer Service industry preferred. ular part time. customer service experience pre- (8) months. High School Diploma Regular full time. or GED required. Regular full Security Supervisor – Sand ferred. Must be 21 years of age. time. Salary: $13.00/hour Marketing Specialist – Tulsa Springs Must be at least 18 Regular full time. Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing, years of age. Bachelor’s Degree Child Development Associ- Buffet Attendant – Bartlesville Sales, or related field. Must be 21 in Business Administration or ate – WELA Hominy Associate’s High School Diploma/GED and 6 years of age or older. Two years of Criminal Justice plus 3 months Degree in Early Childhood Devel- months of previous work experi- marketing and promotion experi- of department-specific experience; opment or related field preferred ence. Gaming, Hospitality or Cus- ence. Regular full time. or Associate’s Degree in Busi- or actively working toward this tomer Service industry preferred. ness Administration or Criminal degree. Child Development As- EVS Attendant – Pawhuska Some experience in food service is Justice plus 6 months or more of sociate (CDA) certification or re- Six months experience in custom- preferred. Regular full time. department-specific work expe- lated field preferred or working er service or hospitality. Must be Cocktail Server – Ponca City rience; or High School Diploma/ toward completion within eight 18 years of age or older. Regular Must be at least 18 years of age. GED. Regular full time. (8) months. High School Diploma full time. Females must be able to fit a size or GED required. Regular full Casino Services Agent – Sand Food and Beverage Supervi- 8 or smaller for women’s attire. time. Salary: $13.00/hour Springs Must be 18 years of age sor – Ponca City High School Di- Males must be able to fit a size 36 ploma/GED. One year of food and Child Development Associ- or older. High School Diploma/ waist for men’s attire. High School beverage experience. Must be 21 ate – WELA Fairfax Associate’s GED. Prior cash handling expe- Diploma/GED. Regular part time. years of age. Regular full time. Degree in Early Childhood Devel- rience required. Previous direct Cocktail Server – Bartlesville opment or related field preferred customer service experience re- Hotel and Banquet Sales Spe- Must be at least 18 years of age. or actively working toward this quired. Regular full time. cialist – Ponca City Must be at Females must be able to fit a size Opinion February 2018 21 Letters to the Editor No more frivolous lawsuits, the Osage Congress would even consider gutting such a beautiful historic building purchases or renovations building for any reason. The lawsuit brought on by the Ex- It’s important for Congress to be on ecutive Branch vs the Congressional the Osage campus, not downtown. branch was judged solely on the sepa- The first floor, their current desig- ration of powers, not the true purpose nated area of the building is not big for the lawsuit. The people and the enough for daily routine work, hold- Constitution gave the responsibility ing meetings, Congressional sessions, of oversight expenditures for all three visits from business consultants, con- branches to Congress and not to exceed stituents, no designated parking, no the projected revenues. handicap access or restrooms, acoustics The opinion from the Judicial Branch are nonexistent, small multiple teller didn’t consider the real reason for this areas only, etc. This will be a gut job unjustified lawsuit. The Chief simply and costs and unforeseen problems will didn’t want to give an itemized listing be astronomical. and specific information needed for When the refurbishing starts you Congress to make responsible appro- can count on a trove of problems priations for expenditures on the next year’s budget. with modernizing the overall struc- In previous years the branches ture, building restrictions and codes worked together on the itemized fund- with additional work to the other ing budget requests. Remember these 4-plus floors, including the basement are (or were) line item budgets not de- currently unoccupied. partmental budgets. It’s been said that the Congress Supposedly the “Chief” bought the wants to occupy the fourth floor. The downtown bank building before notify- only way to get to this floor is the ele- ing the Congress. The big question is vator and you must have a key to get to WHY, and for what purpose? Was there this floor. “Bad Business.” Cartoon © Santo Domingo Pueblo Cartoon Artist, Ricardo Caté a working business plan? Was there an It seems that they want to be unknown plan when purchased? locked away from the people, which This purchase had to include the at- is troubling. I’m curious if there is a Wrestling tached building, which is fine, but the fire escape? –from Page 9 old Hernandaz Restaurant building It’s obvious you are not taking into The Congress also passed bill ONCA 18-03 (also sponsored by Whitehorn), consideration the future of the people. was included with this purchase. It has which is a companion bill to amend the Nation’s gaming law, which allows the Congress members please do the right since been torn down. This is not the gaming board (subject to any requirements for Gaming Commission review and thing and come back where you truly first time the Chief bought a building approval) to establish standards and policies and procedures for training armed without notifying Congress. He bought belong. and unarmed casino security personnel to protect people and property at the the old corner buildings without any The Executive Branch needs to get gaming facilities, offices and land controlled by the casinos. plan? O.K. at first this pawn shop was a hand on the reclamation on the Con- The Congress will next convene for its regular 24-day Hun-Kah Session start- going to be an “interpretive” center – gress building, this should have been for what? done a long time ago. How could you let ing in late March or sooner if a legislative or executive proclamation is issued Congress now has passed bill ONCA- this go on for so long? calling for a special session. 17-109 for $400,000 to refurbish the We need some consideration and re- above Bank Building. This was ap- spect from our Elected Officials in or- proved by those present. The “Histor- der to work together. ical Society” has the last word before –Sandra Akins, any changes are done. I can’t believe Pawhuska, OK

homa, 126 N. Bryant, Edmond, OK, AARP 73034. Indian Elder nominees must –from Page 20 be an enrolled member of a federal- 2009, AARP Oklahoma has recognized ly-recognized Oklahoma tribal nation, 450 elders from all 39 tribal nations age 50-plus, and must be living. Nomi- in Oklahoma. nees do not have to be AARP members. In the release, AARP State Director Sean Voskuhl said: “This event cele- For more information, please contact brates a lifetime of service from these Mashell Sourjohn at (405) 715-4474 or distinguished elders. The common [email protected] thread between the honorees, regardless of the contribution, is the commit- To watch a video synopsis of the ment to community and service.” 2017 Indian Elder Honors, visit Nomination applications are online https://states.aarp.org/wp-content/ at: https://aarp.cvent.com/2018Indi- uploads/2018/01/AARP-2018-Okla- anElders Nominations may also be submitted homa-Indian-Elder-Hon- electronically or mailed to AARP Okla- ors-Call-for-Nominations.mp4

February 18th is the deadline for all submissions for the March issue of the

Mark it on your calendars! www.osagenews.org 604 Kihekah • Pawhuska, OK 74056 22 February 2018 Osage News • osagenews.org Geoff Hager named Oil and Gas Investor 40 Under 40 for Big Elk Energy Systems LLC Osage News Osage tribal member Geoff Hager, 38, was named to the 2017 class of Oil and Gas Investor’s 40 Under 40 for his role as CEO and founder of Big Elk En- ergy Systems LLC of Tulsa. Hager has worked in a myriad of roles during his career, including pipeline equipment manufacturing, account manager for Vinson Process Controls and director of sales for Circor Energy–Pipeline Solutions division. It was a natural evolution for him to form his own company. Big Elk Energy Systems has earned more than $40 million in revenue since its inception. His company crafts cus- Geoff Hager, 38, was named to the 2017 tody transfer equipment, pig launch- class of Oil and Gas Investor’s 40 Under ers and receivers, and mainline valve 40 settings for interstate gas transmis- “This is the industry that powers the sion pipelines, according to Oil and Gas Investor. country, and the future is extremely He said he named his company Big bright, especially on the natural gas Elk because he is a direct descendant side of things, with LNG exports and of Osage Chief Big Elk who was a chief the continued growth of combined-cycle of the Claremore Band of Osages. He is power plants,” he said. “I feel privileged also the grandson of the late Cora Jean to be a part of the massive pipeline Jech who was very active in the Osage infrastructure buildout taking place, Shareholders Association in Pawhuska which will continue to provide energy for many years. for generations to come.” Osage Language Challenge! The Osage News and the Osage Language Department have partnered to bring you the Osage Language Challenge! Each month the Language Department will provide a language-based challenge that will encourage our readers to download the Osage Language App and use it to find the answers. As an incentive, the Osage News will provide a prize to the lucky winner! For your chance to win simply complete the challenge, cut out and mail back to the Osage News, or take a photo of your completed challenge and email or Facebook message it to us, along with your name, address and phone number. Your name will be entered into a drawing and we will select the lucky winner on Facebook Live each month! All completed challenges need to be received by the Osage News staff before the 28th of each month by 4:30 p.m. CST. Watch our Facebook page for details! Mail to Osage News, 604 Kihekah, Pawhuska, OK 74056 or email to osagenews@osagenation-nsn.gov. Phone: (918) 287-5668

How to submit a Letter to the Editor If you would like to submit a letter to the editor, please mail it to the Osage News, Attn.: Shannon Shaw Duty, 604 Kihekah, Pawhus- ka, OK 74056 or send email to [email protected]. Letters must be respectful and informative to the reader, and may be edited for grammar, clarity and space. Osage News • osagenews.org February 2018 23