The Turtle Speaks Gyah’-Wish

Atak-iaA Wyandotte Nation Publication

Volume 24, Issue 2 www.wyandotte-nation.org May 2020

See inside for the latest news and adjustments due to COVID-19

A New Reality Wyandotte Nation makes changes to help stop spread of virus

Gyah’-wish Atak-ia is published quarterly for Tribal Citizens by the Wyandotte Nation at its Inside: headquarters in Wyandotte, Okla. • First classes graduate from Wyandotte The Wyandotte Nation (918) 678-2297 YOUniversity 64700 E Hwy 60 (800) 256-2539 • Tribal Department Reports Wyandotte, OK 74370 Fax (918) 678-2944

(C) Copyright 2020. All information, photographs, and other materials are copyrighted, and may not be reproduced without prior written consent of the Wyandotte Nation. Page 2 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia May 2020

Board of Directors From the Chief Billy Friend Chief...... Billy Friend Second Chief.....Norman Hildebrand, Jr. Councilperson...... Ramona Reid Councilperson...... Vivian Fink Councilperson...... Juanita McQuistion Facing the challenge Councilperson...... Eric Lofland

Dear Wyandotte Citizens: steps in our actions. We must do We are taking it in stages, but the We are all clearly aware the coro- all we can to keep people safe even truth is — as someone said yester- Content navirus disease (COVID-19) is highly when it results in economic and day in the media — “we don't make contagious and dangerous. We have social impacts on the Wyandotte the timeline, the virus makes the CALENDAR...... 3 received specific warnings and direc- Nation. timeline”. Annual Meeting Notice...... 3 tions from the National Institutes of We will continue to compensate Fortunately the Tribe has strong COVID-19 Changes...... 4 Health and the Centers for Disease our employees during this time of reserves and can operate without Service Awards...... 4 Control and Prevention. emergency, and we will endeavor to major disruptions for a while, but Wyandotte YOUniversity...... 5-6 At the Wyandotte Nation, we have maintain all essential programs and there is a limit and a time that if this WTOK closes casinos temporarily...... 5 taken across-the-board action to dull services at proper levels. continues we will have to make some Tribal Department Reports...... 7-12 the impact of the virus and keep Our Bearskin Clinic remains open hard decisions. Important Numbers...... 11 Wyandotte citizens, employees and and our caregivers are dedicated to Our Emergency Response Team our customers safe. serving our Wyandotte and other will continue to meet on a weekly In mid-March, we announced the community patients. We are fortu- basis to re-evaluate the situation and closure of a number of Wyandotte nate to have our remarkable medi- determine our plans going forward. facilities. These closures included cal professionals and health care We will post updates to our website Editor/Design: William Swaim our Title VI Program (Elder Nutri- support staff. They are sacrificing based upon the best available infor- Cover Photo: tion Center) inside meals, Preschool daily to ensure our patients are well mation and through social media as A collection of and Childcare Facilities, Wyandotte cared for. they occur. courtesy photos cultural sites and all Wyandotte The actions we can take on our We can conquer this challenge if during the re- casinos. own as individuals and families are we will all stick together and do the cent COVID-19 I want to commend our Elder simple and straightforward. The key things we know we need to do. This changes. Nutrition Center employees for is to practice those directions fully is a time when we must look out continuing to go above and beyond and regularly. for each other, and for the common to make sure our elders are served All of us at the Wyandotte Na- good of our Tribe, our state and our meals both through a drive through tion take this national public health country. take-out approach and by delivering emergency very seriously. We are Thank you for joining in this effort Contact Us meals to our local elders. doing all we can to protect people and may God bless you and may These closures represent the sig- from the virus, and ensure they have God continue to bless the Wyandotte Submit a story idea or your latest news nificance of this public health crisis. the essentials they need during this Nation. and photos. To submit, email William We simply cannot take incremental period. Swaim at [email protected] or call (918) 932-4778.

Have News? Share it From the Second Chief Norman Hildebrand, Jr. We want to hear from you! Send us news or stories you may have or suggest features for us to work on. Email: [email protected] We are a hardy, reslient people

Kweh Omateru perfect Utopian Society except for have been through numerous epi- As I am sitting here thinking a war with another tribe now and demics some natural but let us not about what to write during one of then. We even survived contact with forget the ones that were man made. www.youtube.com/WyandotteNation the biggest pandemics to hit the the Norsemen and they think Asians Like the Small Pox laced blankets since the Spanish sometime in the 11th and 12th cen- that the Federal Government gave to Flu that ravaged the U.S. over 100 turies. It would be a good guess that the Great Plains Tribes. They would years ago, the only thing that comes the natives fought fiercely with them never admit to it but it happened, to mind is what Indian Country has and sent them back to where they because I have personally seen endured since first contact with the had come, if only the Wampanoag’s some of the graves in South Dakota. Europeans. Up until the mid 1530s would have done the same thing with We have lived through many Flu when the Europeans first wandered the Pilgrims I am sure we would www.facebook.com/WyandotteNation into our world, the American Indians have been a lot better off. were disease free, lived in a near Since then the American Indians See SECOND CHIEF, Page 3 May 2020 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 3 Upcoming Events 2020

Gathering of Little Turtles Fireworks Celebration! The Gathering Cancelled July Sept. 2 9 - 11

31st Annual Pow-Wow Annual Meeting Town Hall Meetings

Sept. Sept. Oct. 11 - 13 12 3-4 10 am Newport Beach & Sacramento, Calif.

All events in Wyandotte, Okla. unless otherwise noted

“Corporations have been enthroned …. An era of cor- 2nd Chief ruption in high places will follow and the money power Public Continued from Page 2 will endeavor to prolong its reign by working on the epidemics, Measles, Rubella, Teta- Notice nus, Malaria, Polio, and let us not prejudices of the people… until wealth is aggregated forget the massacres of men, women in a few hands … and the Republic is destroyed.” and children. We have survived Notice of Annual Meeting everything that nature and man has -- Abraham Lincoln thrown at us and yet we survive and On September 12, 2020 the we will keep on surviving because Wyandotte Nation shall hold their that is in our blood. We are a hardy about the killing of dozens of Osage just get in there and do whatever Annual Meeting at the Bearskin resilient people from the beginning of Indians in the 1920s right here in needs to be done they are absolutely Fitness Center Gymnasium near time to centuries yet to come we will . Whatever you choose to the best. They make the Wyandotte Wyandotte, Oklahoma. Registration be here for eternity. do to kill time, whether it is reading, Nation what it is: the best in the will begin at 9 am and the Annual I hope everyone is staying at home gardening, painting, beading or any country. Meeting will start at 10 am. Please and practicing the safety measures other craft or hobby, please be safe. We are building a new administra- note that citizens will be required put forth to help us get through This will be a short article not tion building south of the fitness to present their Wyandotte Nation COVID-19 -- which we will. People much going on right now in Wyan- center and they are making pretty membership/citizenship card to are finding various ways to stay dotte, Okla., most everything is shut good progress. They would be doing register for the meeting. entertained now that they can’t down. We have only our essential better if the rain would hold off, The Election Committee of the Wy- get out and socialize. Some people employees working accounting, Title we have gotten twice as much rain andotte Nation has determined that put puzzles together, watch a lot of VI (they are only doing carry outs at than normal so far this year. The there are no contested posts for elective stupid stuff on television (believe me the front door). Turtle Stop is still long anticipated state line water line office within the government of the Wy- there is a lot of stupid stuff on TV) or open but only for limited hours, the project will soon be starting I signed andotte Nation for 2020. Therefore, it is do something the old fashioned way clinic pharmacy is still open but they the contract on it about a week ago not necessary to hold an election at the and read a book. I am reading a book will meet you at the door with meds. so they will be starting it very soon. tribe’s annual meeting on Saturday, “The Girl in the Photograph” writ- Getting through a crisis like this During these difficult times we must September 12, 2020 per the Wyandotte ten by former U.S. Senator Byron takes some very dedicated people all work together to overcome the Nation Constitution. Dorgan. Another excellent book is and we have the best people work- difficulties that will in the end only -- Dee Killion, Chairman, Election “The Killers of the Flower Moon” ing for us, they don’t complain they make us stronger. Committee Page 4 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia May 2020 Changes made to slow virus spread

public access to the building will be Leadership to formulate plan for reopening allowed during this time. Staff will be available to deliver meals to your The Wyandotte Nation, as part up with the latest regarding this 18. If services are needed, please vehicle. Please stay in your vehicle of our ongoing effort to reduce the situation. call or email. and drive through the driveway. spread of COVID-19 (Coronavirus), The following are the changes • The Bearskin Fitness Center • Housing – Activity Center and made several changes to keep our made back in March and will con- was closed March 17. Community Center was closed citizens, employees and guests safe tinue until otherwise posted on our • Turtle Tots (including preschool, March 17. in March and April. Tribal leader- website or social media. We thank and childcare) was closed March 19. • The Bearskin Clinic will provide ship is currently working on a everyone for your patience. • Wyandotte Nation Cultural limited services. Please call before plan for reopening. Please visit our • The Wyandotte Nation has oper- Center was closed March 18. coming to the clinic. Pharmacy website, www.wyandottenation.org, ated with essential employees and • Elders Services (Title VI) will services will continue. or our Facebook page, www.face- limited public access to emergency continue to serve lunch as TAKE For changes made regarding our book.com/wyandottenation to keep services, which was effective March OUT ONLY from 11 am – 1 pm. No businesses, see page 5.

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT: Service Awards The Wyandotte Nation Tribal Court is in search of an individual to fill the position of Supreme Court Justice. To be eligible for selection or confirmation as a Justice of the Supreme Court, a person shall: if an attorney, be a licensed attorney who is in good standing with the licens- ing authorities where licensed; who possesses a demonstrated back- ground in tribal court practice, and have demonstrated moral integrity and fairness in his business, public and private life, and have never been convicted of a felony or an offense punishable by banishment, whether or not actually imprisoned or ban- ished, and have not been convicted of any offense, except traffic offenses, for a period of two years next preced- ing his appointment. The two year period shall begin to run from the date the person was unconditionally released from supervision of any sort as a result of a conviction. The candidate must have regular- ly abstained from the excessive use of alcohol and use of illegal drugs or psychotoxic chemical solvents. The candidate must not be less than (25) twenty-five years of age. William Swaim/Wyandotte Nation Indian preference will apply for On Thursday, March 5, the Wyandotte Nation honored six employees for their service. Chief Billy Friend and Second Chief Norman Hildebrand honored Kathy DeWeese for her 25 years of service, Steve Walker for 20 qualified candidates. years, Don Graham for 10, and Debra Haynes, Teresa Wilson and Rob Graham for five years of service. Please submit your resume’ or CV (Pictured from left) Second Chief Norman Hildebrand, Kathy DeWeese, Debra Haynes, Steve Walker, Don to Jan Grant, Court Administrator Graham, Rob Graham, and Chief Billy Friend. Not pictured: Teresa Wilson. via email to jgrant@wyanodtte- nation.org by May 31, 2020. May 2020 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 5 First classes graduate from Wyandotte YOUniversity By William Swaim Wyandotte Nation Wyandotte YOUniversity gradu- ated its first classes from employees at River Bend Casino & Hotel in Wyandotte and 7th Street Casino in City recently. Wyan- dotte Tribe of Oklahoma (WTOK) celebrated their accomplishments Wednesday, Feb. 26 at the River Bend Casino & Hotel and March 3 at 7th Street. The graduates from River Bend included Tara Martinez, Lori Clark, Kristia Fox, Melissa Asaro, Carrie Sargent, Joanna Hadley, and Shirley Mangold. “When someone completes four years of college or four years of training on the job, all it does is strengthen the team, and makes us better at what we do day in and day out,” said River Bend Casino & Ho- tel General Manager Gary Johnson at the ceremony. “We’ve invested in you and hopefully you have invested in yourself, and those two things put together make a great team.” The graduates from 7th Street included John Maxwell, Larry An- derson, Kelsie Dice, Mica Chambers, Anna Salzano, and Kim Bary. “It has been a pleasure working and learning with the 7th Street William Swaim/Wyandotte Nation team for the past four years of Vera Hernandez congratulates Shirley Mangold on her recent graduation from Wyandotte YOUniversity. this training program,” said Edie Ingram, Manager of Training and The purpose of Wyandotte YOUni- and develop leaders and to equip Matters, which includes a personal- Organization Development. “They versity’s Leadership Development those same leaders with tools to be- ity assessment that provides growth take training serious and were Program is to prepare employees for come better leaders and to empower in self-awareness and relationship willing to go above and beyond what current and future leadership roles them to lead once they complete building. The program includes was asked of them.” by providing a structured program of our program,” said Ingram. “I am classroom training facilitated by The graduates of Wyandotte study of essential leadership compe- so excited about where we are now YOUniversity completed a four-year tencies. with this program.” leadership development program. “Our purpose is to provide training The program begins with Motive See YOUNIVERSITY, Page 6 WTOK to keep casinos closed through April

Turtle Stop in Wyandotte adjusts hours website based upon the best avail- Our Turtle Stop in Wyandotte has able information and through social new hours. The Turtle Stop will be The Wyandotte Nation will keep said. "We are committed to following media as they occur. open from 5 am to 11 pm daily. For the River Bend Casino & Hotel and the recommendations released by "Unfortunately, we don't know the time being gas will not be avail- the Lucky Turtle Casino in Wyan- federal health officials to ensure we when it will be safe for operations able at the pump when the store dotte, and the 7th Street Casino in are protecting the public." to resume, but with the support of is closed, however we are working Kansas City closed through April. The Tribe’s Emergency Response federal and tribal health experts, we out a way to have pay at the pump “The health and safety of our Team will continue to meet on a are working to determine our next services when the store is closed. We citizens, employees, and our guests weekly basis to re-evaluate the best steps," Chief Friend said. will keep you updated when that continues to be of utmost impor- situation and determine plans going might be available. tance to us,” Chief Billy Friend forward. We will post updated to our Change in hours at Turtle Stop: Page 6 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia May 2020 YOUNIVERSITY Continued from Page 5 and the business/profession. Graduates of the program must Edie Ingram, Manager of Training complete four years of training with and Organizations Development. a 100 percent attendance rate as Outside speakers also provide well as completing 100 percent of the classroom training. The program online assignments. This is quite an provides on-demand online access to accomplishment and we are proud over 14,000 online training videos of these graduates and look forward that address topics important to to a future of developing more great leaders in today’s workforce. leaders through Wyandotte YOUni- The goals in the program are: versity. • Identify members with potential “I don’t think we could emphasize to become leaders and invest in their enough how important the gradu- professional growth and development; ates today are to what we are doing • Provide these high potential every day,” said WTOK CEO Kelly leaders with skills required to step Carpino. “You are the key to moti- into leadership positions; vating our people to accomplish we • Energize and grow Strong lead- need to get done to create the best ership at all levels of the business; experience for our guests. I just want • Increase the future leaders’ knowl- to express my gratitude for the effort edge of leadership qualities, techniques you put into the program.”

William Swaim/Wyandotte Nation (PICTURED TOP RIGHT) -- Back Row (from left): Cage/Vault Manager Vera Hernandez, Senior Controller, Gaming Division, Carla King, EVS Supervisor Tara Martinez, Purchasing Coordinator Lori Clark, Revenue Audit Manager Kristia Fox, Operations Compliance Officer Melissa Asaro, Dining Supervisor Carrie Sargent, Facilities Manager Reilly McLaughlin, General Manager Gary Johnson. Front Row (from left): Marketing Manager Joanna Hadley, Cage Vault Supervisor Shirley Mangold, CEO Kelly Carpino, and Manager of Training and Organization Development Edie Ingram.

(PICTURED BOTTOM RIGHT) -- Front Row (from left): Edie Ingram, Kim Bary, Jerrell Royal, Jillian Rainingbird. Back Row (from left): Kelly Carpino, Anna Salzano, John Maxwell, Mica Chambers, Kevin Lien, and Brad Waddell. Gradu- ates not pictured: Larry Anderson, Kelsie Dice.

Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women Awareness Month Native American and Alaska Na- Overall, more than 1.5 million tive women face higher rates of vio- American Indian and Alaska Native lence than the general populace with women have experienced violence in more than four out of five indigenous their lifetime, which contributes to women experiencing some type of the epidemic of missing and mur- violence in their lifetime, according dered indigenous women and girls, to a study from the National Insti- according to the study. tute of Justice. That violence can Many of the women who do end up include stalking, sexual violence or the victims of abduction or murder physical or psychological aggression were previously assaulted, often by by an intimate partner. their partner. If you or someone you According to the urban institute know needs help leaving a violent report, 5,712 cases of missing relationship please call Lisa Arnold American Indian and Alaska Native at (918) 678-6324 or the National, women and girls were reported to Native Specific Domestic Violence the National Crime Information hotline, Strong Hearts at (844) 7NA- Center in 2016 alone. TIVE (762-8483). May 2020 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 7 Tribal Department Reports Human Resources Family Services Radabaugh, Family Services Assistant, and school supply fees charged by Submitted by Deana Howard, HR Submitted by Dana Butterfield, (918) 678-6329; Tiffany Garner, ICW schools. Applications must be received Director Family Services Director Social Worker, (918) 678-6353; Lisa or postmarked by Sept. 30, 2020, no Arnold, Domestic Violence & Sexual exceptions. Applications and receipts The Wyandotte Nation Education During this monumental time of Assault Advocate Supervisor, (918) must be original documents. Faxed or Department would like to welcome Lysa uncertainty in our country, I encourage 678-6324; and Cesilie Hale OVC emailed applications and receipts will Ellis as a part-time our citizens to reflect on their heritage. Domestic Violence Advocate, (918) not be accepted. There will be addi- After School Child- While we have never had to deal with 678-3269. tional information available with the care Assistant and conditions such as they are now, our applications beginning July 1. Tracy Mooney as ancestors had to endure many trials LIHEAP – Summer LIHEAP will Senior Energy – Please note this an Early Childhood and because of their strength and be available July 1 for tribal citizens program is available Nationwide to Food Service Cook. resilience, we are a strong and vibrant residing in Oklahoma and is income tribal citizens 55 and older. Beginning Lysa gradu- Nation today. based. This is a small grant, so fund- July 1 applications will be available ated from Wyandotte As I write this article, the majority ing is limited and is available on a first for $100 assistance paid directly to the High School in 2005. of Wyandotte Nation employees are come, first serve basis. utility provider. Applications must be Her hobbies include either working from home or off due to School Supplies – PLEASE READ received or postmarked by Sept. 30. If baking and cooking, the coronavirus. Indian Child Welfare APPLICATIONS CAREFULLY- this is the first time using the program ELLIS reading, and DIY workers are continuing to have contact INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS please allow 30-60 days to process. projects. She also with Wyandotte children in custody via WILL BE RETURNED FOR CORREC- Elders Assistance – One-time ex- enjoys spending time with her family, either phone or video and are providing TIONS: Applications will be available pense for $250 for tribal elders aged 55 movie nights, and walks in the park, assistance to families through preser- beginning July 1 on the Wyandotte and over who reside in the 4-state area fishing and swimming. We are happy vation resources. The Domestic Vio- Nation website, at the Family Services (OK, KS, AR, MO). Applications must to have Lysa join our team. lence Advocates are also working with office or can be faxed/emailed. Tribal be received or postmarked by Sept. 30, Tracy comes to us with previous food their clients to ensure their safety. A citizens residing in the 4-state area 2020 to be eligible. service experience member of the Family Services staff (OK, KS, AR, MO) can receive a $100 Extra-Expense/Extracurricular and loves working is in the office daily to answer ques- Walmart gift card or submit receipts Activities – One-time payment of $100 with children. Tracy tions and process mail. I would like to for reimbursement up to $100. Please per student aged Pre – K through 12th transferred from one thank all of our front line workers who note there are separate applications grade for tribal citizens who reside in of our other entities. continue to provide services during this for the gift card and reimbursement. the 4-state area (OK, KS, MO, AR). She enjoys spending pandemic and look forward to a time The correct application must be used. Applications must be received or post- time with her family when this has passed and we can all be Tribal citizens who reside outside of marked by Sept. 30. and friends. We are working together again for the good of the 4-state area will be eligible for Jr/Sr Benefit - $250 benefit for very fortunate to our Tribe and country. the $100 reimbursement program. expenses associated with the Junior have Tracy on our In accordance with the Wyandotte Eligible items for the program are MOONEY team and wish her Nation Constitution, the Annual Meet- school supplies, clothing, shoes, socks Continued on Page 8 the best of luck in ing will be held the second Saturday in her new position. September. The date and time for this The Facilities Department welcomes year’s meeting will be Sept. 12 at 10 David (D.J.) Burleson as a Facilities am, with registration opening at 9 am. Wyandotte Nation Technician. D.J. is a Nation There will not be an election this year, Tribal Citizen. He graduated from Wy- but tribal citizens are still required to Family Services Programs andotte High School. He received his show either their Membership card Dates to Remember Associates Degree or Citizenship card to register for from NEO A&M the meeting and receive their travel College, attended gift certificates. Both of these cards Elder’s Assistance: Oct. 1 – Sept. 30 Southwestern Okla- include your roll number; the CDIB Senior Energy - Winter: Oct. 1 – Feb. 28 homa State Univer- (Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood) sity in Weatherford, card/certificate is NOT sufficient, as it Senior Energy - Summer: July 1 – Sept. 30 Okla., and has taken does not provide proof of enrollment. LIHEAP - (if available) Winter: Dec. 1 – Feb. 28 courses in electrical I want to apologize to Mr. George LIHEAP - (if available) Summer: July 1 – Sept. 30 and HVAC. D.J. Nickel as his name was inadvertently School Supplies: July 1 – Sept. 30 has several years left off of the new member lists that Children’s Winter Clothing: Nov. 1 – Feb. 28 of experience in the were shared in the November and BURELSON construction field. February newsletters. Extracurricular Activities: Oct. 1 – Sept. 30 D.J.’s hobbies include playing pool, Below you will find details about Jr./Sr. High School Assistance: Oct. 1 – Sept. 30 throwing darts, and shooting traditional all of the programs available through Wyandotte Nation Annual Meeting: Sept. 12 long bows. He enjoys spending time the Family Services Department. If Children’s Christmas Party: Dec. 12 with his wife, working on their place, you have questions or need additional and hunting, and fishing together. D.J. information please don’t hesitate to (Second Saturday of September each year) is a transfer from River Bend Casino contact a member of the staff: Note: All applications must be in our office or post marked on or before & Hotel. We are very fortunate to have Dana Butterfield, Director, (918) the last day of the program. D.J. on our team and wish him much 678-6319; Tara Gragg, ICW Su- success in his new position. pervisor, (918) 678-6355; Leeanna Page 8 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia May 2020 Tribal Department Reports

Continued from Page 7 the 2020 Annual Meeting. Applica- some instances. Please keep in mind Education and Senior years of High School. This tions must be submitted along with an that your Member ID # is not your benefit is available to Wyandotte Na- original state certified birth certificate. social security number. Your Member Submitted by Cristi Hudson, Edu- tion citizens who reside in the 4-state Applications received after this date ID looks like this: WY000(your 4 digit cation Director area (OK, KS, MO, AR) and applica- will be held until the 2021 Annual roll number). If your roll number is tions must be received or postmarked Meeting so it’s important to get those only 3 digits you will add a 0 (zero) to Kweh, I hope this article finds you and your by Sept. 30, 2020. applications in on time. the beginning of your roll number. family safe and well! The Education Fuel Assistance – Fuel assistance New Enrollee Benefit - If a child’s Burial Assistance - $1,500 to be Department is doing our best to help programs include: Hardship – per- application is received prior to their paid to the funeral home or to the fam- flatten the curve of the COVID 19 pan- sonal hardships, travel for work/job first birthday they will receive a $100 ily representative if the funeral is paid demic that we are all currently facing. interviews, etc. Medical – travel to/ Walmart gift card and a blanket with in full. Our offices are currently closed to foot from doctor/dental appointments and the Tribal Turtle. Family Violence Prevention Pro- traffic, but we are available by email and pick up prescriptions. Major Medi- Tribal Tags – Available for tribal gram – Program provides advocacy phone. We are going into the office to cal – extreme medical issues (must be citizens who reside in Oklahoma. Pas- and services to victims/survivors of do- check mail and to answer any messages life threaten, terminal, etc. not chronic senger, RV, Motorcycle and Handicap mestic violence, sexual assault, dating almost daily throughout the week. For medical issues) that require multiple tags are available. Please call the violence and stalking. This program is immediate assistance, you may call (918) trips outside of the local area. Program office for prices and additional infor- available to any person residing within 533-0072, and I will be able to assist you, provides fuel vouchers through the mation. Some things to keep in mind a 25-mile radius of the tribal head- or you can send me an email at chud- [email protected]. Turtle Stop convenience store for local when renewing tags and purchasing quarters and limited advocacy can be The Child Care and Development new vehicles: provided for Wyandotte Nation citizens tribal citizens or tribal citizens who Fund program is currently accepting travel to the Bearskin Healthcare and Tribal citizen’s name MUST be nationwide. The Program also hosts applications for families that are in need Wellness Center. on the title at the time of sale. Tax quarterly culture events, in conjunc- of childcare assistance. If you are in need Child Safety Seats - Each child is Commission staff cannot add or delete tion with the Heritage Department. of childcare assistance and have not ap- eligible for three seats in different sizes names. Foster Family Recruitment – plied, we would be happy to assist in get- and must be picked up at the tribal Renewal notices are mailed as a Indian Child Welfare social workers ting an application to you. Parents must office. courtesy by the 15th of the month prior are actively seeking foster families. If be working or attending school to apply. Promoting Safe & Stable Fami- to the expiration. you think this might be something you To be eligible for the Wyandotte Nation lies/Indian Child Welfare – This Current insurance verification is would be interested in please contact CCDF program, a household member program is funded through a federal required. Please have a paper copy of the office for more information. must obtain a CDIB or tribal card. To grant from the Administration for Chil- this when coming to the office. request and application, or if you have dren and Families. It is designed to Supplemental Health Ben- any questions, you can email Sami But- terfield, our Child Care Coordinator, at help keep children in their homes with efit (Benny Card) - $1,000 per year Family Services Staff: [email protected]; or the family, or ensure that if there is a benefit for adult (18 and over) tribal Director, Dana Butterfield, (918) 678- you can call her office at (918) 678-6330. need for removal, federal guidelines citizens beginning Jan. 1 each year. 6319, [email protected] The Wyandotte Nation Library is are adhered to and the best interest Tribal citizens who have enrolled Wy- ICW Supervisor, Tara Gragg, (918) rearranging the many books and mov- of the child is considered first and andotte Nation dependents will receive 678-6355, [email protected] ies, which the library currently checks foremost. If you are involved in a child an additional $1,000 for a maximum of ICW Worker, Tiffany Garner, (918) out to the patrons, into the new area we welfare case please contact either Tara $2,000 per account. Quarterly state- 678-6353, [email protected] recently added for our toddler, preschool, or Tiffany. We often get calls request- ments are mailed by Trustmark to Assistant, Leeanna Radabaugh, (918) afterschool, and summer programs. The ing assistance with civil matters such show remaining balances. Account bal- 678-6329, lradabaugh@wyandotte- as divorces and custody issues between ances can also be obtained at any time nation.org Continued on Page 9 parents. The Tribe is not an eligible via www.mytrustmarkbenefits.com or DV Advocate/Educator Supervisor, party to those types of cases and are by calling (800) 990-9058 ext 42086. Lisa Arnold, (918) 678-6324, lisaar- unable to assist at this time. Family Services staff can also answer [email protected] Enrollment – Aug. 15 is the dead- questions about the program, but may DV Advocate, Cesilie Hale, (918) 678- TAG REMINDERS: line to be considered for enrollment at need to refer you to CoreSource in 3269, [email protected] • Must be an enrolled citizen of the Wyandotte Nation, an Oklahoma resident AND the car must be prin- cipally garaged in Oklahoma Indian Start your journey today You don’t have to be perfect to be a foster parent! country. • Oklahoma Insurance Verification must accompany renewals (except Every year thousands of children are placed in fos- for RV’s and Travel Trailers). ter care. When a child who is a member or is eligible • If you are purchasing a new/used for membership in the Wyandotte Nation is placed vehicle, the Tribal citizen’s name MUST be on the Title at the time of into foster, the ideal situation is for that child to be assignment. Wyandotte Nation Tax either with family or in another Wyandotte tribal Commission staff CAN NOT add or home. Children need a safe, loving place to stay. That is all you need to start the process of becom- delete names. For questions, please call (918) 678- ing a foster parent. It doesn’t matter where you live, please contact the Family Services Department 6329 or (918) 678-6319 to start your journey today. May 2020 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 9 Tribal Department Reports

Continued from Page 8 Tribal Police Department (Pending) Ottawa County Senior Day, June 11 at the Buffalo Run Casino from Library will have new hours once we open Submitted by Glenn Johnston, Chief of Police 9 am to 1 pm. back up to the public. The new hours will be Monday through Thursday 8 am to We want to thank everyone who CAREGIVER 5:30 pm and Friday 8 am to 3:30 pm. participated in the Pancake Feed. It was (Pending) The Caregiver Support The Wyandotte Nation Scholarship a bigger success than we anticipated, due Program is currently processing the Group meets the first Thursday of each to the present worldwide condition. The spring semester scholarships. Here are month in the Artie Nesvold Community a few Wyandotte Nation Undergraduate employees of Title VI were there for us and Center (Title VI) Safe Room beginning Scholarship reminders: made it as great as it was! Thank you so at 10:30 am. This group is for all current • Undergraduate scholarships are very much guys! and former caregivers. It is also for limited to eight (8) semesters. I want to let everyone know that even Grandparents raising grandchildren. • Students will be placed on probation during the test of times we are experienc- It is always a pleasure serving the Wy- for failure to complete 12 hours or more ing, the storm shelters located on Wy- andotte Nation Citizens. Please feel free with a minimum of a 2.0 GPA. andotte Nation property, WILL be open to call or come by and visit us anytime. • Students will be allowed one proba- should severe weather decide to rear its ugly head. It is there for the taking, tionary semester during the programs it will be strictly up to each individual if he or she decide to take advantage of Department Contacts: Brenda House, Elder Services Director, duration. the facilities. Safety is first and foremost, and that sounds like a double edged (918) 678-6327. • Deadline for spring submission is sword. Especially with the virus. I would just ask that each person take the February 15. Stephanie Hamilton, Food Service precautionary steps to stay healthy or as close to it if, and when, the severe • Deadline for fall submission is May 1. Team Supervisor, (918) 678-6328, (Of- weather arrives. If anyone does decide not to take advantage of the storm If you have sent in the required fice) 6390 paperwork and have not received the shelters, hopefully the quarantine phase will pass by then, just put together a Seth Higginbotham, Chris Rhodes scholarship for the current semester, little kit that could save you some time and trouble down the road: and Robyn Beaty, Food Service Team please email the office to make sure the • Weather Radios: Most of the weather radios are a very good tool due to the Members (918) 678-6328 paperwork has been received. Email fact that most of the television weather is coming to us from televisions north Menu, (918) 678-6326 Evan Hotulke, our Education Specialist, of us. The weather radio monitors weather stations in the Tulsa, Okla., area at [email protected]. where most of the bad weather seems to develop before heading our way. The Wyandotte Nation Education • Cell Phones: Make sure you have your cell phone charged up when you Department also oversees the WIOA know severe weather is a possibility. An extra charged battery is not a bad Planning & Natural program. These funds are available to idea either. Keep that charging cord close. assist members of federally recognized • Storage for your important documents: Find yourself a good waterproof Resources tribes residing in Crawford and Chero- container to put your photo ID’s, birth certificates, deeds or leases and photo- kee Counties in Southeast Kansas or Submitted by Christen Lee, Envi- graphs of belongings. Especially those with a serial number. Barry, Barton, Dade, Jasper, Lawrence, ronmental & Planning Director Newton and McDonald Counties in • First Aid Kit: If you can find yourself a second container, keep some gauze Southwest Missouri. bandages, gloves, medications and prescription drugs in it. It’s so much easier January started off with its usual WIOA eligibility requirements include: to grab one thing and know that everything you may need is right there. business of monthly water sampling on • You must be Native America, Alaska • Rain gear: Keep yourself a poncho and rubber boots in a convenient area. eight sites on streams and rivers within Native, or Native Hawaiian • Cash or Travelers Checks: Even the ATM machines and the card reader the Wyandotte Nation jurisdictional • Possess a C.D.I.B. card at the local retailers could be vulnerable to the bad weather. Keep $50 to $100 area. • Member of a federally recognized tribe dollars stashed away for that rainy day. On Jan. 22, environmental staff met • Must be a resident of the service • Whistle or Horn: If you do get caught in a storm and need to get someone’s with Wyandotte Schools Teacher Bob area listed above attention, try storing a couple of the Freon Air Horns away in that piece of Coffey to provide a recycle collections Tupperware you have labeled as “FIRST AID KIT.” Even something as simple trailer for the school. Students from To obtain any of the scholarships that as a whistle is a great source of getting someone’s attention as well. Wyandotte Nation offers, email your Mr. Coffey’s class will be in charge Get geared up for National Night Out coming up in October. It will be here request or any questions that you may of monitoring the trailer, collecting before you know it! have to Evan, ehotulke@wyandotte- recyclables from various classrooms and nation.org, or you can request one by drop points within the Grade School, Jr. calling his office at (918) 678-6331. High and High School. We are available to assist you with On Jan. 29, environmental staff were babies with them to pick up their meals so the application process in any of our Elder Services able to take part in a Recycling Educa- programs and we look forward to work- we have treats for them as well. ing with you soon. Submitted by Brenda House, Elder Chief Billy Friend, Family Services Services Director Director Dana Butterfield and other vol- Department Contacts: unteers are helping deliver meals to our Cristi Hudson – Education Director, What an unusual St Patrick’s Day we elders in the housing addition behind the (918) 678-6334 or chudson@wyandotte- had! On March 17, with the COVID-19 Tribe while other volunteers are helping nation.org Virus, lurking around, we chose to close the Title VI Staff cook and package the Sami Butterfield – Childcare Co- our congregate meal program and hold meals for the drive thu. We greatly ap- ordinator – CCDF, (918) 678-6330 or drive through meals only for the safety preciate everyone that has stepped up to [email protected] of our elders and employees. help make sure that our beloved elders Lindsay Cooper – Early Childhood With the shortage of toilet paper, we are getting the best care possible. Program Coordinator, (918) 678-3267 or were very blessed to find a stash in our out [email protected] building so we started handing toilet paper Upcoming Events (Subject to Evan Hotulke—Education Specialist, out with our meals. I think they were change based on current events): (918) 678-6331 or ehotulke@wyandotte- more excited over the toilet paper than the (Pending) Our Mother’s Day Dinner, nation.org meals! Some of the elders bring their fur May 7, and Father’s Day Dinner, June 18. Continued on Page 10 Page 10 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia May 2020 Tribal Department Reports Important Housing Submitted by Kathy DeWeese, ing and Self-Determination Act) is the installing septic systems, rural water Housing Director program governed by the Department hook-ups, and connections to city wa- Numbers of Housing and Urban Development ter and sewer. There are no income Due to COVID-19, our offices have (HUD). Each year a Housing Plan must guidelines. Tribal citizens must re- Police Department remained closed to the public. Em- be submitted and approved by HUD. side in the following counties: Craig; Glenn Johnston (918) 678-6365 ployees have only been working partial This plan provides for the upkeep of Na- Creek; Delaware; Mayes; Nowata; [email protected] hours, and only doing essential housing hasda units, rental assistance to college Okfuskee; Okmulgee; Ottawa; Rog- needs. The Drop Box in the foyer of the students and down payment assistance, ers; Tulsa; Wagoner; Washington. community center is available for all as well as the day-to-day activities of the NOTE: If you have been terminated Family Services / Enrollment / Tags correspondence and payments. This Department. at your place of employment, placed Dana Butterfield (918) 678-6319 includes housing, tags, and Wyandotte If you are purchasing a home within on furlough, or had hours cut due to [email protected] Utilities. a 50-mile radius of Wyandotte, and COVID-19, you may be eligible for Leeanna Radabaugh, (918) 678-6329, lrada- The Heritage Acres Community are a first time homebuyer, let us see assistance. Please contact the housing [email protected] Center has also been closed. If you if we can help you with down payment office at (918) 678-6339. Family Violence Program have a rental date for the center, please assistance. The participant must meet Lisa Arnold, (918) 678-6324, lisaarnold@ contact our office. Any activities for income guidelines and be eligible for a Department Contacts: wyandotte-nation.org; Cesilie Hale, (918) 678- April have been cancelled. If you have conventional loan. Kathy DeWeese-Housing Director 3269, [email protected] a rental in May, contact our office for Don Graham- Housing Specialist Tribal Social Workers information. The Splashpad, which IHS-121 PROGRAM: This program Paul Parker- Project Coordinator Tara Gragg (918) 678-6355 was scheduled to open May 18, will is funded through the Department of Levi Griffin- Project Coordinator [email protected] probably be delayed. It is our hope that Health & Human Services, to ensure Larry Hamilton- Residential Tiffany Garner (918) 678-6353 this will be available soon, but it will safe drinking water and proper sanita- Maintenance Technician [email protected] depend on the circumstances. tion facilities for our tribal families. Drew Lankford-Residential Main- Nahasda (Native American Hous- These services include drilling wells, tenance Technician

Human Resources Deana Howard (918) 678-6320 Continued from Page 9 [email protected] trator, Acting Chief of Staff, and GAP nation.org Nutrition & Caregiver Services Project Officer for Region 6 visited with Environmental Technician 1 Janice tion Event at Wyandotte Public Schools. Chief Billy Friend, Christen Lee and Wilson, [email protected] Brenda House (918) 678-6327 Wyandotte Schools Art Teacher Trenda [email protected] Kathleen, to discuss tribal environmen- Environmental Technician 2 Brittany Crow and her students received state Education / Library / Child Care tal concerns. Crowe, [email protected] recognition for an art project using Cristi Hudson (918) 678-6334 Due to the threat of COVID-19, many Recycling Center Coordinator John [email protected] recycled materials. of our operational duties have been put Quick, [email protected] Tribal Heritage on hold, as staff have been furloughed Land Management Technician Robby Sherri Clemons (918) 678-6344 indefinitely. During this time, Kathleen Graham, [email protected] [email protected] and Christen have been keeping up Water Utilities Operator Braulio, Environmental / Planning / Development with EPA correspondence and calls, Ramirez [email protected] Christen Lee (918) 678-6341 natural resource damages, restoration Grant Writer 1 Debbie Dry, ddry@ [email protected] calls and webinars. wyandotte-nation.org Housing It was also determined that due to Grant Writer 2 Michael Lowery, Kathy DeWeese (918) 678-6339 area schools being closed for the dura- [email protected] [email protected] tion of the school year due to the virus, we decided it was best to cancel our An- Bearskin Healthcare & nual Environmental Festival. This is Tribal Heritage Wellness Center sad for us, as we have had this event for On Jan. 31, Kathleen Welch and Submitted by Sherri Clemons, Kelly Friend (918) 678-3259 the past 12 years. With that, we look Janice Wilson met with Russell Dutnell Tribal Heritage Director [email protected] forward to brighter days, and hopefully of Riverman Engineering PLC to per- Clinic Appointments be able to return to a somewhat normal form a site walk of an area located on Dee Dee Clapp (918) 678-3228 schedule. Thank you, and stay safe!!! Kwe kwe all! There is not much to write [email protected] Sycamore Creek, directly south of the about due to the fact we have been closed Dental / Vision Pow-Wow Grounds. The purpose of the Save the Date: since March 18. As of right now, we are Ashley Crawford, (918) 678-3221, site walk is to come up with a design Northeast Oklahoma Tribal Resil- canceling our annual golf scramble, which [email protected] plan to stop stream bank erosion that liance Workshop at Nation – typically takes place in May. We have also Pharmacy (call-in only) is causing a large portion of the stream Feb. 4-5, 2020 cancelled the Gathering of Little Turtles (918) 678-3244 bank to sluff off during high water and Services Provided and the LaCrosse Camp as well. Fitness Center flooding conditions. Private Well Drinking Water Sam- We are still hosting the Gathering Sharon Bartley (918) 678-3231 On Feb. 4, Kathleen, Janice and Brit- pling; Private Home Owners Septic Ass- and Pow-Wow on the same dates as of [email protected] tany Crowe attended the NE Oklahoma sessments; Lost Creek Recycle Center. now as well as our fireworks display. Contract Health Tribal Resilience Workshop, which was Stay home and safe. The Cultural Bridget Hart (918) 678-3227 hosted by Quapaw Nation at the Down- Department Contacts: Center is closed until April 30 as of no. [email protected] stream Casino Conference Center. Due Director Christen Lee, clee@wyan- Leadership is continually evaluating Diabetes Clinic to inclement weather, we were unable to dotte-nation.org the situation and will determine any Donna Spaulding (918) 678-3258 attend the second day of the workshop. Environmental Program Manager extended closures, postponements or [email protected] On Feb. 13, EPA Regional Adminis- Kathleen Welch, kwelch@wyandotte- cancellations.