The Turtle Speaks Gyah’-Wish

Atak-iaA Wyandotte Nation Publication

Volume 23, Issue 4 www.wyandotte-nation.org November 2019

Shared History: Mission Church, land returned to Tribe Pages 4 - 6

Gyah’-wish Atak-ia is published quarterly for Tribal Citizens by the Wyandotte Nation at its Inside: headquarters in Wyandotte, Okla. • 30th Annual Wyandotte Nation Pow-Wow The Wyandotte Nation (918) 678-2297 • 'Gathering' sets more attendance records 64700 E Hwy 60 (800) 256-2539 • Scarecrow Run helps raise awareness Wyandotte, OK 74370 Fax (918) 678-2944

(C) Copyright 2019. All information, photographs, and other materials are copyrighted, and may not be reproduced without prior written consent of the Wyandotte Nation. Page 2 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia November 2019

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

State of the Nation Address 2019 traditions such as this Annual Meeting. kinds of options, many tasks still need Content (Speech given Sept. 14 at the An- As our ancestors put us on the road to be accomplished and many victories nual Meeting): to being the great nation of people we are yet to be won! The Wyandotte Good morning! It is a great day in the are today; so we owe them a debt of Nation has accomplished much, but we CALENDAR...... 3 Wyandotte Nation! A great day to be gratitude. Their foresight and desire to still have a lot to do, a lot ahead of us FEATURE: Shared History...... 4-5 Wyandotte! This is a day we celebrate make the future better have enabled us that we need to take on. Scarecrow Run & Proclamation...... 6 all that makes our nation and our to grow and prosper. As we celebrate It’s my privilege and honor to serve Breaking Ground...... 7 people strong. It has been a wonderful our remarkable achievements, let us as your Chief. FEATURE: Gathering...... 8-9 week, a great week in the Wyandotte also celebrate those who came before I appreciate the support you’ve given 30th Annual Pow-Wow...... 10-11 Nation! Our people have connected, us and made it possible for me to report me, and with your continued support, I Chili Feed raises money...... 12 reconnected, laughed and celebrated. It to you that the state of the Wyandotte look forward to continuing to serve you Community News...... 13 is truly a great day to be Wyandotte! Nation has never been better! as we work towards the betterment of Tribal Department Reports...... 14-19 Wyandotte people have always We have had another great year. The the Wyandotte Nation and its people Important Numbers...... 18 benefited from the foresight of our State of the Nation is still strong. This for many years to come. New Tribal Citizen Enrollment...... 20 ancestors, we have added to and built is because we all pull together, and Ladies and gentleman, as you have upon that foresight to become the great we make it happen together. We are seen and heard this morning, the state Editor/Design: William Swaim nation that we are today! family. We have a common bond that of the Wyandotte Nation is strong and Cover Photo: Without the dedication of our ances- connects us, a heritage that binds us getting stronger. The procession tors to make sure the Wyandotte Na- and a culture that keeps us thriving. Each one of you, all of you, are impor- to the Mission tion continued to exist and to grow, we Each citizen, every citizen, of our tribe tant in our continued story – one that Church would likely not be meeting here today plays an important role, as does every has no end, one that we will pass to our to review our accomplishments. tribal employee and all the people who children and their children after them. Photo: William It is that spirit of our forefathers are committed to the success of the Wy- We are a strong Nation…Let's Swaim which continues to fire our souls to this andotte Nation. We have many things celebrate that strength today. May God very day. And it is in that spirit that to celebrate today. We also have many bless you and may God continue to we continue the traditions of the past, things that keep us striving toward all bless the Wyandotte Nation. Contact Us Submit a story idea or your latest news and photos. To submit, email William Swaim at [email protected] or call From the Second Chief Norman Hildebrand, Jr. (918) 932-4778. Looking for Elders, Veterans for 'Kill the Indian, save the man' Feature Stories We are looking for tribal citizens to Kweh, There has been a lot of discussion feature in upcoming issues, whether you The weather here in Oklahoma has the last few years about the Indian that had been established by the live in the Oklahoma area or some far off finally broke and we are experiencing Boarding School that was located here Quakers at what is now Wyandotte, distant land, we want to hear your story! some really nice temperatures. Fall in Wyandotte, Okla. Okla. The children stayed at the is here and I cannot wait to see what “Kill the Indian, save the man” was school and were allowed to go home Have News? kind of winter that is on the horizon. the motto of Capt. Richard Henry each six weeks and to stay from Fri- In September, I had the pleasure of Pratt, the most prominent Indian Share it day to Sunday, only if their families experiencing history in Upper San- educator of the late 1800s. Progressive could afford to get them. A lot of the We want to hear from you! Send us dusky, Ohio where our last federally reformers like Pratt believed it was children ran away only to be caught news or stories you may have or suggest recognized reservation was located. essential to get Indian children away and returned. Jerry Hubbard was in features for us to work on. Global Ministries signed over the Old from their families and nations in charge of the school, they had good Email: [email protected] Mission Methodist Church to the Wy- order to prevent parents from raising teachers, who although strict, were andotte Nation. Anytime you can get a children in their own cultures. Reform- good to the children. They had very piece of an original reservation that you ers founded boarding schools where poor clothing, food and quarters as were forced to leave 175 years ago, and children could be isolated from Indian they would be judged to today’s stan- not have to pay for it, is monumental. languages, values and traditions. dards, but they were feeding, clothing It was an honor along with many of Cultural erasure was the stated goal. and teaching them at no expense to www.facebook.com/WyandotteNation our Wyandotte citizens to experience At that time there was no school in history in the making. this area except the mission school See SECOND CHIEF, Page 3 November 2019 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 3 Upcoming Events 2019 Elder Thanksgiving Childrens Christmas Party Elder Christmas

Nov. Dec. Dec. 14 14 19 11:30 am 1o am 11:30 am - 1 pm - Noon - 1 pm

2020 Town Hall Meetings Gathering of Little Turtles Fireworks Celebration!

March June July TBD / April 26 - 28 TBD

The Gathering 31st Annual Pow-Wow Annual Meeting

Sept. Sept. Sept. 9 - 11 11 - 13 12 10 am

All events in Wyandotte, Okla. unless otherwise noted

Second Chief Continued from Page 2 tresses, coarse blankets and no sheets. tubs of bread and as a boy moved up Their clothes were grey uniforms with their parents on what the school re- Breakfast consisted of boiled beef, to the peg in front of the tub one of the red stripes and the girls received blue ceived from the Federal Government. gravy, light bread and weak coffee. women would say “with or without”, flannel dresses. Conditions at boarding The boys had red duck pants put For dinner it was cornbread, beans, and if he said “with” he was given two schools changed somewhat when the together with rivets, hickory shirts of gravy and water. For supper there slices of the light bread put together Government either took them over or blue and white, brogan shoes, common was two tubs, one filled with sliced with molasses and if he said without started them themselves but the hard black hats, no socks and no underwear. light bread, in the other tub was two he was handed two slices of dry bread, truth is they still tried to “Kill the The girls wore blue denim all made slices put together with New Orleans and then they would proceed to the Indian, save the man.” alike with course canton flannel under- molasses and there were rows of pegs pump to get water and that was their As one well known Indian Leader wear, heavy shoes and the little girls about 2 feet apart, each boy took their supper. once said; “Let us put our minds to- had copper toes on their shoes. The place at the pegs with the larger boys In the early 1880s the Government gether and see what life we can make sleeping room or dorm, as you would in front and these led up to where took over the school and then they had for our children.” --Chief Sitting Bull say today was without fire, hard mat- two women were in charge of the two plenty to eat, good clothes and sheets. Page 4 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia November 2019 A remembrance of shared history Methodists return land, Mission Church to Tribe after 176 years

By William Swaim Wyandotte Nation

“Through many dangers, toils, and snares I have already come. 'Tis Grace hath brought me safe thus far And Grace will lead me home.”

For the first time in 176 years, the sound of ‘Amazing Grace’ flowed from the windows of the old Wy- andot Mission Church – sung by descendants of Wyandottes who once attended church there in the 1800s. The words, a profound reminder of the Tribe’s shared history with The United Methodist Church. In 1843, Wyandottes were forcibly removed from the Upper Sandusky, Ohio area by the U.S. Govern- ment, abandoning their land and entrusting the Mission Church to the Methodists. And while services were held at the church following the Wyandottes’ removal from the area, Sunday, Sept. 22, marked the first time tribal citizens once again gathered there for service – a service led by Chief Billy Friend. William Swaim/Wyandotte Nation (Above) Chief Billy Friend delivers a sermon during service at the old Wyandot Mission Church in Sandusky, Ohio, It followed what was an historic Sept. 22. (Below) Global Ministries General Secretary Thomas Kemper presents Chief Friend with the deed to the land. moment for the Wyandotte Na- tion the day before as The United Methodist Church returned some of “I think to have the Wyandotte the land, which included the Mission Nation be able to attend the old Church, to the Tribe. Mission Church, have Chief Friend “Such a great day, such a great talk to us, and offer a service for us in moment, it’s hard to even come up that building, in that location where with the words to say how grateful our ancestors attended, and lived we are today, how honored we are with their families and friends -- the by everyone that came out today,” peacefulness of it was touching,” Chief Friend said during the Sat- said Jodi Van Zanten, a tribal citizen urday ceremony after receiving the who made the flight from her home deed from Global Ministries General in California to join the road trip to Secretary Thomas Kemper of The Ohio. United Methodist Church. “When we left here, there were 664 Wyandottes who made that journey. Today we ‘A Remembrance of have 6,611 tribal citizens.” Nearly 90 tribal citizens made Our Shared History’ the trek from Wyandotte, Okla., to Upper Sandusky, Ohio, for the In 1843, the Tribe deeded the event. While the Saturday ceremony land to the Missionary Society of marked the historical occasion, the Methodist Episcopal Church, it was the Sunday church service signifying the importance of it all for those who made the journey. See SHARED HISTORY, Page 5 William Swaim/Wyandotte Nation November 2019 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 5 SHARED HISTORY “Such a great day, such a Continued from Page 4 great moment, it’s hard forerunner of today’s United Meth- to even come up with the odist Global Ministries, in order to protect its sanctity when the federal words to say how grateful government forced the tribe off their we are today, how hon- last reservation in the state of Ohio. From Ohio, the Tribe moved to ored we are by everyone Kansas before being forcibly re- that came out today” moved again to Oklahoma where the Wyandotte Nation resides today. --Chief Billy Friend The history between the Method- ists and Wyandottes, or Wyandots as they were known then, began long the 87th District presented Chief before the removal when in 1816 Friend with a declaration from his John Stewart became a missionary colleagues in the statehouse. Upper to the Wyandots in Ohio. Sandusky Mayor Scott Washburn Stewart was taken into the also spoke on the historic day. home of Jonothan Pointer, a black Following the opening ceremony, man who in his youth had been hundreds filed out of the church and kidnapped by the Wyandots, was ad- William Swaim/Wyandotte Nation took part in a processional walk, led opted into the Tribe, and learned the Princess Sara Wright presents 'The Lord's Prayer' in sign language. by Wyandotte Nation Honor Guard Wyandot language. Pointer served members Larry Hamilton, Dave as an interpreter for Stewart. historic shrine by the General of Anderdon Nation (Michigan) were Culver and John Webb, to the old Rev. James B. Finley was sent in Conference of the Methodist Church also on hand for the event. The Wy- Wyandot Mission Church. A brief 1821 by the Methodist Conference in 1960. andotte Nation is the only federally stop was made for a ceremony at the to start the Mission School at Upper During the ceremony held in Sep- recognized of the three Wyandotte old Indian Burial Grounds. Sandusky. Stewart taught a class tember, United Methodist Church bands. For many on the journey from at the Big Springs Reserve. Stewart Bishop Gregory Palmer, Pastor Betsy Bowen, the co-chair of the Oklahoma, the walk was a signifi- died later on Dec. 18, 1823 and his Brian Arnold, and tribal citizens church’s Records and History Com- cant moment in their lives. last words were, “Be Faithful.” Lloyd Divine and Van Zanten re- mittee, which has been the primary “Kim (Garcia) and I were talking Stewart forged a bond between the counted the history through the eyes caretaker of the Mission Church, about how we were walking in the Wyandotte people and Methodists of some of the key historical figures welcomed everyone. steps of our grandmothers, and our that continues today, and allowed of that time. “This is a good day to be a Wy- grandfathers, and our aunts and for the rare and historic land return andotte and a good day to be a uncles, and what it must have been to happen. Methodist. On this day, the land you like for them on that journey and As for the Wyandot Mission entrusted to the Methodists will be how fortunate we were to be here, to Church, it was built in 1824 in Up- ‘Today, We Celebrate’ returned to the Wyandotte Nation of be a part of this,” Van Zanten said of per Sandusky and was used by the Oklahoma,” she said. the walk and the ceremony. Wyandots until 1843. It was the first The ceremony on Saturday began Tribal citizen Kim Garcia de- The main ceremony began just mission in America of the Methodist at the John Stewart United Method- livered ‘The Lord’s Prayer’ in the outside the Mission Church as denomination, and the school was ist Church, where hundreds filed tribe’s native language and Wyan- Methodists, the Upper Sandusky reportedly one of the first vocational into the sanctuary and out into the dotte Nation Princess Sara Wright community, and Wyandottes were schools and the first co-educational foyer. In addition to the Wyandotte also presented ‘The Lord’s Prayer’ witnesses to history. school. The building was restored Nation, representatives of the Wyan- through sign language. in 1889 and designated a national dot Nation of Kansas and Wyandotte State Rep. Riordan McClain of See SHARED HISTORY, Page 6

(Above) Ohio State Rep. Riordan McClain presents Chief Friend with a declaration, (middle) the Wyandot Mission Church, (right) tribal citizens Joshua Garcia and Princess Sara Wright dance near the end of the ceremony on Saturday, Sept. 21. Page 6 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia November 2019 SHARED HISTORY Continued from Page 5

“We are here to commit ourselves to addressing the wrong and asking for the forgiveness of those who have been wronged by failing them so pro- foundly,” Bishop Tracy Malone told the large crowd. “We confess to God, acknowledging our guilt, resolving to cease the harm, pledging ourselves to live differently, reversing the damage that has been done through our participation in violence, mal- treatment, and neglect of Native and Indigenous peoples so that we may bring about healing and restoration to all.” Bishop Palmer followed by recog- nizing what was entrusted to them William Swaim/Wyandotte Nation by the Tribe. “We celebrate that here Tribal citizens visited the Indian Mill, Leatherlips Monument, a memorial to in what was once the great reserve, Chief Tarhe near his burial site, the Wyandot County Museum and the Wyan- you entrusted to us your sacred dot Mission Church during a hugely historic weekend for the Tribe. spaces, spaces we have long shared in practice of our faith and remem- brance of friends and family gone before us. Our lives were separated seum. Following the church service after your departure to Kansas, and on Sunday, tribal citizens made their then to Oklahoma. But this church, way to the historic Indian Mill site these grave sites, this land, and the and toured the area. They wrapped stories that are rooted in it, continue up the day with a trip to Leatherlips to connect us to you.” Monument in Dublin, Ohio, before General Secretary Kemper then making their way back to Wyandotte presented Chief Billy Friend with on Monday. the deed. The visit to the historic sites was “Chief Billy Friend, on behalf of another memory in a weekend full of the Methodist people and the Meth- them. odist Mission, I return to you and “For me personally, it was the the Wyandotte people and Nation, tory Committee. Sara Wright, as is customary for the chance to present Mother Margarett the land entrusted to us 176 years “I just want to say it is a miracle Tribe, presented gifts to those key Solomon during the ceremony, and ago,” he said. that the church is standing in the in making the historic day happen. share not only her story, but a story Friend accepted the return of the shape it is in today, and that is a Additionally, Wyandotte of Ander- of our people in that time so that land to the Wyandotte Nation. “First testament to this local community don Chief Ted Roll presented the those in attendance could hopefully thing I want to say as Indian people, and this group, and their dedication Wyandotte Nation and The United get a little bit of a sense of what as tribal people, everything we get, and commitment to preserving not Methodist Church with wampum we experienced in being removed we usually have to fight for, espe- only their history, but preserving belts to signify the day. and the challenges we faced. That cially when it comes to land. But this our history for us,” Chief Friend is important, because to know who was not the case.” said before presenting Bowen with a we are and where we are going, you Friend said the conversation check for $10,000. 'The Journey' have to know where we came from. began years ago with Pastor Arnold. “Betsy made the trip to Oklahoma And I think this weekend, it gave us Then last year, he met with key last year, wanted to know what their For the tribal citizens making the a chance to do that and we can carry leaders of the United Methodist role was going to be going forward. journey, the ceremony was just a por- it forward. It’s not just creating new Church and discussed the history of I told her, ‘Betsy this will always be tion of this historic trip as they not history, it’s adding onto the history the Tribe, and the significance and ‘our’ church, when I say ‘our,’ it is only had the opportunity to attend a of our ancestors and it is an honor importance of the Mission Church. our, it is the Wyandotte people and church service in the Mission Church, and a privilege.” “They said, ‘Chief we think it is the Methodist Church – it will be but also visited historic sites. To see photos from the weekend, time this land comes back to your ours together. Going forward, you On Friday, tribal citizens had a check out our Facebook page and the people.’ And that does not happen can be assured we are going to be a chance to visit the Mission Church photo albums at www.facebook.com/ very often. We will forever be grate- good partner and we are going to do -- for many it was the first time they WyandotteNation and ‘like’ us if you ful for that gesture,” Chief Friend our part, in helping with the upkeep had seen it. Following that, they haven’t already. Also, keep an eye said of the conversation. and maintenance that they have made their way to a monument dedi- out on our YouTube channel for an Chief Friend also recognized the done for so many years.” cated to Chief Tarhe near his burial upcoming video of this historic occa- hard work and effort made by the Chief Billy Friend, Second Chief site, and concluded the evening with sion – and make sure you ‘subscribe’ United Methodist Records and His- Norman Hildebrand and Princess a visit to the Wyandot County Mu- to see our latest videos. November 2019 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 7 Tribe breaks ground on new Admin building By William Swaim thing we do is serving the citizens of Wyandotte Nation our tribal nation.” Chief Friend thanked the Board of After constructing many walls and Directors on hand, Juanita McQuis- rearranging offices over the past 41 tion, Vivian Fink, Ramona Reid and years, the Wyandotte Nation will Second Chief Norman Hildebrand. have a new building to call home as He also thanked all of the employ- the Tribe broke ground Thursday, ees on the government side as well Sept. 26, on its new Administration as Wyandotte Tribe of Oklahoma Building. (WTOK), which is the federally- “It’s a great day, it’s a great day for chartered corporation of the Tribe us, it’s a great day for the Wyandotte and drives economic development. Nation, and I just want to say thank The project is completely financed you to everyone for coming out and using tribal funds and not federal supporting,” said Wyandotte Na- dollars. tion Chief Billy Friend to a crowd of “All the money we are using on onlookers. “It is something we have this is generated by our economic de- dreamed about for a long time, and velopment, so we are appreciative of now it is going to become a reality all the work that WTOK does – our for us -- we are looking forward to William Swaim/Wyandotte Nation casinos, the Turtle Stops, Wyandotte it.” (From Left) Wyandotte Nation Board of Directors Juanita McQuistion, Vivian Precision Products, Wyandotte While the Tribe will say goodbye Fink, Ramona Reid, Second Chief Norman Hildebrand, and Chief Billy Friend. Technologies and all of our projects to the old building, which was built we do on that side to help fund this and dedicated in 1978, it isn’t going Healthcare & Wellness Center, will looking forward to the future.” project,” Chief Friend said. “Not hav- anywhere. The old administration house the offices of the Administra- Chief Friend related a story to ing to use any federal dollars, it says building will be remodeled and tion, Family Services and Gaming having fewer than 10 employees in a lot about where we are as a tribal become the new Judicial Building, Commission. the early days of the administration nation.” housing the Wyandotte Nation “It was always our goal to eventu- building to having more than 100 There is no official timeline for the court system and Wyandotte Nation ally get up here on the hill and begin tribal government employees today. completion of the project, although Tribal Police Department (WNTPD). to fill out everything up here as we “The ultimate goal for us is to im- construction is set to begin in early Chief Friend said it will be a good have been doing,” Chief Friend said. prove the quality of life for our tribal November. move for them as well being just off “We have been growing, we’ve been citizens and everything that we do Crossland Construction is the the highway. able to do a lot of things. We are is geared toward that,” he said. “It general contractor for the project. The new Administration Building, very thankful today to be breaking allows us to provide better services, CGA Architects produced the build- located just south of the Bearskin ground on this new building and more efficient services, and every- ing concept. Wyandotte Nation raising awareness for domestic violence problem

By William Swaim Sexual Assault Advocate/Educator Wyandotte Nation Supervisor for the Wyandotte Na- tion, said 1-in-3 women are victims The Wyandotte Nation continued of domestic violence, and that 1-in-7 its ongoing support to protect vic- men are victims at some time during tims of domestic violence by signing their lifetime. She said those num- a proclamation in support of Domes- bers are not okay. tic Violence Awareness Month. Chief Arnold also thanked the Wyan- Billy Friend signed the proclamation dotte Nation for being so supportive. on behalf of the Tribe. She said in addition to the proc- Chief Friend thanked the Wyan- lamation, they also hold a healing dotte Nation domestic violence and circle each month, which is a support sexual assault victim advocates. group for those affected by domestic “They work tirelessly around the violence and sexual assault. clock many times, advocating for The Wyandotte Nation also hosted those in this area, being an advocate the annual Scarecrow 5K and 1-Mile for those who have been victims of Fun Walk Saturday, Oct. 5, at the domestic violence,” Chief Friend Bearskin Healthcare & Wellness said. “We appreciate them and we Center. Donations were accepted at William Swaim/Wyandotte Nation appreciate the work that they do.” the event for the Community Crisis Racers take off at the start of the Scarecrow Run. The event was part of the Lisa Arnold, Domestic Violence & Center of Miami in lieu of a race fee. Wyandotte Nation's effort to raise awareness about domestic violence. Page 8 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia November 2019 'Gathering' ties in Mission Church history By Marilyn Young Cultural Advisory Board Mission: Wyandot accomplished, in many ways. You did it again citizens. This year’s Gathering broke the records again. Over the three days, we averaged 150 in attendance. Citizens traveled from all over the country, including California, Michigan, Ohio, Arizona, Texas, Florida, North Carolina and Washington -- to name a few states represented. We even had visitors from Africa stop by. With the Mission Church deeded back to the Wyandotte Nation by the Methodist Church, emphasis was placed on the Mission Church in Ohio. Every day Lloyd Divine gave us more insight to the Method- ists -- John Stewart, James Finley, Charles Elliot and their roles in bringing Methodism to the Wyan- dots, building a congregation and eventually the Mission. He also spoke about three Wyandot Chiefs -- Between the Logs, Mononcue, Summundowat -- who converted as well as Big Tree, an honored and cel- ebrated warrior who converted first. This history and knowledge gave not only those attending but also those who would make the journey to Ohio to witness the transfer of the Mission back to the Wyandottes, a William Swaim/Wyandotte Nation better understanding of how impor- (Above) Tribal citizens 'gather' for a photo during the annual Gathering. (Below left) Janie Cole talks about the differ- tant the Mission was to our history ent styles for ribbon shirts during the Traditional Dress session. (Below middle) Flowers were placed at the graves and timeline. following the Walk of Rememberance. (Below right) Tribal citizens had the opportunity to get close to eagles. This year several options were given for citizens during breakout Raised Beading was the selected have access to white glass beads. floral design. sessions, which included crafts, his- beading craft. It was said the native They began to use these beads on Another highly sought-after class tory, language and traditional dress. women loved the look of the lace that dark backgrounds to replicate the was how to make Moccasins. David Kim Garcia and several assistants the English women were wearing. look of lace. This was the begin- Keffer and several assistants taught taught the Beading class, which is Even though they were not able to ning of raised beadwork. The class requested every year. This year access the lace themselves, they did focused on the twisted rope and a See GATHERING, Page 9 November 2019 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 9 GATHERING Continued from Page 8 the basics of making moccasins. Attendees of the class were able to make their own patterns and using felt to practice sewing a moccasin. With additional practice especially of the baseball stitch, we should see some actual moccasins next year. We hope those who attended both classes will post pictures of their completed projects on the Wyandotte Citizens page over the coming months. In the Traditional Dress session, Janie Cole gave tips on how to make a ribbon shirt, which pattern to use as well as types of material. I showed the different women, teen and little girl style dresses that are appropriate for Wyandotte Nation providing various guidelines for making the dress. This year History William Swaim/Wyandotte Nation and Language sessions were both (Clockwise from top an open forum format, giving those left) The Walk of Re- attending a chance to come and memberance started ask questions, which set the con- at the Bearskin versation rather than having a set Fitness Center Gym agenda. This allowed the citizens at- and ended up at the tending to set the topic of discussion. Wyandotte Indian Cemetery. Tribal SIA, The Comanche Nation Ethno- citizen artisan show- Ornithological Initiative from Cyril, case entires. Up close Okla., returned for a second presen- photography of the tation for the Wyandotte Nation. eagle presentation. Their mission: Preservation through Kim Garcia teaches a cultural understand of the Eagle in beading class during History, Science and Spirit. This the annual Gather- presentation brought lots of reaction ing. The three-day from the crowd. Can you envision a Gathering again had large full-grown adult Eagle sitting record attendance. on your head or shoulder? Many may have seen an Eagle or birds of their facility, but you will need to the maintenance staff for setting up up, helping serve, teaching a class, prey at a local zoo or other festival, call and schedule the tour. all the tables and chairs, to Bearskin assist with teaching, to name a few. but I would almost guarantee most The Gathering ended on Friday Fitness, and to our Chiefs Billy We are not only needing instructors of you have never been able to see with the annual Memorial Walk Friend and Norman Hildebrand but also assistants to help the in- an eagle of this size closer than 5 or from the Bearskin Gym to the and our Board of Directors for your structors. Prior to the events special 6 feet. Well many got this chance Wyandotte Cemetery where every- continued support of this event. A volunteer classes will be held where and many photo opportunities were one was given the opportunity to lay big THANK YOU to everyone who volunteers will be given additional taken during the presentation. flowers at the graves of their choice. donated items for the giveaways instructions and/or taught the craft Bill Voelker who is the President This is a special time for Wyandottes during the Gathering. You all out- they will be assisting. of SIA and has more than 40 years to walk in unity and to remember did yourself and went over the top We also want to hear from citizens of experience was the main speaker/ those who have walked on. The with your beautiful items. Many at- regarding suggestions for history, presenter and spoke about SIA’s walk ended at Chief Bearskin’s tendees, including many youth, took language and crafts. We want to mission, research, the first Native grave where Chief Billy Friend home some really nice gifts. Another know what you liked or did not like American feather repository and spoke about Chief Bearskin and led big THANK YOU to everyone who at either event in 2019 as well as hatching of the first Bald Eagle via us in a closing prayer. came as you are helping to preserve changes or suggestions for 2020. artificial insemination. Listening to Of course we can’t talk about the the past for the future. Please contact Courtney Cummings him and what SIA does was amaz- Gathering without giving special The Culture Advisory Board is at 918-678-6318, via email ccum- ing and hard to tell about in one thanks to all those who volunteered already starting plans for the 2020 [email protected]. You short paragraph. If you did not get their time, to Family Services for Gathering of Little Turtles and The can also send by general mail c/o an opportunity to see the presenta- providing a meal, to River Bend Gathering. With both events grow- Wyandotte Nation Cultural Center tion or want to learn more about SIA Casino and Hotel for lunch and ing in numbers we are looking for 5 Council Fire Road Wyandotte, OK visit their website at comancheeagle. breakfast, to Title VI for cooking and volunteers to help with both events 74370. To remain anonymous use org. They also offer free tours of providing the traditional dinner, to from those who can help with set general mail. Page 10 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia November 2019

Photos by 30th Annual Pow-Wow William Swaim

The annual Wyandotte Nation Pow-Wow celebrated its 30th year Sept. 13-15. The Head Singer for this year's event was Da- mian Blackfox and the Northern Drum were the Redland Singers. The Head Man Dancer was Neil Lawhead, the Head Lady Dancer Geneva Hamilton, the Head Gourd Dancer Kenny Brown, the Head Judge Jay Blalock, Arena Director Murray Rhoads Jr. and Master of Ceremonies Steve Kinder.

To see more photos from the 30th Annual Wyandotte Nation Pow-Wow, visit our Facebook page and ‘Like’ us. www.facebook.com/WyandotteNation November 2019 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 11 Page 12 www.wyandotte-nation.org November 2019 Tribe Chili Feed raises money to receives DOJ grant support ‘Shop With a Cop'

The Department of Justice National Night Out announced it has awarded over $273.4 million in another success grants to improve public By William Swaim safety, serve victims of Wyandotte Nation crime, combat violence The Wyandotte Nation Tribal against women and sup- Police Department (WNTPD) held port youth programs in its first Chili Feed Saturday, Oct. American Indian and Alaska 12, for the community. Officers served up chili, cake, refreshments, Native communities. and held an auction with plenty In Oklahoma, 15 tribes of great prizes. The best part and nations received in -- ALL proceeds went to support the WNTPD’s annual Shop With total $14,142,025, includ- A Cop program held each Decem- ing the Wyandotte Nation, ber where officers pick up area which received $132, 648 youth, treat them to lunch and a gift shopping for families under for public safety and com- hardship. munity policing from the Various Wyandotte Nation de- William Swaim/Wyandotte Nation COPS office. partments donated prizes as well (Above and below right) Wyandotte Nation Tribal Police Department Chief of as Crossland Construction and Police Glenn Johnston and volunteers served up bowls of beef and deer chili “Violent crime and domestic during the Chili Feed. (Below left) Officer Ken Brodrick passed out stickers River Bend Casino & Hotel. and talked to youth at the annual National Night Out. abuse in American Indian and The event raised nearly $1,900 Alaska Native communities for the Shop With a Cop program. remain at unacceptably high Back on Aug. 6, the WNTPD refreshments, prizes, and school neighborhood camaraderie, and to hosted its annual ‘National Night backpacks and supplies were handed send a message to criminals letting levels, and they demand a Out’ Community Block Party at out to students. them know that neighborhoods are response that is both clear the Bearskin Fitness Center Gym. National Night Out is celebrated organized and fighting back. That and comprehensive,” said It was a chance for the com- each year. The introduction of first year, 2.5 million Americans munity to come together and National Night Out, “America’s took part across 400 communities in Attorney General William visit with neighbors and local Night Out Against Crime,” began in 23 states. P. Barr. “We will continue to law enforcement officers to form 1984 as an effort to promote involve- Annually, communities across work closely with our tribal stronger partnerships. The evening ment in crime prevention activities, the United States join forces and events featured fun activities, food, police-community partnerships, celebrate National Night Out. partners to guarantee they have the resources they need to curb violence and bring healing to the victims most profoundly affected by it.” Four tribes in the Northern District of Oklahoma were awarded more than $3.1 million in funding, including the Quapaw Tribe of Okla- homa, the Cherokee Nation, the Delaware Tribe of Indians and the Wyandotte Nation. November 2019 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 13 Tribal Citizen & Community News

Hamilton honored at Annual Meeting Tribal citizen Larry Hamilton was named as the ‘Honored Person for 2019.’ Hamilton is a part of the Wyandotte Nation Honor Guard and is also an employee of the Main- tenance Department. Tribal citizens filled the Bearskin Healthcare & Wellness Center to hear the 'State of the Nation' at the Annual Meeting held Saturday, Sept. 14.

(Photos by William Swaim)

Higginbotham great example of • Understanding their child's special needs • Obtain the help they desire to deal with situations that could inter- First Steps program success fere with their child's growth and development. • Provide the best conditions for their child's growth and development. Wyandotte Nation Title • Involve professionals such as occupational therapists, physical thera- VI Employee Seth Higginbo- pists, speech-language pathologist, special instructors and audiologists. tham has benefitted greatly from the First Steps program, from being involved in the original pilot program, to where he is now – celebrat- ing 10 years of employment recently at the Wyandotte Nation. First Steps is Missouri's early intervention system for infants and toddlers, birth to age 3, who have delayed development or diagnosed conditions that are associated with developmental disabilities. First Steps works with families by ensuring that coordinated services are provided as conveniently as possible. The original First Steps Pilot Program was started when Higginbotham was around 2 years old and it did not become a fully funded and recognized program until 1993. The program benefitted Higginbotham by allow- ing his parents to find professionals that could help in his development. They introduced such programs as Missouri Impact, which allowed them to understand his rights to receive services under the law and how to be their child's advocate for his needs and his future. Because of First Steps, Higginbotham was given the necessary help with his development that put him on the path to become the fine young man he is today, who contributes Service Awards to his community, work, church, and has been an encouragement to other parents with children with a developmental disability by showing them Wyandotte Nation Chief Billy Friend and Second Chief Norman Hil- that early intervention is the key to letting their grow into the person they debrand honored employees Friday afternoon for their years of service to were meant to be. the Tribe. From left: Second Chief Hildebrand, Becky Johnson – 5 years, , The First Steps is voluntary and is intended to help families of children Kortney Nesvold – 5 years, Cristi Hudson – 10 years, Seth Higginbotham – with disabilities: 10 years, and Chief Friend. Not present: Valari Richards – 10 years.

Submit Your News: Submit a story idea or your latest news and photos. Email William Swaim at [email protected]. Page 14 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia November 2019 Tribal Department Reports

Human Resources currently attending Crowder College. Submitted by Deana Howard, HR She has been a lifeguard for two years. Director In her spare time, she enjoys spend- ing time with her family, friends and The Wyandotte Nation Family dogs. She likes singing, dancing, and Service Department is very happy to painting. We are very fortunate to have welcome Cesilie Hale. Cesilie will serve Bailee on our team and wish her much as our Domestic Violence & Sexual success in this position. Assault Advocate. Cesilie transferred Brittany will serve as a Fitness Child- to us from the River Bend Casino. care Provider. Brittany worked for us Cesilie grew up in Grove and is the prior as a Front Desk oldest of five children. She received her Assistant. Brittany Bachelor’s Degree of has her Associate Science from MSSU Degree in Science. in Business Admin- In her spare time, istration. She enjoys she enjoys making spending most of T-shirts and going to her time having fun craft shows. Brittany with her daughters, loves spending time or just relaxing with with her husband family and friends. and daughter. We In her free time, you WOOD are very fortunate to Youth in summer program HALE can find her cheering have Brittany on our on her kiddos at one team and wish her find new positions with Tribe of their sporting events and exploring much success in this the outdoors doing things such as, kaya- position. The Wyandotte Nation is very Substitute with Title VI – Wylie happy to transfer the tribal citizens Hudson, Facilities Tech. – Tristen king, running, or hiking. In the fall, Devon will serve listed from our Summer Youth Cox, Substitute with Facilities – you can count on her spending Sundays as the Fitness Center Program to other positons: Felicity Bruegel, Fitness Childcare cheering on the Kansas City Chiefs. We Youth Program As- Keya Corsbie, After School Asst. Provider – Devon Rutledge, Youth are very fortunate to have Cesilie on sistant. Devon’s hob- – Dalton Duley, After School Asst. Program Asst. We are very fortu- our team and wish her much success in bies include drawing – Kyah Enyart, After School Asst. nate to have them on our team and her new position. and reading. Devon – Sydney Nesvold, Substitute with wish them much success in these The Wyandotte Nation Police Depart- RUTLEDGE enjoys spending Family Services – Elizabeth Tanner, positions. ment is proud to welcome Michael time with family and Osburn. Michael has 3 years of experi- traveling. We are very fortunate to have ence in Law Enforce- Devon on our team and wish him much ment and is CLEET success in this position. tion Department. Her hobbies include Family Services Certified. Michael The Bearskin Health and Wellness photography, reading, watching movies/ enjoys working on Center would like to welcome Rebecca tv. Sarah likes spending time with her Submitted by Dana Butterfield, cars, helping his Wright as Clinic Assistant and Sarah friends and family, has 3 dogs, likes to Family Services Director wife at their store, Threlkeld as a part-time Childcare drive around and doing yard work, Provider. explore, and enjoys The big news right now in the and keeping up with Rebecca is an internal transfer for playing with her Family Services Department is that rental properties. Wyandotte Nation and is an LPN and nephew. We are we have moved! Our offices are now In his spare time he currently pursuing happy to have Sarah located at 64615 W 145 Rd in Wyan- her Bachelor’s in dotte. This is a temporary location OSBURN spends time with his join our team. kids and wife, swim- Nursing. She has Kelsey Stewart has for us until the new Administration ming or playing, watching cartoons. worked in clinics, rejoined the Educa- building is complete in late 2020. We We are very fortunate to have Michael hospitals, and LTC tion Department as look forward to providing services to and wish him much success in his new facilities and comes a Substitute. Kelsey our citizens at this location. PLEASE position. to us with 7 years’ THRELKELD has experience work- NOTE: This move does not change our The Bearskin Fitness Center is happy experience. In her ing in the classroom mailing address or our phone numbers. to welcome Bailee spare time she enjoys and she loves to work Once again, we had an amazing Sherwood and tribal camping, riding hors- with children. Kelsey Gathering, Annual Meeting and Pow- citizens Brittany WRIGHT es, reading, writing, enjoys spending Wow! The Gathering had a record Wood and Devon sketching, dancing time with her family number registered and the Annual Rutledge. and Pow-Wows. She also enjoys spend- and her church. Her Meeting had the largest number of Bailee will serve ing time with her husband and children hobbies are reading, adult tribal citizens ever to register. as a Front Desk and attending her kid’s ball games and shopping, and fishing. While the Pow-Wow saw extreme heat, Assistant Substi- activities. We are very fortunate to have We are pleased to it was still a wonderful weekend with tute. Bailee gradu- Rebecca on our team and wish her much have Kelsey back and good crowds and dancers from across ated from Seneca success in her new position. wish her much suc- SHERWOOD High School and is Sarah transferred from the Educa- STEWART cess in her position. Continued on Page 15 November 2019 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 15 Tribal Department Reports

Continued from Page 14 low the Wyandotte Nation Facebook Walmart gift card for $100 per student. received, services will be available the country! We are so proud of our page to stay up-to-date on events and Applications, along with guidelines, beginning Dec. 1 for tribal citizens very own Tara Gragg and her family program announcements that will will be available on the home page residing in Oklahoma. This program for singing the National Anthem dur- be posted in between issues of the of the Tribe’s website. There are is income based and proof of income ing the Veteran’s ceremony on Satur- newsletters. separate applications for the gift card is required, along with other required day night of the Pow-Wow. They did and reimbursement program. If you documentation. an amazing job. Upcoming Winter Programs: did not return your receipts for either APPLICATIONS FOR THE ABOVE Tribal citizen Larry Hamilton was Children’s Christmas Party – The the School Supplies or last year’s PROGRAMS MUST BE RECEIVED named as the ‘Honored Person for party will be held Saturday, Dec. 14 Winter Clothing gift cards, you will OR POST MARKED BY FEB. 28 2019.’ Larry does a great job repre- from 10 am to Noon at the Bearskin be required to use the reimbursement TO BE ELIGIBLE AND BILLS/ senting the Tribe on the Honor Guard Healthcare and Wellness Center gym. program this year. Incomplete applica- RECEIPTS MUST BE DATED BE- and as an employee of the Maintenance Doors open at 9:45, depending on tions will be returned to the sender. TWEEN OCT. 1, 2019 AND FEB. 28, Department. Thank you Larry for the weather. You will need to enter Senior Energy (Winter) – Available 2020, NO EXCEPTIONS. your contributions to the Tribe and the through the gym doors. Each Wyan- nationwide. $100 will be paid directly assistance you provide to the Family dotte child ages birth to 12 will receive to the utility provider for citizens who The Following programs run Services Department. a gift from Santa. Tribal parents are 55 and older. Program dates are throughout the year for residents Family Services staff members present with their eligible children will Oct. 1 through Feb. 28. Citizens are in OK, MO, AR, KS. Applications Leeanna Radabaugh and Tara Gragg receive a $25 Walmart gift card (1 per encouraged to continue to pay their must be received or post marked were able to attend the historic trip to household). As always, Grandparents, bills as normal and a $100 credit will by Sept. 30: Upper Sandusky, Ohio for the Mission aunts, uncles, siblings, etc. are all display on their statement when the Church ceremony. Both expressed welcome to attend and share in the joy payment has been processed. extreme gratefulness to the Tribe of Christmas! LIHEAP – LIHEAP is a federal for allowing them the opportunity to Winter Clothing – Starts Nov. grant funded program, if funding is Continued on Page 16 witness this event. Details, along with 1 and ends Feb. 28 for pre-K (must photos, about the event can be found in be enrolled in a structured learning an article in the newsletter. program and be at least 3 years old) We would like to welcome Cesilie through grade 12. OK, MO, AR, KS Wyandotte Nation Hale to the Department. Cesilie is the residents. Reimbursement program or new Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault Family Services Programs Advocate through a grant from the Of- fice of Victims of Crime. She has been Dates to Remember a great asset to the Department and TAG REMINDERS: has hit the ground running providing Elder’s Assistance: Oct. 1 – Sept. 30 much needed services to victims! • Must be an enrolled citizen of the The Family Services Department has Senior Energy: Winter: Oct. 1 – Feb. 28 Wyandotte Nation, an Oklahoma Senior Energy: Summer: July 1 – Sept. 30 many programs and services to offer resident AND the car must be prin- tribal citizens. cipally garaged in Oklahoma Indian LIHEAP: (if available) Winter: Dec. 1 – Feb. 28 If you have any questions or country. LIHEAP: (if available) Summer: July 1 – Sept. 30 concerns please feel free to contact: • Oklahoma Insurance Verification School Supplies: July 1 – Sept. 30 Dana Butterfield, Director, 918-678- must accompany renewals (except Children’s Winter Clothing: Nov. 1 – Feb. 28 6319; Tara Gragg, ICW Supervisor, for RV’s and Travel Trailers). 918-678-6355; Leeanna Radabaugh, • If you are purchasing a new/used Extracurricular Activities: Oct. 1 – Sept. 30 Family Services Assistant, 918-678- vehicle, the Tribal citizen’s name Jr./Sr. High School Assist.: Oct. 1 – Sept. 30 6329; Tiffany Garner, ICW Social MUST be on the Title at the time of Children’s Christmas Party: Dec. 14 Worker, 918-678-6353; Lisa Arnold, assignment. Wyandotte Nation Tax Wyandotte Nation Annual Meeting: Sept. 12 Domestic Violence Advocate/Educator, Commission staff CAN NOT add or 918-678-6324; and Cesilie Hale, DV/SA delete names. (Second Saturday of September each year) Advocate, 918-678-3269. For questions, please call (918) 678- Note: All applications must be in our office or post marked on or before Visit the Wyandotte Nation website 6329 or (918) 678-6319 the last day of the program. www.wyandotte-nation.org and fol-

Start your journey today | You don’t have to be perfect to be a foster parent!

Every year thousands of children are placed in foster care. When a child who is a member or is eligible for membership in the Wy- andotte Nation is placed into foster, the ideal situation is for that child to be either with family or in another Wyandotte tribal home. Children need a safe, loving place to stay. That is all you need to start the process of becoming a foster parent. It doesn’t matter where you live, please contact the Family Services Department to start your journey today. Page 16 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia November 2019 Tribal Department Reports

Continued from Page 15 (Benny Card) – The provider for this Elders Assistance – One-time November is National program, currently CoreSource, will expense for $250 for tribal elders aged be changing their name to Trustmark. 55 and over. Members should be receiving informa- Extra-Expense/Extracurricular Adoption Month! tion regarding this change. Activities – One-time payment of $100 This program has been renewed per student aged pre – K (at least 3 and accounts will be re-loaded Jan. 1, years of age) through 12th grade. The Administration for Children and Families are promot- 2020. The benefits will be the same as Jr/Sr Benefit - $250 benefit for ex- ing adoption of older youth. A recent article from the ACF previous years with a $1,000 per year penses associated with the Junior and newsletter reports: Older children in foster care, particularly benefit for adult (18 and over) tribal Senior years of High School. Benefit citizens. Tribal citizens who have can be used for both Jr and Sr year. teenagers, have a hard time being adopted from foster care. enrolled Wyandotte Nation dependents Fuel Assistance – Programs Of the estimated 428,000 youth in the U.S. foster care system, will receive an additional $1,000 for a include: Hardship – personal hard- 112,000 youth are currently waiting for adoptive families. Youth maximum of $2,000 per account. Indi- ships, travel for work/job interviews, viduals who were voted into citizenship etc.; Medical – travel to/from doctor/ between the ages of 15 to 18 years old currently represent 43 at the Annual Meeting will receive dental appointments and pick up percent of all children actively photo listed on AdoptUSKids. their account information in December prescriptions; Major Medical – extreme org, and only 5 percent of all children adopted in 2015 were and accounts will be active Jan. 1, medical issues (must be life threaten- 2020. Quarterly statements are mailed ing, terminal, etc. not chronic medical between the ages of 15 to 18 years old. by Trustmark (SEE BOTTOM OF issues) that require multiple trips “All of us – and that includes teens in foster care who are PAGE) to show remaining balances, outside of the local area. Program pro- waiting to be adopted – need and want families to support us and account balances can be obtained vides fuel vouchers through the Turtle by calling 800-990-9058 ext 42086. Stop convenience store for local tribal and to give us the connections, relationships, and sense of be- Burial Assistance - $1,500 to be citizens or tribal citizens who travel to longing that are so critical to our well-being. The parents and paid to the funeral home or to the the Bearskin Healthcare and Wellness families who adopt older teens from foster care enrich their family representative if the funeral Center. is paid in full. Applications must be own lives while providing an incredible impact on the lives of submitted within 90 days of the tribal Other Programs provided by the the adopted children and teens at a time when it is needed citizen’s death. Family Services Department: most.” — Jerry Milner, Associate Commissioner at the Children’s Child Safety Seats - Each child is Family Violence Prevention eligible for three seats in different sizes Bureau, and the Acting Commissioner for the Administration Program: This program is funded and can be picked up at the tribal of- on Children, Youth and Families through grants from the Office of Vio- fice. Staff try to keep all sizes on hand, Please contact the Family Services Department to find out lence Against Women (OVW), Family but if you are traveling from a distance Violence Prevention Safety Act/Admin- please call in advanced to ensure the how you can help. istration for Children and Families correct seat is available. and Office of Victims of Crime. Funds Promoting Safe & Stable Fami- can be used to provide advocacy to lies/Indian Child Welfare – Funded individuals who are victims of domestic through a federal grant from the Ad- violence, sexual assault, dating vio- ministration for Children and Families, numbers listed above. Walmart gift card and a blanket with lence, human trafficking and stalking. it is designed to help keep children in Enrollment – Aug. 15 is the dead- the Tribal Turtle. Services for victims include shelter, their homes with the family or ensure line to be considered for enrollment at Tribal Tags – Available for tribal utilities, food, clothing, transportation, that if there is a need for removal that the 2020 Annual Meeting. Applica- citizens who reside in Oklahoma. Pas- court accompaniment, counseling, legal federal guidelines are adhered to and tions must be submitted along with an senger, RV, Motorcycle and Handicap assistance, etc., and can be provided the best interest of the child is first and original state certified birth certificate. tags are available. Please call the to any victim who resides within a 25- foremost. If your family is in a situa- Applications can be submitted at any office for prices and additional informa- mile radius of the Wyandotte Nation. tion where the state is involved, please during the year and birth certificates tion. All new requests must be accom- Victims do not have to be Wyandotte or contact either of the ICW Social Work- will be returned within 10-14 business panied by the original title and proof of Native to reserve services. ers. The Tribe is continually seeking days. insurance. Renewals require a proof of Look for upcoming awareness cam- foster families. If you’re interested in New Enrollee Benefit - If a child’s insurance. Incomplete requests will be paigns, events and cultural activities sharing your home with a child in need, application is received prior to their returned to the tribal citizen. to educate the community regarding please contact Tara or Tiffany at the first birthday, they will receive a $100 Supplemental Health Benefit these issues.

Our benefits administrator, Core- • New ID Card Source, is changing their brand name to • Explanation of Benefits (EOB) Trustmark Health Benefits. This name • Letters and Communications change does not affect your benefits. • Your Web Portal Between now and Jan. 1, 2020, you’ll • Mobile App start seeing the name Trustmark Health • Customer Service Benefits in places like: November 2019 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 17 Tribal Department Reports

Education Tribal Police Department Tribal Heritage Submitted by Cristi Hudson, Edu- Submitted by Glenn Johnston, Chief of Police Submitted by Sherri Clemons, cation Director Tribal Heritage Director The 2019 ‘Shop With A Cop’ program Kweh, New and exciting changes are will be going forward soon. Local children Fall has finally come to Wyandotte! happening in the Education Depart- will have the opportunity to make this September was so full of events that ment. We recently received a new Christmas just a little bit brighter. In the now seems so slow. 30 passenger bus for the Preschool, past year, we have received numerous do- The Gathering was amazing with our Afterschool, and Summer Programs. nations from businesses local and abroad. Wyandotte people. I always enjoy seeing The bus is used for many field trips The ‘Shop With A Cop’ program is sched- families visiting, and meeting first time throughout the year and to transport uled for Dec. 8. With the resources already members who have made their way the afterschool children from the school in place, it looks as though this year will home to Wyandotte! to the Afterschool Program. be even bigger and better that the previous The Cultural Committee out did The Wyandotte Nation Preschool will year. The chili feed, which was held Oct. themselves this year. With tying be under construction soon! We have 12, along with the auction that coincided with the feed, raised approximately the Gathering into the Mission trip, decided on a new playground design $1,600. Thanks to Wyandotte tribal citizens and employees. We could not have everyone was able to learn some history for the back playground and the front done it without you! before arrival in Ohio. The committee playground will be receiving a small More information will be coming your way as the event grows near. If you works for a full year to find important makeover as well. We are also in the want to see the biggest smiles and happiest children in the area, get your and true history for members coming to process of updating the Education name on the volunteer list for this upcoming ‘Shop With A Cop.’ You will not the Gathering. They also work to make Department offices, and the Preschool be disappointed! sure crafts offered are appropriate to and Toddler Program areas of the build- Again, thank you Wyandotte Nation and others who have been so gracious wear or use in public. Great job people! ing. We are in the process of adding an in donating both their time to a worthwhile project. Friday of Pow-Wow started out infant and one-year old program, with raining, but Chief Billy Friend com- hopes of it beginning in January. manded the rain to stop at 10:30 and The Child Care and Development it did. I think he had a little help from Fund Program is currently in the If you are interested in checking out Newton and McDonald Counties in the weatherman but we did not mind. process of recertifying applications a book, movie, or using the computer Southwest Missouri. Pow-Wow was wonderful. It was hotter for families that are currently on our lab, the library hours are Monday and this year than in the past years and we childcare assistance program. If you Wednesday 8 am to 4:30 pm. Tuesday WIOA eligibility requirements had a few guest suffer from heat exhaus- are in need of childcare assistance and and Thursday 8 am to 5:45 pm, and include: tion but none of the dancers. The water have not applied, we would be happy to Friday 8 am to 3:30 pm. • You must be Native America, boys kept plenty of water and Gatorade assist in getting an application to you. Wyandotte Nation Scholarship Alaska Native, or Native Hawaiian passed out. I would like to thank every- Parents must be working or attending Program and WIOA are currently • Possess a C.D.I.B. card one involved in putting the Pow-Wow school to apply. To be eligible for the processing the fall semester scholar- • Member of a federally recognized on and helping it run so smooth. All of Wyandotte Nation CCDF program, a ships. If you have not received your tribe the Pow-Wow Committee, Head Staff, household member must obtain a CDIB scholarship for this semester, here are a • Must be a resident of the service Maintenance, Police, Volunteers and our or tribal card. To request and applica- few Wyandotte Nation Undergraduate area listed above Board of Directors, they are amazing tion, or if you have any questions, you Scholarship reminders: To obtain any of the scholarships that in their support. With all of you help- can email Sami Butterfield, our Child • Undergraduate scholarships are Wyandotte Nation offers, email your re- ing, Wyandotte Nation Pow-Wow has Care Coordinator, at sbutterfield@ limited to eight semesters. quest or any questions you may have to become one of the best on the Pow-Wow wyandotte-nation.org; or you can call • Students will be placed on proba- Evan Hotulke, our Education Specialist Trail. Thank you all. We would also like her office at 918-678-6330. tion for failure to complete 12 hours or at [email protected]; or to mention our guest from Wendeke The Wyandotte Nation Library will more with a minimum of a 2.0 GPA. you can request one by calling his office Canada, Linda Sioui. Linda has made also see some changes happening soon. • Students will be allowed one at 918-678-6331. several trips from Canada to Wyandotte, With our growing Education Program, probationary semester during the We are available to assist you with Okla. I’m always glad to have brothers we are running out of room in our programs duration. the application process in any of our and sisters from Canada visit. library to house the many books and • Deadline for spring submission is programs and we look forward to work- We are planning some classes for this movies that the library currently checks Feb. 15. ing with you soon. fall and winter at the Cultural Center, out to the patrons. The library will • Deadline for fall submission is so watch Facebook for more. be adding more space by opening up a May 1. Education Department Contacts: doorway into the room that is currently If you have sent in the required Cristi Hudson – Education Director, our Afterschool Program Room. The paperwork and have not received the (918) 678-6334 or chudson@wyandotte- Health Afterschool Program will be moving scholarship, please call the office to make nation.org to the back of the building where the sure the paperwork has been received by Sami Butterfield – Childcare Co- --Submitted by Kelly Friend, Preschool Program is located. By open- Evan, his office number is 918-678-6331. ordinator – CCDF, (918) 678-6330 or Director of Health Services ing this room for the library, Deb our The Wyandotte Nation Education [email protected] librarian, will be able to continue read- Department also oversees the WIOA Lindsay Cooper – Early Childhood Effective Oct. 1, 2019, a minimum of ing stories, including special birthday program. These funds are available to Coordination, (918) 678-3267 or lcoo- three business days’ notice is required stories and pictures on the birthday assist members of federally recognized [email protected] on dental, optometry and audiology ap- wall, and there will be plenty of room tribes residing in Crawford and Chero- Evan Hotulke – Education Specialist, pointments regarding referrals to ensure to add more books and movies in the kee Counties in Southeast Kansas or (918) 678-6331 or ehotulke@wyandotte- that proper protocol can be followed in different genres the library has to offer. Barry, Barton, Dade, Jasper, Lawrence, nation.org sending documentation to providers. Page 18 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia November 2019 Tribal Department Reports Important Housing Submitted by Kathy DeWeese, Housing Director two-bedroom family duplexes. The Department of Health & Human Numbers plan is to build another family duplex Services, to ensure safe drinking Nahasda (Native American within the next year. Infrastructure water and proper sanitation facili- Police Department Housing and Self-Determination is in progress at the Wyandotte Ridge ties for our tribal families. These Glenn Johnston (918) 678-6365 Act) is the program governed by the housing site where homeowner units services include drilling wells, [email protected] Department of Housing and Urban will be built in the future. The hous- installing septic systems, rural Development (HUD). Each year a ing Department now manages 108 water hook-ups, and connections to Family Services / Enrollment / Tags Housing Plan must be summited homes. city water and sewer. There are no Dana Butterfield (918) 678-6319 and approved by HUD. This plan The Heritage Acres Community income guidelines. Tribal mem- [email protected] provides for the upkeep of Nahasda Center is available for rent. The bers must reside in the following Leeanna Radabaugh, 918-678-6329, lradabaugh@ units, rental assistance to college cost is $50 for tribal members and counties: Craig, Creek, Delaware, wyandotte-nation.org students and down payment as- $75 for non-tribal. There is also a Mayes, Nowata, Okfuskee, Ok- Family Violence Program sistance, as well as the day-to-day $25 deposit, which is returned if the mulgee, Ottawa, Rogers, Tulsa, Lisa Arnold, 918-678-6324, lisaarnold@ activities of the Department. building is left clean. Several dates Wagoner, and Washington. wyandotte-nation.org; Cesilie Hale, 918-678-3269, Down payment assistance will are already filled for next year. If you [email protected] be available again this year. This are interested in renting, it is best to Housing Department Staff: Tribal Social Workers assistance has provided homes for reserve early. Kathy DeWeese-Housing Director Tara Gragg (918) 678-6355 14 Tribal families. The participant If you have visited the Heritage Valari Richards-Housing Spe- [email protected] must meet income guidelines and Acres Park, you have noticed the cialist Tiffany Garner (918) 678-6353 be eligible for a conventional loan, new items installed. There is a bear, Don Graham-Residential Mainte- [email protected] and be within a 50-mile radius of the wolf, turtle and canoe. The park and nance Technician Tribal complex. Splashpad were busy all summer. Drew Lankford-Housing Facili- Human Resources There are currently 18 senior ties Technician Deana Howard (918) 678-6320 duplexes. This provides homes for IHS -121 Program Levi Griffin-Project Coordinator [email protected] 36 senior families. There are three This program is funded through the Paul Parker- Project Coordinator Nutrition & Caregiver Services Brenda House (918) 678-6327 [email protected] Education / Library / Child Care Veterans Honored Cristi Hudson (918) 678-6334 Elder Services [email protected] Submitted by Brenda House, Elder Historical Services Director Sherri Clemons (918) 678-6344 [email protected] Recently we collaborated with Good Environmental / Planning / Development Christen Lee (918) 678-6341 Shepherd Hospice and held a Veterans [email protected] Café. We honored 20 veterans from Housing WWII, Korean, Vietnam, Desert Storm Kathy DeWeese (918) 678-6339 and Iraq wars. Chief Billy Friend gave [email protected] the welcome. After a nice lunch, each honored with a flag pin and a certifi- Charles Lofland Dean Coons cate with their name and branch. The Bearskin Healthcare & ceremony ended with a bugler playing Wellness Center TAPS. Kelly Friend (918) 678-3259 We had to relocate our Picnic at the [email protected] Park to the Bearskin Health and Well- Clinic Appointments ness Gym due to inclement weather, Dee Dee Clapp (918) 678-3228 but we still had a wonderful time. Duke [email protected] Mason entertained everyone with his Dental / Vision amazing Elvis voice. We had drawings Jade Robertson, 918-678-3221, for door prizes and surprised the 362 [email protected] Chris Mathews Faron Lee participants with the ice cream truck Pharmacy (call-in only) (918) 678-3244 following lunch. Fitness Center We will be sponsoring a Medicare open Sharon Bartley (918) 678-3231 enrollment Nov. 5 from 10 am to 2 pm in [email protected] the Title VI Safe room. Trained Medicare Contract Health Counselors from Grand Gateway Area Bridget Hart (918) 678-3227 Agency on Aging will be available to [email protected] assist and answer questions. Participants Diabetes Clinic will need to bring a list of their current Donna Spaulding (918) 678-3258 [email protected] Continued on Page 19 Chris Smith Grover Tanner November 2019 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 19 Tribal Department Reports

Environmental Conference in Catoosa, Okla. During a at the Shoal Creek Water Festival. morning breakout session, I gave a pow- During the week of Aug. 19–23, Lee Submitted by Kathy Welch, er point presentation on Environmental attended the Tribal Lands and Environ- Environmental Program Manager Department Grants and activities. ment Forum in Palm Springs, Calif. During the week of July 30–31, On Aug. 22, our department hosted a July department staff attended a Sanitary Non-Point Source Workshop that was The month of July was still crazy with Survey Training, which pertained to the focused toward area farmers. The work- all the flooding still taking place at many tribal drinking water wells. The train- shop was held in the Sandusky Room of our monthly monitoring sites, we were ing was hosted by the Eastern Shawnee located at the River Bend Hotel, with unable to get samples or flow readings Tribe of Oklahoma and presenters were presentations being given by three tribes for most of the month. from the EPA Southwest Environmental and four state agencies, with each pre- During the week of July 15-19, I trav- Finance Center. sentation focusing on Non-Point Source eled to Santa Fe, N.M., for the quarterly Pollution. I presented for the Wyandotte Tribal Caucus and Regional Tribal Nation Environmental Department on Drinking Water Well samples. Operation Committee Meeting. the Non-Point Source Projects that have During the week of July 23–25, Janice been performed, using EPA 319 Non- Upcoming events Wilson and I attended the Annual ITEC Point Source Grant funding. -- Tribal Environmental Coalition of Oklahoma Meeting – Nov. 19 September -- Region Tribal Operation Committee/ September was another month of Tribal Caucus Meeting – Nov. 26-27 catch up work for our staff on our eight Services Provided monitoring sites. Because of the heavy • Private Well Drinking Water rains and flooding during the spring Sampling into summer, our metals, nutrient and • Private Home Owners Septic Ass- August bacteria sampling schedules extended to sessments We are happy to say, that our staff this month. So, we had several rounds • Lost Creek Recycle Center was finally able to access our eight of sampling that took place to keep us monthly sampling sites on the area in compliance with our Water 106 EPA Department Contacts: streams and creeks. We also were able to Grant. Kathleen Welch (Env. Department perform habitat assessments on Brush On Sept. 6, Wilson and Braulio Manager), (918) 678-6335 and Roark creeks, which were originally Ramirez had an Environmental Educa- Janice Wilson (Env. Technician), (918) due in the spring months but got delayed tion Booth at the Eastern Shawnee Lost 678-6345 due to heavy rains and flooding. Creek Water Festival on Lost Creek. Braulio Ramirez (Env. Technician II), On Aug. 10, Wilson and Christen Lee Also, throughout the past three (918) 678-6396 had an Environmental Education Booth months, staff performed several Private Jon Quick (Recycling), (918) 678-6352

Continued from Page 18 smoked brisket, baked beans, potatoes, hot rolls, devilled eggs, relish trays medications and Medicare Card. and dessert. We will be drawing for a We will be traveling to the Cherokee recliner. Santa will be giving out home- Casino/ Will Rogers Downs in Claremore, made cookies and candy. Okla., for the horse races Nov. 8. Partici- If anyone is in need of food, we col- pants will receive a $5 free play and lunch laborate with area tribes and the Tulsa will be on their own. The coach will leave Foodbank to host a Food Distribution from the parking lot in front of the Artie at the Highwinds Casino parking lot on the 3rd Thursday of each month from Nesvold Community Center at 10:30 am Larry Hamilton Isaac Tanner and return at approximately 6 pm. 11 am to Noon. Each Title VI program Please join us for our Thanksgiving has tickets to distribute to those in need. Dinner Thursday, Nov. 14, from 11:30 Participants will need to get their tickets am to 1 pm. We will have turkey & prior to the distribution. dressing, green beans, hot rolls, devilled eggs, relish trays and pumpkin pie. CAREGIVER We will be traveling to Branson, Mo., The Caregiver Support Group meets the Nov. 15, to see a Christmas Show. More first Thursday of each month in the Artie information will be available later. Nesvold Community Center safe room We will have our Elders Winter beginning at 10:30 am. This group is for all Olympics Nov. 22 at the Ottawa/Peoria current and former caregivers. It is also for John Edwards JC Roper Building in Miami, Okla., from 9 am grandparents raising grandchildren. to 1 pm. We will have games and Jack It is always a pleasure serving the Wy- Elders Services Department Staff: 6390 the donkey will visit us once again and andotte Nation citizens. Please feel free Brenda House, Elder Services Director, Seth Higginbotham, Chris Rhodes perform tricks. He gives the best kisses! to call or come by and visit us anytime. 918-678-6327. and Twylia Stone Food Service Team Our Christmas Dinner will be Dec. We would like to wish everyone a Stephanie Hamilton, Food Service Members 918-678-6328 19 from 11:30 am to 1 pm. We will have Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Team Supervisor, 918-678-6328, (Office) Menu, 918-678-6326 Page 20 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia November 2019 New Tribal Citizen Enrollment

Artripe, Walker Rhett Riley, Hunter Derrick Baldridge, Silas Benjamin Robitaille, Afreya Ann Barrett, Jaelynn Ann Robitaille, Amiyrah Rose Bass, Eliza Darlin 212 New Tribal Citizens Roller, Owen Dean Bass, Jacob Huston Rozinski, Piper Lee Bass, Maggie Leeann 6,611 Total Tribal Enrollment Russell, Hudson David Big Eagle, Sarah Mae Valliere Sanders, Shelby Marie Datsun Blake, Cooper Drew Sapp, Tristyn Lewis-Scott Bond, Alice Rose Schindler, Ada Jean Bowser, Emmalyn Grace Schindler, Eden Fay Bowser, Madelyn Joy Hackett, Jaxdyn Shawn Leforce, Isabellah Nikole Schindler, Elowen Rae Brown Heckmaster, Aspyn Michael Hale, Lillian Rose Leforce, Trystin Tyler Shamon, Bearett Guy Burwell, Axel David Hamilton, Alexis Caitlyn Maureen Leonard, KeyLeigh Marie Shideler, Peyton Olivia Buss, Bentley Joseph Harmon, Wyatt Matthew Lindsey, Colt Wyatt Shideler, River Alan Butcher, Emma Rose Hart, Elliott David Lofland, Arthur Lincoln Shockey, Tate Hudson Cantu, Ian Enrique Hart, Finley Harold Lollis, Hope Elaine Shoemake, Ayden Trent Cary, Stryker Dalyn Hart, Rosalie Rachelle Long, Logan Michael Solis, Jennifer Kristen Charlton, Stone Nicholas Joseph Hatfield, Novahlea Elizabeth Long, Scarlett Marie Souders, Alistair Kairi Suriaya Christensen, Mavrick Michael Havens, Jameson Wayne Lorenzo, Blake David Steel, Taytum Jane Clark, Summer Ann Heffron, John Edward Lorenzo, Liliana Nohemi Steele, Autumn Rayne Coffey, Kinley Jane Hoeme, Lucille Lynn Loughrige, Landon Russell Stephens, Adreanna Renee Cook, Hazel Lynn Honl, Eleanor Jane Lucas, Breanna Janel Stephens, Isaiah Adam Cookinham, Elliot James Honl, Harlow Raine Lujan, Quinn Everett Stephens, Josiah James Matthew Craig, Jesse Grant Hutto, Jeffrey Lee Lynchard, Brooklyn Hazel Stephens, Xander Cayge Crane, Jensyn Eugene Jackson, Braedy Grace Mathews, Everett Amon Stone, Lote Jackson Curtis, Opal Elaine James, Erma Marie Maughan, William W Sukstorf, Rex Cole DeArmond, Payton Delbert Alexander Jepson, Adelaide Rose McCombs, Aiden Lee Summitt, Greyson Dean Doty, Gibson Elias Johnson, Meadow Rain McCordle, Kristin Lace Thomas, John Lincoln Doty, Michael Crew Johnson, Olivia Jean McKnight, Camden Thetis Glen Thompson, Maddox Lee Edwards, Jackson O'Donnell Jones, Alyvia Eileen Ruth McQuistion, Kinley Lavonne Tippit, Cadance Lilianna Edwards, Jillian Sydney Jones, Carson Alan Miller, Kayla Danielle Tippit, Joshua Dean Edwards, Kimber Riley Jones, Haylee James Miller, Reign Alexander Tippit, Noah Jackson Eiland, Jeremy Owen Jones, Jessica Ashley Miner, McCoy Drake Vaughn, Hadley Sue Elliott, Tyler Alvin Jordan, Devin Thomas Nelson, Remington Jo Wadino, Oliver Alan Evans, Zander Scott Kenner, Jace Denney Nolan, Isaiah Michael Waldman, Layla James Fallis, Alaina Veta Nicole Kibbons, Evelyn Irene Nolan, Mya Grace Webb, Ian Lee Farmer, Saylor Saige Kilpatrick, Alexander Lee Obuch, Katherine Elizabeth Wheeler, Kenadee Lynne Farrar, Austin Ian King, Annamaria Nicole Ortiz, Marius Orion Whitaker,Jamison Gregory Ferguson, Julian Breck King, Christina Marie Parman Jr., Benjamin Michael Whitaker, Kenna Lauren Ferguson, Nathan Keith King, Jack Michael Pauls, Kade Tyler Whitaker, Martie Jo Lena Ford, Breckynn Lynn King, Samuel Morgan Perry, Collin John Wilson, Maelee Annette Gately, Chloe Grace Koon, Kooper Mackson Robert Perry, Harper Grace Wood, Emberlynn Rose Giardina, Laila Elizabeth Kost, Dannikah Raelynn Plummer, Levi Thomas Woodkey, Macy Mae Green, Greyson Allen Landers, Isabella Jane Rasor, Lincoln James Woodward, John David Griffin, Mylo Leon James Landers, Magnus Kevin Reese, Rad Ryan Yole, Raegan Linne Griggs, Megan Abigail Lankston, Beau Alexander Reneau, Jessah Grace

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