HOWNIKAN Abtenibne Gises | July 2020

Top photo: Dbekgises (the moon) appears behind the CPN water tower. Governor loses in court, federal

A LOOK INSIDE judge still to determine auto-renewal Page 3 The question of whether the Oklahoma Citizen Potawatomi Nation and other “The Department of the Interior’s Model Gaming Compacts auto-renewed Oklahoma tribes assert that the compacts thoughtless and irresponsible inaction on Jan. 1, 2020, may be decided soon automatically renewed for a 15-year term, on the compacts doesn’t change our by U.S. Western District Court Chief in part due to the many actions of the conclusion that the governor lacks Judge Timothy DeGiusti. Governor Kevin State to authorize racetracks and others the authority to enter into compacts Stitt’s attorneys recently requested that to conduct electronic gaming. Stitt has that include activities not legal in the federal court rule whether he had argued that the authorization for Class Oklahoma,” Hunter said, referring authority under state law to unilaterally III gaming at horse racing tracks occurred to sports betting and other forms of Park exhibit remembers negotiate, authorize and administer before the effective date of the compacts. gambling currently illegal under state law. Burnett’s Mound namesake gaming compacts with tribes. On June 15, Judge DeGiusti declined to tell Governor “This is the ‘pencils down’ moment for “The tribes cannot begin operating under Stitt whether he had unilateral authority the lawyers. Barring some additional the terms of these compacts until the Page 7 to compact with two Oklahoma tribes. order from Judge DeGiusti, our court many questions that remain pending The court made it clear the current case advocacy closes today, and the matter will before the Oklahoma Supreme Court in front of the Western District court is be submitted for the judge’s deliberation are resolved. I am deeply disappointed about whether the compacts have renewed. and decision,” said Stephen Greetham, in Interior Secretary (David) Bernhardt’s senior counsel for Chickasaw Nation. abdication of his responsibility to The dispute began in July 2019 when all of Oklahoma’s Native American Governor Stitt published an opinion During mediation and court proceedings, sovereigns, not just two,” Hunter said. piece in Oklahoma newspapers stating Stitt negotiated and signed compacts CPN court staff key to protecting that the agreements between the state with the Otoe-Missouria and Comanche The compacts were published in the Tribal sovereignty and tribes would terminate on Jan. 1, Nations, who were parties to the lawsuit Federal Register on June 29, 2020. 2020. In that same letter, Stitt suggested against the governor until the week of Page 12 that tribes would need to begin paying the compacts’ announcement. These Further complicating the governor’s what he deemed their “fair-market” two compacts contained controversial efforts to undermine the vast majority Medtronic director’s leadership contribution in gaming exclusivity fees. provisions that would authorize the of Oklahoma’s gaming tribes, state helps company establish tribes to conduct sports betting and legislative leaders have now weighed in Attorneys for both sides filed motions scholarship for Native Americans construct three casinos in counties to echo the attorney general’s opinion for summary judgement on June 12, outside their traditional jurisdictions. that Stitt has overstepped his authority. 2020, as ordered by Judge DeGiusti. On June 5, Oklahoma Speaker of the Pages 19-23 All parties have filed their responses Oklahoma Attorney General House Charles McCall and President to the motions, and the court is Mike Hunter said that the Tribal Executive and Pro Tempore Greg Treat filed an action positioned to make a ruling. compacts are not authorized by Legislative updates in the Oklahoma Supreme Court. the state Tribal Gaming Act. “It has been nearly a year since Governor The two highest-ranking legislative Page 24 Stitt began the dispute over the compact “The governor has the authority to leaders asked the court to “void” the auto-renewal by publishing an opinion negotiate with tribes on behalf of the governor’s compacts with the Comanche Walking on piece in the newspaper instead of state,” Hunter said. “However, the Nation and Otoe-Missouria Tribe. meeting with tribal leaders,” said Citizen only gaming activities authorized Potawatomi Nation Tribal Chairman by the act may be the subject of According to an article in The John “Rocky” Barrett. “We continue to a tribal gaming compact.” Oklahoman by Randy Ellis, they stand with the other plaintiffs in this described the governor’s actions as a case and maintain our position that the Those compacts were “deemed approved” “unilateral power grab” and as “serious Nation’s compact automatically renewed by the U.S. Department of Interior, dereliction” of the governor’s duty on Jan. 1, 2020, for a 15-year term.” drawing further criticism from Hunter. under the Oklahoma Constitution. PR SRT STD PR SRT US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO 49 PERMIT STIGLER, OK 74462 2 JULY 2020 HOWNIKAN Weld descendant named OAOP’s Optometric Physician of the Year Citizen Potawatomi Nation tribal the growth, and he was very passionate member Dr. Crystal Mosteller recently about the town. He got me excited. accepted the 2020 Oklahoma Association of Optometric Physicians’ Optometric “With a little bit of his help, I was able Physician of the Year award. Fellow to get the ball rolling and get in with the optometrists across the state cast bankers, get my (U.S. Small Business their votes, nominating her for the Administration) loan. So, once I looked OAOP’s highest annual accolade. at Tuttle, I never looked anywhere else.” “To be selected by my peers was a huge, She purchased a building and began huge honor,” Dr. Mosteller said. “I renovations in fall 2006. By spring 2007, joke that I still don’t quite know Tuttle Family Eyecare opened to the public. why it was me over others because there are many others that do a lot of Owning her own practice “is an equal important things for the association amount of joy and stress, and I wouldn’t as well. But, I appreciate it, and I am have it any other way,” Dr. Mosteller said. deeply honored. I feel I am just one For the first few years, she also held piece of the puzzle that helps makes a part-time contracting position Oklahoma optometry the best.” at the Fort Sill Army Base while Dr. Mosteller operates her practice Tuttle Dr. Mosteller accepts OAOP’s Optometric Physician of the establishing her practice. Family Eyecare in Tuttle, Oklahoma. She Year award in March 2020. (Photo provided) “I am fortunate to be here, and I began volunteering with OAOP while Tahlequah, Oklahoma, she studied The career appealed to her, and am glad that I can be of service in optometry school, and since 2006, to the community,” she said. has served in its congress committee biology and chemistry at Cameron she discussed the opportunity and executive committee for education University in Lawton, Oklahoma. CPN with her guidance counselor. Dr. Mosteller creates a slower- as well as became a member of the tribal scholarships assisted Dr. Mosteller “I said something about working paced office environment by taking OAOP Leadership Class of 2008. throughout her educational pursuits, her time with each patient. especially during optometry school for an optometrist, and he said, The organization stated, “Dr. Mosteller when she was unable to work due to ‘Crystal, if they’ll pay for it, why “I want to know who my patients mentors our young (doctors of optometry), her large course load and clinicals. not be an optometrist?’ And it was are throughout the day. They’re not is a constant presence at OAOP functions, the first time anybody had ever put a number to me — they’re not a and is not afraid to hit the campaign “It started out as a small amount. It that level of confidence verbally to set of eyes; they’re people to me.” trail and knock doors with political was enough to help cover books me. I’d never thought that big for candidates who care about protecting and stuff, and by the time I finished myself, and it made me open my Owning Tuttle Family Eyecare for more great vision health in Oklahoma.” optometry school, I was also getting eyes,” Dr. Mosteller explained. than 13 years has provided her the the housing assistance, which opportunity to see the community expand The close-knit nature of OAOP helped a lot,” Dr. Mosteller said. From that conversation, she began and children grow into young adults. drives her service and dedication her undergraduate studies with the to the organization. STEM-related subjects have always goal of attending optometry school. “I have seen kids in early elementary who interested Dr. Mosteller. As she began have graduated high school and college,” “We care about each other. There is no the process of deciding a field of Going into practice Dr. Mosteller said. “It’s definitely surreal.” competition between your neighbors. study post high school, her science, When you need something, you call technology, engineering and math The process of opening and operating While balancing a small business and your fellow optometrists, and they help interests helped narrow her options. her own practice began immediately parenthood can present challenges you. It’s a wonderful profession. It is not after graduating from NSU. As someone for anyone, through the years, Dr. jealousy and fighting for competition. “In high school, I really kind of who grew up in rural Comanche, Mosteller has learned one key lesson. It is truly a family that reaches out found my niche in science. I liked Oklahoma, Dr. Mosteller wanted to and helps each other,” she said. sociology and psychology and the live in a community like her hometown “I have learned how to ask for help. That’s human involvement,” she said. but near Oklahoma City. She heard probably one of the most challenging Career inspiration about Tuttle and decided to visit. things I think people can do,” she said. While a senior at Comanche High School, Before receiving her Doctor of she toured East Central University “I met with the mayor, who is now Learn more about Dr. Mosteller and Optometry degree in 2006 from in Ada, Oklahoma, and learned (Oklahoma) Senator Lonnie Paxton,” her practice Tuttle Family Eyecare on Northeastern State University in about jobs in the optometric field. she said. “He was very eager about all facebook.com/tuttlefamilyeyecare. Foster families needed during the COVID-19 pandemic By Kendra Lowden, Foster Potawatomi foster children into culturally Care/Adoption Manager appropriate homes. After approval, foster parents continue to work closely with The coronavirus pandemic has impacted our team as they begin the journey of countless individuals, communities, busi- accepting children into their home. nesses and social services agencies across the world. Despite these recent events, FireLodge Children & Family Services FireLodge Children & Family Services continually stays in contact with foster continues our work in protecting and pre- parents and Citizen Potawatomi children serving Native American families. Child during the pandemic. We have been able welfare programs do not discontinue to assist families who have had difficulty services, even during a crisis. Our dedi- locating resources and services. Our case cated staff are working tirelessly to ensure managers significantly increased virtual children are safe and cared for during contacts with families to offer meaningful this trying time while also emphasizing connections while promoting safety. the importance of cultural connections. Potawatomi children need Native FireLodge Children & Family Services American families to answer the call to offers multiple programs designed to foster and adopt. Interested families best serve the unique and individual will receive detailed information about needs of our clients, including those our current virtual processes while who are a part of the foster care and receiving one-on-one support. For adoption program. This program is more information about FireLodge responsible for foster parent recruitment, Children & Family Services, call us completing the home study process and at 405-878-4831, or visit us online coordinating the placement of Citizen at facebook.com/CPNfirelodge.

Get the Hownikan via email! If you would like your newspaper via email, please send your name and address to [email protected] and let us know. HOWNIKAN JULY 2020 3 Park exhibit remembers Burnett’s Mound namesake The Citizen Potawatomi Nation and the travelers that were on the Oregon Shawnee County Parks and Recreation Trail. He was a prosperous livestock Department partnered to highlight trader, and he was also a farmer.” the history of Burnett’s Mound at Skyline Park in Topeka, Kansas. Named He passed away in 1870 and was known after 19th century Potawatomi Chief as the largest man in Kansas at 450 Abram Burnett, the mound is Topeka’s pounds. While local rumors indicate highest elevated point. The display the mound serves as Chief Burnett’s at its base opened spring 2020 and final resting place, his grave is on land features three informational panels. west of Skyline Park. Also, many in northeastern Kansas believe that Chief “The new exhibit lets people know Burnett said no one should ever disturb that we were here and that we’re still the mound due to its sacredness or else here,” said Citizen Potawatomi Nation face harsh repercussions because the District 4 Legislator Jon Boursaw. Great Spirit looks out for its well-being. Skyline Park highlights Potawatomi history and Chief Abram Burnett. On top of serving as the District 4 Leg- According to the story, the mound islator, Boursaw studies Potawatomi Chief Burnett “Abram Burnett learned how to read, protected the area from tornadoes. and Kansas history. He takes every write and speak English while attending However, in the 1960s, interstate opportunity to educate others through Abram Burnett, Nanweshmah (He who Choctaw Indian Academy in Kentucky, construction began, cutting into the hill’s presentations, writing and leading events. prays with plants), was born in Indiana and because of his background, he base and leveling a portion at the top to Because of this, he set out to build a part- near the Tippecanoe River in November served as an interpreter on the Trail place a water tank. In 1966, a violent nership between CPN and the Shawnee 1812. After Burnett’s real father, Chief of Death,” Boursaw said. “But when F5 tornado caused more than $200 County Parks and Recreation Depart- Shauquebe, passed away, his mother’s he arrived, there was nothing here.” million in damages and killed 17 people. ment to showcase the role Potawatomi cousin, also named Abraham Burnett, played in Topeka’s development as adopted him, resulting in his English Although the Potawatomi are Eastern Whether the legend holds any truth well as Burnett’s Mound’s namesake. name: Abraham or Abram B. Burnett. woodland people, many Tribal members may never be determined. However, succeeded on the Kansas prairies, it remains clear that Chief Burnett’s “I hope it helps people have a greater Chief Burnett studied at a Baptist including Chief Burnett. He settled legacy serves as a reminder of the appreciation for us, and at least, an mission in Fort Wayne, Indiana, under the mound in 1848 and began taking hardships the Potawatomi and other acknowledgement of why it’s called Reverend Isaac McCoy and at the advantage of the economic opportunities Native communities overcame post- Burnett’s Mound,” he added. Choctaw Academy in Kentucky. In the Oregon Trail provided as travelers removal to build their homes and 1838, he and his family were forcibly crossed the Potawatomi Reservation. businesses in unfamiliar lands. “I think it’s important that people removed from Indiana to present-day know who Burnett was and that the Kansas on the Trail of Death. During “Abram Burnett was a man of commerce, For more information on the Potawatomi did have a major presence the removal, Chief Burnett utilized and he had a role in helping Shawnee Citizen Potawatomi Nation, in what is now Shawnee County his skills to serve fellow Potawatomi County become what it is today,” visit potawatomi.org. prior to it becoming a county.” on the long, hard 660-mile journey. Boursaw said. “He was successful with Why your credit score matters

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The Citizen Potawatomi Nation Deb Haaland, who represents New learn something from you because Department of Education sent two Tribal Mexico’s 1st District, and Sharice Davids, you have a different experience than members for the Close Up Foundation’s House Representatives member for me,’ and I thought that was really, American Indian and Alaska Native Kansas’s 3rd Congressional District. really interesting,” Tade said. Youth Summit in Washington D.C. Taylor Tade and Kylie Carter spent six “She mainly talked about her journey The program also split the participants days this February in the country’s capital, in becoming a congresswoman and her into smaller groups for a mock meeting with Native American leaders in beginnings and being Native American congressional trial. In teams, they each politics, visiting historic landmarks and and how she came to terms with being took on different roles after being utilizing their knowledge to present ideas different. But also knowing that she assigned an issue and their position. for growth in Indigenous communities. could still be a congresswoman, and Carter was a lobbyist in favor of raising having her differences helped her through the federal minimum wage, which she Tade is a junior at Bridgeland High School that,” Carter said about meeting Davids. enjoyed more than she anticipated. in Cyprus, Texas. Living a considerable Thanks to Carter’s work, the raise passed. distance from CPN headquarters near Listening to each speak about their Shawnee, Oklahoma, she felt Close Up struggles and achieving their dreams “It was fun, actually,” she said. “I provided an opportunity to connect. made the outcome seem more thought I was going to be nervous attainable for Carter. Tade enjoyed her talking to a group of 20 people, trying “I’m really interested in getting to time with the representatives as well, to persuade them into this thing and know more about my culture and particularly the chance to view how then taking questions. But I wasn’t my heritage, but because I live so far Native history affects Indigenous people as nervous as I thought I was going away from the actual Tribal grounds, I politically on a national level today. to be once I just started talking.” don’t often get to meet with people or discuss it. So, I just wanted to “I think people like Deb Haaland and They spent much of their trip exploring be able to expand my knowledge Sharice Davids and all the people the Nation’s capital and learning from on that a little more,” Tade said. that are representing Natives now are museums and historic sites. Their really fighting and trying to overcome visits included the Vietnam Veterans Carter, whose Potawatomi name those kinds of things that have Memorial, White House, Thomas is Wabse or Swan, is a freshman at happened in the past,” Tade said. Carter (right) and Tade visit the Marine Jefferson Memorial, United States Mountain Pointe High School in Corps War Memorial, one of the many Air Force Memorial and more. They Phoenix, Arizona. She moved to While the program did not specifically historic sites on the agenda for the Close Up both appreciated the architectural Phoenix from Norman, Oklahoma, focus on women and female Foundation program. (Photo provided) beauty of the Lincoln Memorial and empowerment, it helped both attendees’ where she frequently took part in Tribal pressure that affect Native populations at the Smithsonian Institution’s National gatherings. Her dad is a lawyer for the confidence. They also saw Silent Sky at Museum of the American Indian. a higher rate than the general population. Gila River Indian Community, and Ford’s Theatre, a play about the life of Close Up inspired Tade to continue her she often discusses Indigenous political Henrietta Swan Leavitt, an astronomer at “We wanted to create an environment love of political science and newfound issues over dinner at home. She was Harvard College Observatory in the late where people could learn about health interest in Native American issues. She interested in spending time where 1800s. She and a group of women known issues and how to avoid these things,” national laws come to life after her as “computers” set standards in their field looks forward to becoming more involved Carter said. “So, we wanted to create a in her community and participate parents told her about the program. and helped astronomer and physicist health center or a community center that Edward Pickering map the universe. on a larger scale as she gets older. “I went into it for more of the political people could join, take classes on how to experience, knowing how I can affect “It’s really cool because she was a woman, make healthy choices, things like that.” Carter enjoys social studies, and her my local government and even national and women weren’t even allowed to use family’s path in law sparks a flare They wanted to include a place to government,” Carter said. “But I the telescope back then,” Carter said. for becoming a congressperson. The grow fresh produce, teach cooking didn’t expect to get out more things trip to Washington laid it out in classes and even shop for healthier about my Native American heritage, Group work front of her, allowing her to see but I found that we focused a lot on options. For Tade, working on the day-to-day operations of the Both CPN members at Close Up worked it throughout the trip. And it made the project taught her the value of capital, if she chooses that path. with attendees representing the Wichita me feel very proud of my heritage.” brainstorming across communities. and Affiliated Tribes on a project to Keep an eye on opportunities with the Women in leadership outline a potential solution for an issue “We didn’t always just disagree. On Citizen Potawatomi Nation Department facing Indian Country. They chose to certain things, we all kind of had of Education at cpn.news/education Tade and Carter spent time with two focus on health, specifically diabetes similar views. And we all kind of were as well as on the Tribe’s Facebook Native American congresswomen — and heart conditions like high blood coming from a point of, ‘I want to page, @citizenpotawatomination. Legislative update July 2020 On May 28, Tribal Chairman John Tribal Homeland Security Grant program, “Rocky” Barrett called to order the the Institute of Museum and Library Citizen Potawatomi Nation legislature. Services’ Basic Library Services program All members were in attendance. and the National Park Service’s Historic Preservation Office Grant program. To begin, legislators approved the minutes from previous meetings before listening Similar applications were approved to a presentation from CPN Legal De- for two United States Department of partment on the status of the Coronavi- Health and Human Services’ programs rus Relief Funds issued to the Nation as — the 2020 Family First Prevention part of the Congressional CARES Act. Services Act Transition Grant and 2020 Tribal Opioid Response Grant Legislators approved two resolutions re- from the Substance Abuse and Mental garding an increase in funding for two Health Services Administration. Citizen Potawatomi Nation’s Sanitation Facilities Construction Program projects The body approved the conditional offered through the U.S. Indian Health relinquishment of citizenship for one Service. The body also approved a resolu- Tribal member and confirmed the enroll- tion supporting the Nation’s update of the ment of 120 new Citizen Potawatomi. Transportation Safety Plan in agreement with the Federal Highway Administration. Executives and legislators then expressed condolences to Julia Slavin, wife of Tribal legislators approved several appli- District 1 Legislator Roy Slavin who cations for federal funding opportunities, walked on in April. They thanked her including through the U.S. Department for her contributions to the Nation and of Justice’s Office of Victims of Crime, the concluded the meeting with a moment of Federal Emergency Management Agency’s silence in honor of Legislator Slavin. HOWNIKAN JULY 2020 5 Grand Travel Plaza manager serves Tribal patrons for more than three decades In summer 2020, Grand Travel Plaza Dotson has held positions at several CPN Manager Diana Dotson reached 35 enterprises in addition to the Potawatomi years of employment with Citizen Tribal Store, where she worked as a cashier, Potawatomi Nation. She has held shift supervisor and assistant manager. She many different titles throughout her then became the manager at the Tribe’s time at the Tribe, but customer service smoke shop in Tecumseh. When FireLake remains the centerpiece of her career. Express Grocery replaced it, she managed the smoke shop there as well. She then “Every day’s a new day. I never come worked at FireLake Discount Foods as in expecting just to have a boring day. smoke shop manager and loss prevention. There’s always something going on or something happening,” she said. She began managing the Grand Travel Plaza in 2012 after much consideration. Dotson grew up in Moore, Oklahoma, Dotson oversees its large staff, including and graduated from Moore High School. six supervisors and two assistant In 1985 at 21 years old, she moved with managers who welcomed her and helped her 2-year-old son to Pottawatomie her transition into her new position. County to live closer to her parents. Not long afterward, CPN hired her as a cashier “They’re all good people as well as at the former Potawatomi Tribal Store. professionally and personally. It’s your second home, so you’ve got to enjoy Working for the Tribe has passed through who you work with. … It’s good to the generations. In 1987, she had her have other people who you work Cherokee Nation citizen Diana Dotson continues to serve customers at second son, and they moved into their with that are wanting to work for the Citizen Potawatomi Nation enterprises after 35 years with the Tribe. own home. In 1994, Dotson married company long term also, and it’s their people knew it as the Citizen Band Although a citizen of the Cherokee her husband who has worked for CPN second home too,” Dotson said. for 23 years. She helped raise her two Potawatomi Celebration and All-Nations Nation, Dotson never anticipated a stepsons and stepdaughter as well. Now, She grew alongside the Tribe during Pow-wow. As a public event, people career at a Native American tribe. The she has seven granddaughters, ages 2 the last three decades. The Nation paid for concessions and other keepsakes store happened to be the first position to 21. All five children and one of her owned a few businesses and a small while attending. The Nation renamed she applied for in her new hometown, granddaughters have worked for CPN. store in the mid-‘80s; now, with two it the Family Reunion Festival in 1998, and she received the job on the same day. casinos, a hotel, three grocery stores welcoming only Tribal members. Her promotions and memories remind Development and many restaurants, it is the largest her that Tribal leadership views her as “We would have a small convenience employer in Pottawatomie County. a dedicated, hard-working employee. Dotson enjoys regularly meeting new store-type down at the festival grounds, Dotson said she owes much of her people and building relationships with “It’s just amazing how they’ve come. and we would sell the pop and chips growth with CPN to FireLake Discount her friends and co-workers. Before I mean, when I started, there was and candy bars,” Dotson said, describing Foods Director Richard Driskell. working as a cashier, she had a reserved the bingo hall, administration, setting up and stocking a small, personality throughout school. Dotson and the museum and gift shop. wooden building for the weekend. “It’s a good place to work, and I never believes working at CPN helped her Along with the convenience store felt that I needed to go anywhere While the Nation no longer sells become more social in adulthood. that was about it” she said. else. Didn’t have any desire to, I food and refreshments on powwow guess. I felt at home and welcomed “I think it’s kind of brought me out a Family Reunion Festival grounds, she still participates and serves here — and appreciated,” she said. little bit to be not so much shy, more through the decades food and drinks. She appreciates the outgoing and able to talk and engage opportunity Festival provides to meet To look at a full list of CPN businesses, with strangers … because you have Dotson began serving Family Reunion Citizen Potawatomi from all over the visit potawatomi.org/enterprises. to in customer service,” she said. Festival attendees in the ‘80s when country and world in her position. Veterans report or mind and you meet at least one Who is covered? • Cancers caused by contact with of the requirements listed below: toxic chemicals or other dangers • Veterans • Post-traumatic stress disorder Both of these must be true. You: • Qualified dependents • Served on active duty, active duty for • Depression training or inactive duty training What if you received an other • Anxiety than honorable, bad conduct • Have a disability rating for your or dishonorable discharge? We thank all of our veterans, Native or Bozho service-connected condition not, male and female, for their service (Hello), If you received one of these And at least one of these to this great nation, the United States discharge statuses, you may be must be true. You: of America! Migwetch (Thanks)! An issue that is of interest to many eligible for VA disability benefits. veterans is the filing a claim for • Got sick or injured while serving Until further notice, our Citizen disability benefits. The Veterans Benefits in the military — and can link this There are two ways you can try to qualify: Potawatomi Nation Veterans Administration is still accepting claims condition to your illness or injury • Find out how to apply for Organization has suspended our meetings for disability compensation, despite (called an in-service disability claim) a discharge upgrade and other activities until this pandemic the COVID-19 pandemic. On May 28, • Had an illness or injury before crisis has passed. Be well, and God bless! VBA resumed in-person compensation • Learn about the VA Character you joined the military — and and pension exams in some locations of Discharge review process Migwetch serving made it worse (called a and plans to make them available in (Thank you), pre-service disability claim) What conditions are covered more locations when possible. If an by these benefits? Daryl Talbot, Commander in-person exam is not available yet, • Have a disability related to your active-duty service that did not [email protected] you can still submit private treatment • Chronic back pain resulting in appear until after you ended your 405-275-1054 records or request that VBA obtain current diagnosed back disability those records on your behalf. You service (called a post-service claim) CPN VA Representative: can always seek accredited assistance • Breathing problems resulting from a Presumed disabilities: Andrew Whitham in completing claims and get more current lung condition or lung disease information assistance online. • A chronic illness that appears • Severe hearing loss CPN Office Hours: 1st and within one year after discharge 3rd Wednesday each month Are you eligible for VA • Scar tissue • An illness caused by your time 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. disability compensation? • Traumatic brain injury spent as a prisoner of war (POW) 918-397-2566 You may be able to get VA disability • An illness caused by contact with • Loss of range of motion compensation if you have a current chemicals (toxic chemicals) or (problems moving your body) illness or injury that affects your body other hazardous materials • Ulcers 6 JULY 2020 HOWNIKAN Tami Fleeman finds career opportunities caring for elders Tami Fleeman’s nearly three decades “Meeting people that do the same opinions on the curriculum as part of a as a nurse has allowed her to see the thing you do and having fun with group of professionals, including CHRs. career from every angle — intensive care them. You know, there’s always a lot units, labor and delivery, and elderly of talk of, ‘what we’ve done in this “They really listen to the suggestions patients. During her time as coordinator tribe’ and ‘that hasn’t worked for us, so we give them because we’re actually of Citizen Potawatomi Nation’s Title we did this,’” Fleeman said. “It’s an doing that job,” she said. “I’ve been VI and senior care program, Fleeman honor to be part of that because I know impressed that a lot of the things we has become a leader in her field. She how important the conference is.” suggest, they take and make those offers guidance to several organizations changes. And I feel like they’re really in an effort to improve elder care across Fleeman is currently running unopposed trying to listen to the frontline workers Oklahoma and Indian Country. for the position of vice president of the and fit the education to what they need.” organization. She views the leadership CPN initially hired Fleeman as role as a chance for networking and a The program also sought tribal caregivers coordinator of public health and special look into how other tribes run in particular due to their regard for community health representatives in their CHR departments. Each one elders and the use of CHRs. Although 2011. Six months later, she received an focuses on different populations or she is not Indigenous, Fleeman enjoys additional title as coordinator of clinical goals, depending on their community’s working for the Nation and developing the curriculum given her personal nursing. Shortly after, the Tribe then needs. Elders with decades of experience history with the condition. Her offered her the unique opportunity to in the field make up the majority of the mother was diagnosed with dementia, manage Title VI while still overseeing the Oklahoma association. While Fleeman’s and Fleeman admires how Natives CHRs, also known as “senior support.” After nearly 30 years as a nurse, Title experience is in health care, she began prioritize and respect older relatives. Previously separate, the two programs VI Director Tami Fleeman continues her working with CHRs only eight years ago. career with Citizen Potawatomi Nation. combined under Fleeman’s leadership. “I’ve seen people quit their job and move “You’re just coming into a situation and from out of state to come live with “They blend really well together because times, we have to implement changes learning about what it is they do,” she to keep them there,” Fleeman said. dad when he started failing or getting a lot of the people we have come eat (at said. “I always think that elders give a lot dementia, and it just wasn’t safe anymore the Elder Center) are also people that Title VI has expanded in the last decade, back, and they’re a wealth of knowledge. or moved them to where they are,” she the community health representatives welcoming more elders for lunch and There’s a lot of question and answer.” said. “They take care of their elders much visit in their home,” Fleeman said. “And interaction on weekdays, thanks to Dementia training development better than the general population.” if we don’t visit them, I know when Fleeman and other CHRs’ efforts to they’re not coming; they’re having some spread the word about the activities Caring for and ensuring the safety After decades in ICUs and labor and illness, or they’re having some issues. And and services available to their clients. of patients with Alzheimer’s and delivery in several hospitals, she never an- then I can get the community health dementia presents unique challenges in ticipated making elder care a career niche. representatives to check with them.” CHR conference geriatrics. The University of Oklahoma “It wasn’t something that I really thought CHRs visit elders who need some assis- For the last several years, Fleeman has Health Sciences Center received a U.S. about doing, and I love it. I absolutely tance with certain tasks or keeping their attended and helped organize the annual Department of Health and Human love it,” Fleeman said. “I feel like I’m medications in order but not full-time care. weeklong conference for the Oklahoma Services grant in summer 2019. Part of really able to help people stay in their Area Association of CHRs. The only local it funds developing training available homes as long as possible or get the care “We do everything we can to assist them. conference of its kind, it regularly attracts nationwide for primary caregivers on how that they really need. It’s very rewarding.” The department’s mission is to keep between 100 and 125 attendees who work to better treat and interact with dementia people in their homes as long as they for tribes across the country, including patients. The OHSC welcomed Fleeman Find out more about CPN’s Title are safely able to stay there. And a lot of New Mexico, Arizona and Montana. to give her recommendations and VI program at cpn.news/elders. Language update FOR LIFE’S By Justin Neely, CPN Language Ngi-mikwnebwama. I reminded him/her. Department Director Anmikwa – to take someone UPS & DOWNS Take the opportunity to work on the to task for something language during our quarantine time. Take Cho ngeshktosin ewi mbayan. part in one of the many online language- I am unable to sleep. learning opportunities we offer. Find more information at potawatomi.org/language. Nbakwnemak – he/she opens it for me This month, check out some fun Kenandep – skull/bonehead (Some phrases that I got from Jim Thunder, use this jokingly to say “bonehead.”) one of our last first language Ni je etsegongezet o penojes? How speakers from Wisconsin. Enjoy! many days old is that baby? Gégo bye bidgekén. Gde Boniken! Leave it alone. (singular) FNB is here to help. bogtheshkwewzede! Don’t come FNB is here to help. in. Your feet are muddy! Bonikmok! You all leave it alone. (plural) From establishing savings plans to navigating the loan process, we’ll guide you when things Pegdowshen i pkwakwet. Ngi-bonikan. I left it alone. are teetering into the unknown. Throw the ball to me. are teetering into the unknown. Dapneshen. Pick me up. Pegdow i pkwakwet. Throw Mbagnek shgeshem o penoje. Neighbors help each other during tough times — him/her the ball. your neighborhood bank shouldn’t be any different. Put the baby on the bed. your neighborhood bank shouldn’t be any different. Bokdonenwi o ndanes. My Ngi-pamse’a o ndeish. I daughter is pouting. am walking the dog. Megwetsownekeni – Octopus Mbemse shi myewesek. I am TALK TO US. FIRST. Wgi thagzedzo o ngwes dbekok. My walking on the path. TALK TO US. FIRST. son burned himself last night. I shna ewi jakgishgewat nnijansek Nekwsegwzedejen. I have wpi nishwabdekpbomgek. In 20 a splinter in my foot. years, my kids will be all grown up. Wdenwan ni wdedeymen. He Gégo jinewsekén. Don’t be greedy. takes after his dad. Gégo kwansegsekén. Don’t be stingy! Wdenwan ni wneneymen. She Anodze – another word for greedy takes after her mom. Metawgak – sandy area Mikwnebwamshen. Remind me. | Ngi-nkweshkak. He met me. 405.275.8830 | FNBOKLA.bank Wdapkadebzo. He/she is having a Charlie horse. Nmokjane. I have a pimple on my nose. HOWNIKAN JULY 2020 7 CPN court staff key to protecting Tribal sovereignty The Citizen Potawatomi Nation Dis- Describe the hardest Lisa Otipoby-Herburt began working trict Court serves to enforce CPN tribal part of your job. for CPN in October 2010 and currently laws, uphold justice and guard Tribal serves as the children’s (juvenile deprived) sovereignty. The court oversees criminal, “Seeing cases that involve children prosecutor for the Nation’s court. She’s civil, Indian Child Welfare and juvenile who are in a bad situation.” a citizen of the Comanche Nation and proceedings under the direction of Chief What is your favorite finds her career at CPN rewarding. District Judge Philip Lujan and Associate part of your job? District Judges Robert Wiley and William “It is an honor to work for a Tribe that demonstrates stability and Davis. A small group of talented behind- “Witnessing a great outcome of a accountability to the Tribal membership.” the-scenes staff members ensure the court bad situation, like an adoption.” carries out its duties. The Hownikan spoke What does a day at work with each court employee, and their re- look like for you? sponses have been lightly edited for clarity. “Generally, I have telephone calls or texts from FireLodge Children & Family Services workers to respond to while I’m travelling to the office. Once in the door, I meet with the FireLodge Children & Family Service’s director Kelley D. Harris, criminal prosecutor and/or caseworkers for updates on the open cases or to staff new cases Kelley Harris began working at the requiring the attention of either that Nation in October 2009 as a criminal department or the court. I meet with prosecutor. He is a citizen of the the court staff to see if there are any Cherokee Nation, and Harris assists with matters requiring my attention. I then prosecuting criminal defendants who have return to my office to draft pleadings committed crimes in CPN’s jurisdiction. or responses based on the staffings. Toni R. Sears, court clerk What does a day at work “Often I am preparing for court, or walk- look like for you? Toni R. Sears, a court clerk within ing directly into court upon my arrival. the CPN court, celebrated her sixth On court days, I present, as necessary, be- “I am usually here two days a week for fore the court. Following court, I generally criminal court and Healing to Wellness Andrea Gabel, court clerk anniversary with CPN this spring. The Anderson descendant is thankful and draft proposed orders for the judge’s ap- Court. We usually have criminal court proval based upon what happened in court dockets on Monday and Wednesday and Andrea Gabel has served as a court proud of her work for the Nation. that morning. I prepare responses for Healing to Wellness Court on Wednesday clerk for both the CPN District and What does a day at work FireLodge Children & Family Services in afternoons. Our office receives police CPN Supreme Court for the past four look like for you? certain guardianship cases and other state reports from Citizen Potawatomi Nation years. As a Cherokee Nation citizen, she court proceedings, wherein the Nation has Police Department, and we review those appreciates the opportunity her job “My day consists of checking emails been noticed. There is never a dull mo- reports. And if charges are warranted, we provides to serve fellow Native Americans. for any required actions, answering ment and never down time when it comes will file criminal complaints against the questions over the phone and in-person, to serving as the juvenile prosecutor.” suspects. On criminal dockets, we can What does a day at work typing court documents, pulling files, look like for you? have arraignments, dispositions, reviews working on court dockets, prepping What are your key roles? or trials depending on what stage the the court room for court, witnessing “The first thing I do is to prepare for court, criminal case is at against the defendant “Key roles include advising FireLodge and documenting each court session.” who is charged with a criminal offense.” then afterwards, work on the necessary Children & Family Services and preparing documents that need to be filed, reviewed What are your key roles? for court proceedings and presenting What is something that others may and scanned. I process the mail that in court on behalf of the Nation.” comes in, and most of all, assist Tribal “My key roles are all aspects of not know about the CPN court? the day-to-day efficiency and members that come to the administration What is something that others may “The Citizen Potawatomi Nation district documentation of the court.” building for information or to process not know about the CPN court? court has a Healing to Wellness Court documents and answer the phones.” program for defendants that are charged What is something others may not “Although the perception is that What are your key roles? know about your department? with drug or alcohol related offenses to try FireLodge Children & Family Services and help those individuals address their is about removing children from “I prepare for court, take notes during “Others may not know we do addictions and get free of illegal substances, marriages and adoptions.” their homes, their ultimate goal is to or alcohol addiction, so that they can have court, process the necessary documents reunify families by helping them gain from court and provide customer service a positive impact in the community.” Describe the hardest parenting and life skills so children can to those who contact us for information.” part of your job. be safe and thrive in their homes.” If you had to pick only one What does your aspect of your job that is your “The hardest part of my job is not If you had to pick only one work mean to you? favorite, what would that be? being able to help someone.” aspect of your job that is your “It means everything, not just a livelihood, favorite, what would that be? “Working with court personnel What does your work mean to you? and the interactions with Citizen but pride, a sense of heritage and knowing “It would be the day that a child safely that how far Natives have come and how “It is rewarding to watch the actual court Potawatomi Nation law enforcement reunifies with their family or a child finds officers in trying to help those who far we can excel in future generations. procedures and process in action and their ‘forever’ home through adoption.” knowing I am a part of the court.” have been victims of a crime.” “It’s hard to describe how good it feels Describe the hardest What is the hardest to be able to assist Potawatomi Tribal part of your job. members and other Natives that live part of your job? within the court’s jurisdiction. It brings “Recognizing that a family will not “Seeing so many young people with more pride to the work that I do. It is likely be able to have a child returned addictions to alcohol or illegal drugs and just not providing customer service to to them because the home is not a the impact that those addictions have someone; it has a family feel to it.” safe environment. The decision will on their lives now and into the future.” come after offering every service and What is something others may not reasonable opportunity to the family What does your know about your department? to be safe and provide for their child.” work mean to you? “We go to specific trainings to better What does your “I have always enjoyed working with assist the Tribal members when the need work mean to you? criminal law and have done so for arises. Both court clerks have achieved over 20 years both as a prosecutor and the Tribal Court Clerk II status from “I serve the Citizen Potawatomi Nation. representing criminal defendants as a the National American Indian Court Everything that I do is a reflection public defender. I think I am fortu- Judges Association and have received upon the Nation and how it cares for nate to work for a Tribe that has many Certificates of Court Management for its children and families. My work is services for individuals charged with Tribal Judges and Personnel trainings important because it has the potential criminal offenses; through not only the from the National Judicial College. Those to impact the lives of our Tribal citizens Healing to Wellness Court program for trainings are difficult — a lot to take in for generations. I take that responsibility illegal drug and alcohol addictions, but a short amount of time and then come Lisa B. Otipoby-Herburt, very seriously, and I intend that my back to implement our training.” juvenile prosecutor work reflects that commitment.” Continued on page 12 8 JULY 2020 HOWNIKAN HR generalist proves hard work and dedication are important to success Many children dream of earning a spot Williams played 24 qualifying games on Team USA. For most, the vision and 24 games of match play before never manifests, but Citizen Potawatomi moving onto the top five, which allowed Nation Human Resource Generalist him to vie for the 2006 National Fero Williams overcame the barriers. Amateur Championship title. He earned a spot on USA’s Bowling Team from 2006 to 2008. Williams Although Williams lost the top award, brings the same level of dedication he broke a few records and held required to reach such a prestigious second place throughout the week. milestone to his position at the Nation. “Once I made it up the step ladder, and “I tell everyone I was born in the I was No. 2, I broke down because it bowling center, and I was raised in was for (my dad),” he said. “I wish I the bowling center,” he said, then would have been able to see his face laughed. “Those were my stomping once they announced my name.” grounds that I grew up in. It was a great thing, and it opened doors for me.” Williams attributes his success to his parents’ constant support and dedication. “King of 60 Feet” “All of the work they put in — taking During his youth, Williams enjoyed you to tournaments, spending the variety of activities and cultures money for you to go to tournaments, found throughout Gardena, California. Fero Williams’ experience on Team USA pushes him to strive for practicing equipment — it all leads excellence in everything he does. (Photo provided) up to that one point where you “You had many different avenues of say, ‘I have arrived,’’’ he said. education and sports,” he said. “I had time and effort to hone his craft. football and basketball kind of a great childhood and a lot of friends. He learned new shots by building went to the backside,” he said. Today You got to know all different races and muscle memory through repetition how everybody was raised different.” before focusing on precision. After five semesters at El Camino College, As an HR generalist, Williams enjoys Williams transferred to the University learning about Tribal operations and His parents relocated from the southern “After I learned how to hook the ball and of Southern California where he earned recruiting and keeping talented employees, United States to California before having be able to get the ball to do what I wanted a bachelor’s in computer engineering. but he has not forgotten his roots. He Williams and his two older sisters. As it to do, I then had to relearn how to participates in several bowling leagues they explored hobbies in their new state, be accurate and learn how to spare,” he Achieving goals across central Oklahoma in his free time. bowling became a staple in their lives said. “And once that happened, I started and eventually, their children’s as well. learning from the great local bowlers Williams began working to earn a spot “Bowling is still my first love, and Time spent at the bowling alley with his that I looked up to since I was a kid.” on Team USA at 14, and he kept trying I’ll never, ever walk away from it parents as a kid inspires Williams today. to achieve the goal as an adult. However, because I’ve made a lot of friends, Due to his talents, Williams eventually when his dad passed away in 2005, he and it’s taken me places I’ve never “My parents are who I look up to earned the nickname “King of 60 Feet” had a renewed sense of purpose. been before,” Williams said. most because everything they learned from fellow bowlers in Ohio, but he also about bowling, they learned from the had success in other sports. He played bas- “I feel as though he was pushing Becoming a Team USA member is a book The Fundamentals of Bowling,” he ketball and became an All-American cor- me spiritually because that was highlight of his life, and he hopes to explained. “They were self-taught, and nerback and wide receiver in high school. one of his dreams for me was to inspire bowlers for generations to come. for them to start where they started Yet, bowling remained at the forefront. He make the team,” Williams said. — both of them were really good received a scholarship to play the sport at “The way I look at things, it’s not bowlers in the city of Los Angeles.” El Camino College in Torrance, California. He had not qualified for the United about how good I am on the lane; States Bowling Congress Team USA it’s my legacy that’s more important Williams continued the family tradition “I started focusing more on bowling Trials in more than five years, but he — what I have given back and done of hard work, putting in tremendous to make scholarship money, and set out to make the 2006 competition. in the sport,” Williams said. HOWNIKAN JULY 2020 9 Tribal members meet nearly 7,000 miles from home Mary Yox noticed another tourist wearing On a mission walking. It’s a lot of uphill for an old a Citizen Potawatomi Nation T-shirt 78-year-old woman, but I made it.” while walking down the hall of The Sea Van Veen and Yox both belong to of Galilee Hotel in Migdal, Israel. Yox churches that are part of the Roman They ended their trip with each other as stopped the individual, who happened Catholic Diocese of Tulsa. Yox, 78 well. Van Veen, Yox and their husbands to be fellow CPN member Jeannie years old, and Van Veen, 68, as a way sat together during the last mass of their Wamego Van Veen, in disbelief. After to strengthen their faith, both decided travels at Emmaus. Jesus appeared to his joking with her about the uncanniness to travel with their husbands to Israel two disciples there after his resurrection, of the situation, Yox wanted proof. through Nativity Pilgrimage in October according to the Gospel of Luke. 2019. The trip consisted of a group “She said, ‘Well, let me see your Tribal of 60 church members from eastern “You’re just moved,” Van Veen ID.’ Well, I still had my purse on Oklahoma, all looking for firsthand said. “I want to go back. I me, and I just whipped that baby connections to biblical times. would definitely go back.” out,’” Van Veen said and laughed. “Your emotions are just right on the They both found it particularly special She jokingly told Yox she wanted to edge,” Van Veen said. “You’re seeing the to share their faith and the experience see hers as well, and they stood in gospels, where the gospels took place. with another Tribal member. amazement after Yox returned from You’re hearing the gospels. We had mass “It was so exciting. Because it was her room with the CPN seal next to every day. We said the rosary every day.” like meeting a sister, and it’s the her Tribal ID number. After talking a bond. You knew you had something They met early on at their first hotel little more, they both found it ironic in common. And the fact that she and spent time together throughout how much closer they lived to one was Catholic too,” Van Veen said. another in northeast Oklahoma but ran the rest of their journey overseas. Van into each other in the Middle East. Veen and Yox told everyone what they Less than 100 miles away from each discovered and ended up meeting several other in Oklahoma, they now keep “We laughed out loud because we other Native people with them as well, in touch and eat lunch together went halfway around the world to Tribal members Jeannie Wamgeo Van Veen including a Cherokee Nation citizen. occasionally. The meeting encouraged meet another Tribal member that we Yox to continue building her stock (left) and Mary Yox explore Israel together They celebrated their Catholicism with are not related to,” Van Veen said. after meeting on their trip. (Photo provided) of knowledge about the Johnson one another as well as their ancestry. family on her Potawatomi side. As a member of the Bruno, Rhodd, Vieux time,” Yox said. “And I’m one of these Van Veen and Yox bought each other and Wamego families, Van Veen had people to think that things don’t always dinners and renewed their wedding vows “My dad and my grandma always told only met Potawatomi family members. happen by circumstance; it happens with their husbands at the Wedding us, ‘This is who you are related to; this is Her Potawatomi name is Dche Deakwe, because somebody is watching out for us.” Church at Cana, where Jesus turned who you are. You’re Potawatomi.’ Always,” Big Heart Woman. She and Yox began water into wine recorded in the Gospel Van Veen said. “And then when I find comparing genealogy webs and found They have both traveled extensively of John. They also took turns in groups people who don’t know that — they don’t no connections. Yox is a descendant of throughout their lives. Van Veen enjoys of three or four carrying the cross know their heritage and their families — Mary Ellen Johnson Scott, who lived cruises and exploring Europe in addition up the Via Dolorosa, the same path I always say, ‘You need to go back and on a CPN allotment in present-day to her and her husband’s trips throughout Jesus took on his way to crucifixion. find that out.’ That’s very important.” Oklahoma. She had never met another the United States. As an army nurse, Tribal member she wasn’t related to either. Yox lived in Germany, Washington “I guess it’s an indescribable feeling that Learn more about Potawatomi state, Texas, Philadelphia and many you get when you’re walking in the heritage and history through the “It was so unusual, such a coincidence other places. However, this trip was the same places that Christ walked, and it CPN’s Cultural Heritage Center that we would meet at that place, at that first time to Israel for both of them. was just marvelous,” Yox said. “A lot of at potawatomiheritage.com. Riggle named Gates Scholarship recipient

Citizen Potawatomi Nation member “Being named a Gates Scholar allows helps Riggle imagine the possibilities of Skyler Riggle is an exemplary student me and my family to be worry-free as his career and contributions to society. from Asher High School. He spent four far as my college debt goes, which in years of rigorous attention to coursework turn helps me to focus in on learning “My favor for more recent history comes and many extracurricular activities as and my life after college,” he said. from the clear correlation between it well as put additional focus on his future and the world today,” Riggle said. “The during his senior year. In April 2020, He plans to attend the University of incredible advancements in society, Riggle received the news that The Gates Oklahoma in Norman and participate in and even more so technology, have Scholarship organization selected him as its Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps opened the doors to so many wonderful one of 300 minority students from across program. He wants to major in computer possibilities. It excites me to know that the country for the prestigious program. science. However, Riggle also aspires to there might be so much more to discover.” attend the United States Naval Academy Aside from funding for tuition and and become a member of the Marine Riggle also participated in the other college costs, it also provides Corps. His older brother Ashley served National Honor Society, Asher High opportunities for networking, mentoring in the Army and retired as a sergeant. School Student Council, Gordon and guidance while entering the Riggle always looked up to him and his Cooper’s Leadership Academy, the workforce. The intense application selflessness. Riggle also admires the “gung- quiz bowl team and Asher’s Business process includes a thorough look at test ho, go get ‘em attitude” of the Marines. Professionals of America chapter scores, academic background, additional during high school. He volunteered activities, essays and an interview. “The mindset of ‘First to Fight’ is awe- at the Special Olympics as part of the Riggle worked on his submission inspiring, and it’s this bias for action that BPA for a couple of years, which he for the majority of his senior year. draws me to the Marines more than any calls “an experience unlike any other.” other branch,” he said. “That, and their “I tried to exhibit who I am, really,” proud history of heroism, selfless sacrifice Riggle eagerly awaits beginning college “Seeing the athletes persevere and have Riggle said. “I try to be a hard worker and war-fighting excellence makes the in fall 2020 as a Gates Scholarship a great time despite their individual and dependable. I have a very genuine Marine Corps a clear choice for me.” recipient. (Photo provided) circumstances was very inspiring. interest in my career within the Marine It really goes to show you that no Corps but with computer science as Passions and projects “I also really enjoyed the hands-on matter what happens to you, so long well. I hoped that what grabbed their portions because it allowed me to as you’re not dead, you can always attention is my personality and attitude.” Riggle’s many extracurricular become more intimate with the keep moving forward,” Riggle said. activities and enthusiasm for a design of the robot. … For me, the Debt and aspirations breadth of subjects helped his Gates greatest moment was driving the bot He holds the experiences dear to his Scholarship application stand out. for the first time. Seeing all of the heart, and he is anxious to keep adding At the beginning of 2020, approximately systems that I helped design and put to them as a Gates scholar. Riggle 45 million borrowers owed more than a His interest in computer science and together work perfectly with the code feels confident it will allow him to record $1.5 trillion in student loan debt. programming developed throughout high I put together was honestly one of the continue volunteering and work with Receiving the Gates Scholarship provides school. Riggle joined Asher High School’s greatest feelings ever,” Riggle said. other admirable organizations. relief from the stress of owing money, first robotics competition team, where and Riggle appreciates the opportunities he discovered the intersection of the Technology and problem solving also Find out more about The Gates that flourish without the added pressure. physical world and applied mathematics. fuel his interest in modern history. It Scholarship at thegatesscholarship.org. 10 JULY 2020 HOWNIKAN Fiddling ‘Haystack’ Foster builds music career on bluegrass roots

For Citizen Potawatomi Nation member often gone from his home and family to. It’s a good distraction from the Kevin “Haystack” Foster, music is a in Oklahoma for weeks or months world for a lot of people these days.” way of life. His love began at an early at a time, the passion remains. age, fueled by his musically talented Foster’s legacy dad and grandfather. At 10 years old, “Just the love for doing it — that keeps Foster heard a J.D. Crowe & The New me going in a big way. I can still just “I really want to be the best that’s ever South record, which inspired him to pick up a guitar and sit at home and done this, as far as a sidemen go,” he learn the fiddle. He has since expanded play, and it not feel like work,” he said. said. “I wouldn’t say its competition his skillset to also include the mandolin, necessarily, but I definitely have a goal to guitar, banjo, Dobro, keyboard and bass. Sweeney’s music style varies greatly be the best at whatever instrument I play.” from the Red Dirt and Texas “You know, more tools in your country groups Foster has played Foster hopes he can find a toolbox, the more jobs you can with in the past, but he enjoys the connection between his Potawatomi do,” Foster said, then laughed. opportunity to broaden his horizons. heritage and musical talents as well as create lasting change. He grew up in the tight-knit community “It’s less singer-songwriter and more of Bridge Creek, Oklahoma, where he honky-tonk kind of country music,” “I’d like to help to somehow further attended bluegrass events with family, Foster said. “It’s definitely a transition, music education and make an impact competing, jamming and sharing but it’s getting me back to playing somehow. Do something different the stage every chance he could. more straight-up country and western, that no one’s done, or find a way to Nashville fiddle. I needed something separate myself from other players After high school, he became involved new — something a little different.” that have come before me,” he said. in the Norman music scene and performed regularly at The Deli on Nothing relieves stress of life on the Potawatomi heritage While he prefers performing live, Foster Campus Corner near the University of road like picking up an instrument for wants to eventually retire from the Oklahoma, where he connected with Wilmette descendant Kevin Foster. Foster is a Wilmette family descendant, stage and focus more attention on Bryon White and Gabe Marshall of and learning about his Native working the studio circuit, putting the Red Dirt band The Damn Quails. Haystack?’ So, it’s turned into a thing heritage began years before music. his mark on every record he can. now. It’s definitely caught fire — I don’t “I first joined The Damn Quails when think I could get rid of it if I wanted to.” “I was probably 7 or 8 when I “I’ve always thought people who talk I was fresh off the farm. I think I was started going to the powwow about immortality and people searching only 20,” Foster said. The group brought Although Foster no longer performs with and everything,” he said. for immortality all throughout history, him under their wings, showing the ins The Damn Quails, he currently plays Living life on the road can make it what better way to immortalize and outs of being a full-time musician. and sings background vocals in country yourself than through art?” Foster musician Sunny Sweeny’s band. In early difficult for Foster to attend CPN The Damn Quails’ front man, White, events like Family Reunion Festival, said. “I guess that’s a little extreme, but spring 2020, he completed at tour across that’s probably the ultimate goal.” also gave Foster the nickname the Midwest with Courtney Patton. but he has interest to learn more “Haystack,” inspired by Worldwide Before the tour, he played in Jason Eady’s about his Potawatomi heritage and the Check out “Haystack” on the following Wrestling Entertainment wrestler band — who is also Patton’s husband musical roots of Potawatomi culture. albums: Out of the Birdcage by The Haystack Calhoun. The nickname — for several years. And most recently, Damn Quails, I Travel On by Jason Eady, quickly spread across the Oklahoma “I’ve felt like I’ve been pulled away from Foster formed a bluegrass group called Fairplay Hotel by Buffalo Rogers, Kyle music scene and beyond. it a little bit, but I’d like to get back into The Turnbacks with his friend and fellow Nix’s Lightning on the Mountain & Other Oklahoma musician Dillion Sampson. it,” he said. “It feels good to be active “I had nothing to do with it, but it has again and possibly lead to more things. Short Stories and Zach Aaron’s record set just taken off,” he said. “I’ll meet people, Life as a troubadour to release sometime this year called Fill tell them, ‘Hi, my name is Kevin.’ Then “Music — it’s one of the greatest Dirt Wanted. Find information on Sunny someone will come up and say, ‘Oh Foster’s music allows him to travel things on the planet. It can really help Sweeney at sunnysweeney.com, and Haystack, we need you over here,’ and and see more of the world than most people out. I mean, as far as expressing stay up to date on Foster by following they’ll be like, ‘Oh my gosh! You’re other 26-year-olds. Although he is themselves, having an outlet to go his Instagram @haystackfoster56. Bacone needs funds for historical tribal art program Bacone College in Muskogee, Oklahoma, “Specifically, Woody came in, and his “We’re dotting the i’s and crossing our holds a reputation as one of the best contribution was stained glass windows.” t’s as we send all of this paperwork higher-educational institutions for not only to the American Indian Native American artists to attend. Today, Crumbo was also known for etchings, Higher Education personnel Bacone College seeks to raise funds to paintings, jewelry and more. While but also to the Bureau of Indian properly house its vast art collections Bacone’s art program director from Education,” Cournoyer said. and restore buildings as well as honor 1938 to 1941, he worked and taught key collegiate leaders who have left a in McCombs Hall. However, the Staff are also working to educate potential permanent impression on its legacy, building’s current condition is less than students across Indian Country about including Citizen Potawatomi Nation optimal for creating and storing art. Bacone’s programs and degree options. tribal member Woody Crumbo. Funds will assist “furnishing with state- “Oklahoma has 39 tribes, and some The institution kicked off its of-the-art equipment, general refurbish students don’t want to leave their fundraising efforts on March 12 as well as renewing and restoring this tribal community, so we’re doing with the Bacone College Art Gala historical building,” Halsey said. outreach programs,” Cournoyer said. and Fundraiser in Oklahoma City. “We will break ground on the process Halsey is optimistic about the positive “I am just honored that the Oklahoma as soon as possible. Funds and support changes occurring at Bacone College, and History Center is hosting this Minisa Crumbo Halsey holds her painting will be immediately applied.” she hopes to help foster opportunities event,” said Minisa Crumbo Halsey, titled Circle of Life for the raffle auction to for Citizen Potawatomi students to Crumbo’s daughter and volunteer benefit Bacone College. (Photo provided) Plans include restoring Crumbo’s advocate for Bacone College. studio inside the building, conserving follow in her father’s footsteps. the college’s immense art collection, renovations and art conservation “Woody Crumbo paved the way so “I am expecting the gala to be very as well as Bacone’s future goals. providing adequate storage facilities as supportive of Oklahoma art and well as setting aside additional support many years ago, and he’d be so happy artists as well as Bacone College.” Crumbo for student scholarships and recruitment. to see Potawatomi attending,” she said.

Halsey and other artists completed “Woody, just like everybody else, he Future Although the gala is over, Bacone 12 by 12-inch paintings to auction at had learned different styles and College continues to raise funds, the event, and speakers addressed the different techniques that he brought Bacone College is working toward helping the institution return to its various projects across campus the funds to the school,” said Bacone College becoming an official tribal college, former glory. For information on would support, including building of Art Director Gerald Cournoyer. which requires tremendous oversight. how to assist, visit bacone.edu. HOWNIKAN JULY 2020 11 Zook novel inspired by small towns, close friends Citizen Potawatomi Nation member romances remain her favorite, whether friends and family, as well as the rest Linda Kasparek Zook always wanted to reading or watching movies. of her neighbors. Zook has always be an author. She earned her bachelor’s enjoyed living in small towns and degree in English from Northwestern “I’m a sucker for chick flicks. Honestly, if pieced the fictional Freeman together Oklahoma State University in Alva, I’m going to go watch a movie, I would from everywhere she’s lived. Oklahoma, and studied Spanish and rather do a chick flick,” Zook said. “I French as well. After three decades don’t like anything violent because a lot “I love small towns because everybody of teaching middle and high school of times, they’re too graphic for me.” takes care of everybody else,” Zook in small towns across the state, she said. “And yes, there are drawbacks She forms a compelling piece of because everybody knows everybody retired in 2011. Her love of languages work by writing what she knows; burgeoned during childhood. else’s business. … Small towns are her leading heroes show a bit of her wonderful. They really are. They can be husband, Larry, and her heroines “I’ve always been an avid reader. My aggravating, but they’re wonderful.” show some of her personality as mother was an avid reader, and I think well. She also takes inspiration from she’s the one who actually planted Winters’ experience unravels her her friends and surroundings. Zook the seed in my head that I could be a preconceived notions of small towns, and calls herself “a people watcher.” writer. It is something that has been the other characters help her heal from with me my entire life,” Zook said. painful experiences. Zook felt a natural “I’m not terribly outgoing. I’m connection while developing the doctor. actually very shy, and you put me About 10 years before she retired, she in a room full of people, and I tend “Sometimes you have an idea, and began writing short stories under to go find a corner,” she said. you start writing it, and then that the pen name Kitra Kaspar and character reveals himself or herself submitted several to magazines and The Greatest is Love by Kitra Kaspar “I used to carry a notebook, and if I to you as you write,” she said. “In other publications. She won the 2005 saw something interesting, I would other words, you don’t have all of the Oklahoma Writers’ Federation Crème relationship in front of them, helping write that down. So, I always tell my details worked out. But as you write, de la Crème award for her story Face her work stand out in the genre. friends, ‘You just be careful because you learn about your character.” to Face with a Rattlesnake, inspired by I take inspiration from everything. “There has to be a conflict, or you don’t rattlesnake hunts held on the desert-like If you have a little quirk or some have a story, but Christian authors don’t Zook intentionally included a well- land near Waynoka, Oklahoma, where idiosyncrasy, it may show up in a book.’” deal with some of those harder issues. rounded Potawatomi, Brad Freeman, to she has lived for more than 25 years. And we live in a world where those issues assist the lead character while growing While Zook wrote romances prior happen all the time,” Zook said. “I felt and learning about life and themselves. “That was a wonderful thing,” Zook said. to The Greatest is Love, the novel was it was important to tackle some of the her first attempt adding a Christian “That told me that, yes, I can write. I can problems not typically addressed.” “I just feel like it’s important to spotlight do it. I have the ability to tell a story.” element. It felt more fluid than Natives and portray them in a positive working in the broader genre, and The Greatest is Love light,” Zook said. “But my characters Her aspirations grew, and she began she knew the style and lessons of the will always be caring, loving and giving working on a book following her books served a bigger purpose. As part of a trilogy, Zook’s first novel people. If I can help change negative retirement. After four to five months tells the story of young doctor Joey Native stereotypes, I want to do my part.” of hard work writing and editing, “It’s my witness. It’s my way of Winters. Raised in Oklahoma City, she Zook completed The Greatest is Love, telling people about God’s love and moves to rural Freeman, Oklahoma, Currently, she continues to later published in August 2014. God’s grace. The theme throughout after receiving her medical license craft her second novel with the these books is there’s no hurt to work for two years as part of the same passion for her ideas. Methods and inspirations that God can’t heal,” she said. fictional Doctors for Rural Oklahoma Program. In exchange for her time, the “I just have a strong belief that this is what The Bourassa family descendant has Zook pairs the romantic portions of town covers some of Winters’ medical I’m supposed to do, and God made it always read romances, drawn in by “a her plots with more serious themes school debts. She tries to convince happen,” Zook said. “That’s my belief.” good-looking guy, a beautiful girl and such as sexual abuse and drugs. The herself two years will pass quickly. a happy ending.” She occasionally characters struggle with internal The Greatest is Love is available on dips into detective novels or reads dialogues that expand beyond the “will Throughout the novel, she meets Brad Amazon as both an e-book and a authors like Mitch Albom; however, they or won’t they” of the potential Freeman, a Potawatomi lawyer, his paperback at cpn.news/zookbook. Citizen Potawatomi Nation land management and sovereignty As the director of the Citizen Potawatomi ownership got down to where it was self-governance. … And it puts the land the department, all of their activities Nation Real Estate Services Department, unmanageable in the ownership, then in an ownership status that it would be relate to that trust responsibility that Charles Meloy oversees the day-to-day the bureau took over the responsibility very difficult for a future short-sighted we have compacted from the bureau. management of Tribal land. He sat for the management of the land, and administration to dispose of it. It’s And we oversee and manage all of those down with the Hownikan to discuss then CPN subsequently compacted difficult to sell once it’s put into trust.” trust lands that would fall under that how CPN uses its land today and that management responsibility from trust responsibility of the bureau. And What are some main ways how the department functions. the bureau. Historically, CPN had this relates not only to the individual jurisdiction over all of the 500,000 acres. CPN uses its land today? How has the amount of allotments that are left from the 1887 Now, our jurisdictional area where we “Of the total land base that we’re allotments, but it relates to the land that land CPN owns changed have total sovereignty — total authority from the 1800s to now? responsible for, part of that land is we put into trust now. Then, the other — is on those parcels of land that are in given over to governmental uses, half of the department relates to the “When the land was owned in common, trust for the Citizen Potawatomi Nation. administration, the reunion grounds non-trust lands, which as we purchase we had approximately 500,000 acres. And today, that totals about 14,000 acres.” and those kinds of things. Part of the new properties, they’re purchased in fee. After allotment, the Tribe wound up, What does putting land into land is given over to our enterprises — ... And we start that process of putting through individual ownerships, with trust mean, and why would the grocery store, the golf course, the them into trust. And when we decide about 250,000 acres. Over the 120 year the Nation want to do that? casinos. Part of the land, which hasn’t what it’s going to be used for, typically period, through six generations, the been developed as such with a building the management of that piece of land is ownership of those allotments have “Putting land into trust changes the and roads, etc., still is in agricultural turned over to whatever department is been divided down to where currently ownership status from ‘owned by the use. We row crop, and a lot of it is in going to occupy it. And they take over there are only about 77 allotments Citizen Potawatomi Nation’ to ‘owned hay production. When we buy a new and are responsible from that point. left, and some of those allotments by the United States of America in trust parcel of land, first thing we do is solve We’re also expanding our ownership may have as many as 100 or 150 for the Citizen Potawatomi Nation.’ any problems that may be on that land. into those original trust allotments, undivided owners in the allotment.” The first and most immediate thing (If) there are environmental issues, we and any individual Tribal member that happens is that that strips away all take care of those. (If) fences are in who owns in an allotment and who is How does CPN manage the wrong place, we have dilapidated local and state control, and this is why interested in selling their undivided its land today? buildings and so forth, we take care of we’re able to game and do a variety of ownership, the Tribe will buy it. We those. And then we try to get the land “The land today is managed depending things on that land. Secondly, once into some type of economic production.” always pay more than appraised value. on the ownership of the land. And it goes into trust, it becomes part of And that way, it’s added to the Tribal when I say ownership, it’s the way the the land over which we have total How does the Real Estate Services land base, and it’s more easily managed.” land is deeded. The original allotments jurisdiction and total sovereignty. Now, Department divide work? are held in trust, and the (Bureau of the important reasons for doing this is For more information about the Indian Affairs) has trust responsibility number one — it’s an expression of our “The department is basically divided Real Estate Services Department, toward those allotments. When the sovereignty. It’s an expression of our into two gross categories. One part of visit cpn.news/realestate. 12 JULY 2020 HOWNIKAN Medtronic director’s leadership helps company establish scholarship for Native Americans Ryan Thompson felt inspired one morning The Medtronic pacemaker also auto- in late spring 2018. While driving to work matically adjusts to Tate’s needs, which at Medtronic in Boulder, Colorado, the provides the Lewis family peace of mind. local NPR radio station covered a story about Colorado State University police “I know it means so much to my mom that removed two Mohawk teenagers that she’s not having to constantly make from a campus tour. Another student’s sure his lips aren’t turning blue like she did mother had called the authorities, before he got the pacemaker,” she said. alleging the Mohawk teens were acting suspicious due to their appearance. Connections “That was the moment that I said, ‘What Although the COVID-19 pandemic has am I doing today is probably not enough, required Medtronic employees to put in and is there something I could do within even more time and effort as one of the our company?’” Thompson asked. leading ventilator manufactures worldwide, the company’s American Indian Thompson serves as Medtronic’s senior Employee Resource Group participants director of clinical therapy training remained dedicated to their mission. and oversees the company’s minimally invasive therapies group in North and “We had to execute on the scholarship,” South America. He knew Medtronic had 2020 Medtronic scholarship recipient Lilly Lewis visits the CPN Eagle Aviary. Thompson said. “We committed to these internal employee organizations for a individuals, and we couldn’t back out variety of backgrounds, but he realized group also seeks to increase awareness of the family, and I saw firsthand how big on that. We can’t say, ‘Hey, because of nothing existed for Native Americans. certain diseases that disproportionately of a difference having someone who COVID-19, we can’t pay you,’ or ‘We impact Native American populations. knows how to show empathy and care don’t have the bandwidth for this.’” Looking for solutions, he spoke with co- for patients can make,” Lewis said. “So The moment Thompson called workers and garnered enough interest to Based on these ideals, participants from a young age, I knew that would Lewis to inform her she received the establish the American Indian Employee created an annual scholarship program be something that I wanted to do.” Resource Group. Its main mission is that is open to Native Americans scholarship had special significance. to foster community and awareness. pursuing degrees in science, technology, To apply for the scholarship, Lewis The employee group met its first engineering and math as well as business. sent in letters of recommendation and long-term goal despite the pandemic, “What we are trying to go out and achieve wrote an essay on how she related to and the news relieved some of Lewis’ is decreasing the disparity in higher The Medtronic American Indian Employ- the company’s mission statement. stress so she could focus on finishing education for high-potential Native ee Resource Group has awarded several the spring 2020 semester strong. American students,” Thompson said. scholarships to deserving students, in- “Medtronic is about taking away pain cluding Citizen Potawatomi Nation tribal and restoring health and extending life of “I just felt like a weight was lifted off my The organization focuses on member and 2019 Potawatomi Leader- people who are using their products, so shoulders immediately for financing ways Medtronic can recruit ship Program participant Lilly Lewis. the rest of undergrad,” she said. younger Native students. that was a pretty easy one for me because Scholarship recipient of my little brother,” she explained. While on the phone, Thompson and “If there’s not a lot of highly-qualified Lewis’ brother has a pacemaker Lewis also learned they are related through (Native American) candidates to come Lewis learned about the Medtronic Potawatomi Chief Abram Burnett. into a medical device world, then you’re scholarship through the CPN manufactured by Medtronic. She not going to have a lot of American Department of Education. After reading appreciates the company’s dedication “Not sure where in the family tree she Indians in that space,” he said. “If we the criteria, she decided to apply. Lewis to advancement, especially after an is, but it’s pretty cool that a connection can help educate them in the sciences, is a junior studying neuroscience at the experience in California last year. had been made,” Thompson said. providing the education that they need to University of Texas at Dallas. The health “His pacemaker wasn’t working properly, be successful … we can increase that pool care sector and Medtronic’s impact on 2021 application of candidates with a targeted approach.” her family inspired her desire to become a and from San Francisco, his doctors physician’s assistant. Her father is a cancer at Medical City in Dallas were able to To inform Native American students na- As a medical device company, Medtronic survivor, and her younger brother Tate work on his pacemaker in San Francisco tionwide of the 2021 scholarship opportu- specializes in creating technological Lewis has hypoplastic left heart syndrome. from here (in Texas), which I think it’s nity, Medtronic established a partnership solutions for many conditions like diabetes so incredible that when you have proper with the American Indian Science and En- and heart disease that impact Native “I definitely found a lot — even as a technology like that. My parents didn’t gineering Society. Find the 2021 Medtron- Americans at much higher rates than kid — of comfort from the nurses and have to come home immediately. No ic scholarship qualifications and applica- non-Native counterparts. The employee doctors that would just do so much for one even stressed too much,” Lewis said. tion on the AISES website at aises.org.

Court continued... Mary Powell is a Melott descendant, and What are your key roles? “As far as the court here, I am very prior to working with the court, she appreciative. I am very thankful. The was the greeter and receptionist at the “My key role is to be here every day two court clerks, and the Tribe has got also through the CPN re-integration Cultural Heritage Center for seven years. and keep those documents scanned two of the best court clerks; you can’t get program to help defendants with em- and organized and getting the Since the 1970s, she also held positions any better. But of course, I think they ployment and community sentencing work done so that everybody else have a good scanner, too,” she chuckled. options. All of these are important to at FireLake Corner Store and oversaw the can do theirs. It takes all of us.” reduce criminal recidivism rates and Nation’s first federally funded community What is the hardest help the Tribal and local community.” health representative program. Although What is your favorite part of your job? Powell tried her hand at retirement part of your job? in 2014, the fellowship provided by “I can’t really say that I’ve got a hard part. working at the Nation inspired her to “My favorite aspect is just getting up I am always afraid I’m going to be behind enter the workforce once more, and and being thankful that the good Lord and not keep up, but I am comfortable let me wake up and gave me the ability in 2018, she accepted her current in my skin. When you’re comfortable to come to work. He saw fit to let me position as the court scanning clerk. in your own skin, you don’t have those wake up this day to let me do my job. kinds of fears. You just let them go.” What does a day at work “I feel a lot of pride. Because when I went look like for you? What does your to take the community health represen- work mean to you? tative training back then, I had to go to “After the judge signs off, I take the Tuscan, Arizona, to be trained. I knew “My work means a lot to me. Not only (documents) and scan them. There’s a file nothing really about the Tribe, although I does it help with my livelihood, it gets for everybody that’s gone through our served on the business committee. I went me out amongst people. Although when court system. But I scan that document to the library and looked it up, and the I’m scanning, I am not a chatty Cathy, and save what the document is about. only thing that I could tell the class in Tus- but it means a lot to me. It really does, I’ll put the date and court minute. It can was our (CPN’s) famous artist Woody and the opportunity to learn something copies everything, and sometimes, Crumbo. I got up and talked about new. My piece of advice is always be there can be a lot of them. Especially Crumbo. That’s all we had. We didn’t have learning. Always learn something new when they have civil cases and juvenile anything. We didn’t even have the little and never feel that you can’t do it because Mary Powell, court scanning clerk or custody. It gets pretty busy.” white trailer. I worked out of my home. can’t never could do anything.” HOWNIKAN JULY 2020 13 Dockry moves from the forest to the classroom Citizen Potawatomi Nation member “Forestry or cutting trees to make lumber Michael Dockry has spent his career isn’t necessarily a bad thing. I want in the forest — teaching about them, people to understand that,” Dockry planning them, sustaining them and said. “It has to be done in a good way, interviewing people about them. After and it has to be grounded in making nearly 20 years with the U.S. Forest sure that what we’re doing helps the Service, the Slavin family descendant forests become healthier, helps the accepted his current position as assistant forest regenerate, and that we’re not just professor in the Forest Resources abusing the forest to get the wood out.” Department at the University of Minnesota for the 2019-20 academic year. Next generation of foresters “I thought, ‘Look, if I can go and As a career path, forestry includes educate the forestry and natural everything from interviewing people resource students before they get and learning culture, biology, geographic their professional jobs, that’s going planning, maintenance, data collection to have a way bigger impact than me and analysis, and computer science. out there trying to work with single Dockry wishes more people knew about offices or groups of people,’” he said. the wide breadth of opportunities available. Dockry became interested in forestry as He started a collaboration with the a freshman in high school. He loved the Tribal member Michael Dockry leads a tour of the Menominee Indian Reservation American Indian studies program at the outdoors and canoeing, but he learned and explains the tribe’s approaches to sustainable forestry. (Photo by DKakkak) University of Minnesota after accepting about forestry as a profession when he his current position. As an unexplored participated in a Wisconsin Department “I think we move the conversations spent his time as part of the Forest avenue of academia, Dockry believes of Natural Resources program for forward and vice versa. When we have Service learning those values. the combination of forestry and Native students. He later graduated with his foresters talking that aren’t understanding American studies holds practicality doctorate in forestry from the University where the land came from. Which “I got to know and understand how they and significance for the workforce. of Wisconsin Madison in 2012. treaty was signed, what were the tribes think about forestry and sustainability that signed, what are those tribes today, ... where we’re incorporating human “Everything that we’re doing in “I feel connected to the forest, and I’m what are the rights that were retained in beings as part of the environment, natural resources has implications learning to understand my relationship these treaties, what are our obligations we’re thinking about relationships for American Indian studies, and a with trees and other beings in the forest,” when we’re managing this land — that with all the different beings that are lot of the scholarship that they do he said. “I think that’s what I’ve been typically isn’t talked about,” Dockry said. held in the forest, we’re thinking about has ecological land relationships with kind of going through my whole life, and a spiritual relationship,” he said. natural resources at the core,” he said. when I’m working with different tribal His experience shows that a diverse group communities and understanding different is more likely to make well-informed As a member of the Forest Service, “There’s a huge desire for the non- understandings of their relation to the decisions benefiting everyone involved. Dockry worked with the Great Lakes Native students because they realize, forest, that just renews my interest.” That includes not only discussions Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission too, they’re going to get a job — if about forestry but related subjects in 2009. The groups developed new it’s a state job or federal job, maybe Native knowledge and voices such as inequality, environmental data points and observation sets when a tribal job in natural resources — if justice, climate change and more. collecting information on birch bark they don’t know anything about tribal A large portion of Dockry’s job with trees aside from height, diameter and treaty rights and natural resource the Forest Service, and one personally “We need tribal voices in those discussions other conventional measurements. The management, they’re at a disadvantage.” significant to him as a CPN member, because we have been excluded from new sets included moss growth, trunk involved him teaching other foresters those conversations. … At a minimum, shape and bend, and flakiness of the bark. Dockry currently teaches seven students about the federal government’s trust we have the tribes engaged in our land in his graduate-level program. Native responsibility to work with tribes when management decisions because we need “Just looking at the forest differently students seek him out on campus surveying and planning for work on them to formulate solutions because helped us develop data sampling as a professor to understand their Native American land. That process these problems are too hard for just, let’s that now we can use in order to help thoughts and creative ideas with an begins by building relationships with say, foresters to handle,” Dockry said. maintain birch, help manage birch Indigenous background and experience. Indigenous nations and considering trees, so that tribal gatherers are going Ultimately, he hopes to prepare the their experiences from the start. More than once in his career, to be able to gather different types of next generation of foresters to include fellow Forest Service employees birch trees for their own reasons,” such Tribes throughout their careers. “That was a hard thing because not a lot described learning from tribes as as canoe building, Dockry said. of people learn that in forestry school. a “transformational” experience. “I’m sort of thinking, if I have 80 For the past 20 years, it’s me trying to Mimicry done in the right way redirects students per year for 10 years, that’s 800 teach people. And finally, an opportunity Ecological mimicry and manages harm placed on these students that are going to know how came up here at the university ecosystems by human interaction, such to work with tribes. And so I got really Dockry suggested ecological mimicry to start a tribal natural resource as controlling wildfires, mass harvesting excited about that aspect of it,” he said. management program,” Dockry said. as one of the most environmentally and more. The Forest Service, working friendly and effective ways to with tribes and other organizations, “They really keep me on my toes Having cultural and historical knowledge maintain forest habitats as well as creates solutions that implement and make me want to do it of a piece of land makes it easier to harvesting resources. Many Indigenous age diversity, clear grasslands for because I’m doing it for them.” create Indigenous partnerships when agricultural methods emulate nature seedlings and allow Native Americans planning use and preservation; however, in a symbiotic relationship between to care for the land in traditional To read more of Michael Dockry’s forestry workers often lack information. the earth and humans, and Dockry ways passed down for generations. work, visit mikedockry.net.

The Hownikan is published by the Citizen Potawatomi Nation and is Hownikan mailed free to enrolled Tribal members. Subscriptions for nonmembers 1601 S. Gordon Cooper Drive, Shawnee, Oklahoma are $10 a year in the United States and $12 in foreign countries. The Hownikan is a member of the Native American Journalists Association. CPN Executive Committee Reprint permission is granted with publication credit to the Hownikan. Tribal Chairman: John “Rocky” Barrett Vice-Chairman: Linda Capps Editorials/letters are subject to editing and must contain traceable address. Secretary/Treasurer: D. Wayne Trousdale All correspondence should be directed to Hownikan, Editorial staff 1601 S. Gordon Cooper Drive, Shawnee, OK 74801 Writer/editor: Jennifer Bell Page/graphic designer: Trey DeLonais Questions: [email protected] or 800-880-9880 Writer/editor: John VanPool Graphic designer: Emily Guleserian Address changes should be sent to Tribal Rolls, Writer: Mary Belle Zook Photographer: Garett Fisbeck Writer: Paige Willett Editor: Mindee Duffell 1601 S. Gordon Cooper Drive, Shawnee, OK 74801 14 JULY 2020 HOWNIKAN Legislator organizes USDA Farmers to Families program for Citizen Potawatomi members in Kansas While Americans quarantined this spring and volunteers handed them out for take boxes to the elders due to the coronavirus, agricultural the first time at the beginning of June. in Tribal housing in producers found themselves with Rossville and deliver to enormous surpluses of food typically “In the produce box, there was like three those they see during used by restaurants, event venues potatoes, three apples, two tomatoes, as home care visits. and other closed businesses. well as a couple of oranges, zucchini, and a bag of carrots and two onions. It was “I think that with this The United States Department of an assortment, but as you know, it’s a pandemic, they’re Agriculture began the $1.4 billion staple that people need,” Boursaw said. finding out that we Farmers to Families Food Box Program need to provide for our in April as part of the Coronavirus Community own people with the Food Assistance Program to get some food that is produced of those surpluses to citizens. Citizen The broader Rossville community here in the United Potawatomi Nation District 4 Legislator came together to make District 4’s States,” Kinderknecht Jon Boursaw organized the Tribe’s participation possible. On Saturday, said. “We just have to participation as a local branch to help May 30, the Director of Food Services get it distributed out to distribute that food to Potawatomi at the Topeka Rescue Mission Mike the people somehow, so throughout northeastern Kansas. Shinkle contacted Boursaw and asked that we don’t have to buy if the Tribe would participate. On the internationally or ship out. “We’ve all seen the news reports and the following Monday morning, the Tribal We can sustain ourselves pictures of farmers dumping milk and legislator met with Kinderknecht, CPN here if we want to.” plowing the vegetable farms under and Rossville housing manager Lyman all of that. That’s what this program is Boursaw and housing maintenance The Farmers to Families all about, is helping those farmers and technician Mike Martin to ask their CPN employees (left to right) Mike Martin, Sharron Long program is free and open individuals out, plus helping our Tribal opinion on the Nation’s involvement. and Tracy Kinderknecht work to unload a refrigerated truck to all CPN members in members out. It’s just a big program for They all supported the idea and prepared and distribute food to Tribal citizens. (Photo provided) the Topeka and Rossville all of America,” Tracey Kinderknecht for a trial run in less than a week. They areas with no eligibility said. She is the CPN Senior Support rented a refrigerated truck to haul the Lynette Hudson, wife of Tribal member requirements. The program will continue Network RN in Rossville with experience food from Topeka to Rossville, which Kevin Hudson, gathered a dozen through the end of August with pick up on these types of projects and greatly remains the single cost of the operation. local 4-H’ers to volunteer for the first on Thursdays at the CPN Community assisted Boursaw with planning distribution day. The team handed Center, 806 Nishnabe Trail, Rossville, and organizing the distribution. “We bring that food out here to Rossville, out 76 produce boxes, and the number KS 66533. Boxes must be requested which is about 25 miles from the rescue quickly rose by word of mouth to more by Tuesday at 4:30 p.m. each week Each week, 300 distribution centers mission, to our parking lot. And we than 100 by the end of the week. The by calling 785-584-6171 or emailing across the country distribute boxes will start distributing that to the Tribal program serves seven counties around [email protected]. filled with produce, dairy and meat to members and whoever has signed up for Topeka, home to an estimated 400 to nonprofits and other community entities it. They’ll be coming to the parking lot 500 CPN families. Kinderknecht, and to give to citizens. Boursaw, CPN staff to pick up their boxes,” Boursaw said. her co-worker CNA Sharron Long, also CPN cancels 2020 FireLake Fireflight Balloon Festival and Outdoor Nation Expo Out of an abundance of caution and “CPNHS medical leadership continues “Our public health team has been “We are deeply disappointed that we concern for public safety, the Citizen to advise CPN officials, including event providing expert advice since late have to cancel the Outdoor Nation Potawatomi Nation has announced organizers, on implementing mitigation February, before Oklahoma even Expo due to COVID-19, but we the cancellation of the 2020 FireLake strategies to protect the public,” Dr. Vas- had its first confirmed COVID-19 believe it is in the best interest for the Fireflight Balloon Festival and Outdoor cellaro said. “We feel hosting a large public case,” said Tribal Chairman John safety of our community,” said Rick gathering like the Balloon Festival, which Gage, owner, Outdoor Nation Expo. Nation Expo. The event was scheduled “Rocky” Barrett. “Canceling a beloved typically draws thousands of people, many community event is disappointing, but “We look forward to seeing everyone for Aug. 7-8, 2020, in Shawnee. The from out of state, is not in the community’s we trust their guidance and direction in 2021 and hope that everyone will event will return Aug. 13-14, 2021. best interest. While this was a difficult deci- on keeping everyone safe. We’re continue to enjoy the outdoors.” sion, we know it is the right one to make.” already looking forward to next year.” The festival was canceled on counsel from CPN Health People registered for the 5K Fun Run The Outdoor Nation Expo, which Services Chief Medical Officer or balloon rides can receive a refund by is held in conjunction with the George A. Vascellaro, D.O. emailing [email protected]. balloon festival, is also canceled. HOWNIKAN JULY 2020 15 Anderson family history

The Citizen Potawatomi Nation’s Cultural After becoming a widow, Mary Anderson had seven children together. That same Heritage Center provides resources to keep and their three children relocated to year, Anna Marie’s sister, Sophie Mueller, CPN history safe and accessible for gener- Council Bluffs, Iowa, to join other moved from Germany to America, and ations to come. One key way the Nation removed Potawatomi. Once President four years later, Sophie married Charles’s does this is through the CHC’s archives. Andrew Jackson signed the Indian younger brother, John Anderson Jr. To highlight some of the CHC’s archi- Removal Act of 1830, the government val holdings, the Hownikan is featuring began forcibly removing Potawatomi John Jr. represented the Tribe, working photographs and family history for every and other Native Americans west. with Congress and the federal government founding Citizen Potawatomi family. If to get Potawatomi allotments in fee simple, interested in assisting preservation efforts Mary passed away in 1848, and her which gave Tribal members ownership by providing copies of Citizen Potawatomi and John Anderson’s children moved to and allowed Citizen Potawatomi to sell family photographs, documents and more, Silver Lake, Kansas, in 1851 along with their properties without approval of please contact the CHC at 405-878- 5830. their grandmother, Archange Tremblay. U.S. governmental entities. Although John Anderson Jr. attended school in difficult, he persisted, and most Citizen Anderson Westport, Missouri, but the desire to Potawatomi received titles to their continue the family’s blacksmithing land. John Jr. and his children took The Anderson family’s Potawatomi roots traditions inspired him to learn the allotments near Shawnee where he began in 18th century Peoria, Illinois, trade. John Anderson Jr. returned to resided for the remainder of his life. when a Potawatomi woman named Silver Lake in 1862 and married fellow Mary C. Tremblay married a blacksmith Potawatomi Elizabeth Hardin. He The Anderson family and descendants named John Anderson. They had three worked as a blacksmith, and during the spread to various cities and towns children: John Charles, Mary Ann and Civil War, cared for military mules. across the United States and world Peter. John Anderson’s family settled in Mary Anderson Bourbonnais’ Tribal at-large. However, their influence and downtown Peoria, where he partnered Elizabeth (Hardin) Anderson’s younger leadership legacy continues today in the legacy remains as one of the largest with William Tobey to establish a plow sister Julia married Peter (Pete) Nation’s tenacity to serve its citizens. Citizen Potawatomi families today. manufacturing facility. The duo perfected Anderson, and Pete’s sister, Mary Ann, plows specific to tilling prairie soil. Their including the notorious John Bly. He If interested in helping preserve Citizen married Antoine Bourbonnais. In held a reputation for stealing horses product’s popularity prompted Anderson 1863, they received allotted land in Potawatomi history and culture by and highway robbery and eluded and Tobey to change from making them Kansas through the Treaty of 1861. providing copies of family photographs, by hand to constructing them with conviction. To end the Bly Gang’s spree, documents and more, contact the Cultural steam machinery. John passed before In 1871, they were part of the first a judge issued arrest warrants for the Heritage Center at 405-878- 5830. the business reached its highest success. caravan of Potawatomi to settle the new Bly Gang on Christmas Day 1890 for Potawatomi lands in Indian Territory. stealing cattle and selling whiskey. Three Andersons, including Pete, John Sherriff DeFord deputized Pete’s friend and Mary Anderson Bourbonnais, Frank Gault, and Gault swore Pete in established a settlement called Pleasant as a deputy to help arrest the Bly Gang. Prairie in present-day southern Pottawatomie County, Oklahoma. Mary Christmas 1890, Pete and Gault’s party Anderson Bourbonnais was very involved set out on horses to find Bly, and they with the Shawnee Mission. She became came upon the outlaws butchering cattle the first Sunday school superintendent in a field. Gunfire quickly ensued, and in the county and often wrote letters the officers dismounted and moved campaigning to Congress and the federal toward the source. A bullet struck Pete government on behalf of the Tribe. Anderson, killing him instantly. Pete’s children then lived at the Sacred Heart Pete and Julia (Hardin) Anderson eventu- Mission until a fire destroyed it in 1901, ally settled near Wanette, Oklahoma. They and a local attorney married to Mary had seven children, but Julia passed away Anderson Daniels, John and Elizabeth after birthing their youngest in 1886. Pete Anderson’s daughter, and her husband then moved and farmed his allotment in became legal guardians over Pete’s children. the northwestern part of the Potawatomi reservation near present-day Choctaw. John and Elizabeth Anderson’s oldest son, Charles D. Anderson, was born in Elizabeth Hardin and Before statehood, Indian Territory was 1863. In 1889, Charles married German- grandson John Anderson. a haven for cattle rustlers and outlaws, born Anna Marie Mueller, and they Pete Anderson’s wife Julia Anderson. 16 JULY 2020 HOWNIKAN FAQ — Citizen Potawatomi Nation COVID-19 Assistance Program Phase 1 What can these funds be used for? The CARES Act requires that the payments from the Coronavirus Relief Fund only be used to cover expenses that: 1. are necessary expenditures incurred due to the public health emergency with respect to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID–19); 2. were not accounted for in the budget most recently approved as of March 27, 2020 (the date of enactment of the CARES Act) for the State or government; and 3. were incurred during the period that begins on March 1, 2020, and ends on Dec. 30, 2020.

The CARES Act provides that payments from the Fund may only be used to cover costs that: 1. are necessary expenditures incurred due to the public health emergency with respect to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID–19); 2. were not accounted for in the budget most recently approved as of March 27, 2020 (the date of enactment of the CARES Act) for the State or government; and 3. were incurred during the period that begins on March 1, 2020, and ends on December 30, 2020.1 potawatomi.org/wp-content/uploads/Coronavirus-Relief-Fund.pdf P. 1

How was the money allotted? The U.S. Department of the Treasury determined that it is reasonable and appropriate to allocate payments based on a formula that considers population data, employment data and expenditure data. For purposes of the payments based on Tribal population, the Treasury used the CPN population data from the Department of Housing and Urban Development in connection with the Indian Housing Block Grant program. The HUD formula used a population of 17,700 for CPN’s distribution. The Nation’s current Tribal member population is more than 35,000. You can read the full statements from U.S. Treasury on allocations methods at cpn.news/crft and cpn.news/tamd.

Am I eligible for the program if I’ve already received other financial assistance? This fund will assist CPN tribal members with financial relief of up to $1,200 per eligible individual, and Tribal member-owned businesses can receive financial relief of up to $5,000 per eligible business. The funds are meant to cover losses that have not already been supplemented in some other way. For example, financial support received by the Tribal member from the following must be considered according to federal guidance when evaluating need: • Paycheck Protection Program • 2020 federal stimulus payment • Unemployment benefits • CPN Workforce & Social Services assistance • Other income •

However, as noted below, recipients may not use payments from the Fund to cover expenditures for which they will receive reimbursement. home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/Coronavirus-Relief-Fund-Frequently-Asked-Questions.pdf P. 2

Recipients will need to consider the applicable restrictions and limitations of such other sources of funding. In addition, expenses that have been or will be reimbursed under any federal program, such as the reimbursement by the federal government pursuant to the CARES Act of contributions by States to State unemployment funds, are not eligible uses of Fund payments. home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/Coronavirus-Relief-Fund-Frequently-Asked-Questions.pdf P. 2

Can I apply for support both as an individual and as a business? Yes, you may apply as an individual and a business, unless your business is your sole source of income. If your business income is your sole source of income, then you should apply as a business only.

What if I incurred new/additional expenses because of COVID-19? The program is only for qualifying Tribal members and Tribal member-owned business that have lost income as a result of COVID-19. Loss of income must be verified and must be attributable to COVID-19. Individuals and businesses will be required to supply supporting documentation to substantiate validity. Federal guidance does not allow for distributions for increased expenses, only for a loss of income.

May recipients use Fund payments to provide emergency financial assistance to individuals and families directly impacted by a loss of income due to the COVID-19 public health emergency? Yes, if a government determines such assistance to be a necessary expenditure. Such assistance could include, for example, a program to assist individuals with payment of overdue rent or mortgage payments to avoid eviction or foreclosure or unforeseen financial costs for funerals and other emergency individual needs. Such assistance should be structured in a manner to ensure as much as possible, within the realm of what is administratively feasible, that such assistance is necessary. home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/Coronavirus-Relief-Fund-Frequently-Asked-Questions.pdf P. 5

How quickly will I receive the money? After your application is reviewed and approved you can expect to receive a check in about two weeks.

What is the application deadline? Funds are only available through December 2020 and are likely to be distributed quickly. Applications are processed as they’re received, and funds are only available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Do all citizens automatically receive a check? Why can’t we issue per capita or stimulus payments? This is not a per capita or stimulus payment, and it is not available to all CPN tribal members. These funds are meant to help individuals and businesses financially impacted by COVID-19 who can demonstrate unmet losses. Guidelines from the U.S. Treasury state that payments can provide emergency assistance for a loss of income “due to” COVID-19.

Must a State, local, or tribal government require applications to be submitted by businesses or individuals before providing assistance using payments from the Fund? Governments have discretion to determine how to tailor assistance programs they establish in response to the COVID-19 public health emergency. However, such a program should be structured in such a manner as will ensure that such assistance is determined to be necessary in response to the COVID-19 public health emergency and otherwise satisfies the requirements of the CARES Act and other applicable law. For example, a per capita payment to residents of a particular jurisdiction without an assessment of individual need would not be an appropriate use of payments from the Fund. home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/Coronavirus-Relief-Fund-Frequently-Asked-Questions.pdf P. 8

If U.S. Treasury believes tribal governments distributed funds in violation of this guidance, it can conduct inspector general investigations into the tribal government’s CRVF processes. If violations are determined to have occurred, the tribal government will be forced to pay back all funds, with interest, to the federal government. Tribal officials may also face investigations and federal prosecutions for illegal use of federal funds. Tribal members who received funds that Treasury determines were in violation of their guidance may also face audits from the Internal Revenue Service and recoupment of funds.

If a government has transferred funds to another entity, from which entity would the Treasury Department seek to recoup the funds if they have not been used in a manner consistent with section 601(d) of the Social Security Act? The Treasury Department would seek to recoup the funds from the government that received the payment directly from the Treasury Department. State, territorial, local and Tribal governments receiving funds from Treasury should ensure that funds transferred to other entities, whether pursuant to a grant program or otherwise, are used in accordance with section 601(d) of the Social Security Act as implemented in the Guidance. home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/Coronavirus-Relief-Fund-Frequently-Asked-Questions.pdf P. 10

How can I apply? You can find the application online at potawatomi.org/cares or you may call 405-275-3121 to be mailed an application. HOWNIKAN JULY 2020 17

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The Citizen Potawatomi Nation’s Cultural signed the 1821 Treaty of Chicago. The On Nov. 2, 1872, Helen married Charles Heritage Center provides resources to treaty ceded almost all Potawatomi land Richard Rhodd in Rossville, Kansas, and keep CPN history safe and accessible in southwestern Michigan. In 1826, they had seven children together: Viola for generations to come. One key way Ashkum signed the Treaty of Mississinewa, Alice, Ida Florence, Noah J., David C., the Nation does this is through the and in 1832, the Treaty of Tippecanoe. Maggie, Thomas and Charles Daniel. CHC’s archives. To highlight some This established an official reservation of the CHC’s archival holdings, the for Ashkum and his band, but his name John J.’s first wife was Pekeshnoquah Hownikan is featuring photographs and later appeared on several treaties that and second, Mary Vasser. Harrison family history for every founding Citizen revoked Potawatomi land rights without and his wife Mary had one daughter, Potawatomi family. If interested in his knowledge, including the Treaty Madeline, and Cassie and her assisting preservation efforts by providing of Potawatomi Mills. While getting husband Alex Leonard had two copies of Citizen Potawatomi family annuity payments, Chief Ashkum and daughters, Lucretia and Lizzie. photographs, documents and more, please other Potawatomi leaders learned that Zora had three children with Evanes contact the CHC at 405-878-5830. their land ownership status changed. Doud: Grace, Leroy and Ernest. Acton The Tribal leaders and Ashkum appealed Mary Louise married Cornelius the treaties to federal agents, stating O’Marra, and they had four kids Some records indicate the Acton that they did not agree to cede more together: James, Patrick, Katie and Potawatomi family connection begins with land and that the president would not John. Mary Louise’s twin sister Julia Chief Ashkum (More and More) — Chris- approve. Sadly, their pleas fell on deaf had three children with her husband: tian name James Acton Sr. — and his two ears. In 1838, hundreds of Potawatomi, George, Maggie and Laura Davis. marriages to first wife Madeline Oscum including Ashkum, were forced to leave Mary Louise Acton O'Marra, twin The allotment process proved and second, Angeline Bellaire, Azhnick. their homelands on the Trail of Death. sister to Mary Louise O'Marra, daughter of James Acton Jr. unsuccessful for most Potawatomi due He was born in the late 1700s and served English artist George Winter captured to multiple factors, including the federal the Tribe as an important headman and sketches of Potawatomi like Ashkum and Potawatomi land for commerce and government’s failure to uphold all the orator during the 1800s, addressing other Native Americans living in the the railroad, the federal government treaty’s agreements. In 1867, the Tribe crowds about the negative repercussions Great Lakes region, and he chronicled crafted the Treaty of 1861 that allowed signed a new treaty and purchased land the Potawatomi faced losing their the beginning of the Trail of Death the Tribe an opportunity to own land in present-day Oklahoma. Numerous homelands in the Great Lakes. Every through his artwork. Winter’s sketches individually through allotments rather Acton descendants moved from speech Ashkum made included remain the only known first-hand visual than communally. The treaty offered Kansas to the new reservation and historical references and stories of prior representation of any forced removal. Tribal members the chance to become established homesteads in southern Potawatomi encounters with the federal U.S. citizens, and numerous Acton family Pottawatomie County near Sacred government. He had six children with Ashkum’s descendants members chose to receive allotments. Heart where many still live today. Madeline: Mary Ann, Susan, Harrison, Cassie, John J. and Joseph Acton; and The Acton children experienced a time Several of Ashkum’s children married If interested in helping preserve four children with Angeline: Helen, of great change and upheaval. While other Potawatomi, including daughter Citizen Potawatomi history and Zoa, and twins, Mary Louise and Julia. their parents survived forced relocation, Mary Ann. She wed Wezo Burnett, culture by providing copies of the Kansas reservation along the and after her passing, he married family photographs, documents and Chief Ashkum established a village along Oregon and California Trails made it her sister Susan. Together they had more, contact the Cultural Heritage the Eel River in northern Indiana and desirable to developers. To open the two children, Cora and Agnes. Center at 405-878- 5830. HOWNIKAN JULY 2020 19 Tribal Chairman – John “Rocky” Barrett the time immediately following there was a sign on a Main Street systems, America decided long them toward their true mission. the assassination of the Reverend business saying, “No Dogs or ago to just let the police deal This hardened environment has Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. I Indians.” The relationship be- with it while decreasing public a disabling peer effect on other arrived in Memphis two days tween our Tribal government funding for mental health care. officers who do not agree with before his assassination, and and city government has been that mentality. Truly, we need the warehouse where I worked litigious, strained and adversar- Our 40-plus Tribal police of- to rethink our police methods was within sight of the motel ial for over 20 years. The only ficers, administrative staff and and training in our country. where he was murdered. The Native Americans ever elected to emergency dispatchers operate outpouring of grief and rage the Shawnee City Commission under a community-based po- I believe that the events we’re on the streets now reminds me in my tenure as Tribal Chair- licing approach. Tribal officers witnessing now will lead to of what I witnessed then. The man, Michael Dykstra and Lisa approach each situation under many necessary discussions shock, outrage and sadness that Shaw, were abused and excluded Police Chief Jim Collard’s prin- about racism and the systems I felt has never left my memory. from active participation for ciples of engagement, regardless put in place to keep it thriving their entire terms of office. of who they interact with. These across America. I encourage The unconscionable death of guiding principles emphasize the everyone to treat each other Bozho nikan Mr. Floyd under the knee of a We have put many responsibili- humanity and respect that ev- with decency and respect and feel empathy and mercy toward (Hello, my friend), policeman duty bound to serve ties on our police. Speaking as a eryone they encounter deserves. and protect him shows we still formerly deputized member of your fellow Americans. he demonstrations have a way to go in search of, our Tribal police and the County For anyone who watched the As always, it is an honor to following the death of as Dr. King said, a “society at Sheriff’s office, and the grandson video of Mr. Floyd’s death, the T serve as your Tribal Chairman. George Floyd in Minneapolis peace with itself, a society that and father of former law enforce- actions of that officer and in- comprehensible inactions of his have once again brought our can live with its conscience.” ment officers, I understand well Migwetch fellow police demonstrated a national conversation on race the issues they deal with. Our (Thank you), relations to the forefront. As Native Americans, we know society finds it simpler to use distinct lack of empathy for a too well the alternate reality that them as the first tool to address fellow man. It seems at times that John “Rocky” Barrett For those of us of a certain age, African Americans experience in all societal ills. For those impact- the line between “peace officers” Keweoge this is another long chapter in the interactions with law enforce- ed by mental illness, addiction and “combat soldiers” has been (He Leads Them Home) same book Americans have yet ment. In our town, the next or poverty, a police interaction breached. The mentality of some Tribal Chairman to finish. Watching the protests people on the list are Indians. can be a death sentence. Instead police departments and officers across the U.S. and Europe in As recently as the late 1950s of truly investing in social ser- who feel besieged and outnum- recent weeks reminded me of in my hometown of Shawnee, vice and mental health support bered has hardened many of Vice-Chairman – Linda Capps he was not. Rather to say that fond of all CPN elected officials, his passing occurred shortly including Legislators Gene after a stay in the hospital. Lambert, Dave Carney, Mark A hospital stay during the Johnson and Rande Payne. pandemic is an unfortunate time because loved ones cannot stay Last, but not least, the with the patient there. With Chairman was a longtime friend that said, we all know what a of Roy Slavin. He drove to brave person Roy Slavin was. Gladstone, Missouri, to officiate We know that his endurance Roy’s funeral. The COVID surpassed most people’s and pandemic reared its ugly head again to keep the Slavin family that his uplifting attitude was from having a traditional service. one of his finest attributes. Only family members could A beloved family man, Roy was attend Roy’s funeral service. married to his lovely wife for Burial was at Leavenworth Bozho 67 years. He has two sons and a National Cemetery. Roy Slavin (Hello), daughter — all devoted to their was a military hero as well as father. He also has eight grand- a hero to the many Citizen n the face of the pandemic Potawatomi Nation members across the United States children and 12 great-grand- I children. These family members that he served so well. He and the world, life must go on will be greatly missed. with everyday living. Perhaps portray an impressive legacy our surroundings change, from an honorable man. I want I have obtained permission but life continues. A lesson to zero in on Roy and Julia as a for the Hownikan to print this that my family learned when team for this article. They were a beautiful photo by the lovely I was a child is that even the notable team when Roy became and talented CPN member most important people in a CPN legislator in 2008. That Sharon Hoogstraten. your life will die someday. My relationship grew, as Julia was father was killed in a work- determined to be Roy’s helpmate Hoogstraten Photography related accident when I was in his endeavor to be an excellent 3071 W. Palmer Square a toddler; therefore, dying legislator. She was right by his Chicago, IL 60647 has been a part of my family’s side in assisting him to keep in entire life. I must say that even contact with his constituents and Migwetch though death is painful for in helping him plan legislative Roy and Julia Slavin (Photo by Sharon Hoogstraten) (Thank you), those left behind, it is a touch meetings in District 1 territory. to their district, like Legislator Oklahoma legislators, namely Linda Capps easier if you have experienced Their teamwork paid off as the Segenakwe that chapter of your life. Tribal members of District 1 Jon Boursaw, District 4, and Secretary-Treasurer D. Wayne Legislator Eva Marie Carney, Trousdale and legislators Bobbi (Black Bird Woman) flourished in coming together Vice-Chairman To those who loved and District 2. They even traveled Bowden, David Barrett, Lisa to celebrate their heritage. 405-275-3121 work cherished Roy Slavin, his death to Legislator Bob Whistler’s Kraft, Paul Schmidlkofer and 405-650-1238 cell made the tragic pandemic even Roy and Julia showed inspiring meetings in District 3 several Paul Wesselhöft. Of course, I [email protected] worse. Not to say that he was interaction with other times. They came to Oklahoma cannot leave out the other four a victim of the virus, because legislators, especially those closer often and were close to the because Roy and Julia were very 20 JULY 2020 HOWNIKAN District 2 – Eva Marie Carney more music (I highly recommend do my best to share and be Citizen Potawatomi member responsive to the needs/priorities Elexa Dawson’s Music is Medicine you identify. I will not share your at elexadawson.com and Marcia personal information. If you Bendo Watson’s Woodland Moons don’t like completing surveys, at marciawatsonbendo.com), you can send me an email or give tend the seedlings of vegetables me a call with your thoughts. and flowers I got from Upon request, I can send you a our Citizen Potawatomi copy of the survey questions by Community Garden, and make email, if that would be helpful. it a point to help someone in a tangible way, every day. Please complete the survey or provide your feedback This year we did not have the Eva Marie Carney and others dance during Grand on the survey questions by Entry at the Potawatomi Gathering. opportunity to come together the end of July. Thank you for summer visiting during your silver-lining opportunity to website, evamariecarney.com. for your time in doing so! Bozho nikanek our Family Reunion Festival, (Hello friends), see our eagle aviary and majestic You can find it on the “Heritage” The Kwek as the in-person, three-day eagles up close, be treated to page on the site. Please contact event was canceled. And there Society in the news 2020 is gaining on us explanations of Tribal history me if you need a reminder about will be no Gathering of the and culture from the Cultural the password to access what’s Unfortunately, The Kwek Society ’m not sure how it got to be Potawatomi Nations this year Heritage Center, and maybe behind the “Heritage” page. either; the Hannahville Indian did not win the Give A Brand! mid-summer already. This has even make a pair of moccasins or contest for rebranding services, I Community has announced July Feather requests made been such a challenging year for beaded earrings, if you can pull for which voting ended on June 26 to Aug. 7, 2021, as the dates to the U.S. Fish and so many. The only constant, it together the needed supplies. 11. So many Potawatomi and for the 2021 Gathering. I’ve Wildlife Service seems, has been disruption. I Chi migwetch (many thanks) to Anishnabe family and friends think we’re all far too ready to added this date to my website the CPN staff who conceived of at evamariecarney.com/calendar. Many of you may already know cast their votes for us — and turn the page on 2020. So many and executed the virtual Festival. many others contributed voting of us have been suffering, facing php. I’ve included here some this, but I didn’t realize until a past Gathering photos filled Honored Families update few weeks ago that the federal messages that we posted to serious illnesses, unexpected social media. I am so touched deaths of family and friends, with friendly Potawatomi faces. government has a new feather For future planning, the families by the interest you have shown job losses or reductions in request form. You can access it at While it wasn’t a replacement, that were to be honored during and your support. One nice work hours. All of us have been cpn.news/fws. You’ll know you there was a “virtual” CPN the Festival this year will be outcome of all the work involved confronted with the unspeakable have the correct form if there is a Festival that everyone could honored in 2021: Bruno, in getting out the vote is the murders of Black citizens that “7/2019” revised date in the top- participate in from home. CPN Darling, Hardin, Higbee, Lewis, article published by Native News have taken place across the left corner. Perhaps they’d accept staff offered virtual tours of our Nadeau, Slavin and Smith. the old form, but I wouldn’t risk Online. Read the article at cpn. country and the following Eagle Aviary and of the new news/branding. Chi migwetch protests, rioting, threats of it. I waited two and a half years series of exhibits in the Cultural Through 2026, the honored to get my feather order filled, and (many thanks) to everyone who military response, disruptive Heritage Center. They also families will be as follows: has helped us and will continue politics and distrust. Yet during I think it happened only because taught cultural classes, including 2022: Acton, Bergeron, Curley, Sarah Yabwekwe Dalton and I to help us with the work to end this same period, many of us beading demonstrations, DeLonais, Greemore, Levier, period poverty among North have celebrated the births of were visiting about naming, and moccasin making and cooking Negahnquet and Pambogo she shared a follow-up email American Native communities. children, the enrollments of new demonstrations for fry bread and Please send me a note with your CPN citizens (the legislature 2023: Clardy, Frapp, address from which she’d gotten corn soup, and language and email address if you want to start approved enrollment for more Kahdot, Juneau, Pappan, a recent response — repository@ history classes. There also were Crumbo and Muller fws.gov. Official wait time for 10 receiving our quarterly newsletter. than 100 Tribal members at the informative presentations by 2024: Bourassa, Burnett, feathers is listed as six months end of May), and maybe the some of our CPN departments, Thank you for the honor Melot, Navarre, Peltier, on fws.gov, but, as noted above, adoption of a rescue pup. We’ve including the education of representing you. hosted and attended (virtual) Wamego, Willmet and Vieux my wait time (I’d asked for 10 department and the children feathers) was five times that long. graduation ceremonies, posted and family services department. 2025: Andersen, Beaubin, Eva Marie Carney on social media about marriage Bertrand, Bourbonnais, Ogee, District 2 survey Ojindiskwe (Blue Bird Woman) proposals and family birthdays, If you missed the virtual Pettifer, Toupin, Wano and Yott Representative, District 2 and attended far too many Zoom Festival, you can still view 2026: Johnson, Laframboise, A reminder to District 2 citizens 2200 N. George Mason Drive or Google Hangout or What’s many of the presentations and LeReau, LeClaire, Melott, to take the survey posted cpn. PO Box #7307 App meetings. And we’re just demonstrations on YouTube. Rhodd, Tescier, Weld and Young news/dist2. The information Arlington, VA 22207 halfway into the year. My line of For those of you who have not you provide is for my use as 866-961-6988 toll-free attack for getting through it is to had the option of traveling to This listing is always available, your legislator in understanding [email protected] pray more, laugh more, listen to Shawnee in the summer, this is and I’ll keep it updated on my constituent priorities. I will evamariecarney.com District 3 – Bob Whistler FireLake grocery employees were expected from their elected They have their own medical what resources are available in constantly cleaning everything to Tribal legislators. The question facility, but it is restricted to their district. In addition, each keep it all very clean and sanitary. asked about what we do to their own tribal members. So, district legislator gets engaged in He talked about the medical stay engaged with our district trying to pair up with other the community wherever there staff setting up a kiosk to check members and the community nations in Texas to have them is a fit. For example, Eva Marie our citizens for possible contact we live in. I responded to the jointly present crafts is really Carney in District 2 created with the virus. He was very inquiry to answer the questions nonexistent. However, we have the Kwek Society, a nonprofit happy to see that the Chairman, that I could. This is not a very Native Americans from over group to provide menstrual Vice-Chairman and staff in all easy question to answer because 150 federally recognized tribes supplies to Native American departments, including the no two districts are exactly living in District 3. District 8 females who do not have access medical areas, immediately alike. For example, District it is exactly the opposite. That to these goods on their own. created policies that worked and 4 encompasses a single state. district has many tribes that In my district, I am actively were in compliance with what District 3 covers only two- have participated in joint craft- involved by participating in the state and federal government thirds of a state. Districts 1, 2, making classes. District 5 also Native American programs. For desired. As legislators, we must 5, 6, 7 and 8 cover very large has multiple tribes to potentially example, I’m an ambassador for areas. Our districts that are work with. District 2, I believe, the American Indian Heritage Bozho nikan rely upon Rocky, Linda and staff outside Oklahoma are setup may have one or two tribes, with Day of Texas group where we (Hello friend), to do the best job possible. From the feedback I received, I would so the largest one is no more one being the Seminoles, some support various powwows and CPN Shawnee conclude that they met the than about 30 percent larger in of whose members reside in the Santa Fe Days. Each year on challenge and took care of our population than the smallest. As Florida Everglades. However, the last Saturday of September, I had the opportunity to speak citizens and staff to the highest a result, due to the layout of our District 2 includes Washington we hold an all-day powwow- with one of our Tribal members degree possible. My personal population in the U.S., some D.C. as well as the National type meeting at Lone Star Park who moved from District 3 last thanks go out to them all. districts include many complete Museum of the American Indian where we cover various cultural year and now lives in Shawnee. states as well as parts of other whose warehouse in Maryland areas as well as recognize a He advised me that he was very Facebook states. Moreover, resources vary has been receptive to giving specific tribal nation. As a impressed and proud of the way from area to area. In District 3, tours to our Nations’ members. member of that group, I attend CPN staff in Shawnee handled In early June, there was a we basically have one tribe in These comments are not meant monthly meetings with a their jobs during the COVID-19 post on Facebook by a Tribal the very southeastern part of the to make excuses but to explain racial equality group working impact. He cited the fact that member asking what the citizens state that wishes to be left alone. that each legislator tries to use towards truth and racial healing HOWNIKAN JULY 2020 21 to bring transformation to forward information out to the Three. So, you will need to send 1980s. The elderly and citizens ballot items that are designed to the city of Dallas. I have also District 1 Tribal members. I a request to me advising you who had bought their property increase or generate tax revenue been active with the Grand have made that same request are a member of District 3 and 10 or 20 years earlier found that that you were not subjected to Prairie Schools in creating a at least half a dozen times, and wish to be added to the group. because of skyrocketing home in the past. I am not saying we high school elective course I know I have seen the same Hopefully, I will be able to get sales, they received tax bills they don’t want to provide funding for on Native American history. I request made by other legislators information out to more of you. could not afford, and many lost our city governments. They need am working on that program in the Hownikan. Currently, their homes. For example, a to find ways to cut their costs as part of the government the Tribal Rolls Department COVID-19 impact $17,000 home purchase made just as a great many citizens have committee. I will be giving says I have over 2,800 Tribal 10 years before could be valued Because of COVID-19, most had to do for lost wages resulting a PowerPoint presentation members in District 3. Over and taxed at $217,000 or more states and many cities are having from the COVID-19 impact. at the Allen, Texas, library in the last eleven years, I have because the house next door a tremendous shortfall in sales September on where CPN came collected email addresses on less sold for $230,000. To protect In closing, if I have offended tax revenue. They need to pay from and where we are many than 10 percent of the members themselves from excessive anyone in any area in this their employees and provide for centuries later. Where possible, in my district. Moreover, from property tax that they could month’s article, please accept infrastructure needs. The need I interface with different Tribal the last email I sent out several not pay and the potential loss my apology. I tend to speak my for funds cannot simply be made members as the opportunities weeks ago, over 40 came back of their homes, Proposition 13 mind and try to present the facts up with the slow startup process arise. If all goes well, I do plan as invalid. In the last two years, was created. I have heard rumors as they are, even if rather a bit we will be going through. As to hold at least one district I have only had four or five that local communities in Texas direct. I am honored to serve as a result, we need to be on the meeting before the end of the members in District 3 send are looking for some rather you representative and am here alert for some new bills showing year in both the north and me their email contacts. I was large property tax increases in to serve you. Do keep in mind, up on the November ballot south areas of District 3. able to garner and add several November. If this happens in I do not control or oversee the others by getting their email aimed at getting the state more Texas, we can petition that the daily operation of the Nation. Communication address when they attended a revenue. In some cases, because increase is more than our state Where you have a question or district meeting, which is how many city governments annual law allows — I believe it is eight need information, I can direct One response on the Facebook I secured most of the email budget run from October to the percent — and call for a special you on where to go or who to item that I attempted to addresses that I have. So at this end of September, we may find election to have our city property contact. As a legislator, I cannot answer had to do with point, my primary means of that property taxes may increase tax frozen for one year at the go to individual departments communication. The person reaching most of you is through substantially based upon the same rate we paid last year. I for you. I must go through the was asking why we don’t get my monthly article. There have city council vote. While it does am a small business owner, and executive branch. If you have more information out to the been times that I had some not impact us here in Texas, each quarter, I submit my sales an issue with a particular rule members in our district. The information that may have California attempted to rescind tax report and forward the sales or with anything, I will take reason for that deals with not their proposition 13 law in been of interest to you, and it tax collected to the state, who in it to the executive committee having everyone’s email contact. their last election and now their was sent by email to the few turn gives the city its share. Since for their action and resolution. When we became legislators that I have. I have occasionally attorney general is supposedly March 12, I have had no sales, in 2008, we were advised by emailed information that was initiating a special school and and this is normally the second Bama mine staff that due to privacy rules, not included in my column government funding resolution busiest quarter for me due to (Later), they do not divulge CPN because the article deadline had that has been buried within sales for the summer. At this time, contact information of the passed and the item would take the repeal of proposition 13. I will be submitting a report Bob Whistler members in each district to place before the next Hownikan Currently, Proposition 13 sets showing zero sales tax collected. I Bmashi (He Soars) that legislator. During the last edition would get out. So I am your property tax based upon the know from talking to peers and Representative, District 3 ten years, District 1 advised again asking on behalf of all the purchase price of your property looking at other businesses, there 112 Bedford Road, Suite 116 members almost monthly that legislators for you to send the rather than market value. This will be many, many businesses Bedford, TX 76022 the legislators do not have email legislator in your district your proposition was passed to protect advising the Texas Comptroller 817-282-0868 office contact information. More email address. To complement the homeowners from massive they have had no sales and 817-229-6271 cell than 120 times, Roy Slavin this, I have set up a private property tax increases due to there is no sales tax revenue to 817-545-1507 home asked members to send him Facebook page for District 3. extraordinary land value increases report or submit. So be guarded [email protected] their email address so he could It will be titled CPN District in California in the 1970s and accordingly, and watch for any [email protected] District 4 – Jon Boursaw delivered to those who are unable of the uncertainty of COVID-19 to come to Rossville. Normal- and my involvement in the dis- ly, the commodities consist of tribution program. I consider the three boxes: produce items, dairy Potawatomi Youth Program to be products and meat. Several CPN extremely important, and I will members have volunteered to do my best to have it rescheduled assist us in disbursing the boxes, to possibly a Saturday in the fall. which is greatly appreciated, and we have been thankfully assist- Ground penetrating ed by several members of the radar survey of the local 4-H club. This program Uniontown Cemetery is part of a nationwide effort As you can imagine, the GPR to distribute commodities to survey activities were put on hold individuals at no cost as part at the same time the University of the U.S. Department of Ag- of Kansas closed its campus and Bozho riculture’s Farmers to Families suspended all activities. I have (Hello), program. I’ve been told that the been in contact with Dr. Schnei- program is expected to continue der, and she told me that she has Commodities through the month of August. been allowed back on campus distribution program and expects to resume surveying July Elders the cemetery by the end of July. s many of you know, we Potluck in Rossville Ahave been involved in this Pakistani program since mid-June. The The potlucks are back! The July Fulbright Scholars article on page 14 describes this Elders Potluck will be held on in detail. But first, I want to Friday, July 10, at noon in the You may recall in last month’s express my thanks and apprecia- CPN Community Center in Hownikan, I mentioned I had representative. I appreciate Migwetch tion to the CPN Senior Support Rossville. I’ve heard that Tracy been asked to give my CPN hearing from CPN members in (Thank you), Network staff in Rossville: Tracy and Sharon have planned an history presentation to this Kansas, whether in the form of Jon Boursaw, Kinderknecht, RN and Sharron outdoor cookout consisting of group of 150 students at a a letter, email, phone call or visit Wetase Mkoh (Brave Bear) Long, CNA. They willingly took hamburgers and hot dogs for conference hosted by Kansas to my office. Please let me know on this additional responsibility the main course. They have State University. I have recently how I can be of assistance to you. Representative, District 4 and made it happen. Simply asked that you RSVP if you plan been informed that because If you are not receiving emails 2007 SW Gage Blvd. said, they are the reason why the on attending. Their number is of COVID-19, the conference from me, it is because I do not Topeka, KS 66604 785-584-6171. You are asked program has been successful. We will now be held on Zoom, have your current email address 785-861-7272 office to bring a side dish or dessert. pick up the commodities every and my presentation has been or what I have is incorrect. All 785-608-1982 cell deleted from the agenda. Thursday at the Topeka Rescue Kansas Potawatomi you need to do is simply send [email protected] Mission Distribution Center and Youth Program Honored to serve you me an email, and I will enter the Office hours: return to Rossville where they are email address into my District 9-11 a.m. Tuesdays issued directly to CPN members I am postponing this program It is an honor to serve you 4 information file. My contact 3-5 p.m. Thursdays to take home, or in a few cases, scheduled for July 23 as a result as your District 4 legislative information is listed below. Other times: please call 22 JULY 2020 HOWNIKAN District 5 – Gene Lambert world if we can take a moment was and decided to call them “Through all this,” he said, “the “Does he love Snoopy like you to look at the adventurous, for accurate information. ‘Snoopy pin’ is the highest do”? I asked. He said it was a creative and new progressive honor you can receive now from requirement in the interviews. things happening as well. The call was answered by a very NASA. We have committees young person who admitted he who vote on who should receive A few days later, I received a For instance, we have the 4th was not up on all the history this pin. One has never been poster of Snoopy on a rocket. of July and celebrating the behind the mascot, but he given to a President, for instance. If you’re interested in learning independence of our country. said, “I know someone who That isn’t the point. They must Additionally, a SpaceX Falcon loves to talk about Snoopy,” more, search for “Snoopy be directly related to a specific and NASA” online. You 9 rocket was launched last and he transferred the call. flight in which they contributed month. This was the first will find more articles to Seriously, the next voice I above and beyond to its success. read than you can believe. time in nine years we had An astronaut is the only person astronauts launched from the heard was from the director of operations at NASA. He who can award a ‘Snoopy pin.’’’ So in the midst of trials and USA. They were headed to the tribulations, miracles do space station to do repairs, as I took the time as I introduced “Can you tell me a funny myself as a “student” looking happen. Sometimes there are understand it. This is exciting. story that I could share for historical information. miracles in our lives we don’t in my speech?” I asked. The day it happened reminded That was all I had to say. even acknowledge as such. There are stories about times me of a Snoopy story I had “Oh yes,” he affirmed. “You Bozho He was definitely excited of financial stress where people (Hello), in the late ‘90s. I was taking know what an astronaut has to a class on public speaking at to talk about Snoopy. decide to write that book, start go through and the years it take a new business and do so quite hope this article finds a local community college, “We were trying to figure out for training, right? It was during and I normally gave very in- successfully. Put your mind everyone in good physical what it would take to connect a graduation speech I was giving and prayers to the answer, not I depth speeches on religion or and mental health. You have the public and make the to a group of astronauts that the problem. The Lord already spirituality. The decision was been on my mind, and I have rocket to the moon acceptable suddenly one stood up and knows. Say what you want or made this time to do something heard from many of you trying to the public,” he said. This said, ‘What I want to know need, not what you don’t have. to figure out what all this totally unexpected. You want to was something feared at is when do I get to give the means personally. The Creator keep your audience guessing. the time and a little out of Snoopy pins?’ So, the honor is Thinking of you, knows you have been through science fiction to them. there for NASA, the recipient the ringer with all the activity Remembering my son growing Eunice Imogene Lambert up in an all-female household (I and the astronaut who presents going on in the world. Hang Snoopy and Charlie Brown Butterfly Woman was a single parent), at 4 years the pin only after having been in there, as this too shall pass. were always trying to learn how Representative, District 5 old, he did not understand approved by their committee. to fly. There is the connection, The pin must leave the 270 E Hunt Highway, Ste 229 These times create confusion, why he could not have a doll and the comics brought the San Tan Valley, AZ 85143 like everybody else. Concerned atmosphere and return before doubt, frustration, anger and masses along as they introduced it is considered authentic.’’ 480-228-6569 all the feelings we fight to keep about how others might treat new science to the people. [email protected] under wraps. Fear sets in when him on the playground, I It is a pretty big deal. we cannot predict tomorrow. decided he needed something As he continued to share his Congratulation to the a little more masculine and beginning and continued He gave me the phone number following 2020 graduates! We were never really decided to buy him a Snoopy support of Snoopy, you could to call Charles Schulz, the Alfred Neves guaranteed that anyway. doll. He was special because you hear the admiration he had for creator of Snoopy, as he too Family: Rhodd However, we like to think so. could remove his red sweatshirt the comic character. We have loved to talk about this little San Marcos High School and Levi’s so he would feel had times when it was suggested guy. I was embarrassed saying, High School Diploma This is July 2020, which marks like he now has a doll of his they make him appear more “Oh, I can’t call him with my the first half of the year. I own and not risk ridicule. aggressive, but that has declined little speech questions.” Maxihikio (Makee) Neves continue to marvel at how fast as the years have gone by because Family: Rhodd it flies as the years progress. I remembered Snoopy as a child Snoopy is not a warmonger. “He would love to talk to you, I Make your days count. as well as the Peanuts newspaper can assure you,” he continued. Westfield High School comics that showed he and Other countries we partner with High School Diploma The Citizen Potawatomi Nation Charlie Brown every day. Adults have attempted to promote I regret today I did not call is not alone in the difficulties and children alike loved Snoopy. their mascot unsuccessfully, so Schulz and use the director of Grace Neves we have survived these past few everyone has simply adopted operations at NASA’s name and Family: Rhodd months. As I have said often, Now, with that little backstory, Snoopy as their own. He is continue the interview. I really San Marcos Middle School while these are trying times, we I wanted all the information I world famous and accepted felt I was imposing on some Middle School Diploma will survive it even though it will could acquire for my speech and in the world of science. very busy and important people. not be without some sacrifices. remembered that Snoopy was We know about that, don’t we? a mascot for NASA. Having Snoopy flew with the astronauts The director then shared that worked with NASA in the past, successfully and was one of in September of that year, a While this is true, there is always I recalled how helpful their the first items placed at the new person was taking over something great going on in the public information department origination of the space station. his position at NASA. District 6 – Rande K. Payne I believe the Citizen Potawatomi school is the only place they feel Services, Indian Child Welfare, sorry for any inconvenience Nation has done a fantastic safe. Many school districts are Foster Care/Adoption and Family this may have caused. job navigating the challenges calling upon parents to assist Preservation that all operate associated with COVID-19. Chi with distance learning. This is not under the umbrella of FireLodge Potawatomi Phrase of the Month: Nishokmowa – help migwetch (many thanks) to our a recipe for success in many cases. Children & Family Services. someone, he/she does health care staff for being there Ashlee May is the director. We Here in my community, the day in and day out, providing also have Adult Protective elderly in some assisted living Wisdom from the Word: health care services for our Services programs that operate “The Lord is like a father to members and the Shawnee area facilities were severely impacted by COVID-19. We have all under the direction of Janet his children, tender and community. CPN Chief Medical compassionate to those who seen the videos of elder abuse Draper. Assistance is available to Officer Dr. Adam Vascellaro all Citizen Potawatomi. However, fear him.” Psalm 103:13 and his team took a proactive in assisted living or elder care keep in mind, resources are approach in setting up protocols facilities. I think perhaps Migwetch! limited and can be more difficult necessary for continued safe and there are other abuses that go (Thank you!) to provide in districts outside reliable health care services. unnoticed. Poor sanitation and a lack of facility maintenance of Oklahoma. You can reach Rande K. Payne Bozho nikanek Some of the victims of the are problems that ultimately FireLodge Children & Family Mnedo Gabo (Hello friends), collateral damage from have a direct, negative effect on Services at 405-878-4831. Representative, District 6 s I look back over the course COVID-19 that I am most residents living in poorly run 31150 Road 180 Our District 6 event scheduled Aof my life, I cannot recall concerned about are our youth facilities. Due to the coronavirus, Visalia, CA 93292-9585 any event that has had such and our elders. For many no visitor policies were put in for July 25 in Temecula has 559-999-3525 office widespread effect on humanity children, their time away from place, and the potential for abuse been canceled. As of this 559-999-5411 cell as the coronavirus. There is home while at school is time has gone largely unchecked as writing, the Ronald H. Roberts [email protected] the disease itself that is reason away from environments of there is no one to advocate on Public Library remains closed enough for concern. But will the alcoholism, substance abuse, behalf of their loved ones. I due to COVID-19. I am collateral damage be even greater mental abuse, physical abuse and am so grateful that we have hoping to plan an event when than the disease? Time will tell. so on. Sadly, for some children, FireLodge Children & Family we can gather safely. I am HOWNIKAN JULY 2020 23 District 7 – Mark Johnson Family Reunion Festival. In this examples of how little progress funding will not be enough, but your contact information so strange new world that we seem has been made in certain areas. we are hopeful that a second that I can keep you informed to be living in, virtual seems to round of funding will be of the happenings within be the new normal. It is just a If your family has unmet provided once the initial round the Nation and District 7. lot harder to shake hands, and needs due to the COVID-19 is disbursed. Do not wait to Migwetch it will never take the place of pandemic, please take advantage apply. Should you need further to the Coronavirus Relief Fund (Thank you), being there in person. Hopefully, information, feel free to call that is available to our members the pandemic can work itself myself or Tribal headquarters. nationwide from the CARES Mark Johnson, out or a vaccine is developed Act funding made available Once again, I would like to say Wisk Mtek (Strong as a Tree) and widely available before to the tribes. Information is what an honor it is to serve you Representative, District 7 next year’s Festival. It is tragic available through the Tribal as your District 7 representative. 1565 Shaw Ave., Suite 202 how these diseases still adversely website at potawatomi.org/cares, As always, give me a call. I will Clovis, CA 93611 impact the Native American or by following the information be happy to work with you on 559-351-0078 cell communities at a much higher available in this issue of the any questions you may have, [email protected] rate than the rest of the country, Hownikan. This includes or provide you with additional Bozho nikanek as evidenced by the tragic a maximum of $1,200 per information you may need (Hello friends), loss of so many of our Navajo qualified Tribal member or to access Tribal benefits that and Hopi brothers and sisters. $5,000 per qualified Tribal may be available to you. Please hope that you had a chance As advanced as this country member-owned business. It is also take the time to give me a I to attend the virtual 2020 is, there are still such glaring anticipated that the current call or send me an email with District 8 – Dave Carney from its pre-pandemic status. to support my customers who creates hard feelings and In the legislature’s executive With the advent of Amazon, were buying homes and selling discontent — however it may session where details were major retailers like Sears and homes in the area toward the be distributed. By now, you hashed out, I offered a JCPenney have been on life successful conclusion of their have seen in several forums, proposal that no member of support, and the nation’s retail transactions. Most deals closed; including the Hownikan, on the legislature or a business malls have been in an evolving others did not, but I found how funds will be spent for owned by a legislator can receive mode. This pandemic will that I could work effectively expenses directly related to any of these COVID funds. effectively be pulling the plug. without driving to an office. I COVID at the Tribe, to Tribal have since changed companies members and Tribal member- I am looking forward to being Churches have gone 100 percent and am working for a firm that owned businesses that apply able to meet in person with online, and the majority have is 100 percent online. One of and can show documented District 8 members. We are in had their collections drop the most fascinating elements need not mitigated by other the planning stages of the Fall drastically. Again, some of these of this new model is called COVID related funds, like the Feast still. The date has been set institutions that were barely “The World.” I have created an stimulus. If you are in need for Oct. 24, and it will be a mid- getting by will likely shut their avatar that looks like me, and I of these funds and the need doors permanently. Others will walk through this virtual world, meets this requirement, please day meal and gathering held Bohzo nikan at the Great Spirit Methodist (Hello friend), thrive as they adapt to new attending trainings, meeting apply at potawatomi.org/cares. ways of serving their members. other agents and meeting Church in Portland, Oregon. ere we are, months into the with various administrative There are some tribes, like It is my honor to serve Hpandemic, and life looks As some of you know, I am a staff to resolve issues. the Sac and Fox Nation, who very different for all of us. Some real estate agent working in utilized some funds per the as your legislator, people are suffering financially, the Olympia, Washington, At our last legislative meeting, guidelines. However, they Dave Carney others emotionally and still area. I have been working for the Nation’s elected officials took the remainder and others, spiritually. There will a major traditional brokerage received a briefing on the distributed them in a “per Kagasghi (Raven) be businesses that never open for many years. In mid-March, legal ramifications around the cap” manner. While that may Representative, District 8 again and some that will have my office closed its doors in guidelines of how to utilize the be popular, it clearly does 520 Lilly Road, Building 1 a large part of their workforce response to the state lockdown CARES Act funds received from not follow the Treasury’s Olympia, WA 98506 working from home. The mandated by the governor. In the U.S. Treasury Department. guidelines, and it is likely those 360-259-4027 economy will certainly change the following weeks, I continued A large sum of money often funds will need to be repaid. [email protected]

District 9 – Paul Wesselhöft Bozho nikan thousands and destroying done so since we were forced nation as we survive and thrive (Hello friend), thousands of businesses, to walk our Trail of Death. from a disease of the body we were hit with the most and a disease of the soul. America in crises challenging racial crises since “I can’t breathe,” is a clarion cry to reform our law enforcement, Migwetch the Civil Rights Movement he first half of 2020 included especially when they arrest (Thank you), Tperhaps the worst and most of the early 1960s. minorities. And all black challenging months of the 21st Paul Wesselhöft For weaker nations, such a lives matter, including the century. For many young people, Naganit (Leader) double crises would bring elder black officer murdered these months have been the worst protecting someone’s business. Representative, District 9 in their lifetime. It is the most down their civilization, but [email protected] troubling time since Sept. 11. not America. We not only America is such a greater survive, we thrive. It is in nation having been tutored by Somewhere in the middle of a our DNA as Potawatomi to the Civil Rights Movement, terrible viral pandemic killing survive and thrive. We have and America will be a greater 24 JULY 2020 WALKING ON Warren Vene Morris William Wayne Southall glish for four years. He then came Dick is survived by his wife, Rae; American Legion. On Memorial back to the U.S. to earn an M.S. in son, Rusty and daughter-in-law, Day weekend, he traveled with radio and television from Syracuse Julie; and grandchildren, Hannah the American Legion Firing Squad University. He directed radio and and Addison (Dylan) Pearl. His to the area cemeteries to honor television for Brown University, led siblings include Erma (Sam, de- the deceased veterans. In 2015, WLIW-TV on Long Island, then ceased) Pozzobon; Newell (Mary) Jerry and other chosen veterans moved to Rochester to grow the Soelter (both deceased); Donna traveled to Washington, D.C. on PBS station WXXI, where he was (Ken) Williams (both deceased); the Wamego Honor Flight. president for 26 years 1969-1995. Donald Soelter (deceased); Will (de- ceased) (Dee) Soelter; James (Nancy) He was a member of the Citizen Bill was a proud CPN member and Soelter; Margie (Pete) Overgaauw; Potawatomi Nation and the CPN Burnett descendant. In 2008, he and Lester Soelter (deceased). Veteran Association. Jerry and his ran for District 1 Tribal legislator wife Hildegard would make an and lost by one vote. He served His wife said, “Your last words annual trip to Shawnee, Oklahoma, for many years on the Board of to me will always be in my heart, to the Family Reunion Festival and Native American Public Telecom- and the love I have for you will also were part of the Trail of Death munications (NAPT). A dedicated never die.” They would have William (Bill) Wayne Southall caravan. They coordinated a naming student of Native history, he spent been married 60 years this May. passed away at home on April 10, ceremony for 28 family members his retirement giving talks on Indian 2020, at the age of 58 after giving to receive their Indian names. They Warren Morris died in Longview, boarding schools and the Native Memorials may be made to all his love and life to his family owned and operated G & H Pearl Washington, of natural causes. He roots of democracy. He also loved the Quincy Senior Center, and and loved ones. He was the son Farms and Pearl Trucking. He was was born in Elmwood, Oklahoma, staying active with skiing, tennis, a celebration of life service a member of the Tri-County Drain- to Mabel and Lorrin Morris. In of Pat and Wayne Southall. Bill squash and Pilates and was a vora- will be held at a later date. age board for many years. Jerry 1937, they moved to Washington attended OSU. He was a truck cious reader of the daily newspapers. also enjoyed his family, farming, state. Warren attended schools driver and farmer. Bill enjoyed cars ranching, traveling and woodwork- locally, graduating from R.A. and his family. He was also a part- Gerald T. (Jerry) Pearl The family would like to thank ing. He was a jack-of-all-trades. Long High School in 1949. time mechanic. He was a member Heather Heights, The Friendly of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation. He played basketball and was Home and Nick VanStaalduinen of Jerry was an active member of admitted to the hall of fame. Senior’s Choice Care Management He is survived by two sisters, Kay Alcoholics Anonymous for 43 for their love and devotion to him Parks of Allen, Texas, and Sharon years and was a mentor to many As a youth, he was employed with for the last seven years. Condolences Jahn of Fairview, Texas. He has in recovery up until his death. Longview Fibre Co. and Quality and memories may be shared at one niece and four nephews: Noah Bakery. In 1950, he started working millerfuneralandcremationservices. Jerry was united in marriage to Jahn, Joshua Jahn, Kioko Jahn, for Long-Bell Lumber Co. He com. Memorial contributions may Hildegard J. Taphorn, on April Brandon Parks and Cody Parks. became purchasing manager, and be made to Friends of Ganondagan. 12, 1958, at St. Gregory’s Catholic his work took him to many places Bill rests in peace at the Lawnview Church in Marysville, Kansas. They in the U.S., Japan, the Philippines, met through the CYO and loved to Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand Cemetery in Cordell, Oklahoma. Richard Soelter Bill was known for his great dance. Hildegard preceded him in and Taiwan. When International death in 2014. Mr. Pearl was also Paper closed, he opened his own sense of humor and telling great stories. He will be missed dearly. preceded in death by their infant successful lumber sales business son, Johnny; his brother, J.B. Pearl; before becoming president- his sisters, Marjorie Guerich and manager of Ross Simmons William Joseph Pearce Maureen Harris; and his great- Lumber Co. He retired in 1996. granddaughter, Parker Monhollon.

Warren and Anna Jeanne (DePriest) He is survived by his eight daugh- were married June 10, 1950. They ters he called his “String of Pearls”: had three children: Karen, Lora and Gerald T. (Jerry) Pearl, 88, died June 11, 2020, at his home with Colleen Monhollon (Jim Meyer), Kirk. He spent time with each of Rossville; Cathy Pearl, Manhattan; them, his grandchildren and great- his loving family at his bedside. He was born May 14, 1932, on a Christy (Dave) Ronsse; Gerry Lou grandchildren in their endeavors (Dan) Marstall, St. Marys; Mary in school and sports activities. farm near St. Marys, referred to as the “Sandy Hook” community. He (James) Wurtz; Ginger (Jerry) Flach, After retirement, he and AJ spent was the youngest of six children Paxico; Angie Leuthold (John Burns) time travelling in their RV to born to Thomas M. and Florence Wamego; and Michelle (Ryan) Mar- tin, St. Marys; his brother, Bob Pearl Arizona and toured many state Richard (Dick) Soelter passed G. Doyle Pearl. Mr. Pearl attended of Parma Heights, Ohio; sister, Sr. capitals. They visited Washington away April 11, 2020, at the age James Grade School in rural Shaw- D.C., New York and cruised to of 87. He was born to Herman nee County. He graduated from Virginia Pearl, CSJ, of Concordia; Alaska. He enjoyed bowling, golfing, and LaVera Soelter on May St. Marys High School in 1950. sister-in-law, Eileen Pearl, formerly hunting, fishing and casinos. 4, 1932, in Belvue, Kansas. He served in the U.S. Army from of St. Marys; and the entire Taphorn He was a member of the Early 1954-1956 in the post Korean War family. Mr. Pearl has 18 grandchil- Edition Rotary. He took pleasure He served in the Army from Oc- era and was honorably discharged dren, 14 great-grandchildren, nu- volunteering at St. Vincent De Paul. William (Bill) Joseph Pearce walked tober 1953 until July 1954 in Ko- in 1962. He was nicknamed “Mus- merous nieces, nephews and many on May 9, 2020, in Rochester, New rea. He was honorably discharged cles” in high school and “Gates” in great friends, including Jerry’s fiancé, Warren was a proud member of York, at the age of 95. He is survived with the rank of sergeant. He was the military, referring to the “Pearly Betty Narolis, Topeka, and her Citizen Potawatomi Nation, and by his sister Marijean Wade and awarded the Korean Service Medal Gates.” When he returned from the daughters, Laura McVay and Geor- he attended several powwows. brother David; children, Laura with two Bronze Star Medals. He service, he continued to work on gianne Crow. He loved to joke and At numerous regional meetings, Stone, Alex Stone, Margaret, Daniel, also received the United Nations the family farm. Jerry never knew a tell stories and was very ornery with he received the elder award. Tyler and Ryder; grandchildren, Service Medal, National Defense stranger and gave a helping hand to all. His smile was his greatest feature. Eli Atkins and Garrett Atkins; Service Medal, Combat Infantry- those in need. Besides a firm hand- He loved his pie first, followed by Warren is survived by his loving and life partner Mary Taylor. man Badge and a Purple Heart. shake, you would know him from his cheeseburger, and shared these and devoted wife, Anna Jeanne, his signature wink and thumbs up. meals with his grandchildren. of 69 years; three children, Karen Bill was born in Ponca City, Okla- Dick was employed with Foster (Fred) Bruechert, Lora Leedy and homa, on Jan. 15, 1925, son of Wil- and Kleiser Outdoor Advertising Jerry was a lifetime member of the In lieu of flowers, memorial Kirk (Ellie) Morris; granddaughters, liam Pearce and Mary Fitzgerald and Company from 1954 to 1965. He Immaculate Conception Catholic contributions may be made to Allison (John) Milhorn, Melissa grandson of William Pearce and Car- farmed from 1965 to 1975 and was Church; he was a faithful adorer, an the Topeka Midland Hospice, (John Price) Bruechert, Emma Leedy rie Wickens. He grew up in South employed with the Quincy School Honorary Life Member of Knights Immaculate Conception Church and Kory (Josh) Fischer; great- Buffalo, New York, and enlisted in District from 1969 until 1994. of Columbus Council #657 and the Food Bank, the St. Marys Historical granddaughters, Maddie, Haleigh, the Navy at age 16, serving four Thomas A. McNeive Fourth Degree Society or charity of choice and sent Deidre, Kelsey, and Avery; great- years in the Pacific aboard the USS He was an enrolled member of Assembly. For many years, he served in care of Piper Funeral Home, 714 great grandchildren, Demetrius Windsor. After the war, he earned a the Citizen Potawatomi Nation as a member of the Honor Guard Maple Street, St. Marys, Kansas and Peyton; and two sisters, Odetta B.A. in English at Miami University of Shawnee, Oklahoma, and was for deceased members of both 66536. Online condolences may be Yeager and Rhonda Pfingsten. and returned to Tokyo to teach En- named Naganit, meaning “Leader.” the Knights of Columbus and the sent to piperfuneralhome.com. Submitting CPN burial assistance through Tribal Rolls obituaries The $2,000 CPN Burial Assistance Fund is automatically available to all enrolled CPN members. You may fill out

To submit an obituary, please a burial assistance fund form if you would like for us to keep it on file in case of any change in resolutions. send a word document with Please note: Once a CPN tribal member has passed, the Tribal Rolls office must be notified in order for CPN to no more than 300 words, a 300dpi photo and a contact provide burial funding. Information and instructions for the burial process will be sent to the next of kin and will phone number to be discussed then.

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