THE KAYENTA

3rd Annual MV Film Fest THE NEWSPAPER OF THE KAYENTA TOWNSHIP AND COMMUNITY Kayenta Graduates Page 9 Page 10 TODAYA Free Publication from the Kayenta Township

Summer 2008 WWW.KAYENTATOWNSHIP.NET EDC Delegates Authority To Township By Malcom Benally

KAYENTA, AZ – The Economic Development Committee held its second regular meeting at the Kay- enta Town Hall on Wednesday, June 03, 2009. Over 60 people packed Kayenta Forth Of July the Town Hall as they waited pa- Rodeo Set To Become tiently on this historic day in Kay- Premier Southwest Event enta, Arizona as the EDC approved and delegated its Business Site By Malcolm Benally Leasing authority to the Kayenta Township. KAYENTA, AZ – The Kayenta Fourth of July All Indian Rodeo and Around 10:00 pm, community Festivities will be held July 01 to July 04, 2009 and is headed to be- leaders and long time supporters come the premier All-Indian Rodeo of the Kayenta Township began to in Indian Country. arrive, some from as far away as Wolf Creek, CO, Albuquerque, NM, The rodeo’s website touts: “Kayen- and Phoenix, AZ. Some came early Signing of the Resolution: frontand center Lawrence Platero, EDC Chairper- ta has a long storied past of produc- to meet the Town Manager, Jarvis son. Front Row Left to Right: Mel R. Begay, Katherine Benally, Tom LaPahe, ing the best All Indian cowboys and Williams and the current Township Helen Bonnaha. Back Row Left to Right: Jarvis Williams, Town Manager, Delo- cowgirls in all of Indian rodeo. It is Commissioners whose administra- res Greyeyes, Roy Dempsey, , Lorenzo Isaac. with that same story we bring you tion has now been at work a little the best All-Indian Rodeo in North over six months. and acknowledging the previous meet- leaders in the audience including the Chapter delegation from Sheep America.” ing minutes, the Committee got down Springs, NM, former Nation The day’s audience patiently milled to business. President Peterson Zah, Dr. Gerald The Kayenta 4th of July Rodeo has around and chatted until about Knowles from Wolf Creek, CO, the grown over the years, and has set KTNN, the voice of the Navajo Na- 10:40 am when the current Township Commissioners, its sights on having the most con- tion, was on-site for a 3 hour live Economic Development Commit- Navajo County Board of Supervisors remote broadcast. testants this year. “Since Window tee Chair Lawrence Platero called for District I/ Rock will not be hosting an All-Indi- the meeting to order. After accept- Delegate Jonathan Nez an Rodeo this year, we are expecting ing the day’s agenda items, roll The Committee Chair and the Town- a record number of rodeo contes- call, public announcements, and ship acknowledged current and past Continued on page 3 tants,” says the rodeo coordinator. Kayenta Township Staff and Commission The Kayenta 4th of July Rodeo has been recognized 6 times as the Move Forward After Six Months Rodeo of the Year and twice as the KAYENTA, AZ – After three Town Hall meetings, work Outstanding Rodeo by the All-Indi- sessions, and special meetings to coordinate plans with an Rodeo Association, making it one inter-agencies, the Kayenta Township Commission and staff of the premier rodeos to attend here are finishing up the groundwork for several projects to go in the Southwest. into construction, or begin in-house surveying and/or design work. Continued on page 6 Continued on page 5 2 Town Managers Message: Taking the Next Step leasing authorities that will bring more local control to their areas but for now it is Shonto By Jarvis Williams sibilities the local Kayenta leaders put their Community Governance and Kayenta Town- Kayenta Town Manager thoughts together to draft a form of govern- ship that have obtained that authority. ment only practiced outside the boundaries There was a time when I thought that the of the Navajo Nation. Good leadership, community support, economic times of the Depression would proper planning, guidance, and a hard-work- never resurface in the . I had Dr. Gerald Knowles stepped into the picture, ing staff are essential for local governments thought that the stock market would not be gathered the ideas from the local leaders and to move forward. We know that there has to allowed to drop as much as it has. However, drafted a concept paper that by and large be participation at all levels of government since the crash of the housing market those provided the framework of a government and community for these types of initiatives thoughts have become more real as we’ve that would eventually become the Kayenta to be achieved. seen or know of many families that feel the Township. The Kayenta Township could not have effects as they struggle to make ends meet. It began as a simple concept, local gov- moved forward in the 24 years of existence ernance. Local governance meant more if not for the hard working committed In Kayenta, that struggle is all too familiar local control, which meant an opportunity people that envisioned what the leaders had as it has become a way of life for many to determine a new direction that would sought and putting it into action. families. Some even joke and say that the hopefully improve the quality of life for its Depression never left the reservation. residents. With all these improvements in the laws So, to answer the question mentioned at the what remains to be seen is if the changes beginning, it doesn’t have to be that way. Some might ask why is it that way? Does it Since then, the Kayenta Township has in the law will be enough to see a dramatic The recent approval by the Navajo Nation have to be that way? What is left is a feeling matured from a planning board to a Com- impact on the economic activity within the Economic Development Committee for Navajo Nation. of frustration and the need to see change. mission which has implemented ordinances, the delegation of leasing authority to the sales tax collection, a solid waste transfer Kayenta Township is an example of the new The effects or impacts may take a few years In the recent book titled, “Rebuilding Native station, Recreation Park, street lights and laws taking action. Communities have the before an accurate assessment of increased potential and opportunity to change their Nations” the authors discussed reasons why other initiatives that will benefit the com- economic activity is made. However, there current situation and current Navajo laws economic development is struggling on res- munity. is another contributing factor that has and are changing to become more community ervations and wrote about seven challenges will continue to hinder the progress of eco- Today, the Kayenta Township is ready to and business friendly. that tribal governments faced over the last nomic activity on the reservation, which is take the next step by obtaining the author- few decades. Organizational Weakness, the need for new or improved infrastructure. In closing, I believe it is proper to acknowl- ity to conduct Business Site Leasing within Functional Overload, Financial Dependence edge the efforts of so many people that its boundaries. Obtaining the delegation of on Outsiders, A Primary Focus on Program For businesses wanting to locate on the Na- assisted in the delegation of authority to authority to approve and manage business and Service Delivery were all mentioned as vajo Nation the cost of additional infrastruc- approve and manage business site leases site leasing is a tremendous step towards the challenges that “handicapped” tribal govern- ture is sometimes a determining factor of within the boundaries of the Kayenta Town- exercise of local governance. ments. whether they will locate on the reservation ship. or not. In addition, it will improve the way business They said that in the past, tribal govern- We would like to thank: is done on the Navajo Nation as the business Costly infrastructure has always been one Registered Voters of the Kayenta Township ments wanted to assert their tribal authority lease process is tremendously shortened of those challenges that have plagued the Registered Voters of the Kayenta Chapter but were hampered by federal policy that which is a benefit to the business community progress of economic activity within com- Present and Prior Township Commissioners limited their actions and created a sense and to the Navajo Nation overall. munities of the Navajo Nation. Combined Kayenta Planning Board Members of dependency while at the same time with recognition and action on the need to Present and Prior Township Administration tribal people saw their government as a “fix In looking at the bigger picture, the Navajo add or improve the existing infrastructure Present and Prior Chapter Officials everything for everybody” approach. With Nation has also recognized the need for and the addition of leasing authority com- Present and Prior Chapter Administration these perspectives dominating the scene it change in the way that it perceives economic munities can increase their opportunities for 15th, 16th, 17th, 18th, 19th, 20th and 21st was difficult for tribal communities to move development. In the last 10 years, we have economic development. Navajo Nation Council Members forward. seen the Navajo Nation take tremendous Office of the Navajo Nation Chairman and strides in passing legislation that creates Although, the cost of infrastructure is high President there are Navajo communities, such as Tuba Former leaders of Kayenta, such as Albert an improved environment for economic 21st Navajo Nation Economic Development development. City, Chinle, Fort Defiance and Shiprock Bailey, Elwood Saganey and the late Keith Committee that sit in a better position to obtain resourc- Navajo Nation Division of Economic Devel- Smith, had seen and experienced the afore- One of the first things they did was shorten es necessary to add or improve the existing opment mentioned challenges in their local govern- the lease process by removing the BIA from infrastructure. Kayenta Business Association ment. the leasing process and then creating legisla- Navajo Nation Department of Justice tion that would allow local communities the Certainly, there are other LGA-certified Stella Saunders, Frye Law Firm Knowing that Kayenta sat in a place where opportunity to approve and manage their chapters, such as Nahata Dziil, Sheep Patterson Joe the existing laws did not favor economic leases. Springs, Tuba City, that will seek the same 3 Continued from page 1 worked extremely hard. It’s been a NN Council Delegate Roy Laughter, long time coming. We want to take members of the EDC, Karis Begay the time to thank all the leaders who from the Department of Justice, and took the time to make a push to make Jeanette Jones from the Department a better quality of life for our resi- of Economic Development, and the dents. The guidance from our past Kayenta Township staff. and previous Commissioners has been extremely helpful. Certainly A group from the Sheep Springs it’s a milestone, a stepping stone to Chapter also came out from the East- a lot of other opportunities. We are ern Navajo Agency to do a report on looking forward to seeking your ap- the construction of a Tourism and proval,” he said. Welcome Center in Sheep Springs, NM off U.S. Highway 491 near After some deliberation as the role Nashchitti, NM. The Sheep Springs the Township would take in regards Chapter received its Local Gover- to the lease Navajo Shopping Cen- nance Act certification on August 24, ters has with the Navajo Nation, 2007 from the Navajo Nation. Department of Justice attorney Karis Begay discussed several scenarios in After the Committee passed a reso- which issues of management would lution for NTUA, Committee Chair be overlapping. So, once the condi- Lawrence Platero got down to busi- tions as to how the Navajo Shop- ness to address delegation of busi- ping Centers would be “treated” in ness site leasing authority for the negotiating its future lease agree- The Kayenta Town Hall was filled nearly to capacity during the EDC Kayenta Township. Sitting on the ments were addressed, the Navajo meeting held on June 3, 2009 in Kayenta, Arizona. panel for the Township were Legisla- Shopping Center lawyer said that the tion sponsor and Committee member amendment is sufficient. this day has taken weeks and weeks children there who were skating Roy Dempsey, Town Manager Jarvis of preparation and is specifically yesterday at the skate park. I came Williams, and Council Delegate Roy Committee member Katherine focused on a review of business site to recruit them. In fact, Monument Laughter. They sat on the panel with Benally made two amendments, one leasing authority for the Kayenta Valley High School is the highest the Navajo Nation DED Review in regards to the Navajo Shopping Township. We are aware that there number of Gates scholars. I’m tak- Team; Karis Begay, Department of Centers, and another of clarification maybe some detractors and those ing over one half of them with me, Justice; Jeanette Jones, Department to the resolution - without further who maybe in opposition to the ac- back to ASU,” he said. of Economic Development, and Sally discussion, Navajo Nation EDC tions we have taken today. However, Begay from the Regional Business Resolution # 0268-09 passed with a I would like to remind them that they Mr. Zah continued, “The youth I Development Office. vote of 4 in favor and 0 opposed. would have to find their own legisla- spoke with, they really appreciate tor who can address that.” what the community has done. I The Navajo Nation Economic De- “Now, I would like to challenge the spent the night at The View hotel. velopment Committee resolution Commission. First, I venture to say In closing, Madame Chair Helen That was beautiful. There a lot of #0268-09 (that was considered in that maybe we could designate today, Bonnaha thanked everyone for com- tourists. They were from all over conjunction with approving the Busi- June 03 as the Kayenta Economic ing and gave the floor to Peterson America. That’s what it means: ness Site Leasing Management Plan/ Development Sovereignty Day con- Zah, who is currently the special when you do good work, good Administrative) read as follows: An sidering what has taken place today,” advisor to the President on Indian things happen. I want to say a lot Action: Relating to Economic she said. “I also have a challenge for Affairs at of things are happening here. I can Development; Authorizing The Del- the Commission, a challenge for the in Tempe, AZ. He began with some tell you some more stories how well egation Of Approval For Business future commissioners: our neigh- humor, “I was writing notes to my some of these kids are doing today Site Leases To Kayenta Township boring communities bring in a lot of girlfriend when you called on me” he who are from this community.” Administrative and Business Site monies into this town. We would joked. He acknowledged the women Leasing Management Plan And Part like to see some support, maybe part and men on the EDC. “Ashiike, “It is serious business when people II, Standard Terms And Conditions Parks and Recreations, maybe police when you address them as boys, they give you authority. The EDC has For Kayenta Township Business Site enforcement… we ask that you look will usually vote in your favor” he been kind enough to give it to you. Leases (Navajo Trust Land). over us. And this is how I want to joked. It is important how you treat people thank you. I am very thankful for in the community from now. You Town Manager, Jarvis Williams, in this day. This is the first of its kind. “It has taken 24 years. Back then, now have a big responsibility. I’m introducing the delegation of au- Now we are truly looking at commu- there are many council delegates going to be very happy as I drive thority addressed the Committee, “I nities who are looking out for their who supported this concept. Some back into 105 degree weather.” And want to thank the EDC for creating best interests, in this way I want to of them are no longer with us. But, with this a traditional meal was ca- opportunities for communities to go thank the EDC.” today we have with us a handful who tered by the Manymules family, the through this process. It’s good that continue their support: Albert Bailey, people ate Blue Corn meal, hominy the Navajo Nation has the authority As soon as the vote had taken place, Thomas Bailey, Jim Store, I want to stew, watermelon, and their choice of to address these things. We have the chair, Mr. Platero, spoke in clos- thank each one of them. There are a tortillas or frybread. ing: “I want to remind everyone that lot of things that are happening here in this community. There were 4 At the same event, Mr. Nez also Township was to cut the red tape. “Day of the Lady Mustangs” Declared By recognized the Navajo National If the Kayenta Chapter accepts the Navajo County Supervisor Jonathan Nez Monument for their 100-Year Cen- Suburban, it could be another year tennial. From the Navajo National or two before the Veteran’s could Monument, three staff members use the vehicle for transport. Mr. were in attendance and they were Nez stated that, “The Suburban will able to address the Board of Supervi- first have to go to the Navajo Nation sor about their upcoming activities. Department of Transportation and Staff members from the National Fleet Management.” He also cited Park who were in attendance were: an instance where the Nation then Nancy Skinner, Supervisor; Rueben leased the vehicle to another chapter Abrego, Facility Manager, and Rose after “processing the gift into their James, Administrative Officer. inventory” when the Chapter had received a vehicle as a donation, To save time for people traveling to to begin with. “In the end, if the the event, Mr. Nez asked for consid- Kayenta Chapter ends up leasing the eration and discussion of the Kayen- vehicle from the Navajo Nation, it ta Township to receive the Suburban will cease to be a gift from Navajo (from the Navajo County District County,” he said. I Local Transportation Assistance Fund II) on behalf to the Kayenta Jarvis Williams, the Kayenta Town Veteran’s Association. However, Manager, said his staff will do the after a short discussion, the legal necessary paperwork and get the Pictured: L to R Mustang Head Girls Basketball Coach Robert Nash, counsel for the Board of Supervisors resolutions in place by June 8, 2009, MVHS Athletic Director Jacob Holiday, and Navajo County District 1 wanted some clarification. It was in time for the next Board of Super- Supervisor Jonathan Nez (All are Mustang Alumni) requested that the Kayenta Town- visor’s meeting. Then local Veteran ship specifically pass a resolution KAYENTA, AZ - The Navajo Jobbing.com Arena back in March Rick Grey added to the dialogue and accepting the Suburban on behalf of County Board of Supervisors Notice 2009, in a put back shot in the final told the audience that, “The Veter- the Veteran’s instead of the Kayenta of Public Hearings, Meeting, and 3-seconds of the championship an’s Suburban will be used and made Chapter. And, the next agenda item, Agenda for Tuesday, May 26, 2009 game. The season was considered available for all Veteran’s in District they all agreed, should also note the seemed like business as usual, but one of the biggest comeback seasons Kayenta Township as accepting the 8, not just within the Kayenta Chap- on this day at the Kayenta Navajo for the young Lady Mustangs bas- suburban. ter community. Any Veteran that County office, “the historic event” ketball team. Lady Mustangs Coach needs assistance with transportation paved a new trail three-fold as Dis- Robert Nash also topped the season Mr. Nez then spoke to those in atten- to a Veteran’s Hospital can request trict 1 Supervisor Jonathan Nez sat off with Coach of the Year honors. dance that the reason the Suburban transport and we will take them,” he with Kayenta locals and attended the The lady Mustangs ended their sea- would be relinquished to the Kayenta said. meeting by video conferencing. son with a 22 wins and 9 losses (the lady Bulldogs, top seed all season After going through a normal Board long ended their season with 29 wins of Supervisors Meeting agenda and 2 losses against the Lady Mus- items: Pledge of Allegiance, Invo- tangs). cation, Call to the Public, Consent Agenda, and Human Resource items, The Lady Mustangs who were in the District I Supervisor sat along- attendance for the days festivities side the Honorable Susie Nelson and were: Kenisha Begay, Nicolette asked via video conferencing for the Parrish, Chelsea Holiday, Anjilave Navajo County Board of Supervisors Black, Destinee Holiday, Phillisia to consider approving his Proclama- Begay, Deonna Yayzie, and Mariah tion that declared May 26, 2009 as Gilmore. the “Day of the Lady Mustangs.” It passed to huge applause from the The Lady Mustangs were presented Kayenta audience which packed with a plaque acknowledging their Susie Nelson’s chambers. Normally, achievement along with Coach Rob- the meeting room is a court room ert Nash and Athletic Director Jacob where non- go before the Holiday. Afterwards, the Lady Mus- Judge for traffic citations or other tangs, 9 of the team members who court violations. were in attendance, sang “Happy Birthday” to Mr. Jonathan Nez as his The Monument Valley Lady Mus- family members and his wife looked tangs clenched the 3-A State Cham- on. But, when asked later about his Pictured: MVHS Athletic Director Jacob Holiday addresses Navajo pions after defeating #1 ranked age, he smiled and shook his head, County Board of Supervisors using the newly-installed teleconferencing Winslow Bulldogs 47-46 at the “No Comment.” system. 5 Continued from page 1 Keyah Construction, LLC, a 100% Na- a 32-bed adult detention facility with constructed at the site designated for the After several planning sessions, the vajo owned company, was awarded the a 7-bed juvenile holding cell. Phase I future Kayenta Head Start. Township got reassurances from Navajo contract. Given the NAHASDA funding of this project is construction ready. A Tribal Utility Authority on their commit- alone, Keyah Construction estimates it $750,000 grant from the Navajo Nation The site for the Kayenta Head Start ment to move forward on several capital can only build nine [9] homes. The Dry was earmarked and used for design and facility is located ¼ mile north of High- improvement projects. At the meet- Lakes Estates Subdivision Development architecture. The Kayenta Township way 163, directly west of the Kayenta ing at The View in Monument Valley, will include 1) architectural design, will provide an additional $750,000 in Post Office, east of the Tohdenasshai NTUA presented information on their 2) civil engineering (including paving matching funds for the project for con- Shelter Home and Day Care Center. Its Three-Phase natural gas line project in design), 3) survey (design), 4) record struction costs. location is in close proximity to util- Kayenta which was prioritized in several revised plot with Navajo County, ity lines and has direct access to an meetings with the previous 2005-2008 5) KTC development tax, 6) site devel- The Public Safety building which fol- improved road system, which connects Commission. opment, 7) home construction, and 8) lows a master plan, passed by a previous from Highway 163 to a local housing roadway and driveway construction. Kayenta Township Commission, will be complex. The 9.16 mile natural gas line project located on 24-acres of land behind the will now move into its 2nd phase and Due to current construction costs, the current Police Department buildings. The Kayenta Township Commission, the bring natural gas to the southwest end of Kayenta Township needs an additional The overall master plan, a three phase Kayenta Chapter, and local community Kayenta business district. The 1st phase $2,500,000 million in stimulus or other project will include a detention facil- are respectfully requesting stimulus hooked up natural gas lines to Holiday funding to meet the goal of constructing ity, public safety administration offices, funding in the amount of $4,000,000 to Inn, Kayenta Unified School District # 20 home sites. criminal investigations department, provide these critical facilities for a new 27, and the Kayenta Community School. court facilities, prosecutor’s office, and Head Start program. Conversation turned to the planned possibly a juvenile detention center. When questioned why a lot of time busi- 20-housing units called the Dry Lakes The total costs for the Three Phase The Downtown Kayenta Business nesses and residents alike have to pay Estates. The Navajo Housing Author- Public Safety project is projected to cost District out of pocket for utility set ups, NTUA ity committed $2.5 million to complete between $35 to $38 million dollars. The most exciting project currently Manager Wally Chief stated, “NTUA the project, but due to the recent eco- being undertaken by the Kayenta tries to keep its costs lower for its cus- nomic downturn and the rising costs of Sewer Line CIo Funding Township Staff and Commission is the tomers, but the challenge we face,” he construction, the project will need an The Kayenta Township would like to Infrastructure Development on 3-tracts said, “is that we have to cover 25,000 additional $2.4 million to complete all construct a sewer line for a prime busi- of land to be the future business district square miles of the Navajo reserva- 20 homes. ness site area located directly east of of Kayenta, Arizona. Partly, because tion. A lot of times, it is travel alone Highway 163 between the Amigos Café it is based on vision and because it that takes up a lot of their budgeting for The issue of gang activity within NHA and Kayenta Family Chiropractic. The is based on diversifying the business operational costs.” housing units was voiced all around as Kayenta Economic Development Of- district of Kayenta, the April 06, 2009 a huge concern. “When we construct fice has stated that this site has been in Strategic Planning session at the Town The entire Three Phase natural gas new housing units, we need to create an demand for small businesses who want Hall created a lot of interaction between to negotiate a business site lease in this project for the Kayenta community will infrastructure for that community,” Mr. staff and community members. take up 9.16 miles of natural gas line Clitso stated. “Scattered homes projects area. With current growth projections, the Kayenta Township is expected to infrastructure, Jason Denny of NTUA like Dry Lakes Estates only invites more Community Development Director create anywhere from 30 to 50 new jobs reported. The 3rd phase of the project gang activity and juvenile delinquicy,” Gabriel Yazzie, Civil Engineer Don within the next few years. Infrastructure will focus on the tract lands and site of he said. Jackson, and Planner Adrian Holiday the new hospital that is to be located off development is one of the main ob- stacles in attracting businesses to locate provided a Power Point Presentation on N-591 near the current Kayenta rodeo While concerns were discussed at in Kayenta. The Kayenta Township has developing retail, business, and doctor’s grounds. length, participants at the meeting all committed $80,000 in infrastructure offices near the future Kayenta Hospital. agreed that the Dry Lakes Estates is development monies towards this goal. Since the March 23, 2009 work session a project that is inherited and handed The Planner Adrian Holiday’s presenta- and meeting at The View in Monument down from the previous Commission To realize the goal of infrastructure tion focused on creating a community Valley, UT, NTUA right-of-way agent through its community planning. and centralizing a business district that is sustainable, active, and show- Bernice Tsosie has continued to work Commissioner Richard Mike stated that area within the Kayenta Township, cases its history through its buildings, closely with the Township staff. the only way to address gang activity in the infrastructure development project walking trails, and architecture. any community is, “The only thing that needs $68,052.00 in stimulus funding After the NTUA presentations, Stanely will cure the problem of gangs is to cre- to construct 750 feet of sewer pipe and Clitso, Kayenta Chapter President stated ate businesses and jobs.” install 4 Pre-cast Manholes in the prime the need for the Kayenta Chapter and business site area. the Township to come together to begin Kayenta Public Facility Projects addressing several Capital Improvement Architect David R. Sloan has been given

Projects. Because the Navajo Nation the task of completing the Master Plan Head Start Project has put sanctions on the Kayenta Chap- architecture and design for the Kayenta The development of a Head Start Center ter, “A lot of authority has been relin- Public Safety Facility by early May here in Kayenta can begin to serve the quished to the Township, so we need to 2009, so the Kayenta Township can be needs of our Navajo students and future come together,” he said. responsive to the stimulus funding pro- leaders. Currently, over 200 children vided by current U.S. President Barack are on a waiting list to receive a Head Dry Lakes Estates Obama. Dry Lakes Estates received a $2.5 Start education. million grant award from NAHASDA Currently, the Commission is focusing through the Navajo Housing Authority on securing $16 million in funding from The Kayenta Head Start will be located to construct twenty (20) single-family the American Recovery and Reinvest- just west of the Post Office. The Navajo low-income housing on the west end of ment Act to build and develop the Kay Nation Capital Improvement Office Wetherill Heights within the Kayenta enta Public Safety Building Complex, (CIO) allocated $276,000 to the Kay- Township boundaries on a 10-acre tract designed by David Sloan Architects of enta Chapter for the Head Start project. of land. Albuquerque, NM, which consists of Water and Sewer mains have been 6 Continued from page 1 Township Commissioner and local resident. Navajo Elders Bring Their Traditions “The awards, the saddles, horse trail- er, and the added money we’re put- She explained that in the years past, To Kayenta, and Celebrate ting up this year for the contestants is she went to Page, AZ, or to Farming- By Malcolm Benally making this year’s event exciting and ton, NM for the 4th of July week- we are really looking forward to it,” end. But, one year the Bus Divers KAYENTA, AZ – It was a warm says JJ Young. for KUSD #27 (the department she and cool sunny morning in Kayenta, supervises) were being recognized at and the blue sky was scattered with In addition, a Jumbotron TV screen the 4th of July Pow-Wow, she de- distant cumulus clouds promising will be set for instant replays along cided to attend. She was surprised, more rain in various parts of Navajo with a professional rodeo announcer and has since stayed to enjoy the land, as the Elders came into town who will serve as the Master of Cer- festivities. from various parts of the Navajo emony. The rodeo has gone all out Nation to participate in the Western to accommodate a capacity crowd “I can’t believe how many talented Navajo Agency 2009 Elder Fest. this year with a Free-Pancake break- people we have in this community. I This year, the Elder Fest was held on fast open to the public on July 1 and really enjoy the film festival, I watch Thursday, May 28, 2009 courtesy of July 3, it will be held at the Rodeo the fireworks, and the fact that the the Kayenta Township at the Kayen- Grounds beginning at 8:00 am. Then rodeo organizers recognize people ta Recreation Center. The event was on July 4th, the Free-Pancake Break- from the community for their work is hosted, organized, and coordinated fast will be held at the Bashas’ Shop- really neat,” Mrs. Todecheene says. by the Kayenta Senior Center staff. ping Center parking lot beginning at This year she has invited friends and 8:00 am. relatives from as far away as Kansas By 10:30 am, the Kayenta Recre- and Las Vegas, to come and see the ation Center began to fill with grand- The Elders brought their own com- For the Rodeo events, Saturday night festivities. mas and grandpas in their traditional fortable chairs, sipped water, chatted will showcase the Best of the Best. attire. According to the Kayenta with their friends, and enjoyed the Each event in saddle bronc, bull rid- The Kayenta 4th of July Rodeo will Senior Center registration log, over company of those milling around. ing, steer wrestling, etc., will show also host a VIP hospitality suite 20 Chapters participated in the mini- Or, they danced in the song and case top stock for competition. The to receive dignitaries, leaders, and Song and Dance festivities: Many dance competitions. They played Kayenta 4th of July has secured top notable visitors. Extra bleachers will Farms, Oljato, Jeddito, Leechee, games like musical chairs, cake stock from the Willie Cattle Compa- be rented this year to accommodate a Tonalea, Coal Mine, Kaibeto, In- walk, gift boxes, played a dress up ny of Twin Lakes, NM and from the growing audience and crowd. scription House, Hardrock, Rough game, musical chairs, balloon bust, Tsosie Brothers of Table Mesa, AZ. Rock, Chinle, Black Mesa, Shonto, dancing with the broom, hair tying This year on July 4th for the Satur- competition, and for each competi- Although, still in the planning stages, day night evening show beginning at tive event, participants won prizes the Fourth of July attendees can see 7:30 pm, the Best of the Best show, donated by various local organiza- the first Kayenta 4th of July parade contestants and attendees are asked tions. down main-street on Highway 163. to participate in a program called The annual Kayenta Rodeo is known Tough Enough To Wear Pink. The In a short letter to the Kayenta Town- for its 4th of July Fireworks display, Kayenta Rodeo organizers are asking ship inviting Township staff, Pearlina which will be held this year on Sat- and encouraging all rodeo contes- Chiquito writes that the Elder Fest urday night. tants and attendees to wear pink in Day is in celebration and acknowl- support of, and to raise awareness for edgement of the month of May as “I’m not a big rodeo person, but each breast cancer. Older American’s Month. “This year, I go to the 4th of July festivities national celebration of the contribu- mainly to see the fireworks and to For more information about the tions and reverence for older watch films at the Monument Valley Kayenta 4th of July Rodeo, visit the Continued on page 7 Film Festival, which I really enjoy,” website for updates at www.kayen- says Carol Todecheene, Kayenta tarodeo.com. 7 Continued from page6

Americans was launched in 1963 by then U.S. President John F. Kennedy. Each successive U.S. President has continued this tradition of honor- ing these contributions of our older population, and we are proud to join in this national salute to our Elders on the Navajo Nation,” she wrote. For the day’s highlights, Mr. Yo- dell Billah from Tonalea, AZ is the new Mr. Elder 2009. He was also the Oldest Male Elder at 95 years old. Miss Elder 2009 is Rose Marie Johnson from LeeChee Chapter. The Oldest Female Elder was Katherine Wallace, 95 years old. Best Dressed honors went to Eunice Manson from people, and his eventual odyssey as Hardrock, AZ, and the Male Best a Marine. He is one of 280 Navajo Dressed Elder went to Yodell Billah Code Talkers who served dur- from Tonalea, AZ. ing World War II. He was born in Monument Valley, Utah in 1924. Samuel Holiday, who will be 85 Samuel Holiday é7 Samuel Holiday is from Monument years old in June 2009, was one of Tsébii’nidzigaidóó naaghá. Valley, UT. He is 85 years old. He is In this short excerpt from his talk Bitter Water born for Folded Arms the main speakers at the Elder Fest Tseeb7diin dóó bi’22n ashdla’ at the Elder Fest, Samuel Holiday binááhai. Tód7ch77’nii nil9o people. His maternal grandparents are Day. He recounted his early child- mentioned he was about 12 years Bit’ahnii yáshch77n. Tł7z7 Łán7 Many Goats and Black Forest clan are hood to an audience of almost 400 dabicheii dóó Tsi’naajinii dabinál7. his paternal grandparents. old when he saw a White Man for Recently, the Elder Fest was held the first time. The White Man who Ániid Elder Fest Tódineeshzhai’gi baanisiikaigo in Kayenta, AZ and he was a Keynote was a BIA agent around that time, Speaker. This small portion of his nihicheii saad ła’ yee nihich8’ speech talks about going to school. eventually signs him up for school at kóyiilaa. D77 é7 t’óó ch’7daat’3n7go

Tuba City Boarding School. When olta’góó bá ha’dilyaago he turns 18, he is promised a new My mom, she protected me from yaa’hoolne’. the BIA agents, “He herds sheep for home for his Mom, he signs up Sem- me,” she said to them and hid me. It per Fi, and is off to Camp Pendleton, Shimá t’óó, d77 t’é7 was because I became sick that was CA to become a future Navajo Code shaa’áhály3, “D77 shá na’niłkaad” why I went to Tuba City Boarding Talker, eventually to be recognized jin7o sh99 t’óó nashizhnił’in n7t’éé. School. I started school as a with a Congressional Medal of Ako sh33h dahoo’a’7gi binahj8’ “beginner.” All the children were Honor for his service to the United Tónaneesdiz7di Boarding School small and I was the tallest one in ák== shi’deeg9. adi “beginner” school. At that time I was told I had States in April 2000. Á áádóó haiyá. Ałchin7 ádaałts77s7 to learn a whole new way of life, “You bił da’77n7shta’ sh7t’éi 1yó7 will speak English only” I was told. So, the Western Navajo Agency 2009 ‘7nisnéezo. Áádi é7 n7lé7 t’ah So, I had the hardest time of my life was filled with history, education, n7t’éé k’ad é7 kodóó bilagáanaa from here. I had to assimilate as a culture, and a deep reverence for the bóhoo’aa’, “bilagáanaaj7 t’éiyá bilagáanaa. Everything here like the prayers, “This is not allowed, speak Navajo language. Today, Samuel yán7łti’doo” shi’doo’niid. Ako, “I English only” I was told. The Navajo had the hardest time of my life Holiday is a medicine man. language is all I knew. It was not from here.” Bilagáanaa éid7go possible for me to respond in English. 7nda bóhoosh’aahgo. Áádóó t’áá So this is the way, “I tried to doole’é d77 sodizinda ádaat’é, “$7 learn.” I learned to speak English t’éi dooda bilagáanaa k’ehj7 away from home…. t’éiyá” shi’di’n7o. D77 Diné k’eh yáti’7g7 t’é7 shił bééhózin. I realized the Navajo language is Áádóó bilagáanaa k’ehj7 beautiful. We won the war. “It h11’doodzih7g7 doo shił shortened the war, and saved my life.” bééhózinda ádin. Ákóho d77’ át’áo, “I tried to learn.” Bilagáanaa bóhóósh’aah n7t’éé’ hon7’22di.

$7 biniinaa nihizaad7g7 ts’7dá nizh=n7go át’éélá. Bee honeezná. “It shortened the war, and saved my life.” 8 2nd Annual Kayenta Skate Competition Talk of Skateboarders who will compete this year will come from as far away as Fort Duschene, Utah, and from California. Last year, the skateboard competition had 35 com- petitors, and is expected to grow this year.

As a Skater, Cheyton Kelsey has traveled throughout Arizona, Loui- siana, Colorado, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Texas, and California to promote the event and to participate in skate competitions. He said he’s received a really good response so far and many of his contacts are planning to come to Kayenta this By Malcolm Benally year, or sometime in the future.

KAYENTA, AZ – The Kayenta area Cheyton says, “The purpose of the local skateboarders want to host for event is to give back to the local this year the Second Annual Kayenta youth in our communities. To show Skate Competition on Saturday, June positivity through the expression of 27, 2009 at the Kayenta Recreation skateboarding, ages 7 – 18 years old Center. This year, as an addition are eligible compete.” to the Skateboard competition, the event will feature the Battle of the As an active organizer for the local Bands which will all take place from youth, he says the Skateboard and 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. Competition “allows a showcase of local community skaters to compete Some of the bands who are sched- and practice before the 4th of July uled to perform as a part of Battle Skateboard Competition”, which will of the Bands are My Philosophy Of be open to the public and the Navajo Euthanasia, Ashtaroth (Tucson, AZ), Nation. “The primary people who From The Depths Of A Nightmare will benefit from this competition are (Phoenix, AZ), One Bullet Away the kids in our local neighborhoods (Local Band), F.A.M.E., Implicit and their families. The youth will (Local Band), Firewater, Regicide, be given a day to give back, in ex- Five Cellars Below, Let The World change for a little exposure to show Die, The Braskies, and F-Holes. how talented they are” he says. The Skate Competition will begin Kayenta 2009 JMI Schedule For more information about the DATES LOCATIONS warm-ups at 10 am. The Competi- event, please call (623) 313-6363. June 4 ...... Chilchinbeto Chapter House tion will include categories for 12 June 10 ...... Peabody Central Warehouse June 11 ...... Dennehotso Chapter House and Under, ages 13 to 17, and ages June 19 ...... Navajo Monument National Park June 25 ...... Monument Valley Tribal Park 18 and Up. The Competition and July 3 ...... Kayenta Wells Fargo Bank July 8 ...... IHHC Trail of the Sage Battle Of The Bands will be FREE July 9 ...... Oljato Chapter House July 16 ...... Mexican Hat Elementary School and Open to the Public. July 23 ...... Shonto Preparatory School July 31 ...... Navajo Mountain Pioneer Day The day’s events are sponsored by Registration starts at 6:00PM and start times are at 7:00PM at all locations. Apache Skateboards from San Car- All participants will receive a 2009 Just Move It T-shirt! All Events are non-competitive and free. Some JMI Sites may include a 5K Run and Screening. los, AZ. Douglas Miles, owner of Please eat a healthy snack before JMI. Wear sunscreen and a hat and bring water.

Apache Skateboards will be part of JMI Partners/Sponsors: the judging of the competition and Hooghan Project, Nutrition Department, IHS Security, Navajo Health Education Program, CHR, KPHN, Breast & Cervical Cancer Prevention Project, Navajo Family Planning Network, Navajo EMS, Kayenta Police Department, his business will provide prizes for Kayenta Township Commission, 7 Local Chapters, National Monument Park Service, Shonto Trading Post, Crossroads Trading Post, Inscription House Market Trading Post, Shonto Preparatory Schools, NaaTsis’aan Community School, competition winners. Navajo Mountain High School, Ts’ah Bii Kin Senior Center, Utah Navajo Health Systems Inc., Peabody Western Coal Company, Inscription House Health Center, Kayenta Health Center, Healthy Heart Project, Kayenta Family Chiropractic, Blue Coffee Pot, Holiday Inn, McDonalds, Kayenta Fourth of July Rodeo Committee, Kayenta Bashas, Bronston’s Tax Service, Gouldings Lodge & Store, Rezolution Skateboards hailing from Kayenta Video Plus, Navajo Gas & Oil Company, and Local Partners

Oakland, CA is another sponsor to For more information, call The Kayenta Service Unit this year’s event. This is their first Health Promotion Program @ (928) 697-4249 or Hooghan Project @ (928) 697-4210. Ahe’hee. year as a part of the competition. 9 The 3rd Annual Monument Valley Film Festival Shocases the Talents of Native Film Makers By Malcolm Benally KAYENTA, AZ - The 3rd Annual and editing was done by Daniel Monument Valley Film Festival Goulding, and produced by Ah-Mut will be held this year at the Kayenta Pipa Foundation. The documentary Town Hall on July 3rd, 4th, and 5th, runs for 35 minutes, but explores 2009. For the past two years, the critical issues for the Quechan film festival has showcased Native people. filmmakers from throughout North The 3rd Annual Monument Valley Film Festival America right here in Kayenta, Ari- “Journey From Spirit Mountain” is July 3,4 and 5, 2009 - Kayenta, Arizona zona. a documentary about the Quechan traditional life ways and a close look This year, two feature films “Mo- at the oral traditions and songs of cassin Flats,” “Barking Water” and indigenous peoples. Preston Ar- 10 documentary features: “The rowhead, a Quechan elder, sings and Grafitti”, “Weaving Worlds”, “The describes the placement of the Light- Battle for White Clay”, “Our Spirits ning Song in space and time continu- Don’t Speak English”, “Geronimo”, um of Quechan traditions, life ways, “Wounded Knee”, and “Waila: Mak- and migrations throughout time. ing The People Happy”, “A Journey From Spirit Mountain”, “Ayaa: A For those who missed the PBS We Hero’s Journey”, and “We Shall Shall Remain documentary series The Battle For White Clay: A campaign to end alcohol sales in the place Remain: The Navajo” will showcase in the month of June, the MV Film Nebraska newspapers have dubbed “Skid Row on the Prairie.” Film- and highlight the MV Film Festival. Festival will screen “Geronimo”, maker Mark Vasina has devoted 5 years to filming and reporting on “Wounded Knee”, and “We Shall this tragic and compelling story. All the films to be shown are made Remain: The Navajo.” A review of by Native people or are Native the We Shall Remain series received The organization provided work- otherwise, be unable to find a venue Themed films that deal with various over 425 views on the Kayenta blog shops for the youth to get hands-on to view Native made films. Most of political or social subject matters in site: www.kayentatownship.net/ experience with filmmaking. This these films are usually not readily Indian Country today. For this year, blog. year, Outta Your Back Pack Media available to the general public and there are over 30 entries, includ- submitted 19-short films as public are primarily screened at other Na- ing short films, feature films, and Another remarkable feature of the service announcements, short docu- tive American film festivals far away documentary features, which will be MV Film Festival provides is that mentaries, music videos, and script- from most Indian reservations. screened over a three-day period. it provides a venue for the youth, ed narratives that showcases the very whereas other filmmakers are more real talent of our youth today. In return, of showcasing the film- One of the most remarkable entries competitive in nature. This year making talents in Native America, this year is from Yuma, AZ. “A Outta Your Back Media, a non-profit The Monument Valley Film Festi- viewing of the films during the fes- Journey From Spirit Mountain” can- organization from Flagstaff, AZ, val, now entering its third year, is tival will be FREE. It should also be didly deals with language and culture deals with bringing “media justice” the only film festival of its kind that noted that a majority of the films to loss. All the directing, video-graphy, to the forefront of Native America. is held here on the Navajo Nation. be screened are created and produced The purpose of the film festival is to by the youth. bring Native made films to the peo- For more information, please visit ple of the Navajo Nation who would, www.monumentvalleyfilmfest.com

Barking Water: Director Sterlin Harjo takes viewers on a road trip The award winning film “Our Spirits Don’t Speak English: Indian through his own personal Oklahoma, which includes an eclectic mix of Boarding School” is a Native American perspective on Indian Boarding humanity. Schools. 10 11 3RD ANNUAL MONUMENT VALLEY FILM FESTIVAL JULY 3 - 5 2009 - KAYENTA, AZ

FREE ADMISSION - FILM SCREENINGS 10AM - 10PM DAILY KAYENTA TOWN HALL 100 N. HIGHWAY 163 SPONSORED BY SHEEPHEAD FILMS - THE KAYENTA TOWNSHIP - MVHS GRAPHIC ARTS CLUB

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT: WWW.MONUMENTVALLEYFILMFEST.COM PARENTAL ADVISORY: SOME FILMS MAY NOT BE SUITABLE FOR CHILDREN UNDER 18

KAYENTA 4th of JULY POW WOW JULY 3-4, 2009 MVHS STUDENT ACTIVITY CENTER

FOR MORE INFORMATION: (928) 697-8445 OR (928) 697-3159 NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR LOST ITEMS, THEFT, DAMAGES, INJURIES AND SHORT FUNDED TRAVELERS 2003 • 2004 • 2005 • 2006 • 2007 • 2008 Major Events Entry Information Events Limit Entry Fee Added Money Long & Short Go Rodeo Performances Bareback 20 $120.00 $1500.00 2 Go-Round Host AIRCA Saddle Bronc 30 $120.00 $1500.00 Top Ten Co-Sanctioned: CNRA Bullriding 60 $140.00 Day Money Included $1500.00 Top Ten Thursday July 2nd, 1st Performance 7:30 p.m. Calf Roping No Limit $120.00 $1500.00 Top Ten AIRCA Rules Apply Steer Wrestling No Limit $120.00 $1500.00 Top Ten Stock Contractor: Tommy Tsosie Rodeo Company - Rough Stock Friday July 3rd Morning Slack 8:00 a.m. Team Roping No Limit(2x) $240.00 $3000.00 Top Ten Timed Event: Willie’s Cattle Company Friday July 3rd, 2nd Performance 7:30 p.m. Barrel Racing No Limit $120.00 $1500.00 Top Ten Break Away Roping No Limit $120.00 $1500.00 Top Ten CES Rodeo Secretary: Benita Jaye Saturday July 4th, 3rd Performance 12:00 pm Rodeo Stock fee included in Entry Fee. P.O. Box 4197 • Gallup, NM 87305 Saturday July 4th, Final Performance 7:30 pm (Short Go) Bareback event: TWO (2) GO ROUND FORMAT will be implemented. Home: 505-735-2117 • Cell: 505-860-1750 Bullriders will have to mail Entry Fee before June 26th, 2009 Two Sections During Each Performance TOUGH ENOUGH TO WEAR PINK? Call In: June 15, 2009 : 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. (Saturday Night) Bullriders: Open Slots will be open to walkin entry on July 1st, 2009 Morning slack on Thursday July 3, 2009 8:00 a.m. Steer Wrestling, Team Roping, Call In: June 16, 2009 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Break Away Roping, Calf Roping and Barrel Racing. Call Backs: June 17, 2009 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Awards Walk In Entry: Wednesday, July 2, 2009 12:00 p.m. t0 6:00 p.m. Minor Events (Kayenta Holiday Inn Lobby)

Trophy Saddles for each Major Event Champion Events Limit Entry Fee Added Money Jr. Barrel Racing No Limit $65.00 $100.00 All Around Award - Three Horse Slant Trailer Jr. Bullriding No Limit $65.00 $100.00 Country Dances 50+ Sr. Breakaway No Limit $65.00 $200.00 (Proudly Sponsored by: Kayenta Burger King & Kayenta Hampton Inn) #12 Incentive Team Roping No Limit $240.00 $300.00 9:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. Belt Buckle to each Minor Event Champion Rodeo Stock fee included in entry fee Thursday July 2nd - Stone Country All Minor Events will be held in the Morning Slack July 3, 2009 8:00 a.m. Friday July 3rd - Ace’s Wild Saturday July 4th - Ace’s Wild - Stone Country Junior Rodeo Free Pancake Breakfast

July 1st 2009 • 8:00 A.M. Sharp July 1 & 3, 2009 • 8:00 a.m. Kayenta Rodeo Grounds Kayenta Rodeo Grounds July 4th, 2009 • 8:00 a.m. Bashas Parking Lot

I.J.R.A. Rules Apply CES: Alfreda Bates / Vickey Pablo (505) 786-5586 or (505) 979-2744 Fireworks Display Call In: June 29, 2009 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Walk In: June 30, 2009 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Kayenta Rodeo Grounds • July 4th 2009 • 10:00 p.m. HOTEL RATES FOR CONTESTANTS (Holiday Inn Lobby) Proudly Sponsored By: Kayenta Township & Kayenta Chapter Contestant Will Need To Show Proof for Rates Entry must be in paid in full by June 30, 2009 6:00 p.m. Kayenta Holiday Inn Official Rodeo Headquarter Saddles To High Point Winner to Cowboy & Cowgirl For Reservations Call: (928) 697-3221

Rodeo Sponsors Will Not Be Held Liable For any Damages, Accidents, or Theft That Occur Before, During and after the Rodeo.

Theme “America the Beautiful” July 4, 2009 • 10:00 a.m Contact: 928.697.3571 Applications available at: kayentarodeo.com, Kayenta Chapter & Kayenta Township

Parade Sponsors Will Not Be Held Liable For any Damages, Accidents, or Theft That Occur Before, During and after the Parade.