Fireworks by Moonlight Page 6

The Turtle Speaks Gyah’-Wish

Volume 24, Issue 3 www.wyandotte-nation.org August 2020

Gyah’-wish Atak-ia is published quarterly for Tribal Citizens by the Wyandotte Nation at its Inside: headquarters in Wyandotte, Okla. • Plans move forward on Park City property The Wyandotte Nation (918) 678-2297 • COVID-19 leads to event cancellations 64700 E Hwy 60 (800) 256-2539 • Annual Meeting still set for Sept. 12 Wyandotte, OK 74370 Fax (918) 678-2944

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

Board of Directors From the Chief Billy Friend Chief...... Billy Friend Second Chief.....Norman Hildebrand, Jr. Councilperson...... Ramona Reid Councilperson...... Vivian Fink Councilperson...... Juanita McQuistion Working hard to serve you Councilperson...... Eric Lofland

Kweh, I hope this quarter’s Turtle Some of the work we now do is away some great news on May 20 when Talk finds all doing well and enjoy- from the office, but the work contin- the Assistant Secretary of the Bu- ing their summer during our current ues to get done. Much of our com- reau of Indian Affairs, Tara Sweeney Content conditions. munication now is tele-conference, called and informed us that she During this unprecedented time, I video conference, email and text had just signed the notice of intent Annual Meeting Notice...... 3 want to take the time to let you know almost exclusively. It is a big change, to accept our 10.53 acres of land in Park City Update...... 4-5 that the main concern of our tribal but we are handling it and getting Park City, Kansas, into trust for COVID-19 Cancellations...... 5 government, now and in the future, the work done. We have a great team gaming purposes. The battle to take Casinos Reopen...... 5 is to provide service to the Wyan- here at the Wyandotte Nation and I this land into trust actually began Fireworks Display...... 6 dotte people. Those of us who serve have watched our team grow stron- when we were first informed in 1993 Tribal Department Reports...... 7-12 you in your government are working ger and work more efficiently than that it did not qualify for gam- Important Numbers...... 11 hard to continue that service. ever before during this pandemic. ing purposes and was denied. We The health and wellbeing of our You should take pride in the fact our re-applied again in 2006 and have people continues to drive our deci- people are adjusting well and are fought for the last 14 years to have sion making. We are dedicated to committed to effective action that this land taken into trust for gaming serving the needs of Wyandotte produces good results for the Wyan- purposes. We have now started the Editor/Design: William Swaim people regardless of the challenges dotte people. process of putting up a temporary Cover Photo: we encounter. Our staff here at the The Bearskin Clinic has done an gaming facility to establish gaming Fireworks dis- Wyandotte Nation has continued outstanding job adapting and im- and are working on a master plan play at the Pow- to go above and beyond their job provising during this unprecedented for a larger development. We will be Wow grounds. descriptions to ensure services are time and should be commended for sharing more about this project in Photo by continue to be provided. all they have done working on the the future, but this is a great victory William Swaim We are now operating in a new front lines fighting this pandemic for the Tribe and will help us secure reality and we have instituted a while still providing excellent care to a better future for our nation. number of changes to adjust to the our patients. We are providing drive- You and your family continue to current environment. We have lost through testing for all citizens who be the focus of all our efforts. We are a significant percentage of our tribal make the request. We have also put doing our business much differently, Contact Us revenue. We were prepared finan- in place rapid testing equipment that but who we serve has not changed. cially to cope with a crisis situation. expedites testing and results. Our job is to keep your government Submit a story idea or your latest news Our team had the insight to set aside The key for us has been our early running at a high level, and to make and photos. To submit, email William funds and have reserves in place. actions. We established health and sure you are healthy, safe and get- Swaim at [email protected] or call We didn’t know we would be specifi- safety guidelines early on. As a result, ting what you need from those of us (918) 932-4778. cally facing a pandemic, but we were we believe, we have experienced fewer who serve you. May God bless you prepared for a crisis situation. cases within the Wyandotte Nation. and your family and keep you safe Have News? Your government is functioning. On a very positive note we received during these trying times. Share it We want to hear from you! Send us news or stories you may have or suggest features for us to work on. From the Second Chief Norman Hildebrand, Jr. Email: [email protected] Coping with a crazy new reality

www.youtube.com/WyandotteNation Kweh Omateru for a while. Go out into nature, sit all members of our great little com- Hello my friends, I hope everyone by a creek or a lake or take a walk in munity here. I hope all of our tribal is coping with the crazy world we the woods, clear your head and enjoy citizens all across this country stay are living in right now. With riots, what God has given us, and hope- safe and do not become a statistic to protests, racial issues, politics and fully gain a better perspective. this pandemic. pandemics it seems that nothing Wyandotte is in a rural area so we Now for some history I think you is going to be solved anytime soon. have not been affected by the pan- will find this interesting. www.facebook.com/WyandotteNation This upheaval will probably be with demic like other areas in the country. us for a while until people start com- But we have still taken precautions ing to their senses and just chill out to protect our employees, elders and See SECOND CHIEF, Page 3 August 2020 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 3

“In order to deserve, we must pay our dues and steadi- 2nd Chief ly work for perfection. We must relish in struggle, and own. After donning his feathers and Continued from Page 2 paint, feasting, and giving honor to relinquish pride. We must dispel fear and seek enlight- his totem, the Wenroronon war chief Why did Iroquoian cousin fight collected his weapons and walked a Iroquoian cousin in one of the most enment. We must shun division and honor love. We short distance to the village of the accidentally decisive wars in history? must know our hearts and seek to understand others. Seneca war chief. At this time the The oral traditions of the Huron- Wenroronon and Seneca tribes were Wyandot people say it was because We must try, live, create, feel, grow and love.” said to be the closest of friends. of a beautiful young woman and her -- Bryant McGill After locating his friend, the Wen- evil scheme for blood revenge. In the roronon war chief brutally killed the story, the ancestors of the Huron- Seneca war chief in front of family Wyandot were named as the instiga- and friends. The anger that raged tors -- they were simply identified people had named themselves. The approval. The war chief was now inside the heart of the Wenroronon as being Wyandot. At this point in name Wenroronon is the name the inspired to obtain her as his mate war chief was pure. The brutality time, whenever this may have been, Wendat people called their cousins. beyond the encouragement and dare inflicted upon the Seneca war chief a tribe by the name of Wyandot did There was a beautiful young of the village’s young men. was nothing less than the rage of a not exist. The Seneca were named as woman of the Wenroronon who all After several advancements, rabid wolf. In his rage the Wenro- the recipients of the Wyandot’s ill- the young men in her village desired the beautiful young woman finally ronon war chief was convinced that fated decision; however, like with the as their mate. The problem was she consented to the war chief’s proposal; every blow he delivered to his best name Wyandot, a tribe by the name wanted nothing to do with the young however, the young woman had a friend, were blows given to the body of Seneca did not exist. There is no men. After many failed attempts proposal and condition of her own. of his devious mate -- who would doubt the two tribes existed, but by by the young men to claim her as The young woman would not divulge never be his mate. what name they called themselves their mate, they gave up. In frus- her condition until the war chief In retaliation, the warriors of the is unknown. Over time as the war tration the young men approached swore an oath upon his reputation Seneca people vowed to destroy the fizzled onward, as a never-ending the village war chief who had an and honor as the greatest warrior Wenroronon people from the Great blood feud, the Europeans arrived to outstanding reputation as a warrior. of the Wenroronon people. The war Island. A simple blood feud turned the Great Island. After their arrival, The young men told the war chief, if chief’s answer was an immediate no. into outright war. A friendship be- and self-serving interests came into one of them could not have the young No, he would not consent to doing tween peoples that had existed since play, the complexion and complex- woman as their mate, he should something without first knowing the beginning of time was destroyed. ity of the war began to change. The be the one to have her as his mate. what! The young men of the village The warriors of the Seneca people tradition of the blood feud, found They believed with his reputation teased and encouraged the war chief came close to fulfilling their oath; among the Iroquoian tribes, festered the young woman quickly accept his to accept the young woman’s offer however, after many years of war the into a policy of eradication and total proposal. At this time it was a tradi- before she changed her mind. Again, Seneca failed. The Huron warriors conquest. tion that all the young women and with great reluctance the war chief fought the Seneca warriors to a truce It is generally believed, even with men of the tribe fulfill their duties finally consented to doing as the with the help of their Algonquian little archaeological evidence, the and keep the clans well populated. young woman wished. It was then allies, the Ottawa, Potawatomi, Wenroronon lived alongside the The war chief reluctantly agreed to the young woman whispered her evil and Chippewa. This is how the war Seneca on the southern side of Lake participate in this new kind of ‘love- desire---kill the war chief of the Sen- between Iroquoian cousins nearly Ontario. The Wenroronon have been war game.’ After being convinced the eca. The Seneca war chief had killed destroyed the Great Island. During identified as a tribe of the Neutral war chief donned his finest regalia the young woman’s brother and she the war many different cultures Confederacy and likely one of the and looked nobly impressive. The wanted blood revenge. and traditions disappeared from the oldest, largest, and strongest tribes war chief approached the young The Wenroronon war chief imme- Great island. in the region. We know that one of woman with confidence and in a diately refused. The war chief of the I hope you enjoyed that story and the three parent tribes of the Huron- most spectacular way only to feel her Seneca had been his closest friend remember with actions come conse- Wyandot was the Wenroronon; there- rejection. No Wenroronon war chief since childhood. The young woman quences. I thought it was interesting fore, I will change the oral tradition ever turned his back to a challenge then threatened to announce to the and hope you did too. I have said this just a touch and name the Wyandots and good fight. This love-war game whole of the tribe that the war chief many times but I am proud to serve in the story as the Wenroronon. Even had now become a fight not only was a coward in disguise who hid be- the Wyandotte Citizens as Second by doing this we fall short of truly to preserve the war chief’s dignity, hind his feathers and paint. The war Chief of the greatest Indian Nation identifying the name by which the but if possible, the young woman’s chief was now without a choice of his in the country.

Public Notice

Notice of Annual Meeting will begin at 9 am and the Annual The Election Committee of the Wy- tribe’s annual meeting on Saturday, On September 12, 2020 the Meeting will start at 10 am. Please andotte Nation has determined that September 12, 2020 per the Wyandotte Wyandotte Nation shall hold their note that citizens will be required there are no contested posts for elective Nation Constitution. Annual Meeting at the Bearskin to present their Wyandotte Nation office within the government of the Wy- -- Dee Killion, Chairman, Election Fitness Center Gymnasium near membership/citizenship card to andotte Nation for 2020. Therefore, it is Committee Wyandotte, Oklahoma. Registration register for the meeting. not necessary to hold an election at the Page 4 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia August 2020 Persistence and Perseverance on the Master Plan for the larger casino and resort. Plans for Park Chief Friend said it has also been important to have communication with local and state leaders in the City property area. “We have been in constant communication with Park City officials over the last 12 years and have just move forward recently sat down with Kansas Gov- ernor Laura Kelly to make introduc- By William Swaim tions and to communicate to her that Wyandotte Nation we would be submitting a compact in the future to conduct class 3 gam- If there is one thing Wyandotte ing.” Nation Chief Billy Friend has In addition to the 10.5 acres, the learned from the tribe’s history, it’s Tribe also purchased approximately persistence leads to perseverance. another 109 acres of land that is con- In the case of the Tribe’s efforts tiguous to the trust land. Since all to conduct gaming on 10.5 acres it the gaming must take place on the purchased back in 1991 in Park City, 10.5 acres, the additional land allows Kansas, Chief Friend said it once William Swaim / File Photo the Tribe to put other amenities such again proved true. He said once the Slot machines at the River Bend Casino & Hotel. Plans are underway to open a as parking, hotel, entertainment, etc. Tribe won the legal battle on the casino in Park City after land owned by the Tribe was put into trust. on the additional acreage. Kansas City property in 2006 (7th “Our goal is to see all the addition- Street Casino), he re-submitted the al lands used as retail, restaurants, application to take the Park City several times to make sure it wasn’t has been a part of many decisions and other economic development land into trust at the end of 2006 to a dream or I was suffering from heat made the past several years regard- opportunities,” Chief Friend said. the Regional BIA office in Oklahoma. exhaustion.” ing economic development of the “This has been a long awaited day It was forwarded in January 2009 to What it means to the Tribe is the Wyandotte Nation. WTOK is the for the Wyandotte Nation and we the central office in Washington, DC. ability to conduct gaming on the federally-chartered corporation of believe there are endless possibilities From 2009 until the land was taken property in Park City. the Wyandotte Nation. with the development of this proper- into trust, the Tribe sued the federal “The city (Park City) has always “Through all of the years of grow- ty. It will further enable us to fulfill government and received a denial, been a supporter of the Tribe gaming our enterprises, we focused on our mission of improving the quality but he said they remained persistent ing there because they know it will managing cash flow and debt so of life of every tribal citizen.” knowing that the law was always on produce jobs in their community and that when the time came to build Carpino said the land is in an the Tribe’s side. spur further economic development the Park City property, we would ideal location for what they want “I was at home mowing my yard in their community,” Chief Friend be prepared,” Carpino said. “After a to do, adding it has always repre- when I received a call from Tara said. “We all believe that the casino long, persistent effort, the land is in sented a significant opportunity for Sweeney, the Assistant Secretary of will create a synergy and will bring trust and we are ready and able to the Wyandotte Nation’s economic the Bureau of Indian Affairs, inform- added long-term development in the move full steam ahead.” development. ing me that she had just signed area.” Carpino said the goal is to have a notice of intent to take our land into From an economic standpoint, Wy- temporary facility with 500 Class II trust,” Chief Friend said of the May andotte Tribe of Oklahoma (WTOK) slot machines open in November. At 20 phone call. “I had to pinch myself CEO Kelly Carpino said Park City the same time, they will be working See PARK CITY, Page 5 August 2020 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 5 Cultural events cancelled; Annual PARK CITY Continued from Page 4 Meeting still set for Sept. 12 “From a gaming perspective, our location is very accessible and We will have our constitutionally re- For those who may not feel comfort- tinue to monitor the situation and hope offers a large regional population. quired Annual Meeting Saturday, Sept. able sitting in the meeting or may be to host a showcase in Spring 2021. Chief Although we will face some competi- 12. Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 high risk for the virus, you may pick up Billy Friend and the Board of Directors tion south of us, the Park City site situation and the need for social distanc- your packets at a designated area. There understand this is unfortunate, but the is viewed as a prime location that ing, we are limiting the meeting to only will be more information coming in the health and safety of our citizens, guests, will draw a substantial local and Wyandotte citizens ages 18 up. We are near future, so please check the Tribe’s and employees rates most important. tourist market. There are not many also making plans to livestream the An- website (www.wyandotte-nation.org) and In addition, due to the continuing threat of these areas left in the country. nual Meeting and will post details on our Facebook page (www.facebook.com/WY- of the COVID-19 virus, we have regret- This ultimately means continued website and Facebook page. andotteNation) for further updates. tably had to cancel our Tribal Town Hall economic growth, which is essential We will serve lunch at their Title 6 The Wyandotte Nation Board of Meetings scheduled for this fall in both facility, but it will be drive through and Director’s have also made the difficult Southern and North Central California. in meeting our mission of improving carryout only. Also, there will be no decision to cancel the 2020 Pow-Wow, Our hope is that we can reschedule them the lives of Wyandotte citizens.” childcare available, but Heritage Acres the Gathering and Wyandotte Artisan both for next Spring. We will keep you Park and Splash Pad will be available. Showcase for 2020. Leadership will con- informed as we make plans for next year. Casinos reopen VACANCY June 1 in ANNOUNCEMENT: The Wyandotte Nation Tribal Wyandotte, Court is in search of (2) two individuals to fill the positions of Supreme Court Justices. To be Kansas City eligible for selection or confirma- The Wyandotte Nation reopened tion as a Justice of the Supreme its 7th Street Casino in Kansas City, Court, a person shall: if an Kansas, and River Bend Casino & Hotel attorney, be a licensed attorney in Wyandotte, Okla., June 1 with safety who is in good standing with measures and guidelines put in place to the licensing authorities where ensure the safety of its employees, guests licensed; who possesses a demon- and communities. The Lucky Turtle strated background in tribal court Casino in Wyandotte will remain closed practice, and have demonstrated with a time and date of reopening still to moral integrity and fairness in his be determined. business, public and private life, A number of safeguards in place at each location. Both properties are follow- and have never been convicted of ing recommended sanitation procedures a felony or an offense punishable for using safe chemicals and cleaning by banishment, whether or not surfaces. Signage was placed reminding actually imprisoned or banished, guests of physical distancing and hygiene. and have not been convicted of The River Bend Casino & Hotel any offense, except traffic of- reopened with the following changes: fenses, for a period of two years • Club 60 West will be closed with a preceding his appointment. The time and date of reopening still TBD. two year period shall begin to • Meeting spaces will be closed with a run from the date the person was time and date of reopening still TBD. • Hotel occupancy reduced to 50%. unconditionally released from su- • Reduced occupancy limits of 30% pervision of any sort as a result of to the casino floor and Twin Bridges a conviction. The candidate must Restaurant and the Deli. have regularly abstained from the • No Sunday buffets. Tables removed excessive use of alcohol and use of and spaced for social distancing. Sneeze illegal drugs or psychotoxic chemi- guards installed in customer service cal solvents. The candidate must locations. not be less than (25) twenty-five years of age. 7th Street Casino reopened with the Indian preference will apply for following changes: • Reduced occupancy to 25 percent for qualified candidates. the casino floor. Please submit your resume or • Café seating reduced. CV to Deana Howard, Human • Sneeze guards installed in customer Resources Director at dhoward@ service locations. wyandotte-nation.org. Page 6 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia August 2020

Fireworks Celebration! Photos by William Swaim

The Tribe held it's annual Fireworks Display and celebration Thursday, July 2 at the Wyandotte Nation Pow-Wow Grounds. The Diversity Band opened the evening with music and vendors were on hand selling various items. August 2020 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 7 Tribal Department Reports

Human Resources his family, playing with grandkids things, and spends as much time out- July 1 and Sept. 30, and a couple Submitted by Deana Howard, HR (10 in total) and studying the word side exploring new places with them. programs funded by the CARES Act Director of God. John has been married for 36 We are very fortunate to have Cindy that are currently available as well years to a Wyandotte tribal citizen on our team and wish her much suc- as Annual Meeting and enrollment The Education Department is very and is a member of the Wyandotte cess in her new position. information. happy to welcome Sonia Ipock as Honor Guard. We are very happy to The Facilities Department is also The School Supply Program Early Childhood Nurse; Kacey Lewis have John join our team and wish very excited to welcome Darren started July 1 and is available to all to her new position as Administra- him much success in his new posi- Workman and James Heffren into students nationwide pre-k (must be tive Assistant; John Webb into a tion. custodian positions. at least 3 and enrolled in a qualified Custodian/Bus Driver Position; Sara Sara Wright, a Darren graduated from Nevada learning program) through grade Wright as a substitute and Debbie tribal citizen and High School. In his spare time, 12. Each student is eligible for up Bussey and Ellen Chrisos in joining our Wyandotte he enjoys hunt- to $100 for school supplies, cloth- the Education and Title VI Depart- Nation Princess, ing, fishing, and ing, backpacks, lunch boxes, etc. ments as Substitutes. enjoys spending gardening. Darren Walmart gift cards are available for Sonia Ipock has her Bachelor’s in time with her fam- also enjoys spend- tribal citizens who reside in Oklaho- Nursing. She has several years’ expe- ily. Sara’s hobbies ing time with his ma, Arkansas, Kansas and Missouri, rience. In her spare include Culture, girlfriend doing and students nationwide will be re- time she enjoys Pow Wows, and whatever and going imbursed for expenses. Please note gardening, paint- drawing. We are to flea markets. He that all applications and receipts ing, serving and WRIGHT very fortunate to also enjoys spend- must be original so they will either teaching people to have Sara on our ing time with his need to be mailed or hand delivered. sew and visiting team and wish her much success in only daughter. We Applications for both the gift card WORKMAN flea markets and this position. are very happy to and the reimbursement program are antique stores. She Debbie Bussey have Darren on our Facilities team available on the website homepage also enjoys spend- is retired from and wish him much success in his as well as a one page information ing time with her the postal service new position. page with details about the program. husband, visiting and enjoys spend- James gradu- IPOCK Applications MUST be postmarked Silver Dollar City, ing time with her ated from Seneca or hand delivered no later than Sept. going to movies, playing games, and family and her High School. In 30. If you have questions, please call teaching children’s church. We are grandkids. We are his spare time, he Leeanna at 918-678-6329. very fortunate to have Sonia on our pleased to have enjoys hunting, The Senior Energy program began team and wish her much success in Debbie and wish fishing, and golf. July 1 and will make one payment of her new position. her much success James also enjoys $100 between July 1 and Sept. 30 di- Kacey Lewis, a tribal citizen, en- BUSSEY in her new position. spending time with rectly to your energy provider. This joys doing arts and Ellen Chrisos his wife Tammy. program does require an application crafts and painting was a cosmetolo- We are glad to each year and is available nation- in her spare time. gist and has now HEFFREN have James on our wide. Please submit the application Kasey also loves retired. In her Facilities team and spending time with spare time, she en- wish him much success in his new Continued on Page 8 her family. She and joys spending time position. her husband have bowling, ice-skat- started a small ing, and horseback farm and enjoy riding. We are very spending time with fortunate to have TAG REMINDERS: Ellen to fill in as Family Services LEWIS their daughters CHRISOS • Must be an enrolled citizen of the out on the farm. needed. Submitted by Dana Butterfield, Wyandotte Nation, an Oklahoma We are happy to have Kasey on our The Facilities Department has a Family Services Director resident AND the car must be prin- team. new full time staff member, tribal cipally garaged in Oklahoma Indian John Webb served in the Military citizen Cindy “We are strong Wyandotte country. for 13 years, with two years active in (Betts) Pulido. women!” That has been the motto • Oklahoma Insurance Verification Germany. He is currently studying Cindy has joined for the Family Services staff this must accompany renewals (except at Robert Haskins us as a Custodian. summer. During this pandemic, we for RV’s and Travel Trailers). School of Christian Cindy has experi- have worked together to the best of • If you are purchasing a new/used Ministry. In his ence in the field. our ability, to continue to provide vehicle, the Tribal citizen’s name spare time, he In her spare time, services to our citizens. Somethings MUST be on the Title at the time of enjoys hunting, she enjoys paint- may look different and may have assignment. Wyandotte Nation Tax fishing, flint knap- ing, drawing, and different requirements to meet social Commission staff CAN NOT add or ping, traditional flipping any flea distancing guidelines, but most all of delete names. bow building and PULIDO market findings. our services are still available. For questions, please call (918) 678- all types of crafts. She also enjoys In this article I would like to high- 6329 or (918) 678-6319 John also enjoys spending time with her family, has light a few of our existing programs WEBB spending time with a baby boy she loves teaching new that are only available between Page 8 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia August 2020 Tribal Department Reports

Continued from Page 7 ditional time. of Oklahoma or with the Tribe. working on the COVID Relief Pro- along with a copy of your current The Low Income Heat Energy Eligible households may only use gram funded through the CARES electric bill. Applications can be Assistance Program (LIHEAP) began LIHEAP from one entity per year Act. If you have been adversely found on our website or one can July 1 and will be available on a during the winter and again during financially affected by COVID-19 you mailed/emailed to you. If this is your first come first serve basis to those the summer. For questions please are eligible to apply for this pro- first time using this program please living in the state of Oklahoma and call Tara Gragg at 918-678-6355. gram, which is a one-time payment allow up to 30 days for processing as has an income requirement. Eligible The Family Services staff, account- of $1,500. You are required to keep we are required to obtain a W9 from families have the choice to apply for ing staff and any other employee receipts for this program between your provider, which takes some ad- LIHEAP either through the state we can recruit, have been fervently the dates of June 29 and Dec. 30 for such things as food, rent/mortgage, utilities, expenses for PPE, distance learning/working, etc. We are not asking you to submit the receipts at COVID-19 Updates this time, but to retain them in case we need at a later date. This application is on the website, Facebook or can be obtained from our office. If Public Health Emergency Relief Program you have questions please call 918- The Wyandotte Nation on June 22, 2020, created the Public Health Emergency Relief Program Application 678-6319 COVID-19 Public Health Emergency Relief Program as certifying they have suffered economic impacts due to the Another CARES Act funded pro- part of the Wyandotte Nation’s General Welfare Program. COVID-19 public health emergency and that economic gram is to assist with the purchase of The purpose of the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency assistance is necessary. Applications will be sent out to laptops/computers for students who Relief Program is to provide direct emergency financial as- those who answered questionnaires on Monday, June 29 are either opting or being required sistance from the Wyandotte Nation’s Coronavirus Relief and will also be posted on our website and Wyandotte Na- to participate in distance learning. Fund monies to our citizens to alleviate the hardships tion Citizens Facebook page. Applications will be accepted The Tribe will either purchase the our citizens are facing as a result of the COVID-19 public through Aug. 31, 2020. health emergency. Eligible tribal citizens may apply for a Please direct any questions you may have to Family required computer or citizens can disbursement of $1,500. Services by phone at 918-678-6319 or email at apply to be reimbursed for purchases Eligible tribal citizens are those who will be age 18 or [email protected]. made after March 1, 2020. This over as of Oct.1, 2020, and who submit the COVID-19 program is available to enrolled Wyandotte Nation citizens who are enrolled in a school or educational institution and proof of enrollment is CARES Act Funds for students required (e.g. class schedule, letter from school). Applications can also Using CARES Act funds afforded to the Wyandotte Wyandotte Nation citizens who are enrolled in a school be found online or by calling/email- Nation, we are providing a maximum of $700 towards the or educational institution, and proof of enrollment is ing the office and must be received purchase of, or reimbursement for, a computer, such as a required (e.g. class schedule, letter from school). Chromebook, desktop, iPad, laptop, or Tablet. We have de- Applications can be found on our website or by calling/ in our office by Sept. 30, 2020. For termined the expense of ensuring our tribal citizens have emailing the office, and must be received in our office by questions about this program please access to computers in order to facilitate their distance Sept. 30, 2020. For questions about this program, please call 918-678-6319. learning is a necessary cost arising from the COVID-19 call (918) 678-6319. Applications for enrolling new public health emergency. Here is the link to the application on our website: Wyandotte Nation citizens must be The Tribe will either purchase the required computer http://www.wyandotte-nation.org/wp-content/up- received in the office or postmarked or citizens can apply to be reimbursed for purchases made loads/2020/07/WyandotteNationCARESActComputerAp- by Aug. 15. Each application must after March 1, 2020. This program is available to enrolled plication.pdf be accompanied by an original state certified birth certificate. The birth certificate will be returned. Applica- tions received prior to a child’s first birthday will receive a $100 Walmart gift card and a special blanket. Start your journey today You don’t have to be perfect to be a foster parent! As mandated by the Constitution, the Annual Meeting will be Satur- Every year thousands of children are placed in fos- day, Sept. 12 at 10 a.m. in the gymnasium of the Bearskin Healthcare ter care. When a child who is a member or is eligible and Wellness Center. Due to the for membership in the Wyandotte Nation is placed current health crisis ONLY enrolled into foster, the ideal situation is for that child to be Wyandotte Nation citizens age 18 and over will be allow to attend the either with family or in another Wyandotte tribal meeting. Tribal leaders are working home. Children need a safe, loving place to stay. That is all you need to start the process of becom- on the ability to livestream the meeting a foster parent. It doesn’t matter where you live, please contact the Family Services Department ing so be sure to follow our Facebook to start your journey today. Continued on Page 9 August 2020 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 9 Tribal Department Reports

Continued from Page 8 our programs and is able to work Education page and website for additional infor- independently. This will be our last mation regarding this. We will also year with Sydney as she will gradu- Submitted by Cristi Hudson, Edu- have the meeting power point and ate from Pittsburgh State University cation Director reports available to any tribal citizen in the Spring of 2021 with a degree who would like to have one mailed. in Education and start her teaching Kweh, There will NOT be an election this career. Sydney is the great-grand- Wyandotte Nation’s Preschool year at the meeting. However, daughter of Artie Peacore Nesvold, program recently held their annual citizens will still be required to show the granddaughter of Charles preschool graduation. The setting their tribal membership or citizen- Nesvold and the daughter of Rob and was different from what we are used ship card (CDIB’s are not proof of Angela Nesvold. She is definitely to, but we still had a great turn out enrollment and will not be accepted of family and friends who gathered at the meeting) and photo ID to be at Bear Park to watch their gradu- eligible to register for the meeting ates receive diplomas. and receive your gift certificates. If This year’s top Kumon student is your citizenship card has a photo a Wyandotte Nation tribal member, included this will meet both require- Silas McLaughlin. Congratulations ments. If you are in need of a tribal to Silas, on a great accomplishment! card please call the office or stop If you have a child, ages 3-5, and by and see us. Be sure to read the live in the Wyandotte, Okla. area, we Annual Meeting notice elsewhere in still have a few openings for the up- the newsletter for additional details coming preschool year. The first day a “strong Wyandotte woman” and regarding social distancing, etc. of preschool for the 2020-2021 school while we will miss her tremendously, The Family Services staff would year will be Thursday, Aug. 13, 2020. we wish her well in her future and like to take this opportunity to Applications can be obtained by hope she knows she will always have tell you about our Intern, Sydney emailing Lindsay Cooper at lcooper@ a place in our hearts. Nesvold. Sydney, has interned in wyandotte-nation.org or you can re- the Family Services Department all quest one by calling Lindsay at (918) Other service programs available five years she has participated in 678-3267. Our Infant, One-year old through the Family Services Depart- the Intern program. She is smart, and Toddler programs are currently ment include: Elder’s Assistance, Ex- kind, funny and an absolute joy to full. To be added to the waiting list, tracurricular Expense; High School be around. She has been a huge please contact Lindsay. Jr/Sr Benefit; Fuel Assistance; Child The Child Care and Development asset to the Department. Each year Courtesy Photo Safety Seat Program; Tribal Tag she has increased her knowledge of Sydney Nesvold Fund program is accepting new Program; Supplemental Health (aka applications for families that are Benny card); Burial Assistance; In- seeking childcare assistance. We dian Child Welfare, Family Violence would be happy to assist in getting Prevention Program and Winter an application to you and answer Clothing. Please note that all of any questions you may have. To be Wyandotte Nation the Family Service programs (with eligible for the Wyandotte Nation Family Services Programs the exception of the Supplemental CCDF program, a household mem- Health Program/Benny card) end on ber must obtain a CDIB or tribal Dates to Remember September 30th. No applications for card, parents must be working or this fiscal year will be accepted after attending school, and you must live that date. Most program guidelines Elder’s Assistance: Oct. 1 – Sept. 30 within certain counties in Oklahoma, and applications can be found on the Missouri, Kansas, and Arkansas. To Senior Energy - Winter: Oct. 1 – Feb. 28 tribe’s website http://www.wyan- request an application, or if you have Senior Energy - Summer: July 1 – Sept. 30 dotte-nation.org/community/family- any questions, you can email Sami LIHEAP - (if available) Winter: Dec. 1 – Feb. 28 services/ or by calling the office. Butterfield, our Child Care Coordi- LIHEAP - (if available) Summer: July 1 – Sept. 30 As always, it is a great pleasure for nator, at sbutterfield@wyandotte- us to be able to serve the citizens of School Supplies: July 1 – Sept. 30 nation.org; or you can call her office the Wyandotte Nation. Please feel at (918) 678-6330. Children’s Winter Clothing: Nov. 1 – Feb. 28 free to reach out to us if you have a The Wyandotte Nation Library Extracurricular Activities: Oct. 1 – Sept. 30 need and we will do our best to assist is open. The hours are Monday Jr./Sr. High School Assistance: Oct. 1 – Sept. 30 you. Dana Butterfield, Director, through Thursday 8 am to 5:30 pm Wyandotte Nation Annual Meeting: Sept. 12 918-678-6319; Tara Gragg, ICW and Friday 8 am to 3:30 pm. New Supervisor, 918-678-6355; Leeanna Children’s Christmas Party: Dec. 12 books have recently been added with Radabaugh, Family Services As- more arriving soon. Be sure to let (Second Saturday of September each year) sistant, 918-678-6329; Tiffany Webb, Deb, our librarian, know if there is Note: All applications must be in our office or post marked on or before ICW Social Worker, 918-678-6353; a certain book or movie you would the last day of the program. Lisa Arnold DV Advocate/Educator, like to see added to our collection. 918-678-6324; and Cesilie Hale, 918- 678-3269. Continued on Page 10 Page 10 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia August 2020 Tribal Department Reports

Important Housing

Submitted by Kathy DeWeese, must be summited and approved by Services, to ensure safe drinking Numbers Housing Director HUD. This plan provides for the upkeep water and proper sanitation facilities of units, rental assistance to college for our tribal families. These services Police Department The Housing office reopened on June students and down payment assistance, include drilling wells, installing septic Glenn Johnston (918) 678-6365 1. All of the employees are back to as well as the day-to-day activities of the systems, rural water hook-ups, and [email protected] work full time. Department. connections to city water and sewer. There are masks and gloves avail- If you are purchasing a home within There are no income guidelines. able for your needs. a 50 mile radius of Wyandotte, and are Tribal citizens must reside in the Family Services / Enrollment / Tags The Heritage Acres Community a first time homebuyer, let us see if following counties: Craig, Creek, Dana Butterfield (918) 678-6319 Center is also open and available for we can help you with Down payment Delaware, Mayes, Nowata, Okfuskee, [email protected] rent. If you are interested in renting assistance. The participant must meet Okmulgee, Ottawa, Rogers, Tulsa, Leeanna Radabaugh, (918) 678-6329, lrada- the center, contact our office to see if income guidelines and be eligible for a Wagoner, or Washington. [email protected] the date is available. conventional loan. Family Violence Program The weather has been hot and the If you are interested in applying for a Department Contacts: Lisa Arnold, (918) 678-6324, lisaarnold@ splash pad has been full! The Splash rental unit, please turn applications in Kathy DeWeese-Housing Director wyandotte-nation.org; Cesilie Hale, (918) 678- pad is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. at the housing office, or mail to 14325 Don Graham- Housing Specialist 3269, [email protected] Bring the kids and enjoy the park. Porcupine Rd., Wyandotte, OK 74370. Paul Parker- Project Coordinator Tribal Social Workers Nahasda (Native American Hous- If you are Levi Griffin- Project Coordinator Tara Gragg (918) 678-6355 ing and Self-Determination Act) is the Larry Hamilton- Residential [email protected] program governed by the Department IHS -121 Program Maintenance Technician Tiffany Garner (918) 678-6353 of Housing and Urban Development This program is funded through Drew Lankford-Residential Main- [email protected] (HUD). Each year a Housing Plan the Department of Health & Human tenance Technician

Human Resources Deana Howard (918) 678-6320 [email protected] Nutrition & Caregiver Services Continued from Page 9 Elder Services Brenda House (918) 678-6327 WIOA eligibility requirements [email protected] Deb’s email address is dhaynes@ include: Submitted by Brenda House, Elder Education / Library / Child Care wyandotee-naiton.org, and her office • You must be Native America, Services Director Cristi Hudson (918) 678-6334 phone is (918) 678-6332. Alaska Native, or Native Hawaiian [email protected] Wyandotte Nation Scholarship • Possess a C.D.I.B. card With the COVID-19 virus con- Tribal Heritage Program and WIOA are currently • Member of a federally recog- tinuing to hang around, we were Sherri Clemons (918) 678-6344 processing fall 2020 semester schol- nized tribe forced to cancel all of our Health [email protected] arships. Environmental / Planning / Development • Must be a resident of the ser- Fairs, Senior Days, Proms and other Here are a few Wyandotte Nation vice area listed above events, so we had to get creative to Christen Lee (918) 678-6341 Undergraduate Scholarship remind- [email protected] try to find something for the Elders Housing ers: To obtain a scholarship applica- to do that would be fun and safe. We Kathy DeWeese (918) 678-6339 • Undergraduate scholarships tion that Wyandotte Nation offers, came up with Car Bingo. Since all [email protected] are limited to eight (8) semesters. you can email your request or any of the casinos were closed, we used • Students will be placed on questions that you may have to Evan the casino parking lots. As the cars probation for failure to complete 12 Hotulke, our Education Specialist at entered the parking lot they received Bearskin Healthcare & hours or more with a minimum of a [email protected]; or a nice goodie bag, a ticket and a Wellness Center 2.0 GPA. by calling his office at (918) 678- bingo card. They parked in every Kelly Friend (918) 678-3259 • Students will be allowed one 6331. other space for social distancing. No [email protected] probationary semester during the We are available to assist you with one was allowed out of his or her car. Clinic Appointments programs duration. the application process in any of our They played four rounds of bingo. We Dee Dee Clapp (918) 678-3228 • Deadline for spring submission programs and we look forward to had several drawings for door prizes [email protected] is Feb. 15. Dental / Vision working with you soon. and we also gave prizes to the best • Deadline for fall submission is Ashley Crawford, (918) 678-3221, decorated car or sign. [email protected] May 1. Department Contacts: As the summer heat came on, we Pharmacy (call-in only) Cristi Hudson – Education Director, started having the bingo early in (918) 678-3244 The Wyandotte Nation Educa- (918) 678-6334 or chudson@wyandotte- the morning. Duke Mason joined Fitness Center tion Department also oversees the nation.org us and provided his amazing Elvis Sharon Bartley (918) 678-3231 WIOA program. These funds are Sami Butterfield – Childcare Co- music, and then we got more creative [email protected] available to assist members of feder- ordinator – CCDF, (918) 678-6330 or [email protected] and surprised them with the ice Contract Health ally recognized tribes residing in Lindsay Cooper – Early Childhood cream truck as they drove out. They Bridget Hart (918) 678-3227 Crawford and Cherokee Counties in Program Coordinator, (918) 678-3267 or absolutely loved it! Sponsors for the [email protected] Southeast Kansas or Barry, Barton, Car Bingo were Wyandotte Nation, Diabetes Clinic [email protected] Dade, Jasper, Lawrence, Newton and Evan Hotulke—Education Specialist, Donna Spaulding (918) 678-3258 McDonald Counties in Southwest (918) 678-6331 or ehotulke@wyandotte- [email protected] Missouri. nation.org Continued on Page 11 August 2020 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 11 Tribal Department Reports Continued from Page 10 Tribal Police Department Submitted by Glenn Johnston, Chief of Police

While the rural town of Wyandotte has been fortunate to not have the high numbers of persons testing positive for CO- VID-19, the safety of the Tribe is first and foremost. Therefore, we regret to announce that National Night Out will be cancelled this year due to the pandemic. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the Tribal Advocates are still in full force. Anyone needing assistance from one of our many Tribal Advocate services will still be able to receive the same services as in the past. Finally, after one and a half years of service to the Wy- andotte Nation Tribal Police Department (WNTPD), Officer Denton Ward (Pictured Right) has moved into another phase of law enforcement. Denton was offered a position with the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA). Denton’s last tour of duty was on June 29, 2020. Denton came aboard with the WNTPD during the Summer Youth Program. Denton recalled that during his early years, he wanted to be a law enforcement officer. Officer Ward strived to fulfill his endeavors and did just that. For most Cadets that go through basic training in Ada, Okla., home of C.L.E.E.T. (Council on Law Enforce- ment Education and Training), it is a very trying time. The rigorous 12-week school is both physically and mentally challenging. While some cadets make it through, many do not. Denton was at the top of his class and named class leader. What Denton achieved during his tour of duty for the Wyandotte Na- tion and the Town of Wyandotte is second to none. We are all very proud of his accomplishments and what he has achieved. We wish him the very best in his endeavors in law enforcement. Be safe brother. We will always have your 6! Eastern Shawnee Tribe, Ottawa rent and former caregivers. It is also Tribe, Peoria Tribe, Quapaw Nation, for Grandparents raising grandchil- Good Shepherd Hospice and Grand dren. Gateway Area Agency on Aging. It is always a pleasure serving the We certainly are going to miss Wyandotte Nation Citizens. Please Tribal Heritage do this and be safe, but there is not seeing everyone at the gathering and feel free to call us anytime. currently a way to do this safely and Pow-Wow this year. Looking forward Submitted by Sherri Clemons, be able to enjoy Pow-Wow the way it to seeing you next year. Stay safe Tribal Heritage Director was meant to be. everyone! Department Contacts: So rather risk someone, maybe one Brenda House, Elder Services Director, It is with great sadness so many of our elders get sick, we cancelled (918) 678-6327. CAREGIVER cultural events had to be cancelled our cultural events. We will plan on Stephanie Hamilton, Food Service for the year, and I am sure several 2021 to be the best year for all of our (Suspended due to COVID-19) The Team Supervisor, (918) 678-6328, (Of- Caregiver Support Group meets the fice) 6390 are asking why? It is part of our gatherings. first Thursday of each month in the Seth Higginbotham, Chris Rhodes culture to hug family and friends You can go to the Wyandotte web- Artie Nesvold Community Center and Robyn Beaty, Food Service Team when we see them and want to be site and brush up on history there: (Title VI) Safe Room beginning at Members (918) 678-6328 close. This virus has robbed us of www.wyandottenation.org 10:30 am. This group is for all cur- Menu, (918) 678-6326 that. Tribal leadership have tried to Stay healthy and stay in touch. Page 12 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia August 2020 Tribal Department Reports

Planning & Natural The Planning and Natural Re- sources Department is also dedicated Resources to researching and applying for Submitted by Christen Lee, Envi- federal, state, and foundation grants ronmental & Planning Director to benefit the Tribe and tribal community. Projects often serve Tribal Wyandotte Nation’s mission is, citizens within a 50-mile radius of “To advance the standard of living tribal headquarters; however, some of the Tribe…and to promote in any formula funded grants may serve other way the general welfare of the citizens within a 100-mile radius. Indians of the Wyandotte Nation.” Ultimately, the department’s desire To carry this mission forward in to serve and create a positive impact our tribal community, the Planning on all Wyandotte’s across the United and Natural Resources Depart- States. Selecting grants is based ment provide a variety of services upon community and departmental including, but not limited to, private needs as well as the availability of well drinking water sampling as funding opportunities. A summary of and septic assessments for private approved and pending applications home owners. We also encourage can be seen in the tables to the right. and provide a place to recycle. Lost Creek Recycling Center is open to the community and surrounding area Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Friday. The facility can accept the following materials: paper, plastic, cardboard, tin and aluminum. Courtesy Photo Many, if not most, of Environmen- (ABOVE) Staff put on a pollinator tal Staff worked from home during class. (RIGHT) Planning & Natural the month of April due to the CO- Resources staff conduct a bio assess- VID-19 health emergency. However, ment. we attended and participated in many virtual meetings regarding

Natural Resource activities. Unfor- Department Contacts: tunately, our monthly and quarterly Director Christen Lee, clee@wyan- water samples on our eight sites had dotte-nation.org to wait until May. Environmental Program Manager While May was a busy month Kathleen Welch, kwelch@wyandotte- trying to catch up on postponements nation.org and cancelations, our water staff has Environmental Technician 1 Janice been busy with an increased number Wilson, [email protected] of private drinking well samples. Environmental Technician 2 Brittany Sadly, we canceled this year’s An- Crowe, [email protected] nual Environmental Festival because Recycling Center Coordinator John of school closings and concern for Quick, [email protected] public safety. Land Management Technician Robby On a lighter note, Lost Creek Re- Graham, [email protected] cycle Center hosted a tire collection Water Utilities Operator Braulio, event in early July. Last November Ramirez [email protected] we collected 360 tires, which were Grant Writer Debbie Dry, ddry@ collected by a Qualified Applicant wyandotte-nation.org for Collection & Transportation Grant Writer 2/ 477 Coordinator from Bristow, Okla. All tires will be Michael Lowery, mlowery@wyandotte- refined and reused for other projects. nation.org