GOLDEN RULE DAY THOREAU RAILHEAD SALUTING A NAVAJO HERO Vice President Rex Lee Jim hosted Navajo Nation President Ben Shelly President Shelly honored Navajo Navajo Nation Golden Rule Day for broke ground for the Thoreau Police Officer Alex K. Yazzie, who the second year in Window Rock, Industrial Park Railhead before was killed in the line of duty so that page 2. finishing his term of office, page 7. the lives of others could be saved, page 11.

Hózhoojí Nahat’áh Baa Hane’ May 2015 Executive branch News A Publication of the Navajo Nation Volume 1, Issue 3 www.navajo-nsn.gov President Shelly attends Zoo Fest, approves eagle aviary funding WINDOW ROCK, Ariz.— can be found across the Navajo Parents and children came out Nation.” in droves. He noted that the zoo operates On May 2, Navajo Nation on donations from the general President Ben Shelly attended public and tribal departments the 8th annual Navajo Nation and entities that adopt animals. Zoo Fest. Guest speakers, Entities adopting an animal entertainment, a play area for provide funding for food, repairs kids and animals were featured for their enclosures and other at the free event. needs. The tribal zoo features more Upon taking office in 2011, than 50 different species of President Shelly and First Lady animals indigenous to the Navajo Martha Shelly adopted a golden Nation. It is also the only zoo in eagle that could not fly because the country owned and operated it was missing a wing. Shellie the by a Native American tribe. golden eagle is one of the many “A small but dedicated staff animals on display at the zoo. takes care of the animals in our In 2011, President Shelly also zoo. If you see them, please made the commitment to fund an take a moment to thank them for eagle aviary exhibit at the zoo. Navajo Nation President Ben Shelly attended the 8th Annual Zoo Fest and noted it was the fifth time he has attended the event since taking office in 2011. Early on in his administration, he adopted a golden eagle and made the commitment to construct their service,” President Shelly The project will give the birds an aviary for the magnificent birds. The aviary will be constructed after President Shelly approved more than $400,000 for the said. “From the black bears to more room to fly and provide the project. (Photo by Rick Abasta) the golden eagles, these animals SEE Eagle >> Page 11 President Shelly celebrates groundbreaking ceremony for Thompson’s Covenience Store in Church Rock he junction of N.M. Highway convenience store,” President better location to stimulate his T118 and Highway 566 was a Shelly said. “The Navajo business. The perfect location hotbed of activity on the morning Nation, through the Business for the proposed gas station will of May 9. Improvement Development undoubtedly generate traffic, as Navajo Nation President Fund, contributed $1.5 million his business is directly across Ben Shelly celebrated the for this project. from “Campaign Hill.” groundbreaking ceremony for “The new business will Thanking the staff of Thompson’s convenience store create 20-plus new jobs for the DED, Business Improvement and gas station in Church Rock. community,” he added. Development Fund and the Navajo businessman Alvin Financial partners in the Eastern Regional Business Thompson, council delegate project include the DED, Navajo Development Office, President Edmund Yazzie, Division of Division of Transportation, Great Shelly noted that breaking Economic Development director Western Bank and personal funds ground for a new business on President Shelly praised the groundbreaking ceremony for Thompson’s Convenience Store in Church Rock recently. Located at entrance of Church Rock, he said the Albert Damon, chapter president from Thompson. the Nation is always cause for business will be a success. (Photo by Rick Abasta) Johnny Henry, representatives The new store is a response celebration. from the city of Gallup and to the community needs for “Thank you Mr. Thompson for of regulations from federal, tribal, successful,” President Shelly state of N.M were also on hand food, gas and other supplies. not giving up during the lengthy state and county laws is not only said. to break ground for the new Thompson has operated a store process involved in establishing tedious, but complicated as well, Once the business is off the business. in the heart of Church Rock for a new business. It’s not easy, I he said. ground and fully operational, “Today we are here to many years. know this reality firsthand,” “The Navajo Nation continues the Navajo Nation will receive break ground and celebrate the In business since 1964, President Shelly said. to grow. We must enable our revenue from leasing, rental construction of a new $4 million Thompson made the move for a Negotiating the bureaucracy small business owners to be space and taxes. PRESIDENT SHELLY’S MESSAGE NAVAJO NATION GOLDEN RULE DAY

Yá’át’ééh! Today, if you want a survival for the Welcome to the job with the Navajo generations ahead. final issue of Hozhoojí Nation, you must have Take care of your Nahat’á Ba Hane’ a college degree. elders and check up for the Shelly-Jim Our young and on them to ensure administration. educated Navajos they have enough On behalf of Vice can now return home food, water and other Navajo Nation Vice President Rex Lee Jim is the Golden Rule Ambassador for the Navajo Nation. He hosted the 2nd Annual Navajo Nation Golden Rule Day in April 2015. (Photo by Rick Abasta) President Rex Lee Jim to participate in the necessities. They are and I, we want to thank tribal government. living treasures and o unto others as you must walk in their shoes Education and Human you for the opportunity We worked with our hold the rich history Dwould have others do for a mile or two, or three. Services Committee. Vice to serve as your leaders tribal legislators to of our great Navajo unto you. “The whole idea is to President Jim provided the for the past four-plus accomplish this shift in Nation. The premise of the promote peace,” he added. keynote address. years. It was a blessing hiring practices. Take care of each Golden Rule is simple: Golden Rule Day is Milissa Tatum, research to serve the Navajo In direct contrast other and bring our treat others as you would observed globally on April professor of law at the people during this time to the previous Nation back into like to be treated. This 5, with 120 nations across University of Arizona, in office. administration, we harmony. We will basic teaching has been the globe participating. also spoke and provided The Navajo Nation have worked hard with move forward with around since biblical times Ambassadorship is an hour-long presentation is going through a our Navajo Nation peace and unity for our and maybe even longer. awarded to leaders on “Culture Clash: paradigm shift and our Council and in doing Navajo people. It’s human nature to internationally who have Turning Confrontation into tribal government is so, we achieved many Again, thank you disagree with others, but exemplified the Golden Cooperation.” changing. Our young accomplishments on for allowing us to finding the proper way to Rule in their everyday With lunch provided Navajos are returning behalf of the Navajo serve the great Navajo resolve such conflicts in a lives. by the Casey Foundation, home educated and people. We must work Nation. It has been a positive manner was the For the 2015 Navajo participants spent the day determined to make the together, that is the key privilege and an honor premise of Navajo Nation Nation Golden Rule Day, at the museum to learn necessary changes for to getting things done. to be your leaders. Golden Rule Day, which festivities began with a about conflict resolution, the future generations Please respect May the Holy People was celebrated on April fun run and walk hosted negotiations and difficult to come. your tribal leaders bless the Navajo 4 at the Navajo Nation by the Navajo Nation conversations from a faith- I always believed in and your elders. We people and continue Museum for the second Special Diabetes Program. based perspective. giving our young and have gone the other guiding us for the road year. The fresh air and exercise Ama Doo Alchini educated Navajos a direction from our ahead. On July 3, 2013, the prepared participants for a Bighan, Inc. also presented chance to serve in this traditional teachings Ahe’hee! Golden Rule International day of guest speakers and information on domestic government. When we and this is not good. selected Navajo Nation information. violence and the need to took office, I appointed The preservation of Honorable Ben Shelly Vice President Rex Lee Jim Living a healthy life has protect Navajo children a 29-year-old Navajo language and culture NAVAJO NATION Golden Rule Ambassador been a mainstay in Vice from unhealthy home man to serve as our was a mainstay of our PRESIDENT for the Navajo Nation. The President Jim’s term of environments. chief of staff. This administration and we GRI and Committee of the office, as he ran across the Vice President Jim was an unprecedented pray this continues for Interfaith Peace Building Navajo Nation for all four encouraged all to make the move. the future. Initiative selected him as years of the administration. extra effort to treat others During our Diné bizaad is ambassador. Not just a marathon, either. with respect and positivity, administration I also Navajo sovereignty. “We want to treat others We’re talking hundreds of regardless of the situation. enacted legislation It is vital that we the way that we want miles ran in the name of The Golden Rule is alive that terminated the preserve our Navajo to be treated. You have healthy living. and well and living on the equivalency standard language and teach to listen to them, talk to Council delegate Navajo Nation. that was in place for our children the them, observe them,” Vice Amber Crotty provided Do unto others as you employment with the importance of speaking President Jim said. “To the welcome address as would have others do unto tribal government. it and ensuring its understand someone, you a member of the Health, you.

2 Hózhoojí Nahat’áh Baa Hane’ MAY 2015 www.navajo-nsn.gov NAVAJO-OWNED BUSINESS Chinle Denny’s groundbreaking ceremony President Shelly supported Navajo businessman Romero Brown for new restaurant construction

Navajo Nation President Vice President Rex Lee Jim is the Golden Rule Ambassador for the Navajo Nation. He hosted the 2nd Annual Navajo Nation Golden Rule Day. (Photo by Rick Abasta)

CHINLE, Ariz.—On President-Elect Jonathan Economic Development.” of the box” thinking to Ahe’hee.” provided $2,150,000. April 29, Navajo Nation Nez. Chapter president Denny’s will undoubtedly address the challenges of Romero Brown said “When we build this President Ben Shelly and Andy Ayze and chapter be a success, the president starting a business on the work on the Denny’s Denny’s, it’s going to have First Lady Martha Shelly vice president Myron said, because Navajos love Navajo Nation, he said. project began in 2008. 100 permanent employees. broke ground for a new McLaughlin participated, to eat. He said the Shelly- “We must work with He noted that President There will be 230 Denny’s restaurant in along with tribal officials Jim administration pushed our small businesses for Shelly’s involvement temporary construction Chinle. from Division of for innovative ideas for the benefit of the Navajo made the project a reality. jobs. We’re going to pay The site of the restaurant Economic Development businesses during their Nation. These businesses “We probably gave up about $1 million per year is located adjacent to the and the Navajo Nation term of office. create new jobs and three or four times. Native in payroll. Then we’re Program for Self Reliance Council. Projects like the Thoreau stimulate the economy,” American Bank wanted to going to pay the Navajo office. The group took Rail Port, Narbona President Shelly said. “It build this back in 2009, but Tax Commission about The celebration began photos at the site of the Growth Fund and federal gives me great pleasure after the economic crash $150,000 per year,” Brown with a traditional Navajo Denny’s restaurant before they pulled back,” Brown said. blessing. Participants convening at the Chinle said. “It sure is hard to Construction will blessed themselves with Chapter House for the build a business on the take six months and the Tádídíín (corn pollen) and festivities. “I would like to thank Romero Navajo Nation.” anticipated completion the site of the restaurant. President Shelly said, The Division of date is Oct. 17. Navajo businessman “I would like to thank Brown for having the courage Economic Development “In October, we’ll Romero Brown joined Romero Brown for having and Regional Business have some Grand Slams,” President Shelly for the courage to step forward to step forward and start a Development Office Brown said. groundbreaking ceremony. and start a new business new business here in Chinle.” stepped forward to help the Brown noted that he Also participating in here in Chinle. I want to Navajo entrepreneur. The wants to open a chain of the shovel ceremony also thank Albert Damon Navajo Nation provided Denny’s restaurants across were President-Elect and the hardworking EB-5 Immigrant Investor to break ground for a new $341,000 for the project. the Navajo Nation. Russell Begaye and Vice staff at the Division of Program provided “out Navajo-owned business. Native American Bank

www.navajo-nsn.gov MAY 2015 Hózhoojí Nahat’áh Baa Hane’ 3 NAVAJO GAMING President Shelly negotiates gaming compact HUERFANO BRIDGE to the House floor. She described the joint resolution as a good bill and said five tribes united over the past three years to craft the compact with Gov. Martinez’s office. “The tribe’s casinos have created thousands of jobs for New Mexicans and brings in millions of dollars every year in revenue sharing to the state of New Mexico,” Clahchischilliage said. Time was of the essence, she said, because current compacts expire on June 30 and non- approval of SJR 19 would cause severe economic setbacks for the Navajo Nation President Ben Shelly announced that the most dangerous bridge in tribes. San Juan County has finally been replaced. The new Huerfano bridge opened to traffic on April 28, 2015. It was the first project constucted with Tribal Transportation She reviewed the main Improvement Project funds since the Feb. 2013 direct funding agreement with the provisions of the compact: Federal Highway Administration. (Photo by Rick Abasta) increased revenue sharing, HUERFANO, N.M.—The Navajo Nation, proving the tribe limits on the number of gaming new bridge is open. has the capacity to complete facilities for tribes, the extended In the eastern portion of the major road projects to meet the 22-year expiration date, new Navajo Nation, residents of the needs of Navajo communities. provisions for comps and remote chapter of Huerfano “This is the first time NDOT participation in the state self- have waited for more than two took over the reins from the exclusion program. decades for the replacement of BIA to complete a project of Many members of the House a bridge that carries residents this magnitude from start to rose and stood in support of the across County Road 5150. finish. We are now partners with bill, including Speaker. Ken The bridge is located about the BIA and the direct funding Top, Navajo Nation President Ben Shelly and other tribal leaders sat in the rostrum Martinez (D-Bernalillo, Cibola, during the legislative sessions for the tribal gaming compact. Bottom, President Shelly five miles west of U.S. Highway agreement with the FHWA is and Speaker LoRenzo Bates listen in on the proceedings. (Photos by Rick Abasta) McKinley). 550, south of Bloomfield. making a significant difference,” He said the negotiations were “The most dangerous Chaco said. a long and difficult process, bridge is San Juan County He said the bridge replacement SANTA FE—It came down and Senate for approval of this especially after last year’s has been replaced,” President was an important project the to the wire. compact,” President Shelly said. session that saw the Navajo Shelly said. “This was the first Shelly-Jim administration With the 2015 N.M. “Gaming is independence and compact stall in the Senate. major construction project focused on completing before Legislative Session expiring revenue for the tribes. The difference with the new funded by Navajo Division of leaving office. on March 21, Senate Joint “Thanks are in order for the compact is that the tribes worked Transportation since we entered The bridge opened to receive Resolution 19 passed in the governor’s office as well, they together to create a compact in into a direct funding agreement traffic on April 28. Previously, House of Representatives by a worked hard on this compact the interests of all. with the Federal Highway residents had to travel through vote of 61-5 on the evening of alongside us,” he added. “It affects everybody,” Administration in February of a makeshift route down the March 18. Speaker LoRenzo Bates Martinez said. “I rise in strong 2013. Gallegos Wash to cross the The gaming compact now (Nenahnezad, Newcomb, San support of this gaming compact.” “Now, school buses can safety roadway. advances to Gov. Susana Juan, T’iistoh Sikaad, Tse’ Rep. Debbie Rodella also transport children to school,” he Bridge 8105 was completed Martinez for approval before Daa’ Kaan, Upper Fruitland) rose in support of the compact added. at a cost of $2.3 million. NDOT getting sent to the U.S. and council delegates Amber on behalf of the Jicarilla Apache In 2013, the FHWA executed provided $1.5 million to replace Department of Interior for final Crotty (Beclabito, Gadiiahi- Nation. a direct funding agreement with the bridge and the difference authorization. To’Koi, Red Valley, Sheep She said in north central N.M., NDOT, providing $10 million to was paid by San Juan County Navajo Nation President Ben Springs, Toadlena-Two Grey jobs are hard to come by. the tribal division annually. and the N.M. gross receipts tax. Shelly expressed appreciation for Hills, Tse’alnaozt’i’i’) and “This compact will keep The Bureau of Indian Affairs For more than two decades, the state lawmakers for approving Tuchoney Slim, Jr. (Bodaway- more than 200 people employed,” is the other partner in the greatest hurdle to constructing the compact and not only Gap, Coppermine, K’aibi’to, Rodella said. “It provides agreement. The BIA receives $44 the 356-feet bridge was funding. saving thousands of jobs, but LeChee, Tonalea-Red Lake) stability for the next 22 years.” million annually from FHWA to The old bridge was known encouraging tribal economic joined President Shelly in the Gov. Susan Martinez and service Navajo Nation roads. as the most dangerous bridge in independence. rostrum. President Shelly signed the Paulson Chaco, director of San Juan County because it had a “I want to say thank you Rep. Sharon Clahchischilliage compact on April 13 and sent it NDOT, said the new bridge is a rating of 13 on a scale of 1 to 100. to members of both the House (R-San Juan) introduced SJR 19 to the Interior Department. major accomplishment for the

4 Hózhoojí Nahat’áh Baa Hane’ MAY 2015 www.navajo-nsn.gov ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION $13.2 million for abandoned uranium mine cleanup plan President Shelly praises U.S. DOJ announcement, pushes for more funding

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz.— must be addressed. The U.S. Department of “Sixteen abandoned uranium Justice announced a settlement mines is a small number of agreement with the Navajo the entire 521 sites on the Nation to provide $13.2 million current inventory,” Etsitty said. for the cleanup evaluation of “However these 16 sites are high 16 abandoned uranium mines priority mines the Navajo Nation located across the Navajo Nation. needs cleaned. The first phase settlement “They do not have a agreement for the abandoned responsible party or viable uranium mines will establish company to provide the cleanup,” an environmental response trust he added. to pay for the evaluations. The The Navajo Nation will inspection of the 16 sites will continue to work with U.S. initiate solutions for the final DOJ and the U.S. Department cleanup. of Energy to provide cleanup of “The Navajo Nation is working all abandoned uranium mines with U.S. EPA for cleanup of left on tribal lands. uranium contamination that was The U.S. EPA website states, abandoned upon tribal lands after “Today the mines are closed, but a the Cold War,” President Shelly legacy of uranium contamination said. “Countless Navajos have remains, including over 500 suffered from the health and abandoned uranium mines as environmental impacts from this From the $1.2 billion Tronox settlement to the recently announced $13.2 million funding for the evaluation of cleaning 16 abandoned well as homes and drinking contamination. uranium sites on the Navajo Nation, President Shelly was steadfast in his efforts to cleanup radioactive waste on tribal lands. He water sources with elevated said there are still hundreds of sites in need of remediation for the safety of Navajo people and livestock. (Photo by Rick Abasta) “It is our hope the U.S. will levels of radiation.” finally accept responsibility for activities as we work together said the environmental response Hoskie. The panel consisted Potential health effects include the cleanup of this uranium to make real progress on the trust is officially named the of representatives from the lung cancer from inhalation of contamination,” he added. environmental legacy of uranium “Navajo Nation Abandoned Office of the President and radioactive particles, as well as The U.S. DOJ is increasing mining on the Navajo Nation,” Uranium Mine Environmental Vice President, Navajo EPA bone cancer and impaired kidney their focus on environmental and Blumenfeld said. Response Trust – First Phase.” and the Dine’ Medicine Men’s function from exposure to health concerns across Indian From 1944 to 1986, He said Sadie Hoskie was Association. radionuclides in drinking water. Country. The commitment by the approximately four million tons selected to serve as trustee for Navajo DOJ demonstrated Although the legacy of Obama administration to resolve of uranium ore was extracted the Nation. Hoskie was the first there were well qualified Navajos uranium mining is widespread these grievances from American from Navajo Nation lands. executive director of Navajo to fill these important positions, and will take many years Indian tribes is commendable, The U.S. DOJ said the federal EPA. Most recently, she has Tsosie said, adding that their goal to address completely, the President Shelly said. government, through the Atomic served at the U.S. EPA Region of showcasing competency was collaborative effort of U.S. John Cruden, assistant Energy Commission, was the 8 in Denver. achieved. He said the Navajo EPA, other federal agencies and attorney general for Justice sole purchaser of uranium until “She brings a unique Nation was optimistic about the Navajo Nation will bring an Department Environmental and receiving a comprehensive unprecedented level of support Natural Resources Division said settlement to restore tribal lands and protection for the people at the site evaluations are focused “The Navajo Nation is working with and the environment back into risk from these sites. Much work on mines that pose the most harmony. remains to be done, and US EPA significant hazards. the U.S. EPA for cleanup of uranium President Shelly said, “I is committed to working with the “In partnership with our sister welcome this preliminary Navajo Nation to remove the federal agencies, we will also contamination that was abandoned settlement agreement that will most immediate contamination continue our work to address address 16 abandoned uranium risks and to find permanent the legacy of uranium mining on upon tribal lands after the Cold War.” mine sites. We have always said solutions to the remaining Navajo lands, including ongoing the U.S. is responsible for the contamination on Navajo lands. discussions with the Navajo 1966, when commercial sales of combination of upper level cleanup of uranium legacy sites.” Nation,” Cruden said. uranium began. administrative experience, The 16 sites are orphaned Jared Blumenfeld, regional The AEC continued to technical environmental mines because the companies administrator for the U.S. EPA purchase ore until 1970. The knowledge and a command of that operated the sites are no Pacific Southwest, said the last uranium mine on the Navajo Navajo culture to this program,” longer in existence. EPA is proud to implement the Nation shut down in 1986. Tsosie said. Stephen Etsitty, executive historic settlement. Harrison Tsosie, attorney A panel from the Navajo director of Navajo EPA, said “It dovetails with our ongoing general for the Navajo Nation, Nation made the selection of there are hundreds more that www.navajo-nsn.gov MAY 2015 Hózhoojí Nahat’áh Baa Hane’ 5 NAVAJO SOVEREIGNTY President Shelly honors Navajo Nation $1.2 million in Navajo FET Sovereignty Day, declares independence funds to be returned to Nation right to impose taxes on tribal government and we he Navajo Nation companies doing business are changing processes Fuel Excise Tax on the Nation,” President that were written in the Tcontinues to make Shelly said. Navajo Nation Code to a difference in improving He said the Navajo operate our government. the quality of life for tribal Nation’s strength and Recent developments members. execution of tribal require that we change Since taking office sovereignty is evident the law in accordance with in 2011, Navajo Nation in many developments the needs of the Navajo President Ben Shelly throughout the government. people,” President Shelly has pushed for the return “For decades, the Navajo said. of FET dollars that’s Nation was not included in Tribal sovereignty earmarked for the state of SENATOR CARLYLE BEGAY the negotiations of mineral was also executed Ariz. this work. without the help of Sen. President Ben Shelly has stood leases for coal and other recently when the Navajo For every gallon of “Beyond that, we have Carlyle Begay,” he said. firm on acknowledging Navajo natural resources found on Nation sat down at the gasoline purchased, been successful for the Sen. Begay sovereignty and said leaders our tribal lands,” President table with Pueblo and 18 cents is taxed and return of tribal FET dollars said infrastructure must not go against the Navajo Shelly said. “We fought Apache Nations in N.M. deposited into the Navajo from the state of Arizona,” development, especially Nation. (Photo by Rick Abasta) hard to earn a seat at the to formulate the tribal Nation Road Fund. For he added. transportation, has been a avajo Nation table for these negotiations. gaming compact with the every gallon of diesel, President Shelly said priority for him throughout Sovereignty is “Now, we have our own state. 25 cents is taxed and servicing school bus routes his service in the Arizona Nmore than just coal mine,” he added. The N.M. Senate and deposited into the fund. has been the priority and Senate. another tribal holiday. Today, funding from House passed the bill, with The state receives 6 cents that the new Huerfano “Transportation is what Tribal employees natural resources in the many legislators lauding from every gallon of gas bridge was testament to the binds our Nation together. received eight hours form of taxes, leases, the Navajo Nation’s sold on the Nation. work of his administration. It’s what allows our kids to off from work to mark employment and other decision to sit down with FET funding is used Over the past decade, go to school, to go to work, the occasion, but its forms of economic other tribes to hammer for road improvement FET dollars have to go to the hospital,” commemoration of development fund a large out an agreement that projects such as school bus averaged more than $13 Begay said. independence must not be part of the tribal budget. In benefitted all. Because of routes, drainage crossings, million annually on the The $1.2 million in FET lost, said Navajo Nation turn, these funds provide this, Gov. Susana Martinez access roads, maintenance, Navajo Nation. From that dollars returning to the President Ben Shelly. important direct services did not hesitate to sign off grading and many other amount, $4 million goes Navajo Nation will equate On May 3, 1985, the to the Navajo people. and approve the compact enhancements. to the state of Arizona, to about $750 per mile for tribal council established The recent tribal election before forwarding it to After their inauguration, $2 million is deposited unpaved school bus route Navajo Nation Sovereignty for the tribal presidency the U.S. Department of the Shelly-Jim into the Permanent Trust maintenance, according to Day after the U.S. Supreme is another example Interior. administration faced 78 Fund, $3 million is for the NDOT. Court upheld tribal rights of exercising Navajo “We exercised Navajo unfinished FET projects tribal road fund and $3 Begay said the $9.1 to impose taxes without sovereignty the president sovereignty to pass a left behind by the previous million is utilized for road billion budget packet approval of the U.S. said, especially given new gaming compact administration. maintenance. that was passed by the Secretary of Interior. the fact the process was with the state of New On March 28, 2013, the NDOT has followed Arizona Legislature this The case was Kerr- carried out in a democratic, Mexico,” President Shelly Naa’bik’iyati’ Committee the directives of President past session allowed for McGee v. Navajo Tribe. peaceful manner. said. “Now, we have an placed a moratorium on Shelly. the return of $1.2 million The Navajo Nation’s The various factions agreement in place for the new FET projects until “President Shelly’s for the Navajo Nation. authority to tax energy exercising their right next 22 years. the outstanding work was directive was very clear: “We’ll continue to companies and others to protest was a “Those gaming funds completed. finish the outstanding FET pursue policies that will involved in utilizing demonstration of tribal not only stimulate the More than 60 of projects,” said Paulson enable us to become natural resources found on sovereignty, he said, and economy, but they also the projects have been Chaco, director of NDOT. more self-determined and tribal lands was reaffirmed the subsequent election provide direct services to completed since that time, Chaco said his other really look at avenues to by the high court. of a president and vice the Navajo people. That’s allowing Navajo Division priority was working with retain greater economies Since then the president. Navajo sovereignty,” he of Transportation to tribal legislators in the of scale,” Begay said. Possessory Interest Tax, “We operate a young added. begin soliciting for new state legislature to begin “Bringing more jobs, Business Activity Tax and proposals. recouping FET funds improving education, other tribal tariffs have “Completing the going into the state coffers. improving infrastructure. brought in hundreds of NÁÁTS’ÍÍLID Fuel Excise Tax projects “We are excited “Much of that doesn’t millions of dollars to the Nááts’íílid is the rainbow, or Navajo sovereignty in Dine’ bizaad. The rainbow that were left in limbo with the news that $1.2 occur overnight. We’ll symbolizes the sovereignty that protects the Navajo Nation. It can be found on both tribal economy. the Great Seal of the Navajo Nation and the Navajo Nation Flag. was a priority for our million will be returned continue making the small

“Please remember the Beyond that, Navajo sovereignty is a way of life for the Navajo peoplle and it must be administration,” President to the Nation from changes to move toward a importance of this day, that protected at all costs. Many have tried to step over our tribal sovereignty, but we must Shelly said. “I’m happy to Arizona for transportation more positive direction,” ensure it is respected and maintained for the future of the Navajo Nation. the Navajo Nation has the report that we’ve done our infrastructure. This would he said. authority and inherent Dine’ bizaad is Navajo sovereignty. job and completed most of not have been possible 6 Hózhoojí Nahat’áh Baa Hane’ MAY 2015 www.navajo-nsn.gov INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT Thoreau Industrial Park Railhead President Shelly breaks ground to officially start Phase I for economic development

President Ben Shelly broke ground for the Thoreau Industrial Park Railhead before ending his term of service as the leader of the Navajo Nation. (Photo by Rick Abasta)

THOREAU, N.M.— they really like this idea,” the benefit of Thoreau companies doing business venture with us, it can be Nation’s master lease Phase I of the Thoreau President Shelly said. “The residents. on the Nation paved the done,” Drake said. agreement, but it will also Industrial Park Railhead New Mexico House and Elroy Drake of Blue way for the Permanent He noted that the Nation be a business multiplier is officially underway. Senate are also supportive” Horse Energy, LLC, said Trust Fund and the would not be subject to and create new shops for On the afternoon of He said the storage area it’s been a long journey to Narbona Growth Fund, federal, state or corporate repairs, mechanics and May 8, Navajo Nation of one railcar is equivalent get to the groundbreaking he added. taxes. other businesses associated President Ben Shelly broke to four semi trailers. ceremony for the project. “I wrote the concept “The Farmington power with the industry. ground in Thoreau for the Phase II of the project Blue Horse Energy was paper for the Permanent plants are closing units. Oil The transcontinental proposed rail port that will involve construction selected to develop, Trust Fund,” Drake prices are dropping. The loading center will reduce will import goods to the of a four-lane highway operate, finance and said. “It was capital Navajo Nation must look shipping costs, spur Four Corners and export on Highway 371. The manage the operation of resource creation through into other opportunities investment opportunities agriculture, coal and oil middle of the roadway the railhead. compounded rate of return. like partnering with in new and existing throughout the country will be reserved for the “Sovereignty. Indian Now we have $2.6 billion.” BNSF,” Drake said. markets and reduce the via the Intercontinental railway, which will tribes are sovereign. It’s In 2013, the Navajo Pete Deswood, senior carbon footprint left Railway. connect Farmington with important to understand Nation established the economic specialist with behind by the trucking The grand design of Thoreau and then on to the that,” Drake said. Narbona Growth Fund, DED, said the Narbona industry. the three-phase project Transcontinental Railway. Sovereign authorities, a for-profit company Growth Fund is structured “That’s what this is all is to have a rail spur “The right of way will such as taxation, played under Section 17 of the to allow the Navajo Nation about. The opportunity is connecting Thoreau to have to widened from the a significant role in Indian Reorganization to work with entities like there,” Deswood said. Farmington. Thoreau’s 160-feet width it currently providing the Navajo Act, to execute business BNSF. 380-acre industrial park is today. The feasibility Nation self-determination with states and foreign “We have an investor will accommodate up to study has been done and for their future economic countries. waiting in the wings to 20 companies through a we have an investor for the efforts, he said. “The Narbona Growth help us with a bridge loan,” transcontinental loading $14 million cost on Phase In 1985, the U.S. Fund will be a holding Deswood said. center. I,” President Shelly said. Supreme Court’s decision company, so we can have The Thoreau Industrial “We have talked to New businesses will to uphold the Navajo subsidiaries under it. If a Park Railhead will not New Mexico DOT and follow, he added, for Nation’s right to tax company wants to joint only establish the Navajo www.navajo-nsn.gov MAY 2015 Hózhoojí Nahat’áh Baa Hane’ 7 DINE’ BI KEYAH Navajo Land Summit II focuses on land, tribal paradigm shift for progress “land is life.” hospitals could be created, “This is an incredibly all which create a tax base important summit, not just to draw money from for for what’s happening now, services to the people. but for the future of the “Listen carefully. This is Navajo Nation,” Benally the beginning. It all starts said. “The information with land,” he said. you leave with becomes power.” Navajo Nation Strategic He said it’s the power Plan to change existing laws Arbin Mitchell, chief of and policies, the power staff for the Office of the to change the way Speaker, said the land is communities are organized, our Mother. the power to change the “As Navajo people, we way people use land. have simple idea, a simple Dissecting the theme plan,” Mitchell said. of the summit, Benally “There are four items in our explained that a paradigm strategic plan: Nitsáhákees, is a set of rules or Nahat’á, Iiná, and Sihasin. guidelines, whether it’s “(The plan) goes around federal or tribal policies, and around. You plant it school board directives or out, you think it out,” he the Red Book that governs said. the Eastern Land Board. The four concepts of Presently, a paradigm thinking, planning, life and President Shelly encouraged the audience comprised of tribal employees, chapter officials, CLUP committee members and concerned citizens to take advantage of the knowledge shared during the 2nd Annual Navajo Land Summit. He said new innovations like the Navajo Land Title shift is occurring at DNR, hope are the foundation for Data System will not only automate antiquated tribal processes, but also work in tandem with the Navajo Nation General Leasing Act, which he said, ever since he the Navajo Nation. was approved by the Interior Department in May 2014. (Photo by Rick Abasta) took over the reins to the Mitchell said his decades TWIN ARROWS, The Navajo Nation 2013, which was enacted as blueprints to their division earlier this year. of experience serving at Ariz.—Pay attention. Land Title Data System, by the U.S. Department of communities,” President “I began reviewing the highest levels of the Listen. Take notes. a new database with the Interior in the summer Shelly said. “Gone are the programmatic agreements Navajo Nation Executive Navajo Nation exceptional firewall of 2014. days of building anywhere with the federal Branch has taught him that President Ben Shelly’s protection and countless “The Navajo Nation on the land. government and realized progress begins at the local advice to the more than tiers of information now has authority over “Everything is now that a lot of times, the level. 800 registered attendees providing real time data all leases on the Navajo recorded, monitored and Navajo Nation is in the Citing Title 26 of the of the 2nd Annual Navajo on everything from roads, Nation, with the exception protected to ensure we back seat,” Benally said. Navajo Nation Code, the Nation Land Summit was infrastructure, forested of minerals and right-of- are getting the most of our Updating outdated Local Governance Act, he straightforward. areas, water wells and ways. Those two are still tribal lands,” he added. policies can be done said certified chapters have “Please be sure you right-of-way areas, is the under the jurisdiction of with a little hard work an opportunity to issue attend the sessions and crown jewel of the Land the BIA,” President Shelly Paradigm Shift and persistence, he said, their own business site or take good notes to take Department. said. “The Beginning of because federal regulations home site leases. back with you to your President Shelly said, The Navajo Nation a Paradigm Shift that are not carved in stone. “Any plan that starts offices,” President Shelly “This new database will is vastly different from Promotes Independence” “There’s always in Window Rock is hard said. “There’s a lot of good automate services for the tribal government was the theme of the creative ways around to finish. If it starts from information that will be chapter members, tribal of 15 years past, he said, summit. Attendees existing law. That’s what the community, it’s not shared with you over the officials, and the general noting that technology included chapter officials, I kept telling the federal that hard to complete. next few days. public. People no longer savvy chapters are finding council delegates, tribal officials and now, we Local empowerment is For a second year, the have to travel to Window self-determination and enterprises, community are changing the criteria about doing for yourself,” Navajo Land Department Rock to find information.” transparency through land use planning for selecting contractors Mitchell said. provided information on Data is literally at the online tools like the committees, grazing that are working on the The Navajo Land the rigors of tribal land fingertips of the general Woven Integrated Navajo officials and land boards. Navajo Nation,” Benally Department is currently management and the public, as the NLTDS Data System. Moroni Benally, said. “This did not require uploading documents to numerous layers of data will be accessible on “Chapter officials executive director of the Navajo Nation Council or the Navajo Land Title Data that will be available to desktops, iPads and attending the land summit Navajo Nation Division Congressional approval.” System and they anticipate Navajos and non-Navajos even smart phones. The will learn about creating of Natural Resources, Benally challenged the the automation process to alike. Once again, the database works in tandem the most effective provided the welcome attendees to take control of be completed in the next Twin Arrows Navajo with the Navajo Nation Community Land address and encouraged the land so cities, towns, year or two. Casino Resort played host. General Leasing Act of Based Plans that serve the audience to realize that schools, factories and

8 Hózhoojí Nahat’áh Baa Hane’ MAY 2015 www.navajo-nsn.gov DINE’ YOUTH President Shelly funds more than $12.5 million President Shelly cuts in supplemental appropriations for projects ribbon for Shiprock WINDOW ROCK, extension, veterans and in the UUFB,” President has an existing claim Ariz.—Navajo Nation Navajo Transitional Shelly said. “After careful pending with Navajo Risk Youth Center President Ben Shelly Energy Company. consideration, I will Management and said has executed his line President Shelly said, exercise my line item veto they need to proceed with SHIPROCK, N.M.—It’s for the kids. item veto authority on “When my administration authority.” the claim to resolve their This morning, Navajo Nation President Ben Shelly Legislation No. 0089-15, first took office, the The Teesto Chapter funding needs. attended the grand opening of the Shiprock Youth Center which was requesting Unreserved, Undesignated request for $2,922,425 “On behalf of Vice and snipped the ribbon to officially open the spacious more than $19.7 million Fund Balance was in a to rebuild their chapter President Jim and I , we facility to the general public. in supplemental funding deficit of more than $22 house has been vetoed. would like to express our On March 6, 2013, President Shelly broke ground for from the Undesignated, million.” The $1,500,000 request appreciation to the Navajo the new youth center. The grand opening comes almost Unreserved Fund Balance. He said the for summer youth Nation Council,” President two years to the day. The legislation had administration worked employment has been Shelly said. “As we end “Our Navajo kids need opportunities to do something many projects listed, from diligently to replenish the vetoed. The $1,500,000 our duties, the fact that our constructive with their time. This new facility will give power line extensions, UUFB and maintained the for the public employment administration was fiscally them the opportunity to play sports and have a safe and chapter house construction, tribal policy of keeping program has been vetoed. responsible leaves us with sanitary place to meet,” President Shelly said. capital improvement the balance above the 10 The request for $1,000,000 great pride.” The $6.6 million facility was funded by the U.S. projects, summer youth percent threshold. for veterans has been A total of $12,859,429.21 Department of Housing and Urban Development. employment, public “Therefore, my vetoed. of projects were approved Measuring 22,000 square feet, the center features rooms employment program, administration will not The president noted and funded by President for art, games, learning, technology, media and the open zoo aviary, water line leave office with a deficit that the Teesto Chapter Shelly. ceiling gym. The new facility is a welcome distraction for Navajo kids seeking recreational activities that don’t involve PRESIDENT SHELLY HONORS ALEX K. YAZZIE drug or alcohol abuse. President Shelly said the war against drugs and alcohol FARMINGTON, in a protective circle. give you a hard time,” killed. on the Navajo Nation is a daily challenge. N.M.—Thousands of For those unable to President Shelly said. “These are Navajos I’m “We need to teach our children about the dangers of people gathered. be seated, they stood in “Domestic violence calls talking about. Society is these addictive lifestyles,” he said. The funeral services the back and watched are the most dangerous.” changing,” he added. The new multipurpose building goes a long way for fallen Navajo Police the proceedings, while In spite of this, brave With the increase toward addressing those dangers, in addition to replacing officer Alex K. Yazzie was hundreds of other stood men and women don the population and changing the dilapidated old facility, which is more than 50 years emotional. outside the church and uniform and protect their social values, President old. Police officers, fire waited. communities, he noted, Shelly said more funding Our kids are the future leaders of tomorrow, the fighters, emergency Navajo Nation President with the understanding is needed from the president said, adding that more youth centers like the medical personnel and Ben Shelly provided that they have only three federal, state and tribal one in Shiprock need to be constructed at chapters across other first responders remarks. to six seconds to react in governments to properly the Navajo Nation. answered the call to pay He said the Nation is dangerous situations. equip officers for changing “First Lady and I have dedicated our lives to protecting final respect to one of their grieving and saddened by Beyond those daily times. Navajo children,” President Shelly said. “It started at our comrades. the loss of a tribal officer challenges, Navajo Police “We are shorthanded. home with our kids and grandkids. They came from that gave his life to protect have to work with less. Believe it or not, the “Our homes are the first learning centers for our different states, different others. Whether it’s funding Navajo Police officers kids,” he added. counties and different “I would like to thank to purchase equipment, that are here, one officer Thanking the Navajo Nation Division of Community tribes. But the common all the law enforcement pay salaries or simple has to cover 1,282 persons. Development, Navajo Housing Authority, Division of thread was that they all officers that are here from manpower, there’s not Farmington has more Dine’ Education and the Office of Dine Youth, President worked to serve the public the different agencies. enough to cover the officers as whole, than the Shelly said it was a collaborative effort that made the and the greater good. Thank you for being with tremendous land base of Navajo Police as a force,” project a reality. Members from the U.S. us and with the family,” the Navajo Nation, he President Shelly said. Design and Engineering Services worked with Dyron Armed Forces were also President Shelly said. added. Upon concluding his Murphy for the architecture and design. Oakland-Arviso in attendance, with many Police officers face The times are changing. address, President Shelly provided the construction. wearing the dress uniforms many challenges: stress “When I was growing presented the family of President Shelly said the 2014 presidential election in honor of the departed. and emotional toll, he said, up, I remember a non- Alex K. Yazzie the Navajo taught the Navajo people the most important lesson of A large American flag adding that interaction Navajo, hungry or thirsty, Nation Flag and saluted all – the preservation of self-identity. draped between two cranes with the public is usually another Navajo would his brave service and “(The election) taught us the importance of preserving fully extended marked the met with a sharp eye and pick him up, feed him and tragic sacrifice. our Navajo language and culture. I have great hope that entrance to the Pinon Hill equally cutting words. give him water,” President this new facility will help us preserve those elements in Community Church, which “The people you stop, Shelly said. “What’s our lives,” he said. was filled to capacity. they never have a nice today’s world? Right now, Police officers stood along word to say to (officers.) if you’re in that situation, the walls of church interior They chew on you, they you get beat up or you get www.navajo-nsn.gov MAY 2015 Hózhoojí Nahat’áh Baa Hane’ 9 NAVAJO AGRICULTURE President Shelly praises Navajo Beef initiative, supports hard work of Navajo ranchers

President Shelly praised the Navajo Beef program with Labatt Food Service and said the superior grade beef is something Navajos all over the world can be proud of. (Photo by Rick Abasta)

ince 2011, the the program and board Finally, Labatt service distributor percent to $745,940 for horseback, which reduces Navajo Beef members from gaming. distributes the beef to nationally, said Al Silva, 236,000 pounds of usable the stress on the cattle and initiative has The Labatt Premium casinos, schools, travel chief operating officer of meat harvested. in turn means a tender been growing Verified Native American and health centers in the Labatt Food Service. In 2014, there were meat product. Sand offering unmatched Beef program partners southwest. “Navajos Silva said the idea to 481 head of cattle in the “A calf needs a booster culinary delights at casinos select Navajo ranchers supporting Navajos” is the incorporate Navajo Beef Navajo Beef Program. For shot like your kid needs a owned and operated by with Navajo casinos. The overarching theme. into the menus of Navajo 2015, that number grew booster shot,” Silva said. Navajo Nation Gaming company has expanded President Shelly said the casinos was an important to 561 and estimates for Proper vaccinations Enterprise. their program to include Navajo Beef initiative is step to prove the quality future project continued mean the cattle are less On Feb. 10, Navajo other tribes and pueblos. not only a source of pride, of the meat. The decision growth. susceptible to diseases and Nation President Navajo cattle is but also a tremendous by NNGE to become the Silva said, “You can illnesses. Healthy cattle Ben Shelly met with purchased, placed on opportunity for self- first customer for Navajo see the product is superior equals weight increase and representatives of NNGE to feed and ultimately sufficiency. Beef has opened the door to anybody else’s product. a superior product for the and Labatt Food Service at processed into boxed “For generations, we to other opportunities There’s no apology there.” growing niche market of the Hyatt Regency Tamaya beef items upon market have known that livestock like tribal schools and The steaks served at the Navajo Beef. Resort at Santa Ana Pueblo readiness. The beef is is an important Navajo hospitals. dinner were flavorful and Last year, Navajo to discuss progress with then distributed to Navajo way of life that must be The partnership marbled with succulent ranchers averaged $1,200 the Navajo Beef program. casinos to be enjoyed by preserved,” President connects producers with cuts of tenderness that per head through the The group dined on the consumer. Shelly said. “By working consumers and Navajo Silva says is unmatched Navajo Beef program, Navajo Beef prepared by Local Navajo ranchers with our partners at Navajo cattle ranchers are able because of ranching Silva said. Labatt serves the executive chef of the ship their cattle to feedlots Gaming Enterprise and to market their cattle at a techniques incorporating Navajo Beef at all Navajo Corn Maiden Restaurant owned by Billy Hall, a Labatt, we are enriching premium and increase their a low stress environment casinos and plans are to for a high class dining cattle buyer who owns our tribal economy and bottom line for economic and low antibiotic use. pitch the product to other experience that was one the number one certified traditional way of life. stability. Navajo ranchers are industries on the Navajo part celebration and one Angus feedlot in the “We look forward to In 2013, Navajo literally doting on their Nation. part demonstration. country. From there, cattle growing this partnership ranchers had a ranching head of cattle, Silva President Shelly is Joining in the dinner are shipped to a harvest for the generations to economic impact of said, ensuring they are proud of the Navajo Beef were representatives from facility and then to direct come,” he added. $439,768 through sales of vaccinated, watered and initiative and said the NNGE, Labatt, Navajo source meat processing Labatt is the eighth their cattle. In 2014, that fed. They are herded by steak was the best he’s ranchers participating in facilities. largest broad line food number increased by 15 cattlemen on foot or on ever tasted.

10 Hózhooí Nahat’áh Baa Hane’ MAY 2015 www.navajo-nsn.gov EDUCATION EAGLE AVIARY FUNDING Vice President Rex Lee Jim visits rural advanced education center Program and the U.S. for approximately 90 Economic Development students who take college Administration in Austin courses in English, history and Zapata County in and math from Laredo Texas as he toured the Community College Zapata County Technical through videoconferencing and Advanced Education and in-person with adjunct Center (ZTAC). professors. “The Navajo Nation is The vice president encouraged by the success said a facility like this in of this facility. We envision the Navajo Nation would a similar facility in the serve as a model for public, Navajo Nation focused on private and academic ZAPATA, Tex.— education, training, career partnerships in community Advancing education development for Navajo health and education and and technology, Navajo people in healthcare will result in job creation Nation Vice President education,” said Vice for Navajo citizens and Rex Lee Jim met with Rep. President Jim. better health outcomes Henry Cuellar, D-Texas, ZTAC opened its for our most vulnerable and officials from the doors in 2011 and citizens living off road on President Shelly and First Lady Martha Shelly adopted Shellie, a golden eagle with an injured wing, upon Harvard Medical School provides educational and Navajo lands. taking office in 2011. Deeply moved by the plight of these majestic birds of prey, President Shelly resolved Global Health Delivery training opportunities to fund an eagle aviary for the protection of the eagles. He said Navajo people, especially young ones, must learn about the conservation efforts for the golden eagles on the Nation. (Photo by Rick Abasta)

Continued from Page 1 square feet and will house have a security system to public with an exhibit up to 30 injured, non- monitor the eagles. HONORING NAVAJO POLICE HERO ALEX K. YAZZIE dedicated to conservation releasable golden eagles. A federal grant from of the birds of prey. President Shelly the U.S. Fish and Wild “This week, I will said, “The new aviary Life Service provided sign off and approve will provide live eagle $200,000 for initial design legislation to fund more feathers to the Navajo and engineering of the than $400,000 for the people through a program aviary in 2014. The total construction of the eagle established by the project cost is estimated at aviary. I have been very Navajo Nation Zoo and $757,935. passionate about this Navajo Fish and Wildlife President Shelly said project,” President Shelly Department.” the new aviary is a chance said. David Mikesic, curator to teach Navajo people President Shelly will of the Navajo Nation Zoo, about eagle conservation, approve $401,514 in said naturally shed feathers especially young children. supplemental funding from the golden eagles are “The Navajo Nation to cover the remaining going to be distributed in will become known as construction costs for the a legal manner pursuant an aviary tribe and we project. to federal regulations for will continue to push for In 2011, the Navajo traditional purposes. the protection of these Nation became the fourth Not only will this magnificent birds. It is our Native American tribe in expedite the process for hope that the new aviary the U.S. to be permitted for eagle feathers, but it will will attract more visitors an eagle aviary. The aviary also reduce illegal actions and hopefully, more measures 4,133 square feet on eagles in the wild, he funding. and will be located in the said. “This is your zoo, take center of the zoo. The aviary will also pride in it,” he added. Drinking ponds, storage, examination rooms, office space, an observation area “I will approve legislation to On March 26, 2015, Navajo Nation President Ben Shelly honored Navajo Police Officer Alex K. Yazzie and gallery are included during funeral services at Pinon Hills Community Church in Farmington. Having served as a N.M. in the conceptual design fund more than $400,000 for State Police officer for a period of four years, President Shelly said he had firsthand knowledge of the aviary. The eagle of the dangers law enforcement officers face on a daily basis. Officer Yazzie was lost in the line of duty on March 19, while protecting others from an armed gun man. (Photos by Rick Abasta) aviary area will have 2,533 the construction of the aviary.”

www.navajo-nsn.gov MAY 2015 Hózhoojí Nahat’áh Baa Hane’ 11