Basketball Hall of Fame Page 11

Indigenous Sundance Page 9

Volume 16, Issue 3 • March 2020

Fifteen Osages file for candidacy seeking Congressional office in 2020 election Benny Polacca Osage News

A total of 15 Osages are running Joe Tillman Jodie Revard Michael Bristow Colt Herren John Maker for the Seventh Con- gress in the June 1 general election – the same number of candidates who ran for legislative office in the 2018 election. Those candidates who filed by the March 2 deadline will be subject to background checks and the ON Election Office will meet March 9 to consider certifying the candidates whose names will appear on the ballot. Eligible Congressional can- didates are tribally enrolled Osages Melissa Dailey Jim Trumbly Billy Keene Michael Kidder Pam Shaw who are at least 25 years old on elec- tion day and who do not have felony convictions, according to the 2006 Osage Constitution. On Feb. 5 – the first day of the filing period – four Osages filed their candidacy and paid the $300 filing fee at the Election Office in Pawhuska. Incumbent Joe Tillman, current- ly the Congressional Speaker, filed See Candidates Maria Whitehorn Mary Jo Pratt Amanda Proctor RJ Walker Shannon Edwards —Continued on Page 14

Mediation talks to begin Allegations arise after report in tribal gaming compact of Congresswoman’s tribal dispute with state Lenzy Krehbiel-Burton all, of the talks to be com- Osage News pleted by March 31. judgeship is published A former U.S. Attorney, Shannon Shaw Duty CITY — Phillips is a former federal Osage News With 14 tribes now suing judge who served on both the 10th Circuit Court of Gov. , the fate of The Congressional Rules Appeals and the Western Oklahoma’s gaming compact and Ethics Committee met District of Oklahoma. The may be decided by a media- on Feb. 25 and Feb. 27 to dis- alumnus tor rather than a judge. cuss Congresswoman Shan- now leads an arbitration and On Feb. 14, Judge Timo- non Edwards’ appointment mediation firm based out of thy DeGuisti with the West- as an appellate justice for Corona del Mar, California. ern District of Oklahoma the Arizona-based Yavapai- The appointment came on appointed Layn Phillips as Apache Nation. the same day as the deadline a mediator in a lawsuit over After the Osage News pub- for tribes to officially join lit- the status of Oklahoma’s lished an article in its Febru- igation against the governor. model state-tribal gaming ary 2020 edition, written by compact with the under- the Yavapai-Apache Nation standing that most, if not See Mediation —Continued on Page 6 News about the swearing in of Edwards as their new ap- pellate justice, allegations be- gan to arise on social media Absentee ballot requests that she disqualified herself to Courtesy Photo/Yavapai-Apache Nation News serve as a member of the Osage Yavapai-Apache Nation council members swore in Osage Nation Con- due by April 17 to vote Nation Congress by taking the gresswoman Shannon L. Edwards in their council chambers on Aug. judgeship. The News obtained 6, 2019, to the position of Associate Appellate Justice. Chairperson the article about her swearing Jane Russell-Winiecki (center) administered the Oath of Office to in 2020 election in after Edwards sent a copy of Justice Edwards. it to the Osage News’ Editorial On April 27, the Election Of- Benny Polacca Board on Jan. 24. Under Article VI of the ON Attorney General Clint fice staff will begin mailing out Osage News According to the Clerk of Osage constitution, under Patterson responded to a re- absentee ballots from Pawhus- Court for the Yavapai-Apache, Section 5 under Disqualifica- quest for comment about the ka to those who requested Osages planning to vote as Edwards took her oath of office tions, it states “… No member allegations. them by the deadline. After- absentee voters in the June 1 on Aug. 6 of last year and had a of the Osage Nation Congress “It’s not for me to say wheth- ward, voters must send their Osage Nation General Election signed contract with the tribal shall hold any other tribal of- er she conclusively violated completed ballots back in the must submit absentee ballot nation for her work. The clerk fice under another Indian na- her Constitutional oath of of- supplied envelope, which must request forms to the Election also verified that Edwards tion during his/her term of fice. I know she took an oath, be received in the Pawhuska Office by April 17. has not performed prior legal office…” I know the oath says to uphold Post Office by June 1 to be The absentee ballot request work for Yavapai-Apache and Under Article VI of the and defend the Constitution, I counted that day. deadline is among important is still working as the appel- Yavapai-Apache Nation con- know the Constitution says no Absentee ballot request dates set by the ON Election late justice as of Feb. 21. The stitution, Section 6 under member of the Osage Nation forms can be downloaded from Board for the 2020 general Yavapai-Apache Tribal Sec- Term of Office, it states “… Congress shall hold any other election. The June 1 ballot will the ON Election Office vot- retary denied an Osage News The Chief Judge of the Court tribal office under another In- include candidate choices for er forms website at: https:// request for a copy of the signed of Appeals shall hold office for dian nation during his or her the Seventh ON Congress with www.osagenation-nsn.gov/ contract and denied a copy of three (3) years. The remaining term of office, and I know she two (2) Appellate Judges shall six seats opening and at least See Election the oath Edwards took at her See Allegations hold office for two (2) years …” two ballot questions. —Continued on Page 17 swearing in. —Continued on Page 5

Inside the Osage News Follow the Osage News Online Election Board Confirms Dates...... 3 Culture Column ...... 14 • Breaking news at osagenews.org TPS Says Indian Ed Reorganization Still Happening...... 3 Community...... 15 • facebook.com/osagenews Native American Ballerinas from Oklahoma Honored. . . . 6 Classifieds...... 16 • twitter.com/osagenews Now Hiring Election Day Workers...... 7 Obituaries...... 17 • flickr.com/osagenews 2 March 2020 Osage News • osagenews.org Osage News • osagenews.org March 2020 3 TPS tells community Indian Ed reorganization still happening Lenzy Krehbiel-Burton Osage News

TULSA, Okla. — Roughly 200 parents, students, commu- nity members, tribal leaders and employees sounded off for four hours at a Jan. 30 com- munity meeting about Tulsa Election Board confirms Public Schools’ proposed reor- ganization plan for its Indian Education Program. dates for candidate Packed into the Wilson Teaching and Learning Acad- emy’s cafetorium, attendees campaign requirements largely made it clear to Super- Shannon Shaw Duty person and their work ar- intendent Deborah Gist, school All photos by CODY HAMMER/Osage News Osage News rangement once they filed board members and other dis- Tulsa Public Schools Superintendent Deborah Gist answers questions their candidacy. trict officials, that they were from the Native Youth Board at a community meeting to discuss the fu- The Osage Nation Elec- To date, seven individuals not happy about the potential ture of the Indian Education Program in Tulsa on Jan. 30. changes or the district’s com- tion Board confirmed the have filed their candidacy. munication efforts regarding dates for candidate cam- They are Tillman, Jodie Re- the Indian Education Program. through federal funds, would enough funds to pay teachers paign requirements and dis- vard, Michael Bristow, Colt “I’ve heard this is just be eligible to apply for one of across 21 sites a stipend for up cussed other issues at their Herren, John Maker, Melis- the beginning of a conversa- those three spots or be moved to four months to provide after regularly scheduled meeting sa Dailey and Jim Trumbly. tion,” (Creek) Na- to another position within school tutoring for Indian Edu- the district. cation students. The proposal on Feb. 11. The following dates were tion Second Chief Del Beaver However, citing early feed- as presented on Jan. 30 calls Incumbent Joe Tillman, approved by the board at said. “I really hope it is. Part- back, the proposed reorganiza- for expanding tutoring to every who is the current Congres- their Feb. 11 meeting: nership starts with honest, open conversation. tion presented to parents and TPS site for eight months. sional Speaker for the Sixth • March 2, Candidate “It’s all about our kids. community members on Jan. The initial proposal was Osage Nation Congress, was Filing Ends That’s what this boils 30 differed from the one ini- based off of responses to a Ti- present at the meeting and tially presented to the depart- tle VI/JOM needs assessment • March 9, Regular Board down to.” had questions about building As part of its efforts to shore ment’s staff on Jan. 15 and the conducted at the beginning Meeting; Candidate usage for campaign events. up a $20 million budget short- Greater Tulsa Indian Affairs of the school year. However, Certification He said he was interested fall for the 2020-2021 school Commission. many attendees took exception Although it still calls for a to the methodology used to col- in using the Title VI build- • March 12, Contest of year, Tulsa Public Schools of- reduction in resource advis- lect those responses, as the as- ing in Fairfax but wanted to Candidacy Ends ficials confirmed on Jan. 17 that 84 non-teaching positions ers from seven to three, it also sessment was only handed out make sure the usage of the • March 17, Contest of across the district have been changes the number of addi- to parents who came to pick up building didn’t violate the Candidacy Hearing recommended for elimination. tional non-certified teacher’s school supplies from the Indian election code since the build- Period Ends Among the employees receiv- assistants that would be posi- Education Program in August. ing is owned by the Nation. tioned at elementary schools “So you’re telling me that the • March 20, Candidate ing letters that recommend- Attorney General Clint around the district. Instead of parents whose children didn’t Workshop; Ballot Order/ ed the elimination of their Patterson said that since current job due to the budget eight as originally proposed, need donated school supplies Campsite Drawings; there would be six and a cul- didn’t get to take this assess- the building is sometimes crunch were the seven re- Ballot Approval – to tural enrichment specialist ment?” an angry grandmother used for communal use and source advisers for TPS’ Indian be held in the Osage would be hired to work with asked in disbelief. “I call BS on the person or entity using Education Program. Nation Law Building in The proposed reorganiza- Native TPS students across all all of this and all of you.” the building has to fill out Room 121 tion of the district’s Indian grades. That position would be In addition to taking ex- a rental agreement and pay paid for with funds originally ception to the reorganization, • April 14, Regular Board Education Program calls for it a fee, he didn’t think it vio- to have just three resource ad- slotted for the other two teach- many attendees also made it Meeting lated the code. The election visers to work with TPS’ Indig- ing assistant positions. clear that they did not appreci- board agreed. • April 17, Absentee enous secondary students on Some of the remaining Title ate not being consulted earlier Tillman pointed out that Request Deadline; a 12-month contract. The sev- VI money would also be used to in the process. Under Title VI pay for more tutoring stipends. of the Elementary and Sec- he is currently the only Election Notice Mail Out en current advisers, who are all certified teachers paid for Currently, the district has ondary School Education Act, candidate running from • April 27, Absentee school districts that receive the Grayhorse District and Mailing Begins federal funds specifically for could theoretically be the Indian Education are required • May 11, Campaign only candidate interested in to consult with parents, teach- Reporting Statement using the building. Howev- ers and tribal officials about Filing Begins er, in past elections Fairfax how those dollars are spent. and Grayhorse community • May 15, Campaign Department employees were first notified about the - reor residents have held Meet Reporting Statements ganization efforts on Jan. 15, and Greets, campaign din- Filing Deadline; Poll while the district’s parent com- watcher Forms due ners and other events to pro- mittee was appraised in execu- mote candidates, regardless • May 18, Regular Board tive session two days later. TPS of their district. Historically, Meeting students were not formally ap- the Grayhorse District has proached prior to the commu- • May 28, Absentee Early had the third-highest voting Processing percentage out of the three Muscogee Creek Nation Second Chief Del Beaver speaks during the TPS See Reorganization meeting in Tulsa on Jan.30. —Continued on Page 14 districts on the Osage reser- • May 29, Early Voting vation. Day 1, 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tillman brought up an- • May 30, Early Voting other issue of a possible Day 2, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. ON Election Board hires printing candidate who wished to re- • June 1, Election Day, 8 main anonymous, that was a.m. to 8 p.m. still deciding whether they • June 5, Recount/ company for 2020 election mailings wanted to file their candida- for Tulsa area candidates running for office, lo- Challenge Deadline Benny Polacca cy for the 2020 General Elec- Osage News cal school districts, universities, businesses and tion. He said that the person • June 9, Regular Board other tribes including the Pawnee and Chicka- works as a contractor, who Meeting; Election The Osage Nation Election Board is hiring a saw nations, Cockrell said, adding past smaller works for another contrac- Results Certification Broken Arrow-based printing company for its jobs can contain 500 mailings. Target Marketing has also handled past tor who works for the Osage • June 16, Campaign planned mailings to Osage voters for the 2020 general election including absentee ballots. jobs for the ON Museum and Nation, Casinos. Patterson said the Reporting Statements After a discussion on print and mailing which included the company’s largest job where board could consider that filing deadline quotes, the Election Board unanimously select- 620,000 pieces of promotional literature were ed Target Marketing Print and Mail Solutions mailed out, Cockrell said. to handle the printing of information to Osage “We like to work very closely with our print- voters regarding the June 1 general election. ing company because we have some pretty spe- Target Marketing and an com- cific things that are involved with our absentee mailing,” Lockett said. “There’s a signature that pany both submitted bids for the election mail- has to show (in envelope window), there’s spe- ing services, which were considered during a cific designs that we have to be confident will be Feb. 19 special board meeting. accurate so everything will fit, and everything 604 Kihekah • Pawhuska, OK 74056 The Election Board, along with Election Su- will show like it’s supposed to (in mailings).” (918) 287-5668 pervisor Alexis Rencountre, considered the “We also have some really hard and fast dead- business locations (should a company visit be www.osagenews.org lines where we have to get things out so voters needed) in addition to price quotes, including can get their ballots in time to mark them and Editor postage costs. The quote for Target Marketing’s return them and get them back to us before the services totals $18,114, according to Election Shannon Shaw Duty election,” Lockett said to Cockrell, adding from Board Chairwoman Shannon Lockett. past election experiences that “our voter base Rencountre said the printing job will cover can be hard to please sometimes, they don’t Senior Reporter the absentee ballots and accompanying enve- like mistakes, none of us do and they certainly Benny Polacca lopes, an official election notice to be mailed to hold us to task when we have them, so we try all voters, as well as one or two mailouts with to avoid that … this is a very important part of Staff Photographer any additional election information. our election.” During the meeting, the board visited with Cody Hammer Cockrell said she understood Lockett’s con- Danielle Cockrell, president of Target Market- cerns, noting “we know that certain situations ing, who said her business is Native Ameri- call for hands-on, so we’re definitely very in- Osage News Editorial can-owned, has a Tribal Employment Rights volved at that level … we can work hand-in- Board Members Office (TERO) certification and was founded in hand here.” Jerri Jean Branstetter 1988. According to a 2020 general election import- The 2020 ON general election will be the first ant date list, absentee ballot request forms must Teresa Trumbly Lamsam time Target Marketing will be handling elec- be submitted to the Election Office by April 17 Tara McLain Manthey tion-related printings for the Nation. at 4:30 p.m. CST. Absentee ballot mailing will The company has handled print and mail jobs begin on April 27. 4 March 2020 Osage News • osagenews.org Tulsa Title VI Parent Committee wants role in planning TPS’ Indian Ed reorg Lenzy Krehbiel-Burton “We made it clear up front that Osage News the letter did not count as formal consultation,” rep- TULSA, Okla. — Members of Tulsa resentative Adam McCreary told the Public Schools’ Title VI parent com- parent committee. mittee made it clear at their four- Also at issue for the parent com- hour-long Feb. 11 meeting that they mittee was that the collaboration are tired of being left out of the con- commitment did not include the eight versations regarding a proposed re- TPS-sponsored charter schools. TPS organization of the district’s Indian does not receive Johnson-O’Malley, LENZY KREHBIEL-BURTON/Osage News Education Program. Title VI or Cherokee Nation car tag Hoover Elementary School students Jerek White Cloud (left) and Devon White Cloud protest funds for Native students at those “This reorganization was given to at a Feb. 22 Tulsa Public Schools community meeting focusing on the Indian Education pro- sites and its Indian Education Pro- us by TPS as ‘This is what we’re go- gram reorganization. ing to do,’” parent committee member gram currently does not serve those Heather Hoover said. “We weren’t schools. given a chance to say, ‘Why not do it “I want to at least see space for Community wants communication, more this way?’ them to step up,” parent committee “It felt like we were basically treat- member Aaron Griffith said. “They cultural programs for students in TPS ed as an afterthought.” are part of the problem with our lets, the turnout was smaller than the Before a full house in the Grant declining enrollment.” Lenzy Krehbiel-Burton district’s last community meeting, a Building’s break room – the facility’s The parent committee was not the Osage News four-hour affair in late January. A sec- largest room – the parent committee only objector to Gist’s collaboration TULSA, Okla. — In light of continued ond community meeting is scheduled voted 3-1 to rescind its chairwoman’s announcement. While announcing objections from the Native community, for 6 p.m. on Feb. 26 at the Wilson signature on a collaboration letter re- her organization’s formal opposition Tulsa Public Schools hosted the first Teaching and Learning Academy at garding the proposed reorganization to the proposed reorganization, past of two conversation-focused communi- 2710 E. 11th St. and send it back to district officials president Lucyann Harjo said OCIE ty meetings Feb. 22 about its plans to Despite pushback from the district’s with a list of concerns. was not even contacted about the col- laboration commitment until Feb. 10 overhaul its Indian Education Program. parent committee, TPS Superinten- At the Feb. 3 board of education dent Deborah Gist confirmed after – a week after it was name-checked at Divided into small groups scattered meeting, TPS Superintendent Debo- the meeting that the reorganization the school board meeting. across the Wilson Teaching and Learn- rah Gist announced a commitment to is still slated to go before the board of “We appreciate this request for ing Academy’s cafeteria, about 30 par- collaboration promising formal trib- education in March, although a specific official ongoing collaboration as you ents, teachers, students and community al consultations with leaders from date has not yet been set. District offi- consider a reorganization or restruc- members gave district representatives the Cherokee, Osage and Muscogee cials also confirmed that Tulsa Public turing, which would be in our opinion, an earful about the needs of TPS’ Indig- (Creek) nations, as well as working Schools is still working on scheduling a regression of services to the high enous students for two hours. with leadership from the Greater Tul- the required tribal consultation ses- number of Native children in your Attendees were given discussion sa Indian Affairs Commission, Okla- sions with the Cherokee, Muscogee district, ” Harjo said, reading a letter prompts at their table with about 15 homa Council for Indian Education, (Creek) and Osage nations. OCIE sent to both Gist and the school minutes per topic. Prompts included Tulsa Native Youth Board and the Furthermore, with more than 60 board. what has worked for the district’s In- National Indian Education Associa- tribes represented among its roughly The proposed reorganization of dian Education Program and what has tion before making any formal recom- 3,100 Indigenous students, the district the district’s Indian Education Pro- not; what specific services should get mendations. priority and how can the district better is still seeking guidance from the state gram calls for it to have just three Chairwoman Hether Cuervo was support its Native students. Department of Education on wheth- resource advisers to work with TPS’ among the signatories, although Among those at the Feb. 22 meeting er those consultation sessions need to Indigenous secondary students on a the parent committee was not ex- was Michelle Gray, a Cherokee parent include additional tribes, such as the 12-month contract. The seven current plicitly mentioned as one of the of three TPS students at two of the dis- Choctaw Nation, which has a sizeable advisers, who are all certified teach- entities that would be part of the trict’s magnet sites, Dual Language enrollment within the district or those ers paid for through federal funds, collaborative effort. Academy and Carver Middle School. tribes that fall within the 50 mile radius would be eligible to apply for one of “It says in the letter that they (TPS Along with concerns that tutoring, recommendation for districts that are those three spots or be moved to an- officials) are pursuing greater collab- cultural programming and other ad- not within a specific jurisdictional area. other position within the district. oration,” parent committee member vertised opportunities are not being Under federal law, tribal consulta- As currently worded, the depart- Robin LeBlanc said. “Never once does offered at her children’s schools, she tions are required for school districts ment would also have six non-certified it mention the parent committee. All told district representatives that more that receive more than $40,000 in Title teacher’s assistants at elementary they ever mention is that we’ll contin- communication is needed to ensure Na- VI funds. Similar to the federal gov- schools and a cultural enrichment ue to have monthly meetings. They’re tive families are aware of the resources ernment, the Oklahoma Department of specialist would be hired to work not going to collaborate with us but in available and what they have to do to Education recommends 30 days notice, with Native TPS students across all the law it says we have to participate in access them. 60 days for a response and an addition- grades. all negotiations.” TPS has maintained that the reorga- al 30 days for collaboration if needed. Some of the remaining Title VI In addition to taking exception to nization is due to a declining number of The proposed reorganization of the money would also be used to pay for not being formally mentioned in the 506 forms from students, which is used district’s Indian Education Program more tutoring stipends. Currently, letter, members of the parent com- to determine Title VI funding from the calls for it to have just three resource the district has enough funds to pay mittee expressed concern that the let- U.S. Department of Education, as well advisers to work with TPS’ Indigenous teachers across 21 sites a stipend for ter would be used as a substitute for as car tag revenue contributions from secondary students on a 12-month up to four months to provide after formal tribal consultation sessions. the Cherokee Nation. contract. The seven current advisers, school tutoring for Indian Education According to district officials, “There’s nothing on the enrollment who are all certified teachers paid for students. The proposal as presented no formal consultations have been forms that says a 506 form is needed,” through federal funds, would be eligi- on Jan. 30 calls for expanding tutor- scheduled as of Feb. 12 – just pre- Gray said, noting that she did not even ble to apply for one of those three spots ing to every TPS site for eight months. liminary discussions. Under federal know about the forms until a teacher, or be moved to another position within law, tribal consultations are required District officials have maintained also a Cherokee Nation citizen, pulled the district. for school districts that receive more that the reorganization is necessary her aside. “When I enrolled my kids, As currently worded, the depart- than $40,000 in Title VI funds. Sim- due to a drop in Native student en- I checked the ‘I’ box and thought we ment would also have six non-certified ilar to the federal government, the rollment based on the 506 forms re- were good. teacher’s assistants spread across the Oklahoma Department of Education turned by parents that are used to “You have to do a better job of iden- district’s 46 elementary schools and a recommends 30 days notice, 60 days determine federal and tribal per-pu- tifying Native students to start with.” cultural enrichment specialist would for a response and an additional 30 See TPS With an incorrect start time circu- be hired to work with Native TPS stu- days for collaboration if needed. —Continued on Page 18 lating online and in some media out- dents across all grades. TPS extends timeline for proposed reorg of Indian Ed program Lenzy Krehbiel-Burton and conversations with other tribal na- Osage News tions as we serve students who repre- sent over 65 Native American tribes.” TULSA, Okla. — Citing commu- Additionally, a parent survey will nity feedback, Tulsa Public Schools be sent out in February. Citing the is extending the timeline for a pro- low sample size for the Title VI/JOM posed reorganization of its Indian needs assessment conducted in Au- Education Program. gust, one of the specific suggestions At the Feb. 3 school board meeting, made at the district’s Jan. 30 commu- TPS Superintendent Deborah Gist an- nity meeting about the program’s sta- nounced that any changes to the dis- tus was to poll parents again about the trict’s Indian Education Program will program’s needs. not go before the board in mid-Febru- Partain declined to provide a spe- ary as originally planned. Instead, a re- cific timetable for the survey’s release organization proposal will be brought but said it would be made available to the board in March at the earliest as through multiple channels and in district officials sort through communi- Spanish in an effort to reach more par- ty feedback. ents. There are no plans at this time “We know there’s more we need to to offer it in Osage, Cherokee or Creek, know,” Gist said. but Partain said document translation Along with formal consultations with services will be available upon request. the Muscogee (Creek), Cherokee and The proposed reorganization of the Osage nations, district officials will be district’s Indian Education Program meeting with the Greater Tulsa Indian calls for it to have just three resource Affairs Commission, Oklahoma Coun- advisers to work with TPS’ Indigenous cil for Indian Education, Tulsa Native secondary students on a 12-month Youth Board and the National Indian contract. The seven current advisers, Education Association before making a who are all certified teachers paid for final recommendation. through federal funds, would be eligi- “Our commitment is to increase our ble to apply for one of those three spots collaborative conversations and formal or be moved to another position within consultations with Cherokee Nation, the district. Muscogee Creek Nation and Osage As currently worded, the depart- Nation in addition to what is required ment would also have six non-certified within the Every Student Succeeds Act,” TPS spokeswoman Lauren Par- See Extension tain said. “We welcome engagement —Continued on Page 18 Osage News • osagenews.org March 2020 5 Congressional Rules and Ethics committee recommends special session for Edwards’ removal Shannon Shaw Duty Congress takes before answer- The rules also state: “The Osage News ing those questions. motion (for removal) shall be “As far as a question from based on removal for cause, The Congressional Rules Congresswoman Edwards which shall include one or and Ethics Committee voted about who or what’s an offi- more of the following charges: unanimously to recommend cer … that’s going to be pretty willful neglect of duty, malfea- a special session for the pur- easy. Because their [Yavapai- sance in office, habitual use pose of removing Congress- Apache] constitution says it is of alcohol or drugs, inability woman Shannon Edwards an officer. And clearly, she’s an to meet the qualifications to from office for disqualification officer of the Osage Nation by serve, conviction of a felony under the constitution for her constitution definitions. So, I or conviction of a misdemean- appointment as an appellate don’t know what that question or involving moral turpitude justice to the Arizona-based would look like, I would have while in office, undermining Yavapai-Apache Nation to wait and see it,” Patterson the integrity of the office, dis- said. “To me, it’s pretty clear Supreme Court. regard of constitutional duties cut on both sides.” The committee also voted to CODY HAMMER/Osage News and oath of office, arrogation of Pratt said she had verified waive the rules of procedure power, or abuse of the govern- The Congressional Rules and Ethics committee met on Feb. 25 to discuss with the Clerk of Court for the for removal and move straight ment process.” to a vote on a motion for remov- possible ethics violations. Yavapai-Apache that Edwards In the constitution, under al. This means if the Congress was an appointee, that there is Article XII, under Removal, it convenes for a special session committee are Congresswom- Section 5, under Disqualifica- a contract but they could not states: “… The motion for re- to consider the removal of Ed- en Brandy Lemon and Second tions, it states “… No member give it to her. moval shall list fully the basis wards, there will be no Select Speaker Paula Stabler. of the Osage Nation Congress “As of yesterday afternoon, for the proceeding and must be Committee of Inquiry to gath- After the Osage News pub- shall hold any other tribal of- about 2:30 p.m., the court clerk er evidence for her removal, lished an article in its Feb- fice under another Indian na- had not received any notifica- approved by a two-thirds (2/3) as was the case with the 2014 ruary 2020 edition about the tion during his/her term of tion of resignation from that vote of the members. Trial on removal trial of former-Princi- swearing-in of Edwards as the office …” position,” Pratt said. “I am removal shall then be con- pal Chief John Red Eagle. It Yavapai-Apache’s new appel- Under Article VI of the awaiting confirmation because ducted by the Osage Nation takes eight signatures for the late justice, allegations began Yavapai-Apache Nation con- she said her office isn’t neces- Congress with the accused Congress to call itself into a to arise on social media that stitution, Section 6 under sarily the office that would re- afforded due process and an special session. she disqualified herself to Term of Office, it states “… ceive that resignation.” opportunity to be heard. An Congresswoman Angela serve as a member of the Con- The Chief Judge of the Court She said she has left two Osage Nation Supreme Court Pratt, chair of the committee, gress by taking the judgeship. of Appeals shall hold office for messages with the Yavapai- Justice, designated by the Su- read off the proposed motion at The News obtained the article three (3) years. The remaining Apache attorney general. preme Court, shall preside at the end of an hourlong meeting about her swearing-in after two (2) Appellate Judges shall Lemon said she had some the trial. Concurrence of five- on Feb. 25. The three-member Edwards sent a copy to the hold office for two (2) years …” questions surrounding the re- sixths (5/6) of the members of committee discussed the recent Osage News’ Editorial Board Congressional Attorney percussions if Edwards were to the Osage Nation Congress events surrounding Edwards on Jan. 24. Loyed “Trey” Gill told the be removed. is required for a judgment of Yavapai-Apache appointment. Under Article VI of the committee they could gath- “I’m concerned because … removal. The judgment shall The other two members of the Osage constitution, under er their findings and make a if she took her oath of office in not extend further than to re- recommendation to the Con- August of 2019, we went di- moval from office and disqual- gress at any time, whether it’s rectly into the Tzi-Zho session ification to hold and enjoy any for removal or for censure, a in 2019. What does that do to office of honor, trust or prof- llegations The four questions are: A lesser charge. the legislation she sponsored?” it in the Osage Nation, but –from Page 1 • If a Member of the “I will tell you that I’ve had Lemon asked. shall not prevent proceedings a conversation with Congress- She also asked about the accepted an office with an- Osage Congress takes in the courts on the same or woman Edwards, and she will compensation she’s received other Indian tribe,” he wrote an oath of office to hold related charges.” definitely question whether since August, whether she in a Feb. 21 email. “But I another tribal office Pratt said the Rules & Eth- ‘holding office’ has been de- should have to pay it back, also know the Constitution which is described under ics committee would meet fined within the Osage Nation, and would the votes she made says the removal of Osage another Indian Nation again on Feb. 27 at 10 a.m. whether there is any law or de- during the Tzi-Zho Session Nation Officers shall orig- constitution during where they may recommend to cision,” Gill said. “My response also come into question. his/her term of Osage the Congressional Affairs com- inate in the Osage Nation to her – has she put that ques- “I would really like to see a Congress – not with the At- Congress office, is that mittee that they hire an attor- Osage Congress Member tion to the attorney general? copy of her contract and I hope torney General. I’m sure oth- So, we may have that answer. she will be forthright in giving ney to represent the Congress er members of Congress are disqualified from being in the trial. a Member of the Osage You may want to hold off on us a copy of that,” Lemon said. aware of this situation and, that recommendation until we To listen to the live broadcast by the same oath in ques- Congress by the terms of of the Rules and Ethics com- the Osage Constitution, hear from the AG, but that’s Congressional rules tion, they are charged with mittee meeting visit https:// Article VI, Section 5? up to you.” for removal making that determination Pratt asked Attorney Gener- According to the Congres- www.osagenation-nsn.gov/ as to any violation.” • If it is determined al Clint Patterson, who was in sional Rules portion on Mo- multimedia/live-media. The News also asked Pat- that the Member of attendance, how long it would tion for Removal of Elected Senior Reporter Benny Po- terson if Edwards had made the Osage Congress take him to answer the four and Appointed Officers, “any lacca contributed to this report. mention of her Yavapai- did in fact, at any questions submitted by Prin- motion for removal … may This article was published on- Apache judgeship with his time, hold another cipal Chief Geoffrey Standing only be made during a regular line on Feb. 25 and is the sec- office prior to taking it? He tribal office under Bear in regard to Edwards. session of Congress or during ond article in a series of three said no, he learned about it another Indian nation Patterson said he was going any special session called for articles that ran online. when he read the article in during his/her term of to wait to see what action the that purpose.” the Osage News. office, does the Osage Edwards responded to Constitution, Article a request for comment via VI, Section 5 make that Rules and Ethics Committee amends email on Feb. 21 and said violator automatically she sent a letter to the ON disqualified or is there a Speaker of the Congress that necessity of a Removal motion to remove Edwards from Congress shows she has asked to be proceeding? Shannon Shaw Duty that I wish we could wait a Congresswoman Brandy removed from the Yavapai- • If it is discovered that Osage News couple of days and get our Lemon made the amended Apache Appeals panel a Member of the Osage rules, paperwork together and motion. and is no longer acting in Congress did in fact The Congressional Rules stuff and now after two days “I move to amend the rec- that capacity. hold another tribal office and Ethics Committee met we’ve decided we need to make ommendation of this commit- “I did no substantive work under another Indian again on Feb. 27, this time to an amendment to that reso- tee to state: the Rules, Ethics and received no compensa- nation at any time, clean up some language. lution to afford due process,” and Engrossment committee tion. I was chosen based on does resignation from On Feb. 25, the committee Stabler said. recommends the Osage Nation my qualifications and unique that other tribal office made a historic motion that According to the Osage Na- Congress initiate the removal ability to strengthen Indian exonerate the violation would begin the removal pro- tion Constitution, Article XII, of Congresswoman Edwards Country judicial systems. If by the offending Member cess for Congresswoman Shan- under Removal, it states: “… from office for disqualification Trial on removal shall then be that service was in conflict of the Osage Congress? non Edwards, who has served under the constitution.” conducted by the Osage Nation Lemon and Stabler voted with the Osage Nation’s con- If so, would that not on the Osage Nation Congress Congress with the accused af- stitution, was is not clear, it allow any violator of the since 2006. However, the way forded due process and an op- was unintentional. That in- Osage Constitution to the motion was worded left out See Amendment portunity to be heard …” —Continued on Page 14 formation should be part of cure their violation by a mandated action – due pro- any article that has a dead- after the fact actions? cess. According to the Osage line today,” she wrote in the • If it is determined that Nation Constitution, a trial email. “My commitment to a Member of the Osage must be afforded to the ac- 2020 Hun-Kah Session public serve [sic] remains, Congress is disqualified cused. The committee’s orig- even as social media misin- under Article VI, inal motion made on Feb. 25 formation and bias makes Section 5 of the Osage called for the Congress to wave begins March 30 people reluctant to lend Constitution, should the rules of procedure for re- moval and move straight to a Osage News views and consideration of their talents in that arena. the Treasurer withhold legislation and other matters. vote on a motion for removal. The Sixth Osage Nation I have legislation slated for salary and other Congressional meeting no- After the Osage News pub- Congress will convene for its the Hun-kah Session which financial compensation tices and agendas for sessions lished an article in its Feb- 2020 Hun-Kah Session start- demonstrates my dedication and benefits from the and committee meetings are ruary 2020 edition about the ing Monday, March 30 at 10 to the Osage People. I hope offending Member of posted online to the Legis- swearing-in of Edwards as a.m. at the ON Capitol Build- that effort receives the re- Congress? lative Branch calendar at: the Yavapai-Apache’s new ing in Pawhuska. porting it deserves.” www.osagenation-nsn.gov/ appellate justice, allegations This is the first of two regu- Edwards has been a mem- Live broadcasts were who-we-are/congress-legisla- began to arise on social media lar 24-day sessions of the year ber of Congress since its for- streamed on the Osage Na- tive-branch/calendar that she disqualified herself to and may be extended an ad- mation in 2006. tion’s website of the Con- Filed legislation up for con- ditional three days if needed. gressional Rules and Ethics serve as a member of the Con- sideration of action is online The 12-member legislative Executive memorandum Committee meetings. To gress by taking the judgeship. at: www.osagenation-nsn. body will consider filed leg- Principal Chief Geoffrey view visit https://www. The News obtained the article gov/who-we-are/legisla- islative bills, resolutions and Standing Bear submitted osagenation-nsn.gov/multi- about her swearing-in after tive-branch/legislation other matters brought to the four questions to the AG on media/live-media. Edwards sent a copy to the During the session and Legislative Branch for review Feb. 21 requesting an opin- Editor’s Note: This ar- Osage News’ Editorial Board committee meetings held in and consideration for action. ion on a “Congress Member ticle was published on- on Jan. 24. the Congressional chambers The members will also meet Disqualification for Hold- line Feb. 21 as the story Second Speaker Pau- building, those public meet- in Congressional commit- ing Other Tribal Office Un- was unfolding. This is the la Stabler said she wished ings (except executive ses- tee meetings, which will be der Another Indian Nation first in a series of three ar- the committee had taken sions) will be live streamed scheduled as needed through- During his/her Term of Of- ticles that ran online at more time before making the at: www.osagenation-nsn. out the session for initial re- fice and Related Issues.” www.osagenews.org Feb. 25 motion. gov/multimedia/live-media. “On Tuesday, I mentioned 6 March 2020 Osage News • osagenews.org

Maria Tallchief Moscelyn Larkin OU School of Dance to host Dance Festival honoring five Native American ballerinas from Oklahoma The term “Five Moons” is en in the rotunda of the Okla- the OU School of Dance, with & Inclusion and Five Moons School of Dance derived from a created homa State Capitol entitled her husband Dance Festival planning com- by Cherokee composer Lou- Flight of Spirit and a bronze in 1960. She also founded the mittee member, said, “A dance The University of Oklaho- is Ballard Sr. called The Four sculpture installation in Tulsa Oklahoma City Civic Ballet, festival honoring and celebrat- ma School of Dance will host a Moons that was performed at by Oklahoma artist Gary Hen- now known as Oklahoma City ing the legacy of Five Moons dance festival honoring five re- the Second Oklahoma Indi- son entitled The Five Moons Ballet, in 1963. Rosella High- Ballerinas is long overdue. nowned Native American bal- an Ballerina Festival in 1967. that portrays the ballerinas. tower, of Choctaw descent, American Indian people are lerinas from Oklahoma May The Oklahoma Indian Balleri- Four of the Five Moons have founded the Center for Classi- a dancing people and always 30-31, 2020 at Holmberg Hall na Festivals were held in 1957 been inducted into the Oklaho- cal Dance, in Cannes, France, have been. Dance is an im- in the Donald W. Reynolds and 1967 to celebrate milestone ma Hall of Fame. in 1962. In 1981, she became portant part of our identity. It Performing Arts Center. The anniversaries of Oklahoma’s The Five Moons Dance Fes- the first American director of is important to recognize and festival will celebrate Maria statehood. The Four Moons, tival aims to inspire interest the Paris Opera Ballet. encourage talent aspiring to Tallchief, Marjorie Tallchief, which was performed by four of in the OU, Norman/OKC, and This year’s festival will have follow in the footsteps of the Rosella Hightower, Moscelyne the ballerinas, excluding Maria greater Oklahoma communi- a special focus on honoring the Five Moons and become ballet Larkin and Yvonne Chouteau, Tallchief who had retired from ty in learning more about the Tallchief sisters, Maria and dancers and choreographers in each of whom created distin- performing, included solos hon- Five Moons’ remarkable ac- Marjorie. , who guished careers in the dance a field where American Indi- oring the unique heritage of complishments and contribu- was a member of the Osage ans are an underrepresented world during the 20th century each dancer. tions to the dance world. The nation, is widely considered to and whose legacies have great- population.” The Five Moons have also festival will include a series of be America’s first major prima About the OU School of ly contributed to dance in the been honored with a mural by panel discussions and educa- ballerina. state of Oklahoma. Dance: Originally founded in painter Mike Lars- tional events on May 30th, cul- created several roles for her 1963 by former Ballet Russe de minating in a ticketed dance during her time as a principal Monte Carlo principal danc- dancer at New York City Bal- performance at Holmberg ers Yvonne Chouteau and Mi- Hall on May 31st. Performers let. Marjorie Tallchief was the guel Terekhov, the OU School 2020 Osage Nation will include students of the first Native American dancer of Dance is home to one of the OU School of Dance, profes- to become a première danseuse leading programs in the na- Sovereignty Day Celebration sional dancers from Oklaho- étoile at the renowned Paris tion for training in ballet and ma City Ballet, Opera Ballet. The Tallchief Osage Nation Release modern techniques. Under- and , sisters founded the graduate and graduate dance The Osage Nation will host the annual Sovereignty Day and dancers from the Native City Ballet together in 1980. majors, along with general Celebration at the Skyline Event Center located at the Osage American community. Marjorie is the last surviv- Casino & Hotel in Tulsa, Oklahoma. This event is celebrated education students, total ap- Each of the Five Moons had ing member of the Five Moons. to recognize the ratification (March 11, 2006) of the Consti- proximately 1000 enrollees in a notable performing career, She served as the director of tution. “All Osage constituents are invited to celebrate and dance classes per semester, all dancing with the Ballet dance at the Harid Conserva- enjoy the day”, stated the Celebration Committee. which are held in the School’s The 2020 Head Staff: Russe de Monte Carlo as well tory in Boca Raton, Florida, as other renowned companies from 1989 to 1993. She was state-of-the-art facilities in the • Head Singer – Robert Collins in the U.S. and abroad. In ad- presented with a distinguished Donald W. Reynolds Perform- • Head Man – Noah Shadlow dition to being trailblazers in service award from the Uni- ing Arts Center. The School of Dance boasts two active per- • Head Lady – Gianna “Gigi” Sieke the world of professional bal- versity of Oklahoma in 1992. let, the Five Moons contribut- Marjorie is now retired and re- forming companies, Oklahoma • Head Cook – Robin West ed to the future of the art form sides in Boca Raton. Festival Ballet and Contempo- • MC – Bruce Cass by teaching the next genera- The festival planning com- rary Dance Oklahoma, both of • AD – Tim Lookout tion of dancers and founding mittee believes an integral which perform works from the • AD – O.J. Littlecook or leading several major ballet component of honoring the national repertoire as well as schools and companies, many Five Moons’ legacy is to provide a variety of original works. In • Host Gourd – Osage Gourd Dancers of which are still active today. a platform for female-iden- July 2017, the School of Dance • Color Guard – Post 198 , a mem- tifying choreographers from welcomed Michael Bearden as This year’s celebration includes an afternoon Gourd ber of the Shawnee-Peoria historically underrepresented the school’s third director in Dance at 2:00 p.m. Supper break is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. tribe, co-founded the Tulsa populations to present their the program’s 54 year history. followed by Grand Entry at 7:00 p.m. The Adult categories Ballet with her husband Ro- work, thereby contributing to The School of Dance is part of include: Straight, Fancy Feather, Cloth, and Buckskin. man Jasinski in 1956. Yvonne the future of female leadership the Weitzenhoffer Family Col- Teen and Junior categories include Straight and Cloth. All lege of Fine Arts under Dean contestants must participate in the Grand Entry. Vendors Chouteau, of Shawnee and in dance. will be limited to Osage vendors only. Cherokee heritage, established Warren Queton, Tribal Li- Mary Margaret Holt. For addi- For Osage vendor information, please call (918) 287-9734. the University of Oklahoma’s aison at the University of tional information, visit dance. Department of Dance, now Oklahoma Office of Diversity ou.edu.

two-part determination pro- Mediation visions for land in trust acqui- –from Page 1 sitions outside of traditional reservation boundaries. Judge orders mediation for five Within the span of a week, President Terri Parton with the Nation, Delaware the Wichita and Affiliated Nation, the Wichita and Af- Tribes said her tribe had to tribes and Oklahoma Governor filiated Tribes, the Seminole get involved not only to defend Nation of Oklahoma, the Co- Lenzy Krehbiel-Burton Additionally, under the other tribes that want to be its compact rights, but those manche Nation, the Otoe-Mis- Osage News terms of Judge DeGuisti’s part of the litigation. souria Tribe of Indians, Ponca of other tribes that could not order, neither Gov. Stitt nor The governor’s office filed a act quickly enough to join the Tribe, the United Keetoowah OKLAHOMA CITY — A any of the involved tribes countersuit on Jan. 22, seek- lawsuit. The Anadarko-based Band of Cherokee Indians mediator may determine the are allowed to publicly dis- ing a declaratory judgment tribe has about 3,300 citizens and the Kialegee Tribal Town fate of Oklahoma’s tribal cuss the mediation process that the compact expired on and operates two casinos in all joined the lawsuit initially gaming compacts. without going through the New Year’s Eve and that all Caddo County. filed by the Cherokee, Chick- After a pre-trial hearing court first. Class III gaming is illegal un- In their filing, attorneys for asaw and Choctaw nations on on Feb. 10, Judge Timothy The Cherokee, Choctaw til a new compact is in place. the Wichitas maintain that and Chickasaw nations filed Gov. Stitt’s rebuttal also New Year’s Eve over whether DeGuisti ordered Gov. Kev- the state already triggered the a lawsuit against Gov. Stitt asks that revenue generated the state’s gaming compact in Stitt and five Oklahoma automatic renewal clauses a on New Year’s Eve in the from those games after Jan. has expired. tribes to pursue mediation in Of the 14 tribes in the law- dozen times, including the con- Western District of Oklaho- 1 be put into a trust. Class dueling lawsuits over the sta- suit, 11 have at least one casi- tinued existence of the Okla- ma, asking for a declaratory III table games, including tus of the model state-tribal no with Class III gaming. The homa Lottery Commission’s judgment that the state-trib- blackjack, poker, craps and gaming compact. Ponca Tribe, headquartered mobile application and Gov. al model gaming compact au- roulette, are not mentioned in White Eagle, has a casino Stitt’s decision to sign compact Under the terms of Judge tomatically renewed on New in the injunction request. under construction along I-35 extensions with the Kialegee DeGuisti’s order, the tribes Year’s Day. Seeking higher exclusivity near Perry. Tribal Town and United Kee- and Gov. Stitt are each to Motions to intervene from fees from the 30-plus gaming Neither the Kialegee Trib- toowah Band. Under the terms submit names of three po- the Citizen Potawatomi Na- tribes across Oklahoma, Gov. al Town nor the United Kee- of the model state-tribal gam- tential mediators by Feb. 14. tion and Muscogee (Creek) Stitt has publicly maintained toowah Band of Cherokee ing compact, if electronic gam- The court will select a me- Nation were approved on that the compacts expired Indians, the two tribes who ing is still allowed in any form diator with the understand- Feb. 6. As part of Judge De- on New Year’s Eve and that signed a compact extension of- within Oklahoma, the compact ing that most, if not all of Guisti’s Feb. 10 order, Feb. any Class III electronic gam- fered by Gov. Stitt in late 2019, automatically renews. the talks to be completed by 14 is the deadline for inter- ing conducted after that date currently operate a casino. “The extension agreement March 31. vention motions from any is illegal. The former attempted twice makes clear that all other pro- to open a casino in Broken visions of the compact shall thus nullifying any assertion tribe to get involved, despite tion is also important here Arrow despite objections from remain in force and full effect, against compact renewal for all not having any casinos at the because the case is about to the National Indian Gaming which includes a signatory Commission and the Muscogee tribe’s right to conduct elec- compacting tribes.” moment. enter mediation. In mediation (Creek) Nation. tronic gaming,” attorney Wil- Under the terms of Judge “The (United Keetoowah) proceedings, confidentiality The latter previously had liam Norman wrote. “In other DeGuisti’s order, neither Gov. Band has a significant inter- will prevent the Band from as- a casino in Tahlequah that words, Governor Stitt, person- Stitt nor any of the involved est in this case,” Attorney certaining how its rights are has been closed since Au- ally and purporting to act on tribes are allowed to publicly General Klint Cowan wrote. being defended. The non-pub- gust 2013, but has expressed behalf of the state, authorized discuss the mediation process “The outcome of this litigation lic nature of the upcoming interest in opening a new the operation of electronic gam- without going through the … could directly impact the mediation therefore substan- facility in Enid under the In- ing in Oklahoma in any form court first. That gag order spe- sovereign rights of the band tially heightens the need for the dian Gaming Regulatory Act’s on and after January 1, 2020, cifically prompted at least one under federal law. Interven- Band’s participation.” Osage News • osagenews.org March 2020 7 Osage Minerals Council begins pre-application process for a TERA Lenzy Krehbiel-Burton pre-application process, the joint letter Osage News asks for a formal consultation session and answers to questions that came up SKIATOOK, Okla. — The Osage Na- repeatedly during the TERA comment tion is another baby step closer toward period, including just how much money pursuing a tribal energy rights agree- will be made available for tribes look- ment with the federal government. ing to take on duties currently handled Addressing about 30 members of by the federal government. the Osage Shareholders Association “We don’t want to get the right to at their quarterly meeting, Principal do something, but no money to do it Chief Geoffrey Standing Bear con- with,” Standing Bear said. “Otherwise, firmed on Feb. 16 that he and Osage we will be tapping our gaming revenue Minerals Council Chairman Everett even more to cover those costs.” Waller have co-signed a letter to the A separate, albeit related letter, 2020 ELECTION YEAR Department of Interior to launch the was also sent to the Department of TERA pre-application process. The two Interior’s solicitor’s office requesting branches, along with members of the clarification about what functions can IMPORTANT DATES Osage Nation Congress, met in a joint be delegated to tribes under the new session in early February to discuss TERA rules. That response is expected the pre-application process and each in mid-March. ELECTION DATES branch’s role in the matter. Several Osage Minerals Council “We can streamline this and get this members in attendance reiterated to place moving, but it will take a while,” OSA members that the pre-application • APRIL 17 Deadline to submit Absentee Standing Bear said. “A lot of people process is a step forward and the an- have already left and taken a lot of in- swers from the Department of Interior Ballot Request form. stitutional knowledge with them. We will help shape their actions moving have to find a way to remarket this forward, including whether to look at Request must be received by the place to get people to come back and setting up its own oil and gas produc- produce with us.” tion company. Released in December, the new “It’s important to me that we take close of business at 4:30 p.m. TERA regulations lay out parameters the money from our minerals estate for tribes to pursue self-governance and look at long term energy process- • APRIL 27 Absentee Ballot Mailing Begins agreements for some or all of the ser- es to benefit not just our shareholders, vices associated with energy develop- but the Osage Nation as a whole,” Mar- • MAY 29 Early Voting Day 1 ment, including oil and gas drilling. go Gray said. “We’re here because this Along with indicating interest in the goal is the same.” • MAY 30 Early Voting Day 2 • JUNE 1 Election Day Election Day workers sought for hiring Benny Polacca act and deal effectively with voters, Osage News co-workers and electioneers; Ability to comprehend and follow instructions ABSENTEE INFORMATION As the 2020 Osage election season given by the Election Supervisor and continues, the Osage Nation Election other Election Board and office team • Check your calendars to see if you will be able to vote Office is seeking individuals interest- members; Occasional lifting and carry- ed in working Election Day activities ing objects such as election equipment in person or need to submit an Absentee Ballot during the June 1 general election in and supply boxes; And ability to rec- Request form. Pawhuska. ognize election issues and to promptly The June 1 Election Day polling site report any issues to the Election Su- • Permanent Absentee Voters do NOT have to submit a will be open to Osage voters from 8 a.m. pervisor or Assistant Election Supervi- to 8 p.m. Afterward, the ON Election sor as necessary. new request form. Board and office staff will generate the Election workers will receive com- voting results, which will be announced pensation for their services and the • Please call the Election Office to verify if you are a in front of the Chambers Building on Election Office will provide meals and Permanent Absentee Voter. the ON government campus as done refreshments throughout the day for historically in past elections. the workers and office staff. • Make sure your Mailing Address and Absentee Ballot According to the Election Day worker In addition to workers, the Osage application, work duties include: Setting election code also allows candidates to Mailing Address are current with our office. up and breaking down election equip- designate one poll watcher at the polling ment at the polling site; Maintaining place who must follow the election law • Please submit a new form if you did not mark the election equipment security through- regarding the post. The Osage election Permanent Absentee Voter option on the form that out the day; Thoroughly reviewing and code regarding poll watchers states that completing all election forms; Checking candidates seeking executive or legis- you submitted in previous election years. in voters through use of identification lative office “may submit the name of and poll lists; Assisting voters during one person as their designated watcher • Make sure you submit a clear copy of your government the voter process by explaining equip- at each polling place. No candidate for ment usage; Closing the polling site at any elected office of the Osage Nation issued photo ID. EXAMPLES: Driver’s License, the end of voting period; And attending shall be a watcher. Watchers are pro- Passport, Military ID, Tribal Photo ID, etc. mandatory training. hibited from using all electronic devic- The application deadline for those es, conversing with voters and election interested in serving as Election Day officials, and divulging any information workers is March 31. as to the count prior to the (election re- “If you are interested in working sults) announcement by the Board. A DO YOU KNOW ABOUT (June 1), please submit the (applica- watcher shall not return to the polling THE PRIVACY PROGRAM? tion) form provided by the deadline to place after leaving. Any disruption by the Osage Nation Election Office locat- watchers will be cause for their remov- You can make the choice to receive mailings from candi- ed at 608 Kihekah or scan and email it al from the polling place. Poll watchers dates. You will still be on the list of eligible voters AND still to [email protected],” are to remain only in designated areas. the announcement reads. Watchers shall not receive compensa- receive mailings from the Osage Nation departments. Sign On May 27, the Election Office will tion for their services.” up now by filling out the form found on our website or con- hold a lunchtime training and more The ON Election Office is listed as workday details will be provided for se- “Osage Elections” on Facebook, Twitter tact our office and we will mail, fax, or e-mail it to you. lected applicants. and Instagram social media platforms. The election worker application also For more information on the elec- notes professional work skills and abil- tions, filing for candidacy, or to regis- ities that will be considered in selecting ter or update addresses for voting, and workers, which include: Basic comput- to request absentee ballots, contact er skills; attention to detail; Must be the Election Office toll-free at (877) willing to work 12-14 hours on Election 560-5286 or visit its current website Day or more, if necessary; Excellent at www.osagenation-nsn.gov/what-we- OSAGE NATION interpersonal skills in order to inter- do/elections ELECTION OFFICE INFORMATION Toll Free: (877) 560-5286 • Phone: (918) 287-5286 • Fax: (918) 287-5292 E-mail: [email protected] Osage LLC has a new chairman; contract Physical Address: 608 Kihekah, Pawhuska, OK Mailing Address: P.O. Box 928 Pawhuska, OK 74056 for Fort Belknap Reservation extends Website: osagenation-nsn.gov/what-we-do/elections Lenzy Krehbiel-Burton a new life and is on track. My tenure Osage News was rough but calm waters are ahead for Osage, LLC,” outgoing Chairwoman SKIATOOK, Okla. — A new year Kay Bills said. “As we all know, there means new digs, new leadership and a were dark times, but we persevered. new subsidiary company for the Osage Congress stayed the course. Now I LLC board of directors. believe I can step back and focus on In its first board meeting in its new some other activities in the contracting office in downtown Skiatook on Feb. world which I had put aside. 19, the Osage LLC board of directors “I have full faith that Mr. Freeman voted Frank Freeman in as its new can now continue the next phase of chairman. Freeman was initially ap- growth. And I’ll be there as vice-chair pointed to the board during the 2018 to cheer him on at every turn.” Tzi-Zho Session. The board’s third member, Rich- “I leave my role as Chairman of the ard Perrier, was unanimously board for Osage LLC today with money elected treasurer. in the bank, no debt and no outstand- In addition to the shuffling of offi- ing contracts and an excellent team in See LLC place. Additionally, the broadband has —Continued on Page 18 8 March 2020 Osage News • osagenews.org

Mark Simms to receive honorary Osages Around the World doctorate from Bacone College Osage News

Former Osage Nation Congress- man and current Gaming Enterprise Board Chairman Mark Simms will receive an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Bacone Col- lege at its commencement ceremony on May 2. Simms, Osage, Cherokee and Creek, has done well for himself in the pest control business, operating a Courtesy Photo/ Bacone College Public Relations successful company for many years. Osage Nation Gaming Board Chairman In addition to his success in business, Mark Simms (right) will receive an Honor- he serves on many boards and com- ary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Ba- missions throughout the state and cone College on May 2. He is shown with Indian Country. Bacone College President Dr. Ferlin Clark. According to a Bacone College Letters is an honorary degree be- press release, Simms served as a stowed on individuals who have dis- member of the President’s Business tinguished themselves in other areas Commission during the administra- other than science, government, lit- tion of George W. Bush from 2001 erature or religion. Universities be- to 2009. In 2003, he was selected stow honorary degrees on individuals as Businessman of the Year from who have made great contributions Oklahoma by the Business Advisory to society in general. Council. He has also served on the “His lifetime contributions to Oklahoma Pest Control Association, health, education, and culture, his Bartlesville Chamber of Commerce, military service, and his community National Federation of Independent leadership are some of the reasons Businesses, American Indian Cham- we want to honor Mr. Simms,” said ber of Commerce and the Pawhuska Courtesy Photo Chamber of Commerce. See Simms An honorary Doctorate of Humane —Continued on Page 18 Dante Biss-Grayson reads the January 2020 edition of the Osage News while on vacation in Bali, Indonesia. Osage News • osagenews.org March 2020 9 Native actors encourage next generation to tell their stories Erin Tapahe “The Magnificent Seven.” He meeting casting directors and Special to Osage News has seen many children look up even moving to New York or to his character and even dress because those PARK CITY, Utah – The in- up like him for Halloween. places are where film produc- augural Indigenous Filmmak- “You see representation on a tions happen. ers Lounge partnered with screen and as a kid that does “We need more actors. We the annual Sundance Film so much for you,” he said. “It need more Native actors out Festival for a two-day event fills up their imagination.” there pursuing it, studying in that included five panels ad- According to Sensmeier, acting and really working on dressing topics related to the many Native roles in film are the craft,” Sensmeier said. film industry, dance, musical one or two-dimensional char- Sensmeier talked with Billy entertainment and activities acters, whereas the cowboy Mills, Native American Olym- to promote networking. characters have complex roles pian, about how many Native Amy Redford, daughter filled with backstory and filler American communities’ face of actor Robert Redford, is a scenes. Natives are villainized poverty and the impact it has board member of the Sundance from the beginning and have on dreaming big. He said, “We don’t know how to dream and Institute and expressed her All Photos courtesy Eugene Tapahe/Tapahe Photography minimal screen time. passion for supporting Native “As an audience, we don’t we’re afraid to dream.” Left to Right, Martin Sensmeier (Actor/Magnificent Seven/Yellowstone), American filmmakers. She en- see or get the opportunity to Valderrama supports and Julia Jones (Actor/Goliath/Wind River), Zahn McClarnon (Actor/West- courages the public to support like those Native characters,” encourages people of color to world/Doctor Sleep), Tracy Brennan (talent agent, CAA), Shauna Perlman act and become involved in sto- Native filmmakers by inviting (talent agent, CAA) and Moderator Heather Rae (Director/Producer) dis- he said. friends and family members to Many Native American ac- rytelling because he sees tal- cuss the new Native actors narrative and how it has changed at the Inau- ent, passion, and the potential watch Native films and show gural Indigenous Filmmakers Lounge at this year’s Sundance Film Festi- tors play Native roles, but it to teach future generations. support to continue making val held January 24 and 25, 2020 in Park City, Utah. is more challenging for Na- more films. tive actors to play non-Native “Within our movies, within our content, our children’s chil- “I’ve seen the program here roles. According to Redford, the importance for him, as a of the story and role she plays, at the Sundance Institute grow Native American movie stars Latino actor, to sit and listen she said. and grow over the years,” she should not only play in indige- to the panelists because this “At the end of the day, the said. “It’s important for Native nous films but need to be seen event helped him learn more stories I am telling are the movies to be marketed in the all over Hollywood. ways to help. He spoke to the most important thing and that correct way.” Zahn McClarnon is a Na- audience about people of color guides my career more than N. Bird Runningwater is the tive American actor and has becoming allies. creative decisions,” she said. director of the Sundance Insti- worked on many films such “We want to be here by you,” Valderrama believes it is tute’s Indigenous Program and as “,” “,” “The he said. “You’re not alone in important to teach and edu- a member of the Cheyenne and Son” and many more. McClar- this fight and that all of us, cate one another because then Mescalero Apache nations. non was offered the acting job people of color, should fight going into the next generation Runningwater helped orga- for “Doctor Sleep” and he said, and finally wave the same flag Indigenous people will share “The first thing I said was, nize the Indigenous Filmmak- together as we get the respect each other’s truths and further ‘This guy is not Native,’ and ers Lounge and launched new that we deserve.” the efforts of representation. videos before every Sundance “Not paraphrase but tell the they were completely open to film screening to pay respect The Power of Storytelling truth about who we are, and it the fact that an actor of Native and acknowledgment to the Martin Sensmeier is a Na- is vital that we respect where American heritage could play Ute tribe. tive American actor and has we come from,” he said. a non-Native role.” “This has been one of my had roles in “The Magnifi- Valderrama wants people “I’m an actor who happens dreams for our indigenous to be of Native American de- cent Seven,” “Yellowstone,” of color to share the full sto- Steven Paul Judd (Artist-in-Res- community to have a gather- and “Wind River.” He spoke ry and it requires learning scent; the actor thing comes ing space to be able to kind first,” he said. idence/Kiowa-Choctaw) created at the Indigenous Filmmak- from elders. He said, “Reach this dice mosaic portrait of He Dog of come together, to celebrate ers Lounge on a panel called, out to your older communi- (Sunka Bloka), Oglala Lakota. It each other and our creativity,” Passion for Acting “The New Native: Native Ac- ties and be vulnerable enough took five days and 16,402 dice to he said. tors and the Work of Narrative to say you don’t know how to Acting is a challenging but finish! He revealed the completed The Indigenous Filmmakers Change.” Also, on the panel do something.” rewarding career path. Mc- mosaic at the Inaugural Indige- Lounge was a free event and with him were Native Amer- According to Sensmeier, Clarnon moved to Los Angeles nous Filmmakers Lounge at this welcomed all people to attend. ican actors Zahn McClarnon the key to acting is learning. in 1991 to focus on acting. He year’s Sundance Film Festival on According to the event page and Julia Jones. He enters every role with the lived in his car for months and January 25, 2020 in Park City, Utah. description, “The Lounge will “I see the impact storytell- mentality of, “Come learning, each day worked toward his feature panel discussions, el- ing has on people and it’s so not learned.” Sensmeier wants goal of acting. His advice is to, evated dialogue, networking important. Stories have the to continue learning and be- “Jump in feet first.” dren should feel not only equal and live performances during power to motivate people to come a better actor. “When you’re first starting but special,” said Valderrama. the opening weekend of the push through hard times in “As a storyteller, as a direc- out, it’s a really scary thing “Our children’s children will Festival with a focus on nar- life,” Sensmeier said. tor or producer, there’s always and it takes courage to get into wake up to a world where they rative change and creating op- Jones recently starred in an room to grow in storytelling,” class,” Sensmeier said. will appreciate our ancestry portunities for Native peoples episode of Disney Plus’s “Man- he said. Sensmeier and McClarnon and not let any national con- to build sustainable careers in dalorian.” She also had a sup- both advise beginning actors spiracy suppress the cries and the industry.” porting role in “Wind River” Overcoming Native to study and take classes. tears from our grandparents, in Actor Wilmer Valderra- and is currently working on Stereotypes “It’s frightening, the idea order for us to be here today.” ma who has starred in “That a show for Amazon. She typi- Sensmeier selects his acting that you’re going to be cri- The most important advice ‘70s Show,” “Handy Manny,” cally starts her day with a list roles based on the character’s tiqued and go in front of people Jones has for aspiring actors “NCIS” and other roles, at- of changes to discuss with the complexity. He wants to play to perform; it’s scary,” Sens- is, “You have to believe in tended the Indigenous Film- director because she feels re- three-dimensional characters. meier said. yourself and have to work re- makers Lounge and expressed sponsible for the authenticity He played Red Harvest in McClarnon also suggests ally hard.”

Wilmer Valderrama (Actor/That ‘70s Show/Dusk till Dawn) discussed the new narrative of rom left to right, Bird Runningwater (Director of Sundance Institute’s Indigenous Program) Indigenous people in film at the Inaugural Indigenous Filmmakers Lounge at this year’s Sun- and Amy Redford (Sundance Film Festival Co-Chair/Director), welcome attendees to the In- dance Film Festival on January 25, 2020 in Park City, Utah. augural Indigenous Filmmakers Lounge at this year’s Sundance Film Festival held January 24 and 25, 2020 in Park City, Utah. Culture and Drugs Don’t Mix!

All photos by SHANNON SHAW DUTY/Osage News ABOVE: Dr. Ron Shaw of the WahZhaZhe Health Center explained the harmful effects of opioids, which the addiction of opioids has plagued the Osage reservation and surrounding communities the past several years. The series of events are geared at educating youth away from using opioids and instead, following a more traditional Native American way of life. The series of cultural events is a coordinated effort from the Association Students participate at the first event of a three-part series for Culture and Drugs Don’t Mix! Students learned of American Indian Physicians, the WHC, SAMHSA, Osage Nation PRT, how to bead lanyards from Dana Bear and Mary Hammer, they received an Osage language lesson from Celena TASC, Osage Nation Language and Cultural Departments. Noear, they enjoyed dinner and each received an Amazon gift card for attending. 10 March 2020 Osage News • osagenews.org

All photos by CODY HAMMER/Osage News Cash Perrier signs letter of intent to play college football at Southwestern College on Feb.10 All photos by CODY HAMMER/Osage News in Barnsdall. Hominy High School senior Amos Satepauhoodle signs letter of intent to play football at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College (NEO) on Feb. 6 at Hominy High School.

RIGHT: Amos Satepauhoodle, Osage/Kiowa, signs a letter LEFT: Cash Perrier with his mother of intent with family, coaches Lauren Malone after the signing and school staff present on event in Barnsdall, Feb. 10. Feb. 6 at Hominy High School. BELOW: Cash Perrier signs letter of BELOW: Amos Satepauhoodle intent to play college football at is congratulated by Hominy Southwestern College on Feb. 10 High School officials after he in Barnsdall. signed his letter of intent to play football at NEO on Feb. 6.

Grayhorse rising

All photos by SHANNON SHAW DUTY Osage News

Photos show the construction progress made on the Grayhorse District’s new community building, scheduled to be finished before the June Inlonshka dances. Sports March 2020 11 Pawhuska Hall of Fame inductees recount when Pawhuska was a basketball powerhouse Shannon Shaw Duty high school he earned a bach- of Champions twice, finishing Osage News elor’s degree from Oklahoma as runner-up in 1973. He was City University in Cell Biology named to the Verdigris Valley Walking into the Pawhuska with a focus in Molecular Cell All-Conference team in 1973. Elementary cafeteria on Feb. Biology and Chemistry. His ca- “First of all, I’m a big believ- 7, one was met with a sea of or- reer has taken him all over the er that the people around you ange and black. A table full of world with a current position make you who you are; and State Championship trophies at Montrose Medical Center the tradition and those kinds and photos of Rodney “Steve” in Montrose, Colorado. Being of beliefs, they steer you in Burris, Lynn Star McGuire a laboratory specialist for 17 the right direction and that’s Holloway and James Miles years in chemistry, microbiol- what this is all about here in were on display. ogy, histology and hematolo- Pawhuska,” he said. Established in 2006, the gy, he and his colleagues are Burris began playing bas- Pawhuska Basketball Hall of implementing a completely ketball while attending the Fame pays tribute to former new computer platform called Immaculate Conception Cath- Huskies that demonstrated EPIC, which will integrate the olic School in Pawhuska before honor and brought achieve- information flow between phy- moving on to Pawhuska High ment to the school. Pawhus- sicians, nurses, directors and School. He excelled in basket- ka’s school history includes personnel of a hospital. ball from an early age and only basketball state champion- Receiving the recognition improved and came into his ships in 1961, 1970, 1971, and All photos by CODY HAMMER/Osage News for his high school basketball leadership role under Coach 1973. They were also state A table full of State Championship trophies and photos of the inductees talents and seeing his home- Shuck. “I worked my butt off runners-up in 1960 and 1962. was displayed on Feb. 7 at the Pawhuska Basketball Hall of Fame honors town friends overtook him. to be the best leader I could,” Burris (Osage), and Miles were banquet in the Pawhuska elementary cafeteria. “I will say this, we were a he said. part of the 1971 and 1973 state very tight-knit group. Through He remembers playing most championship teams. Mc- 18 points per game. She was her ankle and was sidelined sixth grade, and due to integra- of their games in Tulsa and Guire Holloway (Osage), was selected by Coach Max Shuck from playing basketball, but tion, so I grew up with these Oklahoma City against bigger a dominant post player that to practice and play with the that didn’t stop her father guys,” he said, becoming emo- teams. He told stories about continued her basketball ca- varsity. from fashioning a stirrup that tional. “I didn’t know what to their camaraderie, their com- reer with a full scholarship to McGuire Holloway averaged could fit her cast so she could expect when I came here but I petitiveness and their drive to Claremore College. 23 points per game in high practice racing her horse every didn’t expect to see everybody.” win. He said there were away day after school. She said she He said he never stopped games they traveled to where loved basketball and it was a loving basketball and is still an it was only Huskie fans in the privilege to play. all-around sports enthusiast. gym, that’s how supportive “My basketball career was an He no longer plays but remem- the community was of their adventure, a great adventure. bers the championship team he team. The community would And, getting to play in front was on in Pawhuska. He said also book their hotel rooms in of all of you, my hometown … while attending OCU, he was Oklahoma City a year in ad- I just wanted to win. That’s all recognized as being a player vance because they knew the I wanted to do. But playing in from the Pawhuska Huskies team would be playing in the front of you all was very special state championship team. state championships. to me,” she said. “There were “Work hard. That’s what we “It was a tradition, you had times and experiences that did,” he said to the students to live up to that tradition,” forced me to grow up in ways seated in the audience. “Teams he said. I never dreamed of. The game in our own class didn’t want to After he graduated from teaches you about life, commit- play us, so we had to play big high school he attended and ment, perseverance, and co-ex- schools. We kicked their butts. earned his bachelor’s degree isting with others.” We didn’t have anyone that from the University of Okla- The second inductee was stood out, but we played as a homa. He competed in Indian Former Coach Max Shuck greets former player and honoree James Miles James Miles. Miles graduated team … it didn’t matter, we League basketball, playing at the Feb. 7 Pawhuska Basketball Hall of Fame honors banquet. from Pawhuska High School in were brothers.” with the Osage Warriors and 1974 and was a starter on the Rodney “Steve” Burris was qualified for the national tour- the last inductee. He attend- nament several times. Steve “The Pawhuska Hall of school, which got her noticed 1973 Pawhuska State Champi- ed Pawhuska High School has one son, Stephan, who Fame was created as some- by Claremore College. Play- onship team. He was named to 1969-1973 and played for the also played at Pawhuska High thing to endear the greatness ing for the Claremore Lady the Oklahoma State Tourna- State Championship Basket- school and five basketball of Pawhuska basketball. As a Thunderbirds, full-court was ment All-Tournament Team. ball teams of 1971 and 1973, playing grandchildren, one of youngster I watched all these introduced – prior to full-court Miles doesn’t come back coached by Max Shuck. He ap- whom currently plays basket- great players,” said Sean Mc- women played six on six bas- to Pawhuska often and after peared in Tulsa’s Tournament ball for Skiatook High School. Guire before introducing Mc- ketball. The transition to five Guire Holloway. “We had so on five did not slow her down. many great players, it was un- She averaged 22 points per believable.” game in her collegiate career. He said McGuire Holloway “I didn’t get this honor by was an unselfish player, who myself; it was a team effort,” threw the ball to everyone. she said. “I wouldn’t have got- “You heard the phrase ‘A ris- ten very far without them.” ing tide lifts all boats?’ Well, She also spoke with emotion she was the rising tide.” about her father, and the work McGuire Holloway, a native ethic he instilled in her. Mc- Pawhuskan and a 1981 grad- Guire Holloway was also the uate began playing basketball 1980 World Champion Barrel in the 5th grade as an Indian Racer and 1993 & 1995 World Camp School Maiden under Champion Break-Away Roper Coach Jim Javellas. In the 9th “Undisputed Women’s Steer grade she played post on the Roping Champion.” She re- Junior varsity and averaged counted once when she broke Rodney “Steve” Burris thanks those in attendance for his induction into the Pawhuska Basketball Hall of Fame.

Lynn McGuire Holloway thanks those in atten- James Miles is presented a plaque for his induction into dance for her induction into the Pawhuska Bas- the Pawhuska Basketball Hall of Fame on Feb. 7. ketball Hall of Fame honors banquet.

All photos by SHANNON SHAW DUTY/Osage News Students from Pawhuska High School attended a College Readiness Night by Native Pathways, a program provided by the American In- dian College Fund. Students listened to a presentation by Shonday Randall and Clint Sago. The program was made available through a grant won by Title VI Interventionist Luana Strike-Axe Murphy. A total of 18 high school students attended with their families and junior high students from the Native American Student Association. Sean McGuire presents a plaque to honoree Lynn McGuire Rodney “Steve” Burris and son Stephan Burris at A traditional Wahzhazhe meal was provided by Ginger Kent-Hollis Holloway at the Feb. 7 Pawhuska Basketball Hall of Fame the Feb. 7 Pawhuska Basketball Hall of Fame hon- for attendees. honors banquet. ors banquet. 12 March 2020 Osage News • osagenews.org Osage News • osagenews.org March 2020 13 Stitt gives State of the State and fails to acknowledge tribal sovereignty Lenzy Krehbiel-Burton automatic renewal have been met. The Osage News Cherokee, Chickasaw and Choctaw nations filed suit on Dec. 31, prompt- As part of his second State of the ing a countersuit from the state. Mo- State address on Feb. 3, Gov. Kevin tions to intervene are still pending Stitt asked legislators to prepare for from the Muscogee (Creek) and Citizen the possibility that the budgeting pro- Potawatomi nations. cess for public education may be miss- Gov. Stitt has not said explicitly ing a few million dollars in the near what, if anything, he will do with the future. exclusivity fee payments from January Addressing both chambers of the revenue should Judge Timothy De- Guisti in the Western District of Okla- , Gov. Stitt homa deny the state’s pending motion asked the legislature near the end of to create a trust for those funds. his remarks to pass a bill that would al- Multiple tribal leaders have previ- low the state’s remaining cash balance ously indicated their intent to contin- from 2019 and funds from the Revenue ue remitting exclusivity payments by Stabilization Fund to fill in the com- the deadlines laid out in the compact. mon education budget should there be In a written statement issued after the an interruption in Class III exclusivity governor’s remarks, Oklahoma Indian payments. In 2019 alone, gaming ex- Gaming Association chairman Mat- clusivity fees contributed $130 million thew Morgan reiterated those plans. to public education. Courtesy Photo/Osage Nation “The tribes will continue to remit the Although he acknowledged the trib- Gov. Kevin Stitt shakes hands with members of Oklahoma’s House and Senate on Feb. 3. revenue-shares due and owing under al leaders on hand in the gallery, Gov. our renewed compacts. It is unfortu- Stitt did not acknowledge tribal sover- the Legislature – to oversee all indus- accomplish this without putting public nate to see Governor Stitt tie himself eignty in his address – just that of the tries operating in the state,” he said. education in the crosshairs.” and the state budget in knots as he con- state. “I also remain confident the state Seeking higher exclusivity fees from tinues his refusal to acknowledge the “As Governor, I remain supportive of and Oklahoma’s tribes can hammer out the 30-plus gaming tribes across Okla- plain terms of the agreement the state the sovereignty of the state of Oklaho- a compromise that is a win-win for all homa, Gov. Stitt has publicly main- offered tribes 15 years ago. We stand ma and our right – and your duty as four million Oklahomans and we can tained that the compacts expired on with Oklahoma teachers and are proud New Year’s Eve and that any Class III of our contribution to Oklahoma com- electronic gaming conducted after that mon education.” date is illegal. However, it has been In a statement to Osage News, Prin- business as usual at tribal casinos. cipal Chief Geoffrey Standing Bear Along with its author, former state echoed that disappointment. Sen. Cal Hobson, state Speaker Charles “Governor Stitt’s statement shows McCall (R-Atoka) and House Minori- that he is not well informed of the sov- ty Leader Emily Virgin (D-Norman), ereign status of the tribes and either officials from more than 30 gaming insensitive or not knowledgeable of the tribes across Oklahoma have argued difficult history of tribal relations with that the prerequisites for the compact’s the state of Oklahoma,” he said. Jeremy Reece pleads guilty to the death of Rick Holt Lenzy Krehbiel-Burton Osage News

TULSA, Okla. — A Pawhuska res- ident has pleaded guilty in federal court to the September 2015 death of Rick Holt. On Feb. 6, Jeremy Reece entered a guilty plea in the Northern District of Oklahoma. According to court docu- ments, Reece admitted to Chief District Judge John Dowdell that he took Holt from his house, shot him three times on restricted Osage land, dug a shallow grave for the body and set Holt’s corpse on fire. Pending judicial approval, Reece will receive a 45-year prison sentence in ex- change for dropping the pending state Jeremy Reece murder, kidnapping and conspiracy in the Northern District of Oklaho- to commit murder charges in the case ma,” U.S. Attorney Trent Shores said. that have been pending since 2015. “Heinous acts such as those commit- See Reece ted by Reece will not go unpunished —Continued on Page 18 14 March 2020 Osage News • osagenews.org Make your mark Ruby Hansen Murray Osage News Culture Columnist

I’m studying Osage orthography. Last week in Wakonze Celena No- ear’s orthography class we had a drill. Whenever I’m in Oklahoma, I take Osage language classes. I’ve gone to Hominy to hear Master Teacher Mog- ri Lookout, visited Donna Barrone in Fairfax, but most of the classes I’ve taken have been at the Language De- partment in Pawhuska. I’ve been de- lighted to be able to join an on-going class; while I’ve learned some things, Attendee “Facebook Lives” the TPS Community meeting on Indian Education in Tulsa, Jan.30. I hadn’t learned the orthography. state-mandated raises for certified During previous lessons, I made teachers, including all seven resource notes phonetically next to the or- Reorganization –from Page 3 advisers. Although the state required thography, following Charles Pratt’s Ruby Hansen Murray the raises, it did not include addition- early instruction to write words nity meeting and found out about the al financial resources to cover certified as you hear them, but it wasn’t to classes. Wakonze Celena Noear proposed changes from the resource ad- teachers and administrators whose sal- working. I was lost, the beautiful is streaming beginning classes on visers, much to their chagrin. aries are paid from federal funds. symbols remained cryptic, while Tuesdays at noon (Central Standard “This is all dealing with us,” Booker District officials also reiterated that everyone else moved forward. Last Time) and promoting them on social T. Washington High School junior Par- a reorganization is happening no mat- time I was in class, Wakonze John media. “We’re brushing up on verbs,” rish Pipestem said. “Why were we not ter what, although the specific struc- Shaw said, “you’ll be ok when you get she wrote. consulted too? We don’t want to just sit ture could change. A representative for the orthography.” When Noear advertised a basic on the sidelines.” the district declined to say on Jan. 31 I live in the Pacific Northwest. orthography class that would be streamed, I saw my chance. So far, District officials repeated several whether additional community meet- The Language Department has had times at the listening session that the ings are planned to gather feedback the technology, the expertise and re- we’ve dedicated ourselves to the vow- els, writing vocabulary words, which reorganization is due to a drop in Na- on additional revisions or if the initial quests from distance learners to offer tive student enrollment based on the timetable is still in play. Originally, the classes for years. I remember Veroni- also exposes us to the consonants. The first week I attended class, Con- 506 forms returned by parents that are reorganization was going to go to the ca Pipestem’s video classes offered in used to determine federal and tribal Board of Education in mid-February. 2014, which I enjoyed, and Cameron gresswoman Alice Goodfox was there, as was Dana Bear and John Hor- per-pupil funding. District enrollment “Changing the office and doing the Pratt’s classes via a web platform, overall has dropped by about 5,000 stu- reorganization has to happen,” Gist still located on the Language Depart- seChief, which I took as positive peer pressure. I’ve done homework, filling dents since the 2004-2005 school year. said. “We just do not have the money to ment’s page. I dug up my password, Further limiting the budget are the maintain it the way it is now.” which still works, and forwarded a lined notebook pages with vowels, new request to be assigned to a class, like U, which I picture as a horseshoe but I’ve found it hard to maintain to remind me it’s “oo” as in boot. commitment studying alone. There Last week, Wakonze Celena gave have been social media pages and us a drill, which she called a break. posts relating to Osage language for She read words for us to write. years. The Osage Nation’s language “Sound them out,” she said, which app makes it easy to check your pro- reminded me of elementary school. nunciation and spelling. Lately, tech- Each of the teachers has created a nology has opened up as more people no fault feeling in class that makes make videos and connect via Zoom or learning possible, even fun, which FaceTime or Skype. There’s also syn- feels refreshingly different from my ergy with Daposka Ahnkodapi staff school days. So, last Thursday, we required to attend classes and given proceeded to write the Osage words incentives to do so. for morning, noon and day, and oth- er words like meat gravy, star and Each of the previous initiatives The TPS Community Meeting drew a crowd of concerned parents and community members Straighten Up! Each of these words had good intentions, made good be- on Jan. 30, 2020. ginnings, but stalled as teachers carries our culture with it: Friday is moved on, as the department invest- “No Meat Day.” I didn’t spell every ed in new platforms. In December word correctly, but when I looked at 2018, the Osage Nation Language my paper, I realized, I’d written the Department created a Facebook See Murray page that has grown into a portal —Continued on Page 17

Incumbent Maria Whitehorn became Candidates the 11th candidate to file for candida- –from Page 1 cy. Whitehorn is seeking a third Con- gressional term after winning her first first and is seeking a second four-year term in 2012 and re-election in 2016. term on the 12-member Congress. She also ran for principal chief in 2018. Jodie Revard filed for candidacy Mary Jo Pratt filed for candidacy and second. Revard, deputy director of op- was the 12th candidate. Pratt works in erations for the Executive Branch, tribal business development with expe- previously served on the 31st Osage rience in project management and as a Tribal Council under the Nation’s financial analyst. This is Pratt’s second former government. time seeking Osage office after running Michael Bristow is the third can- didate to file for office. Bristow isa for Congress in 2018. current ON Health Authority Board Amanda Proctor filed for candidacy member and previously ran for Con- on Feb. 28 as the 13th candidate. An gress in 2016. attorney who works in Osage and sur- Colt Herren became the fourth Osage rounding counties, Proctor has previ- to file for office. Herren is a City of Tul- ously ran for Assistant Principal Chief sa firefighter who ran for Congressio- in 2010 and Congressional office in the Tulsa Public Schools Superintendent Deborah Gist addresses the crowd at the TPS commu- nal office in 2018. election years after. nity meeting on Jan. 30 in Tulsa. On Feb. 6, incumbent John Maker Later that day, incumbent RJ Walk- filed for candidacy. Maker, a former er filed as the 14th candidate. A former ON Language Department teacher, is ON Roads Department director, Walk- seeking his third Congressional term er is seeking his third Congressional in office. term after winning the 2012 and 2016 On Feb. 7, Melissa Dailey filed for elections. candidacy. Dailey, who has lived in Incumbent Shannon Edwards filed the Houston area, has organized Texas as the 15th and final candidate also Osage Association-Houston gatherings on Feb. 28. Edwards, an Edmond at- in recent years. torney, is seeking her fourth Congres- On Feb. 11, Jim Trumbly filed and sional term after winning a seat on the was the seventh candidate to do so. First ON Congress and re-election in Trumbly is a seasoned college professor 2012 and 2016. who has also worked as a project man- The next ON Election Board meet- ager for the Nation’s Bird Creek Farm. ing is scheduled March 9 at 1 p.m. to This is Trumbly’s first run at seeking consider certifying the Congressional Congressional office. candidates. The next day, Billy Keene filed and In this year’s election, there will be became the eighth candidate. Keene at least one new Congress member has worked for the Nation as an ac- elected with one incumbent who did counting worker, compliance spe- not file for candidacy seeking another cialist and previously served on the term. Congressman Archie Mason, who Nation’s Utility Authority Board. This has served three terms since winning is Keene’s first run at seeking Congres- election on the First ON Congress in Alison Black, Oklahoma Council for Indian Education president, speaks to a parent at a par- sional office. 2006, told the Osage News he intend- ent meal hosted at the Tulsa Indian United Methodist Church in Tulsa before the TPS com- On Feb. 14, Michael Kidder filed ed to retire from public office when his munity meeting on Jan.30. and was the ninth candidate. Kidder term ends. previously served on the ON Gaming The ON Election Office website con- Commission Board and is an employ- tains other forms and information on ly made up of Chief Justice Meredith ment and training coordinator for the the 2020 general election including Amendment Drent, Associate Justice Elizabeth ON Financial Assistance Office. Kidder address update forms, absentee ballot –from Page 5 Lohah Homer and Associate Justice also ran in the 2014 and 2018 Congres- request forms, and information on the Drew Pierce. yes for the amended motion. Congress- sional elections. privacy program regarding voter in- Edwards filed her candidacy for the woman Angela Pratt was absent. On Feb. 27, Pam Shaw filed for can- formation listed on the voter registry 2020 Osage Nation General Election on didacy, making her the 10th candidate. list. The website is at www.osagena- If the Congress votes to have a spe- Feb. 28. Shaw has worked in tribal gaming for tion-nsn.gov/what-we-do/elections cial session with the purpose of re- Editor’s Note: This article was pub- several years in a variety of posts in- Editor’s Note: Editor Shannon moving Edwards, the Osage Nation lished online Feb. 26 as the story was cluding marketing and general man- Shaw Duty will not be involved in cov- Supreme Court will appoint a justice to unfolding. This is the third article in ager. This is Shaw’s first time seeking erage related to candidate Pam Shaw, preside over the trial. a series that ran online at www.osage- Osage Congressional office. who is her aunt by marriage. The ON Supreme Court is current- news.org Community March 2020 15 Texas Osage spring gatherings set for March 21-22 weekend Benny Polacca way in the Azalea Room. The Texas Osages of Houston is Osage News event starts at 8:30 a.m. and is inviting the Osage public to expected to last through 4 p.m. the 2020 spring gathering in During the March 21-22 “Please join us for intro- Conroe at the Tamina Park weekend, there are two Osage ductions and speeches by our Community Building at 19500 gathering events planned in Osage Congress 2020 candi- Main St. The Houston area the and Houston metro- dates with a candidate forum event starts at 1 p.m. and goes politan areas. after lunch that will address through 6 p.m. Both events – held on sep- several topics such as edu- According to the event cation, health care, casinos, announcement, the gather- arate days – will feature up- elder care and the Miner- ing features updates from dates from Osage officials and als Estate,” according to the Osage officials in atten- meeting opportunities with event announcement. dance regarding the Nation’s Osage Congressional candi- Interested attendees are government, Osage Min- dates seeking office in the June asked to RSVP for atten- erals Council and the ON 1 general election. All Osages dance and the event lunch Congress, including attending are invited to attend the two with Jim Ryan who can be Congressional candidates. events and can RSVP with the reached at (210) 825-6747 or Lunch will be served and planner contacts. email [email protected]. interested attendees are re- On Saturday, March 21, The Texas Osage Association quired to RSVP by March the Spring 2020 Texas Osage Facebook group is also avail- 13. For more information Meeting will be held in Irving able on the social media plat- and to RSVP, the email con- at the Holiday Inn Express form for event updates and tact is texas.osages@gmail. Irving D/FW North located at other information. com and phone contact is 4550 W. John Carpenter Free- On Sunday, March 22, the (713) 969-9468. Dillon Bowers Council requests accounting data after Congratulations! Dillon Bowers, Osage, parents are Danny and Lin- graduated with a Bachelor of da Boone of Pawhuska, and quarterly check amounts come into question Science in Agricultural Sci- Dwight and Nina Bowers and Lenzy Krehbiel-Burton start providing more account- However, that money was not ences and Natural Resources the late Mary Bowers of Fair- Osage News ing data. formally processed until Jan. – Natural Resource Ecology view, OK. “I don’t know if things are 3, 2020, prompting questions and Management from Okla- Dillon is from the Gray- After two late headright rumors or reality … but I need about potential missed income homa State University on horse District. He would like payments and a delayed an- more than a letter,” Council- on the March check. Dec. 14, 2019. to thank the Osage Nation nouncement on the March woman Marsha Harlan said at “What’s really dishearten- Dillon is the son of Charles Education Department for check amounts, the Osage the council’s Feb. 19 meeting. ing for me is that I’m sitting and Julie Boone Bowers of their support in continuing Minerals Council is asking “I have no reason not to trust here in this meeting as super- Verdigris, OK. His grand- his education. the Department of Interior to the OST, but I need to see intendent as the Osage Agen- some hard proof.” cy and a fiduciary trust officer A flurry of questions began and this has all been news to after the council’s staff con- me,” Robin Phillips said. “We firmed that the payment num- will talk about this with the Save the Date bers they received from the Albuquerque office.” Osage Agency were substan- This marks the third consec- –Local Events Calendar tially different from its own utive quarter where there have MARCH 2020 “Killers of the Flower Moon” in-house records, thus pre- been concerns about timely venting the announcement at headright checks. The Decem- Book Signing MAY 2020 March 2 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. the time of March’s headright ber shareholder checks were 11th Annual Wahzhazhe Water Bird Gallery May 1 payment amount. not sent out simultaneously, Cultural Encampment 134 E. 6th Street STAR Scholarship The Osage Agency is one of a prompting a flurry of questions handful of sites nationally that from shareholders and council- Registration Opens Pawhuska, OK Deadline For more information call For more information still relies on having someone ors alike. October’s headright March 28 (918) 287-5537 or email contact the Education manually match checks gener- checks were delayed by OST United Osages of Southern ated by trust land activity with due to the implementation of a jhudgins@osagenation-nsn. Department California invoices, then credit individu- new accounting system. gov (918) 287-5300 Spring Gathering al accounts with that revenue, After the meeting, the coun- March 10, 17, 24, 31 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. May 2 plus any interest accrued. cil announced that the March Tools for Preparation & Carlsbad Senior Center, Osage Nation JOM Contest Those checks are supposed payment will be $3,570 for a to be matched and deposit- Production of Vegetable 799 Pine Ave, Carlsbad CA Powwow full headright. A spokeswom- ed within 48 hours of hitting an for the Office of the Special Farming (760) 802-7591 or socal. Osage County Fairgrounds the lockbox. Trustee confirmed on March 2 Osage Nation Bird Creek [email protected] 2 p.m. Gourd Dance According to the Office of that the payments were posted Farm 5 p.m. Supper March 29 the Special Trustee, if a check to IIM accounts Feb. 28. Osage County Extension 7 p.m. Grand Entry Northern California Osage sits in the agency’s lockbox for “I appreciate the hones- Office Spring Gathering more than 48 hours, the per- ty of the OST employees who 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. May 15 2020 Congressional Osage Nation Higher son responsible for manually said there were checks in the For more information call entering the check amount is lockbox that weren’t cashed,” candidate forum and Education Scholarship (918) 287-4170 supposed to also include any Councilwoman Margo Gray culture activity Registration Opens for interest it would have accrued said. “But this needs to be add- March 13 Fairfield Inn and Suites entire school year had it been posted faster. ed to our consultation agen- Osage Nation Sovereignty 2100 Freeway Dr. For more information More than $2 million was da so it can be addressed. It Day (Observed) Woodland, Calif. call (855) 758-8609 or deposited in the Osage Agen- makes no sense to still be go- March 14 email OsageNation@ cy’s lockbox on Dec. 20, 2019. ing through a lockbox.” Sovereignty Day Powwow APRIL 2020 scholarshipamerica.org Skyline Event Center April 3 May 30-31 Osage Casinos – Tulsa 11th Annual Wahzhazhe Five Moons Dance Festival 2 p.m. Gourd Dance Cultural Encampment Honoring Five Native Wahzhazhe 7 p.m. Grand Entry Registration Closes American Ballerinas from March 16-20 For more information call Oklahoma Osage Nation Film Camp (918) 287-5537 or email Hosted by OU School of For students ages 11-14 jhudgins@osagenation-nsn. Dance Located in Bartlesville gov Norman, OK For more information April 4 For more information email call Jennifer Holding at Osage News Candidate [email protected] (918) 287-5300 or email at Debates (405) 325-4051 jholding@osagenation-nsn. 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. gov This event will also be live JUNE 2020 streamed on the Osage Baked Rabbit March 21 June 17 News Facebook page For real delicious eating, take a young rabbit, wild or domes- Texas Osage Association Osage Nation Higher Osage Casino & Hotel tic. Soak in cold water for a few hours. While soaking, make a 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Education Scholarship Holiday Inn Express Irving Tulsa dressing of 1 pt. breadcrumbs, moistened with hot water, 1 tbsp. Registration Deadline for of meat fryings or butter, 1 tsp. salt, ½ tsp. pepper, 1 tbsp. sage, D/FW North, Azalea Room April 11 entire school year 1 small onion grated. 4550 West John Carpenter 106th OU AISA Annual 11:59 p.m. If desired par-boil liver and heart. Mince and mix with stuff- Freeway, Spring Powwow For more information ing. Mix well and fill cavity in rabbit. Rub rabbit with salt, pep- Irving, TX 75063 1 p.m. to 11 p.m. call (855) 758-8609 or per and flour. Add small pieces of salt pork or butter. Bake slowly For more information email Norman, OK email OsageNation@ and baste often until rabbit is tender. [email protected] or call Recipe taken from the cookbook, “Authenticated American In- April 25 scholarshipamerica.org (210) 825-6747 dian Recipes,” by Sylvester and Alice Tinker, copyright 1955. 5th Annual Welcome Home March 22 Vietnam Era Veterans OCTOBER 2020 Texas Osages of Houston Parade & Expo October 12 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Warm Springs, OR Osage Day Tamina Park Community www.WSala48.org Building (541) 460-8212 Have an event? Send event in- 19500 Main Street formation to the Osage News, Attn.: April 25-26 Shannon Shaw Duty, 604 Kihekah, Conroe, TX 77385 Pawhuska, OK 74056; email sshaw@ 11th Annual Wahzhazhe RSVP by March 13 osagenation-nsn.gov, or fax to (918) Cultural Encampment 287-5563. Make sure to include event For more information email date, location, email and web address For more information call [email protected] or (if applicable) and a phone number (918) 287-5537 or email where someone can be contacted for (713) 969-9468 jhudgins@osagenation-nsn. validation, if necessary. Deadline for each subsequent issue of the Osage March 27 gov News is the 18th of every month. Classifieds March 2020 16 OSAGE NATION JOBS: To and locating files, organize team pliance with applicable internal coordination and supervision of of all Table Games shift opera- apply for a position with the construction reports and docu- policies and procedures, gaming the Cage Department on shift tions including, but not limited to: Osage Nation go to https:// ments, maintaining mail for the regulations, and external agency and/or as assigned by the report- providing leadership to assigned www.osagenation-nsn.gov/ department and manage the office requirements. ing senior. staff, ensuring effective internal phone. opportunities/job-listings/ap- Maintenance Technician – Bar- Casino Services Agent – Sand and external communications, plication-form.Applicants are Teacher Assistant Head Start tlesville, regular full time. This Springs, regular full time. Respon- exercising appropriate judgment welcome to attach a resume – Pawhuska, regular part-time. position is responsible for the sible for distributing money to and decision-making skills, and and/or cover letter in addi- Performs para-professional edu- overall maintenance, plumbing, gaming guests via check cashing, ensuring that all departmental tion. Please note that all appli- cational work in planning, pre- and electrical components of the credit card advances, conversion and staff activities are monitored cants tentatively selected for paring, and implementing a Head building and grounds of chips and coins, and gaming and performed as efficiently and employment with the Osage Start Program for young chil- tickets into currency. Responsible effectively as possible. Ensures HOMINY Nation will be required to sub- dren and their families. Assists for providing support and service assigned staff operates in com- mit to a urinalysis to screen the lead teacher in a cooperative Security Officer – Hominy, regular to club members and other casi- pliance with applicable internal for illegal drug use. Employ- and professional manner. Drives full time. Protects company assets no visitors to ensure maximum policies and procedures, gaming ment will be contingent upon school bus or assists as bus mon- and provides a safe environment guest satisfaction. Responsible regulations, and external agency drug test results. OSAGE\ itor as needed. for employees and guests. To per- for promoting the success of the requirements. VETERAN\INDIAN PREFER- form this job successfully, an in- Case Specialist – Pawhuska, reg- Club Osage, by assisting guests Bartender – Tulsa, regular full ENCE IS CONSIDERED. Ver- dividual must be able to perform ular full time. The Case Special- through the membership pro- time. Under general supervision ification of preference must each essential job duty satisfac- ist is responsible for the planning cess, and explaining the bene- of the Beverage Supervisor, main- be included with application. torily. The requirements listed and management of new and ex- fits of membership and details of tain the bar area. Provides excel- For questions please contact below are representative of the isting child support cases. The on-going promotions and events. lent customer service in a timely Taryn Crawford, Osage Na- knowledge, skill and/or ability Case Specialist will work closely Protects company assets while manner. Prepare all drink orders, tion Employee Recruitment required. Individual must be at with the Program Manager, Fi- dealing with the public in an effi- delivers and refills drink orders, Specialist at (918) 287-5445 least 18 years of age. nance Specialist, and Paternity/ cient and courteous manner and responds to quest questions or email tcrawford@osagena- and requests. Handle all payment tion-nsn.gov. Case Initiation Specialist to make Regional Count Team Attendant Food and Beverage Supervisor – certain each child support case re- – Hominy, regular full time. Re- Sand Springs, regular full time. transactions accurately. Certification/Issuance Clerk – ceives proper attention. The Case sponsible for retrieval of currency Under general supervision of the Cabana Attendant – Tulsa, reg- Pawhuska, regular full time. Pro- Specialist monitors and applies boxes and table game drop boxes, Food and Beverage Manager, ular full time. Under the direct vides support and assistance to enforcement action to cases not in emptying drop boxes once they are manages day-to-day supervision supervision of the Food and Bev- eligible applicants/participants compliance. Case Specialist must delivered to the count room and of food and beverage operations erage Supervisor, the Cabana by performing nutrition activ- work closely with external tribal ensuring accuracy of daily count which includes point of sale trans- Attendant is responsible for en- ities related to nutritional risk and state child support agencies. operations. Performs all duties at actions, quality, guest satisfac- gaging Osage Casino guests, deliv- factors, including selecting and multiple properties in accordance Intake Specialist – Pawhuska, tion, and inventory of stock. ering food and beverages poolside, providing basic and/or custom- with Company core values, the regular full time. The Intake Spe- Cocktail Server – Sand Springs, assisting bartenders/short order ized supplemental food packages objectives of the Osage Nation, cialist will accept applications regular full time. This position is cooks in production and delivery to participants while providing internal policies, procedures and and manage the communication responsible for taking orders and of items, ensuring the pool area is individualized nutrition educa- controls, as well, as applicable clean and Osage Casino’s patrons tion based on the assessment of internally and externally between serving alcoholic and/or non-alco- the applicants and program staff. laws including but not limited to have an enjoyable experience. health and nutrition information holic beverages. Responsible for Intake Specialist will check all the USA Patriot Act, and gaming obtained. In addition, performs providing friendly and profession- Casino Services Agent – Tulsa, applications for completeness and regulations. applicant/participant eligibility al service to every guest encoun- regular full time. Responsible enter into CRM, or related data- and certification; provide expla- Short Order Cook – Hominy , reg- tered. for distributing money to gaming base. ular full time. Under general su- nation of the Women, Infants and Armed Security Officer – Sand guests via check cashing, credit pervision of the Food & Beverage Children (WIC) program, its bene- Prevention Specialist – Pawhus- Springs, regular full time. Pro- card advances, conversion of chips Supervisor, maintains an efficient fits, and basic nutrition education ka, regular full/part time. The tects company assets and provides and coins, and gaming tickets into food operation by preparing hot to participants; and enters and Prevention Specialist will work a safe environment for employees currency. Responsible for provid- and cold food items in accordance retrieves participation informa- in partnership with the Osage and guests. This position requires ing support and service to club with production requirements, tion in an automated information Nation Immersion and WELA a welcoming disposition and both members and other casino visitors recipes and established safety pol- system. Schools, public schools, area com- strong communication and inter- to ensure maximum guest satis- munities and other pertinent icies and procedures. faction. Responsible for promot- Licensed Behavioral Health Pro- active skills, as this is the first tribal departments to integrate a PAWHUSKA ing the success of the Club Osage, fessional (LBHP) – Pawhuska, Osage Casino Employee to greet comprehensive approach of pre- by assisting guests through the regular full time. The Licensed Regional Count Team Attendant – visitors and answer phones. vention programs strategies, goals membership process, and explain- Behavioral Health Professional Pawhuska, regular full time. SKIATOOK and objectives within the Osage ing the benefits of membership (LBHP) will provide counseling Nation Service area. Attending Responsible for retrieval of cur- Security Officer – Skiatook, reg- and details of on-going promotions services to the clients of Osage community meetings, developing rency boxes and table game drop ular full time. Protects company and events. Protects company as- Nation Counseling Center and marketing materials and forging boxes, emptying drop boxes once assets and provides a safe environ- sets while dealing with the public Primary Residential Treatment new collaborations for awareness they are delivered to the count ment for employees and guests. in an efficient and courteous man- while following applicable policies and sustainability of services for room and ensuring accuracy of To perform this job successful- ner. and state guidelines. The LBHP the Osage people. This position daily count operations. Performs ly, an individual must be able to will be responsible for assess- Busser – Tulsa, regular full time. will develop cross system linkages all duties at multiple properties perform each essential job duty ments, individual and group coun- Under the direct supervision of to serve prevention program par- in accordance with Company core satisfactorily. The requirements seling, treatment planning, and the Chef, assist the servers in ticipants within the communities values, the objectives of the Osage listed below are representative of other issues related to client care. serving food, filling drinks, clean- and provide expertise on specific Nation, internal policies, proce- the knowledge, skill and/or ability ing tables and work spaces, and Family Coordinator – Pawhus- community needs and goals by dures and controls, as well, as required. Individual must be at stocking work areas while main- ka, regular full time. The Fam- providing educational awareness, applicable laws including but not least 18 years of age. taining a friendly professional limited to the USA Patriot Act, ily Coordinator will promote resources, while gathering and Restaurant Server – Skiatook, manner. This list of duties and and gaming regulations. coordination and integration of evaluating meaningful demo- regular full-time. This position responsibilities is illustrative only family-centered care to ensure graphic information. This position Short Order Cook – Pawhuska, is responsible for taking orders of the tasks performed by this po- will prepare grant approved, Im- participation and involvement of regular full time. Under general and serving food, alcoholic and/or sition and is not all-inclusive. mersion/WELA specific preven- the entire family. He/she will pro- supervision of the Food & Bever- non-alcoholic beverages. Respon- tion materials for presentations Restaurant Server Thunder Bar vide and maintain quality helping age Supervisor, maintains an effi- sible for proper settlement of all to schools, mini-summits, and re- & Grill – Tulsa, regular part-time. services to clients, and will assist cient food operation by preparing transactions at point of sale. Re- lated community events to include This position is responsible for clients in their attempt to reach hot and cold food items in accor- sponsible for providing friendly various populations with a focus taking orders and serving food, individual treatment goals. dance with production require- and professional service to every on Osage tribal members. alcoholic and/or non-alcoholic bev- Administrative Assistant - Youth ments, recipes and established guest encountered. erages. Responsible for proper set- Osage Nation Education De- & Family TREE – Pawhuska, reg- safety policies and procedures. TULSA tlement of all transactions at point ular full time. The Administrative partment Internship – Hominy, of sale. Responsible for providing PONCA CITY Short Order Cook – Tulsa, regular Assistant provides support to the temporary full time. The Osage friendly and professional service Casino Services Agent, regular full time. Under general supervi- Director, as well as to the staff Nation Education Department to every guest encountered. and clients. He/she is responsible Internship Program is designed part-time. Responsible for distrib- sion of the Food & Beverage Su- for assisting families in checking/ to provide Osage students with uting money to gaming guests via pervisor, maintains an efficient Restaurant Server – Stone Creek finding insurance, scheduling ap- work experience in their chosen check cashing, credit card advanc- food operation by preparing hot – Tulsa, regular full time. This pointments, as well as organizing field of study. The program is de- es, conversion of chips and coins, and cold food items in accordance position is responsible for taking and/or planning events and out- signed to serve enrolled members and gaming tickets into currency. with production requirements, orders and serving food, alcoholic ings held by the TREE Program. of the Osage Nation with a min- Responsible for providing support recipes and established safety pol- and/or non-alcoholic beverages. imum of 61+ hours completed in and service to club members and icies and procedures. Responsible for proper settlement PRT Monitor- Pawhuska, regular of all transactions at point of sale. an accredited college or univer- other casino visitors to ensure Dishwasher – Tulsa, regular full part-time. The PRT Monitor pro- Responsible for providing friendly sity degree program. The intern maximum guest satisfaction. time. Under general supervision vides supervision and guidance and professional service to every program also accepts applications Responsible for promoting the of the Food and Beverage Manag- to residents of the treatment pro- from students who are enrolled in success of the Club Osage, by as- guest encountered. gram during the evening/night er, washes and sanitizes all equip- their final 9 weeks of vocational sisting guests through the mem- ment and utensils used in food Armed Security Officer – Tulsa, hours. Must be available for week- technology programs. Applicants bership process, and explaining ends and holidays as needed. Must preparation. regular full time. Protects com- are required to carry a 2.5 or the benefits of membership and pany assets and provides a safe be able to identify and work with Craft Beer Sales – Tulsa, regular higher-grade point average in the details of on-going promotions and environment for employees and the American Indian community full time. This position is the face semester previous to application. events. Protects company assets guests. This position requires a at large and relate to their needs of Nine Band Tulsa and our front Please review the ONE Higher while dealing with the public in welcoming disposition and both under our program activities. line connection to our distributors, Scholarship Handbook for limita- an efficient and courteous manner strong communication and inter- accounts and customers through- Alternative Certified Teacher K-5 tions and incentives. active skills, as this is the first Front Desk Agent – Ponca City, out the state of Oklahoma. Pri- – Pawhuska, regular full time. Osage Casino Employee to greet OSAGE CASINO JOBS: To ap- regular full time. Under direct mary goal is to sell our beers by The primary responsibility of the visitors and answer phones ply for a position with Osage supervision of the Front Desk creating and fostering relation- Daposka Ahnkodapi Certified Casino go to www.osagecasi- Supervisor, welcomes and serves Teacher is to teach core curric- ships with those distributors, Maintenance Engineer, Electrical nos.com/careers guests in a courteous, efficient accounts and customers, and by – Tulsa, regular full time. This po- ulum and develop a community and friendly manner. Completes of Osage learners. The Certified BARTLESVILLE educating those parties on Nine sition is responsible for the overall check in and check out for guests. Band Brewery brands. Using renovation, planned maintenance Teacher will be required to work Regional Count Team Attendant – Maintains guest confidentiality of interpersonal skills, to build our of electrical components, includ- with children to develop fluency Bartlesville, regular full time. Re- all information. brands through the executing of ing motors, controllers, light and literacy in communication sponsible for retrieval of currency sales and marketing plan for the control system, and LV distribu- with the Osage language, while boxes and table game drop boxes, Shift Supervisor – Ponca City, territory, including strengthened tion on assigned properties and teaching core skills and objec- emptying drop boxes once they are regular full time. Responsible for relationships with distributors grounds. tives to mastery as prescribed by delivered to the count room and the overall effective and efficient and ting accounts, identifying and national standards. Additionally, ensuring accuracy of daily count supervision of all casino floor shift Security Officer – Tulsa, regular closing new sales opportunities, students cultivate understanding operations. Performs all duties at operations as assigned by the re- full time. Protects company assets and executing program targets. and appreciation of Osage cul- multiple properties in accordance porting senior. and provides a safe enjoinment for ture, inspiring self- esteem and with Company core values, the Restaurant Server – Ponca City, Hotel Room Attendant – Tulsa, employees and guest. strengthening attitudes among regular full time. Under direct objectives of the Osage Nation, regular part-time. This position IT Analyst – Tulsa, regular full students and their community. supervision of the Hotel House- internal policies, procedures and is responsible for taking orders time. Provides 2nd level support The Certified Teacher creates les- keeping Supervisor, transfers controls, as well, as applicable and serving food, alcoholic and/or for service requests reported to son plans and teaches those plans clean and dirty linens and trash laws including but not limited to non-alcoholic beverages. Respon- the helpdesk desk. Responsibil- to the entire class, individually to to/from laundry and room atten- the USA Patriot Act, and gaming sible for proper settlement of all ities include assessment, triage, students or in small groups, tracks regulations. dants cart. Assists with stocking transactions at point of sale. Re- research, and resolution of service student progress and presents the other items as needed within the Table Games Supervisor – Bar- sponsible for providing friendly requests regarding the use of ap- information to parents, creates hotel. Ensures cleanliness of Ho- tlesville, regular full time. Re- and professional service to every plication software products and/ tests, creates and reinforces class- tel Guest Rooms, Banquet Rooms sponsible for the overall effective guest encountered. or infrastructure components. room rules, and prepares students and common areas. Responsible and efficient supervision of all Short Order Cook – Ponca City , Support includes installation, and for standardized tests. for moving furniture, boxes, stock- Table Games shift operations regular full time. Under general testing of computer systems and ing and re-stocking shelves, and Administrative Services Coordi- as assigned by the reporting se- supervision of the Food & Bever- peripherals within established trash removal. nator – Pawhuska, regular full nior including, but not limited to: age Supervisor, maintains an effi- standards and guidelines. Activ- time. Administrative Services Co- providing leadership to assigned cient food operation by preparing Dual Rate Table Games Dealer – ities require interaction with ap- ordinator will be responsible for staff, ensuring effective internal hot and cold food items in accor- Tulsa, regular full time. The Dual plication software and operating assisting the Tribal Development and external communications, dance with production require- Rate Table Games Dealer will systems to diagnose and resolve team manage construction proj- exercising appropriate judgment ments, recipes and established function as a Dealer or Supervisor unique, non-recurring problems. ects for the Osage Nation. The and decision-making skills, and safety policies and procedures depending on the needs of busi- The position’s responsibilities re- candidate must demonstrate an ensuring that all departmental ness. Responsible for dealing all quire independent analyses, com- SAND SPRINGS ability to work in a team envi- and staff activities are monitored games offered at OC in a friendly munication and problem solving. ronment. Some administrative and performed as efficiently and Cage Supervisor – Sand Springs, efficient manner. When super- Work is performed with little su- details will be required such as effectively as possible. Ensures regular full time. Responsible for vising, responsible for the overall pervision and requires initiative setting up meetings, maintaining assigned staff operate in com- the overall effective and efficient effective and efficient supervision and judgment. Obituaries March 2020 17 Kathleen “Kathy” Snyder over the past 28 years. Kathy’s Harry Roy Red Eagle Submitted by Family daughter, Kelly will continue February 21, 1943 - February 20, 2020 her legacy into the future, with Submitted by Family Kathleen “Kathy” Snyder, the help of many dedicated 69 of Eugene, Ore., passed staff members. Harry Roy Red Eagle, 76, away on December 12, 2019 Kathy was an inspiration to of Hominy, Oklahoma passed after a four-and-a-half-year those who knew her with her away on February 20, 2020, at battle with cancer. Kathy is iron will determination, spice his residence surrounded by survived by her sister, Lin- for life, and “Guts to Win” at- his family. da Sather; children, Tyler, titude. Kathy also inspired Harry Roy is the son of Kelly, and Alisha; and grand- those around her to believe in Harry, Jr. and Willimina children, Ruben, Olivia, and themselves, no matter the cir- (Montgomery) Red Eagle. His Carmen. Kathy is predeceased cumstances. grandparents were Clara and by her parents, Jack and Kathy was a huge Duck fan, Roy Montgomery and Har- Shelly Prince; her brother, Duck Athletic Fund contrib- ry and Mary Red Eagle. His Harry Roy Red Eagle John Prince; and husband, utor and season ticket holder great-grandparents on his Daniel Snyder. Kathleen “Kathy” Snyder Rural Oklahoma Schools, and for the past 15+ years. She Osage side were E-gron-kah- Kathy was born in Long Cooperative Council for Okla- which would become part of often traveled with the Alum- shin-kah and his wife Hum-pa- Beach, CA to Jack and Shelly to-kah and Paul and Cecelia homa School Administration. her life’s work and passion. ni Association, including the Prince and went to Loara High Kathy founded Supported Red Eagle. Harry also loved growing up Rose, Natty, and Fiesta Bowl School in Anaheim, CA. Kathy Employment Services, Inc. in Harry Roy grew up on his Osage and dancing in the In- Games. Kathy firmly believed and her family traveled quite 1991, a company dedicated grandmother’s original Osage lonshka and was on the Zon- her famous Duck nails were a bit due to her father’s in- to providing vocational and allotment south and west of Zo-Li dance committee. He was essential to the Ducks win- volvement in the NASA space supported living services to Hominy with his two sisters, also elected to the 31st Osage ning. Kathy was also a proud program, and Oregon was a adults with disabilities. Kathy Anita and Janet. The site is lo- Tribal Council and served favorite destination. In 1975, believed that people with dis- constituent of the Osage and cated near Black Dog’s Camp his people. Kathy moved to Eugene, along abilities should have the same Cherokee Nations. on Black Dog Creek. He grew He and his first-grade class- with her brother John to take opportunities as any other A Celebration of Life took up on a farm and ranch where mate and best friend, Pauline, up permanent residence. member of society. The SES place on January 11, 2020 at his grandfather, Harry Red were married on Sept. 24, In 1989, Kathy earned a mission is to find job opportuni- the Ford Alumni Center 1720 Eagle Sr., raised prized horses. 1960, and have been married Bachelor of Science Degree in ties that are community based, East 13th Avenue in Eugene to He attended Hominy Pub- for 59 years. They resided at Psychology/Women Studies employer paid, competitive and honor her life and her legacy. lic Schools where he excelled the same place where he grew at the University of Oregon. integrated into the communi- Go Ducks!!! in both academics and sports. up, southwest of Hominy, at Here, she was first exposed to ty. Kathy and the SES team Arrangements were in the He won the English Writing the old Red Eagle place. the field of Supported Employ- assisted hundreds of custom- care of Sunset Hills Funeral Award when he was a senior. Harry is survived by his ment and the SPED program, ers find long term employment Home in Eugene. His favorite activities were wife, Pauline (Wallace) Red baseball, softball and basket- Eagle; sisters, Janet Good- ball – but the game of football fox and Anita Red Eagle; Quinton Townsend mahri, Koryon and Craig. He had his heart. He was named to daughters, Kelly and husband Cheshewalla is also survived by his sis- the OSSAA All-State football Rusty Dyer, and Walisa Red Kendrick McCartney Johnson Funeral Home ters, Francene, Anna, Yvonne, team, and a Prep All-American Eagle; sons, Paul Red Eagle, in the New York publication Marjory, Monika, and Louise, and Harry Roy Red Eagle Quinton Townsend “Sporting News.” Jr.; granddaughters, Katie along with numerous cousins, Cheshewalla passed away Harry received his Bache- and husband Jessie Stewart, on Wednesday evening, Feb. nieces and nephews and many lor’s and Master’s degrees in Danielle and husband Derek 5, 2020. dear friends. Business Education. His first Ebert, and Amber Red Ea- Quinton was born in Inde- Quinton was a unique spir- teaching and coaching job was gle; four great-grandchildren, on the Navajo Reservation pendence, KS, July 29, 1949, it – his laughter and positiv- Gracie, Amre, Callie Jo, and at Fort Wingate, New Mexi- Harrison Roy Ebert “HRE”; to Esther and Jack Cheshewal- ity brought smiles to many. la. He attended McClain High co. In 1966, he was hired as and many nieces, nephews, He was a good friend, brother, School in Tulsa, OK, and re- a teacher and coached in Ski- and cousins. ceived an HVAC degree from son, and father and the twin- atook, Okla. He taught gen- Harry is preceded in death the OSU Institute of Technol- Quinton Townsend Cheshewalla kle in his eyes will be missed eral business and soon after by his parents, Harry Jr. and was hired as the principal of ogy in Okmulgee. Quinton is preceded in by all. Willimina Red Eagle; grand- the Junior High and asked to He served in the United death by his parents, Esther parents, Harry and Mary Red Traditional services were coach the high school football States Navy as a medic and and Jack Cheshewalla; his Eagle; grandparents, Clara held on Feb. 10 at the Indian team. One of his favorite mem- worked in maintenance and brother, Rusty Cheshewalla; and Roy Montgomery. Camp Chapel. Mass followed ories at Skiatook was winning construction for most of his his daughter, Kimberly Jack- Visitation for Harry was the State Football Champi- life. Throughout his life, Quin- son and his grandson, Jeri- at the Immaculate Concep- held at the Red Eagle residence onship in 1974. That season ton loved being active, hiking cho Eli. He is survived by his tion Catholic Church. Father in Hominy. Indian Services he was named Oklahoma’s and biking with his children children, Brooke Lemon, Joe were held Feb. 24 at the Red Sean Donovan officiated. In- High School Football Coach of as well as working on his 1978 Cheshewalla and Ivy Harless; Eagle residence with Eddy Red terment was in the Pawhuska the Year. Pontiac Trans-Am, among oth- his grandchildren, Mellissa Eagle Jr. officiating. Funeral City Cemetery. His next favorite memory er cars. Above all else, Quin- services were held Feb. 24 at and James, Cheyenne, Gabri- was coaching his “under 8” Kendrick McCartney John- the First Christian Church in ton loved to laugh and to be ella, Kiela and Oliver, Kamree, soccer team at Skiatook. Those son Funeral Home was in Hominy with John Red Eagle surrounded by his friends and Kyler, Jack, and Townsend; young men had the opportu- officiating. Musical selections family. his great-grandchildren, Ka- charge of arrangements. nity to play in the finals at were “The Lord’s Prayer” and Old Skelly Stadium and won “Precious Memories” by the the Green Country Champi- by his wife, Mary Lou; par- Neighbors Quartet. Burial fol- Larry A. Potter onship trophy. He was also ents, Leon and Lettie; siblings, Submitted by Family privileged to coach the Jenks lowed the services at the A.J. Leon Franklin Potter, Mildred Trojans football team with his Powell Memorial Cemetery Larry Allan Potter, 75 of Jean Potter Freeman, Billie in Hominy. Cushing, Oklahoma passed friend and former Chief of the Curtis Potter, Sylvia Evelyn Pallbearers were Bill Shad- peacefully from this life on Muscogee (Creek) Nation, Per- Potter, and Maretta Jane Pot- low, Wilson Pipestem, Lindy January 13, 2020 in Chandler, ry Beaver, where they won a ter Sumter. state championship in 1982. Eslick, Joe Rozell, Billy Proc- Oklahoma. Arrangements Harry later began his career tor, George Trumbly, Jack have been entrusted to the He is survived by his daugh- as a school superintendent at Taylor and Perry Collins. Hon- care of Palmer Marler Funeral ter, Brandy Flatt and Kev- Hominy Public Schools and orary Pallbearers were Tom Home of Cushing. Larry was in Stephens of Oklahoma served in the same capacity at Benham, Frank Hudson, Pat born in Cedar Vale, Kansas on City, and son, Darren Potter Sperry and Skiatook Schools. Passmore, Jerry Shaw, Char- September 12, 1944 to parents Larry A. Potter and wife Shelley of Cushing; He was appointed by the State lie Supernaw, Kugee Super- James Leon and Lettie Pearl tirement in 2000. They raised grandchildren, Baylee Flatt, Superintendent naw, Bill Butler, John Elmo (Johnson) Potter. He grew their two children in Sweeney, Karley Flatt, Tanner Flatt, to serve on the State Superin- Butler and All Students and up in Chautauqua, Kansas TX until moving to Cushing and Duncan Flatt all of Moore, tendent’s Advisory Board. Student Athletes whose lives graduating from Sedan High in 1986. Larry was very cre- and Gauge Potter, and Bris- Harry received many ac- he touched. Administering Ce- School in 1963. Larry then ative and enjoyed woodwork- tal Potter of Cushing; brother, colades during his career in dar was Batt DeRoin, Gregg went to vocational school re- ing projects to give as gifts Johnny Lee Potter of San An- education, including the Ren- Kidder and Roman Hutchens. ceiving training to become a to his friends and grandchil- tonio, TX; brother-in-law Del- nard Strickland Education Head Cook was Linda Lazelle. machinist where he worked at dren. He was a hard work- In lieu of flowers, memorial bert Sumter of Glencoe; and Leadership Award by the Funks Manufacturing in Cof- er and was always respected Greater Tulsa Area Indian Af- donations may be given to Mi- many extended family mem- feyville. Larry eloped to marry for his work ethic. When not fairs Commission in 2017. He chael J. Fox Foundation, P.O. bers and friends. the love of his life Mary Lou working he never missed an was also actively involved in Box 5014, Hagerstown, MD. Wellington on May 1, 1970 opportunity to spend time Graveside Services were the National Rural Education 21741. https://www.michael- in Miami, OK. Larry would with (and sometimes torment) held on February 1, 2020 at Association, Organization of jfox.org/ work over 20 years in the oil his grandchildren. Oak Hill Cemetery in Chau- industry for Phillips until re- Larry is preceded in death tauqua, KS. Murray receipt, business reply enve- Voters must mail the ab- –from Page 14 Election lope (with paid postage) and sentee ballot to the Pawhus- responses in Osage orthography. It was an Aha! moment—the –from Page 1 separate envelope for only the ka address provided on the pay off for the investment. The next day, I could still read what I absentee ballot. what-we-do/elections/vot- business reply envelope to had written. “It is recommended that er-information be counted. Absentee ballots Learning a language isn’t really hard. You just have to have you mail your absentee bal- The ON Election Office can mailed to any address other patience, be willing to not know what you’re doing, to feel lost, to be reached toll-free at (877) lot at least 10 days prior to guess wrong. Not many people enjoy feeling incompetent, likely than the address designated 560-5286 for questions and to Election Day, but the earlier even fewer Osages. I’m just beginning, but I want to share my receive an emailed copy of the the better – mark your calen- by the Election Board shall experience for folks who feel the orthography is a barrier (as I voter forms. The office also dars,” the instructional video be considered void, according had). provides forms for voter reg- stated. Ballots that are not to the election code. The work we do encourages others. Mary Oklah told me she’d signed or unenclosed will be istration, updating a mailing All mailed absentee ballots learned the orthography some years ago when John Maker, Mary considered void. Bighorse and Talee Redcorn taught. I’m inspired by Mary’s per- address and information on will be kept at the Pawhus- participating in the voter pri- The Osage election code severance, as I am by Vanessa Moore, who comes to class consis- ka Post Office until Election vacy program. also allows eligible voters tently, carrying her fat notebook of handouts. The ON Election Of- who received absentee bal- Day. At 10 a.m. that morn- Check with Osage Nation Language Department for the full fice website also includes lots in the mail but instead ing, the Election Office will schedule. Online classes include Beginner Lunch with Lan- an instructional video on wishes to vote in-person to pick up the absentee ballots guage, streamed Facebook Live on Tuesdays at noon (CST). Or- thography is noon (CST) Thursdays, and the Advanced Class submitting an absentee do so, but the absentee ballot with an ON Police Depart- ballot once it arrives for must be surrendered on Elec- is Thursday at 7 p.m. (CST), both are broadcast via Zoom, see ment escort and the absentee voter consideration. tion Day or the voter must Osage Nation Language Page for Zoom info. The Tuesday be- Absentee ballots will arrive sign an affidavit stating they ballots will be transported to ginners’ class streamed on Facebook on 2/18 has had 335 views, with an instruction sheet to requested an absentee ballot the polling site to be counted while class on 2/25 had 184 views. My gratitude to the Nation, follow, as well as a signature but did not vote it. with in-person ballots. the Language Department and all the teachers and learners for creating this community. I’m still practicing. Washka^ Opinion March 2020 18 TPS –from Page 4 Without Reservations pil funding. District enroll- ment overall has declined by about 5,000 students since the 2004-2005 school year. Originally slated to be pre- sented to the school board in mid-February, district officials announced earlier this month that the reorganization recom- mendation would be pushed back to mid-March based on early community feedback. Despite the parent commit- tee’s concerns voiced at its Feb. 11 meeting, Laura Grisso with TPS’ Language and Cul- tural Services confirmed the following day via email that the district still plans to follow that timeline. The framework for the reor- ganization was crafted based on a needs assessment con- ducted in August when the Indian Education Program handed out free school sup- plies to Native students. How- ever, less than 300 families completed that assessment, drawing additional criticism from the community about not including enough voices. TPS officials have promised to send out an additional informal sur- vey, but the timeline for its release is now in flux after the parent committee expressed concerns about access for par- Cartoon © Santo Domingo Pueblo Cartoon Artist, Ricardo Caté ents and guardians who do not use email, including some of its own members. “We are very interested in ings in federal or tribal court staying the case until jurisdic- death and is scheduled to be hearing more feedback from Reece under the Major Crimes Act. tional issues were resolved. back in Osage County District the community and we had –from Page 13 The murder case was origi- Jeremy Reece is scheduled Court on related charges on nally filed in state court. How- to be formally sentenced at 10 committed to those in atten- “This United States Attor- dance at the Indian Education ever, in 2017 after a ruling at a.m. on May 6. Until then, he April 17. According to Jeremy ney’s Office takes seriously community meeting on Jan. 30 the district court level that remains in the custody of the its special trust responsibility Reece’s court statement, Tyler to release a survey to do just the state did not have juris- U.S. Marshal Service. to prosecute violent crimes in Reece helped kidnap Holt and that,” Grisso said. “We also diction to prosecute the case, Tyler Reece is still in state Indian Country.” value our partnership and col- the Oklahoma Court of Crim- custody in the Osage County dig the shallow grave, but did Along with his brother Ty- laboration with our Title VI inal Appeals issued a ruling Jail in connection with Holt’s not administer the kill shot. parent committee. We have ler, Jeremy Reece has been delayed our release date of the in custody for more than four survey in order to seek more years in connection with Holt’s we’d pick up trash and sticks, clean up around feedback on the survey design death, whose body was found Simms the place for the maintenance man to mow,” he from the parent committee, on restricted Indian land –from Page 8 said. “When I left, I certainly never thought I’d the students, tribal leaders, northwest of Hominy with bul- ever be able to come back to receive an honorary and other key stakeholders. let wounds to the neck, shoul- Bacone College President Dr. Ferlin Clark in doctorate. That’s why I’m honored.” Once the survey is finalized, the release. “His strength in overcoming chal- ders and head. A second honorary doctorate will also be giv- we will share the access infor- lenges he faced in childhood, his resilience and The Reece brothers are cit- en to Phil “Joe Fish” Dupoint. mation through all of our com- his ability to make outstanding contributions in izens of the Muscogee (Creek) Founded as Indian University in 1880, Ba- munication channels and host all his leadership roles are impressive.” cone College is chartered by five tribes. The open computer labs for fami- Nation and Holt’s body was Simms said Bacone College is a place Simms lies who need computer and/or found on Osage land, thus remembers well from his childhood as a res- Osage Nation, Kiowa Tribe, United Keetoowah internet access.” opening the door for proceed- ident of the Murrow Indian Children’s Home, Band of Cherokee Indians of Oklahoma, which remains located on the Bacone College Otoe-Missouria Tribes and Cheyenne & Arap- also posted the reorganiza- campus in Muskogee, Oklahoma, according to aho Tribes. Extension tion plan’s assorted incarna- the release. The Bacone College Commencement will be- –from Page 4 tions to the Indian Education “When I was a kid at Murrow Indian Chil- gin at 9 a.m. Saturday, May 2 on the campus Program’s website. teacher’s assistants at ele- dren’s Home, Bacone would have us come up and located at 2299 Old Bacone Road, Muskogee. District officials have mentary schools and a cul- maintained that the reor- tural enrichment specialist ganization is necessary due nap Indian Community made the declaration would be hired to work with to a drop in Native student LLC after a rash of suicides and suicide attempts by Native TPS students across –from Page 7 all grades. enrollment based on the 506 tribal members, particularly among the youth. Some of the remaining Ti- forms returned by parents cers, the board approved the creation of Osage According to the most recent data available that are used to determine Aerospace and Defense LLC in the hopes of tle VI money would also be from the Montana Department of Health and used to pay for more tutoring federal and tribal per-pu- swooping in on contracts left from another Human Services, 42 of every 100,000 deaths stipends. Currently, the dis- pil funding. District enroll- Oklahoma tribe’s recently shuttered defense trict has enough funds to pay ment overall has declined by contracting firm. among Native youth is via suicide. teachers across 21 sites a sti- about 5,000 students since “I think there are some contracts we can pick The suicide rate still remains high in the Fort pend for up to four months to the 2004-2005 school year. up off of the ground,” CEO Gina Gray said. “We Belknap community, which is home to about “The good news is that just have to have the entity set up so we can provide after school tutoring 5,800 tribal members. Osage LLC deployed for Indian Education stu- we’ll have more time to com- move quickly if needed.” dents. The proposal as pre- municate, but the commu- Meanwhile, in other business, progress is fi- personnel to the area in July and those staffers sented on Jan. 30 calls for nity is still worried that we nally being made on one of Osage LLC’s out of are still waiting to get to see patients, but the expanding tutoring to every will be left out,” said Booker state government contracts. contract has been extended to accommodate the In 2019, Osage LLC won a contract from In- TPS site for eight months. T. Washington junior and extended delay. In response to communi- Tulsa Native Youth Board dian Health Services to provide assistance ad- “It’s finally, slowly, starting to turn up there,” ty feedback, the district has co-founder Parrish Pipestem. dressing a declared mental health emergency at the Fort Belknap Reservation. The Fort Belk- Gray said. March 18th is the deadline for all submissions for the April issue of the

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