The Turtle Speaks Gyah’-Wish

Atak-iaA Wyandotte Nation Publication

Volume 24, Issue 1 www.wyandotte-nation.org February 2020

Man v Bear: Tribal citizen tests his strength against mighty grizzlies

Pages 4 - 5

Gyah’-wish Atak-ia is published quarterly for Tribal Citizens by the Wyandotte Nation at its Inside: headquarters in Wyandotte, Okla. • Wyandotte book featured in article The Wyandotte Nation (918) 678-2297 • Holiday in Pictures 64700 E Hwy 60 (800) 256-2539 • Shop With a Cop a growing success Wyandotte, OK 74370 Fax (918) 678-2944

(C) Copyright 2020. All information, photographs, and other materials are copyrighted, and may not be reproduced without prior written consent of the Wyandotte Nation. Page 2 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia February 2020 Board of Directors From the Chief Billy Friend Chief...... Billy Friend Second Chief...... Norman Hildebrand, Jr. Councilperson...... Ramona Reid Councilperson...... Vivian Fink Councilperson...... Juanita McQuistion Councilperson...... Eric Lofland Happy New Year Did 2019 just race by? “Trust in the Lord with and new opportunities for Wyandotte It certainly did! The years seem to people. Every day we witness success Content zoom past, and this past year was no all your heart and lean stories, and it is incredibly gratifying to different. see Wyandotte’s grow and prosper. CALENDAR...... 3 not on your own under- At the end of each year, most of us We are now one of the largest FEATURE: Man v Bear...... 4-5 look back to see what we have achieved standing; in all your ways employers in Northeast , and Shop With a Cop...... 6 and make plans for the year to come. our growth continues daily. We are en- Town Hall Meetings...... 6 submit to him, and he will If we take a close look at what had gaged in a variety of business ventures Holidays in Pictures...... 7 been accomplished during our year, it make your paths straight.” and we value our diversification. We Book featured in historical article.. 8-11 is surprising to discover that we have have an active, innovative manage- What to know about 2020 Census.....12 -- Proverbs 3:5-6 made some real headway. Of course, we ment team that keeps our businesses Tribal Department Reports...... 13-19 have days during the year when we feel operating and profitable. Important Numbers...... 18 as if we have just been spinning our population is growing. These changes With all that we have been able to Community News...... 20 wheels, but if you look at some key ac- present opportunities for improvement do our greatest tribal success is…you! complishments, you can measure your in our delivery of services. You are now recognizing the unique results and see how much progress you Just two decades ago we had strictly opportunities your tribe offers and Editor/Design: William Swaim are actually making. limited resources. We were almost taking advantage of those opportuni- Cover Photo: At the Wyandotte Nation, the completely dependent on federal funds, ties. Our job here at the Tribe is to keep Sheldon Jackson Wyandotte people were at the top of and those dollars were not enough to those opportunities flowing, and help competes against our minds during the year. Our team fulfill our true needs. Wyandotte families achieve success a bear in new actively worked to develop new oppor- Changes began to be initiated that and happiness. TV show tunities for you to make your life better would develop new resources for us We must continually adjust to the Photo: from and bring you closer to your Tribe. and, in turn, present new opportunities changing lifestyles and needs of Wy- MVB Almost all Wyandottes are famil- for Wyandotte people. It was deter- andottes across the country. It is our iar with the many programs related mined that, as a sovereign nation, we desire to always bring to you the very to education, health care, housing, would grow our own, self-made busi- best your tribe has to offer! employment and so much more. Those nesses to get where we needed to go. Yes, 2019 has flown by, and we Contact Us who work for you at your Tribe are Plans were made to enter commercial can take a bit of time to check our continually driving new plans designed business and produce income to sup- achievements. Many Wyandotte people Submit a story idea or your latest news to make your life better. port our programs. It was always Chief across our great country this past year and photos. To submit, email William As our society has changed over the Bearskin’s and the Board of Directors grabbed opportunity and connected Swaim at [email protected] or call past several decades, and it is impor- goal to eventually become self-sustain- with their Tribe in positive ways. We (918) 932-4778. tant to be attentive and reactive to ing and self-reliant. plan to keep up the pace in 2020 with those changes, and especially to your Through hard work and a proper our mission always “to improve the Have News? needs. Today, single parents raising foundation we begin to have success in quality of life for every Wyandotte Share it children are much more common. commerce, and those successes have Citizen.” We want to hear from you! Send us People are living longer, so our elder fueled growth of our vital programs Happy New Year! news or stories you may have or suggest features for us to work on. Email: [email protected] From the Second Chief Norman Hildebrand, Jr. A bit of history: Wyandots

www.youtube.com/WyandotteNation departure from Kweh est project is Wyandotte Ridge north Wyandotte Ridge. I hope everyone survived the of Twin Bridges State Park. It is a In October I went to Albuquerque holidays and are looking forward to beautiful piece of property that should for the National Congress of American an exciting New Year. Here at the appeal to anyone wanting to build Indians Annual Conference and Mar- Wyandotte Nation we are always try- a home in a quaint country setting, ketplace. This year was an election ing to improve the area to benefit not and they are reasonably priced. If you year and my term as Eastern Okla- www.facebook.com/WyandotteNation only our Wyandotte Citizens, but the are wanting to move and build in the Wyandotte area as a whole. Our new- Wyandotte area I hope you check out See SECOND CHIEF, Page 3 February 2020 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 3 Upcoming Events 2020 Town Hall Meetings Gathering of Little Turtles Fireworks Celebration!

March June July 28-29 26 - 28 2

Newport Beach & Sacramento, Calif.

The Gathering 31st Annual Pow-Wow Annual Meeting

Sept. Sept. Sept. 9 - 11 11 - 13 12 10 am

All events in Wyandotte, Okla. unless otherwise noted

“Fill your mind with the meaningless stimuli of a world Second Chief preoccupied with meaningless things, and it will not be Continued from Page 2 easy to feel peace in your heart.” -- Marianne Williamson Temple to sing the sacred songs and homa alternate Vice-President was hear the story of the Cross. Here our ending so I ran for Eastern Oklahoma dead are buried. We have placed fresh Vice-President and won, I am the first was held on the grounds of the Mission of our White Brothers, our temple; flowers upon their graves for the last non- to hold this position Church. Reverend Wheeler presided to the Great Spirit, the grave of the time. No longer shall we visit them. in a very long time. It is my honor over the service and preached the last Wyandots. The Indian does not forget Soon they shall be forgotten, for the to be able to represent the 20 tribes farewell sermon. Squire Greyeyes, the pale-faced brother who came to onward march of the strong White headquartered in Eastern Oklahoma also an ordained Methodist minister, him with the message from the Great Man will not turn aside for the Indian for the National Congress of American delivered to those assembled a rousing Spirit, and who loved him well and graves. Farewell – Farewell Sandusky Indians -- the largest Tribal Advocacy farewell speech in Wandat. Greyeyes served him well. River. Farewell – Farewell our hunt- group in the . I will also eulogized the Wyandot Tribe’s depar- The White Man’s God has become ing grounds and homes. Farewell to enjoy working with David Woerz of the ture from Ohio, and here it is: the Indian’s God, and with us go the stately trees and forests. Farewell Nation as my Alternate “My people, the time for our depar- ever to our new home, our beloved to the Temple of the Great Spirit. area Vice- President. ture is at hand. A few words remain shepherd, Brother Wheeler, and sister Farewell to our White Brothers, and As everyone knows last September only to be said. Our entire nation Lucy Armstrong, the Wyandot bride. friends, and neighbors. It is but a little the Methodist Council deeded over has gathered here for farewell. We Surely like the white-faced truth of all time for us till we leave our earthly to the Wyandotte Nation the Old have this morning met together for that she says: Whither thou goest, I home; for here we are no continuing Methodist Mission Church in Upper the last time in our Love Feast. More will go and where thou lodgest, I will city, but we seek one that is to come, Sandusky, Ohio, the site of our last than two hundred have testified lodge; thy people shall be my people, whose builder and maker is God. recognized reservation. Before our to the great power of God. Brother and thy God my God; where thy diest I Let us remember the dying words of ancestors left Upper Sandusky, Squire Wheeler has preached the funeral will die, and there will I be buried. Brother Stewart: Be Faithful.” Greyeyes gave a farewell speech that for our dead – our John Stewart, our It remains only for me to say It was indeed a very moving speech, continues to bring tears to our eyes to beloved Monobcue, our recently mur- farewell. Yes, it is indeed farewell. No and tells everyone that they didn’t this day, here is what happened. dered Summundewat, our eloquent more shall we engage in the solemn want to leave but they had to for the On Sunday, July 9, 1843 the entire Between-the-Logs. They sleep the feast, or the feast of rejoicing. No more survival of the Tribe. It is events like Wyandot Tribe, at least the 664 souls sleep of death, but the hope of im- shall Sandusky’s Plains and forests this that makes me proud to be Second who intended to move west, assembled mortality is strong within our breasts. echo to the voice of song and praise. Chief of the greatest nation in the at Upper Sandusky. One last service Our chiefs have committed to the care No more shall we assemble in our country, the Wyandotte Nation. Page 4 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia February 2020

Photo Courtesy of MVB Jackson tests his strength in a monumental tug of war with a grizzly bear (pictured above) during the Discovery Channel's new show 'Man Vs. Bear.' (Below) Jackson tests his stamina while being chased up a tree by one of the grizzlies. Jackson left in awe after grizzly encounter Tribal citizen competes in new TV show 'Man Vs. Bear'

By William Swaim agility while a grizzly bear chased them Wyandotte Nation down. The episode was filmed in August at the Utah sanctuary where the bears Very few people, if given the opportunity reside. to square up against three grizzly bears, According to the show’s website, the would welcome and cherish that moment. competitions for ‘Man Vs Bear’ were But that wasn’t the case for Wyandotte designed around the exercise routines the Nation tribal citizen Sheldon Jackson, bears regularly follow – a combination of who tested his mettle against three griz- encouraging natural Grizzly instincts and zlies on the Discovery Channel’s new show actions. ‘Man Vs. Bear.’ For Jackson, the biggest challenge “It was great,” said Jackson, of Watts, wasn’t necessarily the grizzlies. Okla. “I loved the opportunity to be that “Honestly, the part that really got me close to a grizzly – it was a once in a life- was getting out of my own way,” Jackson time opportunity. It’s hard to explain -- it said. “I made myself nervous because I just leaves you in awe.” wanted to make friends and family proud, Jackson, a football coach, was one of and the Wyandotte Nation proud. The three contestants on the Dec. 18 “Human hardest part was just getting out of my Kannonball” episode of the show to chal- own head.” lenge Bart, Honey Bump and Tank in a monumental game of tug of war, a test of strength in rolling giant logs, and a test of See MVB, Page 5 February 2020 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 5 MVB Continued from Page 4 Jackson, in fact, did get out of his head long enough to finish as the winner on the episode. And at the time, had posted the second best score so far on the show. That is important because at the end of the season, the top three competitors with the most points will return one more time for the super-human showdown against the bears. Jackson’s road to the show came as a bit of a surprise. He said the show found him and at first he thought it might be a scam. Howev- er, after doing a little research found that they were just looking for every day people who were athletic. “They wanted someone ready to go out and prove to themselves they had that drive and passion to compete,” he said. “What guy doesn’t want to test himself? And what better way than to do it against a grizzly bear?” Sheldon grew up playing basket- ball and baseball in high school, and was very competitive. With part Wyandotte and part Cherokee in his blood, Sheldon’s Native American Photo Courtesy of MVB culture has always been important Jackson finds himself in a caged ball pushing back against a grizzly as to him and his family. He grew up one of three competitors in MVB. In hunting with his dad, and learned addition, he was tasked with a giant how to make bows and chip his own log rolling challenge. arrowheads. “A lot of it stemmed from my dad and he was big on not losing that years of experience, has lived with part of our heritage. It’s an impor- bears nearly his entire life. After tant part of my life,” he said. graduating college, he became a “It makes you proud. We’re wildlife filmmaker, and expert on smaller than other Tribes, but to say animal biology and behavior as well you are Wyandotte, it is a big thing as the founder of the Montana Griz- to us. To let the world know we are zly Encounter. here is a big thing.” If given the chance to do the show His appearance also made him a again, he said he wouldn’t even blink bit of a local celebrity. While a few before agreeing to do it. called him crazy, even more thought “I talked to Casey Anderson and it was ‘really cool.’ he said it was really neat, only hand- “I was at my son’s basketball game ful of people have been that close the other night and some little kids to a grizzly and survived,” Jackson stopped me and said they saw me on said. “Before the show, I thought TV. I never imagined I’d be a local about hunting bears, but it has celebrity. It is pretty wild.” changed me. After being that close, The TV series includes commen- it is different, you feel connected. I tary from Brandon Tierney and don’t think I would ever hunt one Casey Anderson. Brandon is an now.” Emmy Award-winning sports com- The show airs Wednesdays at 8 mentator. He is no stranger to live pm (CST) on the Discovery channel. sporting events – hosting game cov- Viewers can also join the conversa- erage for the New York Knicks and tion on social media by using the serving as a commentator for college hashtag #ManVsBear and follow basketball for the last 20 years. Discovery on Facebook, Instagram, Casey, a wildlife expert with 25 and Twitter for the latest updates. Page 6 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia February 2020 'Shop With a Cop' expanding its reach Program doubles the kids to lunch and snacks at the number of kids and families Wyandotte Nation’s Title VI Build- ing before heading to Miami for helped during holidays an afternoon of holiday shopping. Following the shopping, the officers y illiam waim B W S loaded the kids and volunteers on Wyandotte Nation two buses and brought the kids back The Wyandotte Nation Tribal to wrap the presents. Police Department (WNTPD) hosted Local families experiencing its annual ‘Shop With a Cop’ Sun- economic hardships are not always day, Dec. 8, and the impact of the able to provide children with their program is being felt by even more own celebration of Christmas. That families in the area. Participating is where the ‘Shop With a Cop’ officers, including WNTPD and program comes in, joining under- other area law enforcement, shopped privileged children with WNTPD for 14 families with a total of 46 officers and other area tribal officers, children. providing the children with money WNTPD Police Chief Glenn to shop for Christmas presents for Johnston said 32 children went their families and themselves. Local shopping but they bought for 46. donations and volunteers make this They also shopped for 21 Angel Tree program possible. Kids later in the month. WNTPD “The bar was raised beyond our had 44 volunteers, including seven William Swaim/Wyandotte Nation expectations and we as a depart- Wyandotte Nation Officers, one Wyandotte Nation officers help provide gifts for area children as part of the annual 'Shop With a Cop' program. ment are looking forward to what Park Ranger and two 2020 has in store for us,” Johnston Marshalls involved in the shopping. list of children that would see a little Allgeier Martin & Associates, The said, adding that he has approached The program doubled the number bit brighter Christmas. We were Garrette’s, Mike Melnikoff, Bank other tribal, local and state law of children the department provided amazed at the outpouring of volun- of Wyandotte, Lion’s Club, Anony- enforcement about getting involved. for last Christmas. That is the most teer support.” mous, River Bend Casino & Hotel, “The program has put us a little kids the program has provided shop- Officers would like to thank all the 7th Street Casino, Turtle Stop, Jar closer with the children that we sup- ping for since the WNTPD started volunteers for their help as well as at Turtle Stop, and WTOK. ported with this cause, and each and taking part in it. all who donated to this great cause. Also, thanks to all the officers every one of us have crossed paths “Shop With A Cop 2019 was even Donations: Wyandotte Nation Edu- that showed up to help on their off with several of those children who bigger and better than in previ- cation Department, Wyandotte Na- time, as well as Stephanie Hamilton, have nothing but good to say about ous years,” Johnston said. “As the tion Cultural Department, Title VI, Twilia Stone and Chris Turner. their experiences with us, as did donations grew, so did Pat Wilson’s T-shirts from Metal Fab, Walmart, Participating officers treated the their parents.”

Town Hall Meetings set for Northern, Southern California In 2020 the Wyandotte Nation Sacramento, Calif., Sunday, March 678-6319 or dbutterfield@wyandotte- other citizens who reside in their will hold two Town Hall meetings in 29, at 1 pm with registration open- nation.org. local areas. Each adult (18 and over) northern and southern California. ing at 12:15 pm. The meeting will be In 2013, the Wyandotte Nation enrolled Wyandotte Citizen who The first Town Hall will be held held at the Four Points by Sheraton, started a new tradition of hosting attends will receive $50 to assist in Newport Beach, Calif., Saturday, 4900 Duckhorn Drive, Sacramento, off-site Town Hall meetings to be with the expenses associated with March 28, at 10 am. Registration CA 95834. Lunch will be provided able to make connections with tribal attending the meeting. Spouses and opens at 9 am at the Hyatt Regency before the meeting beginning at citizens/members who live away family are welcome and encouraged John Wayne Airport Newport Beach, 11:30 am. There will also be a Q&A from the Tribal headquarters in to attend. 4545 MacArthur Boulevard, New- and historical session held after the Wyandotte, Okla. The postcards will give instruc- port Beach, CA 92660. Lunch will meeting. At these meetings citizens are able tions on the registration process. If be provided after the meeting. An Post cards will also be mailed to meet the Chief, Second Chief and you don’t receive a post card, but feel afternoon Q&A and historical ses- to those who live in this area. To key Wyandotte Nation staff, hear you are within traveling distance sion will also be held. RSVP: Please respond by Friday, the state of the Tribe, and make con- and would like to attend either of the The second meeting will be held in March 13 to Dana Butterfield (918) nections with family members and meetings you are welcome to do so.

Submit Your News: Submit a story idea or your latest news and photos. Email William Swaim at [email protected]. February 2020 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 7 Holiday in pictures

A few im- ages from our annual Children's Christmas Party, the Turtle Tots Christmas Program, and the Elders Christmas Dinner. Photos by William Swaim

-- Article/Pages reprinted with permission from the Ohio History Connection

'On the Back of a Turtle' is available at the Senior Turtles Gift Shop for $10 Page 12 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia February 2020 What to know about the 2020 Census By April 1, 2020, every home will lawmakers, business owners, teachers, Avoiding Scams Online graph, a U.S. Department of Commerce receive an invitation to participate in tribes and many others use to provide Phishing is a criminal act in which watermark, and an expiration date. the 2020 Census. You will have three daily services, products, and support for someone tries to get your information by • If you still have questions about options for responding: you and your community. The govern- pretending to be an entity that you trust. their identity, you can call 800-923-8282 • Online ment determines how to distribute Phishing emails often direct you to a to speak with a local Census Bureau • By phone millions of federal dollars to programs, website that looks real but is fake—and representative. • By mail grants and Native American tribes may be infected with malware. The 2020 Census marks the first time through the data collected by the U.S. It is important to know that the Census Reporting Suspected Fraud you will have the option to respond online. Census Bureau. Filling out the form Bureau WILL NOT send unsolicited emails If you suspect fraud, call 800-923-8282 You can even respond on your mobile device. truthfully and accurately remains one to request your participation in the 2020 to speak with a local Census Bureau During the 2020 census, the bureau will of the best ways to ensure the Tribe Census. Further, during the 2020 Census, representative. If it is determined that distribute only short-form surveys, making it remains vibrant and an essential part of the Census Bureau will NEVER ask for: the visitor who came to your door does more critical to know how and why to fill out the broader community. • Your Social Security number. not work for the Census Bureau, contact the form to give accurate data. • Your bank account or credit card your local police department. Counting Everyone numbers. Overall Timeline Participating in the census is required • Money or donations. 2020 Census Jobs Counting every person living in the by law, even if you recently completed In addition, the Census Bureau will not The U.S. Census Bureau is recruiting United States is a massive undertak- another survey from the Census Bureau. contact you on behalf of a political party. to fill hundreds of thousands of tem- ing, and efforts begin years in advance. A complete and accurate count is critical porary positions across the country to Here's a look at some of the key dates for you and your community, because the Staying Safe at Home assist with the 2020 Census count. For along the way: results of the 2020 Census will affect com- If someone visits your home to collect more information about 2020 jobs, please • January–September 2019: The U.S. munity funding, congressional represen- a response for the 2020 Census, you can go to 2020census.gov/jobs. Census Bureau opens 248 area census tation, and more. One quarter of Native do the following to verify their identity: If you have any questions, you may offices across the country. These offices Americans, live in areas described by the • First, check to make sure that they contact Debbie Dry (918) 678-6315 or support and manage the census takers census as ‘hard to count.’ An inaccurate have a valid ID badge, with their photo- [email protected] who work all over the country to conduct count has far-reaching effects most-often the census. carried by our most vulnerable citizens. • August 2019: Census takers begin visiting areas that have experienced a lot of Who To Count change and growth to ensure that the Cen- The 2020 Census will count everyone sus Bureau's address list is up to date. This living in the United States and the five is called address canvassing, and it helps to U.S. territories. ensure that everyone receives an invitation to participate in the 2020 Census. Who Counts as Part of Your Home? • January 2020: The Census Bureau If you are filling out the census for begins counting the population in remote your home, you should count everyone Alaska. who is living there as of April 1, 2020. • April 1, 2020: Census Day is This includes anyone who is living and observed nationwide. By this date, sleeping there most of the time. If some- every home will receive an invitation to one is staying in your home on April 1, participate in the 2020 Census. Once the and has no usual home elsewhere, you invitation arrives, you should respond for should count them in your response to your home in one of three ways: online, the 2020 Census. by phone, or by mail. When you respond to the census, you tell the Census Bureau Counting Young Children where you live as of April 1, 2020. It is important to remember to count • April 2020: Census takers begin any children who are living with you. visiting college students who live on This includes: campus, people living in senior centers, • All children who live in your home, and others who live among large groups including foster children, grandchildren, of people. Census takers also begin nieces and nephews, and the children of conducting quality check interviews to friends (even if they are living with you help ensure an accurate count. temporarily). • May 2020: The Census Bureau • Children who split their time begins visiting homes that have not between homes, if they are living with responded to the 2020 Census to make you on April 1, 2020. sure everyone is counted. • Newborn babies, even those who • December 2020: The Census are born on April 1, 2020, or who are still Bureau delivers apportionment counts to in the hospital on this date. the President and Congress as required by law. Data Protection and Privacy Program • March 31, 2021: By this date, the Law does not only require being Census Bureau will send redistricting responsible stewards of your data, it is counts to states. This information is used embedded in Census Bureau culture. to redraw legislative districts based on Strict policies and statistical safeguards population changes. help protect the confidentiality of your information. Before releasing data prod- Why We Conduct This Count ucts, the Census Bureau verifies that The census provides critical data that they meet its confidentiality standards. February 2020 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 13 Tribal Department Reports Human Resources position. softball, workout, shop, and walk her Tribal leadership with these meetings Submitted by Deana Howard, HR Jennifer has an dog. We are very fortunate to have Liz and look forward to seeing old friends Director Associate’s Degree on our team and wish her much success and making new ones. Postcards will from NEO. She in this position. be mailed to citizens who live in Cali- The Wyandotte Nation Education enjoys spending time The Wyandotte Nation Planning and fornia. However, if any citizen would Department would like to welcome watching movies Natural Resources Department is very like to attend, they are more than wel- tribal citizen, Ashley with her family, happy to welcome Brittany Crowe. Brit- come. More information can be found Buss to her new playing outside with tany is our new Environmental Tech- in the Town Hall article elsewhere in position as Early them and reading nician II. She has this newsletter. Childhood Tod- bedtime stories. We her AA from NEO Some of the events we are work- dler Program Lead BURWELL are pleased to have and her Bachelor of ing on this coming year are: April Teacher. Ashley Jennifer join the Science from MSSU. quarterly Domestic Violence Cultural has her AA in Early Education Department and wish her In her spare time, event, April 11; The Gathering of Little Childhood, Cer- much success in her new position. she enjoys spending Turtles, June 26-28; The Gathering, tificate of Mastery Jill has an Associate’s Degree and a time with her family Sept. 9–11; Pow-Wow, Sept. 11–13; and in Early Childhood Bachelor’s Degree with several years’ and animals on their Annual Meeting, Sept. 12. Be sure to Education, BA in experience with 5-acre farm. She visit the Nation’s Facebook page and BUSS Sociology and eight infants. She enjoys also loves making website for events and activities hap- years’ experience spending time with CROWE homemade gifts and pening here at the Nation. in childcare. She enjoys reading and her family, and has enjoys spending time As always, it is our pleasure and spending time with family in her spare been married for outdoors or hanging out in the barn. We honor to serve the Wyandotte people time. We are happy to have Ashley on 15 years and has are very fortunate to have Brittany join and if there is ever anything we can do our team. three children. In our team and wish her much success in for you please don’t hesitate to contact Ally Bartley has joined the Wyan- her spare time, she her new position. us. dotte Nation as a enjoys baking and Substitute in our reading. We are Winter Programs: Education Depart- pleased to have Jill Winter Clothing – Began Nov. 1 HAWKINS ment. Ally currently join the Education and ends Feb. 28 for pre-K (must be attends Wyandotte Department and wish her much success Family Services at least 3 years old and enrolled in a High School. Ally in her new position. Submitted by Dana Butterfield, structured learning program) through enjoys spending The Bearskin Fitness Center is very Family Services Director grade 12. OK, MO, AR, KS residents. time playing soft- happy to welcome Thatcher Smalley Reimbursement program or Walmart ball, crocheting, and Liz Mensink. It’s hard to believe that we’re in the gift card for $100 per student. Ap- and weightlifting. Thatcher graduated from Fairland year 2020! The Wyandotte Nation has plications, along with guidelines, are BARTLEY She gives softball- High School and is seen so many changes and has expe- available on the home page of the catching lessons, she currently attending rienced such amazing growth over the Tribal website. Please note there are loves to hunt, be outdoors, and spend NEO A&M College. past 20 years. The Tribe now has many separate applications for the gift card time with her family. We are pleased to Thatcher will serve programs available to citizens nation- and reimbursement program. If you have Ally and wish her much success in as a Fitness Front wide such as the Supplemental Health did not return your gift card receipts her new position. Desk Assistant. He card, senior energy, school supplies, for either the School Supplies or last Kamrie Bunce joins Wyandotte enjoys spending burial assistance and scholarships. year’s Winter Clothing, you will be tribal citizens Jennifer Burwell and Jill time with his friends The Family Services staff are thank- required to use the reimbursement Hawkins as Infant and family, fishing, ful to Tribal leadership for expanding program this year. Caregivers for the sports, and video these programs and look forward to the Senior Energy – This program is Wyandotte Nation. games. We are very future and being able to continue to available nationwide for citizens who SMALLEY Kamrie gradu- fortunate to have expand programs and services. are 55 and older! $100 will be paid di- ated from Miami Thatcher on our team and wish him The annual children’s Christmas rectly to the utility provider. Program High School and much success in this position. party was held Dec. 14 with 160 began Oct. 1 and ends Feb. 28. Please has several years of Liz will serve as a Front Desk Assis- children who attended along with their continue to pay you bill as normal and experience work- tant. Liz is currently attending college families. Each child received a gift the payment from the Tribe will show ing with infants. In and her field of study from Santa, enjoyed cookies and milk, as a credit when it has been applied. her spare time, she is Physical Therapy and worked on crafts. A special treat This process can take between 2-4 enjoys spending time Assistant. She this year, to help keep attendees warm weeks, especially if it’s the first time BUNCE painting with her attended Indepen- during their wait, was a food truck applying for the program. friends, watching football, and cheering dence Community with hot chocolate, coffee and donuts. APPLICATIONS FOR THE her son on at all his sporting events. college on a softball This is always such a fun event for ABOVE WINTER PROGRAMS Kamrie has two boys that are or have scholarship and then all involved. Be sure to check out the MUST BE RECEIVED OR POST been a part of the Turtle Tots Program transferred to NEO pictures in this newsletter and on our MARKED BY FEB. 28 TO BE and she is thankful for the program and for the PTA Pro- Facebook page. ELIGIBLE AND BILLS/RECEIPTS opportunity to be a part of the Educa- gram. In her spare Town Hall meetings have been set MUST BE DATED BETWEEN OCT. tion Department. We are happy to have MENSINK time, she enjoys for March 28 in Newport Beach, Calif., 1, 2019 AND FEB. 28, 2020. Kamrie join the Education Department spending time with and March 29 in Sacramento, Calif. As and wish her much success in her new her family and friends. She likes to play always, we are excited to be assisting Continued on Page 14 Page 14 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia February 2020 Tribal Department Reports

Continued from Page 13 keep children in their homes with their over) tribal citizens. Tribal citizens court accompaniment, assistance with The following are programs that run family or ensure that if there is a need who have enrolled Wyandotte Nation obtaining protective orders, relocation throughout the year for residents in for removal that federal guidelines dependents will receive an additional expenses and other basic needs. The OK, MO, AR, KS. are adhered to and the best interest of $1,000 for a maximum of $2,000 per Domestic Violence Advocate/Educa- the child is first and foremost. If your account. Please keep in mind that this tor regularly makes presentations to Applications must be received or family is in a situation where the state benefit is only for enrolled citizens of schools and organizations providing postmarked by Sept. 30: is involved, please contact one of the the Nation and is not to be used for education and awareness about these Elders Assistance – One-time Tribal Social Workers. spouses, step-children, etc. CoreSource issues. Program staff, in conjunction expense for $250 for tribal elders aged Enrollment – Aug. 15 is the dead- will be following up more closely with with the Cultural Advisory Board, also 55 and over. line to be considered for enrollment at accounts this year and asking for hosts quarterly cultural events. The Extra School Expense/Extracur- the 2019 Annual Meeting. Applica- receipts periodically. next event will be Saturday, April 11. ricular Activities – One-time pay- tions must be submitted along with an Quarterly statements will continue If you are in the area we’d love to have ment of $100 per student aged pre – K original state certified birth certificate. to be mailed by Trustmark and account you join us. (at least 3 years old) through 12th New Enrollee Benefit - Each ap- balances can be obtained at any time February is Teen Dating Violence grade. plication received prior to a child’s first via www.trustmarkbenefits.com , by Awareness Month and Lisa Arnold will Jr/Sr Benefit - $250 benefit for birthday will receive a $100 Walmart calling Trustmark at (800) 990-9058 be providing educational outreach at expenses associated with the Junior gift card and a blanket embroidered ext42086 or via the mobile app. If you and Senior years of High School. with the Tribal Turtle. have a smart phone I strongly encour- Continued on Page 15 Fuel Assistance – Programs avail- Tribal Tags – Available for tribal age you to download and use the app. able for fuel assistance: Hardship citizens who reside in Oklahoma. Pas- With the app you can see balances, – personal hardships, emergencies, senger, RV, Motorcycle and Handicap file claims, see purchases/expenses, travel for work/job interviews, etc; tags are available. Please call the see if any receipts are required and TAG REMINDERS: Medical – travel to/from doctor/dental office for prices and additional informa- scan items to see if they are an eligible appointments and pick up prescrip- tion. expenses. • Must be an enrolled citizen of the tions; Major Medical – extreme medical Supplemental Health Benefit Burial Assistance - $1,500 to be Wyandotte Nation, an Oklahoma issues (must be life threatening, ter- (Benny Card) – The company that is paid to the funeral home or to the fam- resident AND the car must be prin- minal, etc. not chronic medical issues) contracted to manage this program for ily representative if the funeral is paid cipally garaged in Oklahoma Indian that require multiple trips outside of the Nation has changed their name in full. country. the local area. from CoreSource to Trustmark. This Family Violence Prevention • Oklahoma Insurance Verification change should not cause too many is- Program: The Wyandotte Nation must accompany renewals (except Other Programs provided by the sues, but if you have problems feel free receives grants from the Office of Vio- for RV’s and Travel Trailers). Family Services Department: to give us a call or call Trustmark di- lence Against Women, Office of Victims • If you are purchasing a new/used Child Safety Seats - Each child rectly. New Wyandotte Nation citizens of Crime and the Administration for vehicle, the Tribal citizen’s name is eligible for three seats in different should have received their Benny cards Children and Families to help support MUST be on the Title at the time of sizes and can be picked up at the tribal in December along with any replace- victims of domestic violence, sexual assignment. Wyandotte Nation Tax office. ments for cards that have expired. The assault, dating violence, stalking and Commission staff CAN NOT add or Promoting Safe & Stable Fami- new cards being sent are now blue sex trafficking within a 25 mile radius delete names. lies/Indian Child Welfare – This pro- in color. All accounts were loaded on of the tribal headquarters. A victim is For questions, please call (918) 678- gram is funded through a federal grant Jan. 1, 2020 and the benefits are the not required to be Wyandotte or Native 6329 or (918) 678-6319 from the Administration for Children same as previous years with a $1,000 to receive services from this program. and Families and is designed to help per year benefit for adult (18 and Services offered include advocacy,

Start your journey today | You don’t have to be perfect to be a foster parent!

Every year thousands of children are placed in foster care. When a child who is a member or is eligible for membership in the Wy- andotte Nation is placed into foster, the ideal situation is for that child to be either with family or in another Wyandotte tribal home. Children need a safe, loving place to stay. That is all you need to start the process of becoming a foster parent. It doesn’t matter where you live, please contact the Family Services Department to start your journey today.

Our benefits administrator, Core- • New ID Card Source, is changing their brand name to • Explanation of Benefits (EOB) Trustmark Health Benefits. This name • Letters and Communications change does not affect your benefits. • Your Web Portal Between now and Jan. 1, 2020, you’ll • Mobile App start seeing the name Trustmark Health • Customer Service Benefits in places like: February 2020 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 15 Tribal Department Reports

Continued from Page 14 ICW Supervisor, Tara Gragg, (918) Education must obtain a CDIB or tribal card, local high schools and colleges. The 678-6355, [email protected] parents must be working or attending Month of April will be observed as ICW Worker, Tiffany Garner, (918) Submitted by Cristi Hudson, Edu- school, and you must live within certain Sexual Assault Awareness month. 678-6353, [email protected] cation Director counties in Oklahoma, Missouri, , Lisa has several activities planned Assistant, Leeanna Radabaugh, (918) and Arkansas. To request an application, for this month so be sure to watch 678-6329, lradabaugh@wyandotte- Kweh, or if you have any questions, you can The New Year is off to a great start email Sami Butterfield, our Child Care Facebook for any opportunities to help nation.org for us at Wyandotte Nation and we Coordinator, at sbutterfield@wyandotte- support victims of sexual assault. DV Advocate/Educator Supervisor, hope it is for you as well. The Education nation.org; or you can call her office at Lisa Arnold, (918) 678-6324, lisaar- Department is happy to announce the (918) 678-6330. Family Services Staff: [email protected] opening of the Infant and One-year old The Wyandotte Nation Library has Director, Dana Butterfield, (918) 678- DV Advocate, Cesilie Hale, (918) 678- program. The program began Jan. 7 with new hours. The hours are Monday 6319, [email protected] 3269, [email protected] five children ages 0 to 12 months, five through Thursday 8 am to 5:30 pm and children ages 12 to 24 months, and five Friday 8 am to 3:30 pm. New books and staff members. movies have recently been added with The preschool building has received a more arriving soon. Be sure to let Deb, makeover by adding the new classrooms our librarian, know if there is a certain Child Abuse Prevention Month and nursery for the Infant and One-year book or movie you would like to see old program, new cabinets for storage, added to our collection. Deb’s email ad- April is National Child Abuse ety that reduce risk and promote cubbies, paint, flooring, and expanded dress is [email protected], Prevention Month. This month and healthy development and wellbeing. the library for our education programs. and her office phone is (918) 678-6332. throughout the year, we encourage Promoting the following protective The back playground is in the process of Wyandotte Nation Scholarship Pro- all individuals and organizations to factors is one of the most effective a makeover as well and will be ready for gram and WIOA are currently process- play a role in making our communi- ways to reduce the risk of child the children to enjoy very soon. ing spring 2020 semester scholarships. ties a better place for children and abuse and neglect: With the addition of the new Infant Here are a few Wyandotte Nation families. By ensuring that parents • Nurturing and attachment and One-Year old program, we have Undergraduate Scholarship reminders: have the knowledge, skills, and • Knowledge of parenting and of added more staff members. We would • Undergraduate scholarships are resources they need to care for child and youth development like to welcome back Twylia Stone. limited to eight (8) semesters. their children, we can help prevent • Parental resilience Twylia transferred from the Title VI • Students will be placed on proba- child abuse and neglect by creating • Social connections kitchen to the preschool kitchen as the tion for failure to complete 12 hours or strong and thriving children, youth, • Concrete supports for parents lead cook. We would also like to welcome more with a minimum of a 2.0 GPA. and families in our communities. • Social and emotional compe- Tammy Sherwood, who transferred from • Students will be allowed one pro- Research shows that protective fac- tence of children the preschool kitchen to the Infant and bationary semester during the programs tors are present in healthy families. One-year old program. duration. Protective factors are conditions or Don’t be afraid to reach out for The Child Care and Development • Deadline for spring submission is attributes of individuals, families, help and support or to offer support Fund program is accepting new ap- Feb. 15. communities, or the larger soci- for others! plications for families that are seeking • Deadline for fall submission is May 1. childcare assistance. We would be happy • The Wyandotte Nation Education to assist in getting an application to you Department also oversees the WIOA and answer any questions you may have. To be eligible for the Wyandotte Nation CCDF program, a household member Continued on Page 16 Wyandotte Nation Family Services Programs Dates to Remember

Elder’s Assistance: Oct. 1 – Sept. 30 Senior Energy - Winter: Oct. 1 – Feb. 28 Senior Energy - Summer: July 1 – Sept. 30 LIHEAP - (if available) Winter: Dec. 1 – Feb. 28 LIHEAP - (if available) Summer: July 1 – Sept. 30 School Supplies: July 1 – Sept. 30 Children’s Winter Clothing: Nov. 1 – Feb. 28 Extracurricular Activities: Oct. 1 – Sept. 30 Jr./Sr. High School Assistance: Oct. 1 – Sept. 30 Wyandotte Nation Annual Meeting: Sept. 12 Children’s Christmas Party: Dec. 12 (Second Saturday of September each year) Note: All applications must be in our office or post marked on or before the last day of the program. Page 16 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia February 2020 Tribal Department Reports Continued from Page 15 Tribal Police Department Tribal Heritage program. These funds are available to assist members of federally recognized Submitted by Glenn Johnston, Chief of Police Submitted by Sherri Clemons, tribes residing in Crawford and Chero- Tribal Heritage Director kee Counties in Southeast Kansas or We have a few upcoming events. The Barry, Barton, Dade, Jasper, Lawrence, National Crime Victims’ Rights Week Kweh, kweh! Happy New Year! Newton and McDonald Counties in takes place April 19-25. In addition, we The Cultural Center is gearing up for Southwest Missouri. will be holding a Pancake Breakfast some fun times this coming year. The WIOA eligibility requirements include: Saturday, March 14, from 7:30 to 11:30 am Cultural Committee is making plans for • You must be Native America, in the Title VI Building (64700, E. Hwy 60 Little Turtles Kids Camp June 26-28. Alaska Native, or Native Hawaiian in Wyandotte). See the flyer in this issue The Lacrosse camp is held in conjunc- • Possess a C.D.I.B. card for more information. Proceeds from the tion with the Kids Camp. The Lacrosse • Member of a federally recognized tribe event go to support our ‘Shop With a Cop’ Camp is Tuesday, June 23 through • Must be a resident of the service program. area listed above Friday, June 26 the same week. Last We shopped for 14 families with a total year coaches and players from Spring- To obtain a scholarship application of 46 children during ‘Shop With a Cop’ last December. Thirty-two children field, Mo., worked with the kids, and that Wyandotte Nation offers, you can went shopping but we bought for 46. We also shopped for 21 Angel Tree Kids they had an outstanding week. email your request or any questions later in the month. We had 44 volunteers, seven Wyandotte Nation Officers, If you know of a boy or girl who would that you may have to Evan Hotulke, one Park Ranger and two Quapaw Marshalls involved in the shopping. be interested in learning more about our Education Specialist at ehotulke@ The following were sponsors: Lions Club, Bank of Wyandotte, WTOK, the game, we have a chance to do some wyandotte-nation.org; or by calling his Allgeier – Martin, Education Department, Tribal Heritage Department, River offseason practices and maybe get a office at (918) 678-6331. Bend Casino & Hotel, 7th Street Casino, Title VI, Turtle Stop, Mike Meinikoff, team going. Contact Teresa Wilson at We are available to assist you with Crossland Construction, The Garrettes, and Metal Fab of Miami. the application process in any of our programs and we look forward to work- Continued on Page 17 ing with you soon.

Department Contacts: Our Easter Party is Thursday, April Cristi Hudson – Education Director, 9, during the noon hour. Prizes will be (918) 678-6334 or chudson@wyandotte- given for the prettiest bonnet, funniest nation.org bonnet and men’s leg contest. We will Sami Butterfield – Childcare Co- have an Easter Egg Hunt and prizes ordinator – CCDF, (918) 678-6330 or given to the one that finds the prize egg [email protected] and one that finds the most eggs. Lindsay Cooper – Early Childhood Mother’s Day Dinner will be held Program Coordinator, (918) 678-3267 or Thursday, May 7. [email protected] If anyone is in need of food, we col- Evan Hotulke—Education Specialist, laborate with area tribes and the Tulsa (918) 678-6331 or ehotulke@wyandotte- Foodbank to host a Food Distribution nation.org at the Highwinds Casino parking lot on the third Thursday of each month from 11 am to Noon. Each Title VI program has tickets to distribute to those in need. Participants will need to get their tickets Elder Services prior to the distribution. Submitted by Brenda House, Elder CAREGIVER Services Director The Caregiver Support Group meets the first Thursday of each month in the The Elder Services Department is Artie Nesvold Community Center (Title happy to welcome Robyn Beaty to our VI) Safe Room beginning at 10:30 am. Food Service Team. Robyn began her This group is for all current and former tenure with the Wyandotte Nation in caregivers. It is also for grandparents the Education Department Kitchen. raising grandchildren. She enjoys spending time on her farm It is always a pleasure serving the Wy- with her husband Charlie and her three andotte Nation citizens. Please feel free grandchildren. to call or come by and visit us anytime. Our Valentine Party is Thursday, Feb. 13, during the noon hour. Prizes will be Department Contacts: given to the Oldest Valentine, Couple Brenda House, Elder Services Director, married the longest, the Newly Weds, (918) 678-6327. and the one that has been married the Stephanie Hamilton, Food Service most times and is willing to admit it. Team Supervisor, (918) 678-6328, (Of- The Senior Turtles Gift Shop will be fice) 6390 having their 4th Annual Flower and Seth Higginbotham, Chris Rhodes Candy sale in the Artie Nesvold Com- and Robyn Beaty, Food Service Team munity Center (Title VI) Safe Room Feb. Members (918) 678-6328 13-14. (See Advertisement) Menu, (918) 678-6326 February 2020 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 17 Tribal Department Reports

Continued from Page 16 acute infectious disease; A non-Indian under 19 years the Cultural Center, (918) 678-6318. old who is an adopted child, stepchild, foster child, legal River Bend Hotel & Casino has blocked off 15 ward or orphan of an eligible Indian under specific rooms for Little Turtles at a rate of $59 for the circumstances. weekend. Make your reservations soon (918)-678- 3. Patient must reside within the Bearskin Health 4946. Clinic 12 county Purchased/Referred Care service area. The Gathering is Sept. 9-11 with Pow-Wow Out-Of-State residents are not eligible for Pur- starting Sept. 11-13. This is also a very busy time, chased/Referred Care funds. so reserving your room now is wise. PURCHASED/REFERRED CARE IS A PAYOR We have a few other events coming up: OF LAST RESORT! All other resources to pay • May 25, 10 am, we will have a Memorial for medical care, such as Medicare, Medicaid, VA, service honoring a veteran for their unselfish act Worker’s Comp, Title 19, Sooner Care, automobile for our freedom. All are welcome. insurance, and/or group health insurance, including • July 2, starting around 7 pm, Fireworks dis- IHS facilities must be utilized first, when applicable. play. Vendors, live music and beautiful fireworks. Eligibility or ineligibility documentation will be Bring your chairs and come enjoy. No personal required at a minimum of once annually or with each fireworks please. This keeps everyone safe. change of employment, income or referral. I hope to see all of you at these events. As per the guidelines of the Public Health Service Code of Federal Regulations, Purchased/Referred Care (PRC) is a payor of last resort. All other resources to Health pay for medical care, including IHS facilities must be utilized first, when applicable. Alternate resources --Submitted by Kelly Friend, Director of were available. Health Services [Code of Federal Regulations] [Title 42, Volume 1] [Revised as of October 1, 2007] From the U.S. Bearskin Health Clinic Purchased/Referred Care is Government Printing Office via GPO Access [CITE: a federally funded program to assist eligible patients 42CFR136.61] financially with specialized care that is not directly [Page 738] available from the Bearskin Health Clinic. TITLE 42--PUBLIC HEALTH ASSISTANCE DEPENDS ON ELIGIBILITY, CHAPTER I--PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE, RESIDENCE, MEDICAL PRIORITIES, ALTER- DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SER- NATE RESOURCES, AND AVAILABILITY OF VICES FUNDING. PART 136_INDIAN HEALTH--Table of Contents The Bearskin Health Clinic Purchased/Referred Subpart G_Residual Status Care program also contracts with specialty care Sec. 136.61 Payor of last resort. physicians, hospitals, diagnostic groups and other (a) The Indian Health Service is the payor of last health care providers to treat our patients at prear- resort for persons defined as eligible for contract health ranged fees. services under the regulations in this part, notwith- The Purchased/Referred Care Program is funded standing any State or local law or regulation to the annually with federal funds by the Department of contrary. Health and Human Services (DHHS). Medical pri- (b) Accordingly, the Indian Health Service will not orities have been established for determining which be responsible for or authorize payment for contract referrals can be authorized for payment, dependent health services to the extent that: upon the availability of funds. (1) The Indian is eligible for alternate resources, as ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR defined in paragraph (c) of this section, or BEARSKIN HEALTH CLINIC PURCHASED/ (2) The Indian would be eligible for alternate REFERRED CARE resources if he or she were to apply for them, or 1. Must be eligible for direct patient care services (3) The Indian would be eligible for alternate provided by Bearskin Health Clinic contracted facili- resources under State or local law or regulation but for ties and/or an IHS facility. An individual is eligible if the Indian's eligibility for contract health services, or they are of Indian descent and a member of the Wy- other health services, from the Indian Health Service andotte Nation or Eastern Tribe. Patient or Indian Health Service funded programs. must also have an established medical health record (c) Alternate resources means health care resources at Bearskin Health Clinic and reside within the other than those of the Indian Health Service. Such Purchased/Referred Care Delivery Area (PRCDA). resources include health care providers and institu- 2. Non-Indians may be eligible in these situations: tions, and health care programs for the payment of A non-Indian woman who is pregnant with an eligible health services including but not limited to programs Indian’s child through pregnancy and postpartum; A under titles XVIII or XIX of the Social Security Act non-Indian member of an eligible Indian’s household (i.e., Medicare, Medicaid), State or local health care who resides within the Purchased/Referred Care programs, and private insurance. service area is eligible for Purchased/Referred Care if the Medical Officer in charge determines that services are necessary to control a public health hazard or an Continued on Page 18 Page 18 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia February 2020 Tribal Department Reports Important Housing

Submitted by Kathy DeWeese, Wyandotte Nation Housing has re- and proper sanitation facilities for Numbers Housing Director ceived a competitive grant. This was a our tribal families. These services nationwide competition with only 200 include drilling wells, installing sep- Police Department Nahasda (Native American Hous- tribes receiving the grants. This grant tic systems, rural water hook-ups, Glenn Johnston (918) 678-6365 ing and Self-Determination Act) is the will build three homeownership units, and connections to city water and [email protected] program governed by the Department and two family duplex rental units. sewer. There are no income guide- of Housing and Urban Development The Heritage Acres Community lines. Tribal members must reside (HUD). Each year a Housing Plan Center is available for rent. The cost in the following counties: Craig; Family Services / Enrollment / Tags must be submitted and approved is $50 for tribal members and $75 for Creek; Delaware; Mayes; Nowata; Dana Butterfield (918) 678-6319 by HUD. This plan provides for the non-tribal. There is also a $25 deposit, Okfuskee; Okmulgee; Ottawa; Rog- [email protected] upkeep of Nahasda units, rental as- which is returned if the building is left ers; Tulsa; Wagoner; Washington. Leeanna Radabaugh, (918) 678-6329, lrada- sistance to college students and down clean. Several dates are already filled [email protected] payment assistance, as well as the day- for next year. If you are interested in Department Contacts: Family Violence Program to-day activities of the Department. renting, it is best to reserve early. Kathy DeWeese-Housing Director Lisa Arnold, (918) 678-6324, lisaarnold@ If you are purchasing a home Before we know it, it will be spring. Don Graham- Housing Specialist wyandotte-nation.org; Cesilie Hale, (918) 678- within a 50-mile radius of Wyandotte, The Splashpad will be opening May18. Paul Parker- Project Coordinator 3269, [email protected] and are a first time homebuyer, let Levi Griffin- Project Coordinator Tribal Social Workers us see if we can help you with down IHS -121 Program Larry Hamilton- Residential Tara Gragg (918) 678-6355 payment assistance. The participant This program is funded through Maintenance Technician [email protected] must meet income guidelines and be the Department of Health & Human Drew Lankford-Residential Main- Tiffany Garner (918) 678-6353 eligible for a conventional loan. Services, to ensure safe drinking water tenance Technician [email protected]

Continued from Page 17 Human Resources ment (THIS DOES NOT GUARANTEE at the Bearskin Health Clinic is available Deana Howard (918) 678-6320 [64 FR 58322, Oct. 28, 1999] PAYMENT. The Purchased/Referred to help with any scheduling and/or ques- [email protected] The priority system helps patients have Care Committee will follow the medical tions regarding Purchased/Referred Care. Nutrition & Caregiver Services equal opportunity for specialty services priorities and make determination). Brenda House (918) 678-6327 and to make sure the funds are used to • Those individuals over the age of [email protected] Audiology, Dental & Optometry give the best possible benefits. Education / Library / Child Care 55 years old have up to 30 days to call 1. Tribal citizens must be seen by Cristi Hudson (918) 678-6334 When services are not available at Bear- in emergency room visit. (THIS DOES a physician at Bearskin Healthcare & [email protected] skin Health Clinic and contracted facilities NOT GUARANTEE PAYMENT. The Wellness Center once every three years Tribal Heritage or at an IHS facility where the patient regu- Purchased/Referred Care Committee will to maintain an updated medical record. Sherri Clemons (918) 678-6344 larly receives care, a physician will initiate a follow the medical priorities and make If patient has not been seen in the clinic [email protected] referral to a contract specialty provider. determination). within the last three years, they will not Environmental / Planning / Development The Purchased/Referred Care Specialist be eligible for these benefits until appoint- Christen Lee (918) 678-6341 at the Bearskin Health Clinic prepares all REFERRAL PROCESS: ment is completed. Information needed [email protected] referrals to submit weekly for the Pur- 1. The patient must be seen by a at visit includes: tribal membership card, Housing chased/Referred Care Review Committee. provider at Bearskin Health Clinic. insurance card (if available), social security Kathy DeWeese (918) 678-6339 Referrals from the Bearskin Health Clinic 2. If a referral is necessary, the Nurse/ card, driver’s license and medical history [email protected] are reviewed and categorized in accor- Provider will direct referral to the Pur- form. dance with approved medical priorities. chased/Referred Care office. 2. All appointments must have prior If a referral is denied, the patient and/ 3. Purchased/Referred Care Specialist authorization with the providing facility. Bearskin Healthcare & or provider have 30 days from the date will counsel regarding eligibility, alternate Failure to do so is subject to declination Wellness Center the denial letter is received to appeal for resources such as Medicare, Medicaid, of payment for services rendered. Please Kelly Friend (918) 678-3259 reconsideration. Appeal should be made insurance, VA, Workman’s Comp, Sooner provide a minimum of three business [email protected] in writing and mailed to: Clinic Appointments Care, and Title 19, and schedule the ap- days’ notice on appointments regarding Dee Dee Clapp (918) 678-3228 Attn: Kelly Friend, Administrator pointment, if necessary. referrals to ensure that proper protocol can [email protected] Bearskin Health Clinic 4. Patient will need a referral from be followed in sending documentation to Dental / Vision One Turtle Drive Bearskin Health Clinic for each additional providers. Ashley Crawford, (918) 678-3221, Wyandotte, OK 74370 procedure, test, follow-up exams, and or 3. All treatments must be pre-autho- [email protected] hospitalization. It is the patient’s respon- rized by Bearskin Healthcare. It is the Pharmacy (call-in only) EMERGENCY CALL-IN PROCE- sibility to contact the Purchased/Referred patient’s responsibility to verify that treat- (918) 678-3244 DURES: Care Specialist each time! ment plans have been authorized, before Fitness Center Call-ins are to be reported to the 5. If a patient schedules or reschedules treatment is rendered. Sharon Bartley (918) 678-3231 Bearskin Health Clinic in Wyandotte, an appointment, without proper Pur- 4. In the event an appointment must [email protected] Oklahoma, (918) 678-3227. chased/Referred Care authorization, the be cancelled or rescheduled, Bearskin Contract Health • This call should be made when a patient will be responsible for payment. Healthcare should be notified. Habitual Bridget Hart (918) 678-3227 patient has an emergency and is unable to 6. If you receive a bill from the facility failure to show for a scheduled appoint- [email protected] go to Bearskin Health Clinic or the nearest or physician we have scheduled you with, ment may result in revocation of dental Diabetes Clinic IHS facility. The patient must call the you have 10 days to provide Bearskin services for one fiscal year. Habitual is Donna Spaulding (918) 678-3258 Purchased/Referred Care office within 72 Clinic with the bill or you may be denied. defined as failure to call or attend three [email protected] hours after the beginning of the treat- The Purchased/Referred Care Specialist consecutive appointments. February 2020 www.wyandotte-nation.org Page 19 Tribal Department Reports

Planning & Natural est employee, Brittany Crowe. Brittany will assist other department staff in Resources water sampling, recycling duties and environmental education events. Submitted by Christen Lee, Envi- Department staff continues to sample ronmental & Planning Director eight ambient water sites on area lakes Wyandotte Nation’s mission is, “To and streams on a monthly basis. Staff advance the standard of living of the also provides private drinking water Tribe…and to promote in any other way sampling within a fifty-mile radius of the general welfare of the Indians of the Wyandotte Nation offices. Wyandotte Nation.” To carry this mis- Environmental Staff are working sion forward in our tribal community, with contractors to complete the Bear- the Planning and Natural Resources skin Fitness Center Remodel and Well Department provide a variety of servic- House #1 Improvement Project. We es including, but not limited to, private anticipate this project will be complete well drinking water sampling and septic before the end of March. The State Line assessments for private home owners. Water Project was sent out for contrac- We also encourage and provide a place tor bid in late December and early to recycle. Lost Creek Recycling Center January. This project will be awarded is open to the community and surround- during the next quarter. ing area Monday through Thursday Staff also continues to work on rental from 8 am to 4:30 pm and 8 am to 3:30 properties, trust land leases and Fee-to- pm on Friday. The facility can accept trust projects. the following materials: paper, plastic, cardboard, tin and aluminum. UPCOMING EVENTS • Northeast Oklahoma Tribal Resil- On Oct. 25, the Department pro- ience Workshop, Quapaw Nation, vided education information during Feb. 4-5 Bearskin’s Health and Wellness Fair • Tire Collection Event, Lost Creek regarding private drinking water wells, Recycle Center, May 4-8 septic systems, and other environmen- • 13th Annual Environmental Festival, States. Selecting grants is based upon Wilson, [email protected] tal issues. Heritage Acres Park, May 8 community and departmental needs Environmental Technician 2 Brittany Our department also participated in as well as the availability of funding Crowe, [email protected] the Tribal Preschool Halloween Carni- The Planning and Natural Re- opportunities. A summary of approved Recycling Center Coordinator John val with a bean bag toss. sources Department is also dedicated and pending applications can be seen in Quick, [email protected] The weather for October was beauti- to researching and applying for federal, the tables above. Land Management Technician Robby ful with a hint of cool weather in the state, and foundation grants to ben- Graham, [email protected] night air. The Neosho Jr. High, stu- efit the Tribe and tribal community. Department Contacts: Water Utilities Operator Braulio, dents from the Wyandotte Public School Grants often serve the 1,470 citizens Director Christen Lee, clee@wyan- Ramirez bramirez@wyandotte-nation. students toured our Lost Creek Recycle residing in the 641 households within a dotte-nation.org org Center in late October. The students 50-mile radius of tribal headquarters; Environmental Program Manager Grant Writer 1 Debbie Dry, ddry@ learned the importance of recycling and however, it is the department’s desire Kathleen Welch, kwelch@wyandotte- wyandotte-nation.org were shown the day-to-day process. to serve and positively affect all 6,609 nation.org Grant Writer 2 Michael Lowery, Lost Creek Recycle Center held a tire Wyandotte citizens across the United Environmental Technician 1 Janice [email protected] collection event in early November. We collected 360 tires, which were collected by a Qualified Applicant for Collection & Transportation from Bristow, Okla. These tires will be refined and reused for other projects. On Nov. 12, Kathleen Welch attended the Tribal Environmental Coalition of Oklahoma (TECO) Meeting in Stroud, Okla. At this meeting, elections were held for the Regional Tribal Operations Committee (RTOC) and Wyandotte Na- tion as voted to retain their seat on the RTOC Board of Members. On Nov. 19-20, Christen Lee and Kathleen Welch attended the Tribal Caucus and RTOC Meeting in Catoosa, OK. Christmas cheer invaded our hearts in December as we welcomed our new- Page 20 Wyandotte Nation / Gyah'-wish Atak-ia February 2020 Tribal Citizen & Community News

New Tribal Citizen Enrollment Tribal citizen achieves Eagle Scout rank Wyandotte tribal citizen Ricky Adams NOTE: The following names of new citizens were inadvertently omitted from the November achieved Eagle rank in May 2019. Re- newsletter. Here are the rest of the new tribal citizens: cently, the Scouts recognized Ricky during his Eagle Court of Honor, held Nov. 2, Battle, Cheyna Christine Elbert, Tracie Lynn 2019. Battle, Montgomery Sloan Enyart, Erik Layne Ricky has always been a hard worker Brown, Allison Colleen Montgomery, Donna Jean and this was no different. He joined scouts Brown, Amanda Sue Mosby, Hailey Rena when he was 10 and worked hard to move Brown, Collins Taylor Nesvold, Kecia Rena through the ranks. He was senior patrol Brown, Landon Scott Onstott, Elliot Jayce leader twice as well as assistant to the Brown, Nolan Timothy Onstott, Jill M Senior Patrol leader. Scouting has helped Cloninger, Easton Duke Onstott, Thayer Brooks him to become a leader in so many aspects Cloninger, Myla Jade Onstott, Troy Jace of his life including within his marching Cloninger, Natalie Michelle Sams, Angela Dawn band, at work and his scout troop. He has Crouch, Isaac Cooper Sams, Lindsey Dawn made some lifelong friendships. He plans Crouch, Lafonda Gail Sams, Parker Macauley to continue as an adult leader within his Crouch, Theran Cade Sams, Peter Mackenzie troop and be there for the next generation Douthit, Morgan Saige Stork, Abigail Lane of scouts. His family is very proud of him. Elbert, Addison Blake Stork, Jacob Michael Elbert, Brock Michael Stork, Logan Dale Elbert, Christopher Michael Stork, Rhonda Renee Elbert, Madilyn Grace Weisinger, Lucas Dale Elbert, Marissa Ryann Winkler, Taylor Irene Elbert, Meadow Brooke Young, Emory Lyn OBITUARY Elbert, Miranda Lynne Young, Kristen Linn Elbert, Timothy Scott Yousey, Leslie Lynn Jacob Franklin Fischer April 4, 1938 – November 30, 2019

Jacob “Jake” Franklin Fischer, 81, died November 30, 2019 at Claremore, Okla- homa. The son of Benjamin and Ruth Long Fischer was born on April 4, 1938 in Pawnee, Oklahoma. Following graduation from Pawnee High School, Jake com- pleted an Associate of Science, Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, and Doctor of Education at Oklahoma State University. While in Colorado he taught for Denver Public Schools, Jefferson County Public Schools and Metropolitan State College. In Oklahoma he taught for Okmulgee Public Schools and Central Area Vo-Tech in Dr- umright. After 30 years working as a teacher and administrator in public education, Jake retired January 3, 1995. He was preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include his wife of 57 years, Ruth, of the home; one daughter, Carol Lynn McMurtrey and husband Robert of Carl Junction, Missouri; one son, John Edward Fischer and wife Gerlynnda of Eureka, Missouri, five grandchildren, Hailey Nicole McMurtrey, Tanner Wayne McMurtrey, Jodi Gabrielle Fischer, Jessica Grace Fischer and Jackelyn Greer Fischer. Services were held Saturday, December 7, 2019, at Eshelman Memorial Chapel and internment was at Highland Cemetery in Pawnee, Oklahoma. Pallbearers were John Fischer, Robert McMurtrey, Tanner McMurtrey and Jack Smith.

Invitation to Youth Movement Event at OSU On behalf of Oklahoma State Athletics, we would like to cordially invite you to the 6th Annual Youth Movement Event presented by the OSU Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) and , with sponsorship from the Native Ameri- can Students Association (NASA), Orange and Black Gives Back, Businesses, CSN, Endodontic Associates, and Nike N7. Students in grades 3rd-8th can participate in a field day that incorporates both Native American culture and fitness activities. Event activities include: team sports, traditional Native games, guest speakers, performers and much more. The event will take place Monday, March 30, in Boone Pickens Stadium at Oklahoma State Univer- sity. Limited spaces are available, so please sign up now to save your spot. The goal of the event is to bring Native American youth together from across the state to celebrate culture and promote a healthy active lifestyle. N7 Youth Movement Field Day: Students Grades 3rd- 8th, Tuesday, March 30, 8 am - 1:45 pm, Oklahoma State University (Boone Pickens Stadium) Wyandotte Nation will provide transportation to the event for participants. Please contact Kelly Friend at (918) 678-3259 or email [email protected] to secure a spot for your student before Feb. 18.