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THE KAYENTA

BONE THUGS N HARMONY SHOW THE NEWSPAPER OF THE KAYENTA TOWNSHIP AND COMMUNITY Robberies and Shootings Page 4 Page 9 TODAYA Free Publication from the Kayenta Township

Winter 2010 WWW.KAYENTATOWNSHIP.NET Kayenta Family Healing Alliance Kayenta To Tell It’s Centennial History Looks To The Future In “Images of America” Book Series By Malcolm Benally By Malcom Benally KAYENTA, AZ - The Kayenta Fam- KAYENTA, AZ – The Kayenta ily Healing Alliance (KFHA) and Township is beginning planning the Process Serving Taskforce held a and organizing stages for the 100th meeting at the Hampton Inn Confer- Centennial of Kayenta, 2010, ence Room on Tuesday, November most of the events and activities 24, 2009 from 10 am to 1 pm. The will be held in conjunction with the group holds its monthly meetings on coming 4th of July festivities. Book the third Thursday of each month, authors, Harvey Leake and Carolyn usually at the Kayenta Baptist Davis, will be working with Arcadia Church behind Amigos Café, unless publishing’s (www.arcadiapublish- it is announced and noted otherwise. ing.com) “Images of America” book series to publish a book about the the area through time, and early new places, and events that define the com- The KFHA met with its core group community of Kayenta. building scenes. In fact, already on file munity. Harvey Leake, the lead author which consists mainly of service is sepia a tone black and white photo of the book is the great grandson of providers within the local Kayenta A significant portion of the book will of President , who John and Louisa Wetherill. Service Unit, such as the Tohden- cover the years 1910 to 1940 when visited Kayenta in 1913 with his sons nashai Shelter Home, Public Safety, John and Louisa Wetherill made their before going on a horseback expedi- “We are lacking coverage of the period Social Services, the Health Nursing home (in and Kay- tion guided by the Wetherills to following the early 1940s, and are in- Program, and the Ama Doo Alchini enta), opened up the Kayenta Trading Mountain and Rainbow Bridge. terested in locating sources of images Bighan, Inc. (ADABI) program Post, and thus began the develop- from that era in Kayenta’s history,” he from Chinle, AZ. Rebecca Joe, TSH ment of the town of Kayenta, AZ and Arcadia Publishing, the publishing writes in an email. “We would also Victim Advocate, facilitated the its surrounding areas. In the later house that is best known for its popu- welcome suggestions regarding topics meeting. years, from the 1950s to present, the lar “Images of America” series, has to include [regarding the growth of book proposes to cover the transition chronicled the history of communities Kayenta] After going through the opening that the town of Kayenta has made from Bangor, Maine to Manhattan formalities for the meeting, Ms. Joe through time. Beach, California. Arcadia will be the ” Examples, from the more recent highlighted some of the achieve- press that will publish the as-yet- un- period, would require the involvement ments of the Tohdennashai Shelter of Kayenta residents, community lead- Through suggestions from Harvey titled book on Kayenta. With more Home in the past three months. She ers, people in the military, construction Leake, the Kayenta book project than two hundred vintage black-and- said, “The month of October was projects, and community events, such would like to collect photos from the white photographs, each title celebrates very busy for everyone and we have as the annual 4th of July and community showing Navajo life- a town or region, bringing to life the festivities. achieved a lot during this month in styles, people of interest who visited Continued on page 3 raising awareness about domestic people, violence. We hosted a vigil, a play Kayenta Township Introduces Five New Business Site Leasing Committee Members “This House of My Pain” (by Na- vajo comedian Ernest David Tsosie By Malcom Benally 30 potential businesses that are cur- the first Tuesday of each month. III), several marches, and a commu- KAYENTA, AZ - The Kayenta Town- rently interested and have inquired This way, their report can be ready nity luncheon.” The most success- ship Business Site Leasing Committee about a business site in Kayenta, AZ. when the Kayenta Township Com- ful of all, she said, was the October recently held its first meeting to choose mission holds its monthly Town Hall 10, 2009 NPBR Bullriding Event Committee officers and set up its first In an effort to provide detailed re- on the second Monday each month. in Kayenta where professional bull meeting dates on Wednesday, Decem- ports monthly to the Kayenta Town- fighters lead by Brandon Lincoln, ber 16, 2009 at 2:00 pm. Economic ship Commission, the Business Site Continued on page 4 and the bull riders wore pink and Development Director Ed Whitewater Leasing Committee decided they Continued on page 5 briefed the new committee on at least will hold their monthly meeting on 2 From The Desk of Commissioner Richard Mike Life is actually different when the on the reservation is not a big con- , , Crazy average citizen of Kayenta is respon- cern of the Council. Horse, put their lives on sible for waste management in Kay- Getting more federal funds is. We the line fighting the U.S. Calvary in enta, crime in Kayenta, pan-handlers don’t have to live off of government the face of modern weapons like the bothering the tourists, the direction hand outs. That’s why the people of Gatlin Gun, Canons, repeating rifles, of their children’s education, and Kayenta need their own local gov- Winchesters, and they faced certain they will have access to many more ernment. The Navajo Nation Coun- death using mainly bows and ar- choices like in other prosperous cil is not going to lead the people of rows at first. To me, the reason these town in a free society. Kayenta to self-sufficiency. warriors fought and put their lives on the line against improbable odds The government cannot make real The Kayenta Township and its citizens, we need the freedom to - is because every man wants to be economic development because real make our own rules within the city free. Back then, no one wanted to be development happens in the minds limits of Kayenta. I think once cloistered on an . of ordinary people. It happens by we’re given the freedom to control These warriors wanted to master them and with them. Governments their own destiny. They wanted to our own town and our local re- on the other hand, have to set the be masters of their own lands. If we can get a 99-year lease from sources, mainly with the ability to social structures, institutions, incen- give 99-year business site leases. I the , then we tives systems which are able to pro- Today, most jobs on the reserva- believe that we can start tackling can get some of our freedom back. duce developmental attitudes, which tion are government jobs. You can I ran for Commissioner because I city problems before they emerge. when supplemented with aptitudes, work for NTUA, the public school want to fight for this shot at freedom Furthermore, I think Kayenta will such as literacy, technical skills, system, reservation community that we were given. have the largest and best Vocational schools, NHA, at the dialysis center, knowledge and training; this can Education School in the State of the Navajo Police Department or for I’ve been fortunate to have deep produce true economic development. Arizona. We’ll have a huge Adult the Indian Health Services. All these learning experiences when I travel and Juvenile Detention Center, and jobs are provided by the U.S. gov- abroad. Britain obtained a 99-year Being unemployed is hard on peo- perhaps we can even rent out land in ernment. If these offices shut down, lease from the Chinese government ple. Studies show that problems like the middle of nowhere for a Federal the clients, the administration, and over a hundred years ago. With suicides, teen pregnancy, alcoholism, Prison. Our Kayenta Courts will be the employees; they would all suffer that 99-year lease, Hong Kong and child abuse, drugs, is tied to unem- the first ever on an Indian reserva- and it would affect daily Navajo life. its surrounding areas has become a ployment. Unemployment tion to enforce property laws. I can guarantee that this scenario multi-billion dollar commerce. In wouldn’t even make a single dent in Banff, Canada the Canadian Na- Arizona’s economy. Life would go tional Park Service owns all the on. land. The City of Banff has home site leases and business site leases Whether you are a hard working em- like we do on the Navajo reserva- ployee or not the government makes tion. The town is about half the size Indians in all sectors of the Reserva- of Flagstaff, AZ, and it has a multi- tion economy dependent on Federal billion dollar commerce. The City dollars. Yet, it seems the simple of Banff leases the land from the rule here in America is that freedom Canadian National Park Service. comes to you only from private land ownership. The hard truth is, the In about five more years, I can see Navajo reservation breeds depen- the Kayenta Township start assign- dency because the Indians don’t own ing a Possessory Interest Tax (PIT) the land they live on. giving value to Navajo home site leases similar to the small Canadian Indian Law says that a “trusteeship” town of Banff. Right now, a home basically means that Indians do not site in Kayenta is worth one dollar a own the land. year for 65-years. And as it is right now, when there is a school bond The Kayenta Township concept election, the Navajo people always gives us a shot at freedom. And vote “yes” because Peabody Coal freedom is not cheap. Freedom Company will have to pay for it. means that you have to pay your With a home site possessory interest own way. You have to make really tax, the people of Kayenta will have The Kayenta Township hard decisions that affect your home, to pay for the school bond. Now, the P.O. Box 1490 your children, the Tribe, panhandlers people of Kayenta will have to think Kayenta, AZ 86033 at the grocery store, paying for your long and hard before every school own education, health, and well- bond election because they will have (928) 697-8451 being. to pay for it. www.kayentatownship.net 3

Two Navajo women and children Pinon Picking near Black Mesa, circa 1935-1940s

A Navajo child taking care of flock at sheep dipping event near Diversion Dam, circa 1935-1940s Continued from page 1 These cultural issues are critical Examples, from the more recent pe- in how the community of Kayenta riod, would require the involvement now has an opportunity- and can of Kayenta residents, community come together- to discuss its history, leaders, people in the military, con- which includes: economic growth struction projects, and community in Kayenta, the legacy of the Monu- events, such as the annual 4th of July ment Valley Mustangs (high school rodeo and festivities. sports), the coming/going of Pea- body Coal Company, the For more than three hundred years, town as the Gateway to Monument the Navajo people have been known Valley, and even the concept of the as a pastoral people who also had Kayenta Township today. What does cornfields. Then with the introduc- the community see as important in tion of the horse, the Navajo became telling the history of Kayenta? a known military force that was able Two Navajo women and child cooking outside in summer shade, circa to hold back the , Spanish, Kayenta, by and large, has come a 1935-1940s and even the U.S. Calvary in pre- long way. The Kayenta book project colonial times. Throughout time, the offers an opportunity to tell the story Navajo have been fortunate to hold of the community and the Navajo on to their language and maintain a past on Navajo terms. Through the significant portion of their cultural months of November, December and ties despite the process of assimila- onto the coming year, the Kayenta tion that has taken its course. Township would like to form a small group of local leaders, storytellers, In Reclaiming Diné History, Dr. Jen- teachers, parents, elders, scholars, nifer Denetdale, a Navajo historian counselors, and even students to take reflects, “The Navajo Nation shares part in retelling the history of Kay- the concerns of other indigenous na- enta. tions about the loss of language and the erosion of tribal traditions even For more information, please con- as we look to our own traditions for tact mbenally@kayentatownship. answers to issues and problems. …In net. We are asking for historical many sectors of our society, Navajo photographs, stories, documentation parents, teachers, scholars, counsel- of past notable events, and historical ors, Navajo Nation employees, and materials that can be used to con- others are committed to conveying vey an accurate history of Kayenta, Navajo family butchers a sheep and gets ready to eat lunch at a sheep our traditions to the next generation.” Arizona. dipping event near Diversion Dam, circa 1935-1040s 4 Continued from page 1 tors consisting of the Town Manager, BONE THUGS N HARMONY SCHEDULED TO The BSL Committee agreed that Finance Director, and Community their work from this point on cre- Development Director along with PERFORM IN KAYENTA ates a new window of opportunity two community members. The five for the Kayenta community. “This member BSL committee will review is a chance for us as a community to and vote on approving business site help provide some direction. Our in- leases. terest here is the same as the Navajo Nation’s interest,” said Commit- tee Chair Ken Whitehair, “when it “There are already four businesses comes to collecting taxes and in- that are pushing to start establishing creasing our tax base, we are directly their Business Site Leases,” said Ed involved in developing the Navajo Whitewater, Director of Economic Nation economy. So, this is a win- Development. It will be Mr. White- win situation,” he said. “We should water’s department that packages be very thankful to the Economic the Business Site Lease applications Development Committee for giving for review. Of those businesses us this delegation of authority.” he’s currently working with, the L & L NAPA Auto Parts is already in When the Economic Development operation and is negotiating its Busi- Committee first voted to approve ness Site Lease to include the addi- business site leasing authority, then tion of two-bay garages so that the Town Manager, Jarvis Williams KAYENTA, AZ - Bone Thugs N winning various honors at the Gram- asked specifically what the “del- NAPA Auto Parts store will include Harmony, an American Hip-Hop mies, the MTV Music Awards, and egation of authority” meant for the a Tire Shop. group will be performing at the Kay- the American Music Awards. Township. What courts are available enta Recreation Center on February in case a lawsuit or dispute might The second group of interested 27, 2010. The rap group began as a In 1997 the rap group won a 4 arise? Can the Township secure 638 people who are actively negotiating core group of four members Krayzie Grammies for their rap songs: “Tha contracting for its own law enforce- their business site lease is Blue Sage, Bone, Bizzie Bone, Wish Bone, and Crossroads,” “1st of the Month”, ment? From here, the Kayenta Inc., which is planning to open an Layzie Bone in the early 1990s, and “Ridin” and Best Rap Album for community can discuss what sectors ALCO store just directly east of 7-2- then added Flesh N Bone before their 1996 release E. 1999 Eternal. of the economy the Township should 11 off U.S. Highway 160. ALCO is signing with the late Eazy- E of The group is also very well known add to. In the end, the Economic currently getting ready to bring in NWA as producer at Ruthless Re- for its collaborative works with the Development Committee said that a survey crew to look at the scope cords. late Eazy-E, Tupac Shakur, Notori- defining “delegation of authority” of work for a 30,000 square feet ous BIG, and mainstream artists like rested on the direction on the first store and a parking lot on 3 acres, he As the group found its sound, fast Mariah Carey. and future Business Site Leasing paced lyrics and harmonizing vocals Committee members. It should also explained. for which they became instantly be stated that the Master Lease the The group’s publicist acknowledged recognized in the rap industry, their Township had originally advocated DCM Developers from Tucson, AZ by phone that they have a big fol- beats and sounds were at first sup- for was to secure the foundations for are doing a study to open a Dollar lowing on the Navajo Reservation plied by DJ Yella, Kenny McCloud, a 99-year lease. Store or a General Store. A Good and they wanted to take the opportu- Rhythm D, and DJ Uneek. Their Sam’s RV Park and an Office Com- first Ruthless records album Cree- nity to get to know their Navajo fans The Commission elected its first plex have all established communi- pin On Ah Come Up went platinum by giving them a show in their own officers for the Kayenta Township cation with the Township Economic twice. The release of E 1999 Eternal communities. Their independent Business Site Leasing Committee: Development Department. These a fan favorite they doubled their suc- record label BTNH Worldwide will Ken Whitehair, President; Frank M. developments among others will be cess. release their new album The World’s Donald, Jr., Vice-President, Malcolm a part of the new Business Site Leas- Benally, Secretary (Township Com- Enemy. ing Committee’s report when they go Dr. Dre and Akon are rumored to be munity Involvement Coordinator), before the Navajo Nation Economic producing their next release. The and Gabriel Yazzie, BSL Member Tickets are scheduled to go on sale group has since had its share of suc- (Township Community Develop- Development Committee in Window at the Kayenta Township February cess and hit the mainstream in the ment Director). The Interim Town Rock, AZ on January 06, 2010. 05, 2010. Other outlets to buy your late 1990s Manager and Finance Director, The Kayenta Township is required to ticket will be announced at that time. Sylvia Yazzie was present at the provide a progress report within six meeting. months as of the date of approval of these plans, and then the Business The Kayenta Township Commission, Site Leasing Committee will provide by resolution KTCM-09-08, ap- an annual report to the Economic proved the formation of a Business Development Committee of the Site Leasing Committee that will Navajo Nation thereafter. include three Township administra- 5 Continued from page 1 participants, the group decided to The month of activities and being communicate by email to come to a Business Site Leasing Committee on the frontlines of providing educa- consensus. But, the source of opti- Makes First Report to the tion and outreach, the Victim Advo- mism the group is looking for was cate and her colleagues came to the provided best by Sergeant Byron Economic Development Committee conclusion that the KFHA name, the Coolie, who said, “We just all need Kayenta Family Healing Alliance to continue working together. We By Malcolm Benally the business site lease application needs to be changed to a name that is need to provide the best education ST. MICHAELS, AZ—–Economic is brought before the Business Site more open, fluid, and descriptive of that is necessary to the public we Development committee of Navajo Leasing Committee for approval. the group’s future goals and objec- work with and address the problems Nation government heard the first The first use of the leasing authority tives. or issues as they arise the best way six-month report from Kayenta by Business Site Leasing committee we can.” Township’s Business Site Leas- To begin with, the group’s mission was the approval of L&L Auto Parts ing committee. The presentation statement reads: “To establish col- After some email correspondence, at Kayenta. L&L Auto Parts is cur- centered on the use of the recently laborative partnership to reduce the and another monthly meeting on De- rently operational and the lease cov- occurrence of emotional, physical, cember 17, 2009 at the First Baptist delegated authority allowing Town- ers an expansion, which is intended verbal and sexual abuse; utilizing Church, the group decided to name ship to lease with businesses within to hold a 2-bay garage and tire shop, education, counseling, healthcare the organization Kayenta Commu- its boundary. plus amenities. The expansion will services and intervention programs.” nity Collaboration Team (KCCT). soon be completed. The group also enjoyed a pot-luck The Business Site Leasing commit- Other companies submitting appli- After deliberating on about 20 differ- lunch of Cheese Enchiladas, Salad, tee was presented by the following: cations to acquire Township leases ent names offered by the meeting and Spanish Rice. Ken Whitehair, Chair; Frank Don- include ALCO store, Eagle Air Med, Kayenta’s Poetry and Essay Contest ald Jr, Vice Chair; Malcolm Bena- and Sam’s RV Park. lly, Secretary; and Gabriel Yazzie, The first report was well received by KAYENTA, AZ - The Kayenta the arts, Mustang sports, the Navajo Community Development Director. Economic Development committee. Recreation Center hosted a Hip Hop language, community and economic Community Development Director Support for Kayenta Township was Dance to begin programs for Youth development, etc. The winning es- and new BSL member commented, openly expressed by EDC members. Activities and build on the Teen say will get a check for $250. Two “I believe with this new “delegation Township’s efforts to create a busi- Center on November 13, 2009. That honorable mentions will each get a of authority” from the EDC, busi- ness friendly environment came with evening, DJ Sixkiller, the MC of the check for $50. compliments from EDC member nesses are going to be able to come evening announced an Essay and Honorable Mel R Begay. Begay into our community a lot quicker Poetry Contest for the upcoming POETRY CONTEST: added that the making of ordinances Kayenta Centennial Celebration dur- The Theme for the Poetry Contest than other communities on the res- within a municipal form of local ing the 2010 4th of July Festivities. will be “The K-TOWN Get Down.” ervation. With me being a member government has positive attributes The deadline for the Poem will be of this committee, I bring strength in that may safeguard the interests of The Poetry and Essay Contest is due at 5:00 pm January 18th, 2010 at the areas of dealing with municipali- Navajo Nation. open to writers and poets up to 18 the Kayenta Township Main Office. ties and capital improvement proj- years of age. The winning essay and The poem should have 21-lines, ects which helps me out as a member The EDC recommended that Kay- poem will be published in a future typed and double spaced for clarity. of this committee.” enta Township work with Navajo issue of the Kayenta Today. The age requirements will be open Nation Department of Justice in de- to any budding poets up to 18-years Also in attendance was Ed White- veloping local ordinances. One ex- ESSAY CONTEST: of age. ample was establishing the eligibility “The K-Town Get Down” poem water, Economic Development The Theme for the Essay Contest to do PL 93-638 contracting, also will be ”Looking At Kayenta After should be done in good spirit with Director, who provided technical called Indian Self-Determination, 100 Years.” The deadline for the the intention of highlighting what the expertise. Mr. Whitewater is not a and to use such contracting methods essay will be due at 5:00 pm January community has achieved throughout member of the Business Site Leasing to develop the enforcement of local 18th, 2010 at the Kayenta Town- time. The Winning Poet will receive committee. The director’s responsi- ordinances. Township was encour- ship Main Office. The 500-word a check for $150. Two honorable bility is to work with potential busi- essay should be typed and double mentions will receive $25. aged to bring topic matters to EDC, nesses in packaging their business spaced for clarity. The age require- Both the winning essay and poem and to show the continued develop- site lease applications, and then ments will be open to anyone up to will be published on the Kayenta ment of a municipality. 18-years of age Today in a future issue, and to be read to an audience during the 2010 The essay can look at the history 4th of July Festivities. of Kayenta that is interesting to the If your essay or poem is done before author. Or, the author can profile a the deadline of January 18, 2010, it community leader, or write about can be mailed attention to Malcolm their family. There are many facets Benally, Community Involvement to the community of Kayenta that Coordinator, PO Box 1490, Kayenta, can be explored in this essay, such AZ 86033. If you have any ques- as the future ofthe future of tourism, tions, please don’t hesitate to email public safety, [email protected]. 6 An Epidemic and A Pandemic Flu In The Navajo Past By Richard Mike Medicine has learned quite a bit People off the reservation are para- about the flu, as millions of people noid these days and many have died from it the world over still aren’t aware of the changes since 1918. The Kayenta Health brought about by the swine flu Service Unit recently handed out (H1N1). Oh yes, the fear is there, pamphlets about the “human flu”, everywhere in the border towns, the the “bird flu”, and the “pandemic cry of big stores like Home Depot, flu.” Now we’re extra cautious of COSTCO, and Sam’s Club have a new strain called the “swine flu.” hand sanitizers waiting for you at An average 18,000 people country- the front door. Off-the reservation wide fall into a high risk category for death or serious complications schools have scuttled away “perfect from swine flu. The priority group attendance” award programs, co- to receive the H1N1 Swine Flu vac- workers are snitching on each other cine are Pregnant women, children if a co-worker shows up at work 6 months to 4 years old, children with flu symptoms. between ages 5 to 18 with underly- ing health conditions such as neuro- On October 23, 2009, renowned muscular disease diabetes, underly- artist Michael Kabotie died at ing heart or lung conditions, or a the Flagstaff Medical Center from suppressed immune system. Anyone H1N1. He was 67 years old. He who lives with or cares for children died off the reservation. The reser- less than 6 months, healthcare work- vation is unaware of his passing. The ers with direct patient contact are Navajo Nation is so disconnected also at risk. from other happenings in the rest of the world. Because Navajo people would rather listen to KTNN radio, they The Navajo reservation has “Na- are basically uninformed about this tional Health Care” that began in new strain of the swine flu. Public 1955 through Indian Health Services Schools and Boarding Schools are (IHS). Now Congress is in negotia- left with the task of immunizing tions to unveil legislation to provide their students. The Indian Health insurance to 36 million Americans Service (IHS) is left with the task of who otherwise won’t have it. Natu- getting enough H1N1 vaccine for In- rally, this creates a long-term effect dian students which is in very short supply. Off the reservation, parents on federal deficits. The problem for are responsible for the immunization Cheryl Alcott poses with vintage Arbuckle Ground Coffee Boxes the Navajo is that the IHS is funded of their children. Seasonal flu vac- Navajo people who don’t know their The Dictionary defines “Pandemic” entirely by the U.S. government. In cinations for children aged 18 and history don’t realize how calamitous as: “Of a disease prevalent through- the last decade, attempts have been under costs about $15.00. No one certain strains of the flu can be. The out an entire country, continent, or made to collect from Navajos with is denied service for inability to pay. flu is a seasonal flu. The Navajo the whole world; epidemic over a personal insurance. In any case, the In fact, people should bring their people were rocked and devastated large area”. The Smallpox epidemic federal government literally passes insurance cards. There is no out-of- once already by a deadly strain of of 1917 I believe was confined either the buck. Navajos who work for pocket cost for the H1N1 (swine) flu flu almost 90 years ago. One does to the southwest or at least to sev- the IHS, BIA, NTUA, and Public vaccine. It’s the IHS that administers not hear any stories of this horrific eral states, but a smallpox vaccine Schools get medical services then the H1N1 (swine) flu intranasal mist deadly disease that visited the Na- was available at that time. I’m not the IHS simply charges another vaccine for healthy children age 2 to vajo people in 1918. No tales know certain the smallpox epidemic of branch of government. 4 years old while supplies last. the exact numbers. It is likely two 1917 qualifies as a pandemic. It was diseases in combination killed thou- an epidemic. The second one, the flu sands of Navajo people: smallpox pandemic of 1918 was worldwide. in 1917 followed immediately by the Over one hundred million people pandemic flu of 1918. died. The Navajo Tribe, we’ll never know the number of Navajo people I decided to bring up some voices who died from this devastating flu from the past, more specifically, pandemic. voices from 1917 and voices from the winter of 1918 who can describe H1N1 Flu Vaccinations: its demands and shortages was the big news the pandemics that devastated the all year long in 2009. Navajo people ninety-six years ago. Continued on page 7 7 Continued from page 6 Trader, Mr. Williams and his two The Smallpox Epidemic of 1917 sons eventually got smallpox and The first account is from the book, fortunately, they all survived. Bread Upon The Sands, by Billie Williams Yost. Ms. Yost was the Another voice from the past is that youngest daughter of William and of Hilda Faunce (Wetherill), her Gertrude Williams, Indian traders of book is entitled Desert Wife. In her the Red Lake Trading Post at Tona- book, she recalls both the smallpox lea, AZ from 1914 to 1929. During epidemic of 1917 and the flu pan- the fifteen years of Ms. Yost’s stay, demic of 1918. Ms. Faunce and her the road to civilization was across husband, whom she refers too as the Little Colorado River at Benta Ken in the book, is actually – Win- Mesa and on to Winslow. The road slow Wetherill, the youngest of the to City in those days went five Wetherill brothers, she writes: through Blue Canyon, which eventu- ally turned into Coal Mine Canyon. “Ken purchased a decrepit two-room A flood wiped out the original Red shack, an abandoned trading post Lake Trading Post in October 1929 near Black Mountain in 1914. Black near the bottom of a hill in Coal Mountain Trading Post has been Mine Canyon. It was inundated by abandoned for years now, but was a flood and wiped out. Since then, located twenty miles west of Chinle (Pgs 242 – 243). ….Ken sent word The Navajos fully expected white the new Red Lake Trading Post was and fifteen miles northeast of the to the Utcity (Etcitty) “Hogan’s, people (Traders and missionaries) to constructed near the top of a red Salina Springs Trading Post. Mr. and urging them to bring every one, in bury their dead. sandy hillside ridge where it sits Mrs. Ken Faunce re-establish the wagons if necessary, for vaccina- now along U.S. Highway 160 road Trading Post in 1914 and three years tion, and in a few days they came in The Traders also left other influ- from Tuba City to Kayenta, AZ She later were hit with the smallpox wagons, in buggy and on horseback. ences. Ms. Mildred Heflin for ex- writes: epidemic.” My apparatus and technique for vac- ample, introduced me to books and

cination consisted of soap and water told me stories and happenings as “In December (1917) a dreadful “I never should have supposed I to wash a clean spot on the arm, then she saw them many years before I plague of smallpox spread with could be calm in a smallpox epi- the scraping of a small area and the was even born. Although she was lighting-like rapidity over all the demic. It came upon us suddenly and rubbing in of a small drop of vac- only five years old during the great reservation. The chance of keep- almost immediately dozens of our cine.” (pg 245). flu pandemic of 1918, she remem- ing such an epidemic under control, friends and customers were dead. bered the stories her father (Stokes with living conditions as they were, The Indians came to the post with “Gradually the plague passed and Carson) and mother (Jessie Carson) was impossible. A family of eight their bodies covered with sores; they told her of burying bodies and seeing or more would eat, sleep, and breed lay down on the floor besides the we heard of no more deaths or new cases. It was like waking from a so much death at Huerfano, New in one room no larger than twelve stove, sick as could be, unable to . Presently we have Navajo nightmare to find that the worst of it by fifteen feet. The ground was hard climb on their ponies again and go children “trick or treating” at vari- had really happened. Ken was tired and cold. No ventilation relieved the home.“ ous stores and home clusters; the and more than ever silent; he stayed smoky atmosphere, and germs ran Missionaries introduced Christmas at the post more and rode less. We rampant amid this perfect setting. …“After our floor, the camp Hogan presents; and, Navajo children are were grateful for the work that kept …Every day, two or three Navajos was the next resting place. From hunting easter eggs laid by Easter would arrive at the post and beg there some relative would help the us too busy to think always of those Bunnies on Easter morning. Navajo Father to come help them in their sick person into a wagon or onto his who no longer came to the store”. people and white people now pay an misery. Father wanted desperately to pony and get him home to die. It was (pg 250). under-taker to bury their loved-ones aid them, but he knew it was hope- not the least use for Ken and me to in a cemetery; from a simple pine less. One man can’t fight a raging be careful; the disease was every- Back in the years 1917 and 1918, the box to a luxury copper or tin casket epidemic alone. …When his friend, where. Of course when a medicine Navajo reservation was completely depending upon how much love or Little Gambler, came and pleaded man treated anyone, a crowd came different than it is today. The Trading money you have. for assistance, he could not refuse. to the ceremony and the disease Post was the hub of all community He went to the plague-infested was spread more effectually. Such activity, news, announcements, and Since the Indian Traders were called Hogan of Lame Back. She was dead things were of daily occurrence. the US mail. Basically there were upon to bury some of the Indian and so was White One’s little daugh- Vaccination had been explained to no clusters of homes or houses like dead, they did not want to get in- ter who lay by her side. In the next the Indians years ago by government today. There was only a Trading Post volved in having to make coffins. Hogan, Big Ears, his squaw, and two agents and the outbreaks of smallpox and a visitor’s Hogan for custom- There were simply too many dead. sons were dead. Only Little Gam- among the Mexicans had spread to ers who planned to stay overnight. For an adult burial, two large Ar- bler and Tall Girl had survived (Pg the reservation before. Many of the The Navajos lived miles away from buckle Coffee boxes were fastened 194)…As the only lumber available Navajos hurried to the agencies to be the Trading Post and miles away together. One box could be used to was two pine Arbuckle coffee boxes, vaccinated, but the sickness spread from each other. Just as the Navajos bury a child. When whole families (Father) used these. Mother lined so quickly that hundreds did not were very important to the Trader were found dead in their Hogan’s, it the finished burial case with pale have time to get there before they or as customers, so too, was the Trader was simpler to burn down the entire blue calico”. (Pg. 214). The Indian their families were down” important to the Navajos. Hogan with the bodies left inside. 8 Interim Town Manager, Sylvia in full at the Kayenta Township Kayenta Recreation Center Yazzie, who facilitated the adminis- Finance Department before the event trative review says, “After a review takes place. Looks At The Future of some of the costs other towns 4. Facility use rental agreements By Malcolm Benally staff found that in the winter months, charge, there is no reason to be los- are given out on a “first come, first KAYENTA, AZ – The Kayenta the Kayenta Recreation Center was ing money at the Kayenta Recreation serve” basis. Township administrative staff is cur- spending at least $1,600 a month for Center. If we did a simple break 5. The facility must be cleaned after rently updating all of its department propane for its heating costs alone. even analysis, we can measure how the event, and will be inspected by policies and procedures, and after an During this time, the cost to oper- much the recreation center brings the Recreation Leader the following administrative review of the Kay- ate the Kayenta Recreation Center in as revenue for facility rental, just Monday after the event. enta Recreation Center Parks and far exceeds the revenue that comes enough to cover its operating costs. 6. Fees will no longer be waived. Recreation facilities, the Township in for facility use. In addition to a If we can meet this, that would be Payments will be made in full prior decided to revisit its rental facility staff of three (Recreation Leader, great,” she said. to the event. use agreements Recreation Assistant, and Recreation 7. The Event Flyers must include: Custodian), the center has had to The new costs and protocol to be “Not Responsible for Theft, Personal After a request by the Finance De- invest heavily in security cameras, implemented for the Fiscal Year Injury, or Damage To Property” in partment to review the rental fees for which has increased utility costs 2010 Facility Use Rental at the Kay- print. facility use, the department found significantly. enta Recreation Center will be: 8. All fee payments for facility use that the Kayenta Recreation Center rental must be PAID IN FULL at the was losing a significant amount of Thus, the need to bring in more Facility Rental and Facility Use Finance Department at the Kayenta monies while maintaining the facil- revenue to the Township coffers vs Procedures Township main office. ity. One of the main reasons the rec- supporting community development 1. Have the Customer fill out a facil- reation center was losing money is activities will become an issue of de- ity use agreement application. because the center was waiving too bate. At some point in the equation, 2. The Customer must show proof many fees for organizations that hold event promoters have to be able to of Liability Insurance for the date of meetings, host public events, health afford the facility use fees. To find the event. fairs, and provide workshops. an adequate solution to have some 3. The Customer must pay a non-re- control over costs, the Finance De- fundable facility use fee of $800.00 Due in part to the recession, the partment took an average of facility to schedule an event, at least two Kayenta Township has had to look use rental costs in neighboring towns weeks prior to the event. The bal- at future cost projections for all of like Window Rock, Chinle, Tuba ance for facility use must be paid its departments. The administrative City, and Shiprock, NM. Kayenta Recreation Center Facility Use Fees 2010

Country and Western Dance $800 * Rental fees shall be paid in full with a $50 Song and Dance $800 cleaning deposit. The $50 cleaning deposit will Pow-Wow $800 be refunded after the clean-up of facilities by Special Events: sponsors. Christmas Eve Events $1,175 per event Christmas Day Events $1,175 per event New Years Eve Events $1,175 per event * Fees will not be waivered and partial payments New Years Day Events $1,175 per event will not be accepted. Valentine’s Day Events $1,175 per event Fourth of July Events $1,175 per event The Kayenta Recreation Center will only provide Memorial Day Events $1,175 per event assistance in scheduling a date, filling out Facil- ity Use Agreement applications, and having the Others: Certificates of Liability for each event on file. All Hip Hop Dances $250 per event Health Fair $500 per event other questions about fees and payments should Birthday parties/Graduations $100 per event be directed to the Kayenta Township Finance Town Hall Small Conference Room $150 per meeting Department, (928) 697-8451. Town Hall Large Conference Room No Rental 9 Robberies and Shootings in Kayenta: Township Speaker Morgan Announces Winter Session Agenda Gets The Story from Criminal Investigations By Joshua Lavar Butler the transfer of the administration, By Malcolm Benally As of late Thursday morning, the WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. -- The Hon- oversight and funding of the Canyon KAYENTA, AZ - The Kayenta Unit was waiting for the Federal orable Speaker Lawrence T. Morgan De Chelly National Monument from Township staff Malcolm Benally, Bureau of Investigations to come on has announced the agenda for the the National Park Service to the Navajo Nation. This item was tabled Community Involvement Coordina- board to continue following its leads. 2010 winter session of the 21st Na- Oct. 22 to allow Council to discuss tor and Shonie Delarosa, IT/Media The fact is only that there is a “per- vajo Nation Council. The one-week the matter further in a work session. met with Roger Yazzie, Criminal son of interest.” The Unit said it will session will begin Jan. 25 at the Investigator late Thursday morning wait for further developments before Navajo Nation Council chamber. concerning the recent incidents that In new business, there are 18 items they release anymore information or up for discussion and consideration were first reported around about 6 The session will begin with oral details. by the Council. pm January 14, 2010. reports from Council Speaker Law-

The suspect was described as pos- rence T. Morgan; the state of the Some highlights include Legislation To begin with, the CI Unit Inves- sibly a black male, approximately Navajo Nation address from Presi- No. 0598-09, sponsored by Willie tigator Yazzie said, “No one has 5’11” to 6’ tall, wearing all black dent Joe Shirley Jr.; a report on the Tracey (Ganado/Kinlichee) to make been hurt since the incident was clothing. He was possibly carrying a special prosecutor investigation of the position of the Navajo Attorney first reported.” Although IT/Media black colored handgun. OnSat, BCDS and the Council’s General an elected position. has received several inquiries from discretionary assistance program around the state of Arizona and Law enforcement officials are seek- from Navajo Attorney General Louis Legislation No. 0746-09, sponsored beyond about the incident, a lot of ing the public’s assistance in locat- Denetsosie; a report from Dr. Robert by LoRenzo C. Bates (Upper Fruit- the rumours that have surfaced since ing the suspect or any information Shelton regarding efforts to assist land), seeks approval of terms and the Tuesday evening incident can the Navajo Nation at the University conditions of a Senior Unsecured now be layed to rest. First and most relating to this case. If you have any questions, please contact Sergeant of Arizona; a report from Aneva General Obligation Tax-exempt important, no one has been shot or J. Yazzie, chief executive officer Term Loan from Key Bank in the killed. Benally of the Kayenta police De- partment at (928) 697-5600 or Rod- for Navajo Housing Authority, on Maximum Principal amount of $60 NHA’s recent accomplishments and million to primarily use as funds to The CI Unit said also that the inci- ger Yazzie of the Kayenta Criminal activities; and a report from Wal- construct public safety facilities and dent is still under investigation. Investigation at (928) 697-5511. ter W. Haase, general manager for judicial complexes across the Navajo Navajo Tribal Utility Authority on Nation in determined areas. Tuba City Couple Indicted for Assault and Child Abuse By Sandy Raynor tized by repeated trauma. Doctors NTUA’s 2009 accomplishments, its Legislation No. 0010-10, sponsored PHOENIX - A federal grand jury in indicated all of these injuries were 2010 budget and its 2010 goals. by Katherine Benally (Dennehotso), Phoenix returned a 14-count indict- serious, extremely painful and un- Andy R. Ayze (Chinle) and George ment yesterday against Royce Paul treated. Written reports will also be submit- Arthur, seeks the enactment of Paddock, 35, of Tuba City, Ariz., ted to the Council by the various the Office of Legislative Counsel for eight counts of Assault Result- A conviction for Assault Resulting standing committees of the Council, Amendments Act of 2010. The pur- ing in Serious Bodily Injury and six in Serious Bodily Injury carries a boards and commissions, the region- pose of this resolution is to enhance counts of Intentional or Knowing maximum penalty of 10 years to life, al director of the Bureau of Indian the ability of the Office of Legisla- Child Abuse. His wife, Anna Laura a $250,000 fine or both. A convic- Affairs and the area director for the tive Counsel to provide legal servic- Paddock, 36, also of Tuba City, was tion for Intentional or Knowing Child Indian Health Service. es to the Navajo Nation Council, its charged with six counts of Intention- Abuse carries a maximum penalty of standing committees, the boards and al or Knowing Child Abuse. Royce 22 years in federal prison. In deter- In old business, Legislation No. commissions, office and entities of Paddock is currently in federal cus- mining an actual sentence, the judge 0523-09, sponsored by Tom Lapahe the Legislative Branch of the Navajo tody. The couple will be arraigned at will consult the U.S. Sentencing a later date on the charges. (Tachee/Blue Gap/Whippoorwill) Nation government. Guidelines, which provide appropri- seeks approval and acceptance of a ate sentencing ranges. The judge, The indictment alleges that the de- grant proposal from the Hoosh Dooh Legislation No. 0775-09, sponsored however, is not bound by those guide- fendants, who were guardians of the Dii To’ Development Inc. to the Na- by Johnny Naize (Tselani/Cotton- lines in determining a sentence. 5-year-old victim, failed to get medi- vajo Nation Council for Undesignat- wood/Nazlini) and Sampson Begay cal treatment for the victim after ed Unreserved Funds in the amount (Jeddito/Steamboat/Low Mountain), An indictment is simply the method Royce Paddock physically assaulted of $200,975. This legislation was seeks confirmation and appoint- by which a person is charged with ment of Tom Platero as the division her over the past year, resulting in tabled Oct. 20 due to lack of funds. criminal activity and raises no in- director for the Navajo Division of serious bodily injury to the child. ference of guilt. An individual is Transportation. The victim had surgery to repair a Legislation No. 0418-08, sponsored presumed innocent until competent broken leg and a fractured elbow and by George Arthur (T’iistoh Sikaad/ evidence is presented to a jury that Legislation No. 0758-09, sponsored suffered two pelvic fractures as well San Juan/Nenanezad), seeks the as a rib fracture. Her hair had been establishes guilt beyond a reasonable by Hope MacDonald Lone Tree doubt.The investigation preceding the repeal of a resolution adopted July (Coalmine Canyon/Toh Nanees pulled out by the roots, resulting in 8, 1930, by the Navajo Tribal Coun- scarring. Her front teeth had been indictment was conducted the Navajo Dizi), seeks the enactment of the cil authorizing the President of the pulled out. She had been beaten so Department of Criminal Investiga- Navajo Nation Internet Sex Offenses United States to establish the Can- severely that upon her admission to tions and the Federal Bureau of In- Act of 2009. the hospital she was severelyanemic vestigation. The prosecution is being yon De Chelly National Monument and required a blood transfusion. handled by Dyanne C. Greer and Sha- to be administered by the National A complete copy of the Winter Ses- The tip of her nose was missing and ron Sexton, Assistant U.S. Attorneys, Park Service and adopting as the of- sion agenda is available online at infected. Her ear was trauma District of Arizona, Phoenix. ficial position of the Navajo Nation www.navajonationcouncil.org. 10 Continued from page 1 Rebecca Joe also announced the Health, Social Services Committee hear status re- and purple ribbons to raise aware- award of two grants, both extended port on audit of Navajo Area Agency on Aging ness about Domestic Violence to an end date of September 2010 Victims and programs to fight Breast that was awarded to the Navajo Of- By Joshua Lavar Butler Naschitti Senior Centers. This Cancer. KFHA reported an up to fice of the Chief Prosecutor as the WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. - The recommendation had the commit- date balance of $551 towards pro- lead agency. According a depart- Health and Social Services Commit- tee concerned because the elderly gram activities. tee of the 21st Navajo Nation Coun- population is simply forgotten, par- ment press release, the grant in the cil met with the Navajo Division of ticularly the rural citizens of these amount of $398,000 is itemized to The month of activities and being Health regarding a report prepared communities. on the frontlines of providing educa- go to programs to “Encourage Arrest by Division Director Anslem Roan- tion and outreach, the Victim Advo- Policies and Enforcement of Projec- horse. Council Delegate Evelyn Acothley cate and her colleagues came to the tion Order Programs.” The project (Bodaway-Gap/Cameron/Cop- conclusion that the KFHA name, the will consist of tribal departmental One of the main issues in the report permine) stated that the elderly Kayenta Family Healing Alliance entities including the Navajo Nation was the status of the Navajo Area cannot be eliminated services and needs to be changed to a name that is Office of the Prosecutor (OCP), So- Agency on Aging (NAAA) Audit questioned why the NAAA and its more open, fluid, and descriptive of cial Services, Public Safety, and the Report from the Navajo Nation’s seven corrective measures were not the group’s future goals and objec- Battered Families Program. These Auditor General. The NAAA is a yet implemented? The issue with tives. monies are expected to trickle down subdivision within the Navajo Divi- NAAA not implementing the cor- to providing services to regional sion of Health. rective measures goes back to 2005 To begin with, the group’s mission areas including Kayenta, AZ. and it still remains in the same state statement reads: “To establish col- The Auditor General’s report re- today. laborative partnership to reduce the vealed that the Navajo Division of The second grant titled the Of- occurrence of emotional, physical, Health did not implement 7 out of Acothley added, “The elderly are a fice of Violence Against Women verbal and sexual abuse; utilizing 10 “outstanding corrective mea- prime state of knowledge and should (OVW) Tribal Grant in the amount education, counseling, healthcare sures” in the NAAA. The corrective not be delayed any services.” services and intervention programs.” of $500,000 is to enhance the ser- measures consist mostly of having After deliberating on about 20 differ- vice of protection orders. A portion an educated and sound workforce In addition to the seven measures not ent names offered by the meeting of this money has gone to pay for within the NAAA subdivision. The being implemented, the job vacan- participants, the group decided to overtime hours for police officers lack of these corrective measures cies of 48 positions are an issue of communicate by email to come to a who serve protection orders. The has dramatically affected the Navajo concern. Council Delegate Alice consensus. But, the source of opti- grant is also looking to hire Pri- Division of Health’s effort to provide Benally (Crownpoint/Nahodishgish) mism the group is looking for was vate Process Servers. The OVW services to the elderly population on shared Acothley’s concerns. provided best by Sergeant Byron Tribal Grant seeks three goals for the Navajo Nation. Coolie, who said, “We just all need the funding: 1) Establish a special- “The job vacancies will continually to continue working together. We ized enforcement unit dedicated to The committee expressed their con- affect the delivery of services to the need to provide the best education developing, assessing and training cerns after hearing that the Navajo elderly populations,” Benally said. that is necessary to the public we on Navajo Nation domestic violence, Division of Health is considering “As for retired positions, I don’t work with and address the problems the shut down or merging of senior want to see any disruptions in ser- dating violence, stalking and sexual or issues as they arise the best way centers that have small elder popula- vices. We want services to be contin- assault protocol; 2) Enhance process we can.” tions. At Sheep Springs, New Mex., ued -- not ended.” serving by improving intervention for example, the supervisor had After some email correspondence, policies, streamline process serving; retired and the issue there is whether The committee approved the report and another monthly meeting on De- and 3) Development, implementing or not to merge Sheep Springs and with a vote of 6-0. cember 17, 2009 at the First Baptist and training of protocols for process Church, the group decided to name serving. the organization Kayenta Commu- nity Collaboration Team (KCCT). For more information about becom- The group also enjoyed a pot-luck ing a Private Process Server, please lunch of Cheese Enchiladas, Salad, call Gwen at (928) - 871-6622 or and Spanish Rice. email her at [email protected].

The Community Marches To Raise Awareness Down Main Street In Kayenta, Photo Malcolm Benally 11 Kayenta’s Community Christmas Dinner By Malcolm Benally So, began the Keynote Address from KAYENTA, AZ – The Community Samuel Holiday, Navajo Code Christmas Dinner this year stretched Talker, 4th Marine Division, 25th to two days for the small community, Regiment, originally from Oljato, young and old alike received gifts . His odyssey began as a young provided by the Kayenta Chapter, boy, a Navajo Shepherd who was businesses, and local service provid- raised by his Grandma. He injured ers. his knee herding sheep as a young boy that took him first to Ganado For the first time in three years, the hospital, and onto primary school at Kayenta Township, local churches, Tuba City Boarding School where the Kayenta Chapter, Senior Center, he saw White people at age 12 for Kayenta schools, Kayenta Trailer the first time. “I was afraid of them Court, Kevin & Yolanda McAu- as a young boy,” he said to scuffled liffe, Kayenta Family Chiropractic, laughter from the audience. Otie and Garfield greet young and old as they receive their Christmas Navajo Nation Shopping Center, Gifts. Bashas’, True Value, 7-2-11, Flintco, Later, as a vocational education Inc., and Cellular One all came student in Provo, Utah, he received a together to make the Kayenta Com- letter telling him to report to Phoe- munity Christmas Dinner a complete nix, AZ in 1943. He was shipped to success. Together, the community Camp Pendleton in Oceanside, CA served over 450 people. where he trained as a Navajo . As a Marine, he fought on Due to the prominence of Elders the Island of Saipan, Kwajalien, and attending the event, the day’s while on the battlefield, he was cap- agenda was replete with the Navajo tured twice by the U.S. Marines as language. The Welcome Address he was mistaken for a Japanese sol- was provided by Kayenta Chapter dier. “The Japanese were just young President, Stanley Clitso. In a rare moment that was charged with quiet guys and they looked like Navajos,” emotion, he introduced Mimi Salt, a he said. Navajo woman and now Elder as a World War II Veteran. To entertain Upon his return to Navajo land, he the crowd, Miss Western Navajo has been a Navajo Police Officer, Agency sang the Mountain Song in worked for Peabody Coal Company, Navajo. and for the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. He married Lupita Mae “I was eleven years old when we Isaac in 1954. They have eight chil- Kayenta Chapter Veteran’s Association Commander Rick Grey gives a moved to Kayenta and I saw the dren, thirty-five grandchildren, and present to Marie Reed as Jane Atene patiently looks on. people of Kayenta for the first time.” twenty-four great grandchildren.

Miss Western Navajo Agency Petra Tsosie treated the audience to the traditional “Mountain Song” in Navajo and thanked them for their Jasper Lake, Hugh Interpreter, Otie, Anderson Black, Garfield, Rick travels to the Community Christmas Dinner. Some locals came from Grey, Wesley Simpson. as far away as Phoenix, AZ and , UT for the holidays. Happy New Year!

From The Kayenta Township