HOWNIKAN Zawbogyagises | September 2021

Top photo: View of the North Canadian River from a hot air First Americans Museum celebrates opening weekend balloon during FireLake Fireflight After decades of being hindered by Balloon Festival in August 2021. inconsistent funding and bureaucratic red tape, the First Americans Museum in Oklahoma City opens to the A LOOK INSIDE public Sept. 18 and 19. The weekend includes tours, demonstrations, poetry Page 5 readings, fashion shows, shopping, family activities and more. The staff and volunteers’ excitement shows their dedication to the project, which they look forward to sharing with the public. “We want to set the right perspective and tone for opening weekend Tribal member honored through because it really is a true celebration memorial scholarhsip of how far we’ve come and that the museum is finally open,” said Ginny Pages 10-11 Underwood, FAM’s marketing and communications manager. Potawatomi Leadership Program Class of 2021 Citizen Potawatomi Nation employee and Curley family descendant Kendra From the architecture to the exhibitions, the First Americans Museum near downtown Lowden volunteered to assist the museum Oklahoma City offers opportunities to learn about the 39 tribes in the state. Page 13 opening weekend. She has waited more than a decade for the opportunity. “The land itself used to be an oil field. And first Native American U.S. poet laureate so we had to reclaim the land and heal the and Muscogee (Creek) Nation citizen. “The FAM staff I have interacted with are land before we could start the structure tribal citizens with a focus on properly of the museum,” Underwood said. “In The rest of the day’s presenters representing the cultures and histories 2005, there was a ground blessing here include Indigenous chefs, artists, of all Oklahoma tribes. It touches my with our tribal communities,” with musicians and dancers. There will heart to know that the people doing the more than 1,000 people in attendance. be movie screenings and drum- Students benefit from daily work at FAM have a deep, cultural making demonstrations and even a summer programs connection to their work,” Lowden said. The grounds and interior of the community mural project for children. building include three Oklahoma Art Land and architecture in Public Places pieces in partnership “Once you get on campus, there’s just so Pages 14-18 with the Oklahoma Arts Council, many things to do and engage with First The museum’s designers and architects bringing some tribes’ oldest beliefs American cultures as well as enjoy the Tribal Executive and worked meaning and Native and traditions into the modern-day. exhibition. So we’re just expecting a … Legislative updates significance into every portion of large crowd those days,” Underwood said. the building and property. Tesia “There’s just a lot of things that I think Opening weekend shines a light on Pages 19-20 Zientek, CPN tribal member and CPN people are going to find unexpected the museum’s bigger mission through Department of Education Director, and really enjoy seeing over and Walking on exhibitions and day-to-day programming. recognized those connections during over again,” Underwood said. a recent tour. The commitment to NON-PROFIT

FIRST CLASS “Our hope is that people leave the detail inspires her volunteerism. The design also incorporates a 159-seat

STANDARD MAIL STANDARD museum as well as our programs with theater, gift shop, café and restaurant, for a deeper and revitalized respect for “Decades of thought, advocacy and which Citizen Potawatomi tribal member artistry have made the museum what the arts, history and culture of the 39 Loretta Oden serves as chef consultant. tribes here in Oklahoma today,” said it is today, and it made me emotional Former Potawatomi Leadership Program to see it come together after so much Adrienne Lalli Hills, associate director participant Jackson Barrett also works for learning and community engagement, combined effort,” she said. “The way that for the FAM as a guest services associate. PR SRT STD PR SRT US POSTAGE PAID US POSTAGE PERMIT NO 49 PERMIT PAID PAID PERMIT NO 49 PERMIT NO 49 PERMIT U.S. POSTAGE and Wyandot Nation member. NON-PROFIT ORG NON-PROFIT STIGLER, OK 74462 the facility incorporates the environment STIGLER, OK 74462 STIGLER, OK 74462 PR SRT FIRST CLASS FIRST PR SRT and tribal details from the floor to the “This museum will be a great opportunity The museum welcomes the general public ceiling is absolutely breathtaking.” to shine a light on Native American to attend fun family weekends year- history in this state and to teach people The structure serves as an astronomical round with art activities and interpretive about the history and the culture of stations included with admission. Walk- clock, according to Underwood. The sun all the different tribes,” Barrett said. rises and sets on different sections of the in tours and performances account for a tiny portion of its offerings. museum to commemorate the special The museum offered Lowden and times of the equinox and solstice, as well other volunteers a preview of the “We’ll also be designing programs with as observing the cardinal directions. museum, and she was enthusiastic our Native visitors in mind,” Lalli about the opportunities it provides Hills said. “So, we’ll have special “Everything about how FAM is positioned to bridge that understanding. is in relation to that,” she said. “So that’s tours for groups of Native folks that kind of an exciting thing for people just want to deeply engage with our “I am excited to see all of the Native people stories and the objects on view.” to understand that so much thought and other Oklahomans begin to explore has been given to not just the objects the museum grounds and facilities,” she The museum includes two long-term and things that they’ll find in our said. “I can already feel the energy I galleries. Okla Homma’s three sections exhibitions, but also the architecture know will be present opening weekend.” follow a historical timeline of the area and the layout of the museum itself.” once known as Indian Territory, from Programming and storytelling The FAM campus includes a 90- the land’s original inhabitants to the foot mound that connects visitors Opening weekend kicks off with represen- present day. The interactive exhibits allow visitors to play games, explore to an ancient history of Mound tatives from all of Oklahoma’s 39 tribes and leave with a hands-on experience. Builders while offering a stunning convening, followed by remarks from view of downtown Oklahoma Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoa- City and the Oklahoma River. tubby and a reading from Joy Harjo, the Continued on page 7 2 SEPTEMBER 2021 HOWNIKAN Treaty of Fort Wayne, the War of 1812 On Sept. 30, 1809, Potawatomi, Winamac served as a double-agent, trying Delaware, Miami and Eel River to maintain a positive reputation among tribal leaders signed the Treaty of his people while also providing Harrison Fort Wayne, which included ceding and the federal government intelligence approximately 3 million acres of regarding the growing Nativist movement. land in Ohio, Illinois, Indiana and Michigan for 2 cents per acre. “Harrison rewarded Winamac well, but many Potawatomis disliked Some tribal leaders saw the treaty as an the chief, envisioning him as opportunity to provide for their people little more than a puppet for the while others believed it merely supported Americans,” Edmunds wrote. non-Native expansion in the Great Lakes region. The agreement ultimately Tecumseh determined a compromise brought an end to peace between the between Natives and non-Natives was Unites States and many Native Nations, impossible after he attended a failed creating a divide that contributed conference at Vincennes, Indiana, to the start of the War of 1812. with the U.S. officials and Winamac in 1810. The Shawnee chief focused Persuasion the rest of the year recruiting Native warriors across the Great Lakes Eager to build upon the legacies of The Treaty of Fort Wayne is also known as the Ten O’clock Line Treaty and provided fuel for many Native Americans to follow Tecumseh and his brother Tenskwatawa. region to support his confederacy. past administrations, President James Madison worked to acquire more and several Delaware leaders with the federal government due In the fall of 1811, Harrison led more Native American land throughout convinced them otherwise. to their villages’ locations near than 1,000 men to confront those at his presidential tenure. Madison’s American military outposts. Prophetstown, resulting in the Battle secretary of war, William Eustis, ordered “The Potawatomis and Delawares agreed of Tippecanoe. The conflict created then-Indiana Territory Governor to participate in the cession only as ‘allies’ Nativism further divide between the United States William Henry Harrison to assemble of the Miamis and not as owners of the and Native Americans, encouraging all the Indiana tribes at Fort Wayne lands, but the technicalities made little During this time, the Shawnee prophet Tecumseh’s confederacy to ally with Britain. in September of 1809 to reach an different to Winamac,” Edmunds wrote. Tenskwatawa and his brother Tecumseh’s agreement that would open lands for movement was gaining traction across The Treaty of Fort Wayne not only settlement south of the Wabash River. In return for Winamac’s efforts, the Indian Country, which Winamac resulted in over 3 million acres of Potawatomi received an increased and other older chiefs resented. They Native lands opening to non-Native The Potawatomi “were led by Winamac, amount of trade goods, which many encouraged Native Americans to band settlement, but it also increased U.S. perennial friend of the United States, needed to overcome the recent together against white encroachment and Native American tensions, laying who earlier had assured Harrison harsh winters. Yet, the additional and reject the United States’ authority. the groundwork for the War of 1812. that all the tribes would be willing provisions failed to gain the approval Winamac’s pro-American stance Turmoil over land rights ensued, and to cede the lands. Notably absent of all Potawatomi. Instead, Winamac’s fueled many young warriors to less than three decades after signing were such other friendly chiefs as actions at Fort Wayne caused flock to Prophestown, Indiana, and the treaty, the government forcibly Five Medals and Keesass, who feared disharmony, and younger leaders follow the Shawnee brothers. removed most of the tribes involved retaliation by their younger warriors if became increasingly upset with his, and to lands west of the Mississippi. they agreed to a land cession,” wrote other chiefs’, pro-American stance. According to The Potawatomis: Keepers R. David Edmunds in his book The of the Fire, “Estimates of the number Learn more about this era in Potawatomi Potawatomis: Keepers of the Fire. After signing the Treaty of Fort Wayne, of Indians at Prophetstown varied history by touring the Citizen Winamac continued serving as a United greatly, from 650 to nearly 3,000, but Potawatomi Nation’s Cultural Heritage However, the Miami were not States ally, and fellow Potawatomi by all accounts they posed a formidable Center gallery Treaties: Words & Leaders supportive and refused to relinquish leaders Keesass and Five Medals also force capable of inundating white That Shaped Our Nationin-person or their land claims until Winamac maintained friendly relationships settlement in southern Indiana.” online at potawatomiheritage.com.

Veterans report Bozho ent the colors for an event at the Grand (Hello), Casino Hotel & Resort and a parade at the Wewoka Sorghum Festival. In September, Attention CPN veterans and veteran we have the Tecumseh Frontier Days Festi- spouses: I have an announcement to val Parade. You do not have to be a mem- make. The CPN Veterans Organization ber of the Veterans Organization to par- will begin having our monthly meetings ticipate in the parades with us. We have a again on Tuesday, Sept. 21, in the trailer, since several of our members can North Reunion Hall at 6 p.m., or as no longer march and carry a flag, myself soon as you can get there. Pizza will be served. Remember, all CPN veterans and included. All you need is your own lawn spouses with their families are welcome. chair. It’s a great feeling to see the support we get from the kids and adults watching The CPN Veterans Organization’s us pass by. It really makes you feel proud. Color Guard has begun presenting the CPN veterans and spouses, please join colors at events. We have lost several us. If you can’t make it to the upcoming of our active members. Some have events, we will be participating in others moved away, and others have walked in the future and welcome you to join us. on. All will be greatly missed. The parades and presenting the colors at Migwetch events are our way of representing (Thank you), the Citizen Potawatomi Nation. Daryl Talbot, Commander We have a number of events planned for [email protected] our color guard. In October, we will pres- 405-275-1054 HOWNIKAN SEPTEMBER 2021 3 Potawatomi in the White House After the 2020 election, Vice President After his mother Helene passed away that helped pave the way for the Kamala Harris has gained notoriety as in 1863, Curtis’ grandmother Julie demise of the Indian nations and the first Black and Asian-American, as raised him for some time on the Kaw for the statehood of Oklahoma.” well as woman, to hold the position. reservation. He learned French and However, Harris is not the first Kansa before English, which helped The Kansas legislature elected Curtis as person of color to serve as the United Curtis fit in with other Kaw children. a senator in 1907, and he served in this States’ second in command. That capacity until 1913. Instead of state title goes to Charles Curtis, a citizen During this time, tribes across Kansas legislatures appointing senators, the of the Kaw Nation, who became the experienced raids by other Native 17th amendment extended the right to nation’s vice president in 1929 under Americans, and the Kaw reservation voters. He received the popular vote in President Herbert Hoover. Lesser was no exception. Curtis experienced 1914 and became a senator once more in known is Curtis’ Potawatomi lineage. this first hand, gaining notoriety for 1915, serving in this capacity until 1929. warning the people of Topeka of an Background active attack by the Cheyenne, traveling “During his time in the Senate he became nearly 60 miles by foot to raise the alarm. even more influential. He eventually Curtis grew up in the Topeka, Kansas, worked his way up to Senate majority area. Born in 1860 to Helene and A biography published by the United leader in 1925 where he was known Oran Curtis, he was a citizen of States Senate said, “The incident also for his ability to accomplish results for the Kaw Nation, but his maternal convinced his paternal grandparents, both progressives and conservatives,” grandparents Julie (Gonvil) and William and Permelia Curtis, that their according to a Visit Topeka blog post Louis Pappan had ties to several grandson should be raised in the more titled Charles Curtis: The moment tribes, including the Potawatomi. ‘civilized’ atmosphere of Topeka rather Charles Curtis, first vice president of color. a people gained representation. than to return to the reservation.” According to family records, Curtis’ empty U.S. House of Representatives Curtis put his name on the Republican great-grandfather, Louis Gonvil — also Curtis moved to Topeka and developed position. He worked to build up the ticket to run for president but lost. The spelled Gonville — was Potawatomi, a hobby around horse racing, riding as a public’s support, and in 1892, became an winning nominee, Herbert Hoover, French and Canadian, and his great- jockey from 1869 to 1876. His reputation elected U.S. Representative. He served selected Curtis as his vice-presidential grandmother, Waisjasi was Kaw. as “The Indian Boy” spread across the in the House from 1893 to 1907 and candidate. Curtis spent the election Kansas circuit. His paternal grandfather played a key role on the Committee speaking across the country, and the Curtis’ grandmother Julie received passed away in 1873, and Curtis attempt- on Indian Affairs. In 1898, he drafted duo won the 1928 general election. some acreage known as the Half-Breed ed to travel with his Pappan family from his most notorious piece of legislation, Reservation No. Four along the Kansas the Curtis Act, which extended the He not only became the first Native the Kansas Kaw reservation to present-day American to hold vice presidential office, (Kaw) River through an 1825 treaty. His Oklahoma. However, his grandmother Dawes Act of 1887 to apply to the Five grandfather Louis and great-uncles Joseph Civilized Tribes of Indian Territory. but he was also the first from the state of Julie encouraged him to stay in Kansas to Kansas and west of the Mississippi River. and Ahcan were Canadians from St. Louis, get an education. He eventually graduat- According to the Oklahoma Historical Hoover and Curtis were not elected to Missouri, with a family background in ed high school, studied law and became Society, “The Curtis Act dealt a blow a second term, and Curtis retired from trade. The three brothers married three a member of the Kansas Bar Associa- to the governmental autonomy of the public office. He remains today as the Gonvil sisters: Julie, Josette and Victoire. tion in 1881. Three years later, Curtis Five Tribes, but the act was merely the only Native American to serve as the became the Shawnee County attorney, The Pappan brothers erected a ferry culmination of legislation designed vice president of the United States. which jump-started his political career. business on the allotted property to strip tribal governments of their in 1842. It became an important Public service authority and give it to Congress and/ crossing for those traveling west on or the federal government. Ironically, the California and Oregon trails and In 1889, one vote separated Curtis Charles Curtis, himself of Indian proved successful for many years. from winning the nomination to fill an blood, was responsible for the act Resources highlight the Trail of Death

The Potawatomi Trail of Death began stop and remember and reflect and as the Citizen Potawatomi Nation’s Sept. 4, 1838. More than 850 Tribal honor our ancestors for the struggles Cultural Heritage Center director. members walked 660-miles from that they went through because if Indiana to Kansas at gun point, and English artist George Winter captured 42 died along the way, mostly elders the only known first-hand images of and children. The Potawatomi lacked Native American removal during the Trail access to supplies, with starvation and of Death. This book features Winter’s illness commonplace throughout the sketches, paintings, drawings and removal and at the new reservation. watercolor artwork that highlight the Written and visual records provide Potawatomi shortly before and during insight into this turbulent time and the forced removal. Although no longer help present-day Potawatomi remember in active print, numerous online retailers and honor their ancestors’ trials. have the book available for purchase. “When you have those resources and Federal official William Polke overlooked those memories, it is your duty to the forced emigration of Potawatomi through the Trail of Death. Polke’s journal provides insight into some of the day-to-day experiences the Potawatomi faced along the arduous 660-mile journey. Several online retailers sell the Journal of An Emigrating Party of Pottawatomie Indians: Indiana Magazine Of History, December 1925. Access A Continuation of the Journal of an Emigrating Party The Trail Of Death: Letters Of Benjamin of Potawatomi Indians, 1838, and Ten Marie Petit by Irving McKee William Polke Manuscripts through written records. Find this resource Journal of An Emigrating Party research databases and libraries. online and through research databases. of Pottawatomie Indians: Indiana Additionally, excerpts from Polke’s journal Magazine Of History, December 1925 are published online at cpn.news/polke. Dive deeper into the Trail of Father Benjamin Marie Petit served as a Death’s history by utilizing the they didn’t push through the next day, Catholic missionary to the Potawatomi Cultural Heritage Center’s archives if they didn’t take one more step, if and traveled with them on the Trail of at potawatomiheritage.com or they didn’t hold their children close Death. His journal entries across the touring its gallery Forced From for one more night, we wouldn’t be three months included records of births, Land and Culture: Removal. Indians and a Changing Frontier: here,” said Dr. Kelli Mosteller in a 2020 deaths and spiritual aspects, providing a The Art of George Winter Hownikan interview. Dr. Mosteller serves slightly different viewpoint than Polke’s 4 SEPTEMBER 2021 HOWNIKAN Clardy family history

The Citizen Potawatomi Nation’s Cultural approved June 22, 1874, for educational deputy United States marshal, and Heritage Center provides resources purpose be given to these Indians who before her passing in 1958, Annie was to keep the Tribe’s history safe and were destitute of educational funds.” the eldest member of Our Lady of accessible for generations to come. One Victory Catholic Church in Purcell. key way the Nation does this is through Because of his efforts, construction the CHC’s archives. To highlight some of completed on a school near Clardyville Carrie B. married a pharmacist named these holdings, the Hownikan is featuring on Dec. 18, 1875, totaling $1,719. W. H. Collister and eventually became a photographs and family history of every Due to the materials used, many city welfare investigator in Kansas City. founding Citizen Potawatomi family. referred to it as the “Stone School She passed away in 1958 at the age of 86. If interested in assisting preservation House.” William Brown served as efforts by providing copies of Citizen the teacher for $50 per month. Lucy Deem married William Diltz Potawatomi family photographs, Deem in 1901. Lucy sold her 79-acre According to an article published in documents and more, please contact Potawatomi allotment in November 1917. the Shawnee News-Star in 1997 titled the CHC at 405-878-5830. Small county town moved many times, Benjamin represented the Tribe at the Potawatomi connections “In 1876 it had an enrollment of 103 Oklahoma Territorial Legislature. Family students. It closed after only one year.” oral records indicate Benjamin and wife Isabella Anastasia Bertrand, born in Mae Clardy operated a boarding house Clardyville became known as Oberlin Bertrand, Michigan, on April 11, 1837, in Shawnee, and he helped charter on April 25, 1876, and changed once was the daughter of Joseph Bertrand Jr. the Pottawatomie County Historical more to Wagoza on July 18, 1881. The and Elizabeth Jackson. The Bertrands Society. He also became active in the were a prominent Potawatomi trade school’s roof was then used to help construct the town’s dance hall. Tribe, serving on the business committee family in the Great Lakes region. for numerous years. Prior to the Bureau Isabella married Joshua E. Clardy in Ben and May Clardy Forging a new path of Indian Affairs approving Benjamin’s 1859 at St. Mary’s Mission on the business committee position, he said Potawatomi reservation in Kansas. succeed in supporting their families. The obvious challenges of living in a state After a near-fatal attack at his store, that he was “an abstainer to the use of Joshua and family returned to the Through the Treaty of 1861, the Clardy that was hostile to its Indian population, intoxicants and tobacco; owns a good safety of Kansas where he built a family decided to obtain a parcel of like Kansas was, induced some to move. home; had a high school education; strong reputation in the newspaper land in Kansas and the chance to It also motivated them to stick together has been fifteen years in the insurance industry. He owned and operated become U.S. citizens. Although the in their new homes. Most of these business, … and fifteen or sixteen Pottawatomie Chief out of St. Marys and treaty included provisions for the earliest arrivals settled together in a small years speculating in real estate, with an The Kansas Agriculturist in Wamego. Potawatomi to receive farm equipment community they called Pleasant Prairie average income of $100 per month.” and a grace period on taxes, the federal near the center of the reservation.” Isabella and Joshua had seven During Benjamin’s time in Tribal government did not uphold the children: Benjamin Joseph E., Albert In southern Pottawatomie County near leadership, he helped represent the agreements. Many Potawatomi lost Merrell, Annie Bertrand, William, present-day Asher, Isabella became Nation in Washington D.C., fighting their lands to the inability to pay taxes Joshua, Carrie B. and Lucy. or successfully establish agricultural the community’s first postmaster and for Citizen Potawatomi rights. endeavors. This prompted the Tribe served as the town’s namesake, officially William followed in his father’s footsteps to sign a second treaty in 1867 that established Feb. 15, 1857. Ten days later, and helped with the family printing Joshua and Isabella Clardy’s descendants provided the ability to purchase a new the town’s name changed to Clardyville. companies in Kansas. Eventually he continue the family tradition of creativity, reservation in present-day Oklahoma. returned to Indian Territory though. ingenuity and service to the Tribe. At the same time, Joshua operated In 1887, he had a business at Sacred CPN members can engage in According to family records, “Joshua E. a trading post on his allotment. Heart, and in 1890, moved to Purcell genealogical research, build family Clardy, also known as ‘Judge’ Clardy, was where he served as the community’s Although few resources existed in the trees and connect with CPN relatives with his family one of the first settlers postmaster beginning in 1894. of Potawatomi County, Oklahoma.” newly-settled Potawatomi reservation, through Mezodanek (family) digital Joshua believed educating Potawatomi Albert married Rose Marie Burt and database at portal.potawatomi.org. The Shawnee News-Star’s 2013 magazine children was important. According to found a career in the oil industry, titled Our Native Traditions said, The Chronicles of Oklahoma, “On March which eventually took him to the Texas If interested in helping preserve “Fourteen wagons filled with supplies and 23, 1875, J. E. Clardy, delegate of the panhandle, according to family records. Citizen Potawatomi history and eager, yet anxious, Citizen Potawatomi Citizen of Potawatomi wrote a letter culture by providing copies of set out for their new homes in Indian to the Commissioner of Indian Affairs Annie married William Boyer in 1886, family photographs, documents and Territory with little idea about what they requesting that a portion of the funds set and they had one child, William Francis more, contact the Cultural Heritage would encounter and how they would aside by the Indian Appropriation Bill, Boyer, in 1887. William served as a Center at 405-878-5830. Accountant, mother of five completes career milestone The notoriously difficult Uniform proves I do know what I’m doing — “I want to be the best at my job, and Certified Public Accountant Examination hopefully,” Sitton said and laughed. having my CPA means that I am has a pass rate of 50 percent. Citizen knowledgeable in all those areas, Potawatomi Nation general ledger “It keeps me busy, and then it’s also and I want to be able to give my auditor April Sitton completed the just nice to feel that I’m trusted with job ... all I can to help the Tribe test in October 2020 and became what I got and that I can do my job.” grow, help the Tribe succeed and a CPA, joining the Tribe’s CFO as help in anything I can,” she said. She intended to begin preparing for department staff with the credentials. the exam in 2016, but as a mother of Not one to shy away from The Choctaw Nation citizen five, time evaded her. Sitton’s intense a challenge, Sitton hopes to graduated with a bachelor’s degree studying started in summer 2019 with inspire her children as well. in accounting from Southeastern the completion of all four tests a year Oklahoma State University in 2013. and a half later. Stacks of index cards “I want to show my kids that you can and notebooks lined her bags everywhere set your mind to anything and get it “I fell in love with my first accounting she went. She downloaded three apps to done, even if you do have a dozen other class — financial accounting,” Sitton study whenever a moment came and fell things going on in your life,” she said. said. “I loved it, loved it. I loved the asleep to accounting audiobooks at night. debits, I loved the credits, and I loved Her quest for knowledge continues how it was set in stone. Like there was “You do have to know a lot of formulas as she frequently tunes into webinars no gray areas, at least at that point.” and stuff, but a lot of it’s memorization. and takes courses to sharpen her And then I don’t think I ever wrote April Sitton serves Citizen Potawatomi skills. More certifications remain She then completed a master’s in that much in my life. My hand hurt Nation as a certified public accountant on the horizon; however, she plans business administration in 2015 at times, but I had to spend more after passing a rigorous set of tests. to enjoy her accomplishment for a and counts this new certification time studying as well,” Sitton said. while before tackling the next. as the next major step in her as a general ledger accountant in professional development. Working for a Tribe with varied services, 2014. Her co-workers supported and “It’s a hard test. And I’m really glad I’m enterprises and funding mechanisms has encouraged her while she continued done — so relieved,” Sitton said. “It’s given me more responsibilities here proven interesting and insightful for her. school and the CPA certification. Sitton because I do have that certificate that Sitton joined the accounting department now gives her knowledge back. HOWNIKAN SEPTEMBER 2021 5 Tribal member honored through memorial scholarship Citizen Potawatomi Nation veterans legacy of being a warrior into context have a legacy of service to their country and really think that through.” and Tribe. For Michael John Kennedy, his giving spirit lives on even after his Kennedy was buried in Oklahoma passing in late May 2021 through a at Fort Gibson National Cemetery newly formed memorial scholarship. in honor of his service. At a service of remembrance in June, Legacies Tribal Vice-Chairman Linda Capps announced the CPN Department While Kennedy attended Bacone of Education’s new scholarship College in Muskogee, Oklahoma, for available in fall 2021 for children a time, he never graduated. Carlile felt and grandchildren of Tribal veterans. he would have enjoyed helping the next Funded by his estate, the Michael John generation of Potawatomi and veterans’ Kennedy Scholarship is the Nation’s descendants finish their degrees. first memorial award for education. “It’s just something people can “It is such a beautiful way to give to have the rest of their lives. They’re your Nation and to leave a lasting educated. They don’t take that legacy,” said Tesia Zientek, department away from them,” Carlile said. of education director. “I never got an opportunity to meet Michael, but in a “Conversations that we’ve had over way, his generosity has really touched a period of time, I think education me personally as well because now I was very important to him.” can see how his life and his passing Kennedy lived in Tribal elder housing are going to affect several Potawatomi for almost the last two decades of his students for years to come.” life. He and Powell were neighbors, and When setting requirements for the she knew him the entire time he lived scholarship, Zientek and Bob Carlile, the there. She feels the scholarship honors executor of Kennedy’s estate, prioritized him in a way that aligns with his values. selecting a junior or senior undergraduate “One of Michael’s passions was to each year as the recipient of $1,000. read. He loved to read. … He and “It is true that there are more scholarships (neighbor) John Burgett shared books that focus on first-time freshmen. So back and forth a lot,” Powell said. for there to be one that specifically focuses on students more advanced in She also remembers him as reserved, their studies, I think that is something unselfish and “one of a kind.” Although a bit unique,” Zientek said. he enjoyed his introversion, Kennedy showed a soft spot for those closest to Warriors him with phone calls and small gifts.

Native Americans serve in the armed Navy veteran and Kennedy and Regnier family descendant “He may not be right there in your forces at a higher rate than any other Michael John Kennedy (Photo provided) face all the time, but he was definitely segment of the population, and Kennedy a caring person,” Powell said. followed in his father’s footsteps “When he was in Vietnam, he spent now and in government policy. So I when he enlisted. Carlile, Capps a lot of time traveling with the Navy think it exemplifies the fighting spirit of This memorial scholarship reflects and Zientek want the scholarship Seals … traveling up and down those the Citizen Potawatomi Nation, and I’m that trait, contributing directly to reach several generations linked rivers. Also spent a lot of time with the excited to see how each person expresses to Tribal members’ education. to military service members. Vietnamese people themselves,” she said. that relationship in their words.” “I think this is going to be a “People of Vietnam Era, they all have The department set high expectations The essay also presents an opportunity for really amazing opportunity for grandchildren now. ... This way, it covers with their application requirements, applicants to research the Tribe and its students,” Zientek said. a larger class of people,” Carlile said. including a 3.0 GPA. Students must history and perhaps talk to their family also submit an essay about how members about their military service. The department of education As a young man, Kennedy served in the modern or historical Potawatomi accepts applications for the Michael Navy for 12 years during the Vietnam warriors impact the Nation. “We had a lot of really strong warriors John Kennedy Scholarship from War. He took pride in his military who helped us maintain our territories, July 15 through Sept. 15. Apply background and talked to his friend and “It doesn’t necessarily have to be culture and sovereignty,” Zientek online through the CPN portal at fellow Tribal elder housing resident Mary militaristic in nature,” Zientek said. “We said. “So I think this is a really portal.potawatomi.org. Find more Powell some about his deployment. fight a lot of battles in the courtroom exciting way for people to put that opportunities at cpn.news/education. 6 SEPTEMBER 2021 HOWNIKAN CPN public health nurse serves family Citizen Potawatomi Nation Health it back for nothing. I learned a lot heritage and other Tribal members after Services welcomed Dakota LeClaire and saw a lot of things, met a lot of spending a few months as an employee. as the new East Clinic public health nice people. But it was rough.” nurse in March 2021. He graduated “If (patients) are Potawatomi, they’ll give with an associate of science in nursing The need for change took over this me a background of their story, and from Seminole State College in spring; however, he said working in they’ll kind of tell me things about the spring 2020. LeClaire’s professional a COVID unit gave him years of Tribe, teach me things. They’ll invite experience speaks for itself, covering experience in a short amount of time. me to events at the Tribe,” he said. emergency room, hospital, surgical and public health nursing. “I think once I left there, I was kind LeClaire now participates in Tribal of like, ‘Man, I feel like I can conquer activities more; he voted for the first “I just love to help other people. ... anything. If I can do that, then I can do time ahead of General Council this It’s like an adrenaline rush almost anything.’ Because getting thrown into a summer. He also enjoys meeting new when I help other people. It just pandemic right out of nursing school is people on an almost daily basis — and makes you feel good,” he said. kind of crazy, but it worked out,” he said. even new relatives. LeClaire’s great- aunt helps him with their genealogy. LeClaire knew he wanted to become a Prevention nurse at 11 years old. His stepmother “I always talk to her about all of it and had twins 10 weeks early, and the LeClaire wanted to work for CPNHS, then hearing other people’s, and then family spent a significant amount and after seeing patients through you kind of link together. You’re kind of time in the ICU. The nurses’ their darkest times, transitioning to of related in some ways, and you’re dedication to their care inspired him. preventive medicine became appealing. kind of like, ‘Oh, OK. So you’re like my sixth cousin, somehow.’ It’s “I like to see like the brighter side of “I think just seeing … them interact with Dakota LeClaire finds the opportunity to been kind of cool,” LeClaire said. them and seeing how much my stepmom things … because I feel like if I do something positive in the beginning, serve fellow CPN tribal members rewarding and my dad appreciated it. I was like, ‘I through his medical career at the Nation. He and his wife Maddie both serve want to do that someday. I want to make that it hopefully won’t lead to (a patient) Indian Country as public health a difference someday,’” LeClaire said. going to the hospital or getting sick in Since starting with CPNHS, he has nurses, and caring for Indigenous the future if they don’t get the certain seen the other side of COVID-19 people gives their service-oriented Pandemic vaccine or all that stuff,” LeClaire said. while assisting with three of the professions extra meaning. Tribe’s mass-vaccination clinics. After graduation, he began working His time at the East Clinic has expanded “I think it makes it better knowing at Integris Baptist Medical Center his knowledge on the “brighter side” “The patients were happy. People who that I’m helping my Tribe and helping in Oklahoma City. He enjoyed his already, giving him the chance to came in were happy. All the staff other Natives, because with access to position working on a surgical floor work with all ages on their vaccines, seemed happy,” LeClaire said. “It was health care, if they can’t afford it or if for neurology and orthopedics until asthma action plans, ear cleanings just very organized and smooth, and they can’t get it somewhere else, they the coronavirus pandemic stretched and anything else they need. they had the kinks to work out. But I know they come to us and count on medical resources to their limits. The mean, obviously, that’s with anything us to give it to them,” LeClaire said. “It’s kind of nice getting to see the hospital turned the specialized unit into you do. ... But it was overall just great.” a COVID-19 ward in November 2020, same patients and kind of getting One day, he hopes to pursue his which LeClaire described as a “war zone.” to know them,” LeClaire said. “And Participation education further and become they know me, so they’re comfortable. a nurse practitioner. “I was kind of just thrown into it, and And they learn how I do things. … Throughout his childhood, LeClaire it was an experience for sure,” he Everyone has a better experience visited CPNHS doctors and attended the Find out more about Citizen said. “It had its ups and its downs. It when they know the person that’s annual Family Reunion Festival with his Potawatomi Nation Health was an experience. I wouldn’t take going to be taking care of them.” family. He feels more connected to his Services at cpn.news/health. Park project educates on empowerment By Kayla Woody, House of Hope of Health and Human Services stated DVPI Prevention Specialist that children who witness violence in the home between parents may be at greater It’s summertime, and parks are back risk of exhibiting violence in their future open for families to enjoy the outdoors. relationships. By providing educational The CPN House of Hope has taken tools, like this project, families can full advantage of this opportunity and learn the healthiest ways to overcome initiated the Hands Are for Helping conflict and stop the cycle of abuse. project to educate youngsters on the importance of playing safely without The House of Hope encourages families violence. It was developed to help assist to look out for these signs while out parents teach their children the best and about at the park. Use the time ways to overcome conflict without a as an opportunity to provide children physical altercation. We placed signs instructions on playing safely and at many major parks and playgrounds treating others with kindness. If you across Pottawatomie County with tips need more information on healthy on how to empower children with relationships, you can find the House of knowledge about healthy relationships. Hope online at cpnhouseofhope.com. Some of these tips include teaching If you or someone you know is children about different feelings, experiencing intimate partner violence, practice/model good communication, stalking, and/or sexual assault and would and ways to create opportunities for like more information, please contact your child to play safely with others. the House of Hope at 405-275-3176 The House of Hope’s main objective with appropriate, effective services and has a huge impact on the children that or reach out on social media at is to eliminate domestic violence by programs. Domestic violence is not are living in the home and witness the facebook.com/cpnhouseofhope. providing victims and the community something that just affects couples. It also abuse over time. The U.S. Department HOWNIKAN SEPTEMBER 2021 7 Self-Care Awareness Month brings together ways to focus

As a licensed professional counselor, “Specifically, we show that chronically Rickey Whisenhunt works with stressed individuals have impaired Citizen Potawatomi Nation Behavioral problem-solving performance and that Health patients on their self-care and self-affirmation can boost problem- affirmations as tools to improve their solving performance under pressure.” mental health. He encourages people to spend time on themselves, and Self- Whisenhunt’s tips Care Awareness Month in September is Whisenhunt often helps patients an excellent time to create new habits. develop self-care routines or return “We don’t stop for self-care to old ones. He has found it easier to enough. We care for others but not stick to something with an outcome. ourselves,” Whisenhunt said. “We sometimes need to have specific He has seen individual expectations goals about self-care. Some of us increase throughout his 15-year don’t put specific goals to those. career. Patients regularly tell him of And it may be about taking care troubles sleeping, show him schedules of one specific thing,” such as that fill every hour and express getting a manicure or decorating a overwhelming pressure. Whisenhunt reading nook, Whisenhunt said. believes at those times, self-care The imagination provides an untapped becomes even more essential. source of relaxation for many “You’re not turning all the lights off, people. He encourages clients to getting all the electronics turned take vacations; however, imagining off and relaxing your body at an one sometimes works as well. appropriate time. Sometimes we do “Just planning a vacation and kind of adjustments in schedules in counseling living a vacation, even in our minds, to begin our treatment … to get our is very therapeutic because it’s a sleep in and get healthier habits so visualization of something that’s very self-care is implemented,” he said. relaxing, and you kind of plan it out He presents many ways to help calm and maybe kind of live it,” Whisenhunt the body and mind, such as repeating said. “And it’s very calming to kind of an affirmational phrase to limit go through the whole process and then stimulation from the outside world. maybe kind of experience it. And it kind of takes your blood pressure down and Positively Potawatomi kind of gives you just a little experience.” (I am blessed) offer ways to “Write your affirmations as if they are CPN Department of Language Director connect with traditions through already happening,” she wrote. “This Some patients feel they waste their time Justin Neely worked with the Empowered self-care. Expressing thankfulness means affirming, ‘I am happy and with self-care, and overcoming that Youth Development Initiatives to helps exude positivity as well. confident,’ instead of ‘Two months from way of thinking presents an obstacle. develop a list of encouraging words. He now, I will be happy and confident.’” Whisenhunt recommends starting small. translated positive phrases from Ojibwe “We can use affirmations for every to Potawatomi to reflect both cultures. problem — when something’s going For example, Potawatomi phrases “Try it twice a week to start out with, wrong. We can use affirmations for a such as Nmishkwes (I have inner then move up to three, maybe even “We’re a very positive people,” he situation when we’re in trouble, when strength) or Gminwéwes (You are a four days a week. Do it at your pace. said. “We definitely believe that good we’re needing a pep talk. We use hard worker) serve all these functions. Do it slowly. Move up if you can. I things happen in the way that we live affirmations when we’re getting ready for know you’re hard-working. You’ve our lives. I think that is even exhibited a battle, for sports,” Whisenhunt said. A study published in a peer- got kids. It’s a challenge, but it’s very when we put down tobacco and we reviewed medical journal PLOS important. … Make it a priority,” he said. thank that plant, or we thank that Writing affirmations highlighted a study showing the more animal for giving its life so that we can practical effects of affirmation. Find out more about Citizen live. We’re a very thankful people, and In an article for Psychology Today, Potawatomi Nation’s Behavioral Health at the same time, we’re a very caring and Kathryn J Lively, Ph.D., outlines some “The present study provides the services at cpn.news/CPNBH. compassionate people to one another.” soft rules for developing affirmational first evidence that self-affirmation phrases. She recommends writing them can protect against the deleterious Phrases such as Gmnowabmenagwes in the present and the first person with effects of stress on problem-solving (You are beautiful) and Nzhewéndagwes both a positive and emotional charge. performance,” researchers said.

First Americans Museum continued... Many volunteers are also Native American, and Zientek feels excited about First National Bank the inclusion and opportunity to serve. The second gallery, Winiko: Life of an Object, features 140 pieces from the “It’s important to me that Indigenous welcomes Scott Kemp Smithsonian National Museum of people are driving FAM’s exhibits and programming, and I’m even more By Payton Moody prepared him for the new position the American Indians. In the 1900s, NMAI curated many of the featured passionate to see Citizen Potawatomi as senior lending officer, which citizens contributing to the effort. Our Scott Kemp is the new senior lending he accepted in June 2021. items from Oklahoma, and they are officer at The First National Bank & returning as part of the exhibit. Tribe wasn’t originally from Oklahoma, Trust Co. of Shawnee, Oklahoma. Kemp Kemp also likes to keep spontaneity but we are here now, and I want our brings a high degree of knowledge flowing in his private life, as he “It’s a real homecoming of sorts that those voices to be heard and faces seen,” she said. to First National Bank, thanks to his people are able to touch and handle the endeavors into various outdoor pursuits. While opening weekend seems like the end years of experience in the sector. During his leisure time, he enjoys objects that were their ancestors directly. And so that’s been a really powerful of a long-awaited goal, the staff perceives paragliding and hang gliding as well “The best part about commercial lending experience to see that connection of today it as the opportunity to teach everyone as golfing, weightlifting and watching is the diversity in customers and loan and yesterday together,” Underwood said. about Indigenous peoples and turn requests,” Kemp said. “Each request the Ultimate Fighting Championship. visitors into allies for a greater purpose. Leadership and inclusion is unique, so you gain experience First National Bank & Trust Co. of as a lender, and it ensures that the “Long story short, we’re just really glad Shawnee and its employees congratulate FAM focuses on the present and future, to be able to open our doors finally job never gets boring.” He enjoys and welcome Scott Kemp. He will do an the variety his career allows, which thanks in large to an almost entirely and to be able to share with the world excellent job as senior lending officer. keeps his daily routine interesting. Native staff who dedicate themselves the value of First Americans and our to telling first-person accounts of contributions to society, not in the First National Bank & Trust Co. has Kemp previously worked in both large such a diverse set of cultures. past but also today,” Underwood said. commercial and community banking locations in Shawnee, Midwest City, sectors and held regional management Oklahoma City, Holdenville, Lawton, “The power dynamic is very different Opening weekend is Sept. 18 roles at Union Bank and Wells Fargo. Mangum, Canute and Granite, when you have Native people telling and 19. Tickets and full details are Oklahoma. To learn more about FNB their own stories,” Lalli Hills said. “So available at famok.org. Find First His degree of expertise and knowledge accounts, products and services, visit one I believe deeply in the mission of this Americans Museum on Facebook, of banking and accounting processes of its 10 branches or visit fnbokla.com. institution and in the exhibition projects.” Twitter and Instagram. 8 SEPTEMBER 2021 HOWNIKAN Land acknowledgments foster education, allyship

While a common practice throughout forced removal. Many Potawatomi Canada, land acknowledgments were forcibly removed from the Great remain a new concept in much Lakes region to reservations in Iowa and of the United States. Kansas, and eventually, took individual allotments in present-day Oklahoma — The Native American and Indigenous all of which occurred over four decades. Initiatives at Northwestern University defines land acknowledgment as “a Black refers to the story of Native formal statement that recognizes America as a “story of dispossession.” and respects Indigenous Peoples as traditional stewards of this land Some land acknowledgments use and the enduring relationship that formal presentations with visuals exists between Indigenous Peoples to explain these complicated facets and their traditional territories.” of North America’s history to replace ignorance with a desire to Some academics and Native-focused learn more and become an ally. nonprofits encourage them as a way to engage with the Indigenous peoples “A jaded person might say, ‘Oh, this upon whose property their work and is just a statement that is being lives depend. As there are many layers read.’ But I see in that that you’re to tribal histories, cultures and current planting the seed for supporting those affairs, these statements exist with tribes’ sovereignty,” Black said. various purposes and potentials. Fostering dialogue for the reclamation Quality messaging of Indigenous populations’ land is the ultimate goal. Briefly explaining laws Speakers, teachers and community leaders and treaties moves discussions from generally prepare these acknowledgments emotional claims to lawful ones. for the beginnings of large gatherings, including meetings, lectures, sporting “To document that and give voice to events, graduations and much more. that, and then to visualize that, to show that with statistics, this is all incredibly Cherokee Nation citizen and Indiana powerful in that it’s proving that University professor Liza Black dispossession. And it’s also potentially believes this aspect of repatriation I acknowledge the bloodshed, they celebrate their culture and making land claims based on the means is important. She gives one at the and violence, and hurt the events that led to it. of that dispossession,” Black said. beginning of each of her classes. of those who raised this land “It’s part of establishing relations While that seems like a lofty goal, “I mean, if we’re going to have the and cradled its dirt. with local tribes. It’s part of learning she finds strength in repetition. Pledge of Allegiance, why can’t we have how to say tribes’ names in their a land acknowledgment?” she said. I acknowledge that I stand here now own language,” Black said. “You are acknowledging the sovereignty of these nations on the ground upon Black begins her general education and it is to the true founders of “It should be a sense of seeing the world which you stand, and this increases courses on Native American history this land that I am endowed. more fully, of seeing home more fully. awareness. And if you’re doing this with an assignment for each student Instead of seeing where you grew up as at public functions with people to write one about their hometown You now must acknowledge that who are in power to do something this land still contains hope, this one-dimensional or two-dimensional or the university. She emphasized space, it’s like seeing that history helps about said sovereignty, this can all most complete ones are heartfelt, and that perhaps we can begin to sever you see it three-dimensionally.” support it to that end,” Black said. historical, detailed and respectful. the noose born of settlers’ rope.” While writing, the author reflects on “How do you replicate that? How do you give voice to all of “I think (a land acknowledgment) Minneapolis, Minnesota, based the various ways Indigenous peoples that? But you have to try.” should be moving. I think it should organization The Native Governance and Europeans perceive land’s purpose be compelling. I think it should Center emphasizes these pieces’ and their right to it. It helps them put have an emotional element to it. She hopes that various institutions, effectiveness exists outside of a full societal issues between Native Nations groups and governments normalize land That doesn’t mean you have to use explanation of history or grimness. and the government in a new context. emotional language. I think it can acknowledgments in the next 10 years. have an emotional element by just “They should function as living “In general, Europeans and people of Native-land.ca offers a map that being really detailed about those celebrations of Indigenous communities,” European descent saw land as an asset shows traditional and present lands of layers of displacement,” she said. the nonprofit said. “Ask yourself, ‘How and saw land as something marketable. Indigenous peoples, with options to view am I leaving Indigenous people in And Native people saw and still see Some show passion and ingenuity territories, languages or treaties. It also a stronger, more empowered place land very differently and more through for the project, including Madyson offers a text feature. Users can send a because of this land acknowledgment?’ a cultural lens, a spiritual lens, a zip code or city and state (separated by Lorch, who wrote one in the form utilitarian lens, a tribal lens, but not so of a poem for Black’s course in fall Focus on the positivity of who a comma) to 907-312-5085 and receive Indigenous people are today.” much a capitalistic lens. And so I think the tribe(s) whose land it occupies. 2020. (The Hownikan has reprinted that’s part of it is just this incredible a portion with permission.) Black agreed and described them as clash over meaning,” Black said. To learn more about land a “living process,” meaning they call acknowledgments, including a “I acknowledge this land was taken from Tales of dispossession the Kiikaapoi and the Myaamia for frequent updates and exploration. guide for writing and research, visit cpn.news/nativegov and cpn.news/ Land acknowledgments also grapple with Meaning of land UCLAguide. Find a history of Citizen for the sake of the white man’s sovereignty and legalities. Many tribes Potawatomi Nation, including tainted academia. Preparing an acknowledgment entered into treaties with the United migrations and force removals, at I acknowledge the limestone includes research, both historical States government in an attempt to potawatomiheritage.com/history. that built this city and contemporary. It leads to an hold onto some piece of property that understanding of how various they have ancestral or legal rights to, was carried on the backs of those Indigenous nations function in including Citizen Potawatomi Nation. who received no empathy. the present day, including how Like many tribes, CPN experienced HOWNIKAN SEPTEMBER 2021 9 CPCDC partnership supports Shawnee growth

While many downtowns across Future America have died and stores remain empty and dilapidated, Shawnee’s With nearly a year under their belts, the is experiencing a rebirth. This is Ingrams and Hiltons said they hope thanks, in part, to businesses like to expand upon the former owners’ The Gathering Place Coffee Co. successes while continuing to run Bayly Botanicals and Fed+Well Kitchen With the help of the Citizen Potawatomi within the Gathering Place Coffee Co. Community Development Corporation, owners Rebecca and Jonathan Hilton “Our future goals are to really elevate and Jesse and Callie Ingram offer the customer experience with our Shawnee more than just a space to food offerings and the space in grab a cup of joe. The shop provides general. It’s already a great space, but a venue to connect and network. we really want to make it ours. Our patio was a first step,” Jesse said. “It’s been really fun to see downtown liven up,” Callie said. “It’s been really great to Its outdoor seating and tables be able to jump in and be a part of that.” provide an area for four-legged- friends and events as well as a calm, More than dollars and cents quaint location for fellowship.

Originally owned and operated by Ogee “I always hope when someone goes family descendant Aaron Hembree back there, they don’t realize they’re and wife Jamie, The Gathering Place in Shawnee,” Jesse said. “I want them Coffee Co. opened in November to feel like it’s a unique experience.” 2017. It quickly became a mainstay in downtown Shawnee for its high- Majority-owners Jesse and Callie Ingram with daughter They also look forward to extending quality coffee, teas, baked goods and Posy at The Gathering Place Coffee Co. collaboration efforts with local creative, laid-back atmosphere. businesses and entrepreneurs to those ‘whys’ to people and let them see are available to Citizen Potawatomi continue downtown Shawnee’s revival. The Ingrams moved their plant house the actual value in it,” Callie added. Nation members nationwide and any member of a federally recognized “Part of our ideology is we’re everybody’s and floral studio, Bayly Botanicals, CPCDC into the adjacent store space in 2019, tribe living in Oklahoma. biggest fan on Main Street, and part of what it takes to have successful and the Hiltons operated Fed+Well The Hiltons and Ingrams worked with “We wouldn’t have been able to do it partnerships is that we have each Kitchen, baking and selling delicious CPCDC Commercial Loan Officer without the CPCDC,” Jesse said, who desserts, pastries and more to the coffee other’s best interests in mind. We’re Felecia Freeman and other staff members is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation always supportive,” Jesse said. shop’s customers. As the Hembrees to complete a detailed business plan and majority owner of The Gathering looked for new opportunities in 2020, and finalize their loan application. Place Coffee Co. “Felecia … was the Learn more about the CPCDC at cpcdc. the Hiltons and Ingrams decided to best support. She has so much integrity org, and visit The Gathering Place Coffee partner together and expand both “We offer tailored resources and and honesty with the process. She Co. at 415 E. Main Street, Shawnee, OK businesses by acquiring The Gathering innovative underwriting strategies,” always had our best interest in mind.” 74801 and online at gpcoffeeco.com. Place Coffee Co.; however, they Freeman said of the CPCDC’s process. needed an understanding lender to “We look at our potential clients. We help turn their dreams into a reality. listen to them, and you can’t learn that from underwriting software.” “We had a really big, vested interest in making this place succeed, and we saw They took over operations from what it gave the community,” Callie said. the Hembrees after the CPCDC approved their loan in late 2020. After experiencing hurdles in securing a loan at a local financial “I was just sold on them from the institution, they decided to work very beginning,” Freeman said. with the CPCDC for its ability to see beyond merely assets and liabilities. “We’re lucky to have this in our community. It’s almost like a little “Banks don’t really care why you’re doing incubator, being that it’s got three what you’re doing or what you hope businesses, and it helps get kids to accomplish. They care about how and others thinking, ‘What could much security they have … whereas in I do in this community?’ I think the CPCDC, they want to account for that’s a great atmosphere.’” the (why) into the choice of whether or not to back your business,” Jesse said. The CPCDC exists to support Native American’s education, entrepreneurial “The four of us are very intentional and economic growth through access and heart driven, and so we have a to capital, financial education, capacity really big ‘why’ that drove us to even building, community development trying. It was really affirming to get and more. The CPCDC’s resources 10 SEPTEMBER 2021 HOWNIKAN Potawatomi Leadership Program Class of 2021 The 2021 Potawatomi Leadership Program participants spent the summer learning about the Citizen Potawatomi Nation virtually due to the pandemic. The 2021 class consisted of 23 members, and the Hownikan asked every participant some introductory questions. Meet 11 of them now:

Hannah Nystrom | Hometown: Topeka, Kansas With a long list of hobbies and interests, Hannah Nystrom most defines herself by her love of writing. As a junior at the University of Kansas, she double majors in both journalism and environmental science. Learning enough about her family history and culture to be able to write about it and pass it on drew her to the PLP. As a language enthusiast, Nystrom’s favorite part of the program was learning Potawatomi. She is also a certified scuba diver and played on her high school and collegiate women’s soccer teams. Most of her leadership skills came as captain during her junior and senior years of high school. “I learned I liked being vocal and having my voice heard as well as listening to others and making sure their voices are heard as well,” Nystrom said.

Jenan Cameranesi | Hometown: Palm Springs, California Jenan Cameranesi focuses on art and art history as a sophomore at Yale University. As a freshman, she acted as assistant stage manager for a couple of small theater department productions, which helped her define what she considers leadership attributes. “I tend to think of those who work directly within the community, those who work to not only lead but facilitate and collaborate,” she said. The Beaubien and Pearce family descendant applied to the program to learn more about her mother’s family, especially her great-grandfather. Her passion for artistic expression comes through in her favorite part of the PLP — craft classes, especially beading.

Jozelle Arenz | Hometown: Woodridge, Illinois Jozie Arenz applied to the PLP to expand on her knowledge of her Potawatomi heritage. The Hardin family descendant enjoyed the cultural teachings and felt connected to traditional medicines as a biology major at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. She hopes to attend medical school and serve Native Americans through health services, in particular, reproductive care. Whether she is leading the trombone section of her high school marching band, interning with the Morton Arboretum or facilitating meditation classes, Arenz shows leadership through passion. “Passion is contagious, and when you are led by someone who is passionate about a cause, activity, or skill, you become passionate too,” she said.

Maile Morrell | Hometown: Ewa Beach, Hawaii Maile Morell showed herself as a leader throughout high school as the secretary of student council and involvement with two student body publications. The Higbee descendant’s experiences showed her leadership comes down to grit and self-confidence. “Grit reveals not only one’s perseverance, but also an individual’s dedication, resilience, and courage. Self-confidence is another quality I associate with leaders because one needs to trust his/her own judgment and direction before one can expect the same from others,” she said. The University of Hawaii at Manoa sophomore studies psychology, dances ballet, enjoys writing letters and hopes to visit Japan or Korea. She enjoyed traditional crafts, especially beading, during the program.

Mary Hrenchir | Hometown: Paola, Kansas Mary Hrenchir remembers traveling to Tribal lands in Oklahoma to attend the Family Reunion Festival every summer as a child. She applied for the PLP to interact more and find a spot for herself that aligns with her skills, as both a leader and way to give back to CPN. “I think the most important quality in a leader is that they are not afraid to stand up for the people that they care about,” she said As a junior at the University of Kansas, the Schwartz family descendant studies business analytics. Hrenchir also plays the piano, draws, plays Dungeons and Dragons and watches cartoons. She enjoyed learning traditional Potawatomi songs and the history of the Tribe during the program.

Matthew Carney | Hometown: Lacey, Washington Although his father and aunt are both CPN legislators, Matthew Carney felt the PLP presented an opportunity to explore his identity and bridge the distance between Washington and CPN headquarters in Oklahoma. “Seeing the amount of pride and respect (my dad and aunt) have for their Native American roots has been really inspiring for me,” he said. Carney serves as a leader at his part-time job, using his communications skills and adaptability to succeed. The Juneau family descendant is a freshman at the University of Washington, Seattle, studying finance and information systems. He enjoyed learning about the Tribe’s enterprises and businesses.

Matt Dillon Higdon | Hometown: Tecumseh, Oklahoma Mueller family descendant Matt Dillon Higdon attended PLP to learn more about the Tribe’s history and traditional stories. As a junior studying history at Oklahoma Baptist University, he knows the importance of their preservation. Higdon believes leaders work to prepare and serve others. “Even though I do not know where my professional life will take me after college. I know that no matter where I end up I will want to mentor the next generation and lead others to better themselves and their community,” he said. Higdon participates in track and field, helps lead sports camps and enjoys archery. One of his favorite program activities was moccasin making.

MaryKate Godinez | Hometown: Orland Park, Illinois MaryKate Godinez is a Bourassa family descendant and a senior at Governors State University in University Park, Illinois. She studies psychology and names empathy as one of the most important qualities of a good leader — more important than passion and courage. “Leaders have to make decisions that impact groups of people, not just a select few,” she said. “In order to ensure the benefits of a decision outweigh the risks, leaders must have the ability to put themselves in others’ shoes.” Godinez applied to the PLP to learn the Potawatomi language and traditional ecological knowledge as well as connect with Tribal members her age. She also enjoys Beatles trivia and K-pop music. HOWNIKAN SEPTEMBER 2021 11

Payton Godinez | Hometown: Orland Park, Illinois As a senior at the University of Illinois at Chicago, Payton Godinez studies web design. She enjoys puzzles, logic problems and escapes room, always looking for a way to bring all of the pieces together, whether on the web or in real life. Godinez also enjoys boba tea, K-pop music, cartoons and video games. She applied for the PLP to take a bigger role in the Potawatomi community and learn more to keep her heritage alive. The Bourassa family descendant believes leadership and confidence go together. “Without self-confidence, it’s hard to motivate others and to have them believe in you,” she said. “Most importantly, I would say that a leader has to work with those that are following them.”

Kevin Huberty | Hometown: Elk River, Minnesota Kevin Huberty defines himself as friendly, quiet, yet interesting. He uses leadership while at his job at a car dealership, when he brings together communication, delegation and problem solving. “A strong leader needs to have integrity because if you can’t exhibit your honesty and strong morals nobody will trust you as a person,” he said. This fall, he begins his junior year at North Dakota State University studying finance. He applied to the PLP to get to know Tribal members his own age from across the country and enjoyed learning the history of the Nation, in particular. Huberty also enjoys outdoor activities, including hunting and fishing, sports and video games.

Grant Benson | Hometown: Edmond, Oklahoma Grant Benson begins his sophomore year at the University of Oklahoma this fall, studying industrial/systems engineering. The Milot family descendant plans to attend medical school and become a cardiologist or general surgeon, or work toward his MBA. He wants to give back to the Native community as a doctor in tribal health care, a goal inspired by his views on leadership. “Leadership is a way of life,” Benson said. “It is a way of living so that everything you do sets an example to follow, that is, one of humility … integrity, determination, and, most of all, love.” He applied for the PLP to “dig up” his roots, meet other Tribal members and learn about Nishnabé culture. Benson loves music and can play the guitar and piano. He also enjoys reading and sports.

Check out their final projects and portfolios at cpn.news/2021portfolio. Find out more about the program at plp.potawatomi.org and visit the CPN Department of Education at cpn.news/education.

I am filled with gratitude and Migwetch (thanks) to all who excitement with the news voted and participated in this that I have been elected as election. I appreciate the tone of the new Citizen Potawatomi my opponents throughout the Nation District 1 Legislator. I am race and will work to incorporate humbled. I am ready to serve. their ideas and agendas into my service. I have the privilege I hope to follow in our late of serving the folks who did not Legislator Roy Slavin’s footsteps. vote for me, and want to honor Roy was loved and respected that participation in the process by our District, and served with as best I can. If you did not vote distinction. I aspire to serve for me, help me understand your with distinction and will work needs and concerns, I want to to earn that same place in your connect and serve you! To all hearts. The primary theme of my of you who voted for me, my campaign was connection, and supporters and cheerleaders and I will continue this throughout family, igwien (heartfelt thanks). my term of service: connection I am indebted to you, for your to each other, connection faith in me and investment in me. to services and resources, To my Campaign Support Team, connection to our sister tribes you have my deepest gratitude: and beyond, connection to I certainly would not have had a language and culture. It is successful campaign without your through connection that our help, guidance and correction. sovereignty is assured, that our strength as a Nation is increased. I began my campaign with requests for your prayers. An old Chairman Barrett reached out shepherd from the Middle East to me with congratulations and said “Except the Lord builds the welcomed me to the Legislature. house, they labor in vain that build I was glad to visit with him and it.” “Labor in vain” is a fancy way look forward to a productive of saying that you’re wasting your relationship with him and the time and effort, and I have no rest of our administration and interest in doing that. I ask above Legislature. Chairman Barrett all else that you continue to bring shared many exciting projects my name to our Creator. Pray for with me; he reported that a large me, and with your help and God’s number of our citizens have help I’ll do right by our people. applied for the ARPA funds and checks are being mailed out. I Iw am glad that these funds are (that’s it) being distributed efficiently, and look forward to being part of the Alan Melot process of responsibly investing Representative, District 1 the remaining funds for the 417-312-3307 ongoing benefit of our people. [email protected] 12 SEPTEMBER 2021 HOWNIKAN Exiled refugees connect on the prairie

After removal west of the Mississippi, Indian agents required the church the Potawatomi utilized the limited members to leave the reservation. At available resources to survive. The Tribe’s the same time, non-Natives continued expedition to present-day Missouri and to encroach into Iowa, desiring the Iowa put them in first-hand contact Potawatomi reservation for settlement. with other groups also experiencing displacement, including Mormons, and “At each location, whites wanted land the Tribe fell back on their trade and that had been reserved for these Indians. commerce knowledge in order to thrive. … Many Indians refused to move, and the government responded by cutting Platte Purchase off their annuities to force them to evacuate these areas,” Coates wrote. Discourse between the Potawatomi and the Platte Country began through Potawatomi missionary the 1833 Treaty of Chicago. The Mormons continued traveling The Platte Country — also known as west until they came to the Salt Lake the Platte Purchase — was a swath of Valley, facing many obstacles along the land along the Missouri River in present- way. One Potawatomi in particular, day northwest Missouri. The federal Anthony F. Navarre, followed LDS leader government acquired the area from Brigham Young to present-day Utah Native American tribes to remove eastern Map depicts Potawatomi displacement west of the Mississippi over time. where he lived among church members. tribes to, including the Potawatomi. The original 1833 Treaty of Chicago area, tensions between the Mormons western migration: the Mormon trek to While Navarre studied Mormonism, the included provisions for the Potawatomi and non-Mormons mounted. Utah, and the gold strikes in California Potawatomi in Council Bluffs and the removal to a portion of the Platte and Colorado,” R. David Edmunds Potawatomi in Kansas signed a treaty in Country; however, Missouri wished to 1838 Mormon War wrote in an article titled, Indians as 1846. This established a single reservation annex the area, and many across the Pioneers: Potawatomis on the Frontier. in Kansas for all the Potawatomi west of In 1836, Missouri leaders devised a plan state disagreed with the Potawatomi the Mississippi to occupy. However, it to establish Caldwell County for the LDS occupation. Two Missouri senators In the mid-1840s, Potawatomi used created another set of problems, as the church followers. However, the religion worked to amend the treaty’s language, their annuities to barter and trade two groups of Potawatomi had never quickly spread. The Governor of Missouri but many Tribal members disapproved with LDS church members. lived among each other and had varying Lilburn Boggs issued Missouri Executive of the updates, citing their desire to stances on government affairs and more. Order 44 on Oct. 27, 1838, which continue with the original negotiations “They willingly permitted the Mormons to required all Mormons to leave the state. agreed upon. The Tribe’s words fell on graze their livestock (for a price) on tribal Navarre returned to his kinsmen in pastures and sold wood from Potawatomi Kansas as a Mormon missionary in 1857 deaf ears, and the debate pushed back “The Mormons must be treated as woodlots for the Mormon campfires. and quickly gained respect. He became the treaty’s ratification until 1835. enemies, and must be exterminated or Tribal leaders such as Billy Caldwell and very vocal against the impending treaty, driven from the state if necessary for the Despite congressional approval, most Joseph Lafromboise constructed gristmills and in 1860, hired a lawyer named public peace — their outrages are beyond Potawatomi ignored the new language and and sawmills to provide meal and lumber Lewis Thomas to help avoid allotments all description,” Gov. Boggs wrote. moved to the Platte Purchase in 1835 and for Mormon travelers,” Edmunds wrote. and bring the Tribe together. While 1836. The Potawatomi inhabiting these he did not obtain the desired results, Three days later, a militia of more than Spirituality lands enraged non-Native Missourians. 200 massacred 18 Mormon men and boys Navarre’s actions set a precedent. at Haun’s Mill. The state never prosecuted According to The Potawatomis: Keepers of While the Mormons provided economic the mob’s actions. Shortly after, 15,000 Eventually, the Potawatomi signed the the Fire by R. David Edmunds, “Many opportunity, their Godly connection church members left Missouri, suffering Treaty of 1861, officially separating settlers believed that the region soon interested many Tribal leaders as the from starvation and lack of resources along them once more. One faction, the would be annexed to Missouri, and they Potawatomi looked for answers for the way. Gov. Boggs’ “Extermination Or- Citizen Potawatomi, accepted land crossed over into the area, clearing land the federal government and settlers’ der” was not repealed until June 25, 1976. allotments based on tribal standing and erecting cabins. During February, negative treatment. Hearing the church’s and the chance to become U.S. citizens, 1836, troops from Fort Leavenworth Iowa belief regarding Joseph Smith’s divine and the other, the Prairie Band, opted forced the settlers back into Missouri, connection, Chief Apaquachawba to remain living communally. but the military actions angered state Around the same time, in an attempt pleaded with Smith to speak to the Great officials, and Senators Benton and Linn to get the Potawatomi out of Missouri, Spirit on their behalf. Smith instructed Although the Tribe was no longer a and Congressman Albert G. Harrison General Edmund P. Gaines offered the the Potawatomi to abandon any violence single group, Navarre continued efforts redoubled their efforts to have the Tribe transportation via steamboats and with others and to read the Book of to represent the best interests of all the Platte Country annexed to their state.” food to travel to Council Bluffs, Iowa. Mormon for instructions on how to solve Potawatomi west of the Mississippi, all their current and future problems. which some attest his religion impacted The region’s importance to members of Once the Potawatomi arrived in Iowa, his leadership style and tenacity. the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day they did not believe Council Bluffs held By 1846, the Mormon and Potawatomi Saints also proved problematic. Mormon much permanency. Members leaned relationship worried governmental The church’s headquarters remains founder, Prophet Joseph Smith, believed on their trading experience rather officials. They feared an uprising today in Salt Lake City, Utah, and the that the area that is now northwest than farming or raising livestock to against the United States. Mormon and Potawatomi relationship Missouri is the Garden of Eden and make a living, establishing commerce lives on with Potawatomi Plums planted the location of Jesus’ return in the opportunities that helped drive According to Lawrence Coates’ article by LDS church settlers growing wild second coming. This inspired church economic development in the region. Refugees Meet: The Mormons and Indians across the state more than 150 years later. followers to establish communities. in Iowa, “Assessing the loyalty of the “They were quick to adapt it to a wide Potawatomi, Governor Chambers added Learn more about this era in The federal government granted the range of opportunities that awaited them that they should be watched closely since Potawatomi history by visiting the Tribe an opportunity to live in the on the eastern fringe of the plains. They they had sided with the British in the War Citizen Potawatomi Nation’s Cultural Platte Purchase temporarily, but as immediately benefitted from at least of 1812 and were among the most savage Heritage center in person or online Potawatomi started to move into the two other facets of the broad sweep of and irreconcilable of any hostile tribe.” at potawatomiheritage.com. HOWNIKAN SEPTEMBER 2021 13 Students benefit from summer programs

The Citizen Potawatomi Nation’s Workforce Development & Social Services department recently wrapped up a busy summer full of activities to help youth learn and participate in their Native heritage and build professional skills. Outreach programs included a V-STEM camp, book club, law and policy, work placements and more.

V-STEM

Although the ongoing coronavirus pandemic hindered the department’s ability to implement in-person activities for every initiative, staff found creative ways to keep youth engaged. A partnership with the American Indian Science and Engineering Society provided the foundation for CPN to offer an immersive, virtual STEM camp again this year. Students across eight weeks dove into science, technology, engineering and math-related subjects tied to Indigenous teachings and backgrounds. “We covered star knowledge, water science, animal biology, geometry, and more, and we brought in other departments from across CPN to present,” said Ariana Hurst, youth coordinator.

The camp reached approximately 80 Participants connect to Native American culture and learn about healthy habits, students through its virtual sessions career and educational opportunities through virtual and hands-on activities. and in-person activities organized by the CPN Child Development Center. “We have gotten a great reaction from them,” she said. “They seem to have really enjoyed it.”

Book club

Social Services Counselor Kym Coe and Assistant Counselor Nicole Byrd, led a month-long book club for local Johnson O’Malley participants “The Fresh Fitness Camp was for and families. During the four weeks, kids ages 7 to 12 and occurred every they read CPN member Robin Wall Tuesday and Thursday in July,” said Kimmerer’s Gathering Moss and Braiding Kristen Casteel, JOM intern. “On Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Tuesdays, they exercised with Knowledge, and the Teaching of Plants trainers from the Wellness Center as well as Edward Benton-Banai’s The and took part in arts and crafts.” Mishomis Book: The Voice of the Ojibway. Twelve students attended a Cultural “It is an honor to be able to help families Heritage Center tour led by Blake who have such a rich history to connect CPN’s Workforce Development & Social Services combines virtual and Norton, CHC curator, and afterward, to their past in such a beautiful way. in-person sessions during its summer youth outreach programs. enjoyed watching The Playground of But more than that, I love knowing the Native Son and food from FireLake that the families are spending time “They had really great law-related to 24 with finding short-term jobs to Fry Bread Taco. Another group of together, reading and learning about discussions, and in the last week, help them define potential career goals. students learned about the aviary’s their culture together,” Byrd said. they got to meet in-person to do work to provide a permanent home their own mock trial,” Hurst said. “The program is a way to get their for injured eagles that cannot return Byrd drafted questions for students foot in the door,” said Achaia to the wild through an on-site tour. to answer, and they received Workforce supplied legal portfolios and Powis, youth counselor. incentives for completing the tasks. helped the students purchase professional, Staff enjoyed the opportunity the court-room appropriate clothing. Students can work up to 120 hours at department’s summer outreach provided “Our main goals with the book club are locations within and outside of CPN. to keep youth engaged, especially while to encourage reading, teach the kids During the mock trial sessions, “I the coronavirus pandemic created fewer about their culture, and to also encourage personally thought the younger “We try to place them with something that they’re really interested in going opportunities for students to attend families to read together,” she said. kids would be more reserved and regular, in-person camps and sessions. to school for after they graduate, not as outspoken, but we had one It also allowed participants to become Although the club ended on Aug. 2, so we have partnerships with vet girl who wanted to be the defense more acquainted with local resources. students were able to keep the books. attorney, and she took her role very clinics, physical therapy offices and things like that,” she said. “For me personally, I am so happy that seriously in court,” Hurst said. “We hope we helped give them a greater sense of their identity and I could run this book club. I have At the end of the programming, students Staff strive to identify potential always loved reading … and as an their community. They might not traveled to East Central University hurdles to participants’ success to realize that there are other people out avid reader, I have always loved that in Ada for a campus tour where they make the placement as beneficial I can connect to history through an there who really do want to see them met with professors and learned more and educational as possible. succeed, and we have great resources author’s experiences. And now, I can about the university’s degree options. share that with our youth,” Byrd said. “Let’s say they work somewhere where they here and we would love for them to “Everybody really seemed to enjoy need scrubs or professional office attire take advantage of that,” Powis said. Law themselves, and it was cool just getting — we help them with that,” Powis said. Learn more about CPN Workforce to see everyone interacting together in Workforce Development & Social Development & Social Services person versus over Zoom,” she said. Health and culture Services partnered with nearby higher- at cpn.news/workforce. educational institutions over three Work placements Youth also had an opportunity to weeks, introducing students in grades participate in a Fresh Fitness Camp 7 through 12 to potential legal careers In addition to camps over the summer and tour the Cultural Heritage through its Law & Policy Camp. break, staff assisted area youth ages 16 Center and CPN Eagle Aviary. 14 SEPTEMBER 2021 HOWNIKAN Tribal Chairman – John “Rocky” Barrett Potawatomi Nation’s employees of the housing mortgage This will virtually eliminate I mean residential developments and directors are quite capable industry, but it has resulted the increased risk. for our tribal members and of maintaining our services and in the denial of access to the employees as well as economic business ventures in the face of mortgage markets for Indian If a homebuyer defaults on a development opportunities for these trying circumstances. On tribes and tribally-owned banks. loan, the tribe will take back the entrepreneurs and tribal nations behalf of our Tribal members, Even though we own house, repair it and resell it to alike. Right now, it seems the I want to thank all of our the largest tribally-owned another customer. Since the real majority of these opportunities employees for going above and national bank in the United property on which the house is tend to be focused in the beyond to serve our Nation. States, we cannot find a built belongs to the tribe under largest metropolitan areas. secondary market for mortgages the HEARTH Act, there will As we move into the fall, for good credit customers always be some degree of equity I’ve spoken about this personally all eyes will turn again to authorized under the HEARTH for the tribe to use to offset an with Oklahoma Representative Washington D.C. as our elected Act. This means we face unpaid mortgage. If this formula Stephanie Bice, her predecessor representatives return to the challenges to finance homes is followed, banks making Kendra Horn and Senator James nation’s capital. At CPN, we built on Indian trust land. HEARTH Act home loans Lankford. Hopefully we can Bozho nikan keep an ongoing dialogue with secured by long-term leaseholds move forward with their assis- (Hello, my friend), our elected senators and house The simple fix to the issue will be able to sell those loans tance and support in creating a representatives, especially about is a federal guarantee for on the regular secondary market better regulatory environment for he COVID Delta variant issues that seek to improve the the mortgage structured the in the same manner as banks us to develop our land, just like Thas presented another quality of life for our citizens. same as an FHA or Veteran’s now sell FHA and VA loans. non-Native entities do every day. health challenge for our country, One particular issue I have Administration home loan. I and here at home, the Tribe realize that some conservative Tribes are often hampered by As always, it is an honor to brought to their attention is the serve as your Tribal Chairman. had to reinstitute masking and need for federal action in support members of Congress will regulatory regimes implemented other precautionary measures of the Native American leasehold oppose this as a potentially by Washington D.C.’s most Migwetch at all of our properties at the mortgage market that was higher risk for the federal cumbersome bureaucracies. The (Thank you), end of the summer. This last initially opened by the HEARTH government. The answer to end goal of these fixes would year taught us what we need Act over two years ago. that perceived risk is simple: allow tribes to utilize trust John “Rocky” Barrett to do to get through the threat allow a secondary guarantee lands and develop rural parts Keweoge of a growing pandemic. While The issue is one that is on the loan from the tribe of this country long starved of (He Leads Them Home) there are challenges, the Citizen fundamental for some segments that governs the trust land. adequate investment — by that Tribal Chairman Vice-Chairman – Linda Capps Telemedicine became popular in Please don’t begin calling rural areas during the 1960s and about this program because it 70s where populations with lim- must have legislative approval ited healthcare access could reach and then be implemented. specialists from afar. During this same time frame, agencies CPN’s fiscal year begins October invested millions of dollars, plus 1, which is when we will start an abundance of time, for re- signing up for the program, if it search in telemedicine. Among is approved. There will be more the agencies were state and local information about the program health departments, NASA, the forth coming by social media Department of Defense and the and in the October Hownikan. U.S. Department of Health and There are no charges to our Human Services. One of the Tribal members for this program. most successful of these govern- The cost to our Tribe will be ment projects was the partnership have an opportunity to approve option to speak to the doctor dependent on how many sign up Bozho between Indian Health Services a program for telemedicine for on the phone. The doctors for the telemedicine package. (Hello), and NASA. The project was Tribal members throughout are not from CPN Health I appreciate the opportunity called Space Technology Ap- the U.S. You must be at least Services. Prescriptions can be are, around the clock” to serve our Tribal members. plied to Rural Papago Advanced 18 years of age or older to sign sent to your nearest pharmacy It is especially exciting when “Cin reference to medical Health Care. STARPAHC up for the program, and you if needed. There is no co-pay assistance is an appealing we have new and innovative helped the Native Americans will sign up similar to how you for the visit with the doctor, but services to provide. concept. What if a household on the Papago Reservation in signed up for the ARPA funds. Tribal members are responsible had 24/7/365 access to Arizona and astronauts in orbit to pay for their prescriptions, Migwetch board-certified doctors and with access to medical care. Only one CPN adult Tribal which can be called in to the (Thank you), pediatricians? The method of member in a household is nearest preferred pharmacy. contact could be via phone, What does telemedicine have to required to join the program. Linda Capps online or a smartphone app. do with the Citizen Potawatomi That person can add their spouse You may be wondering just how Segenakwe Telemedicine is the practice people? CPN employees have and children under their name. many conditions can be treated (Black Bird Woman) of medicine using technology had access to virtual doctors for Once a Tribal member is signed by telemedicine. There are Vice-Chairman to deliver care at a distance. a few years. It has proven very into the program, he/she will more than one would imagine, 405-275-3121 work A physician in one location effective for some, especially have access to a virtual doctor including acne, allergies, 405-650-1238 cell uses a telecommunications those with children but other 24/7 from the member’s home, asthma, bronchitis, cellulitis, [email protected] method to deliver care to a age groups as well. Later this office or on the go. The choices cold and flu, infections, insect patient at a distant site. month, the CPN Legislature will are a virtual doctor or the bites and many more.

The Hownikan is published by the Citizen Potawatomi Nation and is Hownikan mailed free to enrolled Tribal members. Subscriptions for nonmembers 1601 S. Gordon Cooper Drive, Shawnee, Oklahoma are $10 a year in the United States and $12 in foreign countries. The Hownikan is a member of the Native American Journalists Association. CPN Executive Committee Reprint permission is granted with publication credit to the Hownikan. Tribal Chairman: John “Rocky” Barrett Vice-Chairman: Linda Capps Editorials/letters are subject to editing and must contain a traceable address. Secretary/Treasurer: D. Wayne Trousdale All correspondence should be directed to Hownikan, Editorial staff 1601 S. Gordon Cooper Drive, Shawnee, OK 74801 Editor: Jennifer Bell Page/graphic designer: Trey DeLonais Questions: [email protected] or 800-880-9880 Editor: John VanPool Graphic designer: Emily Guleserian Writer: Mary Belle Zook Address changes should be sent to Tribal Rolls, Writer: Paige Willett Photographer: Garett Fisbeck Writer: Lenzy Krehbiel-Burton Submissions coordinator: Mindee Duffell 1601 S. Gordon Cooper Drive, Shawnee, OK 74801 HOWNIKAN SEPTEMBER 2021 15 District 2 – Eva Marie Carney be careful, as I hope you will be, a printer, I can print and mail given the COVID-19 variants! a copy to you on your request.

Upcoming meeting Why We Serve exhibit

I am planning our District 2 If you are or plan to be in Fall Feast for Saturday, Nov. 20. the New York City area, you That’s the Saturday before the might want to check out the Thanksgiving holiday. I don’t Why We Serve exhibit at the have confirmation of the venue Smithsonian National Museum yet, but it will be in or around of the American Indian — New Arlington, Virginia. We will have York. It also is viewable online finger-weaving instruction by at cpn.news/why. The exhibit Bob and Karen Richey, who have Mkesinen in the NMAI collection explores, through more than moved back to Virginia from 40 images, the past 250 years Tennessee, and our traditional social media. You’ll be helping please also take advantage of the of Native American military Bozho nikanek potluck and giveaways — unless to create an online photo album resources available there: a virtual service. I’d love to get your (Hello friends)! COVID-19 gets the better of for the world to see and enjoy. tour of our Cultural Heritage feedback, if you are able to us. Once finalized, I will get all During Virtual Family Festival Center and early access to view the exhibit, so I can share Happy September! details out via email, my website 2021, CPN citizen and artist Mezodanek (Family), our digital it with fellow Potawatomi. (check out cpn.news/D2calendar) Lakota Pochedley provided While there will be ups and research program focused on and our District 2 Facebook instruction online on making Communication downs, no doubt, I know so the family history of the Citizen page, but please do check back traditional Potawatomi pucker Potawatomi Nation. Mezodanek many of you are welcoming a re- Please keep in touch — by as the date gets closer. It’s always toe mkesinen. You can access the allows citizens and their spouses turn to the classroom for yourself phone, or online via email or a joy to have so many children video here: cpn.news/mkesinen. to engage in genealogical research, or your youngsters. I’m excited a Facebook message. We have and elders join our Fall Feast, District 2’s Lyle Simmons put build family trees and connect to get back to regular shipments about 240 District 2 folks but we will be governed by what together a photo-illustrated with Potawatomi relatives from participating on a private of period supplies to the Native the Virginia governor directs instructional guide, available around the globe. One can also Facebook group. Message me on students we assist through school at that time and may need to here: cpn.news/mocguide. For communicate directly with Facebook if you’d like to join us. partnerships with The Kwek So- skip the Feast again this year. inspiration, I’ve included some Cultural Heritage Center staff to I look forward to hearing from ciety — I’m hoping it will be a photos of Potawatomi mkesinen assist with family research and/ Rock Your Mocs 2021 you and helping you, as needed. very busy fall as students return in the National Museum of the or donate to the family history to their classrooms. In my other American Indian Archive Center. Rock Your Mocs 2021 will collection. Dr. Kelli Mosteller Migwetch (thank you) for the work, I’ve been doing most of my take place Nov. 14 through Virtual tour of the Cultural hosted an overview of Mezodanek, honor of representing you. immigration client consultations Nov. 20, 2021. You can and its many capabilities, over through Zoom or WhatsApp. I Heritage Center and early choose a day or days or the access to Mezodanek Zoom on July 29. I found it Eva Marie Carney thought I would be spending whole week to wear your helpful, and you might as well. Ojindiskwe (Blue Bird Woman) more of my time on in-person mkesinen (moccasins) — the Elsewhere in this paper is It’s posted on YouTube here: cpn. Representative, District 2 consultations, but my office is idea is to honor our ancestors information on the application news/mez29. Please know that if 5877 Washington Boulevard pulling back from that and I’ll and Indigenous peoples process for American Rescue Plan you have any issues or concerns PO Box 5591 continue to do that work remote- worldwide. To participate, wear Act funds. Most of us will access with using the portal to apply for Arlington, VA 22205 ly. I had been looking forward your mkesinen, take a photo the application through the CPN the funds, you can apply by mail. 866-961-6988 toll-free to more client interactions, but I or video, add the hashtag website portal at cpn.news/portal. The application can be printed [email protected] agree that we need to continue to #RockYourMocs and upload to While you are in the portal, from potawatomi.org; if you lack evamariecarney.com District 3 – Bob Whistler before the August Hownikan probably arrived. I created a memo to those who for whom I had an email address, giving them the details on the opening date of Aug. 2 along with the special phone number. In addi- tion, another legislator sent me a PDF of the ARPA application, which I sent out via email to ev- eryone on my email address list enabling the Tribal members I reached to submit an application the first day the process opened. In the four terms as the District Bozho nikan 3 representative, I still have (Hello friend), probably less than 10 percent Email addresses of the email addresses for the members in my district. Over y the time you open your the course of my four terms, I BSeptember Hownikan, there along with many of the other will be another new legislator legislators, have asked over and with our Nation. In the June over to give us a contact to reach you with information like your election, Andy Walters became Olympic pentathlon athlete Jim Thorpe and his famous mismatched shoes. List of Potawatomi Nations and the District 11 representative. ARPA $1,400. A very quick way to do that for me is to go to their distance from Wausauksing District 1 had a run-off, and that it a point to go to the Cultural give a call to 800-880-9880 First Nations grounds in Parry my website cpndistrict3.com or result was not known at the time Heritage Center and look and ask for Potawatomi Gifts. Sound, Ontario, Canada. bobwhistler.com and click on the of this article. We have two new through the gift shop. I was link I have given you to reach me. members out there to represent pleased to see that they now have Jim Thorpe died of pneumonia. What is All you need to say is, “Here it is!” interesting there is that brother, you and get you information. a very nice loom for beading. It and add in your email address. In a follow up to the very Charlie, was one of the many would be great for making items There are opportunities that nice article written in the July Native American children taken each of the legislators encounter So, for future announcements where a weaving type of design Hownikan by Paul Wesselhöft, I from their homes and placed in where they have information that that could assist you even is made. This item sells for $20 thought I might add a couple the boarding schools. Charlie financially, why not provide could be valuable to you before and can be purchased in person of items that I have information was one of the many who your district representative the next Hownikan is received or online at cpn.news/loomkit. about. Attached is a photo died at Carlisle. Over the last your email address? and possibly even yet to be pub- I am including a photo of the of the shoes that Jim Thorpe few months, more and more lished. For example, I learned of Beading box the loom that it comes in. took from the trash to win the information is coming out on the ARPA $1,400 opening date This is a super tool, especially for decathlon because his original how many Native American for the portal and the special In my last trip to Shawnee for those who are new to the craft. If pair had been stolen. Paul did children died in the schools in 800 number roughly two weeks our meetings in June, I made you’re interested in learning more, mention that Jim’s twin brother both the U.S. and in Canada. 16 SEPTEMBER 2021 HOWNIKAN So far in the U.S. and Canada, the remains of 1505 Native American and First Nation children have been found collectively in seven schools, and there are still over 497 schools remaining in the two countries to be searched. What a travesty!

Sandy Hook

Just to set the record straight, This beading loom kit is for sale at potawatomigifts.com Vernon Thunder posted a photo additional First Nation tribes In WWI, the U.S. army used Nishnabk of those praying in to our group. I am attaching a code talkers that were from the for the 290 unarmed Indians photo of the post showing how Cherokee Nation and Choctaw — including over 200 women far each of the other ten nations telephone squad. They classified and children — that the U.S. are from the Wausauksing this information as top-secret, Potawatomi Gathering 2019 at Wausauksing troops murdered at a school in and as a result, reinstituted the First Nation in Parry Sound, Canada. 1890. While I am sorry for the grounds. The names of the program in WWII. In WWII, event that took place at Sandy two additional nations are: Chimnissing and Nawash. I the federal government made the meeting about need for vari- As I started out this article, I am Hook school, it was not the ance, expanded the terms to 411. here to represent you and pass have also included a photo it a point to recruit Native deadliest school shooting. I One of their unique words was on information that may be of made note of this since we just of a group of us in regalia on American code talkers from over 19 Native American nations. “iron fish” representing submarine. benefit to you. I look forward recently had Juneteenth declared a small hill overlooking the to hearing from you and again arena used for Grand Entry. a national federal holiday In 1942, the U.S. Marines re- In the YouTube presentation, ask for your email address. the speaker recommends reading commemorating the end of cruited 29 Navajos as their orig- Code Talkers the book Navajo Weapon, which Bama mine slavery in the U.S. Hopefully inal group of code talkers who gives much detail on the war (Later), there will come a time that the In October of 2020, I made a were used in the Pacific theater. federal government finds that presentation on YouTube on in the Pacific and includes the While in school developing the code talker dictionary. That set Bob Whistler they have a responsibility to our history and subsequently language, an officer who was very of coding was not declassified Bmashi (He Soars) recognize us officially as the offered YouTube presentation well educated in breaking codes until 1968. Peter McDonald, Representative, District 3 Natives of Turtle Island and links for both the Alabama advised that most codes were honor us with a federal holiday. Sr., the YouTube speaker, is only 112 Bedford Road, Suite 116 Choushatta Tribe and Choctaw broken because of repetition. So, one of five remaining Navajo Bedford, TX 76022 Wausauksing Nation. In both WWI And the Navajos created a dictionary code talkers from WWII. 817-229-6271 cell WWII, Native American code of three words for each letter of [email protected] The Potawatomi Gathering in talkers were used. You can go the alphabet along with special I found the presentation [email protected] 2019 was held in Parry Sound, to YouTube for a lesson about words for things like the comma that lasts about one and cpndistrict3.com Canada. At the legislative the Navajo Marines in WWII, and semi-colon. Initially, they half hours very interesting meeting there, we added two which is cpn.news/code. started with 211 terms, and after and well worth my time.

District 4 – Jon Boursaw participate. I’m pleased to report in Kansas City, Missouri, where Saturday, Oct. 23 at 10 Center in Rossville. Tracy that this year four District 4 she will pursue a bachelor’s a.m. Lunch at noon. and Brenda are planning on students were selected. I’m degree in the School of Imaging preparing buffalo meat loaf not aware of any previous year Sciences, preparing her to be James Ralston, Ph.D., has for the main course. They when we had more than one a radiologic technologist. accepted an invitation to speak have asked that you RSVP by student participate. Here are on his research on the Ogee Tuesday, Oct. 5 if you plan on our four 2021 PLP students: Mark your calendars — House, the historical stone attending. Their number is District meetings house just east of Silver Lake 785-584-6171. You are asked Hannah Nystrom, a Topeka on US-24 where Lewis and to bring a side dish or dessert. resident, is the daughter of I add this section with the Sophia (Beaubein) Ogee raised Jon and Chris Nystrom and caveat that with the surge in their family. Please RSVP by 5 Honored to serve you is Juneau family descendant. COVID cases, we are waiting p.m. on Oct. 19 by calling me at She is attending the University to finalize the below meetings. 785-608-1982 or emailing me at It is an honor to serve you of Kansas as a junior, double However, I wanted to provide [email protected]. as your district legislator. I majoring in journalism and you the dates and times to You can also call Lyman appreciate hearing from CPN environmental studies. keep open on your calendar. I Boursaw at 785-584- members in Kansas, whether Bozho will send out a confirmation 6401. Please indicate which in the form of a letter, email, (Hello), Grace Laughton lives in U.S. mail or via mail or email meeting you plan to attend. phone call or in the office. Mission, and will be a (if you have shared it with Please let me know how I can Four District 4 sophomore at Johnson County me) once we confirm it is safe Hays: The Venue in Thristy’s be of assistance to you. If you students attend the Community College, where to meet. Until then contact Bar and Grill located at are not receiving emails from 2021 Potawatomi she is majoring in theatre/ me with any questions. 2704 Vine St. in Hays on me, it is because I do not have Leadership Program film. Grace is the daughter of Sunday, Oct. 31 at 12:30 your current email address, or Karen Schneider and Howard Wichita: All-Indian Center p.m. Buffet lunch at 1 p.m. what I have is incorrect. All he Potawatomi Leadership Laughton and is a descendent located at 650 N. Seneca you need to do is send me TProgram educates, informs of the Bruno Family. St. on Sunday, Oct. 3. First time we’ve met in Hays. your email address, and I will and encourages qualified After lunch, I plan to hold a enter you into my District 4 Potawatomi students, within Mary Hrenchir, daughter of We will begin at 1:00 p.m. discussion on the CPN services information file. My contact the Tribal membership at large, Nancy and Robert Hrenchir, with lunch. Donald Blakeslee, and benefits available to those information is listed below. to develop a more accurate calls Paola home. She is also Ph.D., has agreed to give a of us in District 4, followed by perception of the Tribe and a proud descendent of the presentation on his discovery my CPN history presentation. Migwetch its operations. To be eligible, Juneau family. Mary is a junior of Etzanoa, the long-lost city Please RSVP by 5 p.m. on (Thank you), students must be aged 18-21, at the University of Kansas as near Arkansas City, believed Monday, Oct. 25 by calling me demonstrate at least a 3.0 grade a business analytics major. to be the second-biggest Jon Boursaw, at 785-608-1982 or email me at Wetase Mkoh (Brave Bear) point average, have graduated settlement of Native Americans [email protected]. Alexis Ladner, a Bourbonnais Representative, District 4 high school by the program’s start found in the United States. Please indicate which meeting family descendent, is from 2007 SW Gage Blvd. date, and be enrolled in college Please RSVP by 5 p.m. on you plan to attend. Also, Shawnee, Kansas. Her parents Topeka, KS 66604 or vocational school at any level. Sept. 28 by calling me at let me know your lunch are Jeff and Angela Ladner. 785-861-7272 office 785-608-1982 or email me at preference of beef or chicken. Normally, the program hosts Although Alexis has received her [email protected]. 785-608-1982 cell 10-12 students in Shawnee, associates degree from Johnson Please indicate which October Elders Potluck [email protected] Oklahoma, for six weeks each County Community College, meeting you plan to attend. Office hours: summer. However, this year she will return this fall for one The October Elders Potluck will 9-11 a.m. Tuesdays the program was held virtually, class, chemistry. Next spring, Rossville: CPN Community be held on Friday, Oct. 8, at 3-5 p.m. Thursdays which did allow 23 students to she will attend Avila University Center in Rossville on noon in the CPN Community Other times: please call

Legislators are not able to retrieve your contact information from Tribal Rolls Please contact your legislator and update your contact details so that you can receive important information. HOWNIKAN SEPTEMBER 2021 17 District 5 – Gene Lambert of the virus, it seems we may see not functioning well for the and guardians. In fact, this is Don’t forget, the ARPA fund the end of all of this in time. children and family members. why we as Citizen Potawatomi application is now available There are certainly legitimate place such a high premium online at potawatom.org or Recently, a story I saw on reasons for the government on our elders. They have been by calling 833-481-0638 and CNN got me thinking about — be it state, tribal or federal there, done that, and have had requesting a paper application. something that we know as — to help when warranted. to live with the consequences As we can see right now with tribal people. The founding of their decisions. The Seven the recent resurgence of the bedrock of all societies is the But, I worry that blurring Grandfathers teaching is not just delta variant, COVID is not family. While that can take the line of allowing children, a fable; it is a handy guide that over. Some of our members all forms, the family is a vital especially those just a few years shows our eldest can think long may still need help to deal piece of how our younger from “adulthood,” (18 years with the consequences of this generations can learn and grow in American society) to make term about how their decisions will impact the next generations. pandemic, and these funds under the supervision of parents decisions outside the control are there to help you. As a or guardians. However, we of their parents is a worrisome I know this might be a sensitive legislature, we voted to allocate as Citizen Potawatomi know trend. No parent is perfect, subject. Many people have them for Citizen Potawatomi, all too well that government but there also isn’t a perfect had rough upbringings, and so please utilize this tool. interference into the family way to parent. There are as Bozho I do not mean to minimize can be problematic. many ways to raise kids as Love and prayers, (Hello), those experiences. This is not there are parents in the world. am writing from a rainy Make no mistake, there are a catch-all. But I do think Eunice Imogene Lambert Arizona. (Yes, really!) vital times when a family is Parents, for all their faults, are there is wisdom in trusting Butterfly Woman I so dysfunctional that outside better equipped to understand our elders and parents and Representative, District 5 It has been a long time since assistance is needed. Agencies long-term consequences of not relying on governments to 270 E Hunt Highway, Ste 229 we have been able to gather in like our own Indian Child decisions that teenagers and dictate what the best decision San Tan Valley, AZ 85143 person, and while challenges Welfare Department are there kids do not. This goes for for a young person still in 480-228-6569 remain with a resurgent variant to support families who are grandparents, aunts, uncles the family home will be. [email protected]

District 6 – Rande K. Payne Legislator Andrew Walters. of CPN’s enterprises felt the tions, housing, health care and everyone next month! For the Andy was elected to his first impact, but hopefully we’ve put commercial development are a full invitation and registration term without opposition. I the worst behind us as recovery few things that come to mind details, see the invite on page 9. look forward to working with continues. Federal stimulus for me. I believe that we have a all of them and the winner of kept the economy from a total once-in-a-lifetime opportunity I look forward to the future the District 1 runoff election. melt down and provided much to strengthen our sustainability with enthusiasm, as I believe needed assistance to help the for generations to come. Please our best days and years are As you may or may not know, country weather the storm. pray that wisdom prevails and ahead of us! It is my great I supported Chairman Barrett that our grandchildren and their honor, and I’m grateful to serve for Tribal Chairman. However, Even as we’re seeing the delta grandchildren will remember us as your legislator. If I can be I purposely kept my support variant of the coronavirus push fondly for the decisions we make. of any assistance, please don’t low-key. I split the cost with metrics in the wrong direc- hesitate to call, email or write. District 7 Representative tion, people are going back to District 7 Representative Mark Mark Johnson for an ad in the work, students are going back Johnson and I are excited to Words of Wisdom: “A people Hownikan endorsing Chairman to school, and the economy is announce the 2021 Heritage without the knowledge of Barrett. It cost each of us $75. I picking up steam. CARES was Festival. As always, it will be their past history, origin and Bozho nikanek didn’t feel the need to campaign designed to help individuals held outdoors in Visalia. The culture is like a tree without (Hello friends), for Chairman Barrett, but I do and businesses literally survive date is Saturday, Oct. 23, from roots.” — Marcus Garvey the pandemic. Now, the task of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Lunch will be believe that members in my Wisdom from the Word: “When nother election cycle rebuilding begins. In March of provided. District 6 and 7 Tribal district deserve to know who I a land does wrong, it has many has transpired, and I this year, Congress passed into members and their families are A thought was the best person for princes. But when the ruler would like to congratulate law the American Rescue Plan welcome. Up-to-date CARES the job. Contrary to what some is a man of understanding Chairman Barrett and District 4 Act to help ensure that states, and ARPA information will be were saying, an elected official and knowledge, its stability Representative Jon Boursaw on cities and tribal governments provided. Tribal ID assistance of the Tribe endorsing any endures.” Proverbs 28:2 (AMP) their re-election wins. District 1 particular candidate for Tribal have the resources they need to will be available; however, all has yet to be determined, with a office is not a violation of our continue providing services to IDs will be mailed from Tribal Migwetch! Bama pi runoff election results between constitution or Tribal elections their citizenry. As details emerge, Rolls. For those who missed our (Thank you! Until later), Alan Melot and David Slavin code. That said, I believe the I look forward to working with last Zoom meeting, language scheduled to be announced Citizen Potawatomi Nation my fellow legislators in deter- and family research resources Rande K. Payne after the submission deadline. is positioned for growth and mining how to best appropriate available from the Cultural Mnedo Gabo Congratulations to District progress well into the future. the funds we receive. My under- Heritage Center will be presented Representative, District 6 2 incumbent Legislator Eva standing is that CARES funds as well. We will also be covering 31150 Road 180 Marie Carney and District 3 We live in unprecedented were for short-term relief, while available benefits and services Visalia, CA 93292-9585 incumbent Legislator Bob times going through a deadly ARPA funds are for solutions to available to Tribal members. It’s 559-999-3525 office Whistler on their re-elections pandemic that has left no one long-term sustainability. Water, been a long time since we’ve 559-999-5411 cell as well. Both ran unopposed. unaffected. Our economy technology and energy infra- been able to gather. Mark and [email protected] And welcome District 11 was definitely affected. Most structure, environmental protec- I are looking forward to seeing [email protected]

District 7 – Mark Johnson am sure by now, you have seen On Oct. 23, District 6 fire-resistant building materials. is to serve you as your District I that the American Rescue Plan Legislator Rande Payne and I Defensible space is the buffer you 7 representative. As always, Act funds allocated to the Tribe will again be hosting our Fall create by removing dead plants, give me a call, and I will be are providing $1,400 payment to Heritage Festival in person in grass and weeds. This buffer helps happy to work with you on each member, regardless of age. Visalia, California. Please watch to keep the fire away from your any questions you may have The only requirement is that the for additional information, and home. It takes the combination or provide you with additional members were enrolled by Feb. 1, sign up and join us. It will be of both defensible space and the information you may need to 2021. This date was agreed upon great for us to reconnect after hardening of your home to really access available Tribal benefits. because that was when the Tribe the last year and a half. For the give your house the best chance reported our membership num- full invitation and registration of surviving a wildfire. Before Migwetch bers to the federal government details, see the invite on page 9. wildfire strikes, it is important (Thank you), for the ARPA allocation. There that you get set. Prepare is an online application for the As I wrote last year, all of yourself and your home for the Mark Johnson funds and additional information District 7 is now in the wildfire possibility of having to evacuate. Wisk Mtek (Strong as a Tree) at potawatomi.org/arpa/ or call season. If you live in a rural Additional information can be Representative, District 7 833-481-0638. If you choose not setting, being ready for wildfire found at readyforwildfire.org. 1565 Shaw Ave., Suite 202 to apply, the funds will be put starts with maintaining an Clovis, CA 93611 Bozho nikanek into other areas of the Tribe for adequate defensible space and by Once again, I would like to say 559-351-0078 cell (Hello friends), the long-term benefit of everyone. hardening your home by using what an honor and privilege it [email protected] 18 SEPTEMBER 2021 HOWNIKAN District 8 – Dave Carney despite the pandemic. One than one occasion, he would paths, aspirations, feelings and of the best things about the of my kids, Matthew (age be walking into the front to bond with each other in experience was that a business- 20), applied to the program. door, removing his jacket general. Speakers who I happen oriented student was exposed He was very interested in and tie while participating in to overhear (from the next to cultural teachings, and learning more about the discussions or listening to a room) while my son participated students primarily interested Nation – especially the Tribe’s presentation on his iPhone. included Tribal Chairman in culture were educated businesses (since he is a business Barrett, Vice-Chairman about the enterprises that major at the University of Heading up the program is Capps, Director of Economic pay for cultural programs. Washington). He was excited Tesia Zientek, the Nation’s Development Dr. Collard and Migwetch (thank you) to all to hear that he was accepted. Department of Education Kaya DeerinWater from the director. She has an absolutely CPN Community Garden. the people that made this While applying for the PLP, he amazing energy level and a I must say that I learned a wonderful experience possible! also applied for an internship passion for teaching our youth. thing or two eavesdropping. Tesia’s mother, Margaret Zientek, Currently, COVID allowing, with a large, national company I am planning our Fall Feast that offers shipping and has been the PLP house mother Members of the legislature for years. Obviously, this role were invited to participate for Oct. 23 in Portland, other business supplies. After Oregon. Please save the Bohzo nikan multiple interviews, a drug was greatly changed due to in a Zoom meeting to view COVID, but she continued the final presentations of the date – it will be wonderful (Hello friend), test and other hurdles, he was to get together in person. offered that internship as well. to make a huge contribution program participants. What a hroughout the years that – including making custom great group of young people As always, it is my honor to TI’ve been heavily involved “How is this going to regalia for each PLP student to with tremendous hearts for the serve as your legislator. with the Nation, I have learned work?” I thought. own at the end of the program Tribe! This was an eye-opening much about the Potawatomi (shawls for women and vests experience that gave them the Dave Carney Leadership Program from With a bit of flexibility, he for men). Regular features connection to the Nation that Kagasghi (Raven) different vantage points. It has was able start very early each of the program throughout they could have been missing. Representative, District 8 been evolving and improving weekday morning and to finish the six weeks were cultural Several expressed interest in 520 Lilly Road, Building 1 over the years. And then came his daytime internship just in teachings provided by Dr. Kelli coming to the Nation in future Olympia, WA 98506 COVID-19. I was very pleased time to jump on a Zoom call Mosteller and a “talking circle” years to serve in leadership 360-259-4027 to hear that the program with his fellow PLP participants for participants to speak about rolls or as employees in health [email protected] would move forward this year and program staff. On more themselves, their educational care or Tribal enterprises. One

District 11 – Andrew Walters When the second child came go out some with her “friends.” And that was true for Lucy living there, and the story of — Lucy I think was her name Both Jill and Rick would talk and Jim too. Jim had started how not communicating, not — they built a nursery on the about how she never brought taking drugs and, by example, knowing what to do, ignoring upper floor. Their first child, her “friends” around to meet so did Lucy. The drugs seemed the signs, and accepting the Jim, had moved into his own them. But life went on, and the to quiet the storm going on abuse can destroy even the bedroom by then. The upstairs pattern never altered — work, inside him. It wasn’t long until most average of existences. rooms were kind of separate couch, TV, sleep, work. It wasn’t Lucy and her “friends” started from the rest of the house. until the call from Lucy’s school selling drugs at the high school. We as Potawatomi are so blessed Sometimes so separate that counselor that Rick and Jill One night, Lucy gave one of by our culture, our Tribe and its the kids would be scared to started to be concerned. Seems her “friends” some methadone resources. Counseling is available be alone, so they’d sneak into like Lucy would come to school she had gotten. The “friend,” for families in distress. Drug each other’s rooms at night to with long sleeves. Some kids at new to Lucy’s circle, took the counselling is available for teens feel safe. Being upstairs, out of school had commented about drug and almost immediately in the midst of crisis. Alcohol sight and out of mind, made how she wore long sleeves to had a heart attack. You know, and drug dependency can be them feel alienated at times. cover the cuts on her arms. Rick no amount of grieving can addressed. Shelters are available and Jill didn’t know what to do ever heal the wound caused by for Tribal members who are Life continued, normal, other than talk with Lucy, but contributing to someone’s death. victims of domestic abuse. average, without requiring that proved unfruitful. Lucy, Don’t let their story be yours. Bozho We’re all family. When one of (Hello), much. Rick would go to work who just seemed not to care, Lucy went even further into early and come home at six would set with her earphones drugs. Jim would try to talk to us hurts, we all do, in one way t was a two-story house or so, sit on the couch and in, blankly staring at the wall. her, to convince her she wasn’t to or another. Talk with your kids. I— nothing unusual about watch TV. Jill didn’t work at Their insurance wouldn’t cover blame, but Lucy knew what she Talk with each other. Seek help. it. It was made of brick and first. She wanted to stay and counseling, and the cost was had done. Rick and Jill had no Don’t have a four-story house. idea what to do. They had lost wood, mortar and concrete. take care of the kids some, too much for their budget. Find information on behavioral You’d find one like it in most but when the finances started the ability to communicate with health and assistance by communities. It sat in an average to become an issue, she took By this time, Jim was failing at Lucy and even with themselves. school. He started to skip classes calling 405-214-5101 or neighborhood, surrounded on a job at a small company Jim quit school and left. Lucy online at cpn.news/bh. by average streets. It even had doing bookkeeping work. She and sometimes just never went went through episodes until average neighbors. You know, would get home at around five to school. When he was asked one night, unable to cope with For those experiencing domestic the kind that never pay attention in the afternoon, after picking about it, Jim would get angry, the death of her “friend,” she abuse, find information on to a lot. They’d just go to and the kids up at daycare. And scream and yell, and then walk took her own life. It was Jill CPN’s House of Hope at from work, the store and school so, the years went by. Each out of the house. The tensions that found her lifeless, hanging cpn.news/houseofhope or stuff. The Robinsons had bought year, same as the last, except in the house started causing in a tree. It was the same tree by calling 405-275-3176. the house when they were in for the occasional vacation. problems with Rick and Jill that years before held a swing their early 20s. Jill had just given too. They were always angry, that Lucy loved to play on. The Migwetch birth, and Rick had just gotten The kids grew and finally always critical of each other. It blow of losing her shattered (Thank you), a new job. They bought it a year reached high school age. It seemed like each blamed the Jill and Rick. They divorced, Andrew Walters after their wedding. That would was around that time that Jill other for the problems they sold the house and moved to [email protected] have been 20 years ago now. noticed Jim had been coming were having with their kids and their own worlds, just trying [email protected] They wanted a house they could home and going to his room with their life. But life went on, to forget the unforgettable. raise children in. It took a while almost immediately. He seemed and the pattern never altered to get the furniture, curtains to not like to talk to the family. — work, couch, TV, sleep, It would seem that the two-story and knick-knacks, but slowly He told Jill he had homework, work. It seemed easier to ignore house was more than that. It over the years, they built their but she noticed his grades were the issues than to confront was actually four stories — the home into what they wanted. dropping. Lucy was starting to them, and the alcohol helped. stories of each of the people WALKING ON SEPTEMBER 2021 19 Zachary David Gregson Lester Dwight Hash James Ray Nadeau again are his children, grand- Susan Elaine Bourassa Family Milot Family Tescier Family children, great-grandchildren, Campbell Watkins his favorite and only sister, Rita Weld Family Jean Oravetz, numerous nieces, nephews and so many loving friends and caretakers one could not list. Bama pi, Jimbo.

Jimmie Rhodd Rhodd Family

Jim left us to a better place on Jan 3, 2021. He was born Oct. 20, 1938, at the Cheyenne-Arapaho Hospital in Concho, Oklahoma, Susan Elaine Campbell Watkins, Lester Dwight Hash, retired to Francis “Frank” Nadeau and age 63, of Troy, North Carolina, major of the Kansas City Gloravena “Susie” Quinette. went home to be with her Lord Police Department, 83, of and Savior on Friday, July He was one-of-a-kind, loving, Smithville, Missouri, passed Jimmie was born on Oct. 4, 9, 2021, at her home after a thoughtful and generous to a away on July 17, 2021. 1931, in Pawhuska, Oklahoma. two-year battle with ALS. Zachary David Gregson, 22, fault and was loved by everyone The son of Noah and Opal passed away unexpectedly Lester was born on Sept. who knew him. We all have our Crume Rhodd, he passed away Susan was born Jan. 8, 1958, on July 21, 2021, due to stories, and they are blessings 28, 1937, to Weldon Alex on Jan. 24, 2021, in Enid. After to James Harrison and Frances complications sustained from we hold in memory of our times and Lue Bell (Melott) Hash, moving to Merced, California, Weld Campbell. Susan was being struck while riding his with him. A sister’s fond memory who resided on a farm near he enlisted in the U.S. Army raised in Candor, North motorcycle on the Pacific is at age 4 years, Jim started his Cogar, Oklahoma. He was a and was assigned to the Far East Carolina. She received an Coast Highway. Zack was an first job selling The Oklahoman proud member of the Citizen where he served honorably in associate degree in criminal active member of the Ventura on the southwest corner of Potawatomi Nation. In June Korea and Japan. After serving justice from Montgomery County Fire Department as a the Cordell, Oklahoma, court 1952, they moved to Oklahoma in the Army, he enlisted in the Community College in Troy. fire control worker assigned to City, where Lester graduated house. His mother Gloravena In 1987, Susan married her Crew 11, Dozer 12. Zachary’s U.S. Marine Corps in February from Capitol Hill High ran the Mistletoe Express one soulmate Chris. She started love for the service began at a 1954 and was honorably School in May 1955. He then block from there. If business her criminal justice career young age. At 16, he began his discharged in April 1958. entered the U.S. Army for was slow, he would slip into the working as a dispatcher with the career as a cadet, assigned to Fire pool hall next door to drum up After his discharge, Jim studied Montgomery County Sheriff’s Station 54 in Camarillo. Zack three years, being discharged in June 1958 as a sergeant. some sales; when he was caught diesel mechanics and worked for Office. Later, she began working contributed to the transition by Officer Mike — who would CCA (Farmland) for 15 years as a correctional officer with the of VCFD’s cadet to explorer Lester moved to Kansas City, ask, “Are you 18 or 21?” — he in McPherson, Kansas. He was North Carolina Department program and served as Post 50 Missouri, where he became would tell him, “No, just looking then transferred to Enid, where of Corrections and finished her leader. His family will be forever a member of the Kansas City for my momma.” He always had after 13 years, he retired. Jim career in 2016 in administration. grateful for the bonds he formed Police Department in March a paper route and continued in then signed up at the Waukomis Susan was a lifelong member of with his crew and fire family. 1960 and remained until July the paper business throughout Senior Citizen Center where Macedonia Presbyterian Church. 1988, retiring at the rank of his life, retiring from The Denver he volunteered for 30 years. She enjoyed taking trips to the Zack was born in Ventura, Post major. He enjoyed working newspaper. Jim graduated Jim married Janice Johnson beach with her family and loved California, on December 16, high school in 1957 from Greely with victims and helping new in McPherson, Kansas, June riding motorcycles. Most of all, 1998, and spent his life living High Colorado, then joined the in Somis. He graduated from officers develop. He said the 7, 1959, and had four children, she was a loving wife, mother, Air Force, and while enlisted, Daniel, Susan, Richard and Mi- sister and friend to all who Adolfo Camarillo High School most tragic event he worked met the love of his life, Tommie in 2017. He also attended was the Hyatt Regency skywalk chael. He is survived by wife, Jan- knew her. Susan is preceded Rae Sparks. They raised three ice, of the home; daughter-in-law, in death by her parents. Oxnard College where he took collapse. Lester then went to children, Sheila Henry (Bill) fire science courses and earned the Kansas City International Becky of Watonga, Oklahoma; and twins, Joe Nadeau (Susan) and three children, Susan (Ed) She is survived by her husband his EMT license. At a young age, Airport police department and Mike Nadeau (Collette). and three children of Wichita of 34 years, Chris Watkins; Zack was a member of Somis as acting chief, where he Falls, Texas, Richard (Laura) and daughters, Katherine Watkins 4-H where he began his love His grandchildren include remained nearly two years four children of Cushing, Okla- of Arlington, Virginia, and for the outdoors and service to Taylor, Brandon, Tony, Philip, reorganizing the department. homa, and Michael (Jamie) and Laura Watkins Dills and the community. Zack grew up Evan, Billy, Matt and Stacy, In 1993, he became a special one child of Waukomis, Okla- husband Michael of Troy; and enjoying football, baseball, golf, and he had many great- U.S. marshal, working at the homa. He was a proud Grandpa, brothers, Larry Campbell surfing, snowboarding, racing grandbabies he enjoyed! U.S. courthouse in security until Ggpa and PePa and had multiple and wife Donna of Fuquay- motocross, roping and hunting. 1999 when he finally retired. Varina, North Carolina, and Zack’s passion in life was being He was preceded in death grandchildren and great-grand- children. Preceded in death by Phillip Campbell and wife Sue outdoors, whether it was fishing, Lester met his wife, Hazel by wife, Tommie Rae Sparks his father, mother and son, Dan. of Garner. A graveside service riding horses, roping, hunting Marie Montgomery, in 1960 Nadeau; his parents; brother, was held on July 13, 2021, Dean Nadeau; and sweet quail, pig or deer, or riding and married on Nov. 19. He was a Purple Heart veteran at Macedonia Presbyterian grandchild, Stacy Henry. his dirt bikes and motorcycle. They were blessed with three of the Korean conflict and Church Cemetery in Candor He was also a member of the daughters, Gwendolyn Maria, a proud member of the with Rev. Steve Wilkinson and Ventura chapter of Quail Forever. Those of us left with sweet Linda Kay and Kimberlea memories until we meet him Citizen Potawatomi Nation. Rev. Beth Olker officiating. He was the happiest outdoors Diane. He always tried to doing the things he loved. assist them in any way possible Zack is survived by his parents, before and after they married. Mike and Erica Gregson; Lester was a member of the sisters, Hannah Gregson and Grace Community Baptist Brittni Morrison; brother-in- law, Colby Morrison; nieces, Church in Smithville, Missouri. Paisley, Pennie and Phoebe He was known for helping Morrison; grandmother, Sharon others when he could. He Gregson; girlfriend, Hope enjoyed woodworking and Zimmerling; and numerous liked to make miniature log aunts, uncles and cousins. structures and furnishings, and would enter them into Under the care of OneLegacy state and county fairs. and the VCMC staff, Zack carried out his final wish of Lester felt it was a blessing donating vital organs to those to have served three years in need. His selfless nature, in the U.S. Army and 36 compassion, bright smile and years in the police workforce. dimples will never be forgotten. He made a difference. 20 SEPTEMBER 2021 WALKING ON Elwanda Jacqueline 70s, she decided she wanted in the Navy and anchored in Chief) is a founding board Bank. He worked at C&S Guinn Jackson to take three months off to go New York City, he met the love member of this charity. until his retirement in 1975. Mars Family on trips with her kids. She told of his life, Frances Giorgianni. her pastor, and he insisted they He and Frances were married Memorials can be made to Bobby possessed an could not manage without her. in September 1952 and raised Chaplains Association for unforgettable, energetic and She told him she needed the three children together in Pasco, Public Safety – Thurston caring personality. He most break. He asked her to pray Washington. They adopted County at caps-tc.org. enjoyed spending time with about it during the coming their son Gregory in 1960 and his family and friends but week. She agreed. As she arrived daughter Kathy in 1963 before also loved dogs, his yard, at church the following Sunday, giving birth to daughter Jennifer Bobby Gene Morris books, movies, the beach, and the pastor ran out to her in 1972. They were married Edwards/LeClair Family watching sports and attending and asked if she had prayed for 53 years when Frances Georgia football games. about teaching. She told him passed away in May 2006. A memorial service with a yes. He smiled and said, “And?” disposition of ashes took place at Jacquie grinned and replied, After the Navy, Gene joined his Holy Trinity Church in Decatur. “God said I don’t have to.” She father working for the railroad. He retired from Burlington took her three-month break. In lieu of flowers, a memorial Northern Santa Fe Railway in donation may be made to Holy Elwanda Jacqueline “Jacquie” Jacquie was proceeded in death 1992. Gene was a longtime active Trinity Church, the American Guinn Jackson was born in a by her husband, Al; son, Franklin member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Heart Association or the chicken coop on an icy January Jackson; brothers, Russell Church in Pasco, the Moose American Diabetes Association. night in 1931. The chicken Gordon Guinn and Clinton Lodge and Knights of Columbus. coop part isn’t true, but she Lloyd; sister, Mary Ellen Guinn; He was also a proud member loved to tell it that way. son-in-law, Timothy Jenkins; of the Citizen Potawatomi and grandparents, Jake and Nation. Gene loved his time with Walter Whitlow She was born Jan. 22, 1931, Thunder/Vieux Family in Washington, Oklahoma, to Maggie Cartmill Guinn, and his family, grandchildren and Curtis Russell “Russ” Guinn Dennis and Peva Smith Mars. friends. He enjoyed camping, hunting, fishing, working in and Laura Evelyn Mars Guinn. Bobby Gene Morris, 91, of Those left to cherish her his garden and playing cards. Jacquie spent her early years in Avondale Estates, Georgia, memories are daughters, Laura He cherished his many years Goldsby and Maud, Oklahoma. passed away June 18, 2021, Anne Jackson and Karen in Pasco but especially loved At the age of 10, she and her after spending his final day Jenkins; son and daughter-in- retirement in Yuma, Arizona, family moved to Ojai, California. visiting with his wife and all law, Tadina Jackson; daughter- and the warm winters there with She graduated from Nordhoff three of his children. He is in-law, Joyce Jackson; three friends. He and Frances moved High School in 1949, and not survived by Jacqueline Garton grandchildren, Jason Jenkins to Yuma full time in 2004, and long after, she met Arthur Lee Morris, his wife of 68 years; and wife Kymber, Brad Jackson that became his new home. “Al” Jackson. While waiting and Kathryn Jackson; and his sons, Matt and Danny for the wedding, Al and his great-granddaughter, Kadence Gene is survived by younger and their wives Karen and brothers built a house, and Jenkins as well as numerous brother, Dennis (wife, Eliza- Barbara; his daughter, Marigene Jacquie worked at the Sunkist nieces, nephews and friends. beth) in Dayton, Washington; Mason; five grandchildren; plant in Ojai, packing oranges to son, Gregory (wife, Susan) in and one great-grandchild. make money to furnish the new Olympia; granddaughter, Sar- Bobby was born on Dec. home. They were married April Eugene Darrell Wright ah (husband, Colin McElroy); 7, 1929, in Burkburnett, Walter Carter Whitlow, 47, of 6, 1951. In June 1961, the family Navarre Family great-grandson, Griffin in Texas, a proud member of Powers, Missouri, went to join moved to Maud, Oklahoma. Shoreline; grandson, Paul in Citizen Potawatomi Nation his mother, Allison, in heaven Seattle; daughter Kathy, and Jacquie enjoyed singing, in Oklahoma. He grew up in on May 30, 2021, as a result of granddaughter Chloe, in Port- playing the piano, knitting and Stroud, Oklahoma. He excelled a dirt bike accident in Arizona. land, Oregon; daughter, Jennifer especially cooking and baking. at football and track at Stroud He leaves three sons, Michael, (husband, Greg Sullivan); and Her cookies and cupcakes were High School. After graduating, Dusty and Matthew, and two granddaughters, Carina (hus- eagerly anticipated at all her Bobby joined the Army where daughters, Carsyn and Cadie. band, Kane Kelley), Marisa, and kids’ school functions. The he continued to play football. Carter was born in Chandler, Angela in Pasco. He will espe- first year after all the older kids After his enlistment ended, he Arizona, to Michael and Allison cially be missed by his special graduated, she received a call accepted a football scholarship Whitlow and grew up in Parker companion of the last 13 years, from a student. He asked her to to the University of Georgia. and Goodyear, Arizona, with Floretta “Freddie” Ness of Yuma. bake for a class function because At Georgia, he played football his brothers, Cody and Clay he couldn’t imagine not having Gene was preceded in death from 1949-51, served in the and sister, Teresa, before moving her cookies. She happily baked by his wife, Frances; a baby Air Force ROTC, graduated to Missouri. He worked as a and decorated for the party. brother that died at birth; with a degree in business pipefitter and in construction. his mother, Gertrude; father, in three years and, most He is greatly missed. Jacquie was extremely proud importantly, met his wife Jackie. to be a member of the Citizen Charles; sister, Charline Mann; and brother, Jerry. Potawatomi Nation through Bobby Married Jacqueline Eugene “Gene” Darrell Wright her great-grandmother, Clarissa Gene’s ashes will be interned Garton on Aug. 23, 1952, Peltier Mars McGowen. passed away peacefully on July and they have been happily 20, 2021, in Yuma, Arizona. with his wife Frances in Pasco, Washington. married for 68 years. Bobby She was also very proud Gene was born June 13, and Jackie raised their three of being a member of the 1930, at home in Washtucna, In lieu of flowers, donations children in Avondale Estates, direct descendants and Washington, to Gertrude and can be made to the Chaplains Georgia. During this time, cousins of Davy Crockett. Charles Wright. Gene grew up Association for Public Safety Bobby continued to serve in the along the Snake River Junction Jacquie was a church piano – Thurston County. CAPS- U.S. Air Force as a reserve and and attended the one-room Star TC cares for firefighters, active duty officer, eventually player, group singer and soloist School House, then later Pasco for many years. She was also police officers and the people attaining the rank of colonel. High School. After graduating they serve. Gene’s son, Greg His primary employment was a Sunday school teacher for from Pasco High in 1948, Gene more than 50 years. In her late (retired, City of Olympia Fire as an executive officer in various joined the U.S. Navy. While capacities at C&S National Submitting CPN burial assistance through Tribal Rolls obituaries The $2,000 CPN Burial Assistance Fund is automatically available to all enrolled CPN members. You may fill out

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