Follow us on Twitter #CATribalTribune www.CheyenneAndArapahoTribes.org June 1, 2019 -Vol. 15, Issue 11 Deadly EF 3 tornado in El Reno, Oklahoma kills 2, injures 29

The American Budget Value Inn on Hwy. 81 in El Reno, Okla. takes a direct hit Saturday night May 25 from an EF 3 torando. (EL RENO, OK) Giant green dumpsters were tossed like rocks into motel rooms. Mobile homes were not just destroyed, they were shredded to scrap. Cars and trucks were spun around or flipped upside down. Doors and ceilings were ripped from walls, but picture frames, of all things, were left hanging, slightly askew. “A gust came up and our house tipped over,” Robert Gawhega said, citizen of the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes who survived the tornado that shook his trailer the way a child shakes a toy. “There I was, flying across the room.” Severe weather in El Reno on Saturday night made for a terrifying Memorial Day weekend. A brief but violent tornado tore a two-mile path through the outskirts of El Reno, demolishing much of the American Budget Value Inn motel and two of its neighbors, the Skyview mobile-home park and a car dealership. By Sunday afternoon, local officials said there had been two deaths. Tornadoes in this part of Oklahoma have a history of being wide and long, and of carving a path of mayhem for a dozen miles or more at times. But the tornado that struck El Reno was something different: Aerial images taken by local news outlets show a short, curvy finger of destruction from a funnel that only momentarily touched down, centering much of its bite on the motel, the trailer park and the auto dealer. “It’s a pretty devastating sight at this point in time,” El Reno Mayor Matt White told reporters on Sunday morning. “Pray for our community. We’ve been Gus Black hugs one of his granddaughters at an emergency shelter set up at the Jenks Simmons Field- house on Sunday. Black’s family of 10 escaped death when their home at Skyview Trailer Park was obliterated by the EF 3 tornado, with several family members sustaining major injuries.

through a lot here lately.” El Reno is one of several Oklahoma towns and cities that have been hard hit by widespread flooding over the past week in Oklahoma. On Sunday in El Reno, as emergency crews continued to search through the rubble, there was a quiet sense that the town had been spared a far deadlier disaster. Officials said everyone who had been inside the motel when the tornado struck was alive and accounted for. “A lot of them hid, and a lot of them gathered up down below,” White said of the motel guests. The two people who died were from the Skyview trailer park. Tim and Bridget Solis were both found deceased. Late Sunday afternoon, White said the final grid search through the debris of the trailer park and the motel had been completed, with no more victims found and none expected. But some of the nearly 30 people who were injured remained hospitalized in serious or critical condition, he said. Cheyenne and Arapaho citizens Preston and Lena Black, along with eight other family members were among those who were rushed to nearby hospitals. “All you can do is cry out to God, you call out to God because that’s all you can do when you are flying around like a piece of paper. No one or nothing in this world can help you with something like that,” Gaynell Black, Cheyenne and Arapaho citizen told news crews. “When I found out it was an EF 3 tornado, it blew my mind, who survives that? Nobody … but we did,” Gus Black said, who was the one who pulled the children of the two who died, Tim and Bridget Solis from the rubble. They attempted to save the children’s parents, but were unable to reach them under the mountain of debris that had piled on top of them. Skyview Trailer Park in El Reno, Okla. also took a direct hit from a EF 3 tornado And stories of heroic efforts to save people continued to unfold. The granddaughter of where two local residents, Tim and Bridget Solis lost their lives and many families Gaynell Black, 16 year old Camilla Russell was the one who pulled her grandmother, her loss everything they owned when their mobile homes were picked up like weightless father Preston Black and her mother Lena Black from the rubble. “It was so scary, I didn’t know if my mom was alive because she wasn’t moving. It toys thrown through the air, shredding them to heaps of metal. EF 3 TORNADO / pg. 13 PAGE 2 Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune Tsistsistas & Hinonoei

Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes and Ponca Nation take lead on MMIW billboard campaign in Oklahoma (OKLAHOMA CITY, OK) Oklahomans Council (GIC) and founder of Not Our Na- recently learned that the state ranks tenth in tive Daughters. the country for murdered and missing indig- The national billboard campaign was enous women (MMIW) cases. Now, two of initiated by the tribal alliance of the Rocky the sovereign Indian Nations within the state Mountain Tribal Leaders Council (RMTLC), are acting to bring awareness to what Senator the Great Plains Tribal Chairman’s Associ- Jon Tester D-MT) has described as “an epi- ation (GPTCA), and the Global Indigenous demic.” Billboards that strikingly convey the Council (GIC). Sister tribes of the Oklaho- tragedy will debut this week near Tulsa and ma Indian Nations, the Northern Cheyenne, Oklahoma City, in El Reno and Ponca City. Northern Arapaho and Ponca Tribe of Ne- “We both feel that this is a beautiful man- braska are part of the tribal organizations. ifestation of our desire to shed light on this The RMTLC-GPTCA-GIC alliance has ugly problem,” said Councilwoman Casey been at the forefront of recent efforts to se- Camp-Horinek of the Ponca Nation, when cure meaningful legislation to combat the commenting on the billboard campaign. MMIW epidemic. Three bills introduced this Councilwoman Camp-Horinek’s daughter, year by Senators Murkowski, Udall, Smith Suzaatah Horinek, is the Ponca Nation’s Di- and Cortez-Masto incorporate recommenda- rector and Coordinator for the Tribal Sexual tions made by the GIC-RMTLC-GPTCA al- Assault Support Program (TSAP). liance. In February 2019, Senator Jon Tester The billboard on the Cheyenne and Arap- (D-MT), introduced the Studying the Missing aho Nation is on I-40 West, near South Coun- and Murdered Indian Crisis Act. This legisla- try Club Road in El Reno. Cheyenne and tive call for the Government Accountability Arapaho Gov. Reggie Wassana said he is Office to conduct a full review of how feder- committed to supporting this proactive initia- al agencies respond to reports of missing and as some of the scenes were, the movie would the Not Invisible Act(H.R. 2438) with Dem- tive to raise awareness and make the MMIW murdered Native Americans and recommend not have made the impact it did without ocratic Congresswomen Deb Haaland and tragedy impossible to ignore. Wassana’s po- solutions based on their findings, originated them,” Grey Bull said, and explained that the Sharice Davids, which seeks to establish a sition reflects the findings of the 2018 Urban with the RMTLC. In April 2019, Senator Tes- billboards are to be seen in the same light. “In BIA-supported advisory committee on vio- Indian Health Institute MMIW report, which ter and Senator Steve Daines (R-MT) com- 15-years of conflict in Iraq the US suffered lent crime committed against tribal members. indicated that the situation for Native wom- mitted to championing the GIC-RMTLC- 4,541 fatalities. In 2016 alone, there were The Not Invisible Actis the first bill in history en and girls in Oklahoma could be far graver GPTCA amendments to Savanna’s Act and to 5,712 reported MMIW&G cases in the US. to be introduced by four Native Americans. due to underreporting and law enforcement fulfilling that commitment by securing the in- That should provide pause and context,” add- “The silent crisis of missing and murdered administrative failures. clusion of those amendments in the final bill. ed Tom Rodgers, Executive Vice President of indigenous women is wreaking havoc on our “I stand before you today, a full-blooded The amendments were previously supported Global Indigenous Council. families and our communities. All parties Native American woman, a Northern Arapa- by the bills original sponsor, former senator, “The initial imagery is stark for a reason. have to work together to raise awareness and ho/Hunkpapa Lakota. The statistics that hang Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND), Senators Lisa Mur- This can no longer be a silent crisis. The next find the most effective ways to fight this epi- over my head are these: I am among the most kowski (R-AK) and Cory Booker (D-NJ), wave of billboards leads with the headline, demic,” said Congressman Mullin. stalked, raped, murdered, sexually assault- and in the House, Congressman Ruben Gal- ‘Invisible No More,’” explained Rain Bear “If you have a pulse, MMIW impacts ed, and abused of any women in any ethnic lego (D-AZ), and Congresswomen Sharice Stands Last, Executive Director of Global you. You took form in the womb. You were group, and I am among those who suffer Davids (D-KS) and Deb Haaland (D-NM). Indigenous Council, adding that this is just nurtured surrounded by sacred water. You domestic violence 50 times higher than the Grey Bull relates the billboard campaign one part of the MMIW movement “being led were born of a life-giver, a woman, and that national average,” stated Lynnette Grey Bull, to the movie, Wind River, that brought the by many in many different communities.” woman was once a girl. Violence does not Senior Vice President of Global Indigenous MMIW crisis to the mainstream. “Disturbing Oklahoma GOP Congressmen Tom Cole discriminate, and neither should our laws, and Markwayne Mullin have just introduced concluded Bear Stands Last. MMIW march to be held in Cheyenne and Arapaho Country June 14 The Cheyenne and 405-295-1670. missing and murdered in- Arapaho Tribes will be There is a serious lack digenous women and girls hosting a Missing and Mur- of meaningful government creates a false perception dered Indigenous Women’s data documenting rates of that the issue does not af- (MMIW) March from 11 missing and murdered in- fect off-reservation Ameri- a.m. – 1 p.m., Friday, June digenous women and girls. can Indian and Alaska Na- many tribal cases. 14, 2019 beginning at the A recent study by the Ur- tive communities. According to the report, tribes’ Veteran’s Memori- ban Indian Health Insti- UIHI identified 506 the states with the highest al wall located at the main tute (UIHI) revealed that unique cases of missing number of cases were New headquarters of the Chey- only 116 of the 5,712 cases and murdered American Mexico (78), Washington enne and Arapaho Tribes in of murdered or missing Indian and Alaska Native (71), Arizona (54), Alaska Concho, Okla. Native women were women and girls across (52), Montana (41), Cali- The walk, orchestrated logged into the Department the 71 selected cities, 128 fornia (40), Nebraska (33), by the tribes’ Social Ser- of Justice’s nationwide (25 percent) were missing Utah (24), Minnesota (20), vices and Domestic Vio- database. persons cases, 280 (56 per- and Oklahoma (18). The lence Programs, is to bring U.S. attorneys’ offices cent) were murder cases, areas with the largest num- awareness to the epidemic declined to proceed with 37 and 98 (19 percent) had an ber of urban cases with an of murdered and missing percent of cases from Indi- unknown status. Approx- unknown status were Albu- Native women and girls an Country, according to a imately 75 percent of the querque (18), San Francis- throughout the country, and 2017 report published by cases UIHI identified had co (16), Omaha (10), and specifically in Oklahoma, the Department of Justice. no tribal affiliation listed. Billings (8). Both Albu- which was recently ranked Seventy percent of those Sixty-six out of 506 cases querque and Billings police as the 10th highest state in declined cases were due to were tied to domestic and departments acknowledged the country for MMIW cas- lack of evidence. sexual violence. Freedom of Information es. The Center for Disease Of the perpetrators Act requests but did not An invitation to submit Control and Prevention UIHI was able to identify, provide any records or in- names and photographs of reports that murder is the 83 percent were male and formation. missing loved ones is being third leading cause of death approximately half were When asked how many extended to all families to among American Indian non-Native. Twenty-eight Native American women be displayed during a slide and Alaska Native women percent were never found have gone missing or been show presentation in honor and rates of violence on guilty or held accountable. murdered in a given city, of all the mothers, daugh- reservations can be up to Under federal law, tribes nearly 60 percent of police The Domestic Violence and Social Services Pro- ters and sisters who have 10 times higher than the only have sole jurisdiction departments either did not gram are hosting a MMIW March to raise our voices Rosemary Stephens, Editor-in-Chief gone missing or have been national average. However, in crimes in which both respond to the request or to bring awareness to Missing and Murdered Indi- 405-422-7446 / [email protected] murdered. no research had been done perpetrator and victim returned partial or compro- geous Women and to help bring an end to this ep- To submit a photo for on rates of violence among are Native American, and mised data, with some cit- idemic. We are inviting submissions of names/pho- the event contact Miranda American Indian and Alas- even then, the most serious ies reporting an inability to tographs to be displayed on a slide show during this Muehl at 405-422-7592 or ka Native women living in crimes — including many identify Native victims, and event to honor the mothers, daughters and sisters email mmuehl@c-a-tribes. urban areas, even though 71 domestic violence offenses others relying exclusively who have gone missing or have been murdered. org. For more information percent of them live there. — are automatically sent on human memory. To submit a photo contact Miranda Muehl at 405- about the MMIW walk con- A lack of data and an in- to the federal government, This must change … and 422-7592 or email [email protected]. tact Wilma Big Medicine at accurate understanding of which declines to prosecute we must change it. Tsistsistas & Hinonoei Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune PAGE 3 Workshop provides basic Gaming Per understanding of the Cheyenne and Cap updates Arapaho Tribes 2006 Constitution and information (CLINTON, OK) If you Deadline for Change of mailed to you by calling have ever read the 2006 Con- Address and W9 forms is the Enrollment Department stitution of the Cheyenne and July 12, 2019. at 405-422-7600 or 1-800- Arapaho Tribes, it can seem If you have not moved 247-4612 ext. 27600 or overwhelming to the layman or do not have a name printed off on www.chey- eyes. In an effort to provide change, you do not need enneandarapahotribes.org/ a basic understanding of the to submit a Change of Ad- project/forms/. constitution, its history and dress and W9. You only The Per Capita office language, the Cheyenne and need to update your address will mail your check or any Arapaho Office of Tribal with the Enrollment Depart- letters concerning your ac- Council is conducting two- ment if these changes per- count to your mailing ad- day workshops for any tribal tain to you since the last per dress on Change of Address citizen who wishes to learn capita payment (December and W9. Once paperwork more about the 2006 Consti- 2018). is processed, the Per Cap tution. Please read instructions office will review accounts The first workshop was carefully on the Change of to determine if any past due held May 15-16 at the Clin- Address (COA) form and checks are available for re- ton Community Center in W9. The COA form requires issue. Clinton, Okla., with Joseph all areas to be filled out ac- Minor Change of Ad- Morsette, Seventh Legisla- ture legal counsel leading cording to instructions and dress forms need to be no- the trainings. The next two- to be notarized. If all areas tarized and signed by their day workshop is scheduled are not filled out according legal guardian. Only the le- for June 11-12 at the Concho to instructions, the forms gal custodial parent(s) or le- Community Center in Con- will be returned to you, gal guardian(s) listed in our cho, Okla. which will delay your pa- database system can fill this “I wanted to provide this perwork. The W9 requires form out on the minor’s be- training to our tribal members your full name, address, so- half. Should guardianship/ to help bring understanding Joseph Morsette, Seventh Legislature legal counsel leads the workshop entitled “A Basic cial security number, signa- custody change, an original to our constitution. I am also Understanding of the 2006 Constitution” in Clinton, Okla. (Photo / Rosemary Stephens) ture, and date. The address or certified copy of court or- working on a Robert Rules placed on the W9 will be der must be submitted to the the constitution,” Morsette dicting traditional law?” rently providing history for. of Order training to be held the address the check will be Dept. of Enrollment verify- said. Using an example, Mor- The next constitutional revi- at the tribes sometime before sent to. Please keep in mind ing guardianship. Originals Morsette said treaties sette used the tribes’ old sion should have it and then the annual Tribal Council this address should match and certified copies will be are the relationship with the Business Committee, which you would know all of that meeting,” Michelle Bigfoot, with Enrollment’s mailing returned via certified mail. federal government, while used to be the legislative and history.” Cheyenne and Arapaho Trib- address. If you have any Child the constitutions are what the governor’s office com- To receive a paper copy al Council coordinator said. The Per Capita office is Support, Student Loans, or are binding on the members. bined, but now those offices of the 2006 Constitution “Robert Rules of Order is in not responsible for sending Federal Garnishment ques- Many tribes did not have are separated out in the con- contact the Office of the our constitution, but it has a per capita check to the tions that need to be ad- a formal written constitu- stitution. The first one is the Tribal Council coordinator not ever been adopted by the wrong address if the tribal dressed, please contact the tion up until 1934, except Tribal Council, who has the Michelle Bigfoot at 405-422- tribes.” member has failed to submit Per Capita Office at 1-800- the Cheyenne and Arapaho duty of oversight, to approve 7430 or email mbigfoot@c- Bigfoot introduced Mor- a current and correct change 247-4612 ext. 27725 or 405- Tribes who had their 1929 contracts by the governor a-tribes.org. sette, who is a citizen of the of address form and W9 to 422-7725. All garnishments Constitution. and they can also pass laws If interested in attending Chippewa-Cree Tribe. Mor- the Enrollment Department. of Child Support, Student The constitution begins and repeal laws. The Legisla- the next Tribal Constitution sette will serve as an adjunct Please submit all COA Loans, and/or Federal Gar- with a preamble, which lays tive Branch appropriates the workshop, it will be held professor at the University of out what the two tribes, the money, confirm the judges, June 11-12, 2019 at the Con- Forms and W9 forms to nishments should be submit- Tulsa beginning in the Fall Cheyenne and Arapaho executive directors, all ap- cho Community Center in the Enrollment Department ted to the Per Capita office and holds a Master of Laws Tribes are trying to accom- pointees by the governor and Concho, Okla. by deadline. Forms can be by July 15, 2019. from the University of Ari- plish in the constitution. they pass bills and resolu- zona, a Master of Sciences “It begins with being able tions. The Executive Branch, in Criminal Justice from the to preserve and promote your they enforce the laws and the University of Great Falls and way of life and you will see Judicial Branch, they inter- a Juris Doctorate from the further down in the constitu- pret all the laws. University of North Dakota tion that the courts cannot in- “So each one is a co- School of Law. terpret traditional and cultur- equal independent branch of Although not a citizen of al ways of life as they have government. Separation of the Cheyenne and Arapaho no jurisdiction in those areas. Powers, there are many cas- Tribes, Morsette has stud- So your religious rights are es you could go over where ied the tribes’ 2006 Consti- protected. The preamble es- branches overstepped, an ex- tution since becoming em- tablishes education, justice, ample is back in the previous ployed within the Legislative guidance and direction all of legislature they had a special Branch in 2017. these areas to have the gov- prosecutor come on and they “We’re going to walk ernment function,” Morsette wanted to investigate the through this today and my explained stating it is a guid- executive branch. Once that hope is to be able to answer ing post where you will see person is confirmed, that po- some of your questions after the goals and how they are lice power goes to the exec- each section. This is open achieved in the constitution. utive branch, but they stayed book training and as we go With so much information over here with the legislative through different sections to absorb, breaking down the branch, which would be an of this (constitution) we’re tribes’ constitution by each example of the legislative going to stop and have a re- article and section would overstepping on their execu- flection on what we just went be the goal for the two-day tive authority or their admin- over and you can go back into workshop. Under Article II istrative authority. We will your constitution and find the Organization of the Govern- see that later down towards answer,” Morsette said to the ment, Section 1 Sovereignty, the end of the constitution 15-20 attendees. “There have Morsette points out the tribes where if you are acting out- been various constitutions possess inherent sovereign side the scope you may be with revisions over the years powers of government by sued in equity. If you are and the farthest back we can virtue of territorial integrity acting within the scope you go to a written constitution and democracy. may not be sued within law was the 1929 Constitution, “Inherent sovereignty. or equity under the legisla- which was a short four page What does that mean? It tive process,” Morsette said. document.” means a right or a privilege, One point made by Mor- Since the 1929 Constitu- something that is permanent sette was the lack of history tion, there have been three or essential. The constitution at the end of the constitution revisions over the years, the of the tribes shall be the su- stating why it was amend- 1937 revision, again in 1975 preme law of the land. All ed, “Why did you amend and then the passing of the the existing laws of the tribes the 1929 Constitution to the most current constitution in shall remain in full force and 1935 Constitution and on 2006. effect, unless such laws are and on, so your 2006 Con- “This constitution, like contrary to the terms of this stitution would have all the other laws, is a living, breath- constitution,” he said. “The pre-amendments and why ing document that is always tribes have the right to make you amended the 2006 Con- meant to be amended and to their own laws and follows stitution to be different than be current with the times. It the laws. The highest su- the 1975 version. You don’t shouldn’t be easy to amend a preme law of the land is the see history in there like you constitution, but current laws constitution … is that contra- do with the laws we are cur- and policies should reflect

Rosemary Stephens, Editor-in-Chief Cheyenne and Arapaho Latoya Lonelodge, Reporter/Advertising Sales Tribal Tribune 405-422-7446 / [email protected] 405-422-7608 / [email protected] 1600 E. Hwy 66, Suite 8, El Reno OK / P. O. Box 38, Concho, OK 73022 Fax: 405-422-8204

Society of Professional Journalists members Oklahoma Press Association member Native American Journalist Association member DISCLAIMER: Letters to the editor, opinions and commentaries do not reflect the views of the Tribune unless specified. Correspondence must be signed and include a return address and telephone number for ver- ification, otherwise it will not be published. The Tribune reserves the right to edit letters for clarity and length. Submission of a letter does not guarantee its publication. Photographs, news stories or other materials in this publication may not be reprinted without prior permission. Printed by Lindsay Web Press, Lindsay, Okla. 2010-2018 NATIVE AMERICAN JOURNALIST ASSOCIATION MEDIA AWARD WINNER & 2012-2017 AWARD WINNER OF THE OPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST PAGE 4 Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune Tsistsistas & Hinonoei Honoring Cheyenne and Arapaho graduates of 2019 Latoya Lonelodge Staff Reporter

(CLINTON, OK) Draw- ing near and close is the end of another school year, and with each school year anoth- er generation of graduates are closing each of their ed- ucational chapters with a di- Cheyenne and Arapaho ploma or degree. Celebrating and honor- Tribes receive the 2018- ing those graduates for their accomplishments in the ed- 2019 Community Partner ucational world is just what the Cheyenne and Arapaho of the Year award for Skills Tribes strive for. On May 9 the Cheyenne USA and Arapaho Tribes Higher On Thursday, May 16, and the Geary community. Education held their annu- the Cheyenne and Arapaho Other awards presented al graduation banquet at the Tribes received the 2018- were: Frisco Center in Clinton, 2019 Community Partner Okla. Honorary Educater of the 2019 Higher Education Graduation Banquet was Wanda Students throughout Whiteman, Higher Education coordinator, who plans to retire at the end of May after work- of the Year at the SkillsU- TSA Respected Award Cheyenne and Arapaho com- ing 40 years for the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes. Whiteman was gifted with a Pendleton SA Geary Awards Cere- Elliott Harrall munities attended the ban- blanket and plaque. mony at the Stegall Long TSA Involved Award quet with friends and family. Pictured l-r: Department of Education Assistant Executive Director Gordon Yellow- Field House in Geary, Hunter Davidson While attendees were greet- man, Higher Education Administrative Assistant Rachel Mowatt, Honored Educator Wan- Okla. SkillsUSA Member of the ed with smiles and congrat- da Whiteman, Higher Education Counselor Emily Wilson and Higher Education Portal SkillsUSA empowers Year Allyssa Pineda ulatory hugs, the banquet Counselor Raven Morgan. (Photo / Latoya Lonelodge) its members to become SkillsUSA Involved was lavished with graduation world-class workers, lead- Award Michael Blackcrow décor, dazzling centerpieces tinue their education because else, maybe I’m working to do it, never will make it, and ers, and responsible Amer- SkillsUSA Educated the tribes only get stronger work the rest of my life,’ but now you moved on, when on the tables, candy delights ican citizens. SkillsUSA Award Art Lorenez when we have more educat- continue, that’s what you you cross over that line you and a catered meal. improves the quality of SkillsUSA Respected With a warm welcoming, ed students, more educated always need to remember is go to the next line, which is our nation’s future skilled Award Olivia Littleraven the tribe’s strived to convey people, it’s important for that I’m always going to con- getting your college educa- the message of support for longevity of the tribe, it’s im- tinue,” Wassana said. tion and some people aren’t workforce through the de- SkillsUSA Connected native students and honor portant for the success of the Cheyenne and Arapaho going to make it there either, velopment of Framework Award Dason Dutton their accomplishments. tribe and it’s important that Lt. Gov. Gib Miles shared some people aren’t going to skills that include person- SkillsUSA Motivated “Graduating and going we move forward and keep how basketball was the rea- cross over that line, when al, workplace, and techni- Award Samantha Paukei through 12 years of school moving forward but we need son he obtained his educa- you cross over that line, you cal skills grounded and continuing on to college, those people educated, so if tion and with graduation separate yourself from other Cheyenne and Arapaho Led by their chapter ad- whether it’s community col- you feel that maybe college comes big responsibility. people,” Miles said. “So con- Tribes Lt. Gov. Gib Miles visor, Mr. McPherson, the lege or one of the bigger in- isn’t for you, give it a try.” “Many of you graduate gratulations for everybody accepted the award on be- group will participate in stitutions in the state, is hard, “I know some people say, from high school and you who’s crossed that line and half of the tribes, express- the national competition in it’s a challenge and some ‘my parents are making me cross over a line, there’s peo- if you did it in high school ing gratitude for the part- Louisville, KY this sum- do it,’ do it because you’re ple that are on the other side there’s another line in front of you who are questioning nerships between the tribes mer. whether you have capabil- going to see success later on of that line, there’s people of you and don’t give up, just ities or want to further your in the years, it becomes eas- on this side of that line and keep pushing.” education in college, try it, ier as days go by because I when you cross over that While graduates and their step out there,” Cheyenne was there and sometimes line, you’re a high school families listened attentively, and Arapaho Tribes Gov. there are days where you educated person and you’re their attention then turned Reggie Wassana said in wel- might think, ‘I just want to leaving people behind with to the keynote speaker for coming the students. “En- quit and I just want to home, other people on that side the evening, Nicolas Barton, courage the students to con- I just want to do something that didn’t make it, didn’t GRADUATION / pg. 8 Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes prepare for Census Day 2020 sus benefits communities participants statistical areas and the economy by pro- program or PSAP and it’s viding federal funds, grants essentially just a program and support to states and to update our statistical ge- counties based on popula- ographies, which are geog- tion totals and breakdowns raphies that we use to tabu- by sex, age, race, and other late and then share our data factors. The success of the and so this is important be- Census Bureau ultimately cause these geographies are depends on participation used for the next 10 years,” and collaborations with or- Lori Etheredge, geographer ganizations and individuals said. to get people to participate. Etheredge said they’ve With years of planning been working closely with for the upcoming 2020 cen- the tribes since March of Working as a team to prepare for the 2020 Census are sus required, the Cheyenne this year and that it will be (l-r): Gordon Yellowman, Lori Etheredge, Christine Mor- and Arapaho Tribes are ac- a yearly process. ton, Samuel Riffel, and Dorothy McKinney. (Photo / Latoya tively participating to pro- “It’s been great working Lonelodge) vide accurate statistics to with the tribes, we’ve had a Latoya Lonelodge tion and households, for the the census. really good dialogue here, I Staff Reporter census. From reports across While the census com- think learning to understand America, more than $675 mittee held monthly meet- some of the challenges with (CONCHO, OK) April billion in federal funds sup- ings, they invited geog- tribal geographies has been 1, 2020 will mark Census port states, counties and raphers from the Dallas a learning process,” Ether- Day, a prominent day that communities’ vital pro- Regional Census Center edge said. comes each decade. Once grams, such as education, with the United States Cen- Tribal Planner with the every 10 years residents housing, transportation, sus Bureau to offer their as- Planning and Develop Pro- within the United States are employment, health care sistance with maps. gram Christine Morton said counted, as well as popula- and public policy. The cen- “We’re working on the CENSUS / pg. 14 BRIEFS AT A GLANCE The 13th annual Native information or to register vis- June 17-19, 2019 in Las Tropicana Hotel & Casino in Women Aug. 6-9, 2019 at the Cox American Economic Devel- it www.nativenationevents. Vegas, Nev. For more infor- Las Vegas, Nev. For more in- July 18-19, 2019 in Phoe- Convention Center in Okla- opment Conference org. mation or to register visit formation or to register visit nix, Ariz. For more informa- homa City. For more infor- June 10-11, 2019 at the www.falmouthinstitute.com. www.falmouthinstitute.com. tion visit www.falmouthin- mation or to register visit Pechanga Resort & Casino The 10th annual Native stitute.com. www.diabetesinindiancoun- in Temecula, Calif. For more American Healthcare Con- Indian Country Enroll- Understanding the Indi- try.com. information or to register vis- ference ment Summit an Self-Determination Act: Introduction to Case it www.nativenationevents. June 10-11, 2019 at the June 25-27, 2019 in Las Contracting and Compact- Management in Indian The 21st annual Tax org. Pechanga Resort & Casino Vegas, Nev. For more infor- ing Under P.L. 93-638 Country Conference National Inter- in Temecula, Calif. For more mation visit www.falmouth- July 16-17, 2019 in Las July 23-24, 2019 in Las Tribal Tax Alliance (NITA) The 8th annual Native information visit www.na- institute.com. Vegas, Nev. For more infor- Vegas, Nev. For more infor- Aug. 13-15 2019 at the American Housing Confer- tivenationevents.org. mation or to register visit mation or to register visit Buffalo Thunder Casino & ence Budgeting for Tribal Of- www.falmouthinstitute.com. www.falmouthinstitute.com. Resort in Santa Fe, N.M. For June 10-11, 2019 at the Contracting and Pur- fice Managers and Admin- more information visit www. Pechanga Resort & Casino chasing Certificate Pro- istrative Professionals Professional Commu- The 2019 Diabetes in In- ncai.org. in Temecula, Calif. For more gram June 27-28, 2019 at the nication Skills for Native dian Country Conference Tsistsistas & Hinonoei Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune PAGE 5 Movie nights and community walks to help promote National Prevention week Latoya Lonelodge Staff Reporter

(CONCHO, OK) All across the United States com- munities are planning and working together to bring awareness to mental health issues and substance abuse in hopes of saving lives. Through the week of May 12 -18, National Prevention Week convened with com- munities and organizations across the country to come to- gether and bring awareness to the importance of substance use prevention and positive mental health. On May 17 the Cheyenne Photo / Latoya Lonelodge and Arapaho Tribes’ Tradi- tion Not Addiction Program night, programs within the Cheyenne to reach the youth through talking to and Native Connections held an aware- and Arapaho Tribes worked together to them it’s like a speech that they hear ness walk and community movie night make the event a success. over and over again. We decided to get event at the Concho Community Center “We have Vocational Rehab, who our yard signs that are out there that in Concho, Okla. The event was geared has graciously brought the popcorn for give actual information and actual tips, towards raising awareness of underage us, we can’t have a movie without pop- so as they’re walking they will be learn- drinking, prescription drug misuse and corn and we also have Health Education ing at the same time. I’ll have a Q&A suicide prevention among youth and with Courtney Reeder, she is going to once they’re done with the walk,” Ra- young adults. be doing a dance activity with the youth mos said. “We chose this week because it’s and they’ll have no idea that they’re ac- After settling down from the walk National Prevention Week with three tually learning their culture through the and participating in dance lessons to different priorities. One is underage activity that she’s going to do and learn- traditional dance songs, all eyes were drinking, one is prescription drug abuse ing the steps to a dance. The Cheyenne locked on the movie presentation of The and the other is suicide awareness tar- and Arapaho Tribes’ Department of La- Incredibles 2 for the evening. geting all youth ages 12-24 and so we bor has their booth set up as well, then “I think it’s just really awesome that just figured we would combine all three the Department of Health, PFS and Na- not only tribes but also the whole Unit- activities together and put into one tive Connections are putting the event ed States has something planned every event. We also had the exact same event on,” Ramos said. single day of the week this past week last night in Clinton and we had a real- As participants walked different to bring awareness to all three priorities ly good turnout there as well,” Raquel signs were strategically placed along and I just think that it’s really awesome Ramos, Partnership for Success (PFS), the walking route outside the commu- that our kids’ families are coming out prevention specialist said. nity center promoting facts and infor- tonight, because from what I’ve seen While children, parents and com- mation related to mental health, alcohol over the years working in prevention munity members gathered to partici- and substance abuse. is that one person can’t do it, it takes pate in the awareness walk and movie “I think the greater outcome would an entire tribe to raise a child,” Ramos be education, because whenever we try said. Native American Notions to be featured during New York fashion week Latoya Lonelodge sign company, Native Amer- the Great Promise for the ing outside the stage at the Staff Reporter ican Notions, she can design American Indians non-profit Austin Powwow when she just about anything with a and that’s who puts on the realized the audience wanted Fashion week is an unde- native twist incorporated. Austin Powwow, which is to see powwow dancers and niably prominent week for Taking great pride in her Nov. 2 … after September the details of regalia up close fashion designers and brands Native American heritage, and October I have no time and not from the stands. to display and unveil some of Blassingame looks forward to do anything else, it’s cra- “You know, they do want the latest and current trends to featuring her design piec- zy busy, it’s the largest pow- to see powwow outfits and in fashion worldwide. Of es during fashion week, the wow in Texas and brings in what we still wear, so my the four fashion capitols in most influential and momen- about 20,000 people,” Blass- collection is called Native the world (New York, Lon- tous week in the fashion in- ingame said. Wear Today, which will be don, Milan and Paris), Na- dustry. Blassingame said she’s what we wear in the pow- tive American fashion will “It is so overwhelmingly grown as a designer from wow circle but also what we make its first appearance on exciting, I already have all within a year as she was in- can make and incorporate the fashion runway on Sept. of these ideas of the dresses I vited again for the Austin In- into formals, that’s what my 7 during New York Fashion want to do, they want to also tercultural Fashion Show. collection will be and that’s Week at the hiTechModa see powwow outfits and see “Last year I just showed where I have my inspira- Fashion Event scheduled more of the powwow regalia up, I stayed in my corner, I tion, I was like, ‘okay I get, to be held at the National side of fashion, but I’m also helped my models get ready it they want to see the detail Geographic Encounter in going to put in about five and I just kept to myself. I up close and not from the the heart of Times Square in formals also,” Blassingame didn’t mingle with the other stands,’ I get it now and I’ll Manhattan, N.Y. said. designers and I was being probably incorporate danc- Cheyenne and Arapaho Since her first fashion shy … I jumped right in this ers on the outside stage this citizen and designer, Nan show at the Intercultural year and I’m like wow I’ve year,” Blassingame said. Blassingame, was intro- Fashion Show in Austin, really grown from a year While gracing the runway duced to the world of fashion Texas, Blassingame’s fash- ago. I was up and helping ev- with her native designs and and runways over a year ago ion statements on the run- erybody get dressed because creativity through fashion, and has since been invited to way have made an impact on you don’t have that much Blassingame hopes to bring participate in various shows fashion as she has continued time,” Blassingame said. awareness to the rich heri- featuring Native American to gain attention. With the hiTechModa tage of American Indians. culture and designs. “It’s unbelievable because New York Fashion Show ap- “I hope it brings more With social media boom- I just started in fashion last proaching fast, Blassingame awareness that we’re still ing with opportunities, year with entering the Austin already has her mind set on here, that we can do what any Blassingame came across Intercultural for the first time the fashion pieces she would other designers can do from Fashion designer Nan Blassingame’s younger sister hiTechModa’s page on Face- and right off from entering like to feature. whatever nationality, we can Kyla Sage, models one of Blassingame’s fashion pieces at book and started following that I was interviewed by “I’m going to do some design formals, everyday the Austin Intercultural Fashion Show. (Submitted photo) them, eventually leading her Art Today London Magazine tea dresses, a velvet one, and wear, I just want to show that to apply for their upcoming and before the past two this I was sponsored by TeTon we’re here and that we can with Catherine Schuller, cre- York Fashion Week, it’s a show in the fall. weekend, with every show I Trade Cloth, they donated do it too and still incorporate ative director, to combine very popular event, it brings “I had just started follow- was in a magazine, I was in some trade cloth, which is 85 our tribal designs into the fashion and technology. about $500 million into the ing that page a week prior, the Native Max Magazine, dollars a yard for me to make everyday wear, anyone can “Technology is such a big city, I think more than the I applied at midnight that the American Indian Arts a dress out of, I’ll be making wear it or whoever wants to part of our lives right now World Cup or more than the evening late at night and Magazine, before this week- a dress out of that and I’m buy it can work with it, I re- and I feel like the fashion in- US Open combined … peo- by 9 a.m. they were already end it was three shows and wanting to incorporate quill ally want to bring awareness dustry needs so much help in ple come into the city and giving me a call the next three magazines, it was cra- work, of course, my hus- to MMIW, which is catching terms of marketing itself bet- they want to go to a show so morning, they wanted me to zy,” Blassingame said. band does quill work so I’ve on more now, we’re here and ter, it’s too exclusive, it’s too we want to make it an enjoy- talk to their curator and they And with the craziness already told him, ‘you’re I feel like being from Texas wasteful, it’s too irrelevant able experience for them and never had a Native Amer- of juggling work, a home going to have to help me, I I don’t get as much recogni- and inaccessible,” Schuller accessible on some level,” ican designer before, they life and designing clothes, have this idea in my head, tion because I’m way down said. Schuller explained. were really excited to have Blassingame has a lot to look you’re going to have to be a here, but there’s the power From renowned fashion “We feel we’ve been an applicant that was Native forward to every year as pro- part of it,’ and I want to do of the internet and social me- designers to celebrities, New able to fill that leash and do American … they thought gram director at the Austin a shell dress, jingle dresses dia,” Blassingame said. York Fashion Week attracts it very well, fairly, justly it would go great with the Powwow. and a red collection in honor While in their second sea- a notable amount of people and creatively, and I feel as National Geographic never “I’ve only done five of the Missing Murdered In- son, hiTech Moda is a fashion each year. though it’s really going to set having Native American de- shows, that’s all the time I digenous Women (MMIW),” forward innovative runway “We want to be that sec- the standards for the industry signers before,” Blassingame have, from having a family Blassingame said. project that was produced by ond tier but a high level ac- because it’s changing, New explained. to take care of and working, Blassingame said her in- Pamela Privette, CEO and cessible show that people York Fashion Week is not With Blassingame’s de- I’m the program director for spiration comes from work- producer. Privette teamed can go to and enjoy New FASHION WEEK / pg. 12 PAGE 6 Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune Tsistsistas & Hinonoei

College

Victoria Birdshead Michael Blackowl Janelle Burgess Tori Castleberry Bachelor of Science Associate of Arts Associate of Arts Master of Science Sitting Bull College Redlands Community College Redlands Community College Southern Nazarene University

Nicolette Casula Dylan Fox Lauren Hamilton Bachelor of Arts Bachelor of Science Associate of Science University of Oklahoma Oklahoma State University Canadian Valley Vo-Tech

Thomas Lee Walk-Up Lamebull Angie ‘LB’ Littlecalf Corey Sage Associate of Arts Bachelor of Arts Bachelor of Science Haskell University Southwestern Oklahoma State University Oklahoma State University

Angela Spottedwolf Anna Spottedwolf Amaris Sweezy Christian Wassana Associate of Arts Associate of Science Bachelor of Science Associate of Arts Redlands Community College Redlands Community College Oklahoma State University Redlands Community College Tsistsistas & Hinonoei Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune PAGE 7

High School

Angela Bates Summer Bellymule Jennifer Birdshead Tvli Elijah Ne’Ayhe Birdshead Geary High School Mustang High School El Reno High School Latta High School

Ashley Rose Blackbear Nikki Brower Charlee Bushyhead John Coppage Watonga High School Epic Charter School El Reno High School Geary High School

Alexander D’Angelo Curtis Kionna Fourhorns Dejanna Harjo Gabriel Harjo Garber High School Riverside Indian School Kingfisher High School Weatherford High School

COLLEGE GRADUATES HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES NOT PICTURED: NOT PICTURED: Brent Bacon Ethan Hawk Sierra Bellymule Kenneth Beartrack Kaitlyn Hill Lindsay Crossley Oscar Birdshead Mackenzie Holmes Dylan Fox Zachary Black Teral Kauley Amanda Gould Madelyn Blackbear Summer Little Elk Brady Hoover Jacob Catagas Jerek Loneman Yolanda Hall Jasmin Cunningham Reuben McDaniels Melia Hawk Mahlon Curtis Gustavo Moctezuma Cassidy Seals Jacon Deere Sierra Morton Amber Simpson Mario Elk Shoulder Jaxson Panana Mark Smith Angilena Ford Edelmira Pekah Arlene Spottedwolf Keenan Fourhorns Jacob Pollock Tashina Tahdooanippah Elizabeth Fuller Damon Redbird Kylie Taylor Ryan Gilbert Maria Rendon Marcy Turner Zachary Goodwin Ralph Reynold Jr. Kylie Washa Keely Green Timothy Richard Justice Hamilton Kyla Sage Star Whiteshield PAGE 8 Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune Tsistsistas & Hinonoei

High School

Sadie Moon Haury Jadyn Hicks Ethan Mark Hines Jonas Horse Horatio High School Calumet High School Clinton High School El Reno High School

Dayna Lime Ricky Mayes Jonathan ‘Chaz’ Meadows Emil Silas Miles Geary High School Rosemont High School Mustang High School El Reno High School

Lexi Mosqueda Darrin Orange Christopher Patton Jr. James Pedro Elk City High School Hammon High School Kingfisher High School El Reno High School

Congratulations to all the 2019 Graduates

Congratulations to all the 2019 Graduates Tsistsistas & Hinonoei Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune PAGE 9

High School

Leanna Russell Tyson Russell Kyla Sage Andria Shimizu El Reno High School Moore High School Epic Charter School Mustang High School

Madison Slinkey Ashley Victoria Sternlof Minnie Cora-Eve Tallbear Allison Taylar Tucker Riverside Indian School Mustang High School Thomas Fay Custer Bethel High School High School

Cesar Wandrie Malcolm Whitebird Bobby Whiteman Darian Birdshead Clinton High School Watonga High School El Reno High School Geary High School

CONGRATULATIONS

Jorrian Whiteshirt Erin Willis Clinton High School Hartshorne High School PAGE 10 Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune Tsistsistas & Hinonoei

Canton Clinton

Miranda Chadwick Charles Washington Alayna Barcindebar Catalaya Bennett Jaden Collins Aden Gaona

I learned my A-B-C’s and 1-2- 3’s, to tie my shoes and when to say please, But it’s time to move on. I’ve had lots of fun, But look out Kindergarten - Jose Gonzales Luther Lampkin Araceli Penaloza Richard Slinkey Gavina Whitley Here I Come! Garcia Concho

Cross Akins Joaquin Arroyo Pedro Avila Jaden Blackowl Jose Crisostomo- Reynoah Escobedo Ramirez

Aizen Hartico Chloe Hernandez Serena Lamebull Tenet’Ke Tebe Levi Logan Nail Dietric Orosco

Yvette Perkins Gabriel Pollock Morningstar Redbird Kealan Reyes Zayne Tahlo Ricky Twins Tsistsistas & Hinonoei Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune PAGE 11

MILESTONES

FAMILY

CELEBRATIONS

MILESTONES

MEMORIES PAGE 12 Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune Tsistsistas & Hinonoei Eating How to Add Whole Grains to Your Diet healthy Tara Conway, MS, RD, LD, CDE continuedFASHION from pg. 5 WEEK for DIABETES C&A Diabetes Wellness Program Adding more whole ing skills. Any bread la- quinoa or wheat berries into of air-popped popcorn con- grains to your family’s meals beled “whole wheat” must a salad. tains 3.5 grams dietary fiber is a smart move. Not only be made with 100-percent Looking for other ways and 95 calories. Remember do they provide vitamins, whole wheat flour. Breads to make half your family’s it’s the air-popped popcorn, minerals and other nutrients labeled “seven grain” or grains whole? not the microwave popcorn. needed to keep your family “multi grain, are not nec- Start with breakfast. Also, try 100-percent whole- healthy but whole grains also essarily whole-grain prod- Choose fiber-rich, whole- wheat or rye crackers. contain dietary fiber, which ucts. Check the ingredients grain breakfast cereal, oat- NYPD CAMP JUNE may help reduce your risk of to make sure whole-wheat meal or whole-wheat toast. 10-14, 2019. REGISTRA- heart disease, some cancers, flour or another whole grain Check the grams of dietary TION IS OPEN! FIRST diabetes and other health is listed as the first ingredi- fiber per serving; more fiber COME FIRST SERVE!!! problems, such as constipa- ent and find loaves mostly will keep you full longer. DEADLINE APPROACH- Cheyenne and Arapaho citizen and fashion designer tion. with whole-wheat or another Choose whole grains over ING SOON! ONLY 4 Nan Blassingame was invited a second time to the Austin Grains are divided into whole-grain flour. refined grains when selecting SPOTS LEFT. Intercultural Fashion Show in Austin, Texas. (Photo / Troy two subgroups: whole grains Add Whole Grains to breads, buns, bagels, torti- If you picked up an appli- Ridley) and refined grains. Whole Your Meal llas, pastas and other grains. cation, please return to me as grains contain entire ker- Want to add more whole 3 grams fiber is a good soon as possible. Please let just going to be buyers, in- use the platform, you have nel-the bran, germ and endo- grains to your meals? Change source, 5 grams is the best. me know if you are not going dustry insiders, all the people to really open up everyone’s sperm. The 2015-202 Dietary your cooking style to include Experiment with different so we may open those spots who get to sit in the front row mind, so I talked to Nan Guidelines for Americans more whole grains and boost grains such as buckwheat, up for other children. Thank are going to be there for that, about her line and I really recommend making half of the dietary fiber content of bulgur, millet, quinoa, sor- You! it’s really opened up a whole felt as though I could make it the grains you eat whole, so meals. Partner whole grains ghum, whole rye or barley. For more information and new market, so we’re fulfill- experiential,” Schuller said. choose whole grains instead with vegetables-brown rice To save time, cook extra bul- tips on health and wellness ing that,” Schuller said. Schuller said fashion of refined-grain products and vegetable stir-fry or a gur or barley and freeze half contact Tara Conway at the Blassingame will be fea- could be a powerful tool to whenever possible. whole-wheat pita stuffed to heat and serve later as a Diabetes Wellness Program tured in the sustainability education and move people’s How to Find Whole with salad. Or fortify mixed quick side dish. 405-422-7685 or 800-247- division set for Sept. 7 at 4 minds, heart and soul. Grains dishes with high-fiber ingre- Enjoy whole grains as a 4612 ext. 27685 or email p.m. “It opens them up to dif- Finding whole-grain dients-add bran or oatmeal snack. Popcorn is considered [email protected]. “I feel that the sustain- ferent concepts and different bread takes some label read- to meat loaf or toss cooked a whole grain and three cups able development goals are cultures and allows them to very important to stress and see not in a superficial way to educate people about … but on a very deep level, I feel the inclusivity and the what it’s going to mean, New diversity that Nan represents York Fashion Week needs to is a very good tie in, plus you be promoting these kind of A Tribute Song don’t get better than mother things and what it’s about, earth as someone, as an enti- it doesn’t get more diverse ty that we need to honor and in the cultures that’s hap- A Modern Warrior, Charles Surveyor sought that we need to promote her pening, I just feel as though in a way and not exploit her, the New York Fashion Week Peace, Justice and Prosperity so I want to bring it back and platform is very popular and By Patrick B. McGuigan, The City Sentinel really show the whole cul- it’s a great way to get a lot ture, the climate, the whole of people exposed and to our So long as I retain consciousness, I will remember the cantly bolstered hopes concerning the return of Fort Reno feeling of that, that educate ideas,” Schuller said. names, and the stories, of Charles Surveyor and Archie Hoff- lands to the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes of Oklahoma. people because you have to man, Cheyenne & Arapaho leaders who deserve the respect Time passed, but in the Clinton administration era there of all Oklahomans, and all Americans who thirst for justice. emerged real reasons to believe the land would be restored to Before their encounters with the white man, the Two Tribes its rightful owners. – Cheyenne and Arapaho – wandered where, when and as A White House Meeting they wished across the heartland of North America.With the In one fateful meeting, President Bill Clinton appeared to coming of white settlement to the Great Plains, in sometimes all-but-promise that would be the outcome (in more than one uneasy alliance, the Tribes settled on five million acres in accounting of the session). Which brings us back to Charles the northwestern portion of what is now Oklahoma. Pressure Surveyor and Archie Hoffman. mounted to restrict their home area. Boundaries of a joint Hoffman, and no doubt Surveyor, had concluded long be- reservation were fashioned in an executive order during the fore the Clinton presidency that “You don’t get something administration of President Ulysses S. Grant in 1869. for nothing. Not in this world.”Hoffman said at the time he A subsequent executive order during the administration of had noticed the increasing clout of the Cherokee tribe and President Chester A. Arthur, in 1883, reserved 9,500 acres of its leaders – influence garnered in part from significant cam- that reservation for “military purposes exclusively” – with an paign contributions to both major political parties. explicit proviso that if and when the U.S. military no longer He and other leaders of Oklahoma’s smaller Indian Na- needed the land, it would return to the tribes. Fort Reno was tions were frustrated by the ability of the larger tribes to lever- A new tradition intended to protect both settlers and tribes, and in some ways age sovereign rights, leavened with those significant political it functioned as such. gifts, to gain local and national market advantages. at Temple’s Tyler At the time of individual allotments of Native land, in Hoffman hoped adding political money to the merits of the 1890, the reservation per se began to fade away. Two Tribes’ case would open doors. A promised 1996 contri- School of Art: Grads However, Fort Reno was not included in that cession. That bution of $100,000 to the national Democrats’ drive for Bill last sentence is not a matter of historical interpretation, but of Clinton’s reelection was supposed to grease the skids to get a historical fact. (The land claim was explicitly recognized as serious look at the issue, a consistent dream of the Cheyenne leave with a diploma recently as 1999, when John Leshy, a Department of Interior & Arapaho throughout their post-treaty unified era. [DOI] officer, analyzed the course of events and accumula- In a meeting with the president as the contribution was and a piece of art tion of precedents touching the area at and around the fort.) put together in June of that year, one of Hoffman’s close al- By Susan Snyder For modern Americans, the last nine decades of this story lies later said, Clinton affirmed “something to the effect” of Students who graduated conclusion of their studies must be kept in collective memory, not rubbed out or blown “I’ll see what can be done about it.” As for Charles Survey- from Temple University’s at Tyler, something they away because the Two Tribes are small compared to other or, he later recalled that Clinton fundraiser Terry McAuliffe Tyler School of Art last would keep and enjoy for players in Indian Country. A sketch follows.In 1937, 1,000 promised “the president says he[‘s] gonna do something, he’s week took part in a new the rest of their lives,” said acres of additional Fort Reno lands were transferred to what gonna do it.” tradition in the making: Tyler dean Susan E. Cahan. became the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) in the U.S. Department As for Ft. Reno, over strong objections Surveyor signed They received a surprise About 500 prints were of Justice. the wire for the campaign pledges.(Hoffman and allies in the piece of art from a success- handed out at graduation on When the Indian Claims Commission (ICC) studied Na- Tribes were able to send $87,671.74 – all they had in their bank tive land claims in 1946, the fort lands were still in military account. Later, the total contribution reached $107,671.74.) ful alumnus, along with May 10. The school plans use, so commissioners took no action concerning the facility When Clinton/Gore campaign officials tried to press for even their diploma. to ask a different alumnus (by then an Army “remount” station).In 1948, with Fort Reno more, he went on television and in the newspapers to attack The artist was Edgar each year to create a piece no longer needed and scheduled for phaseout, approximate- those he believed were trying to pressure the tribes. All this Heap of Birds, a multime- of art for graduates. ly 8,500 acres were “transferred” to the U.S. Department of led to the Two Tribes getting the funds back (overnight fedex) dia artist, educator, activist, Heap of Birds explained Agriculture. – and millions of dollars worth of publicity for the cause of and member of the Chey- his choice of words in a In some ways, that dubious shift was the key moment in the return of Fort Reno.The exercise did lead the administra- enne Nation who received Temple news release: “If the U.S. government’s apparent intentions to prevent the land tion to address the issue legally, in part. (In February 1999, a master of fine arts degree you participate in your from returning to the Two Tribes, despite treaties and Pres- the government issued an opinion stating that tribe had never from Temple in 1979. He community then may- ident Grant’s order of 1869.As a flimsy way to retain “mil- been paid for the property and should have gotten it back in is known for his text-based be you have the ability to itary” land use, the Agriculture Department contracted with 1948 after the military left.)Even though Vice President Al conceptual art. represent it. I look at these the U.S. Foreign Aid Service to train mules for use in Greece Gore reportedly backed the cause, return of the land never His silkscreen print fea- three words like that — and Turkey. The Two Tribes did not have an opportunity to happened. Along the way, Terry McAuliffe denied to report- tured the phrase “Learn, you’ve got this privilege inject their land claim anew, as the shift took place without ers he had ever made the promise on President Clinton’s be- Share, Lead” in white let- to know, then the issue congressional hearings. half.Senator Fred Thompson, who led a lengthy investigation Then, in 1951, the “new” use of the land was extended for of campaign finance, concluded, with some sympathy for the ters on a red background, is to share it and maybe three years. tribes, “We know what was in the minds of the men from the the school colors. provide leadership if you In 1954, the military shifted gears again, saying it need- tribe. And that is they thought that they had done themselves “I wanted these stu- have something to offer. ed the land for training linked to American involvement in some good.” The C&A contribution, and other 1996 issues, dents to receive something What are you going to do Indo-China. As part of that shift, documents relating to the became fodder for Thompson’s investigation. In Congress concrete to celebrate the to help?” Army-Agriculture discussions and memorandums over the steps were taken to put mechanisms in place that have thus land were “locked up” in classified status. Although some far prevented return of the land. of those documents were declassified in 2005, the remain- The U.S. Court of Appeals in Washington, D.C. ruled the der have stayed largely out out of public view. This year, the Tribes’ claim was time-barred, even though the tribes entered Department of the Interior answered a long-pending open re- evidence that legal status of the property had been deemed cords from request submitted by CapitolBeatOK. While those classified for fifty years after having been placed on standby documents had fresh nuggets, nothing startling emerged. military status in the 1950s. In the 1960’s, DOI and the General Land Office still recog- The courts have never really ruled on the merits of the nized the “efficacy” of the original executive orders. In 1965, Cheyenne & Arapaho claim to the former fort – a claim sup- when the tribes reached a $15 million settlement over lands ported in U.S. Interior Department briefs through several ceded in 1890, the Fort Reno lands were not included in the administrations, but opposed by the U.S. Department of Ag- accord – meaning the land claim remained active. riculture. Thus, the issue of clouded title is still outstanding. In 1975, hopes for eventual justice renewed when the Fed- The Two Tribes have slow-played efforts over the past couple eral Surplus Property and Administrative Services Act was of decades. Tension remains around title to the land, and the revised to provide that property within original Native res- use of the property. Development of the mineral rights and ervation boundaries, if found to be “excess” for an agency’s other matters remain sources of disagreement. needs, were to return to DOI, in trust for tribes. This signifi- A TRIBUTE SONG / pg. 19 Tsistsistas & Hinonoei Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune PAGE 13 Two Oklahoma tribes to build a bison meat processing plant OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Two Native American tribes in Oklahoma are planning to build a meat processing plant in an effort to take a more active role in bringing the nations’ bi- son herd to the marketplace, a tribal business official said. Nathan Hart, business direc- tor for the Cheyenne and Arap- aho Tribes, noted an eatery at the American Indian Cultural Center and Museum currently being developed in Oklahoma City could sell the meat plant’s first bison entrees. Hart said the U.S. Depart- ment of Agriculture-inspected processing plant being built in El Reno will be chiefly for bi- son, but the planned 150-acre Its bison flock stands at roughly 400 head, mostly in Con- (around 60-hectare) site will also take in cattle and wild cho. Hart said his tribes’ leaders are crafting the legal frame- game, The Journal Record reported. work to turn the processing plant into a business unit under “When we started this, we had a smaller processing fa- a corporate holding company. A viability study will also be cility in mind,” Hart said. “But as we’ve stepped out and let instituted. more people know what we’re doing, the plan expanded up The Cheyenne & Arapaho aren’t the first tribes to culti- to 3,000 animals per year. “This won’t just be for our pro- vate bison herds for internal and profitable uses. The Quapaw cessing purposes, either. We’re in contact with a lot of other Cattle Co., for instance, contributes around 20,000 pounds producers in western Oklahoma to fill a need for production (around 9,000 kilograms) of beef and bison to Quapaw Pub- there.” lic Schools, while also donating to area food banks, day care The tribes’ farming program already has supply chains for centers, churches and Quapaw Tribe Title VI nutritional pro- bison meat to be sold in dozens of the region’s stores. grams to provide protein for a healthy diet. continuedEF 3 from Tornado pg. 1 was so hard, everything was on top of everyone, on top of my grandma. I saw my mom’s feet, she wasn’t moving, I was crying and screaming, and even though my dad was really hurt bad he lifted up the stuff and we pulled my mom out. She finally woke up but she couldn’t walk.” Preston and Lena Black were hospitalized at Uni- versity of Oklahoma Medical Center. Preston’s injuries included two broke shoulders, broken collarbone, four broke ribs and a collapsed lung. His wife Lena suffered a fractured pelvis, broken collarbone, nine broken ribs and a fractured shoulder. Alisa (Guzman) Hamlet, whose home was also oblit- erated by the tornado, searched frantically for her chil- dren, all of whom were found alive and suffered minor injuries. Another miracle. “We could have absolutely seen a lot more destruc- tion and death,” White said. “We feel blessed. I’ve been strong to this point, but I’m getting ready to break. We Sixteen year old Camilla Russell (far right) helped rescue her grandmother Gaynell Black (center), her father Preston can’t have any more rain. I think the measurements Black and her mother Lena Black immediately after the EF 3 tornado destroyed their home in El Reno, Okla. showed that we had a little under 18 inches of rain in the last 31 days in El Reno. We just need a little break.” aunt, who was asleep in Forecasters with the National Weather Service in near- the trailer at the time, was by Norman said that, based on a survey of the damage, injured. The mobile home the tornado was an EF-3 on the enhanced Fujita scale, was pushed onto its side. with peak winds from 136 to 165 miles an hour. (EF-5 Hours later, Gawhega, is the most powerful category.) The forecasters said the who is in his late 60s, went tornado had been about 75 yards wide at its widest point, to El Reno’s chapter head- stayed on the ground for 2.2 miles and lasted only about quarters of the Veterans of four minutes. Foreign Wars, where sur- It came six years, almost to the day, after El Reno was vivors from the motel and hit by another EF-3 tornado. On May 31, 2013, an un- the trailer park slept on usually wide tornado barreled through the area and killed American Red Cross cots eight people. in the ballroom. Gawhega, El Reno is a working-class, largely rural suburb of an elder of the Cheyenne nearly 17,000 people about 25 miles west of Oklahoma and Arapaho Tribes, who City. Neighboring El Reno, is the main headquarters of walks with a cane, wore his the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes of Oklahoma, with a Oklahoma State Univer- lot of tribal citizens residing in the town of El Reno. Cat- sity sweats, he is a retired Gaynell Black (right) tells news reporters, “All you can do is cry out to God, you call out tle graze in the greenery on the sides of the highways, campus groundskeeper, as to God because that’s all you can do when you are flying around like a piece of paper. No beneath billboards for oil field services companies. The he walked around the low one or nothing in this world can help you with something like that.” skyline of El Reno is dominated by grain silos, the tall- brick building. est structures in a town whose history traces back to the Gawhega said more than a century ago, before El Reno establishment in 1874 of Ft. Reno, a frontier Army post was founded, one of the chiefs prayed for the ground to they Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes agreed to loan to the be safe from tornadoes, and since then tornadoes have federal government. often skirted the edges of El Reno rather than hitting it Tornado sirens blared in the town at 10:27 p.m. on directly. He said he was grateful to have survived the Saturday, the mayor said. Four minutes later the torna- storm. do struck, damaging the southeastern section of the town “The spirits are protecting it,” Gawhega said of the near Interstate 40. A television news reporter, Aaron Bril- town. He said he was grateful to the spirits as well,“I am beck of the local CBS affiliate, KWTV News 9, showed just glad to be alive.” the power of the storm as it came through the town, post- Sofia Heck, another resident of the mobile-home park, ing on Twitter: “The hotel across the street from us was said she and her boyfriend were on a date nearby when leveled. Victims are being pulled from the rubble.” the tornado hit. Her teenage sons were at home alone. At a convenience store called Domino across the street She had spoken with them on the phone during the storm, from the motel, the assistant manager, Jeffrey Pointer, but feared for their safety and rushed back home, only said the evening had started quietly, with just a sprinkle to find the roads blocked with debris. Police officers of rain. stopped her from going in one entrance, but she sneaked “But then it started pouring,” he said. “The rain was in through another. Her children were safe, and her home blowing sideways. You couldn’t see anything.” had only minor damage. The wind blew so hard that the windows started shak- “I’d had no idea,” Heck said, choking back tears. ing. The power cut off, Pointer said, and an emergency “That could have been the last time I saw them.” generator kicked on. Then, as quickly as it had started, Nancy Salsman, auxiliary president of the El Reno the roaring wind abated, leaving only rain in its wake. V.F.W., said on Sunday that there were 25 people taking The phones in the store started ringing, he said, with shelter inside, many of them still sleeping after having callers asking if everyone in the store was all right. Then been up all night. She said they had arrived quietly, and people started walking in the door, drenched. Some had nearly expressionless. no shirts, Pointer said. Some were injured. He said a man “I think they’re in shock,” Salsman said. “Some of came to him with his arm bleeding. them lost everything.” “He said: ‘Can you call me an ambulance? I’m hurt Go Fund Me pages have been set up for tornado vic- real bad,’” Pointer said. tims. At the Skyview trailer park, neither Gawhega nor his PAGE 14 Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune Tsistsistas & Hinonoei continuedGRADUATION from pg. 4 George Hawkins Memorial and I’m just glad you’re here He continued his education Treatment Center’s program tonight,” Barton said. and applied for the gradu- director. Starting his college years, ate program and within two “I just want to share Barton attended the Univer- years, Barton received his with you all that we are the sity of Oklahoma (OU) and master’s degree. products of the strongest while experiencing college, “I used my brief history to ancestors, our grandmas he also experienced life’s help illustrate a few points, and grandpas who have ex- many hardships. Without plan, dream, think, aspire to perienced so much, it’s we a job and having to endure do great things, be inspired, as Indian people who are life’s unfortunate events that hope and pray, tackle the resilient. Resiliency is hav- were out of his control, Bar- work ahead of you, just a lit- ing that capacity to recover ton had made the decision to tle tid-bit of information on from difficulties, it’s built in move back home. that, it’s on you to move that toughness. I’m going to talk “I didn’t want to leave degree forward. I know I’m this evening and give you Norman because I enjoyed talking to some high school a quick bio sketch of how my newfound freedom, so I graduates but my fellow col- I came to be where I’m at worked for a little while at a lege graduates, talk about today and tell you the main clothing store and then again that next line, move forward, purpose of my speech to- life happened, I lost my job there’s a master’s program, night and what Wanda re- there, with no way to pay there’s a doctorate program, ally wanted me to push and bills, pay for a cell phone, there’s more education out that’s on health, health care pay for insurance, let alone there, just continue educa- Honored Educator Linda Hulbutta is honored with a Pendleton blanket at the Higher workers and health support, water, gas bill and get to and tion, I really wanted to strive Education Graduation Banquet in Clinton, Okla. Pictured l-r: Higher Education Adminis- just working in the field of from work. I had to make the and get that forward,” Barton trative Assistant Rachel Mowatt, Higher Education Counselor Emily Wilson, Department health, because that’s where decision to move back home, said. of Education Assistant Executive Director Gordon Yellowman, Cheyenne and Arapaho I’ve been most of my career I felt like I was giving up a And as the banquet Tribes Lt. Gov. Gilbert Miles, Honroed Educator Linda Hulbutta, Cheyenne and Arapaho with the Cheyenne and Arap- lot but I really wasn’t. I was moved forward into the Tribes Gov. Reggie Wassana and Higher Education Portal Counselor Raven Morgan. (Pho- aho Tribes,” Barton began. coming back home, I was evening, honored educators to / Latoya Lonelodge) While Barton was born able to get a job at Lucky were praised for their work and raised in the Clinton Star Casino here in Clinton in the education field. initiated the program called can vouch their gratefulness started hollering and they community, he admitted that and just really hit the ground Cheyenne and Arapaho CETA. Whiteman worked for and that person is Linda said you know you’re right, he only knew of a few native running,” Barton said. Tribes Higher Education Co- for Dr. William Berlin, a Hulbutta. With El Reno Pub- you have the spirit of being students like himself that Barton said after a few ordinator Wanda Whiteman professor at SWOSU, who lic Schools serving approxi- an Indian today and we’re all graduated. years of working and moving and El Reno Public Schools was interested in the South- mately 650 native students doing it collectively and to- “Someone had a year- up in various employment Indian Education Director ern Cheyenne language. Dr. in pre-k through 12th grade, gether,” Yellowman said. book and she went through positions, something was Linda Hulbutta were the Berlin hired Whiteman after from 37 tribal nations, Hul- Yellowman said that and counted, we had about still lacking. honorary educators of the he became the director of butta works tirelessly to pro- wearing the eagle feather is 15 Cheyenne and Arapaho “I still wanted to contin- evening. the Cheyenne and Arapaho mote the heritage and tribal very sensitive to high school tribal members and that was ue and finish my degree, so “Wanda’s touched all of Tribes Education Program. customs of each student. graduates, whether they can in 8th grade at our 8th grade I had a mentor, he was di- our lives through education, In 1975, the Indian Self-De- Hulbutta graduated from wear an eagle feather or re- graduation, 12th grade when rector of mine and he really not only has she touched termination Act and Educa- the University of Central galia during graduation cere- I graduated in 2000, we just pushed me to get back into our lives in education but tion Assistance Act, Public Oklahoma with a Bachelor monies. had five Cheyenne and Arap- school, being an educator she’s also prayed for our Law 93-638 was passed, of Science in Family and “Linda was instrumen- aho graduating, so 15 down himself, well I wanted to ap- education, she’s a strong allowing the tribes to con- Child Development. tal last year in helping the to five, one can wonder what ply but I had to pay off the believer and goes to church tract and administer contract “One of the things Linda school develop policy, some- happened to the 10 … when- debt I owed to OU,” Barton every Sunday and she has a funds and in 1977 the edu- is sensitive to is culture, she thing in writing, an agree- ever Lt. Gov. Miles talked explained. strong faith, I really appre- cation office moved to Con- works for the El Reno Public ment called the Spirit Char- about leaving behind never Barton said after his debt ciate her doing that, she’s cho, Okla., marking the start Schools in the Indian Edu- ter, those kinds of things in looking back, it’s true and to OU was paid off in full, always praying for all of us of Whiteman’s career with cation program and she al- bringing those issues to the that’s my experience of what he was ready to roll. Barton to achieve our educational the Cheyenne and Arapaho ways calls me when she has superintendent, bringing I went through. Just seeing took his credits from OU and goals and accomplish those,” Tribes for the next 40 years. a question. I feel good about that voice on behalf of us, it our tribal members not hav- transferred to Southwestern Gordan Yellowman, Depart- Whiteman attended Red- that because it shows respect helped us and I thank her for ing that support system, it Oklahoma State University ment of Education assistant lands Community College for people that have cultural doing that,” Yellowman said. was tough, just thinking back (SWOSU). executive director said. and attained two associate knowledge but it also shows Following the speakers, at what we could have done, “That’s when Higher Edu- While Whiteman has degrees in psychology and respect in respecting that it was time to recognize the we always want to have those cation and Wanda Whiteman worked most of her entire corrections, she received her culture when we deal with guests of honor … the 2019 strong homes, strong parents was there, she helped me get life, she learned the val- bachelor of arts from SWO- dynamics with the El Reno graduates. One by one, grad- and strong grandparents, we my degree and see that it got ue of hard work at an early SU in 2007 and earned her Indians. I spoke at the school uates were called by name to know sometimes that’s not through and I really appreci- age growing up on a farm in master of science degree one time and I said ‘every be presented with a Pendle- always the case but you’re ate that,” Barton said. Hammon, Okla. Whiteman from Southeastern Oklaho- one of you in this room, ton blanket and monetary here, you are a product of With Higher Education’s graduated from Riverside In- ma State University in 2016. you’re Indians and you’re check incentive for gradu- your strongest ancestors and help, Barton eventually grad- dian School and then moved In the El Reno Public El Reno Indians,’ and I think ating. And with each name you’ve got support with you uated from OU with his de- to Weatherford, Okla., where Schools, there is one educa- that was a good response called, a loud applause fol- and that is very encouraging gree and did not settle there. the Department of Labor tor that many tribal students because they all got up and lowed. 2020 CENSUS: Why do we do the Census? continuedCENSUS from pg. 4 The decennial Census is than $675 Billion in Federal Grant Application Data instead of being invited to that she was designated as involved and highlighting required by the U.S. Consti- Funds. Allocation of Federal respond on their own. This the tribal liaison for the the importance of the up- tution, Article 1, Section 2, to Distribution of State Funds is done in very remote areas 2020 census. coming 2020 census, Mor- be done every 10 years. Funds supporting your state, Tribes need to reach out like parts of northern Maine, “The first step is that we ton said the root of it comes Those who wrote the county and community’s vi- to and encourage their tribal remote Alaska, and in select Constitution wanted to give tal programs. citizens to participate in the American Indian areas that had received some maps down to federal funding. the people power in their Accurate local statistical 2020 Census. Looking at the ask to be counted in person. from the census bureau and “The tribes’ receive a government. They wanted data. 1990 Census data, American The Census Bureau have we wanted to make sure lot of federal funding and a the # of representatives in Data for the community Indians/Alaska Native pop- special procedures to count that all of our tribal service lot of that is based on pop- Congress to reflect the coun- & grants. ulations were undercounted people who don’t live in areas are included in these ulation and that’s what the try’s population. Census Data is Used All at 12.2%, and undercount of households, such as students maps so that we could get census does is they tell you Brief History: Around You: 0.7% in 2000, and at 4.9% in living in university hous- our Cheyenne and Arapa- what the population is in 1790 First population Residents use the census 2010. ing or people experiencing ho people to respond to the your area. It’s going to be Census taken in the U.S. to support community initia- How the 2020 Census will homelessness. census,” Morton explained. helpful for the tribe in the 1860 First American In- tives involving legislation, invite everyone to respond: Your Information is pro- In her efforts to inform end because we want to get dian/Alaskan Natives are quality-of-life and consumer The Census Bureau has es- tected by Law the committee of the maps, all of our people to respond counted as a separate popu- advocacy. tablished 3 methods to par- The law requires the Cen- Morton said there are sev- to the census,” Morton lation category Businesses use census ticipate that will help give sus Bureau to keep your in- eral tribal employees from said. 1890-1950 Census takers data to decide where to build Indian Country a more accu- formation Confidential and various departments that With participation and use observation to identify factories, offices and stores, rate count. Every household uses your responses only to were familiar with map hopes of responding, Mor- AIAN’s which creates jobs. will have the option of re- produce Statistics. The CB making, understanding ton said there will be three 1960-1970 Self-identifi- Local governments use sponding to the census three cannot publicly release your maps and familiar with the option available through cation replaces observation the census for public safety ways: online, by mail, or by responses in any way that 1980 Census Bureau ac- and emergency prepared- phone. Households will re- could identify you. CB will service area. online, phone or mail. tively seeks AIAN Input ness. ceive a familiar “knock on never share your information “We had some questions “If a lot of people ha- 1990 Tribal Governments Real estate developers the door” by a Census work- with immigration enforce- about certain areas in our ven’t responded by using Program was developed use the census to build new er if they do not self-respond. ment agencies, law enforce- tribal service areas so we those three methods then 2000 Name changed to homes and revitalize old The Census worker will up- ment agencies such as the invited our contact, Miss they’re going to do the American Indian and Alaska neighborhoods. date addresses and collect FBI or police, or allow it to Dorothy McKinney with door-to-door method, the Native (AIAN) Program Purpose of Census for data via handheld census be used to determine your the census bureau, we had census online response ac- This will be the 24th Cen- Native American Population: detector that is capable of eligibility for government her come down and help us tually starts March 23, it sus over a span of 200 years, Determine size of Indian working offline. benefits. and answer questions about extends for three months, that includes 45 Presidents, population Ninety-four percent of Over the year’s leaders in these maps, Kyle Spotted- so all I’m trying to do is just 58 presidential elections and Determine its geographic Household will receive their the American Indian com- horse and Samuel Riffel try to educate our people 116 Congresses. distribution census invitations in the mail munity have been heard ex- were also very instrumen- about the census, because a What is so important Provide basic demograph- Almost five percent of pressing concerns that their tal in completing the maps, lot of them probably don’t about the Census and how is ic characteristics households will receive their tribal memberships exceed just because of their ex- know what the benefits are the data used? Tabulate and provide data census invitation when a the count of residents by pertise in reading maps in in responding to it and the Determines how many useful to Tribal Governments census taker drops it off. In the Census Bureau in their GIS training that they have. governor (Reggie Wassa- Representatives each state and American Indian Organi- these areas, the majority of tribal areas. They may well gets in Congress. zations households may not receive be right. American Indians They’re pretty much the na) has agreed to do a PSA After each census, state Tribal Uses of Census mail at their home’s physi- possess several of the traits ones that were completing for the census … I’m just officials use the results to re- Data: cal location (like households noted to indicate a lower ex- the maps for us so they’ve trying to get information draw the boundaries of their Population Characteris- that use P.O. boxes or areas pected response rate to the been very helpful in help- about the census out there congressional and state leg- tics for planning, recently affected by natural decennial census. American ing with this task,” Morton and to encourage our peo- islative districts, adapting to Housing needs, assess- disasters). Indians are a minority, they said. ple to respond,” Morton population shifts. ment and priorities, Less than one percent of are often in poverty and of- In getting the communi- said. Federal Agencies use the Employment Develop- households will be counted ten live in remote rural ar- ties within the service areas results to distribute more ment & training, in person by a census taker, 2020 CENSUS / pg. 19 Tsistsistas & Hinonoei Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune PAGE 15 Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes Remember Veterans at Memorial Day Event Memorial Day has more meaning than just another day off from work or summer sales event. It is a day of re- membrance for the veterans who gave their lives while honorably serving the coun- try in arms and a day of ob- servance to honor their sacri- fices while in service. The Cheyenne and Arapa- ho Tribe’s Office of Veteran’s Affairs (OVA) showed their appreciation for veterans, past and present, on May 23 at the annual Veteran’s Me- morial Day event held at the R.E.Sp.E.C.T. Gym in Con- cho, Okla. Tribal veterans, communi- ty members and their families U.S. Veterans Matheson Hamilton, Ed Wilson and Guy Hicks Jr., salute the presenta- gathered to pay respect to the tion of post colors at the Memorial Day Event held at the R.E.Sp.E.C.T. Gym in Concho, fallen soldiers of the past and Okla. (Photo / Latoya Lonelodge) to honor the veterans of the present, one veteran to anoth- fell in love with giving back to our people, giving back to the er. Tribal elder and veteran Ed Wilson provided the invoca- veterans, giving back to our families, doing whatever we can tion; the Buddy Bond Color Guard presented the post colors do to help build that bridge with our veterans back into the VA and the flag and Memorial drum songs were performed by system and make that bridge solid so it doesn’t break again, Medicine River Drum Group. if you have any questions about any veteran’s services please Department of Labor Executive Director Erwin Pahmah- feel free to come and see me,” Willey said. mie welcomed veterans and attendees before lunch, provided While briefing veterans on the available services that OVA by Lucky Star Casino. provides and assists with, Willey showed his appreciation in OVA Director George Sykes was the speaker for the me- helping other veterans like himself. morial event and discussed tribal purification ceremonies and “I like hearing news, when I come to programs and events talked about alternatives for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder like this when we have a gathering of veterans come together (PTSD) among veterans. that come up to me and say, ‘hey I got a letter from the VA, In closing, Veterans Service Officer Russell Willey thanked I got an award letter, I got a check, and I got a back payment veterans for their attendance and their service to the country check,’ to me that warms my heart,” Willey said. while explaining his duty to help veterans as well. For more information on veteran’s services contact the Of- “When I found this job I also fell in love with this job, I fice of Veteran’s Affairs, 405-422-7622. How seed saving is repairing the past for Native Americans By Liz Susman Karp Reclaiming food tra- ditions, a big part of it. “Rematriation allows Native Americans to pro- duce foods and seeds and gain a true sense of sov- ereignty,” says chef Sean Sherman. In just two years, Native American activ- ists and local farmers have “Much of the importance handling and conversa- and training center turned just six pounds of of revitalizing our tradition- tions that explore historical called the Indigenous Food rare Mohawk red bread corn al foodways and bringing and current traumas be- Lab in Minneapolis. seed from the variety’s last back these heritage variet- tween these groups, there’s Sherman and White two remaining ears into ies of seeds is that they are a lot of peacemaking and serve on the board of Seed nearly 2,000 pounds of a cornerstone to our cultural healing that can happen,” he Savers Exchange, the coun- grain, sparking a remark- identity and our understand- explains. try’s largest public-access able cultural regeneration ing of who we are,” says Greene and White’s ref- seed bank. Last year, White for the Akwesasne Mohawk Rowen White, a Mohawk erences to healing are the forged an ambitious and tribe of northeastern New seed keeper who created underpinning of the proj- successful trial partner- York. the Indigenous Seed Keep- ect, the painful recall of ship, similar to the Native Thanks to an innovative ers Network. She collected colonialism and the Trail American Seed Sanctuary, seed-saving venture that seeds from elders and en- of Tears, in which Native between Seed Savers Ex- began in 2017 on a patch trusted Ken Greene, founder Americans were forced change and her Indigenous of land in Kingston, New of Seedshed, to grow them. from their lands. James Seed Keepers Network to York, for the first time in “These foods and seeds fig- Beard Award–winning chef return 25 seed varieties to decades, the Akwesasne can ure prominently in our cos- Sean Sherman, Oglala La- 11 tribes in New Mexico eat a much greater variety mology, our creation story kota, says that Native Amer- and the Upper Midwest. of their long-established, and many of our cultural icans hid and sewed seeds Fundraising covered costs, healthy foods. They can stories,” she explains. in their clothing to protect the exchange’s farm grew use those seeds in planting Greene established the them. “The European colo- seeds, and culturally sen- and harvesting ceremonies, country’s first seed-saving nial culture had no sense of sitive guidelines, protocols just as their ancestors did. library in Gardiner, New those really deep connec- and best practices were de- Seed saving is an ancient York, and owns the Hud- tions and stories at all,” he veloped. More importantly, practice in which seeds and son Valley Seed Company. says. the tribes retained control of reproductive matter from He believes that, like water, Sherman is on a mis- their seeds, many of which plants are saved for future seeds should be treated as sion to revitalize and bring are traditional, culturally use. In nods to the past and a resource that’s available awareness to indigenous appropriate and not com- sustainability, seed libraries to all, shared and protect- foods, which began when mercially available. This and seed-saving projects are ed. Each year, the Native he sought to understand year, 20 individual variet- popping up across the coun- American Seed Sanctuary what his ancestors ate in the ies will be rematriated to try. grows one variety of corn, late 1800s. In his research, 16 tribes across the country. Purposefully named eight varieties of beans, two he discovered how unsung White expects the effort to the Native American Seed varieties of squash and one indigenous agriculture is, grow. The organizations Sanctuary, this initiative variety of sunflower in a even though these seeds have identified hundreds to safeguard and produce “four sisters” configuration that are now traditional in and even thousands of va- seeds to return to the Akwe- to return to the Akwesasne. all corners of the world rieties with tribal origins sasne is a collaboration be- White calls this seed return changed the entire world, found in the vaults of pub- tween the tribe, Seedshed, “rematriation” instead of he says. “You see corn in its lic institutions, seed banks, the Hudson Valley Farm the more commonly known many varieties and all the universities, seed keeper Hub and the Indigenous term “repatriation” because different kinds of squash, collections and elders. Seed Keepers Network. For the work of seeds belongs beans, tobacco, sunflowers “Rematriation allows Native Americans, it is spir- to women in Native Amer- and amaranth,” he says. “So Native Americans to pro- itually meaningful because ican culture. She describes many beautiful seeds are out duce foods and seeds and they believe that seeds are rematriation as “powerful there.” His cookbook, The gain a true sense of sov- living, breathing beings healing.” Sioux Chef’s Indigenous ereignty,” says Sherman. from whom they are de- Greene says one of the Kitchen, won a James Beard “This work honors the scended. Native Americans most emotional parts of Award last year. In May, he grand lineage of ancestors also believe in a symbiotic the project is the three-day received the group’s lead- who kept these seeds alive relationship in which the harvest, where he invites ership award for his work, despite adversity and chal- seeds, or seed relatives, take the Akwesasne, local farm- which includes founding the lenges,” adds White. “It’s care of them by providing ers, high school students nonprofit North Ameri- a renewed commitment to food. In return, they protect and Mexican migrant farm can Traditional Indigenous make sure that younger gen- the seeds for the future. workers to participate. Food Systems and opening erations have them for gen- “Through seed work and a not-for-profit restaurant erations to come.” PAGE 16 Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune Tsistsistas & Hinonoei OBITUARIES Calendar Memorial Dance for Mary Belle Curtis-Lonebear Edwina Mae Bull Shelly Del Cantu June 1, 2019 at the Clinton Community Center in Clinton, to Indian dances, Cheyenne Shelly Del Cantu was Okla. Paint ceremony at 10 a.m., supper at 5 p.m. with dance and Arapaho elder activi- born Sept.2, 1983 to Roberto to follow. MC Eddie Wilson, HMD Nathan Howling Crane, HLD ties, and always looked for- John Cantu and Jusdine Del Karen Little Coyote, HLBD Trevor Harrison, HLGD Nizhay- ward to going with Quoint (Horn) Cantu in Lawton, la French, Honored Family Max & Doreen Watan Jr. Family, on roadtrips. She was also Okl., and passed away May Honored Flag Toby Good Blanket, Co-Host Cheyenne and a proud descendant of Chief 19, 2019 in Oklahoma City. Arapaho American Legion Post 401 and ADs Mary Belle’s Black Kettle. Shelly was raised in the Grandsons. In addition to her parents, Sentinel, Burns Flat and Edward and Elizabeth, Ed- For more information contact Kimberly Lonebear at 580- Mangum area and attend- 275-9222. wina was preceded in death ed school in Burns Flat- by her companion, Lucio Dill City. She was a stay Birthday - Honor Dance for McKenna Beth Lime Romero; two sons, Paul at home mom for several Gonzales Jr. and Mitchell Saturday, June 1, 2019 at the Custer County Fairgrounds, years and then she traveled 1749 US Hwy. 183 in Clinton, Okla. Dinner at 5:30 p.m. with Edwina Mae Bull, of Ray Gonzales; three sisters, with a carnival and operated ah, William, Landon, Laiten, Virginia Flores, Mary Belle dance to follow. Oklahoma City, passed from rides. She was a free-spirit Costner, Jade and Carmen; Contreras, and Frances Gar- MC Gerald Panana, HS Creg Hart, HLD Carrie Lehi, this life on May 22, 2019 always looking for some- sister, Brenda Largent and cia; and a brother Merlin HMD Jason Goodblanket, Honored Elder Margie Pewo, Co- at the age of 71. She was thing and loved traveling. husband, Jeffrey, Mid- Bull, and granddaughter Host Red Moon Gourd Clan, Honored Veteran Trevor Aqui- born to Edward John Bull She was preceded in west City, two brothers, Graciela Uribe. lar, ADs Kyle and Gary Jr. Lime & Jake Reynolds, McKen- and Elizabeth (Black) Bull death by her father. Robert Horn and wife, She is survived by her na’s brothers. For more information contact Angie Lime at in Clinton, Okla., on April Vanessa, Oklahoma City daughters Alisa Gay Gon- She was a member of the 580-309-4165 or Gary Lime at 580-445-9082. 14, 1948. She grew up in Living Waters Church in and Bruce Cantu, Atoka. the Seiling area and attended zales-Chavez of Woodward, Burns Flat; she loved brows- She is survived by her part- Northern Arapaho Sundance Sponsor Dance for Seiling Public Schools and Yolanda Marie Gonza- ing and posting her face ner, Daniel Marshall, Okla- Robert Blackburn was baptized at the Men- les-Uribe of Oklahoma City; page on the internet; she was homa City and numerous 5 p.m. Saturday, June 1, 2019 at the Geary Community nonite Church of Seiling. a brother Ervin Bull and wife notorious for helping those nieces and nephews. Center in Geary, Okla. Sponsored by Fred & Mary Mosque- She married Paul Gonzales Bernice of Clinton; three sis- less fortunate and helping Funeral Services were da, 405-517-7605. Sr. in 1965 at the Menno- ters, Diane Cassio and hus- the helpless and homeless. held May, 24, 2019 in the MC Alan Fletcher, HS Emmitt Redbird, HMD Murray nite Church in Seiling, and band Rafael of Woodward, She is survived by her fos- Kiesau Memorial Chapel Medicine Bird, HLD Lisa Pena, ADs Shawnee girls, Helene to this union four children Minnie Tapia of Sharon, and officiated by Rev. Garry and Loleta, Honored Elder Joyce Martinez. were born, Paul Jr., Alisa, Darlene Love of Elk City; ter parents, Garry and Terri Ledbetter and under the di- Mitchell and Yolanda.In two aunties, Norma Smith Ledbetter, Burns Flat, Okla., rection of the Kiesau-Lee CHR Health Screening & Blood Drive 1983, she met the love of and Rita Black; 13 grandchil- mother, Jusdine Cantu, Clin- dren, and 29 great grandchil- ton; seven children, Jeremi- Funeral Home. Health screening 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. June 5, 2019 at the her life Lucio Romero, and Concho Community Center in Concho, Okla. Blood drive the couple moved to Okla- dren as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives and from 12-4 p.m. at the same location. For more information homa City. Lucio preceded call 405-422-7670. her in death after a battle friends. with cancer. She spent her A traditional Chey- Maxine Haag time caring for her family enne-Arapaho wake service Book Club Meeting the band by memory at 12 - 1 p.m. Thursday, June 6, 2019 at the Cheyenne and and was a wonderful house- was held on May 25, 2019 at times. She enjoyed baking Arapaho Tribal Library located in the Dept. of Education wife, mom, grandma, and the Seiling Community Cen- and cooking and loved all building in Concho, Okla. This month’s book is “The Inno- great grandma. She enjoyed ter in Seiling, Okla. of her animals. cent Man” by John Grisham. Light lunch will be provided. playing softball and being Funeral Services were She was preceded in The Book Club meets on the first Thursday of every with her great grandchildren, held May 26 at the Resto- death by her parents; foster month. For more information contact Christine Denny at 405- family get togethers, going ration Church followed by a burial at Brumfield cemetery. father, Dean Schantz; two 422-7638. sisters, Marian Birdshead and Vivian Osage. Red Earth Festival Darwina Lynn Clark Maxine is survived by June 7-9, 2019 at the Cox Convention Center in Oklahoma Darwina was preceded in sisters, Ruthie Russell and City. Opening parade is 10 a.m. Saturday, June 8. For more death by her maternal grand- husband, Matthew, of E information visit www.RedEarth.org. parents, Joseph “Jess” Birds- Reno, Christine Williams Maxine Haag was born head and Rose Tallbear-Bird- of Canton, Janice Osage Barefoot Powwow Benefit Dance shead; paternal grandparents Oct. 7, 1955 at Clinton to of Weatherford and Lea June 8, 2019 at the Watonga Community Center in Waton- Maurice “Funny” Lime Jr. Mack Haag and Jenny Lit- Schrantz of El Reno; foster ga, Okla. Gourd dance at 3 p.m., supper 5 p.m. and dance to and Yolanda “Tillie” Faye tleraven Haag. She depart- sisters, Debbie and Tony follow. Green-Lime. ed this life and started her Hooper; foster brothers, MC Burl Buffalomeat, HS Roger Davis, HLD Holly Long She is survived by her new journey on May 18, Merlan and Steven Schantz Warrior, HMD Roy Dean Bullcoming, HLGD Happy Short- parents, Derwin Lime of 2019. and Franklin Williams of man, HLBD Ephraim Little Creek, Honored Family Pendle- El Reno, Okla., and Myrlie She grew up in Canton El Reno; step-son, Roman ton/Whiteshield families and AD Cayden Brown. Hawk of Kingfisher, Okla., and graduated from Hydro Birdshead and her husband, Vendors welcomed with a raffle donation. For more infor- two daughters, Lynsie Clark High School. During her Wesley Oldbear, many mation call 405-687-1165 or 405-626-1718. Darwina Lynn Clark of Kingfisher and Anola Old- school years, she played nieces, nephews and grand- was born on July 22, 1974 bear of Clinton; two sons, the piano and guitar. She children. North American Indian Women’s Association at Oklahoma City to Der- Noah Clark of Kingfisher and also played the flute in 49th annual Conference win and Myrlie (Birdshead) Sterling “Theok” Oldbear of June 10-12, 2019 at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites, Lime. She departed this life Clinton; two sisters, Desire 2500 Conference Drive in Norman, Okla. May 8, 2019 near Hydro, Horse of Kingfisher and 6-7 p.m. Sunday June 9, registration and reception. Mon- Okla. Delanie Lime of El Reno; Elmer Charles Surveyor Jr. day June 10 at 9:30 a.m. keynote address by Dr. Henrietta She was raised at the one brother, Domnic Lime Mann. For hotel reservations contact the Holiday Inn Express Birdshead place south of of Clinton; three grandchil- Elmer Charles Surveyor & Suites at 405-928-5300. Carlton, Okla., and graduat- dren, Leandra Willis, Isaac Jr. was born June 26, 1950 ed from Canton High School Willis and Elena Smith and at Clinton, Okla., to El- Tribal Constitutional Training: A Basic Approach numerous extended family with the class of 1992. After mer Charles and Elizabeth to Understanding the Constitution and friends. graduating, she met and mar- (Lime) Surveyor. He de- 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., June 11-12, 2019 at the Concho Com- Wake services were held munity Center in Concho, Okla. For more information call ried Millard Clark Sr., and parted this life on May 12, to this union two children May 12, 2019 at the Canton 405-422-7755 or email [email protected]. Native American Gymnasi- 2019 in Oklahoma City. were born, Lynsie Michelle Charles attended school Clark and Noah J.Clark. She um. Funeral services were Community Health Representative (CHR) Car held May 13, 2019 at the at Longdale, Okla., and later had two children with served his country in the Seat Event Chester Oldbear, Anola Old- Canton School’s Multi-Pur- 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. June 12, 2019 at the Old Clinton Hospital U.S. Army. He served as bear and Sterling “Theok” pose Building with Reverend in Clinton, Okla. For more information call 405-422-7670. the Cheyenne and Arapa- Oldbear. Darwina loved the Waylon Upchego officiating. ho Tribes Tribal Chairman Circle of Dance. She often Interment followed in the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women’s Canton Reinterment Cem- from 1994 to 1998. Charles Leto Blackhorse and Linda danced with her tradition- Rhoads; twelve grandchil- March etery under the direction of also served as the town 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. June 14, 2019 at the Concho Community al sister Ricque Richard- dren, Tia Surveyor, Tirador son and grandmother Marie Pierce Funeral Home, Can- Mayor of Canton. Center in Concho, Okla. The Domestic Violence Program and Pratt, Ryan Charles Sur- Whiteman. ton. Charles was preced- Social Services Program are hosting a MMIW March to raise ed in death by his parents; veyor, Staci Michelle Pratt, awareness to end this epidemic. We are inviting photo/name grandparents Felix Roman Shawn Elizabeth Phyllis submissions to honor mothers, daughters, and sisters who Jose Rodriquez Perez Jr. Nose Surveyor and Maude Surveyor, Jana Colleen have gone missing or have been murdered to be displayed on Jose Rodriquez Perez Jr., Walkingwoman Surveyor Pratt, Theresa Nicole Sur- a slide show during the event. was born May 15, 1968. and Maurice Lime Sr. and veyor, Jessica Webster, Suni To submit photos contact Miranda Muehl at 405-422-7592 Meat, Torre Meat, Megan He passed away on Lucinda Scabbyhorse Lime. or email [email protected]. For more information about He is survived by his Guy and Mary Guy; many the event contact Wilma Big Medicine at 405-295-1670. May 10, 2019. nieces, nephews, extended A traditional all night wife Renee Meat of the home; three daughters, family and friends. Northern Arapaho Sundance Sponsor Dance for wake service was held May An all-night traditional 14, 2019 at the Concho Com- Eugenia Surveyor, Janita Carlos Chavez wake service was held May 5 p.m. June 15, 2019 at the Geary Community Center in munity Center in Concho, Jones and Dawn Meat of 15, 2019 at the Canton Na- Geary, Okla. Dance sponsored by Fred & Mary Mosqueda, Okla. Canton; one son, Sean Meat of Canton; brothers Jerry tive American Gymnasium 405-517-7605. Funeral services were MC Alan Fletcher, HS Emmitt Redbird, HMD John Can- Surveyor and wife Cordell in Canton, Okla. Funeral held May 15 at the Concho non, HLD Bobbi White Thunder, AD Nathan Buller and of Albuquerque, N.M., Har- services were held May 16, Community Center, fol- Honored Elder Ava Whitetail. lowed by an Interment at vey DeWayne Surveyor and 2019 at the Canton School the Concho Indian Cemetery wife Cheyenne of Canton, Multi-Purpose Building under the direction of Huber Okla., and Orville White- with Coach Rob Davis and Community Health Representative (CHR) Car Benson Funeral Home. Reverend George Akeen Seat Event skunk of Hammon, Okla., 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. June 18, 2019 at the Geary Community sisters Elizabeth Scrog- Jr. officiating. Interment followed in Canton Ceme- Center in Geary, Okla. For more information call 405-422- gins and husband Sam of 7670. Hugo, Okla., Norma Jones tery under the direction of of Broken Bow, Okla., Pierce Funeral Home. Tsistsistas & Hinonoei Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune PAGE 17

Merlin’s certificate for participating in the Duke University TIP program and A-honor roll. Congrats to Merlin Big Medicine 7th grade A-honor roll and Duke university TIP. Keep up the good work, Love mom, grandma Merle and Johnnie, Jean, and Winslow Big medicine and family. Congratulations Courtney Happy Birthday Bobby Joe Congratulations to Happy 16th Birthday to Tapaha on earning your Lamebull Raelyn (4) and Tahlo Leniya Cheyenne Reed our Marcus Lee, bachelor’s degree from the May 4, 1957 (3) who graduated graduated from middle school we love you! University of New Mexico. A three-sport letterman at Head Start. They will in Jefferson City, Tenn. on May mom and dad We are so proud of you and Del City High School from be entering Pre-K next 24, 2019. She was awarded your accomplishments. We 1973 to 1975, a wrestler year. a certificate in excellence wish you all the best on at 178 and heavy weight, We love you both to the for her art ability. Leniya has your future endeavors. a discuss and shot-putter moon and back been interested in art since Love, your Tapaha and in track, a tackle on The Gray family elementary school. She has Nightwalker/Walking Night offense and defense, nose never had any formal training family guard and defensive end, in art. The art she does she has and a graduate from learned on her own. She was Oklahoma State Tech chosen from many art students at Okmulgee, Okla., in Happy 1st Birthday to draw a poster for the school 1977. Happy 62 years River Rose! musical play. She loves to go to old from a host of cousins I love watching you grow musical plays at various theaters around East Tennessee. and friends. and I love being your She has been a former cheerleader with a local cheering squad mommy. You’ve brought so and her team received several awards in the years she was with much joy into my life since them. At a very young age she was involved in modeling with the day you were born. Keep a local modeling agency. She loves to go shopping at malls blooming my little one. and antique stores with her friends. She is very kind, loving, Love, mom, memaw, quacks generous and has a very big heart. She is so caring as shown and the family. when she found a broken winged ladybug (Timmy) at school, she nursed it all day and took care of it at home until its demise. She has enjoyed going to Oklahoma and New Mexico several Congrats to Merlin times where she learns about her heritage as a citizen of the Clifton Fletcher! Cheyenne Arapaho Tribes. We try to take her out west during Merlin is a 13 year old powwows where her extended family guides and teaches 7th grader at Etta Dale her in her culture. Her grandmother Rose Fanman lives in and upon taking his Weatherford with her family. The rest of her extended family SAT’s is enrolled with is Linda (Fanman) Jensen and husband Walter who reside in Duke University. Merlin Santa Fe, N.M. with family, Lorraine Fanman wife of the late maintains a GPA of David (Beans) Fanman, brother Carlos Gloria and family which April: “Optimistic” 4.0 at school and is reside in Ft. Defiance Ariz., the family of the late Janice Faye (Left to Right) very involved with Fanman who reside in Phoenix, Ariz., and Tracey Sharp who Back Row: William Whitlow (8th Grade), Tony his cultural side. As a also resides in Phoenix with family. Nightwalker (6th Grade), Tushka Adair (3rd Grade), straight dancer, Marlin Leniya is excited and looking forward to going to high school in Abbigayle Blackbear (4th Grade), has won numerous the fall. She has signed up for the science club. She is looking John Sandoval (5th Grade) times at powwows. forward to drama club and perfecting her art during high Front Row: Khloe Knoxsah (1st Grade), Lakota I’m very proud and always encouraging him, school. Eventually she is looking forward to being a cartoonist Stewart (Pre-K), Beckett VanGundy (Pre-K), Leelo he’s always on the computer constantly, I animator after graduation and college. We are so proud of her Sandoval (Kindergqrten), want him to go as far as he can. I get a lot of achievements and looking forward to the young woman that she Cheyenne Harrison (7th Grade) words of encourage from his Uncle Cornell is becoming. Not Pictured: Pauline Black-Harmon (7th Grade) Sankey and Merlin Littlethunder, his other uncle. Merlin’s mother is Wilma Bidmedicine and his grandmother is Merle Bigmedicine Lopez.

May: “Responsible” (Left to Right) Back Row: Adriana Martinez-Halfred (5th Grade), Tori Hollis (8th Grade), Xavier Elledge (6th Grade), Rural Honor Society William Elledge (7th Grade), Livia Darlington School Fourhorns (4th Grade) (Left to Right) Front Row: Jacelyn Aguina (3rd Grade), Bailey Tina Ortiz (7th Grade), Julia Woolworth (8th Grade), Bomhak (1st Grade), Maribele Baxcajay (Pre-K0, Wicahpi Cook (8th Grade), Taurino Baxcajay (2nd Grade), Tori Hollis (8th Grade), Angel Guzman (8th Grade), Sienna Sleeper (Pre-K) Nazhoni Sleeper (7th Grade), Not Pictured: Glory Gray (Kindergarten) William Elledge (7th Grade)

The 2019 State of Oklahoma Handgame tournament was held Saturday May 18, 2019 at the Clinton Community Center in Clinton, Okla. Twelve teams from around the state competed in a high stakes handgame tournament with prizes ranging from $300 to $4,000. The top five teams were: 5th Place-$300 Oklahoma Indians (C&A Team) 4th Place-$700 Magic (C&A Team) 3rd Place-$1000 Challengers (C&A Team) 2nd Place-$2000 Carnegie Dah (Kiowa Team) 1st Place-$4000 2019 State Handgame Champions DUBTOWN (C&A Team) Awards and prizes were also given for best guesser, best hider, best dressed team and best banner. Those winners were as follows: Best Guesser-$300 Joe Fish Dupoint (Carnegie Dah) Best Hider (3way tie)-$50 each James “Buddha” Birdshead (DUBTOWN) Clifton Sankey (DUBTOWN) Carol Taylor (Carnegie Dah) Best Banner-$100 Camp 7 (Comanche Team) Best Dressed Team-$250 North Spur Heights (Kiowa Team) PAGE 18 Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune Tsistsistas & Hinonoei CLASSIFIEDS VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENTS LEGALS To apply please submit a tribal application, resume, diploma(s), transcripts, valid copy of driver’s license and a copy of CDIB (if applicable) to the Personnel Department, PO Box 38, NOTICE BY PUBLICATION Concho, OK 73022 or call 405-422-7498 or email [email protected]. Foreman/Field Supervisor Asset Manager Road Maintenance Program Fleet Management Program Closing: Until Filled Closing: Until filled Qualifications: Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in asset management, grant manage- Completion from an accredited secretarial school and/or ment, professional or civil engineering or heavy equipment clerical course/program with a minimum of two years experi- operator’s certification preferred. However associates degree ence in clerical, secretary or receptionist work or equivalent. with minimum two year’s experience as a road maintenance Minimum education requirement is high school diploma or field supervisor and/or road construction foreman acceptable. G.E.D. certification. Must be willing and able to attend vari- High school diploma or G.E.D. certification required. Must ous training and/or certification programs as directly related have an acceptable driving record and provide a current Mo- to job duties and responsibilities. Applicant must provide a tor Vehicle Report from the Oklahoma State Dept. of Public Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) from the Oklahoma Dept. of Safety and possess a current Oklahoma driver’s license. Must Public Safety. Must possess a current Oklahoma state driver’s pass a pre-hire drug and alcohol screen/test to adhere to the license. Must pass pre-hire drug and alcohol screening. established Drug-Free Workplace Act. Cheyenne and Arapa- SALARY: Negotiable ho preference. SALARY: Negotiable Human Resource Generalist Dept. of Housing Adult Education (PT) Closing Date: Until filled 3 Counselors Canton/Watonga, Clinton and Concho Qualifications: Closing Date: Until filled Bachelor’s degree in business, human resources or related field preferred. Five or more years of progressively indepen- Qualifications: dent professional work in human resources. A combination Bachelor’s degree in education or related field preferred of education and experience may be substituted for degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience, requirement. Computer skills. Prefer a professional Human substituting one year of experience in teaching for each year Resource certification. Must pass drug and alcohol testing, of required education. Must possess a current Oklahoma must pass a background check. Cheyenne and Arapaho pref- driver’s license including having a clean driving record for erence. SALARY: Negotiable insurance purposes. Ability to pass OSBI background check. Must be able to work flexible hours including weekends and holidays, not to exceed 29 hours/week. Must be willing to travel and perform other duties as assigned by director. Chey- enne and Arapaho preference. SALARY: Negotiable

Houseparent ShelterPart-time & On-Call Emergency Youth Do you like children of all ages? Do you like attend- ing outings with kiddos to show them a great time? White water? Zoo days? Frontier City? Science Museum? Educa- tional outings?? Come and join us! We are looking to hire part time/on- call workers with clean backgrounds to work as a House- parents’ for the C&A youth shelter. $12.00 hourly. Shifts are 5PM-12AM daily, 12AM-8AM daily, and 8AM-5PM weekends. Job is located in Concho,Ok. MUST HAVE DRIVERS LICENSE AND BE ABLE TO PASS A BACKGROUND CHECK. High School Diploma or GED, with preference given to post secondary training in the following related fields: Child Development, Nutrition, Culinary Arts, and Psychology. One year’s experience working in situations related to children. Must be able and willing to work al- ternating shifts on weekends, nights and holidays. Must retain a valid Oklahoma Driver’s License and have a clean driving record. Must pass criminal record check. Must have a telephone or cell phone at place of residence. Three (3) current letters of reference required. Current TB skin test or chest x-ray and pass complete physical examination. PUBLIC NOTICE Cheyenne and Arapaho June 17, 2019. Please use Department of Housing Waiting List Report Department of Transporta- caution when entering and Mutual Help Program tion (CADOT) has started exiting the Project Site in The following applicants need to complete a 2019 the Clinton Indian Baptist Clinton, OK and adhere to UPDATE FORM by May 31, 2019. Church Parking Lot Project. construction and traffic con- If an update form is not received by this date, they The Project Scope of trol signs. CADOT advises will be removed from the Mutual-Help waiting list for work includes improving the public to stay out of the FAILURE TO UPDATE-NO EXCEPTIONS! the existing condition of the areas cordoned off with cau- For questions or more information please contact parking lot by constructing tion tape and safety cones. Eileen Salcido at 580-331-2400. 16,500 square-feet concrete Questions pertaining to this parking lot and installing project can be addressed to Sheri Spottedcorn stop signs. the CADOT at 1-800-247- Feather Hawk The construction is ex- 4612, Extension #27432 or Charles Sweezy pected to be completed by (405)-422-7432. Janess Lime Tsistsistas & Hinonoei Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune PAGE 19

continuedA TRIBUTE from pg. 6 SONG Archie Hoffman nev- government succeeded in er stopped advancing the court when it asserted an in- rights of his people. Just a terpretation that the Tribes few weeks before his death had missed a 12-year stat- in 2012, he appeared before ute of, the clock for which a federal commission. He had begun to run in 1948, was still dreaming, and still according to the bureau- believing, that one day the crats, and had thus lost their Cheyenne & Arapaho would chance to get the area back gain justice from the United under Native control. States. As decades passed, the After the Controversy ARS facility developed a For his part, Surveyor small but apparently pow- continued to work on prac- erful constituency. Its name tical, methodical steps to changed a few times. And, improve life for members important to remember: of the Two Tribes. He ap- Early in the present century, proved and developed newer the land at Fort Reno was forms of gaming (electronic included in Farm Bill stric- bingo and blackjack, for ex- tures aiming to stretching ample) that improved the out the ban on designation margin and helped make the as surplus lands for years at Lucky Star Casino viable for a time. This process has con- many years. But as the U.S. tinued to the present day. Department of the Interior Tipping the hand of some remained closely linked to in this historical drama, larger tribal entities, the Big in 2005-06, attempts were Guys got reaped most of made to pull mineral rights the benefits in what is now (oil, natural gas, etc.) out of Former U.S. President Bill Clinton, left, and Charles Surveyor, were participants in a White House meeting where, a $4.2 billion industry. De- the Reno reservation while Surveyor said, the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes of Oklahoma thought they had gained a pledge tribal lands at Ft. Reno spite the hopes of Hoffman opening it for developmen. would be restored to their control. (White House Photo) and Surveyor, members of The Tribes and allies the Oklahoma congressional successfully opposed these and will protect the precious Native American Gynasium. delegation – this includes efforts, but the battle contin- historic and cultural resourc- The funeral service elected officials in both po- ued.In recent years, congres- es of the land. These initia- came at 1 p.m. in the Can- litical parties – have for the sional and other maneuvers tives include preservation ton School Multi-Purpose most part over the last three have continued to keep the of the existing military fa- Building with Coach Rob decades sustained the long Fort Reno lands from enter- cilities, energy development Davis and Reverend George march away from those ing the legal status needed and partnerships to continue Akeen, Jr. officiating. Nineteenth Century execu- to give final meaning and local research.” When mourners moved tive orders. resonance to the Nineteenth Some, including this to the cemetery, where Legislation has at various Century accords and the writer, hoped Obama would blended traditions complet- times forbade the land’s des- presidential decisions of revisit the issue during his ed his honors. ignation as “surplus” federal Grant and Arthur. swing through the state that “Taps” was played as property subject to resto- In 2014, reporter David summer, laying the basis for veterans and others saluted. ration for the Tribes. Presi- Rogers of wrote about a the land to revert to those A mournful drum song was dent Clinton, weakened by joust touching Fort Reno’s who still are its proper own- sung. various scandals, never seri- status in that year’s farm er.However, that trip came American flags snapped ously pursued the promised bill: “Call it Cheyenne Au- and went without any offi- in the breeze near his coffin. return of the lands during tumn II: a century-old lands cial action, or even a quiet Two men (one in “camos”) his second term despite the fight and modern political meeting with tribal activists. foldedthe U.S. flag into the finding the Tribe had been remake of the Western clas- As was the case for his triangle familiar to the chil- mistreated for decadeAs the sic that began here as well as friend Archie, who was gone dren of veterans, then gave it years had passed, an Agri- at Fort Reno, an old cavalry ahead by then, Charles nev- to the family. culture Research Service post in the Native American er gave up hope, and neither The western Oklahoma (ARS) facility was devel- territory of Oklahoma.In should any of us. Surveyor wind blew across the ancient oped on the Fort Reno lands. 2015, Traditional Arapaho lived a long and produc- lands of the Cheyenne and (This reporter sketched that Chief Patrick Spottedwolf, tive life, including a stint Arapaho tribes that day, as it story, and the OU Baboon also a member of the C&A as mayor of Canton, and does most of the time. Pictured here is Archie Hoffman, who died in 2012. He Research facility that was Legislature, wrote to Presi- remained involved in tribal At the end of a long, was a friend and ally of Charles Surveyor, who died this in in the news, in a couple dent Barack Obama: and local affair. unusually wet and some- month. Both men are remembered for their impassioned of reports earlier in this de- “The Tribes have wait- Elmer Charles “Dev- times-cool spring, it was fight to secure the return of Cheyenne and Arapaho lands cade.). ed for the return of the Ft. il” Surveyor, Jr., born June both windy and warm as in western Oklahoma. Hoffman and Surveyor based their Although the facility was Reno land for more than a 26, 1950 at Clinton, died in they lowered the earthly re- hopes on a White House meeting with former President declared “redundant, outdat- century, without receiving Oklahoma City on May 12, mains of Charles Surveyor Bill Clinton, but the land never was restored. (Photo by ed and duplicative,” and was any compensation or ceding at the age of 68. His wife into the ground. Stacy Leads) the subject of still-legendary their claim for it. The feder- Renee and four children sur- Those of us who admired ture it falls on us, the living, the Cheyenne and Arap- ABC News “Your Mon- al government, which is still vive him, as do brothers, sis- and respected Surveyor will to keep those promises. aho Tribes of Oklahoma ey” segment in December holding the land for its own ters, grandchildren, cousins remember him, and his old NOTE: A member of the and their struggle to regain 1995, it clung to existencIn purposes, has yet to fulfill and a lifetime of friends. warrior comrade Archie Oklahoma Journalism Hall the land at and around old 1999, at the time of the fa- its promise“I can assure you For final rites, communal Hoffman. of Fame, McGuigan is Pub- Ft. Reno previously won mous Leshy Memo, DOI that, upon receipt of the land, remembrances and burial, Their dreams of justice lisher and Editor of The City first place designation from (Department of the Interi- my people will participate in his body went home. Over- and restitution, in the simple Sentinel newspaper. He has the Society of Professional or) recognized tribal claims and actively support devel- night on May 15 and 16, form of promises fulfilled, written frequently on issues Journalists (Oklahoma Pro to the land as “credible and opment initiatives as long as the people held a traditional will remain. To enliven and in Indian County, and on Chapter) in the Diversity equitable, if not judicially they can be conducted in an all-night wake in the Canton sustain hopes for a better fu- legal policy. His reports on Reporting category. cognizable.” However, the environmentally sound way

continued2020 from CENSUS pg. 6 eas. Many may not like or responses are confidential the Cheyenne and Arapaho the number of youth who are encouraging tribal response will be on a different website trust the government and as and cannot be used for any Tribes? impacted. The $675 billion to ensure the most accurate from that of office clerks, a result are less likely to par- other purpose than the cen- Make sure an adult tribal allocated by the federal gov- counts. enumerators, recruiting as- ticipate in the census count. sus. Regardless if a house- member in your household ernment helps support tribes Basic Requirements: sistants, and field supervi- American Indian households hold has more individuals completes the 2020 Census with their Native American 18 years old sors. are often multi-generational living under the same roof for the whole family. If a trib- Housing Block Grant, Food Valid Social Security The first large field opera- and may be in violation of than it is supposed to, an al member takes charge of Distribution Program on In- Number tions will start the summer of local housing rules that lim- honest report to the Census completing the census ques- dian Reservations (FDPIR), U.S. Citizen 2019 and various operations it the number of individuals cannot be reported to, shared tionnaire and lists himself/ Temporary Assistance for Access to a Car continue through the summer which may reside in a hous- with or otherwise discussed herself as Native American, Needy Families (TANF), Must pass Background of 2020. Individuals can ap- ing unit. As a result, they with a housing authority, law then the entire family gets Tribal Transportation, Check ply at any time to non-man- feel the need to misrepresent enforcement, immigration counted as Native American. Roads, Health Care, Edu- What to Expect When agement positions by visiting the actual number present in officials or any other indi- Additionally, when com- cation, Tribal Justice, and Applying for a 2020 Census www.2020census.gov/jobs order to avoid losing their viduals. Your responses are pleting the 2020 Census, if Public Safety. These are just Job: or by calling 1-855-JOB- access to housing. Unfortu- confidential and protected by a tribal member specifies a few of the tribal program Application process will 2020. nately, when several house- Law. membership in the Cheyenne areas that tribal governments be ONLINE. Key 2020 Census Dates: holds in an area fictitiously $675 Billion up for grabs and Arapaho Tribe, then our and tribal citizens depend An online assessment is June-August 2019: Area respond to the census with Census data determines tribe gets credit for your on from federal funding part of the application pro- Census Offices open; recruit- lower number of individuals how $675 billion of federal membership. requested on an annual ba- cess & will be in both En- ing of Tribal Census workers in their households than ac- funding is distributed, which What does this mean for sis from census population glish & Spanish. begins. tually reside there, it results communities need attention the Cheyenne and Arapaho numbers. By completing Must have an email ad- Early 2020: Group Quar- in a lower overall count for and resources from the gov- Tribes? the 2020 Census as a Native dress – you can create a free ters Enumeration starts. a given area. Add to this that ernment and private sectors, With increased numbers American family within the gmail account or another of Early March 2020: Ques- these same American Indi- and everything in between of people registering as Na- Cheyenne and Arapaho area, your choice. tionnaires hand-delivered. an communities often have for schools, housing, Indian tive Americans and members we can improve the health, There is time between March 23, 2020 – July 24, greater numbers of individ- Health Service and business of the Cheyenne and Arapaho education and well-being application & actual hiring – 2020: Self-Response starts. uals below the poverty line investments. Tribes on the next census, the of all tribal members in the this can be months until op- April 1, 2020: CENSUS than non-American Indian Federal dollars coming federal government provides Great State of Oklahoma. erations start. DAY majority communities. The back to the States are based more funding for programs Your tribe needs your input! A background check with Early May 2020: Non-Re- community is provided less on population. in our area. More money Census Bureau is recruit- fingerprints is required once sponse Follow-Up starts. resources for infrastructure For Oklahoma, that aver- means better health facilities ing Tribal Census Workers selected for employment. August 2020: Data collec- such as roads and schools ages about $1600 Per Person and services. When the tribe The Census Bureau is re- All Census positions will tion complete. than the same sized commu- for the next 10 years. applies for grants to improve cruiting and hiring tribal cit- require employees to use December 31, 2020: nity in which all residents What’s an effective and education or youth services, izens to manage and conduct Census provided devices. Counts delivered to Presi- are properly counted. Your easy way that you can help they use census data to report field operations as well as Office management jobs dent of United States. PAGE 20 Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune Tsistsistas & Hinonoei