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Oct. 1, 2017 -Volume 13, Issue 19
C&A Water Plant operator nominated for 2017 Operator of the Year award In a world that is 70 percent full of water, many can agree that water is consumed daily in one form or another. On a dayto-day basis, hundreds of people within the Cheyenne and Arapaho community, including Lucky Star Casino and the Travel Center, use the water supplied within the area of Concho, Okla. However, very few know the works behind the clean and safe drinking water that is supplied. Kevin Eason, water plant operator for the Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes, can tell you all about how the water plant works in the Concho area. Eason, who has worked for the Concho Water Plant for over four years, was nominated for the 2017 Inter Tribal Council of Arizona (ITCA) Tribal Water/Wastewater Operator of the Year Award. The award serves to recognize a water operator for all their hard work and dedication. “The men and women who operate the drinking water/ wastewater systems in anybody’s society have one of the most important critical jobs. They’re the ones responsible for making sure that there’s safe drinking water coming out of the tap that are being handled properly so they’re on the frontlines of protecting the public health and it’s so often that they don’t get recognized,” Brian Bennon, ITCA tribal water director said. According to ITCA, water operators have a vital role in the public health of communities. “There’s nothing that can really happen on a reservation without the proper infrastructure and certainly having safe and clean drinking water is a big part of that. You wouldn’t be able Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribes’ water plant operator Kevin Eato build a hotel or have guests in your restaurants, so we really see this as a fundamental basis of economic development and son, has spent the majority of his life making sure the water you public health, we’re hoping this recognition brings new upcom- drink is safe. It’s more than just a job for him ... it’s a mission. ing career oriented young people that would like to see this as (Photos / Latoya Lonelodge) a vital career for the future,” Maria Dadgar, ITCA executive “We come in in the morning, we first inspect the water plant director said. to see if it’s running, see if there’s any alarms on the panel, we For years, Eason has learned the in and outs of how a water go through the chemicals, check everything there and then we plant works. Beginning his experience at the Minco Water Plant start doing lab work,” Eason said. before transitioning to the Concho Water Plant, Eason has made Through the process of filtering, testing and treating the wahis job at the water plant more like a home to him. ter, Eason assures the water is safe and drinkable. “My kids laugh and say I have no family and I need to go “A big thing is to get the people to trust that the water is home. My daughter the other day asked me, ‘dad what’s your good. Everybody’s family tells them don’t drink the water and address’ and I gave her the address to work. She said, ‘no that’s they pass that down generation to generation. We just need to where you work.’ I said, “Hun, that’s where I live too,’” Eason have a party and have everyone drink the water and try it, it’s said. good water, it’s been good water,” Eason said. Eason said he enjoys his job, The nominees of the 2017 Operator of the Year Award were “They call us public health officials and I think that means announced during a ceremony at the Tribal Water and Wastea lot. We take care of the water for thousands of people daily water Operator Group Meeting on Sept. 20 in Chandler, Ariz. and that’s water through the casino, the travel center and then Eason received fifth place. the people who all live here. I think it’s a big responsibility,” “The overall goal is to really honor them for their hard work Eason said. that they do and also to put a spotlight on their role in society Along with the responsibilities of being a water plant opera- for the tribal communities so the public and decision makers tor, it is also very time consuming. will be aware of the important work that they do tirelessly and “People think that you just put in 40 hours a week, there’s constantly, always providing safe drinking water and safe sanilots of times that I’m here seven days a week,” Eason said. tation services,” Bennon said. While water plays a vital role in the lives of all in order to For more information on the Inter Tribal Council of Arizona survive and stay healthy, the major key to maintaining clean go to itcaonline.com. water lies within the role of the water operator.
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US POSTAGE PAID OKLA CITY, OK PERMIT NO. 823
els, both sides have negatively impacted Native Nations. As such, this committee intends to be a voice. A strong voice.” Each candidate was given two minutes to give an introduction of his or her campaign platform. Then two minutes to answer one randomly chosen question and two minutes to present a closing statement. The full list of randomly picked questions included: Cheyenne & Arapaho candidates attended an informal question/answer gathering at the Full videos of Concho Community Center hosted by Native American Action, Larenda Morgan on Sept. 21. all the candidates Pictured l-r: Alden Whiteman, Larenda Morgan, Eddie Hamilton, Nicolas Barton, Hershel responses and Gorham, Henrietta Mann, Oklahoma Senator Connie Johnson, Teresa Dorsett, Don Nowlin, campaign visions Funston Whiteman, Chris Derenzo and moderator, Harvey Pratt. (Photo courtesy of Native are available for American Action) viewing by visiting www.youtube. Moderating the event was Har- in 2018. Volunteering at the event com/watch?v=o7ecq1WGPdE&- vey Pratt. Special guest included included staff members of Native feature=youtu.be, or on Facebook, Oklahoma Senator Connie Johnson, America Action Tonya Wolf, Joley www.facebook.com/cheyenne.arap- who has announced plans to run for Singer, Shawn Dae Lawerence and aho.7. the Oklahoma State Governorship Raven Morgan.
Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribal Tribune P.O. Box 38 Concho, OK 73022
(CONCHO-OK) In an informal setting, Cheyenne & Arapaho candidates for governor and lieutenant governor gather Sept. 21 at the Concho Community Center in Concho, Okla., to talk about their campaign platforms, their visions and to answer one question randomly picked from a list of 15 questions. Of the eight governor candidates, four accepted the invitation to attend, Eddie Hamilton, Funston Whiteman, Henrietta Mann and Hershel Gorham. Of the eight lieutenant governor candidates, five candidates accepted the invitation, Nicolas Barton, Chris Derenzo, Alden Whiteman, Teresa Dorsett and Don Nowlin Tribal member Larenda Morgan organized the informal debate. Morgan, is the Director of Candidate Relations / Outreach for Native America Action (NAA) based out of Tulsa, Okla. According to the NAA Website, “Native America Action is neither aligned Democrat or Republican. In the long history of treatment at the hands of the U.S. Government at both the Federal and State lev-
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Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribes Primary election quickly approaching, candidates gather for question/answer session
By Latoya Lonelodge, Staff Reporter
Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune
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Election commission to proceed Tribal Council Coordinator candidates introduction with 2017 elections (CONCHO-OK) After meeting with the Sixth Legislature, BIA Chief of Police/ Concho Agency Bryan Stark and Director of C&A Tribal Security Rocky Ortiz, the Election Commission will proceed with the 2017 primary and general elections. A highlight of the meeting along with other general information is provided below. Absentee ballots There have been two mailings (both of which was explained during the meeting.) The first mailing on Sept. 1, 2017 had a color C&A logo on the outer envelope and was discovered to have an error in the ‘ballot type.’ ‘Ballot type’ is as follows: A1 District ballot type 1, A2 District ballot type 2, A3 District ballot type 3, A4 District ballot type 4,c C1 District ballot type 5, C2 District ballot type 6, C3 District ballot type 7 and C4 District ballot type 8. TrueBallot, Inc. assigns the ‘ballot type’ to the tribes eight districts, which is provided to them by the Election Commission. The error occurred in TrueBallot’s printing department where the order was not consistent with the data that had been stored in the voter management system. The error was quickly identified and TrueBallot immediately released corrected ballots that had a black and white C&A logo on Sept. 6, 2017.
Some tribal members received absentee ballots during this error but all of the above errors have been corrected and should not happen again. After this year’s elections please dispose of incorrect ballots or mail them to PO Box 89 Concho, OK 73022, where they will be stored through the Cheyenne & Arapaho Records Department. If you have not received a ballot then chances are your address on file with the Election Commission is not accurate or may be lacking an element such as apartment number, etc. As we do not utilize the Enrollment Department, Elder Care, and/ or the Percapita address database on voter registrations, it is your responsibility to keep your information updated. Duplication of ballots There were some duplications in the voter management system causing some voters to receive four ballots, (two incorrect and two correct.) The address listings are maintained by the respective district’s Election Commissioner. Any and all corrections, additions and deletions are to be the responsibility of that Election Commissioner. Multiple Votes It doesn’t matter if you send in four ballots (or 100 ballots), any incorrect ones would not register on the balloting machine and only the correct ballots can be
processed once through such balloting machines. There are several defense mechanisms that will be used during the counting process. Spoiled Ballots We will not be using any provisional ballots at any time during any election process. We will not accept any rotten or spoiled ballots. Please take your time and make sure that you are certain of your vote before marking ballot. Please follow all instructions on how to mark your ballots. Polling Sites Each polling site will be open from 7 a.m.-7 p.m. and will consist of one TrueBallot staff member, one Election Commissioner, along with BIA and/or Tribal Security. Please be prepared to sign-in and you must provide your photo issued identification. **Any duly registered voter will be permitted to vote at any Polling Site regardless of what district you are registered to help improve process and encourage everyone to vote. Only those in the voting line at 7 p.m. will be permitted to vote.** Please be patient as we are all in this process together. Any and all Tribal members and voters are welcome to visit each and every polling site but please remain respectful of the election process and other voters. Candidates please remember that you may not campaign at the polling sites.
Transporting Ballots The ballot boxes will be transported from the polling locations at 7 p.m. and the absentee ballots from El Reno Post Office at 3 p.m. will be transported to the Large Conference Room, main Tribal Headquarters in Concho, Okla., and will remain there until the final tally is presented. These ballots will be transferred under the supervision of the BIA at all times. Counting Process Each candidate for any office will be permitted one eyewitness. The Election Commission will be permitted their attorney and two eyewitnesses. TrueBallot, Inc. will be conducting the count as the Election Commission does count any ballots. Once the counting begins, the doors will be locked and remain locked until final tally. Any and all observers will not be permitted to have any cell phones during the counting process. Anyone that causes a disturbance during the counting process will be asked to leave the counting area. Thank you to all who have given the Election Commission words of encouragement, also to those that have been so patient and understanding for the betterment of our Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes. We look forward to seeing you at the Polls on Oct. 3 and Nov. 7, 2017. Good luck to all the candidates.
OCT. 3 PRIMARY ELECTION POLLING SITES POLLS OPEN 7 AM - 7 PM Cheyenne District 1 and Arapaho District 1 Canton Community Center 205/207 N. Jefferson Street Seiling Community Center 411 N. Main Street Watonga Community Center 1000 S. Clarence Nash Blvd., Bldg. B Cheyenne District 2 and Arapaho District 2 Concho Community Center 200 Wolf Robe Cir. Geary Community Center 132 E. Main St. Kingfisher All Nations Church 600 E. Broadway Cheyenne District 3 and Arapaho District 3 Clinton Community Center 2015 Dog Patch Rd. Weatherford SWOSU Oak Room 1121 N. 7th St. Cheyenne District 4 and Arapaho District 4 Elk City Indian Baptist Church 916 W. 7th St. Hammon Community Center 801 Dunn St.
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On Saturday, Oct. 7, 2017, the Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Council will elect its new Tribal Council Coordinator. Individuals who have submitted application for this elected position include Jessie Botone, Melissa
Buffalomeat, Leslie Heredia, Larenda Morgan, Sarah Pedro and Jennifer Plummer. Any candidate for Tribal Council Coordinator was able to submit a bio, photo and platform for publishing.
Greetings, My name is Melissa Pedro Buffalomeat. I am the daughter of Phyllis (Garcia) Naranjo and the late Virgil Pedro Sr. My Cheyenne and Arapaho blood degree is ¾. My maternal grandparents are the late Fannie Webster Smoker and Felix Garcia. My paternal grandparents are William Pedro Jr. & Eileen Penn Pedro. I have three children, Shaylin, Richard and Delanie, and, I also have three granddaughters, Sovay, Winter, Jordana and one more granddaughter on the way. I was born in El Reno, Okla. and raised mainly in El Reno with five of my siblings. My past work experience consists of working for the Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribes in the Department of Enrollment from 1995 - 1997. In 1997 I began working at both the Lucky Star Casino and as a dispatcher for the then Tribal Law Enforcement. I worked for the casino four years, but then decided to move away for several years. I moved back to El Reno in 2009 after my grandmother’s brother asked that I move back to El Reno to help care for him. Shortly after moving back to El Reno, I applied for employment with the tribes. I was then hired through the WIA program working under the Property & Supply program for an eightweek work experience period. After that period ended, I was then picked up as a full-time permanent employee by the Procurement, Grants & Contracts office in the fall of 2009. The Procurement Office is where I was assigned. Keep in mind, although the 2006 Constitution created the Procurement, Grants and Contracts
and began working directly under the Executive Director as well as for our tribal members within the enrollment office. My job duties were to assist with quarterly review and approvals of enrollment applications, assist with address updates for the per-capita distribution, provide current enrollment listings to various programs that assist and serve their participants. I worked as an executive assistant for three Executive Directors. In September 2015, I was temporarily assigned as ‘Acting’ Executive Director for the Department of Enrollment. I maintained working on getting the membership ordinance revised while continuing to assist the tribal programs with various requests as well as working with tribal members until a new executive director was appointed. In February 2016, I was asked to return to the PG&C office but in the capacity as the Director. After much thought and encouragement from my previous supervisors, I accepted the position of PG&C Director. While maintaining both Procurement and Grants & Contracts, I help monitor and oversee 50+ grants and contracts as well as assist and oversee programs with purchases, or bids. I am applying for the position of Tribal Council Coordinator in hopes to bring unity back to our tribes and to represent our Tribal Council in a professional and ethical manner. For the past two years, I’ve read so much negativity and misinformation being placed out there for our tribal members to read, and in turn it has divided our tribes and
Melissa Buffalomeat
office, the procurement office was just being separated from Finance and organized in late 2008 into 2009. My responsibilities were to assist the Procurement Specialist in creating a procurement policy for the tribes, as well as organize this “new” office. Although we worked diligently on the procurement policies, they were never approved at that time. (These policies still have yet to be reviewed and approved by legislative process.) In 2010, the former director of PG&C asked that I work for her in the Grants & Contracts side of the program as her administrative assistant. I accepted the new position and job duties. This new position was interesting to me. Again, keep in mind, this office is fairly new as well, so I dove right in to work on organizing this “new” office. This was where I began reading and learning how tribal government works. I began reading all of the tribes grants and contracts that were awarded to the tribes, I began working on keeping an accurate accounting and inventory of all awards, assisted the PG&C director with monitoring these grants and contracts, assisting programs with budgets for their grants/contracts and helping review applications for new grants and contracts. I also began reading up on federal guidelines and requirements. During this time, I maintained a great working relationship with the various funding agencies. I remained working under the PG&C office until the fall of 2013 when I then decided to apply for an executive assistant position within the Department of Enrollment. I was selected for the position
families. We put our faith in our elected leaders in hopes of the promise of empowerment, unity, loyalty and success. However, seeing posts about our government is all about knocking our tribes down and not helping build us up. My thoughts of the Tribal Council Coordinator are to remain unbiased and be there for ALL of the tribal members. Listen to them without bias and prejudice. The policies and procedures for the Tribal Council Coordinator are simple. Nowhere in the procedures does it state to bring down OUR tribe. But it’s happening. Our tribes are divided as of this date. We need to bring our tribes together again. I believe with my work experience working with tribal programs and tribal members, I can help our people to understand the processes of our tribes and hope to see more positive involvement amongst our tribal members with our tribal government. Although this position will be something I’ve never done before, I’m more than eager to learn. I hope that all branches of government can work together as one and for ALL of OUR Cheyenne and Arapaho people.
Jennifer Plummer My name is Jennifer Plummer and I’m the current Tribal Council Coordinator for the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes. I was elected in October 2015 and I’m asking for your vote at this upcoming Annual Tribal Council meeting. My mother is the late Debra Reed Plummer of Canton, OK. My father is the late George Plummer of Woodward, OK. My maternal grandparents are Ann Addison Reed (Arapaho) and Paul Reed Sr of Canton, OK. My paternal grandparents are Grace Surveyor Plummer (Cheyenne) of Fonda and Bill Plummer of Woodward, OK. I graduated from Woodward High School in 1996. In 2001 I graduated from Southwestern Oklahoma State University with a BA in Marketing and attended graduate school at Southwestern. My focus in business was organizational theory and consumer behavior. My career started when I was hired by the third largest property and casualty insurer in the United States as a liability adjuster. My career then excelled into arbitration, auditing and corporate leadership development. After Hurricane Katrina I joined the Na-
tional Catastrophe Team and was a first responder to natural disasters. I then pursued additional education in my field and obtained an Associates in Insurance Services, an Associates in Claims and obtained a claims law designation from the Society of Claims Law Associates. In 2012 I resigned from my corporate job when my dad went on Hospice and started my own adjusting and estimating contracting company. My services were contracted out by several small insurance carriers to manage their disaster relief adjusters and manage their claim files nationwide for Department of Insurance compliance. In 2004 my business partner and I started a Landscape and Lawn Maintenance company in the OKC metro area and this business has been operational for the last 15 years. After the adoption of my daughter thru our ICW Program in 2013 I became interested in our tribal affairs and I chose to get involved. In 2015 I decided to run for the Tribal Council Coordinator position and was elected. One of the many things I have done since being in this position
Rosemary Stephens, Editor-in-Chief 405-422-7446 / rmstephens@c-a-tribes.org Society of Professional Journalists members
was create a communication infrastructure for our tribal members. I also sought out the Carter Center for Democracy to visit our Tribes and initiated resolutions to be passed at a Special Tribal Council meeting and thru the Legislature. I’ve also held many community meetings to inform the communities of resolutions and give them an opportunity to speak up about their concerns. With new leadership coming in I hope to work with them on developing the Tribal Council Branch where we do have a say in how our government is to be ran. I’ve been working on updating the policy and procedures with tribal members in the communities. I’ve also been working diligently on a RICO lawsuit against those that have been wrongfully harmed by those outside entities influencing the decision making of our tribal leaders. The people’s voices have been heard with me as Tribal Council Coordinator and I’ve done what I can with what I had to work with during my term. We have a lot of things that
go on in our tribal government that no one ever knows about or knew about and I’ve been doing my due diligence to bring to light all the things that have or has happened in our Tribal Government. Working in our tribal government has been a good experience for me and has allowed me to apply my critical thinking and problem solving. I hope to someday I will be able to help solve all our problems in our tribal government where every tribal member will have a fair and equitable distribution of our resources and every tribal members voice could be heard. Please consider re-electing me as your Tribal Council Coordinator.
Cheyenne and Arapaho r i b a l T r i b u n e
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P. O. Box 38, Concho, OK 73022 Fax: 405-422-8204 Oklahoma Press Association member
Latoya Lonelodge, Reporter/Advertising Sales 405-422-7608 / llonelodge@c-a-tribes.org 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 verification, 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. 2010-2017 NATIVE AMERICAN JOURNALIST ASSOCIATION MEDIA AWARD WINNER & 2012-2017 AWARD WINNER OF THE OPA BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST
Friendly fun affair for Elder’s Day Out at Oklahoma State Fair
Cheyenne and Arapaho tribal elders spend the day at the Oklahoma State Fair on Sept. 20. (Photo / Latoya Lonelodge) Every year at the very peak of fall, sky scraping ferris wheels can be seen miles away and fried foods of all kinds are smothering the air with their scent. The one time of the year when the annual Great State Fair of Oklahoma opens its gates, opportunities arise to bring communities, near and far, together. The Cheyenne and Arapaho (C&A) R.E.Sp.E.C.T. program’s (pseudonym for Recreation, Exercise, Sports for the Elders and Children of the Tribe) Elder’s Day Out was an afternoon filled with activities held at the Oklahoma State Fair in Oklahoma City. On Sept. 20, buses unloaded tribal elders as they made their way to the state fair, having traveled from various communities. The day also served as senior citizens day for ages 55 and older, where free admission tickets into the fair was given. With the sun shining bright, elders ventured in various directions once inside the state fair, whether it
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By Latoya Lonelodge, Staff Reporter
was in the direction of cool air from the event center where vendors and booths were set up or in the direction of food trailers. While the agenda was open for all to enjoy their time freely at the state fair, many elders came along with their family and friends. “I’m here with my mother and my two sisters. We’ve been coming along ever since they started with the senior trips,” Joyce Starr, C&A tribal elder said. While enjoying family time at the fair, Starr and her family said they traveled with R.E.Sp.E.C.T. all the way from Hammon, Okla. “We rode with the buses, we would not of had transportation because where we’re from, hardly anybody there has transportation so everybody uses public transportation, the tribal shuttle or the clinic van. A lot of them don’t have transportation out there so it’s kind of hard to be way out there and so we’re all excited when they tell us we’re going somewhere. We try to encourage all our relatives to come,” Starr said.
Starr said one of the reasons she attends Elder’s Day Out is so she can see all her relatives. “You don’t get to see everybody all at once. It’s nice,” Starr said. One thing many of the elders had in common was that in coming to Elder’s Day Out, most already know each other. “I came with my partner, we enjoyed senior day and the activities that they did for games in the event center. We enjoyed walking around looking at different vendors they had out here where it’s not so crowded,” Anna Hatfield, C&A tribal elder from Oklahoma City said. Elders were also served a meal at Cimarron Steak House following the outing at the state fair. Many also acknowledged appreciation for the day. “I just really appreciate respect for doing this for the elders,” Hatfield said. For more information about Elder’s Day Out or upcoming events contact the R.E.Sp.E.C.T. program, 405422-7570.
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Public Notice - Transportation Program Oklahoma’s tribal Communities come The Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes TransImprove roadway widths, together American Indian Domestic Improve driving surfaces to existing roads, portation Program (TTP) is planning to deImprove drainage, sign and construct the Left Hand Avenue & Violence Awareness Day of Unity Improve sight distances (clearing and Tall Bull Road Improvement Project in Concho, Okla. To ensure your input regarding any future road improvements to this project, the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes request your attendance to a Scoping Meeting scheduled 11a.m.-1 p.m., Oct. 11, 2017 at the Rollin Haag Native American Church Building, 203 E. Black Kettle Blvd. in Concho, Okla. Lunch will be provided. Public involvement and input is imperative and will provide valuable insight into current and future safety concerns and needs that will be used to develop a thorough scope of work for the design and construction of the Left Hand Ave. and Tall Bull Road Improvement Project. The roads to be improved are located on the Concho Reserve and shall consist of Left Hand Ave., Tall Bull Rd., Yellow Bear Rd., and Wolf Robe Circle and the goal of this project will be to:
grubbing), Improve visibility (retroreflective signs, delineators, streets lights, etc.), Improve safety for pedestrians and bicyclist (sidewalks, crosswalks, crosswalk assemblies, etc.) and, Improve or construct new parking facilities to Tribal facilities (must be adjacent to roads). Additional information will be provided and the planning, design, construction, and inspection processes associated with this project will be discussed in further detail at the Scoping Meeting. For questions or concerns about this project please call the Tribal Transportation Program at (405)-422-7432, email Sulman Bhatt, Project Manager, at sbhatti@c-a-tribes.org, or mail to: Tribal Transportation Program, P.O. Box 137, Concho, OK 73022.
Scholarship application deadline Nov. 1 Nov. 1, 2017 is the application deadline for submission of BIA-Higher Education Scholarship applications for Spring 2018. We welcome your applications starting now. The BIA-Higher Ed application and the Gaming Higher Ed application are available on our tribal website. Google Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes is the quickest manner to reach the Website, click on programs, click on Department of Education and click on Higher Education. Or the Cheyenne and Arapaho Website is www.c-a-tribes.org. You may print the applications and mail them via U.S. mail to the address listed: Higher Education, PO Box 167, Concho OK 73022 Applicants may send the one-page application, statement of privacy form, and documents they already have by Nov. 1 then send remaining documents as they receive them. A Gaming application is also required, which
those funds will supplement the BIA scholarship. Applications must be sent to our office by U.S. mail to: Higher Education Program, PO Box 167, Concho, OK 73022 or delivered to the Department of Education Office, 200 Wolf Robe Circle in Concho, Okla. Please do not fax applications. Please do not email applications. Staff are available for advisement, counseling and questions you may have. Scholarship assistance is available to enrolled Cheyenne and Arapaho tribal members who will be attending a state-funded college or university and who will attain a 4-year degree. Private school and schools for profit are not approved for funding. Higher Ed phone numbers are 405-422-7646, 405-422-7439, and 405-422-7560. Or call toll free at 800247-4612.
(ANADARKO-OK) The any population. Native Alliance Against According to page 55 of Violence (NAAV) will be the National Institute of Jussponsoring the American tice 2016 Research Report Indian Domestic Violence on Violence Against AmerAwareness Day of Unity 1-3 ican Indian and Alaskan p.m., Oct. 11 at the South- Native women and men, of ern Plains Indian Museum those surveyed, more than in Anadarko, Okla. Over 20 84 percent of American Inof Oklahoma’s tribal domes- dian/Alaskan Native women tic violence programs will have experienced some type showcase information about of sexual violence, physical the type of resources they violence, stalking or psychohave to offer victims of vio- logical aggression in their lence. “We want to raise This event supports and brings awareness of the dohope to American Indian people mestic and sexual impacted by domestic violence. violence issues that affect so many of our Native brothers and sisters. lifetime. It is extremely important The Apache Tribe of for our tribal communities Oklahoma Violence Free to realize that there is help Living Program has taken on available for them,” Dawn the task of being this year’s Stover, NAAV executive di- event host. The event will rector said. begin with an opening cereStove said there is a need mony by the Apache Tribal to acknowledge and bring Princess Kylie Cisco, as well awareness to the fact that the as a speech from Alonzo rates of domestic and sexual Chalepah, former Apache violence against American Tribe Chairman and current Indians are the highest of contributor to Apache cultur-
al programs. Attendees will have the option to vote in an art contest featuring artwork by advocates of tribal domestic violence programs. The public will also be encouraged to join together for a candle ceremony that highlights the prevalence of domestic violence in Oklahoma. The Native Alliance Against Violence (NAAV), is Oklahoma’s only tribal domestic violence and sexual assault coalition. The NAAV, a nonprofit organization, serves Oklahoma’s federally recognized tribes and the tribal programs that provide individuals and their children with the protection and services they need to pursue safe and healthy lives. The NAAV provides culturally appropriate training, technical assistance and support to address crimes of domestic and sexual violence, dating violence, stalking, and sex trafficking. Paid advertising
VA awards $188M in grant funding to help homeless veterans The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has announced $188 million in grants for two programs benefiting homeless veterans. The grants were made through the Grant and Per Diem (GPD) program, awarded to community agencies providing services to homeless veterans. Awards announced today will provide approximately $185 million in per diem funding for 556 projects to community agencies that provide transitional housing and supportive care for homeless veterans. Awards were made to programs in 49 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. In addition, approximately $3 million in grant funding will be awarded to 13 community agencies that provide services for homeless veterans with special needs. The GPD Special Need funding provides additional operational costs for transitional housing and services for homeless veterans who fall under “Special Need” populations, including women, those with chronic mental illness and individuals who care for minor dependents.
National Indian Education Association annual Convention and Tradeshow Oct. 4-7, 2017 at the Caribe Royale in Orlando, Fla. For more information or to register visit www.ncai.org. Midwest Native American Human Resources Conference Oct. 10-11, 2017 at the Aloft in Bricktown, Okla. For more information or to register visit www.10times. com/midwest-native-amer-
We look forward to our continued partnership with the awardees as we work together to end veteran homelessness. Our goal is to help give at-risk veterans stable housing and a good start to independence. “The GPD program has been instrumental in providing needed services to community organizations,” said VA Secretary Dr. David J. Shulkin. “We look forward to our continued partnership with the awardees as we work together to end veteran homelessness. Our goal is to help give at-risk veterans stable housing and a good start to independence.” Since the GPD program began awarding grants in 1994, approximately $2 billion has been awarded to community organizations serving homeless Veterans. The complete list of awardees may be found at https://www.va.gov/homeless/gpd.asp. More information about VA’s homeless programs is available at www.va.gov/ homeless. Community organizations seeking details can visit VA’s National Grant and Per Diem Program website at www. va.gov/homeless/GPD.ASP.
ican-human-resources-conference. The 2017 AMERIND Risk Institute Conference Oct. 10-11, 2017 at the Sandia Resort & Casino in Albuquerque, N.M. For more information or to register visit www.amerindrisk. org. The 74th annual Convention & Marketplace / We Are Strong Nations Oct. 15-20, 2017 at the
BRIEFS AT A GLANCE
Wisconsin Center in Milwaukee, Wis. For more information or to register visit www.ncai.org. Tribal Grants Management Certification Program Oct. 16-20, 2017 in Las Vegas, Nev. For more information or to register visit www.falmouthinstitute.com. Elder Care for Native American and Alaskan Native Communities and Or-
ganizations Oct. 24-25, 2017 in Las Vegas, Nev. For more information or to register visit www.falmouthinstitute.com.
American Indian Higher Education Consortium’s FALCOM 2017 annual Conference Nov. 3-16 at the Westin Crystal City in Arlington, VA. For more information visit www.aihec.org. Native American Health
Care Conference Nov. 5-7, 2017 at the Morongo Casino & Resort in Cabazon, Calif. For more information visit www.10times.com/native-american-health-care-conference.
struction: Planning & Funding for Tribal Organizations Nov. 16-17, 2017 at the Luxor in Las Vegas, Nev. For more information visit www. falmouthinstitute.com.
Developing Tribal Travel Policies using IRS and OMB Guidelines Nov. 7-8 in Las Vegas, Nev. For more information visit www.falmouthinstitute. com. Reservation Road Con-
Native American Leadership Forum Dec. 11-12, 2017 at the Monte Carlo Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nev. For more information visit www.10times.com/native-american-leadership-forum-west.
Birthday Honor Dance for Arapaho Chief Patrick Spottedwolf Sept. 30, 2017 at the Clinton Community Center in Clinton, Okla. Gourd dancing at 3 p.m., supper at 5 p.m. with evening session to follow. MC Asa Littlebird, HS OT Sankey, HMD Roderick Sweezy, HLD Lena Nells, HLB Omri Rhoads (3), HLG Jaeda Rhoads (6), AD Tony Soldier, Co-Host Red Moon Gourd Clan. Honored gueest
is the 2017 Arapaho Tribal Princess Veronica Youngbull. For more information call 405-541-6435 or 918506-2323. Otoe-Missouria Intertribal Veteran Stand Down 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Friday, Oct. 6, 2017 at the 7 Clans Paradise Casino, 7500 Hwy. 177 in Red Rock, Okla. Free services available. Transportation available by calling 580-304-3185. For Veteran Services call 405-456-3876.
Native American Church Benefit Gourd Dance Oct. 7, 2017 at the Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma Powwow grounds ‘Chena’ Building, three miles south of Perkins, Okla. 2017 NAC of OK Fall Conference at 10 a.m., gourd dance at 2 p.m., supper at 5 p.m., gourd dance at 6 p.m. MC John Arkeketa, HS Jimmy Kemble, HGD Everett Denny, HL Alicia McClellan and AD Amos LittleCrow. Invitation to all NAC
Chapters, Veterans and Princesses. For more information call Shayla Miller at 405-269-4203 or Chalis Robedeaux at 405-7142505. Memorial Peyote Meeting for Ida Nibbs Williams & Family Oct. 13, 2017 at the Williams residence, 3.5 miles south of Canton, Okla. Everyone is invited to attend and come pray with us. Talihina Fall Festival 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Oct. 28,
Calendar
2017 a the Talihina School Ag Barn, two blocks off of Highway 271 in Talihina, Okla. Arts & crafts, car show, live entertainment, 5K run and more. Sponsored by the Talihina Chamber of Commerce. For more information call 918-567-3434.
The 26th annual Austin Powwow and American Indian Heritage Festival 10 a.m. - 10 p.m., Nov. 4, 2017 at the Travis County Expo Center, 7311 Decker Lane in Austin, Texas.
Native Amerian Market runs 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. $25,000 in cash prizes. MC Choogle Kingfisher, AD Harold Rogers and Emilliano Flores, HMD Cecil Gray, HLD Brennah Wahweotten, HGD Hyde Toppah, Head Judge Juaquin Hamilton, Host Southern Drum Thunder Hill of Oklahoma, Host Northern Drum Young Bear of North Dakota and Color Guard Cherokee/ Kituwah. For vendor information email info@austinpowwow. net.
Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune
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Tsistsistas & Hinonoei
Tsistsistas & Hinonoei
Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune
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/ Dorsett Gorham / Dorsett OCTOBER 3 OCTOBER 3 Gorham Governor & Lt. Governor Governor & Lt. Governor Message from Hershel Gorham
I am reaching out to all of our Cheyenne and Arapaho people today humbled by the task before us as our Tribes prepare for a new Governor and administration. This is the last ad before the Primary election of a campaign that began five months ago. We’ve gone to many corners of our service areas, from our kickoff meeting in Geary to the rural communities of Canton and Hammon, to the communities of Clinton and Kingfisher, to our headquarters at Concho and to other communities in between including Oklahoma City. Teresa and I did not start out as the favorite candidates for the office of Governor. We didn’t start with many endorsements or very much money. Our Strong Leadership campaign was not hatched in the halls of the tribal complex … it began with brainstorming on the back porch and in the living rooms of our homes.
Our hard work and efforts and the efforts of our supporters have helped change many tribal members’ minds. We understand that our tribes face some very real challenges and that these are the indicators of a crisis amongst our people. They will not be met easily or in a short period of time. But know this Cheyenne and Arapaho members – if Gorham-Dorsett are elected these challenges will be met. Everywhere we look in our tribes there is work to be done. The state of our election process for this election was broken before it even began. Current and past leadership have relied heavily upon outside attorneys and third parties to make basic decisions for them with many of these decisions coming at a cost to our tribes both economically and to create a rift between our different governmental branches. The state of our tribal economy calls for bold and swift action. Gorham-Dorsett will act to help create new jobs and lay a new foundation for growth in all of our service areas. We will transform our tribal Website into one that meets the needs of our people and provides members with access to the documents and information you need and that helps meets the needs of a new technological age we live in. At our campaign meetings and on our Facebook page, we have worked hard to address issues and not engage in personal attacks. Teresa and I have been fierce in defending ourselves when false rumors are spread about us but we’ve tried to make sure that we are always reminding our supporters and all tribal members that all of us are in this together. Needless to say, our campaign has not been perfect. There have been times when I looked back and wished I had mentioned something that I forgot or wished we
Message from Teresa Dorsett On Oct. 3, 2017 Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribal members will cast their vote for Governor and Lt. Governor of our Tribes with the top two moving forward to the General election in November. Hershel Gorham and I, Teresa Dorsett are asking for your vote in the Primary election and look forward to a strong and successful campaign in the coming month. Many tribal members know me as I have worked for the Tribes for many years in various capacities. For those of you who I have had the privilege of working with, I hope that you can attest to my character, professionalism and passion I have for my Cheyenne and Arapaho people. For those of you who do not know me, I offer you the following background information in hopes you can get to know me better. During the Flyingman administration I was asked by Mr. Flyingman to leave my job at UNITY, United National Indian Tribal Youth in Oklahoma City, to accept the position of Executive Director of Administration for the Tribes. I graciously agreed to come back to work for the Tribes. Previously I had worked for the Tribes Education Department, Indian Child Welfare Program, Substance Abuse Program and was the first employee to be hired at Lucky Star Casino as an assistant before the casino was built. After working as Executive Director of Administration for approximately nine months, I was asked by Mr. Flyingman to fill the vacancy of Lt. Governor. I accepted and became Mr. Flyingman’s third Lt. Governor. When election time came around Mr. Flyingman asked me to run on a ticket alongside him, with him as my Lt. Governor. I declined the offer, as I did not agree with his management or leadership style. Shortly afterwards, in November 2009 I was fired by Mr. Flyingman. At this time I filed for unemployment with the State of Oklahoma and received unemployment based on their conclu-
sion I had been wrongfully dismissed from the Tribes. In January 2010 I was asked by former Gov. Boswell to serve as the Executive Director of Education in which I again graciously accepted the offer to work for the Tribes. I possess two Master’s of Education degrees and had previously served as the Tribes Education Director for seven years before I moved to Albuquerque, N.M., where I worked for the Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute (SIPI). During my time as Executive Director of Education for the Tribes, I was selected as President of the Oklahoma Council for Indian Education (OCIE), a statewide Indian education advocacy organization. Me, along with the Education staff, reached out to the Chickasaw Nation and collaboratively applied for the State and Tribal Education Partnership grant in which we were recipients of this prestigious and first of its kind grant. In addition, under my leadership, the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes Television station was created and continues to operate to this day. We wrote for ANA language grants and were awarded, which are currently still going stronger than ever within our Tribes Education Department. We provided outreach to local schools and communities in an effort to strengthen tribal and public school relationships for the benefit of our tribal children. I worked diligently for four years under the Boswell administration to fulfill my duties and responsibilities as Executive Director of Education for the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes. In 2014, I was informed by Gov. Eddie Hamilton that I was being replaced as Executive Director of Education. Gov. Hamilton had no place for me in his administration. I was then asked by Cecil Gray to work as his Assistant Executive Director of Administration and I accepted. By default, and after Mr. Gray was let
would have done something a little sooner or different. At the same time, I couldn’t be prouder. When you look at how we’ve run our campaign we’ve got a lot to be proud of when it comes to the tone and standard that we’ve set. Our team brings over 50 years of combined experience in tribal government, federal government, private sector, military and legal experience. Our experience in administration, education, health, social services, budget formulation, gaming, and legal services are just a few of the positives we bring as a team. We are proud and humbled that we both currently work for our tribes and are excited to be in a position to serve as your next Governor and Lt. Governor. A vote for Hershel Gorham and Teresa Dorsett on October 3rd is a vote for: A team who will work for you and can make decisions without spending millions of dollars on attorney fees. An attorney and honorably discharged veteran and lifelong proponent of Education and Families who will fight for you. A chance to bring Strong Leadership that can make our economy, families, communities and traditions our priorities. Regardless of whatever happens in the Primary on October 3rd, Teresa and I have been humbled by this journey. We have been welcomed into every community we have visited with open arms. You have spoken of the struggles in your communities and shared with us the concerns and issues of our tribes. As this Primary election comes to an end, Cheyenne and Arapaho tribal members I have just one date to remind you of. October 3. After decades of broken politics in Concho, 12 years of failed policies by current and past administrations, we are less than four days away from bringing about much needed Strong Leadership to the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes. October 3 you can give our tribes the Strong Leadership that we need. It starts here in Canton, Seiling and Watonga. It starts here in Concho, Kingfisher and Geary. It starts here in Clinton and Weatherford. It starts here in Elk City and Hammon. Last of all, it starts with all of you absentee voters. This is where our Strong Leadership can begin. In less than four days, if you are willing to drag a family member or a friend who is not going to vote, to the polls. If you are willing to stand with us, if you are willing to fight the corruption with us, I know that your vote and your voice will be heard and will matter. Let’s start a new era with Strong Leadership. Sincerely, Hershel Gorham, Governor Candidate
go from his position for unfounded accusations, I was asked to serve as Executive Director of Administration for the Hamilton administration. Over the past three and a half years, I have once again worked diligently to address critical administrative issues of Tribes. Overseeing 20 programs in tribal administration, I have the responsibility to ensure our internal processes and procedures are efficient, fair and in accordance with federal guidelines. The Department of Veterans Affairs program was established and is providing much needed services to our tribal Veterans. The Tribes Drug and Alcohol Policy has been written and is awaiting input from Tribal attorneys before it goes before the Legislature for approval. The Tribes Personnel Policies have been re-written and is in draft form for a committee to review and approve. The Tribes Property and Supply Policies and Procedures have been rewritten, updated and approved by Legislators. The Tribes Procurement, Grants and Contracts manual has been re-written and is awaiting approval from the Legislative Branch. The Community Development Program has been reorganized and is operating in an efficient manner to oversee our community and construction projects. The Tribes Personnel Department has updated all files and is in compliance with federal standards of record keeping. The Tribes Emergency Management Program is operational and working to establish emergency protocol. Operations and Maintenance Program has been expanded to address tribal infrastructure and maintenance needs of all tribal property and buildings. The Elder Care and HOPE programs work diligently to provide much needed services to tribal members and elders in need. The Tribal Transportation and Roads program continues to strive for excellence in providing safe access roads, driveway assistance and other transportation needs of our communities. The Economic Development Program has been restructured to begin investing in true economic endeavors that will eventually and with tribal leadership support create more jobs and bring additional revenue into the Tribes. It goes without saying that all of these tasks have been accomplished by and with the expertise and professionalism of each Department of Administration Program Director. As a leader, it is and would be our responsibility to hire tribal members and employees who can strengthen programs and the administrative services that help create a well-functioning government. In addition to ensuring I fulfill my duties and responsibilities in my respective position, I have always stepped up and offered to help other departments with certain tasks. Over the past three administrations, I have helped organize the trib-
al budget process in which programs submit and provide justification for their annual budgets and the compilation of the tribal budgets for submittal to the Legislature. Recently, I assisted the Department of Social Services address the critical need of tribal foster children in DHS custody and recruiting tribal foster homes, which we are currently still in great need of. I firmly believe that our children, families and communities have been neglected for too long. Indian persons in general, not to mention Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribal members, suffer from major health and social disparities. We continue to struggle with substance abuse, domestic violence, child welfare issues, teenage parents, unemployment, incarceration, lack of housing for elders and tribal members in general, loss of identity in our youth and now our adult population, and the list goes on. Our families should be our priority. Our resources should go to programs and efforts that offer, not a handout, but a hand-up to our tribal members. This would consist of state-of-the-art and culturally relevant treatment facilities, parenting programs for young parents and parents who struggle with child-rearing, group homes for our tribal children so they are not left alone in the State DHS system where they are often forgotten and adopted out to non-Indian homes, job training and skill development programs, enhanced GED and adult education programs, re-entry programs for our tribal members who have been incarcerated and want a second chance, housing programs and editions for our elders who cannot afford month to month rent with limited social security income, strong cultural and traditional programs that focus on the rich traditions of the Cheyenne and Arapaho people, and other programs that our tribal members can count on to help them become self-sustaining and productive members of the Tribes and this nation as whole. With this being said and for those people who want to assume that I was and am a part of the problem because I have worked for all three administrations … I beg to differ. Just because I may disagree with tribal leadership, their ways, their leadership style or any other disagreement, I will not walk away from the table. My position is that I was not working for Flyingman, Boswell or Hamilton. I was and am working for and on behalf of all Tribal members. I don’t accept a position to please the leadership, I accept a position to work diligently for the program or department that I am hired for and more importantly, for the people. One thing that I have learned working for the past three administrations is that unfortunately, you have to be in a leadership position to make the changes that we as a Tribe must make. I have made recommendations, expressed concerns, at-
tempted to discuss issues, but unless it is a priority for our Governor and leadership, unless they share the same vision, and unless they feel like change is needed, it usually doesn’t happen. As leaders, we must be open to listening to others, investing in others, communicating and collaborating with other branches of government as well as our tribal members. It cannot be a one or two man show. I believe that some people mistake my desire to work collaboratively with tribal leadership as me being part of the problem. Again, if I were to walk away, I would be absolutely no good to the Tribes or the future of our Tribes. If I believed in our tribal administration and felt they were the best leaders for the Tribes, I would not be on the ballot indicating that change was needed. For those tribal members that do not work at the Tribes or have never worked at the Tribes, I would like to inform you that the majority of the employees who work at the Tribes are hard working, committed, intelligent and loyal employees. They come to work everyday and provide a service that in some way benefits tribal members in need. There are not a bunch of crooks working for the Tribes, as some would have you believe. There have been things that have happened over the past administrations that should never have happened. There has been mismanagement, favoritism, lack of accountability and other things that have not served our Tribes or the members well. However, when this happens it is a reflection of leadership or lack thereof, not the 500 plus employees who work for the Tribes. The leadership that we choose as our next Governor and Lt. Governor should not be candidates of divisiveness and hatred. They should not be candidates of revenge or lacking leadership skills. They should bring to the table a vision, promise, hope, integrity, empowerment and true leadership. Our youth depend on us to one day bring these attributes to the table and they deserve to have tribal leaders who will empower them to have a voice and stand up for what they believe to be true and right. Unfortunately, our Tribe over the years has created a culture of repression of our own people. Tribal members and employees are not empowered to speak their belief or opinion in fear of losing a job or tribal benefits. This is the sad reality of our current tribal state. First, we as a tribe must do the right thing, be accountable, be professional, be transparent with the good and bad, make wrongs right, and move forward with a tribal vision, knowing that someday, we will be gone and all our youth will have is what we leave them. In addressing some mistruths about me as a candidate, I have never received a HUD home or
any other type of home from the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes. In 2000 I obtained my own home loan and applied for the Tribes Down Payment assistance program and bought my first home at the age of 33. I sold my home in 2005 at which time I moved to Albuquerque. After moving back and for the past 10 years I have lived in rental homes until 2015 when I obtained another home loan, on my own, without the Tribes down payment assistance program, and have lived here since. While there are some capable candidates running for our future leaders of the Tribes, I believe that Hershel Gorham and I are the candidates that will change the status quo of the Tribes and move us into an era of progress and unity. We want you to know who we are as candidates so please visit our Website and ask questions that may help you to determine if we are the best candidates for the job. In closing and in addressing unfinished business regarding one of the Department of Administration programs, our Planning and Development program, over the past ten years or so, has created long and short term plans for the future growth of our Tribes. These plans are incorporated in a CEDS document, Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy, a Master Plan for the Tribes, and a base studies document that helps guide leadership decisions when addressing tribal priorities. The problem with this and the leadership issue as a whole, is that our tribal leadership, Executive or Legislative, have not taken a proactive stance in studying the documents; listing, updating or identifying tribal priorities; and moving the Tribes forward with a strategic plan of any kind. We cannot continue to operate the Tribes in a “status quo” mentality. Strong leadership is comprised of hard work, unifying the troops, meetings, brainstorming, compromise, strategizing and making sound decisions. Strong leadership is about doing the right and fair thing all the time. Strong leadership is about addressing tribal inefficiencies that ultimately affect our bottom line. Strong leadership is realizing that the tradition and culture of our Tribes is the core of who we are and must be a tribal priority. Strong leadership is not bringing bad feelings or a vengeful agenda to the table. Most importantly, a strong Tribal nation is one that elects leaders that will bring strong leadership when it is needed the most. We need it now! We want this job for the purpose of making our tribal members’ lives healthier, happier and prosperous, and so we can ensure that our children and grandchildren have a sustainable tribal community that can be passed on. We are counting on you to vote Gorham-Dorsett for your next Governor and Lt. Governor of the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes.
Strong Leadership Equals Strong Economy Strong Family Strong Traditions Strong Community
Follow Our Campaign Trail on Facebook www.facebook.com/GorhamDorsett2018
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Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune
Tsistsistas & Hinonoei
Tsistsistas & Hinonoei
Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune
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Happy 59th Birthday Patrick Bent Oct. 8 Love you and thank you for all you do for our family Elsie Sage and Tarrah Primeaux
Sept. 29 I would like to wish my twin brother Aaron Yelloweagle a happy birthday. I hope you’re having a good birthday. It seems just like yesterday we were little boys skinning up our knees. Now you’re 24 years old. Well we both are now. I’m proud to call you my brother. We’ve had some good times on this journey so far. And you have came a long ways. Even though we are far apart our bond remains strong. I’m with you in heart. Happy birthday brother. From Eric Yelloweagle
Sept. 19 Happy birthday to my beautiful niece Jayden Destiny Patterson, 15 years old next year. We’ll have to clear the streets and sidewalks cause someone has to drive momma Amber around. Love you, your grandpa Jimmy and uncle Dennis.
Happy 18 Birthday Natane Pelkey Love Your Family th
Sept. 4 Happy birthday to my one and only baby sister! Love and miss you, I still remember your first Labor Day Powwow. Dennis Washa
Happy Belated Birthday to my son Francis R. Haag Love your mom Elsie Ross and all your family
Oct. 5 Happy 2nd Birthday Nyla Rose Whitebird We love this little girl. From Robert and Hailey Whitebird, Michelle Whitebird, Terry Honea, Darla Harris, Kish and Betty Whitebird, George and Loy dean Honea. Happy Birthday to my daughter Jaiden Gabrial on Oct. 3 My son Xaylen Blace on Oct. 18 My baby sister Lindsay B. on Oct. 11 I love you with all my heart. Love, your dad and big brother Jay
Happy 39th Birthday Amy Sage Oct. 12 Love you and thank you always being there for us. momma Elsie and Tarrah Happy 18th Birthday Kaleb Primeaux Oct. 31 Love you and wish you many more! sister Tarrah, grama Elsie & grandpa Patrick
Love and Happy Birthday Phyllis LoneElk From all your family Love and Happy Birthday Philip Roy LoneElk From your dad and all your family
“Happy Birthday Noodles! Oct 6” Codi Gonzalez
Thank You Our family would like to take this time to express our sincerest gratitude and appreciation for all of the kindness shown us in our time of grief. All of your thoughts, prayers, and help made it possible for us to travel to Arizona to walk the last mile with our precious granddaughter Kiera Blackwolf and send her on in a good way. We do know how blessed we are to have so many friends, relatives, and tribal members whose prayers gave us strength and encouragement when it was needed most. From brother Rumel, Tyrell, Noah, sister
Thalia and baby sister Adrianna. grandma Vida, grandpa Donovan and her other grandparents Leota and Clayton Watahomigie. Also great-grandpa Don Blackwolf, great-grandmother Betty White and all the rest of her family, we give our heartfelt gratitude to all of you. Hohou
Thank You
Linda “Lindy” Gale Zotigh Nov. 21, 1961 Sept. 7, 2017 An all night revival was held Sept. 13 at the Hammon Community Center. Funeral services were held Sept. 14 at the Hammon School Auditorium, followed by an Interment at the Hammon Indian Cemetery in Hammon, Okla.
Saul Birdshead Jr. April 19, 1931 Sept. 9, 2017 A prayer service was held Sept. 13 at the United Methodist Church of Apache. Funeral services were held Sept. 14 at the same venue, followed by an Interment at the Cache Creek KCA Cemetery in Apache, Okla.
Alexander Jimmy Stone March 30, 1949 Sept. 11, 2017 Funeral services were held Sept. 15 at the Omega Funeral Home Chapel in Portland, Ore.
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Joseph Anthony Dyer July 16, 1969 Sept. 16, 2017 An all night wake service was held Sept. 21 at the Clinton Community Center. Funeral services were held Sept. 22 at the same venue, followed by an Interment at the Clinton City Cemetery in Clinton, Okla.
Gerald Panana Jr. May 29, 1979 Sept. 18, 2017 A wake service was held Sept. 21 at the Clinton Indian Baptist Church. Funeral services were held Sept. 22 at the same venue, followed by an Interment at the Thomas Cemetery in Thomas, Okla.
ELDER CARE APPLICATIONS DUE OCT. 14
The 2018 Commemoration Planning Committee of the Native American Church would like to thank the fantastic Head Staff for supporting this fund raising Benefit Dance that was held Saturday, Sept. 23. We also want to thank the members and other individuals who brought cooked food items and desserts for the meal. We thank the ticket sellers who helped in selling tickets for raffles. We thank all the family members who donated items for the raffles. We really enjoyed the singing as the spirit was there with the songs sung. We witnessed all the gourd dancers enjoying the songs. The committee wishes to personally thank Roderick and Angie Sweezy and Sweezy family members for all their support that they show for the cause. We also thank the committee members Teresa and Mike Murray, Sherry Buchanan, Mike
and Julie Burgess in helping with this fund raiser. Our next Fund raiser will be Oct. 7, which will be a Benefit Dance hosted by the Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma and will be held in Perkins, Okla., at their tribal community building. Shayla Miller, committee member was instrumental in coordinating this dance. We are extending an invitation to come, eat and dance. Submitted by Eloise Rice, Treasurer, on behalf of the 2018 Commemoration Planning Committee for Native American Church of Oklahoma.
Gifted & Talented - Sponsorships Wanted Greetings: My name is Allison Tucker, daughter of Rachael Heap of Birds and Julie Tucker, and I am Cheyenne, Kiowa and an enrolled member of the Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribes. I am 16 years old and live in Bethel Acres, Okla., where I attend Bethel High School as a junior. I also take concurrent courses at Seminole State College. I have recently been specially selected to travel for a school function for an 11day trip to Italy. They chose former and current Gifted and Talented (GT) students to attend, which is scheduled for Spring 2019. We will be visiting Florence, Rome, Pompeii and the Vatican City for an educational tour to explore the rich and diverse culture of Italy, as well as studying the historical treasures and beautiful artwork Italy has to offer. Overall, I will need to raise approximately $4,000 for travel expenses, which includes airfare, hotel stay, meals and entrance fees to
the monuments and attractions. Any donation would be extremely appreciated as well as any sponsorship. This opportunity is a oncein-a-lifetime experience and I am very excited and honored to be invited. Thank you in advance for your support and I look forward to hearing from you soon. For any questions or additional information please feel free to reach me by email at allisonanquoe@ gmail.com. To donate through PayPal visit www.gofundme. com/npn44-my-italy-trip.
Thank you. Allison Tucker
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EMPLOYMENT
Tsistsistas & Hinonoei
Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune
LEGAL NOTICES
Employment: Submit a tribal application, resume, diploma(s), transcripts, valid copy of Oklahoma state driver’s license and a copy of CDIB (if applidable) to Personnel Department, PO Box 38, Concho, OK 73022 or email atisdale@c-a-tribes.org. Headstart Transportation/ Floater F-T / Concho Closing: Until Filled Qualifications: Must have a valid Oklahoma driver’s license and be willing to obtain a CDL and Bus Driver’s certificate within 90 days of hire. Must be in good physical health, which allows lifting and moving. Ability to work independently. Knowledge of Head Start is desirable. A high school diploma or GED required. Must be familiar with federal, regional, state and local tribal regulations as they apply to the specific area of program operations. Ability to manage physically active children, ages 3-5 within a weight range up to 60 pounds, including lifting, restraining, guiding, pursuing, withstanding sudden movements. SALARY: Negotiable Diabetes Wellness Program Community Outreach The Diabetes Wellness Program would like to inform all current clients and invite potential new clients to our community outreach visits at the locations below. The RN, Dietitian and Optometry Technician will be available for foot exams, dietitian consults and eyeglasses. 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Oct. 5, 2017 Hammon Community Center 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Oct.11, 2017 Seiling Community Center 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Oct. 17, 2017 Canton Community Center 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Oct. 19, 2017 Indep. Living Ctr. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Nov. 1, 2017 Watonga Community Center 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Nov. 2, 2017 Geary Community Center REQUIRED DOCUMENTS (No Exceptions): CDIB Current driver’s license or state ID Proof of residency (electric, gas, cable, rent receipt etc.) Prescriptions for eyeglasses or Nike wellness shoes Proof of diabetes For more information call Lana LittleElk at 405422-7723
Tsistsistas & Hinonoei
Lucky Star Casino hosts fundraiser for Hurricane Harvey victims & Johnson O’Malley Program
Transit Driver II (2) OnCall Status Closing: Until Filled Qualifications: Valid Oklahoma Class D driver’s license required. Must possess or be willing to obtain CPR certification. Transit drivers must pass a pre-employment drug screening process and subject to random drug testing. Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds with no physical barriers. Applicant must be able to communicate effectively to patrons and supervisors any findings or incidents. High school diploma or GED equivalent required. Cheyenne-Arapaho preference. SALARY: Negotiable
Lucky Star Casino presents check in the amount of $54,882 to the Cheyenne and Arapaho Emergency Management Program, the Elder Care Program and the HOPE Program to assist with Hurricane Harvey victims. Pictured l-r: Cheyenne & Arapaho Gov. Eddie Ham-
ilton, Emergency Management Director Basil Pollock, HOPE Director Judy Hosapple, Lucky Star Casino Marketing Coordinator Lisa Martin, Elder Care Program Director Lori Penner, Lucky Star General Manager Mannix Barnes and Lucky Star Senior Assistant General Manager Tracer Hamilton.
Lucky Star Casino presents check in the amount of $52,226 to the Johnson O’Malley Program (JOM) for school supplies for Cheyenne & Arapaho tribal students. Pictured l-r: Cheyenne & Arapaho Gov. Eddie Hamilton, JOM Coordinator Francine Williams,
Lucky Star Casino Senior Assistant General Manager Tracer Hamilton, Lucky Star Marketing Coordinator Lisa Martin, Lucky Star Operations Manager Robert RomanNose, Travel Center Assistant Manager Vanessa Pedro and Lucky Star General Manager Mannix Barnes.
LOOKING FOR FAMILY
My name is Harrison W. Thomas and I am asking for help to get in contact with my dad, Delano Lefthand or anyone in his family. I would like to know more about my dad and his family. You can write me at Harrison Thomas #208755 8607 SE Flower Mound Rd. Lawton, OK 73501
Back to School Health and Safety Tips It is that time of the year again! Summer vacation has ended and children are back in school. Each new year brings a new set of challenges. Clinton Service Unit (CSU) wishes every child a productive and healthy school year. Here are a few tips for helping your child stay safe and healthy through the year: Physical Exams All children should have a yearly physical examination with their primary care provider. There are many reasons this visit is important, including: · Make sure you have the chance to discuss any health concerns · Get your child routine recommended screenings · Monitor growth and development · Renew any necessary
medications · Make a plan for managing chronic diseases like asthma, allergies, obesity, etc. For children participating in sports, it is important that they have additional evaluation to make sure they are healthy enough to play. · Evaluation for any heart related issues in the child or family members · Checking the muscles, bones, and joints and making sure any old injuries are taken care of · Making sure they have all the necessary medical equipment to play safely (safety goggles, braces, etc.) · Evaluating risk of concussion, heat injury, musculoskeletal injuries and counseling on other prevention strategies Preventing Illness
There are many ways to reduce children’s risk of illness, including: · Making sure immunizations are up-to-date! Some important immunization milestones include: Preschool (ages 4-5) DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough) IPV (polio) MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) Varicella (Chicken Pox) 6th grade (Age 11-12) Tdap (Tetanus, diphtheria, whooping cough) HPV (Human papillomavirus Meningococcal ACWY High school/pre-college ( Age 16-18) Meningococcal ACWY Meningococcal B Getting a yearly flu shot These will be available in the clinic in mid -September
The flu vaccine is recommended for ALL children Vaccines can be given on a walk-in basis in the pediatrics clinic Practicing good hand hygiene & cough and cold etiquette Preventing Injury It is very important for children and teenagers to receive education on preventing injury. Important areas to address: · Appropriate car seats and booster seats for younger children · Wearing helmets when riding bikes, scooters, etc. · Wearing appropriate sports protection · Avoiding tobacco, alcohol and drugs · Drinking and driving · Risky sexual behaviors · Gun safety
Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune
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Ashley Blackbear
Interview/photo by Latoya Lonelodge Born in El Reno, Okla. This one and raised in Watonga, game against Okla., Ashley Blackbear, 16, Pioneer we preps for her junior year of were really basketball at Watonga High close, I think School. Standing at 5’8, we were tied Ashley plays center forward and went into for the Watonga Eagles. overtime, it When did you first begin was crazy and playing and how? intense. In fifth grade, I just signed What is the up for it and played and been best advice playing it ever since. you have ever What is it about the sport been given that you love the best? and who gave Getting a lot of playing you that advice? time My family always tells What has been your big- me to keep doing me, just do gest accomplishment in the whatever you’re doing so I sport so far? can succeed. Being able to score, I’ve Do you have a saying or been progressing. motto that you live your life What is your biggest ac- by? complishment in the classI don’t really have one. room so far? Who or what inspires you Keeping my grades up the most? and keeping my head in the My grandpa, he’s just a books. good person. What is your GPA (if What does your routine known)? workout consist of to stay fit 3.8 for your sport? How often? What goals have you Lifting, shooting, doing set for yourself in sports, post drills, being able to school? score and running. I workout Being able to make it far, daily for off season. to take the team to state, I What are one or two just want the team to be able things in your training, that to go to state. For school, you feel are keys to you being graduating as valedictorian successful in your sport? or salutatorian. Being strong, it would be What actions are you tak- lifting and running to be able ing to reach these goals? to go for a long time. Just keeping up with my What is your favorite school work, I always say meal before or after a game? it’s academics before athletSubway. ics so I just keep my head in Who has had the biggest the books. impact on your life? What has been the most My grandpa and my exciting game you have grandma. played in? What are some of your
hobbies (what do you like to do when not playing sports)? Hanging with my friends, What kinds of music do you enjoy listening to? I like to listen to throwbacks like R&B. What is one thing about you that no one else knows? Nothing, a lot of people just know me. Were you ever bullied in school? What steps do you feel should be taken to protect those being bullied in schools today? No, but being able to take up for others like stepping in whenever someone is being bullied. How do you combat drug & alcohol use by peer pressure? I just tell them no, I don’t do that, I’m an athlete I can’t do all that. If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be? The way other people treat others. Treats others how you want to be treated. What would be a dream come true for you in your life? After I get out of college,
become not rich but have money to be able to do things for my family. Who is your favorite athlete of all time? Kiery Irving or Russell Westbrook, they just dominate in what they do. Which team is your favorite team? Oklahoma City Thunder. What are your immediate plans after graduating high school? I’m planning to go to school at SWOSU and transfer to OU, I want to be a physical therapist. What would be your advice to younger kids coming up behind you? Just stay in school and stay out of trouble, keep your head in the books and your grades up. If you do athletics, stay in it to help keep active. Ashley’s parents are Fredrick Blackbear and Kendra Toahty. Her grandparents are Aurelia Littlebird and Eugene Blackbear Jr. Ashley has three siblings in her household, Andrea Willey, Anessa Woods and Jameason Blackbear. Paid advertising
All Tribal Offices will be closed on Monday, Oct. 9, 2017 in observance of Indigenous Day. Offices will reopen at 8 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 10.
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Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Tribune
Four reasons to get the Flu vaccine
By Dr. Sarah Hartnet Clinton Service Unit Clinical Director
Well, it is that time of year again! Flu season will be upon us shortly, so it is time to start thinking about getting your yearly flu shot. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) now recommends that everybody over 6 months of age should get a yearly flu vaccine. Here are four reasons I recommend flu vaccine to all of my patients, friends, and family: Flu is no joke! Influenza is a serious viral illness that causes thousands of deaths each year. While most flu related death is among the elderly and chronically ill, even young, healthy people who catch influenza can become seriously ill. It is not unusual to have high fevers for several days and to miss up to a week of work due to influenza – and who has that kind of time? The flu shot works! The flu vaccine trains your body to fight the flu, so that you can either avoid getting it at all, or if you do get it you will not be nearly as sick. Every year, the scientists who develop the influenza vaccine do extensive studies to determine which strains of the flu they expect to dominate the flu season, then they make the vaccine based on these predictions. So some years the prediction is spot-on and we get great protection, while other years the virus is sneakier and we may see that the vaccine is less effective. Some people think this means the flu vaccine is “not worth it”, because
it doesn’t always work 100%. But think about it this way – if you are going out in the rain, would you rather have a small umbrella, or no umbrella at all? The flu shot does NOT give you the flu. The flu vaccine is either made with a killed or very weak form of the flu. While some people may get a little runny nose, cough, or soreness after their flu vaccine, these symptoms are very mild compared to the nastiness of a true influenza infection. We can all help protect each other. When you get a flu vaccine, you are not only protecting yourself, you are protecting everybody around you as well. Not everybody can get a vaccine, especially tiny babies or people with very weak immune systems. And since no vaccine is 100%, not everybody who gets the vaccine will have full protection. But the more of us who get the vaccine, the less overall flu will be floating around, ready to infect these vulnerable people. So when you really think about it, you’ll realize that by getting your flu shot you could help save the life of somebody’s newborn baby or sick grandmother. We will be providing flu vaccines here at the Clinton Indian Health Center all throughout the flu season. You don’t even need an appointment; just come on in to the clinic or pharmacy and we’ll be happy to get you your vaccine and get you on your way!
Tsistsistas & Hinonoei