Cherokee Phoenix, April 2006
Transcription
Cherokee Phoenix, April 2006
Native roots Premiere Repeat Robert J. Conley to speak at the 34th Symposium of the American Indian. Trail of Tears documentary premieres in Tahlequah. Lady Indians win the state championship a second time. News Page 8 Arts & Culture Page 29 Sports Page 20 Volume XXX, No. 4 • Celebrating 178 Years of Native American Journalism • April 2006 Tornado strikes Cherokee, Delaware counties Minor injuries are reported, but up to 75 homes and businesses are damaged. By Travis Snell Staff Writer Oklahoma Gov. Brad Henry and U.S. Rep. Dan Boren inspect a damaged home in Twin Oaks during their tour of storm-ravaged Delaware County. (Photo by Bryan Pollard) INSIDE News Council In Memoriam Health Pg. 1 Pg. 6 Pg. 14 Pg. 16 Sports Education Arts & Culture Opinion Classifieds Voter Registration Pg. 20 Pg. 26 Pg. 29 Pg. 33 Pg. 34 Pg. 35 TWIN OAKS, Okla. – About 40 homes were destroyed and an another 30 homes and five businesses were damaged when a tornado swept through northern Cherokee and southern Delaware counties around 9:10 p.m. on March 13. With winds speeds of more than 115 miles per hour, the tornado touched down near Peggs in northern Cherokee County before moving north to Leach in southern Delaware County and traveling east along U.S. 412 to Twin Oaks. It shifted northeast toward Colcord before crossing into Benton County, Ark. Gary Metcalf of the Delaware County Emergency Management Team said the tornado left a damage path 25 miles long and up to a mile wide in some areas. He said the tornado stayed on the ground for about 30 minutes. Emergency management officials said at least 10 people were injured, mostly from cuts and bruises. However, Bill Sooter of Colcord’s EMT said a Colcord girl received a broken nose. Officials also said two missing teenage boys were found safe. Metcalf said crews were marking houses with spray paint as they checked them for injured people. Damage assessments were still being conducted to determine if the area qualified for federal aid and Gov. Brad Henry declared the county a state of emer- gency, the first step toward receiving federal aid. Henry toured some of the damaged areas with U.S. Rep. Dan Boren and Principal Chief Chad Smith on March 17. Leach, Twin Oaks and Colcord received most of the damage. Many mobile homes, barns and outbuildings were flattened or knocked off their foundations. Roofs were blown off houses and windows knocked out. Grounded trees, telephone and electric poles were strewn about on roads, fields, homes and vehicles as county residents, emergency responders, volunteers and electrical crews worked to clean the damage. In Twin Oaks, eight chicken houses located near the Cherokee Turnpike were leveled as was a house about 100 yards away. The community’s post office roof was lifted off and landed intact nearby. The turnpike and many county roads were closed because of downed power lines. Turnpike traffic was detoured parallel to the turnpike on Scenic U.S. 412. About 3,000 customers were without power for nearly 48 hours, Northeast Oklahoma Electric Cooperative officials said. The tornado was part of a series of severe storms that moved through northeast Oklahoma. Reports show more than 100 twisters touched down in the March 11-13 weekend across five states from Oklahoma to Illinois. Immediately after the tornado, county, See Tornado Page 8. PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID TULSA OK PERMIT #2146 2 CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006 Freedmen win citizenship rights By Gregg Simmons Staff Writer TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Cherokee Freedmen will now be able to enroll as citizens of the Cherokee Nation after a March 7 decision from the Judicial Appeals Tribunal. The court ruled that the Cherokee Nation law requiring citizens to trace their ancestry to a person on the Dawes Roll with Cherokee, Shawnee or Delaware blood was unconstitutional. The ruling means that the tribe’s citizenship roll is now open to the descendants of Freedmen who were included in the Dawes Rolls of the Five Civilized Tribes. “In holding that Freedmen descendants are entitled to be citizens of the Cherokee Nation, our supreme court, the JAT, … reversed its earlier decision in the Riggs case in which it had reached the opposite decision,” Diane Hammons, CN general counsel, said. “Although the 1975 Constitution makes no specific mention of Freedmen descendants, the court ruled that they were included in the wording ‘by reference to the Dawes Commission Rolls,’ and that if the 1975 framers intended to exclude the Freedmen descendants, they would have more explicitly stated.” The CN Registration Office will fully implement the orders of the court, officials said. Freedmen descendants who can show proof of an ancestor on the CN Freedmen Roll are eligible for citizenship. “We are a strong tripartite government that respects the rule of law,” Hammons said. “Our court has announced its decision, and we accept that as the law of the land.” Some believe the decision could include descendants of inter-married whites that are also listed on the Dawes Rolls, but Hammons disagrees. “Based upon the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in the Redbird case that there were very few inter-married whites entitled to citizenship in the Cherokee Nation, and that all such rights ceased in 1877, taken together with the 19th century Cherokee laws restricting the rights of inter-married whites, we believe that there is, in all practicality, no application of the JAT’s freedmen decision to any of the descendants of intermarried white citizens of the 19th century.” With 4,982 Cherokee Freedmen listed on the Dawes Rolls it is unknown how many of their descendants exist today. Melanie Knight, CN executive officer, said because E LV I S L I V E S ! Starring Kraig Parker and the Royal Tribute Band Join us at the GRAND OPENING of The VICTORIAN THEATER on the 300 Block of East Main St. in Pawhuska, Oklahoma May 19th and 20th. What could be better than an evening with Elvis? An evening with Elvis and a steak dinner for one low price! This is a LasVegas style show, and you will believe that ELVIS LIVES! Seating at 6:00 PM, concert starts at 7:00 PM For tickets: www.victoriantheater.net or call 918-287-7161 To order tickets by mail, fill out and send this coupon in an envelope to: Ticket price $49.99 + $4.25 tax + $2.00 S/H TOTAL PRICE PER TICKET: $56.24 Includes Live Concert and Steak Dinner The Victorian P.O. Box 777 Pawhuska, OK 74056 Name: Mailing Address: City/State/Zip: Number of tickets requested Smoking/non-smoking (circle one) Friday 19th or Saturday 20th (circle one) E-mail: (A fully glass-enclosed dining area where smoking is permitted is available) Please Make Checks or Money Orders Payable To: The Victorian Theater of the unknown number it will be difficult to know how the JAT’s decision will impact programs and services. “It would require a lot from the (Cherokee) Nation to make sure the court’s decision is carried out properly,” she said.“Obviously what the court says we will do, but it’s hard to guess what the impact will be on operations.” Knight said just because the CN’s enrollment numbers rise doesn’t mean there is an increase in federal funding. “I think everybody assumes there is an automatic tie,” she said. “There is an indirect tie certainly. At some point in time when funding was provided, the numbers were certainly considered. In my lifetime however, it’s been historic amounts appropriated that drive future appropriations more so than citizenship numbers. I think in all practical terms it does not necessarily translate into money and that’s unfortunate.” Lela Ummerteskee, CN registar, said currently the Registration Office is backlogged so those applying for citizenship should expect a wait of seven months or longer. Application packets and a list of required documentation are available at www.cherokee.org or at the Registration Office. [email protected] • (918) 453-5351 a/zmb dbGY9 uncSqf9 Ewf aBl un8wdsdi clQ, ogl$N a/znb nsf a/Ewf #j/n<e dbGY9i el~ #ZP]d bSsd apl iz\nls4d Ewf aBl n a/szT gl?fp #0qtm \gkwdx d0qdsf #ncIlcsdi. #ncIlcsd jXqtm Ewf aBl dKZQrsd u/H apl Gf #/gxlb bgSstm n 49 a/Ewf, Shawnee a> Delaware u/fg ^ nsf BbSi. hiZ #0qtm a/Ewf apk qPl ulsjic nsf #/gxlb u/:ystm n 49 bgSsr nsf hsf i=nc> uncmTAm a/xWyi. Gj//xS n dbGY9 nsf un8wdsdi Ewf aBl, \gkwdx d0qdsf #ncIlcsd jmqtp Riggs E/Il4L and6 u/Rmstpi. Diane Hammons, Ewf aBl u/KH dTYhh urpi. upwfZ pwrisq#F glQsqh hsf u[TxAd9 gJsrd uZPwm ^ IKpisdsb dbGY9i #/gxlbi, dcIlcsd up} bg:ys4d qPk nsf amdsb bgSsri, i=Z Dpwjisqh#F glQsq hsf u[TxAd9 #ZPwm 0njlszn IbS #nSs4d osc gqCsd I0mp> uZPki. Ewf aBl #nSsdi a/yv Kl r/sc\[R #ncIlcsd j0qtmi. a/znb dbGY9 z/b9 iz\md #/gxlb Ewf aBl dbGY9 bgSsr IdqPw el~ z\n8>dsd. u^/fc 5i dsql \G/ ig4<9 4qh= dKn\rsd [fHi, adsz Hammons. #ncBlcsd i=sd j9qtm a> [gc/k; dKn\dsd i[Hi. igc uZh= j0qtm Ir:ysc a/Ypg #/ymc G[qPw n bgSsri aSZ Hammons ^ sf I/gPa Bla. cwRt/ a%IC \gkwdx #ncIlcsd #mqtm 4#\ (Redbird) EGIl4> nsf a/gYC c/y/sb a/Ypf n dz\n4P]d b9 nsf Ewf aBl apl i=ls4di, a> nsf /gc ulsjp pwjisqh#F glQsqgl?f u[TxQAd9i, Ewf #Kn\rsd asjm bS #/ymd a/Ypg, oqh=Z /gvi ^ #/KlRDd nsf gkwd d0qdsf #ncIlcsd #0qtm a/znb dbGy9 #/gxlb a/Ypg apl n Dpwj isqh#F u[Txh. mf iygxl DpwsQ plsq tl a/Ewf a/znb dbGYR [qPw n 49 bgSsri Z~Z ^ =nmt ig #/gxlb apH qh b9i. Melanie Knight, urp /gmr/ b9 mcgls4d u5Ss[sd igmc i=ls4d nsf glwd d0qdsf #0qtm /4czpl9 xW c/s[lszi. u5aSd i=nrd /glsd Ewf aBl #ncIlcsd j0qtm j=qd i=nrd urp aby. aSsfZ #ncIlcsd 0/W9 /cYErpl aSZ scI a[]Uhsd /dglst/9 xW c/s[lsz Knight 0PSi. Ewf aBl apk alAlcm ^sf/Z IrlAlc/ \Gn ifs[lszi. ax /blsz nsf /gd nsf nplsq jnwRri urp abx. aSsf ^ nsf u\A IcwRdU. iki< Gb9 a[w ancp<sz cSstm 4h= dgSstm b9i. mrzQ[m 0sr jnc/xtm ig u/y4k vsf dwRtm j/y4C Rm apk dSsd cwRdszi. ^ /gc a[w iglsdsf Ibla. Lela Ummerteskee Ewf aBl dShh 0PS Z~ b9 o/ ani f] i=jl u8wdsdi gl?f iymc a> yqhw~ u/gTTsd If. drmistm dKlRDd a> dqPw i=sd KZhsd IG\t www.cherokee.org a> aU/ #nSsd a/yvi. Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006 CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 3 Trail of Tears segment commemorated in Arkansas By Travis Snell Staff Writer PEA RIDGE NATIONAL MILITARY PARK, Ark. – The Cherokee Nation, the National Trail of Tears Association and its Midwest Region Chapter along with the National Park Service commemorated a two-mile segment of the Trail of Tears March 11 at the Pea Ridge National Military Park. The afternoon ceremony began under an overcast sky with the Cherokee National Color Guard posting the U.S., tribal and the Prisoner of War/Missing in Action flags and was followed by the Cherokee Adult Choir singing the national anthem. John Scott, park superintendent; Jack D. Baker, president of the NTTA; and Ernie Quintana, the TTA’s Midwest Region Chapter director, welcomed the crowd of nearly 100 and introduced the attending local, state and tribal dignitaries. “Today, we honor the memory of thousands of Cherokee people who passed through here by dedicating this segment of the northern route of the Trail of Tears,” Quintana said referring to the approximately 12,000 Cherokee citizens who traveled the area 168 years ago. “The Trail of Tears National Historic Trail commemorates the tragic and sorrowful experience of the Cherokee people who were forcibly removed from their homelands in the southeastern United States by the United States government in 1838 and 1839.” Quintana said in 1987 Congress dedicated the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail that covers approximately 2,200 miles of land and water routes. Troy Wayne Poteete Pea Ridge’s refurbished two-mile segment is now part of the national historic trail. An emotional Troy Wayne Poteete, a former Tribal Councilor, then spoke of the significance of why Cherokees should remember and honor the Trail. “They (Cherokee ancestors) were victims of the American settlers’ lust for property and land … of Andrew Jackson’s lust for power. They did suffer a horrible holocaust because they put too much faith in the rule of law, too much faith in the Americans’ institutions,” he said. “But as a people, when we look at this Trail of Tears generation, we don’t remember or perpetuate that victimization … to ourselves. We study the Trail of Tears and we commemorate it and think about it so we can learn lessons from that history that we can apply, collectively as a people and a nation.” Miss Cherokee LaShawna Fields followed with comments CHEROKEE TOURS April • May • June - Schedule Now Cherokee Travel Minta Keys & Betsy Hoffmeier Telephone/Fax (918) 494-4721 on the amount of self-confidence Cherokees, who were ment and bring about forced to march the trail, must have had to journey from its dedication into the their eastern homelands to Indian Territory. national historic trail. Fields was followed by the adult choir singing “One Drop He spoke about the of Blood” before Principal Chief Chad Smith spoke to the ground from a crowd about having an automatic and spiritual understand- metaphorical stance ing from being on the trail. rather than a historical “It’s an odd feeling, but it’s a very real and sincere feeling. one. That's what we have here today knowing that the grounds “We gather with the behind us were the grounds that our ancestors walked so descendants of some of many years ago,” he said. the Cherokees whose Chief Smith went on to speak about the irony the feet, whose wagons and grounds presented. Twenty five years after the Removal, whose animal hooves Cherokees returned to the grounds to fight for both sides helped carve this road in the American Civil War. He spoke of an “outrage” raised into the face of the by Northern newspapers during the Civil War concerning earth, let us hope that Cherokees scalping Union soldiers and wondered why anyone who walks on Northerners got so upset. this road recognizes it Dr. Dan Littlefield “Why would people get so upset, when our people, who for what it is – a symjust 20 years before had been betrayed by the federal govbol of strength and endurance of the Cherokee people that ernment?” he said. He spoke of the modern-day irony also, brought them past their Trail of Tears to a new place and how American Indians still fight for the U.S. military at a there rebuild their lives,” he said. “Let us hope they recoghigher per capita rate than any other race. “And today, we nize this road as a link between the past and the present – a can look at the irony of all these grounds … because the physical link between the Cherokee people of time in Cherokee Nation has had seven of our citizens die in the memorial and the citizens of the great sovereign Cherokee Middle East in the last three years serving the United States Nation of today.” government.” The choir then led the crowd in singing “Amazing Grace” He also remarked on the tribe’s accomplishments since before the Color Guard retired the colors. Chief Smith and the Trail, such as the CN’s Golden Age, its sophisticated Deputy Chief Joe Grayson closed the ceremony by leading government, its adult and youth choirs and the success of the audience on a commemorative walk on the newly dediSequoyah High School and its athletic programs. cated trail. “Even though this was a ground of misery, apprehension [email protected] • (918) 453-5358 and despair … we as a Cherokee people have a great legacy. And that legacy is this: we face adversity, and we survive, adapt, prosper and excel.” Smith’s comments were followed by the choir singing “Orphan Song.” Afterwards, the group of dignitaries dedicated the wayside markers and artwork created by Cherokee artist Sam WattsScott. The wayside markers, which feature Watts-Scott's artwork, will be posted on the trail to inform visitors of the historical significance. The choir then performed “God’s Children” before giving way to Dr. Dan Littlefield, director of the American Native Press Archives, Sequoyah Research Center at the University of Arkansas in Little Rock, who Deputy Chief Joe Grayson and Principal Chief Chad Smith lead the audience on a commemhelped research the trail seg- orative walk down the newly dedicated section of the Trail. (Photos by Lisa Hicks) • Day tours to Cherokee Nation historic sites • Places where “Indian Territory” was made • Homes and final resting places of prominent leaders • Let us customize a tour for your group: Senior citizens, reunions, museums, etc. Credit Card Debt? Stop creditors from calling Lower your monthly payments $ Reduce or eliminate interest Free information packet! Call or Visit: Family Life Credit Services Dana Crouch, Certified Credit Counselor (918) 253-8069 • 523 Main • Jay, OK 74346 With God all things are possible. Matthew 19:26 4 CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 April 2006 Vo l . X X X , N o . 4 Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006 Tribal officials angry over transportation bill Dan Agent Editor ( C h e ro k e e / C h o c t aw ) B r y a n Po l l a r d Assistant Editor ( C h e ro k e e ) Trav i s S n el l Staff Writer ( C h e ro k e e ) Gregg Simmons Staff Writer ( C h e ro k e e ) Lisa Hicks Advertising & Graphics ( C h e ro k e e ) D e n a Tu c k e r A d m i n i s t r at i v e A s s i s t a n t ( C h e ro k e e ) Joy R e e d Secretary ( C h e ro k e e ) Editorial Advisory Board George Benge (Cherokee) John Shurr (Cherokee) G e r a l d Wo f f o r d (Cherokee) Cherokee Phoenix P. O. B o x 9 4 8 Ta h l e q u a h , O K 7 4 4 6 5 (918) 453-5269 FA X : ( 9 1 8 ) 4 5 8 - 6 1 3 6 1-800-256-0671 www.cherokeephoenix.org C I R C U L AT I O N 60,000 Oklahoma 9 7 , 0 0 0 Wo r l d W i d e ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTIONS $15 ($12.75 senior citizens age 55 or older) in Okla. $20 ($16 senior citizens age 55 or older) in the U.S. $ 2 5 Inter national the proper place for the amendment to be debated, but because Inhofe chairs the Senate’s Transportation and Works TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Principal Chief Committee, he has the power to slip the Chad Smith has a bitter taste in his mouth rider in the bill without any discussion. when discussing a rider that was attached to “It was really a midnight rider,” Smith the Transportation Reauthorization Bill said. “It avoided all the process of good poliPresident Bush signed into law in 2005. cy and legislative development. Inhofe was The rider is a blatant attack on tribal sov- friendly to us with the roads part of the bill. ereignty by Oklahoma Sen. Jim Inhofe, RWe worked with his office and got some Okla., and the Oklahoma Independent good things for roads, but the rider was a Petroleum Association, Smith said. slap in the face and a stick in the eye.” Attached at the OIPA’s urging, the rider Smith said Cherokee Nation had an envistrips Oklahoma’s tribes of their “same-asronmental application similar to the state” status with environmental issues on Pawnees pending at the time of the transtrust land unless Oklahoma officials conportation bill’s passage. sent to it. Smith said CN’s application to oversee “On its face, it suggests that it’s promoting environmental issues on its 160,000 acres is some kind of cooperation between the still pending. He said tribes can still develop tribes and states. But the actual impact of it environmental regulations for their respecis it transfers jurisdiction over Indian tive trust lands, but enforcing them is the Country for environmental purposes to the issue. The EPA still has to interpret the rule state and prohibits the tribes from exercisalong with many unanswered questions ing same-as-state status without state conraised by the rider. sent. Both are extremely impingent upon The OIPA asked Inhofe to add the rider our sovereignty. It’s the most blatant attack because it feared the state’s 38 tribes would in modern times. It takes jurisdiction over impose separate and stricter environmental our lands away,” Smith said. rules on trust lands, Smith said. Inhofe attached the rider to the bill sever“His (Inhofe) official stance was that it al months after the Environmental was good for Oklahoma, but he acknowlProtection Agency approved the Pawnee edged that the OIPA and the oil and gas Tribe’s application to administer certain industry asked him to do what he did. It’s environmental programs on trust land. obvious that he has a political kinship to Smith said he believes the rider affected the them,” Smith said. “The fear, which we Pawnees’ application because it was in an believe is unfounded fear, promoted by the appeal process at the time of bill’s signing. oil and gas industry is that the tribes would The rider also bypassed the Senate Indian have 38 regulatory schemes making it diffiAffairs Committee, which would have been cult for the oil and gas industry and other By Travis Snell Staff Writer businesses to work with Indian Country, and that premise is patently false. To alleviate that fear (CN Environmental Program Administrator) Jeaninne Hale and a consortium of tribes are developing a uniform tribal environmental code.” Smith said tribes have no interest in scaring off businesses or the oil and gas industry because tribes have an interest in promoting royalties for landowners and themselves. “It was an irrational effort by the oil and gas industry to curtail tribal regulation of their lands,” he said. “If the oil and gas industry had a little bit further foresight, the tribes were in position to help the oil and gas industry to streamline regulatory obstacles. Instead they took a very adverse and hostile position.” Chief Smith said the tribe has met with Inhofe and he agreed to meet with all concerned parties to see if there could be reconciliation. Mike Miller, CN communications officer, said CN citizens should consider how politicians treat the tribes when they vote in state and national elections, and Smith urged citizens of all state tribes to write Inhofe and other Oklahoma delegates in hope of changing the law. “One intelligent straight-forward letter with no hyperbole has a lot of impact. If you get one, it makes you wonder. If you get five, it makes you nervous, and if you get 15, you pay attention to them,” Smith said. [email protected] • (918) 453-5358 Inquiries or change of address please contact c u s t o m e r s e r v i c e at n u m b e r a b ov e. Published monthly by the Cherokee Nation with offices at the W.W. Keeler Tribal Complex, Tahlequah, Okla. Mail subscriptions and changes of address to the Cherokee Phoenix, P.O. Box 948, Tahlequah, OK 74465, phone (918) 453-5269. Please include the words “Change of Address” or “Subscription” on the envelope. Back Issues may be purchased for $2.50 postage and handling. Please inquire to make sure the issues are in stock by writing to Back Issues, Cherokee Phoenix, P.O. Box 948, Tahlequah, OK 74465; or calling (918) 4535269. Copyright 2006: The entire contents of the Cherokee Phoenix are fully protected by copyright unless otherwise noted and may be reproduced if the copyright is noted and credit is given to the Cherokee Phoenix, the writer and the photographer. Requests to reprint should be directed to the editor at the above address. Material provided through membership with Associated Press NewsFinder, identified by (AP), may not be reproduced without permission of the Associated Press. Contact: Sen. Jim Inhofe 453 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510-3603 Phone: (202) 224-4721 Fax: (202) 228-0380 http://inhofe.senate.gov Sen. Tom Coburn 172 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 Phone: (202) 224-5754 Fax: (202) 224-6008 http://coburn.senate.gov Oklahoma’s 1st District Rep. John Sullivan 114 Cannon House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-2211 • Fax:(202) 225-9187 http://sullivan.house.gov Oklahoma’s 2nd District Rep. Dan Boren 216 Cannon House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-2701 • Fax: (202) 225-3038 http://www.house.gov/boren Oklahoma’s 3rd District Rep. Frank Lucas 2342 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-5565 • Fax: (202) 225-8698 http://www.house.gov/lucas/zipauth.htm Oklahoma’s 4th District Rep. Tom Cole 236 Cannon House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-6165 Fax: (202) 225-3512 http://www.house.gov/cole/contact.htm Oklahoma’s 5th District Rep. Ernest Istook 2404 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-2132 Fax: (202) 226-1463 http://www.house.gov/istook/contact/ Unsolicited Manuscripts and Photos: We will not accept responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or photos, nor responsibility for the publication and return of such material. Please query by telephone or mail before sending copy and/or photos. Tune in to hear the Cherokee Nation Member Winner of the Native American Journalists Association’s first place award for General Excellence. Radio Hour Hosted by Dennis Sixkiller Oklahoma Press Association Native American Journalists Association Every Wednesday from 5p.m. to 6p.m. on AM 1350 KTLQ Every Sunday 8 a.m. - 9 a.m. on FM 101.7 KEOK & Noon - 1p.m. on AM 1350 KTLQ Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006 CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 Tar Creek metals reach Grand Lake NORMAN, Okla. (AP) – Heavy metals from the Tar Creek Superfund site and other former mining areas are reaching the entrance of Grand Lake during high flows on its feeder rivers, according to a study discussed at a meeting of geologists in March. Lead and zinc levels in the Neosho and Spring rivers varied wildly in samples taken during rains at the point where the rivers converge into the recreational lake near Wyandotte, Okla., U.S. Geological Survey hydrologist Kelli DeHay said. In most samples, lead levels were too low to report. But during some high flows in 2004 and 2005, zinc levels jumped to as much as 100 tons of zinc per day in both rivers and seven tons of lead per day on the Spring River, she said. USGS officials did not know how the levels of lead and zinc reaching the lake’s entrance compare with loads on water bodies of similar size. More study of bed sediments also is needed to determine how far the metals might be carried into the lake, DeHay said. Giant piles of mining waste and open mine shafts dot the former Tri-State Mining District drained by the GrandNeosho River Basin, raising the potential for metal contamination. The study focused only on high-flow events in which runoff was likely. The state Department of Environmental Quality has been studying metal concentrations on the headwaters during normal flows. The USGS study, which has not been published, was discussed at a regional meeting of the Geological Society of America during a forum on the host of problems plaguing the Superfund site. The government has spent more than $150 million since 1983 to address problems in the 42-square-mile site, one of the oldest Superfund sites in the country. Tainted water, open mine shafts, lead-contaminated soil and cave-ins are all potential hazards to the people who live there. A report by a team of scientists assembled by Sen. Jim Inhofe, R-Okla., identified 286 undermined areas threatened by collapse, including a park and school playground in Picher, Okla. A closer look at 133 of those sites found the probability of collapse at about 117 of them to be 20 percent or less, said Jim Martell, who served on the team for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Sixteen had a greater than 20 percent probability of collapse. Inhofe, who is chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, said after the report’s release that some relocation of Picher and Cardin residents might be necessary. 5 Natural Resources staff fights fires residential area. The team thought they had time to set up and could save the structures quickly, but the fire spread TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Drought-like across a field in a matter of seconds. conditions, warm weather and high winds “We did what we could for the first have some Cherokee Nation employees trailer which wasn’t much because in 15 working overtime. Outbreaks of fire seconds we didn’t have time to develop throughout the state have kept members much of a plan for it,” Gipson said. of CN Natural Resources busy saving “Fortunately in was an abandoned trailer homes and lives. that had been stripped and no one was Pat Gwin, Natural Resources supervisor, residing in it.” and two members of his team, Simeon Although the trailer was destroyed, the Gipson and David Rabon, have worked team was able to save the structures peomany hours fighting fires in Oklahoma. ple were residing in. “We’ve been working an average of six Gwin said there are many things people days a week for the last three months,” can do to prevent fires. Gipson said. “Sometimes we work seven “Any type of burning just has to be curdays a week, but we have to get some rest tailed,” he said. “A lot of times people don’t some time.” realize that welding is burning and that They were putting in 16 to 20 hours per grinding can start fires.” day and are on call 24 hours a day. Gwin He said cigarettes are also a major consaid the team has missed holidays, birthsideration. days and other family celebrations. “Cigarettes generally don’t start forest “Things have kind of slowed down fires,” Gwin said. “However, we have from a month ago,” Gipson said. “I think evolved into such a drought condition because so much has burned the fires with our vegetation having such low don’t have anywhere to go now.” moisture content, the weather being so The team has been assisting the warm and the winds being so high that Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, they actually will start fires right now. Just Food and Forestry and has been disa single spark can start a fire and you patched in many areas of the state, but usually don’t see that.” has helped with fires locally as well. A state-wide burn ban has been in When a fire broke out near the Stokes effect since November and was amended Ceremonial Ground in Sequoyah County in January to include campfires, welding they were dispatched to the area. and other activities. “When we pulled up on scene, the fire For more information visit was on one side of the road and it had www.oda.state.ok.us/redflag/forred.html. just jumped the road,” Gipson said. He said the fire was heading toward a [email protected] • (918) 453-5351 By Gregg Simmons Staff Writer Practice Cherokee - Basics 4 n c q Hi 4 c c q Hi Doh - nah - dah - goh - hv - ee Doh - dah - dah - goh - hv - ee Goodbye (singular) Goodbye (plural) HUD-184 Native American Mortgage Program* Need Cash Refinance* Other programs also available • 100% financing / no money down* Good credit or bad credit, we can help. Special Native American Financing Department Bilingual. Call today to qualify. Ask for a 184 Loan Officer. * W.A.C. Office: (918) 456-5599 Cell: (918) 348-1074 Toll Free 1-800-259-2455 6 CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006 Council limits retail-to-retail tobacco sales Cherokee Nation Tribal Council (918) 207-3900 or 1-800-995-9465 Linda Hughes O’Leary • [email protected] Melvina Shotpouch • [email protected] District 6 – Mayes • Mayes County District 1 – Cherokee • Cherokee County Meridith Frailey • [email protected] Bill John Baker • [email protected] Johnny Keener • [email protected] Audra Smoke-Conner • [email protected] By Travis Snell District 2 - Trail of Tears • Adair County District 7 – Will Rogers • Rogers County Staff Writer S. Joe Crittenden • [email protected] Cara Cowan • [email protected] amended “Tobacco Tax” law also creates a fund not to exceed $1 million to make loans available to tobacco retailers who are TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – The Tribal adversely affected. The law states that CN Council amended the Cherokee Nation’s will be repaid for such loans through the “Tobacco Tax” law to establish a surtax on rebate amount the OTC sends to the tribe. retail-to-retail sales in order to limit them Also at the meeting, councilors unaniand to reduce smoking rates within the mously sent a lobbying-related act back to tribe’s jurisdiction at its March 13 meeting. its Rules Committee to better define lobbyEleven of the 13 councilors present at the ing and lobbyist. meeting voted to amend the law. Dist 3 The act known as the Corporation Councilor (Adair County) David Thornton Lobbying Act of 2006 would have amended and Dist. 6 Councilor (Mayes County) a related act passed in 1996 by requiring Johnny Keener voted against the amendCN-owned corporations to acquire approval ment citing the surtax would drive smaller from the council before obtaining lobbying CN-licensed smoke shops located near bor- services. der smoke shops out of business. Councilors also unanimously amended According to the act, the surtax is intend- the tribe’s fiscal year 2006 budget by adding ed to reduce smoking rates in order to more than $2 million for a total budget lower overall CN health care costs, and rev- authority to $345 million. enues from the surtax will be earmarked for The amendment added $1.8 million to diabetes and cancer programs. the General Fund to fund new initiatives Thornton said one reason he voted and government projects and $101,300 to against the act is because he doesn’t know the Self-Governance Fund to subsidize the how revenues would be spent. tribe’s Johnson-O’Malley Program. It also “I haven’t really understood whether this added $92,023 to the Native American money is for our (existing) clinics or to Housing Assistance and Self-Determination build a diabetes clinic. It’s not real clear in Act Fund for carryover spending of certain there, and I certainly want to keep that activities contained in CN’s 2005 Indian money in the Cherokee Nation.” Housing Plan and $55,000 to the Motor However, the bigger issue for Thornton is Fuels Tax Fund for carryover spending of the limiting of retail-to-retail sales. the Veterans Office’s Warrior Memorial When the state government abandoned prior year’s funding. the tobacco compact with CN in 2005, In a time-saving move, 12 councilors many Indian smoke shops bought less voted to approved Wathene Young, Jim expensive cigarettes from smoke shops Carson, William Grass and Tammy Keeterlocated near state lines to resell them in a Miller to the Cherokee Nation Industries higher-tax market to maintain a price board of directors. Dist. 1 (Cherokee advantage over corporate tobacco retailers. County) Tribal Councilor Audra SmokeThe Oklahoma Tax Commission has also Connor abstained from the vote because adopted rules to eliminate retail-to-retail she works for Young. sales. The council also unanimously passed: CN councilors voted to apply the new a resolution authorizing the Bureau of surtax on retail-to-retail cigarette transacIndian Affairs to update CN’s inventory of tions if the tribally licensed retailer is selling Indian reservation roads, to other tribal retailers within the CN. The a resolution allowing CN’s Department new surtax will add 15 cents for each pack- of Children, Youth and Family Services to age of cigarettes and $1.50 on each carton. apply for $150,000 in transitional living In order to help prevent some smoke services from the U.S. Family and Youth shops from going out of business, the Services Bureau for runaway and homeless youth, a resolution authorizing the adminisTribal Council meetings are tration to seek $500,000 in funds from the held at 6 p.m., the second U.S. Department of Health and Human Monday of each month in the Services for the operation of the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), Tribal Council Chambers of the which aims to provide elders economic and W.W Keeler Tribal Complex. social self-sufficiency via community-based Meetings can be viewed live on organizations, the Cherokee Nation Web site at www.cherokee.org. a resolution endorsing a self-governance compact with the HHS and the Indian Health Service, which allows the Jackie Bob Martin • [email protected] District 3 - Sequoyah • Sequoyah County David W. Thornton Sr. • [email protected] Phyllis Yargee • [email protected] District 4 – Three Rivers McIntosh, Muskogee & Wagoner Counties District 8 – Tulsa • Washington County Buel Anglen • [email protected] Bill Johnson • [email protected] District 9 – Craig • Craig & Nowata Counties Charles “Chuck” Hoskin • [email protected] Don Garvin • [email protected] District 5 – Delaware • Delaware & Ottawa Counties tribe to enter annual funding agreements with the IHS, a resolution authorizing a proposal to the Administration for Native Americans to seek funding to help save the Loyal Shawnee language from extinction, resolutions allowing right-of-way easements over tribal trust land in Adair County to allow tribal citizens use of a road and in Delaware County between the tribe and Northeast Oklahoma Electric Cooperative for an electricity distribution line, resolutions approving an oil and gas lease on tribal fee land in Red River County, Texas to Bartlett Resources for five years with a royalty rate of 16.67 percent and a sand and gravel lease on the Arkansas Riverbed to Arkhola Sand and Gravel Company in Fort Smith, Ark., for five years with a royalty rate of 20 cents per ton for sand and 25 cents per ton for gravel, a resolution allowing CN’s Environmental Programs to apply to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for funding to establish a water program council to raise awareness on health-related issues in tribal communities and on aquatic resources and watersheds, a resolution allowing Environmental Programs to apply to the EPA for a tribal solid waste management assistance grant. tutional question to determine citizenship and especially whether to exclude Freedmen… may be placed on the next general election ballot by a referendum petition or by a constitutional question authorized by resolution of the council.” Smith said many Cherokees believe that Cherokee voters in 1975 understood that voting to approve the 1975 Constitution would exclude Freedmen from citizenship. He said other Cherokees believe that citizenship should include the five culture/ethnic groups such as they were before Oklahoma statehood – Cherokees by blood, Delawares by blood, Shawnees by blood, inter-married whites and Freedmen. But regardless of one’s viewpoint, Smith said, the decision re-enforces the principle that the CN is the same constitutional government formed in 1839. “It properly destroys the falsehood that there is a new Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma created in 1975 and an older Cherokee Nation with a constitution dated in 1839,” he said. “There is only one constitutional government of the Cherokee people since 1839 and that simply is Cherokee Nation.” Smith also honored Air Force veteran Dennis Groundhog Ogan as the month’s sole veteran honoree. Born near Stilwell in 1917, Ogan joined the Air Force in 1941 In his State of the Nation address, after graduating Sequoyah Orphans Principal Chief Chad Smith spoke about the Training School (now Sequoyah High Judicial Appeals Tribunal’s March 7 ruling School) and attending Bacone Junior in the case of Lucy Allen vs. CN Tribal College in Muskogee. He served in World Council, where the JAT ruled that descenWar II in the Pacific Ocean Theater as an dants of Cherokee Freedmen on the Dawes administrative and technical inspector. Rolls could enroll as CN citizens. The ruling Ogan was honorably discharged from states that the 1975 Constitution wasn’t active duty in 1948 and worked for the BIA clear enough when Cherokees voted by a for 35 years before retiring. He currently ratio of 6-to-1 to exclude Freedmen, he said. lives in Oregon with his wife Katherine. His Smith said CN voters would probably niece Toxie Hamilton accepted a plaque in have the opportunity to vote in 2007’s tribal his honor. elections to see if the Freedmen descendants would remain citizens of the tribe. Smith also honored the SHS basketball “The issue at hand is what classes of peo- teams for making it to the Class 3A state ple should be citizens of the Cherokee playoffs for the 2005-06 season and introNation, and who should make that decision, duced SHS girls basketball coach Bill the courts or the Cherokee people themNobles, who coached the Lady Indians to selves,” he said. “The process to decide the their second straight state title. issue of Freedmen citizenship is a constitutional amendment at the polls. The [email protected] • (918) 453-5358 Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006 CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 Tribes to negotiate recognition By Gregg Simmons Staff Writer TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Representatives from the Cherokee Nation and the Delaware Tribe of Indians met Jan. 18 to discuss strategies to help the Delaware regain federal recognition. Melanie Knight, CN executive officer, said the purpose of the meeting was to find the interests of each party so they can work on the terms on an agreement. In February 2005, the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled the Delaware were not a federally recognized tribe. The Federally Recognized Indian Tribe List Act of 1994 provides Indian tribes may be recognized by an act of Congress, the administrative procedures set forth in Part 83 of the Code of Federal Regulation or a decision of a U.S. Court. Since 1866, when both tribes signed treaties with the U.S., each has repeatedly been in the courts to interpret the treaty incorporating the Delaware into the Cherokee Nation. Knight said since 1996 hundreds of thousands of dollars had been spent on attorney fees surrounding this issue. In 1866, the U.S. agreed to a treaty with the Delaware for the sale of lands in Kansas in exchange for removal to Indian Territory. They were guaranteed rights to participate in any general council or territorial government and peaceable possession. The treaty also allowed for two pay- ments, one for the preservation of their tribal laws, customs and usages not inconsistent with those of the CN and a second payment to settle within the Cherokee territory and become native Cherokees. “We entered into this agreement in 1866 that now we may be agreeing to somewhat modify,” Knight said. “I think both parties are open to negotiating that and seeing what the agreement looks like while at the same time making sure that their own interests are protected.” When an agreement between the tribes is reached, the CN would consent to jointly seek congressional approval. The two tribes have already found some common interests and are developing positions on a number of issues before they meet again to begin negotiating the terms of the agreement. “Where it presents some difficulties is that when we made the agreement in 1866 it was for the Delaware to come live in Cherokee Nation,” she said. “So they have made their home here, and now it presents some challenges with regard to programs that operate based on a geographic representation.” Knight said the CN is negotiating with an open mind. “I think we are going to be able to identify those areas where we readily agree and we can set those items aside and concentrate on the items that are going to take more work.” [email protected] • (918) 453-5351 Attention Readers Due to increased costs of printing and mailing the Cherokee Phoenix to more than 90,000 Cherokee households, we must downsize our free mailing list. Beginning with the June 2006 issue, the Cherokee Phoenix will only be mailed to registered Cherokee voters and those households that contact us via letter, post card, phone or email and request to remain on the mailing list. Paid subscribers and each household with one registered voter residing within that household will not be affected. All others will be deleted from the list. Readers who wish to remain on the list may clip the form below and mail it to us, send an email to [email protected], call us at (918) 453-5269, or register to vote in tribal elections with the Cherokee Election Commission by mailing in the form provided on page 35 of this issue. You must respond by May 1 to continue to receive your free copy. Name: Mailing Address: City/State/Zip: Phone: Cherokee Citizen Number: (from blue citizenship card) Mail to: Cherokee Phoenix Mailing List, P.O. Box 948, Tahlequah, OK 74465-0948 7 8 CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006 Native roots run deep at annual symposium By Travis Snell Staff Writer TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Northeastern State University will feature four days of scholars, authors, artists and cultural activities April 5-8 at its 34th annual Symposium of the American Indian: Native Roots Run Deep. Dr. Phyllis Fife, director of NSU’s Center for Tribal Studies, said the symposium’s organizers are excited about this year’s lineup. “This year, for the first time, I think our electronic communication is working well for us in getting the word out and we’ve gotten a lot of response from people all over. We do expect to have a nice symposium and we got some good speakers lined up as well as a good variety of topics.” She said the theme – Native Roots Run Deep – refers to the fact that an Indian nation can be found when traveling from border to border in Oklahoma because many tribes from all over the United States were relocated to Indian Territory, which later became Oklahoma. “This is where so many tribes ended up. We still have the largest diversity of Native American tribes of any state, and we just kind of latched on to that for this year.” The symposium, which is free to the public, begins April 5 with a 9:30 a.m. opening ceremony hosted by the university’s Native American Student Association, the crowning of Miss NASA 2006 and comments from Muscogee (Creek) poet Joy Harjo. The rest of the day will include lectures, a stickball game, hearing tests, reception for Miss NASA 2006, a traditional dance exhibition and an evening feature film session. The next day’s events feature a 9:30 a.m. general session that includes a lecture by Osage/Cherokee author Dr. Rennard Strickland. Former Principal Chief Wilma Mankiller will host a luncheon at 11:30 a.m., which will lead into afternoon events such as a field trip to Cherokee Nation’s Language Immersion School. The evening sessions will cover Native American language lectures and animated films. Wilma Mankiller Tornado from Page 1 state and Cherokee Nation emergency officials took over to help with the recovery efforts. Martin Webb of the CN Emergency Management Service said his crew began working the scene that night. He added that the Oaks Mission gymnasium was established, with help from the American Red Cross, as a center for displaced people to stay, eat and recover from the storm. CN EMS’s Tamara Copeland said about 75 entities within the CN responded to the emergency. Chief Smith said the tribe also stepped up to help tribal citizens in need. He said the Housing Authority of the Cherokee Nation was helping people find temporary shelter by putting them in rental units and giving out rental assistance vouchers. Residents of Twin Oaks run past a damaged recreational vehicle near Scenic U.S. 412. (Photo by Travis Snell) Friday’s events begin with an 8:30 a.m. Native American language education seminar led by Dr. Akira Yamamoto. The American Indian Science and Engineering Society will host the 9:30 a.m. general session that includes a Cherokee music performance by Jim Carey of Sequoyah High School. The afternoon sessions include lectures by United Keetoowah Band author Robert J. Conley, Choctaw/Cherokee author Dr. George Ann Gregory, Eastern Band Cherokee Roseanna Belt and Muscogee (Creek) author Carole Stewart. The scheduled evening highlight is the annual NSU powwow. Joy Harjo The symposium’s last day includes a traditional art sale at 3 p.m. along with gourd dancing and a dinner. Another powwow is slated to begin at 7 p.m. to honor longtime NSU employee Carol Young. Fife said the symposium provides Natives and non-Natives a place to gather to learn about American Indian topics. “It has really gotten a national reputation, which we enjoy,” Fife said. “It’s important because the agenda we have is something that would be valuable, not only for students, but also for researchers, Indian communities and the general public.” [email protected] • (918) 453-5358 HACN Director David Southerland said the HACN had apartments in Delaware and Mayes counties for displaced citizens to use. Human Services was also helping find clothes and coats for citizens in need and Cherokee Nation Enterprises supplied several days worth of food and water for work crews and citizens. Dist. 5 (Delaware County) Tribal Councilors Linda Hughes O’Leary and Melvina Shotpouch also helped with the relief efforts. Shotpouch said she and O’Leary spent several days getting food and water to citizens and work crews as well as directing people to the Oaks Mission gym. “I put some signs at Colcord, Kansas (Okla.) and Twin Oaks telling them where to go,” she said. “We’re just sending them all to Oaks to the school and letting them coordinate from there. We also got a place set up at Twin Oaks Church and we were taking food to the workers, firefighters and whoever was helping.” One Cherokee family who may end up using the relief services is the Snails. Regina Snail said her father Woody of Twin Oaks lost his home in the storm and will have to look for a new one. “One of his friends came and got him and took him to Oaks,” Regina said. “They tried to outrun it. He said he saw some surrounding buildings go up and that's when they took off.” She said her father’s home received heavy Robert J. Conley damage to the walls and ceiling and that he and his wife Lucille would probably stay with family in West Siloam Springs. Cherokee citizen and Twin Oaks resident Matt Rogers was luckier. He said his house received no damage, but he couldn’t say the same for his car. Rogers was in his car with a co-worker driving to work east of Kansas when they turned around minutes before the tornado touched down. “We turned the corner by the (Twin Oaks) Conoco right as it was coming through. The tornado and my car were at the intersection at the same time, and my car started shaking back and forth.” He said as they raced the car north toward the turnpike’s overpass, his car started shaking and the (back passenger) window got sucked out. Rogers said he was lucky to sustain only minor repairs to his car, but realizes that many in the area weren’t so lucky. And with all the damage caused to area homes, infrastructure and livestock, some residents said it would take time for things to get back to normal. “Maybe a month or longer,” Sooter said, “but it will be a while.” For more information or to seek CN help, call (918) 453-5000 or the HACN at (918) 456-8374 or (918) 253-8315 for the Delaware County office. [email protected] • (918) 453-5358 Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006 CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 9 Marshals plunge for Special Olympics Cherokee Nation Directory TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Thirty members of the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service braved the frigid waters of the Illinois River in the Polar Bear Plunge at Arrowhead Camp Feb. 25 to raise money for the Special Olympics. The Polar Bear Plunge, sponsored by CNMS and Cherokee County Special Olympics, has become an annual event for the CNMS through which they get donations from family, friends and co-workers to benefit people with developmental disabilities. Sharon Wright, director of the CNMS, and others competed to see who could tolerate the waters the longest. After 20 minutes CN EMS urged the participants to exit the water. Tonya Wright stayed the longest with Sharon Wright coming in a close second. This year’s Plunge raised a total of $4,153 and the CN Marshals led the effort with $2,900 of the total. Sharon Wright was the top individual fundraiser bringing in $1,350. Previously, the Plunge has taken place in the Oklahoma City area. This was the first year the event was held locally. “It moved here this year because for the last two years we were the top fundraisers,” Wright said. “Cherokee County Special Olympics approached the people in Oklahoma City to see if they could sponsor it here. We are trying to get more Eastern Oklahoma Law Enforcement involved.” Special Olympics area representative Debbie Winburn said the funds are a big help to the organization. “Law enforcement is a huge benefactor of the Special Olympics all over the nation,” Winburn said. “I'm proud to say Cherokee Nation Marshals are among the top fundraising groups in Oklahoma. The Polar Bear Plunge gets a lot of attention because it's fun.” Winburn said the money will help fund the area track meet on April 22 in Muskogee. Nearly 500 athletes are expected to compete on the local level. Law enforcement officers and volunteers from throughout the state attended. The 30 CNMS employees that made the plunge were Antonio Aguilar, Darin Allen, Jess Anderson, Donnie Bowin, Dwight Bryant, Shannon Buhl, Scott Craig, Danny Doolin, Franky Dreadfulwater, Shawnna Eubanks, Lori Frank, James Harper, Bodee Jimerson, David Johnson, Jon Ketcher, Rodney Kingfisher, Catherine Leston, Chad McCarter, Faron Pritchett, Doug Ragsdale, Joe Rainwater, James Redcorn, Mike Reese, Steve Shelby, Vinnie Smith, Gina Sourjohn, Danny Tanner, Garland Thompson, John Timothy and Sharon Wright. For more information about the Special Olympics or to make a contribution, call Winburn at (918) 684-3700, ext. 1641. Chad McCarter and John Ketcher plunge into the Illinois River as quickly as possible Feb. 25. (Photo CN Communications Office) Granite tiles fall from Warrior Memorial storm system that swept through the area that weekend. “We’re looking into what caused the failTAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Just months after ure and are going to spearhead the resoluits dedication in November, nine black tion to that failure,” he said. granite tiles fell from the Cherokee Warrior The memorial is nearly 100 feet across with a 50-foot CN seal in the center. The Memorial wall and shattered during the weekend of March 11-12. seal’s seven-pointed star represents the Barry Boswell of Cherokee Nation seven Cherokee clans. About 2,000 engraved Industries’ Construction Management said bricks honoring Cherokee veterans surhis office was looking at several different round the seal. reasons why the tiles fell. He said the damA 12-foot-by-20-foot black granite cenage may have been caused by a powerful terpiece, where the tiles fell from, inscribed in both Cherokee and English read: “A grateful Cherokee Nation dedicates this memorial to all Cherokee men and women, both living and dead, who have defended their families, their people, and their homeland,” faces the seal and bricks. The inscribed message is now incomplete because of the incident. On the memorial wall’s other side, the inscription reads: “These names are carved in stone forever so that we and our children can learn and The Cherokee Warrior Memorial wall lost nine black granite remember. POW-MIA, tiles during the weekend of March 11 possibly due to severe you are not forgotten.” weather. (Photo by Bryan Pollard) By Travis Snell Staff Writer None of those tiles have fallen, but Boswell said there have been troubles with their attachment as well. “We’ve had none of them fall as of yet and we’re going to take steps, now that the tile people have visited the site, to secure the tiles that are there to keep them from falling because we believe that they are at the same risk.” He said his office, along with the company that attached the tiles to monument – Creative Edge from Iowa – have taken steps to secure the tiles. Boswell said the tile company has been “very cooperative” and feels that in time, the memorial will be back to its original appearance. He said his office had no timetable on how long it could take to make the repairs. When the memorial was officially dedicated on Nov. 10, about 200 people, including veterans of all military branches, attended the ceremony. Officials said the memorial cost nearly $100,000 to complete, and the Tribal Council contibuted more than $50,000. The other half came from veteran brick sales. The Veteran Affairs Office continues to sell bricks for $25 to be placed at the memorial. For more information, contact Rogan Noble at (918) 453-5695 or [email protected]. [email protected] • (918) 453-5358 Tribal Complex Main: (918) 453-5000 (800) 256-0671 Accounting • 453-5354 Administration • 453-5618 Adult Education • 458-0484 Ambulance Services • 453-5200 Behavioral Health • 458-6285 Breast & Cervical Cancer Early Detection • 458-4491 Burial Assistance • 453-5366 Career Services • 453-5555 Cherokee First; Information Center • 207-3936 Cherokee National Holiday Office • 453-5536 Cherokee Phoenix • 453-5269 Child Care Resource Center • 453-5300 Child Care Subsidy • 453-5060 Child Development Center • 453-5070 Clinic: Bartlesville Clinic • 336-0823 Clinic: Claremore Clinic • 342-6200 Clinic: Jay Clinic • 253-4271 Clinic: Muskogee Clinic • 687-0201 Clinic: Nowata Clinic • 273-0192 Clinic: Salina Clinic • 434-8500 Clinic: Sallisaw Clinic • 775-9159 Clinic: Stilwell Clinic • 696-8800 Clinic: Vinita Clinic • 323-0191 Commerce • 453-5536 Communications • 453-5006 Community Development • 431-4177 Community Services Administration • 453-5233 Contract Health • 207-3968 Crisis Assistance • 453-5422 Cultural Resource Center • 453-5151 Education • 207-3865 Elderly Assistance • 453-5241 Emergency Loan Program • 453-5524 Energy Assistance • 453-5241 Environmental Health-Water & Sanitation • 453-5111 Environmental Services • 453-5005 Food Distribution-Tahlequah • 453-5700 General Assistance • 453-5366 Head Start • 458-4393 Health Admin • 453-5246 Health Services • 453-5657 Healthy Nations • 453-5600 Higher Education • 453-5465 Home Health Agency • 458-6102 Housing Authority • 456-5482 Human Resources • 453-5050 Indian Child Welfare • 431-4115 Jack Brown Center • 453-5500 Johnson O'Malley (JOM) • 453-5250 Lanuage & History Classes • 453-5151 Learn & Serve • 453-5203 Loan Programs • 453-5536 Marshall Services Drug Hot Line • 207-3801 Marshall Services Fraud Waste & Abuse • 207-3802 Marshall Services Main Number • 207-3800 Natural Resources Bull Hollow • 868-2730 Natural Resources Complex • 453-5671 Natural Resources Dahlonegah • 696-3317 Personnel • 453-5050 Purchasing • 453-5214 Realty • 453-5350 Registration • 453-5575 Roads • 453-5396 Sequoyah High School • 453-5400 Small Business Assistance • 453-5536 Tax Commission-TAG Office • 453-5100 Tribal Council • 207-3900 Tribal Citizenship • 453-5575 Veterans Affairs • 453-5693 Vocational Rehab • 453-5004 Youth Services (Community) • 453-5483 Youth Shelter • 458-4440 10 CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006 Cherokee Heritage Center receives financial support TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – The Cherokee Heritage Center and the Cherokee Nation reached an agreement recently that will allow the CHC to concentrate on programming. and getting support for that. They are also getting support from facilities. We are doing some facilities repair over there and getting them into our capital improvement planning for the next five to 10 years.” Melanie Knight, CN executive officer, said finances have been a challenge for the CHC for several years. The CHC will also have access to CN central systems such as human resources and accounting. “We wanted to provide a level of financial stability so they can focus on fundraising and programming activities and other things they would like to do without worrying about how they are going to make payroll,” Knight said. “We were doing some cultural programming and they were doing some cultural programming and many times it was similar kinds of work that could really get the benefit of some synergy if we worked together on them,” Knight said. “Another objective was the work and coordinating – what they are doing with what we are doing with the Cultural Resource Center.” The CN will provide more financial support and allow the CHC to take advantage of other tribal services. “Many of the operational employees have become employees of the (Cherokee) Nation in order to get them a consistent employment package with fringe benefits, insurance, a 401(k) – access to things they didn’t have,” Knight said. “They also have access to our internal systems like IS (Information Systems), getting a Web page Cherokee Nation Enterprises is also involved. “The part of the agreement that involved CNE has to do with the retail operations,” Knight said. “CNE’s being able to provide support there in regard to marketing, in regard to point of sales systems and the technology they will use in the gift shop.” Cherokee awarded EPA Fellowship to research ozone, air quality TULSA, Okla. – With summertime ozone alerts a distant memory, one Oklahoma State University-Tulsa student’s research heated up during the winter. Cherokee citizen David Williams, a civil engineering doctoral student at OSUTulsa, has been collecting data on Tulsa’s ozone since May 2005. Now Williams is analyzing that data and studying the effects of the ozone on Tulsa’s air quality. Williams was awarded a fellowship of $37,000 by the Environmental Protection Agency to complete the study. “OSU is committed to research efforts that will make beneficial impacts in our community and nationally,” said OSUTulsa President Gary Trennepohl. “David Williams’ research is a great example of combining rigorous academic research with practical application to real-world issues.” The EPA’s Greater Research Opportunities Graduate Fellowship Program will fund Williams’ research for three years. The GRO program sponsors master’s degree- and doctoral-level students in environmentally related fields of study. More than 1,300 applicants compete each year for approximately 100 fellowships. Williams said he is honored to receive a fellowship for his research that could benefit state and national environmental agencies. “When choosing a Ph.D. project, I wanted to focus on an issue that was relevant to the local area,” Williams said. “I think it is important for state universities to research topics that affect the local population.” Williams said the purpose of his research is to get a measurement of how much ozone is locally produced during an entire ozone season, which typically begins in May and ends in October. “I’ll be trying to determine if the ozone is solely locally generated or if transported ozone is significantly affecting the air quality in Tulsa,” Williams said. “Tulsa’s amount of ground-level ozone is one of the pollutants that determine the EPA’s designation of our city.” David Williams According to the EPA, a city or area may be designated as “attainment” or “nonattainment” based on the number of violations of the national eight-hour ozone standard over a three-year period. “The outcome of this research could ultimately impact Tulsa’s status on attainment,” Williams said.“It could certainly assist the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality when it considers and implements strategies on tackling ozone problems.” ODEQ donated two analyzing instruments to OSU for the purpose of this study. Williams said the units, which are the same instruments used to measure data to determine “ozone alerts,” were placed on the roof of the Bank of Oklahoma Tower in Tulsa in May to collect data. The City of Tulsa provided the space and power for the instrumentation. Williams also launched an ozone analyzer-equipped research balloon, known as an “ozonesonde,” for additional data collection. He plans to present his research at the EPA’s national conference in September 2006. “While at OSU-Tulsa, I’ve had the opportunity to study with world-class faculty,” Williams said. “I’m excited about applying that knowledge as emphasis continues to be placed on protection of the environment.” Williams is the son of Thomas and Nedra Williams, and the grandson of the late Hubert and Ruth (Cochran) Williams and Irene and the late Alvie McMillan, all of Catoosa. Practice Cherokee - Animals fC inc aOUl Gi - tli I - na - da A - wo - ha - li Dog Snake Eagle PA 4y DWl We - sa Do - yah So - gwi - li Cat Beaver Horse Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006 CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 11 Women move to dismiss The Cherokee Nation History Course third legal challenge a person must prove individual harm before proceeding with litigation. “She (Fields) has not identified any TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Two women con- ‘injury of fact’ or pointed to any way in sidering having their same-sex marriage which she has suffered a threatened or validated by Cherokee Nation filed a actual injury resulting from the motion to dismiss a third challenge on Respondents’ (McKinley and Reynolds) March 8 in tribal court. marriage,” Ayoub wrote. Cherokee citizens Kathy E. Reynolds and She also states Fields’ job doesn’t give her Dawn L. McKinley filed a dismissal motion standing to file suit and argues the JAT and against a petition asking the Judicial federal courts have clarified that the Appeals Tribunal to hear the case. requirement of standing applies to every CN Court Administrator Lisa Fields filed litigant. the Jan. 26 petition asking the JAT to “Simply alleging that one is a citizen, a instruct her “how to direct the court clerk” taxpayer, a legislator or a public official is to treat a marriage certificate issued to the not sufficient … a person who is invoking women on May 13, 2004. … this Court must demonstrate that she Fields’ petition states her job includes has suffered or is threatened with suffering supervising the District Court clerk, who some individualized harm.” records tribal marriage certificates, and she Ayoub contends Fields’ fear of oath violaneeds to know if accepting the certificate tion doesn’t stand because the CN law would violate her oath of “properly record- Fields cites has no bearing. The law states ing official records and documents” since that anybody who … procures or offers the council changed the marriage law to “false or forged” documents to be filed in prohibit same-sex marriages. CN is guilty of a crime. When the couple received its certificate, “Although (Fields) does not say so, she tribal law defined marriage as a union appears to suggest that either she or the between a “companion” and “cooker.” A Clerk might be liable under the statute if month later, it was changed to state marthey recorded the … marriage certificate,” riage could only occur between man and a Ayoub wrote. “By its plain terms (the woman. statute) applies to ‘a false or forged docu“After the issuance of the marriage cerment.’ The marriage license does not fall tificate … the Tribal Council removed any into either one of these categories regardpossible ambiguity in tribal law when they less of whether it is or is not valid.” expressly prohibited marriage between two Ayoub states that even if the certificate people of the same sex,” Fields’ petition was void, as Fields argues, it simply would states. “Unless … ordered by the tribal be an invalid document issued in good courts to accept and file the marriage … faith by the court clerk and obtained in this office’s position is that the marriage good faith by the couple based on a belief certificate between the two women is void- that they were legally entitled to marriage. able … and that a judicial determination on Two previous challenges to the marriage the merits would conclude the marriage have failed because the JAT stated chalcertificate void.” lengers did not demonstrate “specific parFields also cited a June 2004 legal opinticularized harm” caused by the marriage. ion by the late and former CN General The first one came from Tribal Council Counsel Julian Fite that stated CN laws attorney Todd Hembree acting as a private “reflected” marriage as a union between a citizen. The JAT dismissed it on Aug. 3, man and woman. Fields’ petition also states 2005. she and her lawyer John G. Ghostbear The second challenge came from nine researched tribal law and history and deter- Tribal Councilors who stated since they mined gay marriages were “never contemamended CN's marriage law forbidding plated or recognized.” same-sex marriage in June 2004, they had In the motion to dismiss, the couple’s standing to contest the couple’s certificate. counsel, Lena Ayoub of the National Center The JAT dismissed it on Dec. 22, 2005. for Lesbian Rights in San Francisco, cites several reasons, including that Fields hasn’t shown individualized harm. Under CN law, [email protected] • (918) 453-5358 By Travis Snell Staff Writer “The Cherokee History class answered questions my family has had for many years. Our children deserve their true history and this heritage must be available to all generations to come. The sense of pride and fulfillment these classes give is priceless.” - Tahlequah course participant The Cherokee Nation History Course, part of a new initiative to rejuvenate our knowledge of language, culture, and history, is being offered to citizens of the Cherokee Nation as well as the general public. • Awarded “Honors” as a national finalist in Harvard University’s “Honoring Nations” project recognizing tribal initiatives in self-government and self-determination! • Over 5000 Cherokee Nation employees and community people have attended this course. • Participants will receive a compilation text, Cherokee Nation History, as part of this course! Cherokee Nation: (918) 453-5000 or 1-800-256-0671 Tribal Council: (918) 207-3900 or 1-800-995-9465 Cherokee Nation Tax Commission: (918) 453-5100 Cherokee Phoenix: (918) 453-5269 Saturdays and Sundays • April 8-9 and April 22-23 9 am to 6 pm each day (This is a four day, thirty-two hour course) Mitchell Hall, Room 202 • University of New Mexico Sponsored by the Cherokee Nation in conjunction with UNM’s Native American Studies Department and the Cherokee SouthWest Township Registration is $10 per person • Please use form below Tahlequah, OK May 8-12 • 8 am to 5 pm each day Osiyo Training Room • Cherokee Nation Complex Hwy 62 • Sponsored by the Cherokee Nation Registration is free • Call Caleen Bolin (918) 453-5559 Portland, OR June 10-11 and 24-25 • 9 am to 6 pm each day (This is a four-day, thirty-two hour course) Portland State University • Cramer Hall, Room 53 Sponsored by the Cherokee Nation in conjunction with the Native American Studies Department, Portland State University Registration is $10 per person • Please use form below Pre-registration is required in all courses. Enroll by calling or mailing in the form below. Please register me in the Albuquerque, New Mexico course Enclose $10 per person • Make check or money order payable to the Cherokee Nation and mail to: Cherokee Nation • Attn: Caleen Bolin, OEDC • P.O. Box 948 • Tahlequah, OK 74465 Please register me in the Portland, Oregon course Enclose $10 per person • Make check or money order payable to the Cherokee Nation and mail to: Cherokee Nation • Attn: Caleen Bolin, OEDC • P.O. Box 948 • Tahlequah, OK 74465 Name: Mailing Address: City/State/Zip: Phone: New Phone Numbers Albuquerque, NM Additional Guests: E-mail: 12 CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006 Tribe donates to single-mom center TAHLEQUAH, Okla.–The Cherokee Nation recently donated $20,000 to the Zoë Institute Inc., a single-mom resource center in Tahlequah. Founded to improve the overall quality of life of individuals, Zoë’s unique Single Mom Resource Center was established to assist women, whether widowed or divorced, raise their children, take care of their homes and automobiles and learn financial independence. Zoë is a Greek word that means higher life, spiritual life or life the way it was intended to be. Tribal Councilors Bill John Baker, Audra Smoke-Connor and Don Garvin also made individual donations of $250 each to the organization. The Zoë Institute offers multiple services including the Hands of Grace Warehouse, which provides household cleaning items and paper products, clothing, shoes and toys, and some furniture and appliances; monthly distribution of reduced cost food boxes; DivorceCare, a 13-week divorce recovery program; Safe Relationships, a course that teaches women how to make good relationship choices; PREP, premarital and marriage education courses; 24/7 Dad, a fatherhood accountability course; various single mom seminars such as car care clinics, mortgage clinics, smoking cessation clinics, and basic life skills courses; and access to counseling and professional services. “This donation is huge. I am speechless,” Rhonda Clemons, executive director of the Zoë Institute, said. “It is so rewarding to see the community come together and to see Cherokee Nation be part of the community.” Current statistics show that single mothers are currently raising 58 percent of all children in Cherokee County. For more information visit www.zoeinstitute.us. Judge orders former councilor to repay tribal funds By Travis Snell Staff Writer OKMULGEE, Okla. – A U.S. judge has ordered former Dist. 3 (Sequoyah County) Tribal Councilor Mary Flute-Cooksey to repay Cherokee Nation more than $3,000 in tribal funds she used to hire an attorney in 2003. U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Tom R. Cornish issued a Feb. 22 ruling stating Cooksey must repay CN the $3,482.37 she used when she and two other former councilors hired Tulsa attorney Mary Flute-Cooksey Richard Toon to challenge the tribe’s 2003 election results. Cooksey’s amount is one-third of the $10,447 used to pay Toon. According to tribal documents, in June 2003 Cooksey along with former Dist. 1 (Cherokee County) Tribal Councilor Don Crittenden and former Dist. 6 (Mayes County) Tribal Councilor Stephanie Wickliffe-Shepherd signed a contract with Toon and agreed to reimburse him for expenses incurred during the tribal case. The three lost their council seats during the election and later lost the case. In July 2003, the Toon Law Firm was paid using CN funds. Title 26, Section 102(A) of the tribe’s codes prohibits the use of public funds to pay an individual’s attorney fees to contest a tribal election. However, accounting documents show each of the three councilors expended $3,482.37 of their own Tribal Council legal expense fund and they filed the election appeal petition as “a current council representative.” Cooksey’s case was heard in U.S. Bankruptcy Court because she filed for bankruptcy and included her tribal debt. According to the bankruptcy ruling, Cornish ordered Cooksey to repay CN because she was in a “position of fiduciary as an elected officer” when she converted tribal funds for personal use and because she had earlier entered a plea of no contest in CN District Court to criminal charges of making a fraudulent claim against the tribe and conspiracy to make a fraudulent claim. In September 2005, Crittenden and Wickliffe-Shepherd also pleaded no contest to the charges. CN District Court officials said Cooksey is repaying her share of the $10,447 via monthly payments of $50 and that the case is set for an April 22 review in District Court. Officials also said both Crittenden and Wickliffe-Shepherd have repaid their amounts in full. According to court documents, the three do not admit guilt to the charges by pleading no contest, and they were to be placed under unsupervised probation for six months. Upon completion of six months without probation violation, the no contest pleas would be expunged from their records and the charges shall be dismissed, court records state. [email protected] • (918) 453-5358 Descendants of Cherokee seminaries reunion set By Gregg Simmons Staff Writer TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – The Descendants of Cherokee Seminaries Students Organization will have its annual reunion May 7 at Northeastern State University in Tahlequah. Registration will begin at 10 a.m. in the Branscum Alumni Center. A fee of $25 will be collected and will cover membership dues and lunch. The date is significant because Marion Hagerstrand, front center, visits with other the Cherokee National Female descendants at the 2005 reunion. Seminary reopened May 7, 1889. school, except on May 7,” Marion The seminary was destroyed by fire two years before. Female and male seminaries Hagerstrand, Jack Brown’s daughter, said. “I again want to emphasize the imporopened in 1851 at Park Hill, 12 years after tance of continuing our campaign to raise Cherokees were removed to Indian funds for Cherokee students,” Rick Ward, Territory, now Oklahoma. The state DCSSO president said. “Since education is bought the female seminary in 1909, the foundation of this organization, I feel which is now Seminary Hall, the centerthat this is a very important cause. I want piece of NSU. to especially thank Dr. Ed Pointer and his The descendants meet each May 7 to wife Alorthene for their contribution last honor their ancestors. year to help establish our program.” Jack Brown established the DCSSO in Tax deductible donations for the schol1975. He had served as executive vice arship can be mailed to the NSU president of the Cherokee Seminaries Foundation, 812 N. Cedar, Tahlequah, OK Alumni Association for many years. Due 74464. Indicate the donation is for the to the number of former seminary stuDescendants Scholarship. dents passing away, he wanted to get the For more information contact Ward at descendants of the alumni to participate (918) 458-4415 or (918) 772-2713. in the activities of the association. “My father, being a school [email protected] • (918) 453-5351 ent, always said every child needs to be in NATIVE AMERICAN JOURNALISTS ASSOCIATION EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Become part of an exciting new project designed to increase the number of Native journalists in mainstream media. The Native American Journalists Association is accepting applications for the position of Education Director with NAJA’s headquarters housed at the Al Neuharth Media Center on the University of South Dakota campus. This position is partially funded through a two-year grant from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation. Responsibilities include: • Conducting a feasibility study on high schools serving Native Americans in South Dakota. • Developing a journalism curriculum for students with an emphasis on teacher training for high schools serving Native students in South Dakota and surrounding states. • Providing oversight of NAJA journalism education programs. • Serving as lead coordinator for NAJA’s annual student projects and scholarships. • A future opportunity to teach 12 credit hours per academic year in USD’s Department of Contemporary Media and Journalism, inclusive of summer sessions, and teaching duties for the American Indian Journalism Institute. Primary teaching responsibilities will include courses in the journalism emphasis areas. USD’s Department of Contemporary Media and Journalism offers the Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in mass communications and is accredited by ACEJMC. For more information about the University and the Department, visit the following Websites: www.usd.edu and www.usd.edu/cmj. The selected candidate must have a bachelor’s degree or higher in journalism, mass communication or related field. Master’s degree candidates with significant professional background and previous teaching experience are strongly desired. Candidates with experience in American Indian education will be given special consideration. We are seeking an individual with expertise in journalism that has the ability to work with students and conduct research. Excellence in teaching is also a plus -- both in the classroom and in mentoring students outside the classroom. Send a letter of application, resume, a transcript showing highest degree and three references to: Kim Baca Interim Executive Director Native American Journalists Association 555 Dakota St. • Al Neuharth Media Center • Vermillion, SD 57069 Review of applications will begin February 2006 and will continue until the position is filled. Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006 CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 13 A Union Magic, the No. 7 horse, wins the opening race on Feb. 24 at Will Rogers Downs in a photo finish. (Photos by Lisa Hicks) Will Roger Downs opens live racing schedule A Union Magic is the first horse to win a live race at WRD in almost five years. facility will make a significant impact on the economy in northeastern Oklahoma, which in turn will further assist in funding CLAREMORE, Okla. – In a photo finish, education as well as creating jobs in rural A Union Magic was the first horse to win a Oklahoma's horse racing industry.” Smith said he was glad to see the horse live race at Will Rogers Downs in almost track employ about 100 people, with about five years as Cherokee Nation Enterprises ushered in a new era of racing Feb. 24 at the 90 of them tribal citizens, as well as help Claremore track. create partnerships with surrounding areas. With more than 100 spectators in atten“We are very anxious in developing this dance, live horseracing returned with 11 partnership with the community of races that included thoroughbred, quarter, Claremore and with northeastern appaloosa and paint horses. Oklahoma as part of our overall initiative to create employment,” he said. “The formula is “We are excited to offer live racing at very simple. When we can create jobs, we Cherokee Casino Will Rogers Downs,” Principal Chief Chad Smith said. “This can keep our people home, which allows us to keep our language and culture alive and improves our quality of life.” Tribal officials were not the only ones happy to see live horse racing return to Claremore as Joe Lucas, Oklahoma Quarter Horse Association president, and members of the Oklahoma Horse Racing Commission attended a press conference held before the day’s first race. “I want to thank the Cherokee Nation for investing in our industry by bringing live racing back to Will Rogers Downs,” Lucas said. “I want to thank them for the improvements that they have obviously made to it Joyce and Floyd Hambrick, who attended since the time they have purchased this opening day for WRD in 1987, watch the place. It’s tremendous and the horse indusreturn of live racing on Feb. 24. By Travis Snell Staff Writer CHEROKEE LANGUAGE INFORMATION For information about online language classes, contact Ben Phillips at (918) 4533869 or e-mail [email protected] or visit www.cherokee.org. For information about pre-school language immersion classes, contact Sherry Holcomb at (918) 458-5504. For information about the Cherokee languagedegree program at Northeastern State University, contact Phyllis Fife at (918) 456-5511, ext. 4350, or e-mail [email protected]. try thanks you for it.” Others elated to see racing action return included people laying down wagers. “I’m tickled to death,” Joyce Hambrick, who attended the opening day with her husband Floyd, said. “I love horse racing, and I came here when it opened as Will Rogers Downs in 1987. I think more people will come in and it should provide more jobs.” The track’s 42-day mixed meet offers live horse racing every Friday, Saturday and Sunday until May 28 and will include eight thoroughbred races per day. For the first time in the history of the 236-acre track, two or more quarter horse, paint and appaloosa races will be held each day. The purses for Thoroughbred races will total $80,000 per day with an additional $21,000 allocated for other races. The purses will come from revenue generated by gaming machines and a pool of money compiled from racetracks across Oklahoma. CNE officials said nearly $4.5 million has been spent renovating the track, which includes resurfacing the one-mile track. Other improvements include adding 200 horse stalls to the 456 stalls that were at the track when CNE bought it two years ago. The outdoor grandstand has been renovated and is free to the public. Restrooms, concession stands and back-of-house areas have also been improved. The track’s indoor gaming facility, the Turf Club, is under renovation and has an entry fee of $5 per person. The new Dog Iron Saloon features a variety of made-to-order items such as hamburgers, chicken wings and fresh salads. The facility also features an entertainment stage offering live acts every Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. Two new simulcast rooms are also available for betting on horse races held across the country. Dozens of television screens line the wall for easy viewing for simulcast wagering on days when no live races are held at WRD. The track’s adjoining casino will also feature newer, skill-based games for a better variety as part of the 250 gaming machines allowed at the track via a state compact. The track is also home to the largest recreational vehicle park in Oklahoma with more than 400 full hook-up rigs and a separate clubhouse for recreational vehicle guests. Hours of operation are from 10 a.m. to 1 a.m. Sunday through Thursday and 10 a.m. to 1:30 a.m. Friday and Saturday. The track is located three miles east of Claremore on Highway 20. [email protected] • (918) 453-5358 Cherokee Nation Tag Offices: Tahlequah 17675 S. Muskogee Ave. Tahlequah, Okla. 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. (918) 453-5100 Adair 301 W. Main Adair, Okla. Located next to the Oklahoma Tag Agency 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. (918) 207-2495 Gore 206 S. Main • Gore, Okla. Located within the Southlake Insurance agency and Oklahoma Tax Agency 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. • (918) 489-5175 For information online: www.cherokeetags.org 14 CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006 Applicants sought for Miss Cherokee competition TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Every year, a highlight of the Cherokee National Holiday is the Miss Cherokee Leadership Competition. Young women from across the Cherokee Nation vie for the opportunity to represent the tribe as a goodwill ambassador and messenger who promotes the government, history, language and culture of the Cherokee people. LaShawna Fields, the current Miss Cherokee, has appeared at the opening ceremonies of the National Congress of the American Indian convention in Tulsa Oct. 31 and spoke at the opening of the Cherokee Warrior Memorial Nov. 10. On March 11, she joined Principal Chief Chad Smith in a commemorative walk down a newly certified segment of the Trail of Tears in Pea Ridge, Ark. In between public appearances and speaking engagements, Fields visits local school children and entertains them with traditional stories. “I encourage all young Cherokee women to participate in the competition. Not only have I had the privilege of traveling, meeting people and making new friends, I also had the honor of representing the Cherokee Nation. Being a representative of the second largest tribe in the nation is truly an honor,” Fields said. The competition will be held Aug. 26 and the winner crowned in a ceremony during the Cherokee National Holiday Sept. 2. Applications will be accepted through July 21. Contestants must be between 17 and 22 years of age before Aug. 26, 2006, and a tribal citizen with at least one-fourth degree Cherokee blood. Contestants must also be high school graduates or have a Tribe announces call to honor military personnel Miss Cherokee LaShawna Fields speaks Nov. 10 during the opening ceremony for the Cherokee Warrior Memorial at the Cherokee Nation tribal complex. (Photo by Lisa Hicks) GED equivalency. A contestant must not be married or have ever cohabited. Contestants cannot have children, have previously served as Miss Cherokee, have been convicted of any crime nor have any criminal charges pending. All contestants must be able to physically fulfill the duties of the position. “We hope every eligible young woman will participate in the Miss Cherokee competition this year. This event is a win-win situation for everyone involved since it requires leadership skills to apply for and to follow through with the competition. No matter the outcome, everyone wins,” Principal Chief Chad Smith said. For more information, call Nancy Scott at (918) 453-5257 or visit www.cherokee.org. Completed applications must be postmarked no later than July 21, 2006. Handcarried or faxed applications will not be accepted. Road construction funded in Muskogee County TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Cherokee Nation gave $116,754 to Muskogee County for upgrades and repairs to three roads – South Country Club Road, South 25th St. East and South 55th St. East. District 4 (McIntosh, Muskogee and Wagoner counties) Tribal Councilor Don Garvin presented the check to Gene Wallace, Dist. 1 Muskogee County Commissioner, who accepted the donation on behalf of the county. “This check represents a commitment of Cherokee Nation to date of more than $4 million in Muskogee County,” Wallace said. “With Don’s cooperation, we have received approximately $500,000 in road money. Participation with Cherokee Nation in Muskogee County is invaluable. Our county could never improve without Cherokee Nation and Councilor Garvin. The Cherokee population in Muskogee County is extremely grateful for the tribe’s involvement.” More than 35 miles of new roads have been built in the past four years as a result of the funding, Wallace said. Traffic in Muskogee County is increasing rapidly on roads designed for 1930s traffic flow. “Cherokee Nation District 4 is a large district stretching from Wagoner to McIntosh counties,” Garvin said. “People we help in the district are always very appreciative. We are glad to partner with and be part of the Muskogee County Commissioners’ work.” – CN Communications Office In Memoriam George T. Ross, 91 Nov. 24, 1914, Akins Community, Okla. – Feb. 22, 2006, Ft. Smith, Ark. Brick mason News Briefs Ruby Marie Kincaid, 77 June 7, 1928, Nicut Community, Okla. – Jan. 6, 2006, Sallisaw, Okla. Homemaker TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – The Cherokee Nation recently called for all Cherokee citizens in active military service and veterans from all branches to participate in a new program to honor their service. The program was started in 2005 by Deputy Chief Joe Grayson to honor one active service individual and one veteran each month at council meetings. Veterans of WWII will be recognized first, and honorees will progress to most recent service. Council meetings are held the Monday after the second Saturday each month. To nominate a Cherokee citizen or for more information call (918) 453-5541 or email [email protected]. Woman indicted in theft from Cherokee Casino MUSKOGEE, Okla. – An Adair County woman who is accused of embezzling more than $11,000 from the Cherokee Casino in Tahlequah was indicted Feb. 15 by federal grand jurors, officials said. Sonya Webster, 38, of Watts, Okla., was indicted on one count of embezzlement by an employee of a tribal organization, a press release from Eastern District U.S. Attorney Sheldon Sperling stated. Webster allegedly embezzled funds and credits belonging to the casino with the intent to convert them to her use and the use of others, according to authorities. Punishment for the crime is not more than 20 years imprisonment and up to $1 million in fines or both. Oklahoma tribes doing better than counterparts OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) – Citizens of three Oklahoma Indian tribes have attained greater prosperity than Indians in other states, but still lag behind the general population in some areas, statistics show. A U.S. Census Bureau report released in February was based on 2000 Census data for Indians and Alaska Natives. It included numbers for 14 tribes, including the Oklahoma-based Apaches, Cherokees, Choctaws and Creeks. According to the report, the Cherokee, Choctaw and Creek tribes had higher educational attainment, home ownership and median incomes than Indians generally, but were below national averages. The Apache had lower educational attainment, home ownership and median incomes than Indians in general. While 52 percent of the U.S. adult population has at least some college credit, the number among American Indians is 44 percent. The Creeks matched the general population in that measure, while the Apache rate was 40 percent. Cherokee Nation hosting vendor fairs TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – The Cherokee Nation One-Stop Business Assistance Center will host two vendor fairs and workshops for Cherokee Nation Indian Certified businesses and vendors to market their products and services to multiple purchasing departments and buyers within the Cherokee Nation jurisdictional area. One fair will be held on from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., April 29, in the Tsa-La-Gi Community Meeting Room down the hallway from the Restaurant of the Cherokees, located next to the main tribal complex. The other is scheduled from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., June 29, in Salons B, C and D at the Cherokee Casino & Resort in Catoosa. For more information or to pre-register, contact Heather Overacker at (918) 2073939 or by email at [email protected]. Cherokees grant casino expansion CHEROKEE, N.C. (AP) – The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Tribal Council recently gave its Tribal Casino Gaming Enterprise Board permission to seek $254 million to pay for expanding the casino’s showroom and hotel on the reservation in western North Carolina. Plans also call for a new spa and a 1,000-car parking deck and could result in the creation of as many as 1,200 jobs at the casino, said Harrah’s Cherokee Vice President Ray Rose. The casino now employs about 1,770 people. “Business has been good, but gaming is very competitive, very capital-intensive, very dynamic. This is about maintaining our competitive advantage and positioning the business for longtime success,” Rose said. “We want to become a destination resort.” The casino, about 50 miles southeast of Knoxville, Tenn., is owned by the Eastern Band and managed by Harrah’s. It earns about $155 million annually for the tribe. Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006 CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 15 TRIBAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Why apply at the Cherokee Nation? It’s a great place to work! We are currently seeking: Dentist Cherokee Nation Enterprises is the premier entertainment company in Oklahoma. We operate five Casinos and numerous retail establishments in northeast Oklahoma, with corporate offices in Tahlequah and Catoosa. Our most recent expansion, Cherokee Casino and Resort in Tulsa, is Oklahoma’s first resort gaming destination. The resort features a 150room hotel with four restaurants, three nightclubs, meeting space, a gift shop, and championship golf course. In operation since 1990, CNE employs more than 2,000 people who reside within the 14-county boundary of the Cherokee Nation. Physician Assistant Residential Advisors Controller Teachers (Head Start) Substitute Teachers We seek candidates who have a great customer service attitude, who are motivated to perform at high levels, and have the capability to progress in a hospitality or retail environment. If you are motivated to provide outstanding customer service and be part of a dynamic atmosphere, we hope you will apply for a position with us. EMT-Basic EMT Paramedics (Part-Time) Senior Program Analyst Certified Secondary Education Teachers Complete list of jobs, descriptions and applications are available online www.cherokeejoblist.org Cherokee Nation Human Resources • P.O. Box 948 Tahlequah, OK 74465 (918) 453-5605 Submit application & supporting documents to: Loretta McNac [email protected] Fax: (918) 458-6253 We currently have employees in more than 30 states and several countries. We offer: Dental Hygienist Nurse Practitioner CNI was founded in 1969 and is a diverse company that provides aerospace, defense and telecommunications products to customers in both the public and private sector. CNI also offers governmental agencies medical and engineering professional services. We also supply manufacturing and distribution services. • An Employee Assistance Program • A Flex Spending Account Plan • Competitive Wages •Paid Holidays • 401(k) plan We offer: • Paid Vacation Time Paid Holidays • 401(k) plan • Paid Sick/Personal Time Medical Insurance with prescription drug plan • Company Paid Insurance Plan Health Dental Vision Life Disability Prescription Medication Flex Benefits Spending Plan Paid Vacation Time • Paid Sick Leave Tuition Reimbursement Program Employee Group Term Life & more Visit our Website for current job listings www.cherokeecasino.com Cherokee Casino ¥ 918-384-7800 P.O. Box 399, Catoosa, OK 74015 Roland ¥ 918-427-7491 P.O. Box 1000, Roland, OK 74954 Siloam Springs ¥ 918-422-5100 P.O. Box 1046, Siloam Springs, AR 72761 Tahlequah ¥ 918-458-1696 P.O. 179, Tahlequah, OK 74465 www.cnicnd.com Cherokee Nation Industries, Inc. P.O. Box 860 Stilwell, OK 74960 (918)696-3151 Submit a resume to: [email protected] Fax: (918) 696-3160 16 CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006 Cherokee Nation WIC offices Wellness Program receives award Claremore Indian Hospital 101 S. Moore Ave. Claremore, Okla. (918) 342-6372 (918) 342-6371 (918) 342-6370 W.W. Hastings Hospital 100 South Bliss Tahlequah, Okla. (918) 458-3253 (918) 458-3180 (918) 458-3126 (918) 458-3243 Sam Hider Jay Community Clinic P.O. Box 350 Jay, OK 74346 (918) 253-4271 ext. 275 or 274 A-MO-Hi Salina Community Health Center 900 Owen Walters Boulevard Salina, Okla. (918) 434-8512 (918) 434-8500 ext. 7615 Redbird Smith Health Center 301 South J.T. Stites Sallisaw, Okla. (918) 774-1413 Wilma P. Mankiller Health Center Hwy 51 East Rt. 6 Box 840 Stilwell, OK 74960 (918) 696-8832 Indian Health Care Resource Center 1628 S. Main Tulsa, Okla. (918) 382-1290 (918) 382-1291 Nowata Primary Health Clinic 202 East Galer Nowata, Okla. (918) 273-0192 Muskogee Health Center 1805 N. York Muskogee, Okla. (918) 687-0201 ext. 227, 229 or 228 Westville WIC Office Bushyhead Heights Community Building (918) 723-4920 Warner WIC Office Houston Johnson Housing Addition Contact Muskogee Health Center to make an appointment (918) 463-3694 Kansas WIC Office Kansas, OK 74347 (918) 868-2010 Hulbert WIC Office 123 E. Main, Suite 1 Hulbert, Okla. (918) 772-2879 (918) 772-3471 TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Cherokee Nation was recognized as one of Oklahoma’s Certified Healthy Businesses by the Oklahoma Academy for State Goals, the Oklahoma Turning Point Council, the State Chamber and the Oklahoma State Department of Health. This award honors the health and wellness opportunities CN offers its employees. The award also cites CN for setting an example for other businesses to emulate. “It is important to provide information and fitness activities for our employees so that they can make wise choices and improve their quality of life. Our Wellness Program is very successful, and I commend the staff for their efforts. It is quite an honor to receive this award for the third year in a row,” Principal Chief Chad Smith said. The Wellness Program currently offers an exercise and fitness video library and free health pamphlets. “I feel very honored that Cherokee Nation has received the Certified Healthy Business award this year. I hope the award is more encouragement for employees to keep striving for good health. The Wellness Program has lots to offer for employee health through education, wellness activities and local fitness centers,” Wynema Bush, CN wellness coordinator, said. This is the third year the Cherokee Nation received this award. Only 108 businesses in Oklahoma were honored this year. For more information, call Bush at (918) 453-5561. – CN Communications Office Dietitian’s Corner Use spices and herbs to bring zing to taste buds By Rachel Rhodes Registered Dietitian April is National Gardening Month and time to plant herbs which are easy to grow, especially for beginning gardeners. Substituting herbs for salt and butter allows you to add flavor in healthy ways to your homegrown vegetables and other meals. Herbs are fresh or dried leaves of the plants while spices are ground seeds, roots, fruits, flowers or bark of the plant. Many flowers of the herb plants are also edible. Spices generally add a stronger flavor to dishes and herbs add subtler flavors. Fresh cooking herbs can be dried, frozen and preserved in vinegars and oils for enjoyment all year long. Dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor than fresh, so use less in your recipes. Some herbs that grow well in Oklahoma include thyme, cilantro, basil, oregano, rosemary, fennel, mint, lavender, sage, dill and chives. Thyme, an aromatic herb, compliments soups and poultry and can be easily substituted in dishes. Thyme pairs well with parsley and bay herbs. Add chopped lemon thyme to your salad and refrigerate for 30 minutes and you won't need to add dressing because the tangy lemon flavor will get the job done. Sage is a hardy herb that enhances poultry, beans, corn, sautéed mushrooms, stewed tomatoes, salads and breads. Oregano, another hardy herb, highlights Mexican and Italian cuisine and pairs well with meat and poultry dishes. Try oregano with green beans, onions, potatoes and scrambled eggs. Rosemary, a deliciously fragrant herb, works fine with meat, seafood and poultry dishes, but also with dressings. Add crushed rosemary to homemade bread recipes for melt-in-your-mouth flavor. Dill, a tangy herb, used to season hot or cold soups, seafood, dressings or dips adds unique flavor to many foods. The leaves go well with fish, cream cheese and cucumber. The seeds can be used in baked products like breads as well as potato salads, salmon dishes and bean soups. Dill can also add interest to condiments like mayonnaise and mustard. Rachel Rhodes Fennel, another hardy herb, adds a mild sweet licorice flavor to foods and compliments chicken, fish and meat recipes. Stuff the leaves into oily fish or sprinkle finely chopped on salads, cooked vegetables and Italian dishes. The fennel bulb also can be sliced and eaten raw or cooked. Basil boosts flavor in a variety of fish and meat dishes, but especially Italian dishes like homemade pizza, pasta sauces and tomato-mozzarella cheese salads. Sprinkle leaves over a fresh green salad for a concentrated flavor. Preserve fresh leaves for longer-lasting flavor in oil or vinegar dressings. Chives, a flowering onion, add a mild onion flavor and work with fish and vegetable dishes. Try chopped chives in salads or use as an ingredient replacement for green onions. Experiment with different combinations and varieties of herbs to add zing to your meals. JBC fights fetal alcohol syndrome TAHLEQUAH, Okla. - The Cherokee Nation recently helped launch an awareness campaign about the effects of alcohol abuse in expectant mothers. The Jack Brown Center, an adolescent treatment center, was awarded a grant from the National Organization on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome for educational materials to be developed and distributed within the CN. “We hope to raise awareness on the symptoms of fetal alcohol syndrome,” Mike Fisher, regional treatment center director for JBC, said. “This is a 100 percent prevent- able birth defect that can be avoided completely by the mother choosing not to consume alcohol during pregnancy.” An art contest was held last year to help develop the media materials. The contest was open to anyone in four age categories residing within the CN. The winning artwork was featured on campaign posters and brochures. The artwork was judged by NOFAS representatives with awards going to Taleah Stand and Dallas Thompson. “Their artwork, through these posters and brochures, will not only be seen at each of our clinics, but also the entire Oklahoma City Indian Health Service area,” Fisher said. “NOFAS will also distribute materials nationwide through the Centers for Disease Control out of Atlanta.” Framed sets of each poster will be presented to each clinic beginning this month. For more information, visit www.nofas.org or call the Jack Brown Center at (918) 453-5500. – CN Communications Office Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006 CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 17 18 CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 HEALTHY Community Events DELAWARE COUNTY Healthy Heart Awareness Walk On Friday, February 24, 2006, 28 employees of the Sam Hider Community Clinic participated in a Healthy Heart Luncheon and Awareness Walk in honor of Healthy Heart Month in February. Employees submitted recipes to Reba Thompson, Clinic Dietician, who made suggestions as to how to make the recipe healthier. Employees prepared these dishes with the healthier modifications and brought them to the luncheon for all to enjoy. Reba also presented nutrition information during the meal. Afterwards, employees participated in a 11⁄2 mile around the clinic neighborhood. Thanks to all who participated and made this event successful! SEQUOYAH COUNTY Marble City Health Fair Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006 NATION ADAIR COUNTY Spring Fitness Camp Thirty-three students in Adair County attend the Healthy Nation Spring Youth Fitness Camp March 13th - 15th at Stilwell Middle School. April Up Coming Events Aerobics classes M/W/F Maryetta Gymnastics Center 5:00pm-5:45pm T/TH Zion Old Gymnasium 5:00 pm-5:45pm Contract Julie Kimble at 918-696-8852 Walking Club Wilma P. Mankiller Clinic, beginning April 13 Contact Julie Kimble at 918-696-8852 National Kick Butts Day (Day to stop smoking) 3 on 3 basketball tournament, April 7& 8 Contact Toney McGee at 918-696-8835 Facts About Tobacco use in Oklahoma Every year 5,827 Oklahomans die because of the effects of smoking. • 2,231 die from cancer (43 each week) caused by smoking • 2,078 die from cardiovascular disease (40 each week) caused by smoking • 1,518 die from respiratory disease (29 each week) caused by smoking Smoking-attributable direct medical expenditures in Oklahoma during 1998 were $907,000,000. • $290,000,000 in ambulatory costs • $230,000,000 in hospital costs • $80,000,000 in prescription drug costs • $232,000,000 in nursing home costs • $75,000,000 in other costs Between 1997 and 2001 the average annual smoking-attributable productivity losses in Oklahoma were $1,462,187,000. This does not include expenses due to cigarette-caused burns or secondhand smoke deaths. Seventy-nine percent of Oklahomans report that smoking is not allowed at their work-site. Eighty-seven percent report smoking is not allowed in work areas and eighty-two percent report smoking is not allowed in public About one in four Oklahoma adults smoke. Most want to completely quit smoking. Healthy Nation Mission Statement CHEROKEE COUNTY ATTENTION BOYS & GIRLS Residential Youth Fitness Camp Session I May 22 - May 29 Session II May 29 - June 01 For more information about the camp, call Margie Burkhart 918-453-5440. Cherokee County Smoking Cessation Classes Cherokee Nation P.O. Box 948 Tahlequah, OK 74465 Phone 918-453-5615 Contact Person: Bunner Gray or Regina Christie Cherokee County Smoking Cessation Classes Cherokee County Health Dpt 912 South College Tahlequah, OK 74464 Phone: 918-456-3331 Contact Person: CarolMcKeil Bill Willis Mental Health 1400 Hensley Drive Tahlequah, OK 74464 Phone: 918-207-3038 Contact Person: Louise Micolites W.W. Hastings Hospital 100 South Bliss Tahlequah, OK 74464 Phone: 918-453-5617 Contact Person: June Maher We promote healthy communities through increasing physical activity, improving nutrition, and preventing tobacco abuse. Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006 CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 4h 19 axl Upcoming Runs/Walks April 1 Wish Lemons Run 12th & Boulder, Tulsa April 8 Red Hot Chili Run, Muskogee April 15 Flower Power Run, Muskogee April Wings Member Spotlight Name: Billy Holt Age: 46 Hometown: Westville, Okla. Favorite workout: Either a good mountain bike ride or interval running/walking. Indoors I like to get a good stretch with yoga or I do conditioning with light weight or pilates. How you got started: In college, I ran and did a lot of dance and roller skating. Then I married a cycling enthusiast and fell in love with road cycling. We got into mountain biking in the late 80's. Personal benefits of exercise: I was diagnosed with lupus a few Billy Holt years ago and many people in that situation tend to stop a lot of physical activity, but a good modified exercise program is highly beneficial for anyone with a chronic illness or disability. Exercise at an activity level suited for you can do wonders in relieving physical or mental stress. Long term fitness goal: To still be riding my bike and running with a big smile when I am 100 years old. Billy Holt with Special Olympics student Johnathan Sands April 30 • Sunday OKC Memorial Marathon (sponsoring teams only) May 6 Loyalty Day Run, Westville May 13 Jenks Aquarium Run, Tulsa May 13 Strawberry Festival 5K, Stilwell June 10 WINGS Invitational, Delaware County June 17 WINGS 8K, 5K & 1K, Tahlequah July 1 Huckleberry Festival 5K, Jay July 10 Josh Hatzell Memorial Ram Run, Owasso To request an entry form call: Healthy Nation (Wings Sponsor) 1-800-850-0298 Fitness advice to others: Think of exercise as a gift you give yourself and don't pass up a chance for a good nap. WINGS EVENTS CONTACTS Wings member since: 2000 Trina Jackson at 918-207-3913 Billy enjoys helping out with the Special Olympics Solving the Mealtime Challenge It’s 7 p.m. on a weeknight. You’ve just had a long, busy day. You and other family members have finally made it home. Everyone’s hungry – do you head for the telephone or the kitchen? It’s possible that your lunch was purchased ready-made. One study shows that 24 percent of Americans eat commercially prepared lunches at least five times a week. If you add dinners to that, it's plain to see that we’re eating a lot of meals prepared by the food industry. Unfortunately, meals purchased away from home tend not to contain enough foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains and beans that help protect our health from cancer and other serious diseases. So what do you do? Here are some possible solutions to daily barriers you may encounter for eating more healthful, homemade meals. Problem: “I don't have enough time to cook.” Solution: Buy frozen, chopped vegetables and fruits to defrost in the microwave. Or buy bags of pre-cut and pre-washed fresh vegetables to mix into a salad. Over the weekend, take an hour to cook a large batch of a healthy dish. You can divide it into individual portions and freeze them. You can defrost a meal in the microwave on days you don't have time to cook. Stock a variety of home cooked items in you freezer for later use. Problem: “After a hard day, I prefer to relax by watching TV.” Lu McCraw at 918-453-5260 http://steps.cherokee.org Solution: Put a small TV in the kitchen so you can watch your favorite show while you cook. As you eat more healthful foods you prepare yourself and less take-out fare, you'll find your taste for salty, high-fat and sugary foods will decline in a couple of weeks. Studies of people on healthful diets have found that the longer they avoid such foods, the less they want them. To guide you and your family for health-smart supermarket shopping, preparation and meal planning go to www.aicr.org to review the Homemade for Health brochure. The guide will empower you with the knowledge that when you prepare more of your own food, you can eat for good health and lower risk of chronic diseases. You'll save money, too. Excerpt from Homemade for Health, American Institute for Cancer Research 20 CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006 Lady Indians repeat as 3A State Champions defeat Verdigris 60-45 in the championship game March 11 at the Oklahoma State Fairgrounds Arena. Sophomore guard Angel OKLAHOMA CITY – As the final seconds of the girls Goodrich led all scorers with 21 points, as 3A State Championship game ticked off the clock to secure well as eight rebounds, four assists, two the Lady Indians second consecutive state title, the blocked shots and five steals. Senior forward Sequoyah High School fans began to chant, “Repeat,” and a Shawna Singleterry added 12 points, six few were calling for a “Three-peat.” rebounds, three assists and two steals. The Lady Indians relied on their usual strong defense to Goodrich, who scored 63 points in three games, was selected as the 3A tourney Most Valuable Player. Sequoyah Lady Indians “It’s great winning again and hopefully we can come out and win No. Name Position Height Class again next year,” she said. Goodrich returns, along with 01 Terranne SpottedBear Guard 5-7 Junior starters Lorin Hammer, Cassie 03 Angel Goodrich Guard 5-3 Sophomore Moore and Brea Brewer. 10 Britteny Keys Guard 5-2 Sophomore Ranked No. 1 all season in the 11 Jamie Loy Guard 5-9 Senior CoachesAid.com poll, the Lady 15 Shawna Singleterry Forward 5-7 Senior Indians finished with a 12-game 20 Lorin Hammer Guard 5-4 Sophomore winning streak for a school-record 21 Sadé HorseChief Forward 5-9 Senior 27-2 season. 22 Brea Brewer Forward 5-9 Sophomore The Lady Indians overcame a 23 Cassie Moore Center 6-0 Sophomore determined Marietta team in the 24 Tiffany Teehee Forward 5-7 Senior March 10 semifinals to get to the 25 Sukey Deere Forward 5-9 Freshman championship game. Marietta, 30 Hannah Cornell Guard 5-6 Junior ranked No. 5 in the state, led 57-55 32 Karen Hammer Center 5-10 Sophomore with 1:45 to play, but the Lady Indians went on a 7-2 run in the last Head coach, Bill Nobles; Assistant coach, Jay Herrin; Managers, Maresa 100 seconds to win 62-59. Beason, Kandee Stopp, Mercedes Pigeon and Miranda Witte. “It was a tough game,” Goodrich Senior forward Tiffany Teehee receives the State Champion Class 3A trophy said. “We didn’t come out and play from Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chad Smith at the Oklahoma State like we were supposed to but we Fairgrounds Arena. Teehee scored two points in her final game with the pulled it off.” Lady Indians but averaged three points, three rebounds and one steal per “I knew Marietta was good, and I knew game on the season. (Photos by Bryan Pollard) this (Verdigris) basketball team was good,” ing schedule – Coweta twice, we played Frontier twice, head coach Bill Nobles said. Metro Christian twice, Victory Christian twice, Bixby, Tulsa The 12-0 run against Verdigris at the end of the second East Central. We played a heck of a schedule. Our kids just quarter was pivotal, he said. gutted out this weekend. We had some people sick. We did“That was the key to the game. We were able to find a n’t know if Angel was going to play until four hours before little defensive mix and get some steals, and clearly, that's Thursday’s game due to some back spasms and some neck the key to the game.” problems. Lorin Hammer has been sick, but kids just did Nobles praised the contributions of all his players. fantastic this year; they really did.” “You know everybody focuses on Angel, but we’ve got a When asked about the possibility of a third consecutive lot of people that contribute and they did a great job this championship, Nobles said, “I don’t even want to think weekend. about it, I’ll let you guys deal all about that crystal ball,” he “Shawna Singleterry averages 18 points a game. When said. “Like I said we had to go out and earn this one.” they (Verdigris) went to the zone defense and we went to Singleterry, who played her last game as a Lady Indian, our zone offense she got to go one-on-one post with her was optimistic about their chances. back to the basket. It’s hard to stop her. They got out of “They’ve still got some good players. I think they can get that real quick because I think she scored six points in a it.” row. “If Cassie Moore doesn't score eight points in the All-tournament team fourth quarter last night against Marietta, we’re not here.” “I can’t say enough about Lorin Hammer. Lorin Angel Goodrich, who scored 63 points in three Hammer is a rock steady kid. She does all kinds of things games, was named Most Valuable Player at the that we need her to do. Sadé HorseChief can guard the Oklahoma Secondary Schools Activities Association post. She gets rebounds, she does it all on defense so we Basketball Championships by Coachesaid.com. It’s the got a lot of tools.” second consecutive MVP award for Goodrich, who HorseChief and Singleterry are two of four graduating scored 74 in the three games of the 2005 tourney. She seniors. averaged 21 points, six rebounds, seven assists and six “We’re going to miss Sadé, Shawna, Tiffany Teehee and steals during the season. Jamie Loy, but we'll find a way to replace them. Our kids just worked so hard for this all year,” Nobles Shawna Singleterry was named to the all-tournament said. “I'm just so happy for our fans. I’m happy for our team and Lorin Hammer was an honorable mention Sophomore center Cassie Moore, left, and senior forward kids. Last year it was 4kind of like getting a Christmas selection. Shawna Singleterry trap a Marietta player after an inbounds present you didn’t expect. I knew we were going to be pass. Singleterry scored 21 and Moore scored eight in the good, but I didn’t know if we were going to be good Senior guard T.J. Hooper of the Sequoyah Indians was semifinal game. Singleterry averaged 17 points, six rebounds, enough to do what we did, but we kind of took everybody an honorable mention selection for the boys all-tourney three assists and three steals while Moore averaged four by surprise. This year we really had to earn it. The kids team. Hooper scorched the net for 37 in his final game points, three rebounds, one assist, one block and one steal really went out and dug deep to earn it this year.” against Adair. per game on the season. “We had a big bulls-eye on our back. We played a gruelBy Dan Agent Editor Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006 CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 21 Indians’ quest for gold falls short A low-scoring second quarter led to a 34-24 Adair lead at halftime, but Sequoyah got back into it in the second half with 21 points in the third quarter thanks to some timely shooting and a seven points by Hooper. The Indians led 44MOORE, Okla. – It was one and done for the Sequoyah High School Indians at the Class 3A state basketball tourna39 at one point in the third, but Adair responded with a 12-0 ment losing, 79-72, to the Adair Warriors despite a huge effort run to take a 51-45 lead heading into the fourth quarter. from senior guard T.J. Hooper. In the fourth quarter, Hooper got the Indians back to withOpening the tournament on March 9 at Moore’s Frederick in two after scoring six straight points, but the Warriors Sports Complex, Hooper led all scorers with 37 points includ- answered again with a 5-0 run. Clutch free throw shooting by ing seven three-pointers to end his SHS career, which includ- Littlehead trimmed Adair’s lead to 60-55 and Hooper cut it ed a state title his freshman year. even more when hitting his seventh and final three-pointer of the game. Lance Soap finished with 22 points for Sequoyah as teamMike Soap added a basket with 3:50 left in the game that mates Kyle Littlehead and Mike Soap added seven points and six points respectively. But it wasn’t enough to overcome the gave SHS the lead, 62-61, which they would hold for the next two minutes. But Adair’s White was fouled while shooting at Warriors who were led by Spencer White’s 27 points and Drew Crawford’s 24 points. the 1:55 mark. White's shot counted for two points and then he made his free throw as the Warriors took the lead 68-66. SHS head coach Larry Grigg said going into the game he Adair went on another 5-0 run to go up 73-66 and then on to knew the No. 1-ranked Warriors would be tough. “We played a team that I thought going into the game win 79-72. “We had to use a lot of energy to get ahead, then we got was 50-50, if we won or lost,” he said. “It was a huge disapbehind again, then we had to use a lot of energy to regain the pointment to lose, but when you get that far anything can lead again,” Grigg said.“(It) seemed like the difference was the happen. If we would have played the way we played in the first half. We shot the ball 37 times, but shot 22 percent. I previous game (a 20-point win over Spiro on March 3 in knew we’d get shots and we didn’t get much help out of our the Area IV Championship game), we would have a better bench and a lot of that was inexperience. I thought we were a shot at winning.” little nervous.” The Indians opened the game with a 4-0 lead, but Adair The Sequoyah Indians finished the season 18-9 and winresponded with a seven-point run that was ended by a Lance ning District, Regional and Area titles during the playoffs. Soap jumper. Adair outscored SHS 11-2 over the next three The team will graduate only three players - Hooper, guard T.J. minutes to pull ahead 18-8. Hooper drained consecutive Scott and guard Neal Ponkilla. threes to cut it to 18-14. He scored 10 of the Indians first 14 “He (Hooper) was a prolific scorer, and he averaged more points, but still trailed at the end of the quarter 22-14. points (18) through a season than any kid I’ve coached,” Grigg said.“It’s going to hurt to lose him, but we’ve got some real Sequoyah Indians good kids coming back, and they’ll step up to take care of those No. Name Position Height Class Senior guard T.J. Hooper looks to pass the ball against an 18 points we’re losing.” Adair defender. Hooper led the team with 37 points in his 01 T.J. Scott Guard 5-10 Senior last game with the Indians. (Photo by Bryan Pollard) [email protected] • (918) 453-5358 03 Zach Goodrich Guard 5-6 Junior 11 T.J. Hooper Guard 5-9 Senior 15 Chris Little Forward 5-11 Sophomore (Hooper 14, M. Soap 12, L. Soap 11, WHS 09 04 09 14 - 36 21 Lance Soap Guard 6-0 Junior Littlefield 9, Little 6, Goodrich 3, Travis 3, SHS 15 17 13 09 - 54 22 K.C. Quinton Guard 6-2 Junior Morrison 3, Factor 3, Ponkilla 3, Scott 2, (Hooper 14, J. Travis 11, M. Soap 9, Ponkilla 23 Kurt Rogers Forward 6-3 Junior McDonald 1) 5, Stanley 3, L. Soap 2, Winney 2, Littlefield 24 Michael Soap Guard 6-3 Sophomore Boys quarterfinals, 3A Playoffs at Moore, 2, Morrison 2, Factor 2, McDonald 2) 25 Kyle Littlehead Forward 6-1 Junior March 9 • (18-9) vs. Adair Area IV regional championship at 31 Dallas Morrison Center 6-4 Junior SHS 14 10 21 27 - 72 Muskogee, Feb 25 • (17-8) vs. Keys District Championship at Muskogee, Feb. 33 Jesse Factor Forward 6-5 Junior AHS 22 12 17 28 - 79 KHS 10 04 11 14 - 39 20 34 Dale Winney Forward 6-0 Junior (Hooper 37, L. Soap 22, Littlehead 7, M. SHS 15 17 16 19 - 67 • (15-8) vs. Vian 35 Neal Ponkilla Guard 6-0 Senior Soap 6) (Hooper 18, Morrison 10, Travis 9, Little 8, VHS 13 10 17 14 - 54 40 Nathan Stanley Forward6-5 Sophomore Factor 8, Littlehead 6, Goodrich 3, M. Soap SHS 27 27 12 15 - 81 44 Guy McDonald Center 6-5 Junior Area IV championship at Muskogee Civic 3, L. Soap 2) (Little 17, L. Soap 10, Scott 9, Travis 8, M. 55 Jason Travis Guard 6-0 Sophomore Center, March 3 • (18-8) vs. Spiro Soap 7, Hooper 6, Morrison 6, Stanley 6, Head coach, Larry Grigg; Assistant coach, Jay Herrin; Spiro 16 09 11 14 - 50 Area IV regional game at Muskogee, Feb. Quinton 3, Littlehead 3, Goodrich 2, Managers, Brandi Walker, Raven Springwater and Bryan Vann. SHS 13 18 23 16 - 70 23 • (16-8) vs. Wilburton Ponkilla 2, McDonald 2) By Travis Snell Staff Writer SHS Indians SHS Lady Indians Girls Class 3A State Championship at OKC Fairgrounds, March 11 (27-2) vs. Verdigris SHS 13 21 12 14 - 60 VHS 09 09 12 15 - 45 (Goodrich 21, Singleterry 12, Hammer 8, Brewer 8, Moore 5, HorseChief 2, Teehee 2, Loy 2) 3A Semifinals at SNU Sawyer Center, March 10 (26-2) vs. Marietta SHS 13 12 14 23 - 62 MHS 08 12 20 19 - 59 (Goodrich 22, Singleterry 21, Moore 8, Hammer 8, Brewer 3) 3A Quarterfinals at SNU Sawyer Center, March 9 (25-2) vs. Perkins-Tryon SHS 18 21 17 11 - 67 PHS 10 09 10 14 - 43 (Goodrich 20, Singleterry 18, Hammer 8, HorseChief 7, Teehee 6, Brewer 5, Moore 2, Deere 1) Area IV championship at Muskogee, March 3 (24-2) vs. Bethel SHS 22 20 20 19 - 81 BHS 09 17 16 13 - 55 (Singleterry 19, Goodrich 18, Hammer 14, Brewer 11, Teehee 6, Moore 5, Deere 2, HorseChief 2, Keys 2, Loy 2) Area IV regional game at Muskogee, Feb. 23 (22-2) vs. Wilburton SHS 19 12 21 10 - 62 WHS 09 10 04 06 - 29 (Singleterry 20, Goodrich 20, Hammer 5, HorseChief 5, Loy 3, Teehee 3, Keys 3, SpottedBear 3) Area IV regional championship at Muskogee, Feb. 25 (23-2) vs. Atoka SHS 16 19 11 22 - 68 AHS 09 08 11 05 - 33 (Goodrich 30, Singleterry 14, Keys 11, HorseChief 4, Hammer 3, Moore 3, Teehee 2, Deere 1) Districts Championship at Muskogee, Feb. 20 (21-2) vs. Vian SHS 09 20 16 18 - 63 VHS 02 02 09 22 - 35 (Goodrich 19, Keys 11, Deere 10, Singleterry 7, Hammer 6, Moore 5, Deerinwater 2, HorseChief 2, SpottedBear 1) CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006 THE CHEROKEE NATION CONGRATULATES BRYAN POLLARD - C HEROKEE P HOENIX Sequoyah High School PHOTOGRAPHY BY 22 2006 State Champs! 3 - A G I RL S Thanks for an Outstanding and Exciting Season! School of Choice Administered by Cherokee Nation Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006 CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 23 Track teams begin season against 5A competition Ashley Ross placed sixth in the 800meter run with a time of 2:38.55 while Andrea Walkingstick finished 11th at BROKEN ARROW, Okla. – The 2:45.41. That race preceded the 1600Sequoyah High School track teams had a meter run where Riddle placed sixth at rough start for the 2006 season March 3 in 5:56.31. Broken Arrow facing Class 5A competition. In the 3200-meter run, Nicole The Class 2A SHS boys and girls teams Laconsello placed just outside of the points finished last at the meet, but the girls faced in the seventh spot with a time of 13:31.16 eight 5A teams, one 4A team and one while teammates Courtney Reeder and other 2A team. The boys competed against Kellie Brown finished 11th and 12th nine 5A teams and one 4A team. Coupled respectively at 14:59.79 and 15:12.16. with the fact that the teams didn’t have During the field events, Kate Scott fintheir full rosters, assistant track coach ished fifth in the girls high jump with a James Nells said he expected the finishes. jump of 4-08 while teammate Sara “We don’t have everybody here,” Nells Holcomb tied for eighth place at 4-04. said.“We definitely could have scored Nells said he expected Darcy Scraper, who more points if we had (girl basketball play- qualified for the 2005 state meet, to return ers) Jamie (Loy) and Sadé (HorseChief) to the team soon. Holland Riddle earned and a few others. It sure made a difference, two points for SHS at fifth place in the but we’re not too worried about it because shot put with a throw of 32-01 while teamthe season is just starting and we’re trying mate Chrissy Flynn threw 27-03 for a to see where everybody is going to match ninth-place finish. up and get them running.” “They performed about what we (he For the Lady Indians, Kayla Sequichie and track coach Sam HorseChief) thought and Jessica Tabor led things off in the 100- they were capable of at this point,” Nells meter dash as Sequichie placed 24th at said.“They did quite well, and they knew 14.85 seconds and Tabor finished 32nd at the competition was going to be tough. 16.92. Brittany Ummerteskee finished 30th They basically were looking at larger in the 200-meter dash before Alisa Riddle, schools, and larger schools have more athSequichie and Raenell Wilson stepped on letes they can choose from whereas we're the track for the 400-meter dash. Riddle limited.” ran well enough for fourth place at 1 For the boys, Dion Francis ran a 15.07 minute, 2.53 seconds while Sequichie fin100-meter dash, which placed him 39th ished 11th at 1:09.15 and Wilson finished overall as he kicked things off for 21st at 1:18.24. Sequoyah. He also finished 40th in the By Travis Snell Staff Writer Sequoyah runner Courtney Reeder turns the corner during the 3200-meter run at Broken Arrow High School’s March 4 track meet in Tulsa, Okla. Reeder finished 11th in the race with a time of 14:59.79. (Photo by Travis Snell) 200-meter dash at 29.04. In the 400-meter dash, Jerrad Dry ran a 1:01.03, which put him at No. 33 overall. However in the 1600-meter run, SHS had a strong showing as three runners finished in the top 12. Ryan Doyeto finished eighth at 4:54.97, Bryan Vann finished 10th at 4:57.93 and Travis Wickliffe finished 12th at 5:08.46. Doyeto and Vann also competed in the 3200-meter run with Doyeto beating out Vann for sixth place at 10:28.29. Vann finished at 10:39.73 for seventh place. Lee Chouteau also ran an 11:05 two-mile race in the second heat. “Ryan and Bryan, they are picking up where they left off last year as is Lee,” Nells said.“Last year, Lee’s PR (personal record) was an 11:01, and I’m quite happy with Ryan and Bryan with their two-mile times.” Overall, Nells said he thought the boys team performed well for its first outing and the coaches now know what the team needs to concentrate on to get better. He also said that if everything turns out the way he and HorseChief plan, the boys team should have another strong 2-mile relay team if it gets (basketball players) Brett Littlebear and Chris Little to go along with Doyeto and Vann. The teams were slated to finish out the month with a March 17 trip to Tulsa Union before hosting the Sequoyah relays a week later. [email protected] • (918) 453-5358 ORES basketball tournament features CN-jurisdiction schools By Travis Snell Staff Writer SEMINOLE, Okla. – Several elementary schools located within the Cherokee Nation’s jurisdiction recently competed in the Organization of Rural Elementary Schools state basketball tournament, with two schools winning state titles. The ORES state basketball tournament features schools with grades kindergarten through eighth. ORES was founded in 1984 as the Oklahoma Organization of Dependent Schools. ORES is the oldest rural school organization in Oklahoma and has maintained as its primary goal the promotion, protection and preservation or rural elementary schools. In the Division III Girls Division, Dahlonegah (Adair County) defeated Nashoba 35-21 in the Feb. 23 quarterfinal round at Varnum High School. Also in that round, Kenwood (Delaware County) lost to Haywood 34-42. Dahlonegah was eliminated the next day in the semifinals 35-47 by Fanshawe, which went on to win the Division III state title held at Seminole State College. In the Division III Boys Division, Dahlonegah lost 35-51 to Tom in the quarterfinals Feb. 23 at Varnum. Kenwood’s boys also lost 42-46 to Bell (Adair County) in the quarterfinals. Bell would lose the next day in the semifinals to Bearden 39-60 at Varnum. The Division II Girls Division featured Peggs (Cherokee County) beating Liberty (Sequoyah County) in the Feb. 23 quarterfinals 36-32 at Seminole State College. Moseley (Delaware County) defeated Peavine (Adair County) 33-27 in the quarterfinals at Seminole and Hodgen the next day 28-27 in the semifinals before losing to Twin Hills 30-41 in the state finals at Seminole. Twin Hills made it to the finals by beating Peggs in the semifinals, 28-27. In the Division II Boys Division, Peggs beat Hodgen 55-37 in the Feb. 23 quarterfinals held at Seminole State College. Rocky Mountain (Adair County) beat Pioneer 4732 in the same round at Seminole. Liberty’s boys lost to Oak Grove 40-30 in the quarterfinals, and Cleora (Delaware County) lost to Justice (Rogers County) 38-40. In the semifinals, Rocky Mountain beat Peggs 4834 before going on to win the state championship 57-31 over Oak Grove. Oak Grove advanced to the finals by beating Justice 5039. The girls’ Division I quarterfinals featured Zion (Adair County) beating FrinkChambers 36-30 on Feb. 23 in Shawnee, Okla. Maryetta (Adair County) beat Whitebead 39-15 in the same round. The two teams met the next day in the semifinals with Maryetta winning 52-28. Maryetta went on to win the Division I state title over Oakdale 46-37 the next day at Seminole. The boys’ Division I bracket saw JustusTiawah (Rogers County) beat Oakdale 3026 in the Feb. 23 quarterfinals at Shawnee. Briggs (Cherokee County) lost to North Rock Creek 32-34 in the same round. However, Cherokee County was well represented with Woodall beating Maryetta 3832 in the quarters. The next day in the semifinals at Seminole, Frink-Chambers beat Justus-Tiawah 45-41 and Woodall beat North Rock Creek 31-28 in overtime. Woodall lost the next day in the championship round 31-20 to Frink-Chambers at Seminole State College. [email protected] • (918) 453-5358 Briggs Elementary School’s basketball includes front row, from left, Travis Fuentes, Jeremy Dry and Kenlee Stopp. Middle row, from left, Taylor Murphy, Jordan Howard, Matt Santana, Trent Johnston and Justin Ford. Back row, from left, Coach Mickey O'Donnell, Dillion Towie, Josh Hamilton, Trey Berryhill, Jaron Tsosie, Rusty Peace, Jeremy Sixkiller and assistant coach Eugene Stopp 24 CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 Sports Briefs Sequoyah football players earn postseason honors TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – The Sequoyah High School football team had several players receive postseason honors for their performances during the 2005 season. Running back Travis Boswell was named the District 2A-7 Most Valuable Player along with being selected to the All-District Team and All-Area Team. Quarterback Nathan Stanley was named the district’s Newcomer of the Year and was named to the All-Area Team. Other Indians who were named to the All-District Team included Nate Cline, Derek Foreman, Ryan Sierra and Justin Marshall. Haskell University to host 12th annual softball tournament LAWRENCE, Kan. – Haskell Indians Nations University will be hosting its 12th annual Haskell Commencement Indian Men's Fast-Pitch Softball Tournament May 1314 at the Clinton Lake Sports Complex. Tournament directors are accepting team entries. Fees are $180 (money order only) and will be accepted until May 8. The championship team will receive $700 and commemorative pullovers while the second-place team will get $500 and T-shirts. The third-place team will receive $300 and T-shirts. Players selected to the All-Tournament Team will receive T-shirts and the tournament’s most valuable player will get a bat bag and a jacket. For more information, contact Angela Barnett at (785) 749-8402 or [email protected], Kerry Girty at (785) 832-6600 or [email protected], or Robert Berryhill at (785) 841-1292 or [email protected]. Cherokee citizen competes in Cross Country Championships NEW YORK – Cherokee citizen Clay Mayes III recently placed 41st out of 66 runners at the 2006 USA Cross Country Championships as part of the Wings of America/Circle Earth all-Indian Junior Cross Country Team. Mayes ran the junior men 8 km (4.96 miles) race course Feb. 19 through the Bronx’s Cortland Park hoping to place in the top six in order to represent the U.S. at the World Cross Country Championships, which will be held in April at Fukuoka, Japan. The 18-year-old from Claremore, Okla., was the only Cherokee citizen named to the Wings junior mens team. The other four members consisted of three Navajo citizens and one Crow citizen. The Wings junior womens team consisted of five Navajo runners. Mayes finished the race in 26:08 for 41st place individually and second best on the Wings team behind Navajo citizen Dustin Martin. Martin, 16, ran a 25:31. The mens junior Wings team won the team competition with a low-score of 13 points, beating the second-place team by 14 points. Catoosa casino to host NAC-qualifying tournament TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. – Native American Cup officials and the Cherokee Casino and Resort in Catoosa, Okla., recently announced a partnership resulting in the opportunity for Native American golfers from Oklahoma to play in the 2006 Native American Cup. Cherokee Hills Golf Club, owned and operated by the Cherokee Casino and Resort, will host the 2006 Cherokee Casino Resort Oklahoma Golf Classic to be held May 8. The event, a 36-hole scratch tournament, will send the top 13 finishers to Michigan in the fall to compete in the Tribal Division or the Association Division as Team Oklahoma. The golf classic is open to all citizens of a federally recognized Indian tribe. Women are eligible to play and will play from the women’s tees. The tournament fee is $75 per golfer, which includes green fees and cart fees. The event will be limited to the first 100 golfers that pay and have their eligibility verified. Registration and payment will only be available through the NAC Web site at www.nativeamericancup.org. Sacred Run makes way through Oklahoma, CN SAN RAFAEL, Calif. – Indian activist Dennis Banks is leading the 28th Annual International Sacred Run, which made its way in March throughout Oklahoma and the Cherokee Nation. Banks is leading the 71-day run that began Feb. 11 from San Francisco and crossed into Oklahoma from March 1 to March 14. It covered parts of Cherokee Nation on March 14 when it made its way from Tulsa to Fort Smith, Ark. The 4,081-mile run should be completed in Washington, D.C., on Earth Day – April 22. The Sacred Run team includes international long-distance runners and walkers who are running and walking shifts to cross 12 states and nearly 4,000 miles. For more information call Linda Rose at (415) 258-4844 or visit www.sacredrun.org. Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006 Looking for Housing? Move in Special* $250 Cash 00 Jay Senior Housing 1301 W. Washbourne Street • Jay, Okla. (918) 253-8100 Toll Free (866) 652-8885 Immediate Rental Assistance Available* *Must be 62 years or older and meet income guidelines. *Move in Special expires April 30, 2006 TRAIN FOR YOUR FUTURE Medical Office Specialist Program Medical Transcription Medical Coding Medical Billing Talking Leaves Job Corps offers: Hands-on training Individual attention Career counseling Paid work experience Tours every Thursday For more information call Outreach & Admissions 1-800-256-9959 or (918) 456-9959, ext. 3310 Information online at: http://talkingleaves.jobcorps.gov Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006 PHOTOGRAPHY BY B RYAN P OLLARD - CHEROKEE PHOENIX CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 25 2006 3-A BOYS BASKETBALL AREA CHAMPS • 5-TIME STATE QUALIFIER CONGRATULATIONS Sequoyah High School POWER LIFTING TEAM MEMBERS QUALIFY FOR STATE Hunter Cunningham, Micah O’Field, and Anthony Beaver, qualified to compete in the state power lifting competition. All three finished in the top 10 in the state. All three are sophomores and this is only the second year for SHS to have a power lifting team. Pictured above - several team members show their skills at a meet. FROM THE School of Choice Administered by Cherokee Nation 26 CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006 Immersion Program increases Cherokee fluency By Travis Snell Staff Writer TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – A classroom door leading to the Cherokee Nation’s Child Development Center has a small plastic stop sign with multi-colored Cherokee letters around it. The letters spell the words “Immersion Class,” “English Stops Here” and “Cherokee Only.” Its message is exactly that for students and teachers who pass through the door – only Cherokee is spoken in the classroom. Each school day, 3- and 4-yearolds and kindergarteners are immersed in the Cherokee language by their Cherokee-speaking teachers. The goal is to teach the children to speak, understand and write Cherokee as part of the tribe's language revitalization plan. Sherry Holcomb, an Immersion Program curriculum specialist, said the first immersion class began in 2001 for 3- and 4-yearolds. The kindergarten class is less Sherry Holcomb than two months away from wrapping up its first year. And later this fall, those kindergarten students will become the program's initial first-graders before moving on to the initial secondgrade class in 2007. Wyman Kirk, coordinator of Northeastern State University’s Cherokee Education Degree Program, said this idea stems from the tribe’s language plan. When Principal Chief Chad Smith came into office, he charged CN employees Dr. Gloria Wyman Kirk Sly and Margaret Raymond to begin the language revitalization. Sly and Raymond soon adopted a method from the Hawaiians who had been using language immersion for more than 25 years and getting positive results. “They looked at what the Cherokee Nation had done in the past such as community classes,” Kirk said.“It never produced a fluent speaker. Throughout 20-plus years of language work in those venues, no fluent speaker had ever been produced, not one to our knowledge.” So in 2001, the tribe got a language grant to survey Cherokee citizens about the language. According to the survey, the people wanted to focus on Cherokee youth learning the language starting at pre-school age and move to upper-elemen- Immersion school teacher Eddie Bird works on a project with kindergarten students. (Photos tary age. by Travis Snell) “From that data, a plan was public schools and lost what the language they learned here,” put together on how to meet these needs people had and the needs of our language revitalization,” he said.“The immersion she said.“A lot of those students when we talk to them now, just look at us and they don’t understand what we are saying.” classroom had already been going on during this period, but The program accepts applications year round from parents nobody had really sat down and figured out what our real who want their children in the immersion classes, she said. As goal was. And the plan really solidified what our strategy is a student leaves the program, the applicant next in line takes and what we were trying to do. Essentially that is to have a the former student’s spot. She said the program is currently Cherokee immersion school from pre-school to sixth grade.” accepting applications for the pre-school, kindergarten and The goal is to establish an education system where somefirst grades. one could enter the immersion program at pre-school level Along with an application, parents must submit their chiland graduate with a Ph.D. speaking nothing but the Cherokee dren’s birth certificate, immunization records and Certified language, Kirk said. “We want these kids to have Cherokee as their language of Degree of Indian Blood card. However, Holcomb said the communication,” he said.“We want it to be the language they child doesn’t have to be Native American to attend. The school is open to anyone interested. prefer to speak in.” Attendance for the kindergarten and first-grade class is free Holcomb, a fluent Cherokee speaker, said adding grades but a $52 monthly fee accompanies attendance in the preeach year is needed because when children who left the Immersion Program’s pre-school class entered public schools, school class. For more information contact Sherry Holcomb at (918) they forgot what Cherokee they learned. “Before we started the kindergarten class, the children who 207-3863 or [email protected]. finished our 3- and 4-year (old children’s) program entered [email protected] • (918) 453-5358 Program makes difference in Indian education longest running Indian education program. “It began with the Snyder Act in 1934 and it continues to provide special supplemental TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – The Cherokee funding for the unique educational needs of Nation Johnson–O’Malley Program educates Indian students 3 (years old) through 12th and assists nearly 22,000 students within the grade.” tribe’s 14-county jurisdictional area. She said the program helps students in Introduced Feb. 2, 1934, in the U.S. Senate many ways. by California Sen. Hiram W. Johnson as the “Our big emphasis in JOM is to promote Johnson–O’Malley Act, the bill supplemented and revitalize the language with all of the local school funds with federal assistance to special projects we do.” educate Indian children in public schools. The program also helps students with U.S. Rep. Thomas P. O’Malley had authored a schools supplies, ACT testing, cap and gown similar resolution for federal funding for fees, student fees for designated memberIndian children that was incorporated into ships within the school and educational the act. incentives that are tied to academic progress. JOM also provides other activities for stuShelley Butler-Allen, associate director of CN Education Services, said JOM is the dents. By Gregg Simmons Staff Writer “We have a cultural component where we provide dollars for cultural and language instruction,” Allen said.“We provide for culturally appropriate books in libraries. We pay for schools that are interested in being involved in our competitions like language bowl, challenge bowl and activities and supplies to prepare for those.” JOM pays for cultural presentations and involvement in other groups. “We pay for memberships into Indian student organizations such as the Oklahoma Indian Student Honor Society, or any kind of Indian club they have within their school system.” JOM helps students attend competitions in Indian identified activities and JOM student awards banquets or assemblies. JOM also funds the Youth Leadership Institute that takes students on a two-week history learning experience during the summer. “We focus on learning the Cherokee Language culture history and government. We travel to historic sites of the Cherokee,” Allen said.“The main emphasis for this historic journey is that we feel like our children have only heard Trail of Tears and beyond. We want them to know that there was one Cherokee people originally. There are three federally recognized tribes now. Knowing where they came from helps them know who they are now and where they are going in the future.” [email protected] • (918) 453-5351 Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006 CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 27 Budget cuts could end education program Scholarships available to Cherokee citizens By Gregg Simmons Staff Writer TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – The Cherokee Nation Johnson-O’Malley Program received discouraging news when President Bush’s 2007 proposed budget was released. JOM’s proposed budget was $0. Shelley Butler-Allen, associate director of CN Education Services, said the proposed budget was zeroed out once in the 1980s and cut by 50 percent last year but funding was restored both times. If the budget is not restored this year she said it will have a huge impact in the CN’s 14-county jurisdictional area. “It will affect communities because it will affect those people who are directly working within those school systems,” Allen said. “It will dismantle the community IECs (Indian Education Committees), all of our 73 currently funded sub-grant programs and will eliminate all of our programming including special projects, language and cultural programs within their schools. It will eliminate direct services for 22,000 students.” She said the current sub-grant funding to local schools is approximately $1.2 million. “When you speak of total elimination you speak of elimination of the jobs not only at some of the schools but within the Cherokee Nation, too,” Allen said. “We won’t have a department. It will no longer exist.” Allen said new school construction was one of the reasons for the proposed budget cut. “They needed to find more monies for BIA (Bureau of Indian Affairs) school construction,” she said. “They are placing more monies into the BIA-controlled schools. BIA-controlled schools have 48,000 students on their roster versus 325,000 JOM students that attend public schools.” She said she does not agree with another justification. “BIA and the administration are saying it is duplicative in services,” Allen said. “It is not duplicative in services. There is a Title 7 program through the Department of Education but they have to strictly adhere to No Child Left Behind where as JOM, which is funded by the BIA, does not. We do not provide the same services as the Title 7 program.” She said she has found some support for the program in Washington D.C. “We have some congressional support but it's from the people we always have support from – the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs,” Allen said. Allen said people can help by urging congressional support for JOM budget restoration by writing U.S. senators and representatives, Senate Indian Affairs Committee and the Interior Subcommittee. TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – The Cherokee Nation’s Higher Education Office awards scholarships to selected CN citizens attending accredited colleges or universities. To apply for these funds, new and continuing students must mail or hand-deliver a complete application to the Higher Education office. Mailed applications must be postmarked no later than June 14, 2006. No late or emergency applications will be accepted. [email protected] • (918) 453-5351 CN Pell Supplementation Scholarship For tribal citizens eligible for the CN Pell Scholarship who live within the CN service area, a formula is used to calculate supplemental funding – CN Pell Scholarship award plus federal Pell Grant must be less than $1,000 to qualify for the supplemental funding. Students will be funded the difference to bring the total to $1,000. If funding is equal to or greater $1,000 then no supplement will be awarded. Verification from the financial aid office will be required. Contact: Local U.S. senators and representatives and the following: Sen. John McCain, chairman Senate Indian Affairs Committee 836 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 Fax (202) 228-2589 Sen. Byron L. Dorgan, vice-chair Senate Indian Affairs Committee 322 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 Fax (202) 224-1193 Sen. Charles H. Taylor, chairman Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Room B-308 Rayburn House Office Bdg. Washington, DC 20515-6023 Sen. Norman D. Dicks, ranking member Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Room B-308 Rayburn House Office Bdg. Washington, DC 20515-6023 CN Pell Scholarship All CN tribal citizens who qualify for a Pell Grant are eligible for Bureau of Indian Affairs scholarship funding. This funding is divided equally among all Pell-eligible students who complete the application process. Haskell Indian Nations University Scholarship CN citizens who are not eligible for Pell grant funding may apply to attend Haskell Indian Nations University in Lawrence, Kan. The CN will fund enrollment fees at Haskell. This is the equivalent of a full scholarship including room and board to any Cherokee who wishes to attend Haskell. CN Undergraduate Scholarship Program CN citizens who are permanent residents of Oklahoma and who are not qualified for Pell funding can apply for CN Scholarship funding to the accredited college of their choice. Funding is not available to CN citizens living outside Oklahoma. CN Graduate Scholarship Program Scholarships of $1,000 per semester are awarded to students enrolled in six or more credit hours-per-semester and $500-persemester scholarships are awarded to students enrolled in less than six credit hours per semester. These scholarships are competitive and awarded based on eligibility criteria and preferences. Coffeyville Community College Native American Leadership Program Coffeyville Community College in Coffeyville, Kan., is introducing a new Native American Leadership Program beginning with its fall 2006 semester. This program will provide a curriculum to Native American students focusing on courses to help build future leaders and mentors in the Native American community. Program scholarships are available for members of federally recognized tribes. This scholarship provides tuition and loans of books for qualified students. Students who qualify for a Presidential Scholarship, awarded by the college president, will also receive a $500-per-semester stipend to assist with dorm expenses. The Native American Leadership Association is an additional source to provide students with fellowship and support and serves as an extra-curricular organization. NALA members coordinate and host cultural events and activities for the college and provide cultural opportunities to the Coffeyville community. For more information, visit www.coffeyville.edu. or contact Native American Program Recruiter Bethany Murrell at 1800-782-4732, ext. 2092, or [email protected]. The Northeastern State University Native American Scholarship Resource Center, in Tahlequah, Okla., assists American Indian students in locating scholarships, grants and other financial aid. Information is available through the NSU Center for Tribal Studies at (918) 456-5511, ext. 4350. Other universities and colleges provide scholarships or special incentives for Native Americans or Cherokee citizens. For more information contact the CN Higher Education Office at (918) 453-5000, exts. 5465 or 3948, or 1-800-256-0671, Option 5. Practice Cherokee - Animals GsQ \y aW Ji Wa - ya A - wi Bird Wolf Deer Yn A] l {l Yo - na Sa - lo - li Su - li Bear Squirrel Buzzard -s- gwa 28 CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 Cherokee Nation Industries is a leader in the aerospace and telecommunications industry because quality people, making quality products, make the difference for companies like… NASA • Boeing Lockheed Martin Vought• SBC • L3 General Dynamics We also supply medical personnel worldwide to staff U.S. Army, U.S. Air Force, and U.S. Navy medical facilities. For more information about CNI call us at (918) 696-3151 or visit: www.cnicnd.com Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006 Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006 CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 29 ‘Trail of Tears’ documentary to premiere in Tahlequah TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – “Trail of Tears: Cherokee Legacy,” the two-hour documentary just released by Rich-Heape Films Inc. of Dallas will have its public premiere on April 14 at the Dream Theatre, 312 Muskogee Ave, in Tahlequah. A private reception and showing for the cast and filmmakers, sponsored by the Cherokee Heritage Center and the Cherokee Casino, will be held at 6 p.m. and 7 p.m., respectively. Actors, actresses, extras, stand-ins and volunteers who participated in the production of the film are invited to celebrate at the premiere. Reservations are required for the reception. To make reservations, call (888) 999-6007, ext. 228. The first public showing is scheduled at 9:30 p.m. after the private showing. Beginning April 15, the film will be shown at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., with matinees at 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday through April 20. The high definition film, now available on DVD, documents the forced removal in 1838 of the Cherokee Nation from the southeastern United States to Indian Territory, now Oklahoma. Wes Studi, Cherokee actor known for his role as Geronimo in the film of the same name, as well as performances in “The Last of the Mohicans” and “Dances With Wolves,” presents the film on camera in Cherokee with English subtitles. Famed actor James Earl Jones narrates. Additional celebrity voices include actor James Garner, singer Crystal Gayle, actor John Buttram and former Virginia Gov. Douglas Wilder, who read diary and journal excerpts. On-camera interviews include numerous historians from major universities. “A Cherokee (Studi) recounts this shameful chapter in American history,” said Steven R. Heape, executive producer and CN citizen.“This is no ‘Hollywoodization’ of an American holocaust. The Trail of Tears actually drove the Five Civilized Tribes – Cherokee, Choctaw, Seminole, Chickasaw and Muscogee Creek – from their native lands.” Heape and his partner, Chip Richie, who co-produced and directed the film, spent seven years researching and developing the story. It took another three years to raise funding to produce the chronicle of an event often referred to as “America’s darkest hour.” “My reason for wanting to accurately tell this story goes back to the day in 1985 when I received my tribal citizenship. My uncle Gene Heape of Dallas sat me down and told me the story of the Trail of Tears. In proper Cherokee culture, this was his responsibility and is ‘the way’ in which younger Cherokees learn the true story of our people.” The documentary is endorsed by the Cherokee Nation, headquartered in Tahlequah, and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, Cherokee, N.C. “Special acknowledgement should go to Principal Chiefs Chad Smith of the Cherokee Nation and Michell Hicks of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians for their vision and Washington University powwow to showcase Cherokee’s artwork sen by the university as its main artwork for the 2006 powwow. “We were all so happy for her, and she KEYS, Okla. – Washington University’s was happy because that’s a huge honor,” American Indian Student Association in Dana said. St. Louis recently selected a Cherokee girl’s At Keys, Christie is part of the Cherokee painting as its showcase artwork for the language and challenge bowl teams, which school’s 16th annual powwow. compete annually in knowledge of Hvresse Christie Blair Tiger, a sixth Cherokee history and the syllabary. She grader at Keys Public School, is the daugh- also represented the school in February’s ter of Native American artist Dana Tiger Cherokee County Spelling Bee, is on her and Donnie Blair. The 12-year-old school’s academic team and even plays the Cherokee/Creek/Seminole girl is also the coronet in band. granddaughter of famed Indian artist In 2005, Christie won first place for her Jerome Tiger. painting “Kamama Beautiful Butterfly” The university chose Christie’s painting and second place for “Selu” in a nine“Powwow Time” as its main piece of art to county art competition. Like other headline and advertise the April 8 powCherokee artists, she knows and uses the wow in St. Louis. Cherokee syllabary in her artwork. Dana said she and her daughter would Despite being only 12, she has also attend the powwow to sign T-shirts the taught a few classes. Former Principal painting adorns and to sell other pieces of Chief Wilma Mankiller enlisted Christie’s Christie’s art. help to teach a Topeka, Kan., school about “She has some originals, and I’ve repro- Cherokee culture, and Christie and her duced some of her award-winning artbrother Lisan also facilitated art classes on work into cards, note cards and small Muscogee Creek Day at the Five Civilized prints.” Tribes Museum in Muskogee, Okla. Dana added that Christie got into art by In her free time, Christie likes to take picking up art supplies that were strewn hip hop dance lessons, tend to her 15 cats around the house because of her own artand research Manga art, the artwork used work. in Japanese comics. “I remember Christie, not even 2 years AISA’s 16th annual powwow is schedold, sitting at my art table and finger painting for the longest time – for hours.” uled for 10 a.m., April 8 in the University She said Christie was excited when she Field House on the Washington University found out that “Powwow Time” was chocampus. By Travis Snell Staff Writer dedication to educating people about tribal history and the Trail of Tears,” Heape said. “And our appreciation is manifold for hundreds of Indians, actors, military re-enactors, volunteers, film crew members and the civil servants and citizens of dozens of towns that contributed to this movie,” Heape said.“They, too, deserve recognition for their patience and passion for this historic project.” James Neel of James Neel Music House in Dallas composed the original score with music contribution by the musical group “Walela” (Hummingbird in Cherokee) – Rita and Priscilla Coolidge and Laura Satterfield. For information about tickets to the premiere, call (918) 453-2822. “The Trail of Tears: Cherokee Legacy” DVD can be ordered online at www.richheape.com by calling toll free 888-600-2922. Find past issues of the Cherokee Phoenix online www.cherokee.org Your Cottage Hideaway The beauty and romance of nature surrounds the heart and mind at Room At The Top Of The World, offering the peace and seclusion you’ve been looking for. A unique and calming atmosphere envelops you as you walk in to soft music and the aroma of burning candles. Tucked away on 10 private acres, Room At The Top offers many amenities and is beautifully decorated with two bedrooms, two living areas, satellite TV and stereo, pool table, hot tub with private deck, fully furnished kitchen and dining area, plus access to swimming, fishing and floating and trails for hiking and exploring. Isn’t it time for you to say: I’ve got a Room At The Top Of The World Tonight! For Reservations Call (918) 456-6883 • www.roomatthetopoftheworld.com 30 CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006 COMMUNITY CALENDAR April 1 April 10 Cherokee clothing reproduction class Tribal Council meeting Cherokee Heritage Center, Tahlequah, Okla. $30 • 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. • Call (918) 456-6007 W. W. Keeler Tribal Complex, Tahlequah 6 p.m. April 22 April 6, 13, 20 and 27 Cherokee pottery class Adult Education Classes Cherokee Heritage Center, Tahlequah Cost is $40 and includes materials 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call (918) 456-6007 Wheeler Estates Housing Authority, Porum, Okla. 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Call (918) 776-0416 or (918) 458-0484 John F. Henderson Public Library, Westville, Okla. 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Call (918) 696-3124 or (918) 458-0484 Trail of Tears Association Oklahoma Chapter meeting and Reception April 6 Food Handlers Class 115 W. North St., Tahlequah 3 p.m. or 6 p.m. Free class, must register to attend, limited to 12 participants Call Lisa West (918) 453-5134, Lovetta Phipps (918) 453-5130 or Jerry Bigfeather (918) 453-5123 April 6, 7 and 8 34th Annual Symposium on the American Indian Northeastern State University, Tahlequah Call (918) 456-5511, ext. 4350 Tsa La Gi Community Room, behind Restaurant of the Cherokees • Meeting at 10 a.m. Reception at 2:30 p.m., Cherokee Heritage Center (918) 341-4689 Rev. Steve Foreman Grave Marking and Honoring Ceremony Park Hill Cemetery • 2 p.m. Trail of Tears Association Oklahoma Chapter (918) 341-4689 To have an event or meeting listed, fax information to (918) 458-6136 attention “Community Calendar.” Deadline is April 9 for May events. Read the Cherokee Phoenix online at: www.cherokeephoenix.org Vinita, April 22nd • Kansas, Okla. May 27th Claremore, June 17th • Sallisaw City Park, July 22 Bell Powwow, Aug. 5th Winners receive T-shirt & invitation to compete in the community vs. community play-off games Sept. 3rd during the 54th Cherokee National Holiday, west of the complex. Open to the public No cost to participate To register or for more information contact: Horseshoe Competition Jody Reese, (918) 822-2428 Corn Stalk Shoot Debra Grayson, (918) 207-0796 Stickball and Children’s Games Sharon Dry, (918) 453-5483 Cherokee Marbles Darrell Dry, (918) 434-8622 Blowgun Competition Danny McCarter, (918) 456-2782 Hatchet Throwing David Boyd, (918)774-7234 Traditional Games Coordinator: Lou Slagle (918) 453-1689 Bookshelf Books by, about and including Cherokees UPCOMING (Ronald Wright, Mariner Books, 464 pp., paperback - $17) STOLEN CONTINENTS is a single-volRABBIT PLANTS THE FOREST. ume report that tells the stories of the con(Deborah L. Duvall with Murv Jacob as illustrator, University of New Mexico Press, quest and survival of five great American cultures – Aztec, Maya, Inca, Cherokee and 32pp., hardcover - $18.95) Iroquois. Their words tell their strange, RABBIT PLANTS THE FOREST is a tragic experiences including incidents up story based on characters from Cherokee to the 21st century. tradition including Jistu (Rabbit) and his Wright was born in England to a friends Otter, Saloli (Squirrel) and the Canadian father and an English mother mysterious Wampus Cat. Based on the ancient Cherokee teaching and now lives in British Columbia, Canada. His nonfiction book includes the that squirrels keep the woods alive and bestseller TIME AMONG THE MAYA. should not be hunted, RABBIT PLANTS (2005) THE FOREST combines Jacob’s color paintings and a blending of Cherokee tales GENOCIDE OF THE MIND: New with scientific facts about animals and Native American Writing. (Edited by their places in our world. Author Deborah L. Duvall was born and MariJo Moore and forward by Vine Deloria Jr., Nation Books, 352 pp., paperraised in Tahlequah, Okla., where she has back - $12) lived and worked on numerous projects After five centuries of Euro-centrism, and cultural endeavors over the years. many people have little idea that Native Jacob, a descendant of Kentucky Cherokees, is known for his intricate paint- American tribes still exist or which tradiings of Cherokee village scenes, people and tions belong to what tribes. America’s Indigenous peoples have been stereotyped animal dances. His illustrations for these books are as detailed and rich as any of his as spiritual gurus, pagan savages, Indian princesses or pitiful burdens on society. award-winning paintings. (April) However, there has been a movement to accurately describe Native cultures and RECENT histories. In particular, writers have explored the experience of urban Indians – THE QUOTABLE WILL ROGERS. individuals who live in two worlds strug(Joseph Carter, Gibbs Smith Publisher, 96 gling to preserve traditional Native values pp., hardcover - $12.95) within the context of an ever-changing Will Rogers is one of the most oftenquoted people in the world. Joseph Carter modern society. GENOCIDE OF THE MIND is a collection of essays that record has compiled a collection of the best of the determination of people from more what Will Rogers had to say in a 96-page book. Each page of the book of Rogers’ life than 25 different tribes to bring the Native as an entertainer, humorist, radio personal- American experience into the 21st century. (2003) ity, actor and newspaper columnist contains a Rogers quote. RADIO ON: A Listener’s Diary. (Sarah Carter has gathered many never-beforeVowell, St. Martin's Press, 256 pp., paperpublished photographs and quotes from Rogers’ many years of writings, some well- back - $13.95) There are approximately 502 million known, others not often heard or seen in radios in America. For this savvy, farprint. Carter and his wife Michelle manage the reaching diary, celebrated journalist and author Sarah Vowell turned hers on and Will Rogers Memorial Museum in listened – closely, critically and creatively Claremore and 400-acre 1879 birthplace ranch near Oologah, Okla. Carter, a former for an entire year. Her series of impressions and reflections White House speech writer, university vice regarding contemporary American culture president and newsman, wrote NEVER are an extended meditation on media and MET A MAN I DIDN’T LIKE: The Life society. and Writings of Will Rogers, consulted in Vowell, Cherokee, originally from the opening of the Broadway musical “The Oklahoma, is a contributing editor for Will Rogers Follies: A Life in Revue” and public radio’s “This American Life” and is assisted the University of Oklahoma in the author of TAKE THE CANNOLI, publishing the scholarly five-volume PARTLY CLOUDY PATRIOT and ASSASPAPERS OF WILL ROGERS. (2005) SINATION VACATION. (1997) STOLEN CONTINENTS: 500 Years of – Travis Snell Conquest and Resistance in the Americas. Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006 CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 31 Trudell documentary premieres on PBS’ Independent Lens Tina in Tulsa were used in the film without credit to the photographer, I still recommend viewing and/or purchasing the DVD of “Trudell.” For anyone who lived through the TAHLEQUAH, Okla. - “Trudell,” the documentary film period of political activism of the 1960s and 1970s or who portrait of Santee Sioux poet/activist John Trudell, will prehas an interest in that period,“Trudell” is a must see. (By the miere at 10 p.m. EST, April 11, on the PBS' Independent Lens way, producer/director Heather Rae apologized for the uninprogram. Check you local schedule for telecast time. tentional failure to give credit for my photo and assured me As a political activist in the late 1960s and 1970s, Trudell’s that credit would be added to the DVD when sale to the life was marked by extremes public begins.) of political conflict, joy and Using historical footage from various sources, as well as sorrow, sacrifice and death, recent interview and concert performance footage, Rae docyet he has emerged and suruments Trudell’s life from the Alcatraz occupation through vived through wordsmithing. the tragic loss of his family, followed by his emergence as a I met Trudell in the sumpoet and entertainer in the late 1980s to the present. mer of 1971 in Tulsa, a few On Jan. 10, 1979, the Leonard Peltier Legal Defense years after the occupation of Committee began a vigil led by Trudell and other AIM leadAlcatraz Island in 1969 when ers outside the Supreme Court in Washington, D. C., that he had begun to be recogcontinued for 55 days through some of the most brutal weather in the city’s history. Throughout the vigil the activists nized as one the most eloquent and compelling had carried a United States flag, which was displayed upside spokesman for the American down on the staff, symbolic of a disaster in the United States government – in this instance what was considered the Indian rights movement. Tina Manning, a unjust and illegal conviction and incarceration of Peltier. On Feb. 11, 1979, Trudell said the United States Constitution is Shoshone/Paiute woman I had met when she was a stu- dead and burned the flag on the steps of the FBI building. dent of anthropology at the Subsequent events were reported in the late winter 1978University of Tulsa and who 1979 issue of Akwesasne Notes: “In the early morning hours became John’s wife, introof Feb.12, 1979, a fire swept through an isolated home on the Duck Valley Shoshone-Paiute Reservation. Killed in the fire duced us. Although a bit perturbed were activist Tina Manning-Trudell, her mother Leah Manning and Tina’s three children, Eli, age 1, Sunshine, age 3, John Trudell and Tina Manning- upon viewing the film and and Ricarda, age 6. Tina’s father, Arthur Manning, was learning that a couple of Trudell (Photos by Dan Agent severely burned. Tina, wife of American Indian Movement photos I shot of John and from the film “Trudell”) By Dan Agent Editor National Chairman John Trudell, was an active member of the American Indian Movement, a warm person well-known for her generosity and hard work on behalf of her people.” Arson remains the suspected cause by many. Following that tragic loss and a sabattical from political activisism, Trudell began writing poetry and released his initial recording in 1983 titled “Tribal Voice.” It was followed in 1986 by “aka Grafitti Man” with the late Kiowa guitarist Jesse Ed Davis of Oklahoma City. Bob Dylan, in an interview in the July 17, 1986, Rolling Stone Magazine, called it “the album of the year.” Although it received no awards, it was a pivotal work from a new venue for Trudell's perception and poetry that very likely has had more influence than his political oratory. The film includes interviews with supporters from the entertainment industry such as Jackson Browne, who has produced most of Trudell’s recordings, Robert Redford, family, friends from the Indian movement days and former Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Wilma Mankiller, along with television news footage from the occupation of Alcatraz and Wounded Knee. Producer/director Rae began working on “Trudell” in 1992.“Trudell” has played in more than 40 film festivals worldwide, garnering accolades such as Best Documentary Feature at the 30th annual American Indian Film Festival and a Special Jury Prize for Best Documentary at the Seattle International Film Festival. In addition to “aka Grafitti Man,” Trudell has released nine recordings of poetry and music. The latest, titled “Bone Days,” was executive produced by Angelina Jolie. All are available at the Web site - www.johntrudell.com. For more information and a schedule of showings, visit the Web site at www.trudellthe movie.com Cherokee Nation Home Health Services, Inc. Cherokee Nation Home Health Services mission is to provide life-enhancing Home-based community health services with pride, compassion, and integrity. Providing services in: Adair, Cherokee, Delaware, Mayes, Muskogee, Rogers, Sequoyah, and Wagoner counties. Home Health 1-888-281-6910 Outreach 1-800-307-4768 Hospice 1-877-792-7372 Medicare Approved skilled care and other services that you get in your home, such as: Advantage Waiver program that provides home and community health services to persons of all ages, such as: Medicare Approved Physical, emotional and spiritual support for persons with terminal illness and their family. Therapy Social Services Medical Supplies Medical Equipment Personal Care Aide Homemaker Medical Supplies Medical Equipment Nursing Visits On-Call Nursing Home Health Aide Social Services Micro Vas Wound VAC Case Management Respite Care Respite Care Spiritual & Bereavement 32 CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006 Tribe donates to Muskogee’s Five Civilized Tribes Museum MUSKOGEE, Okla. – For the second consecutive year, the Cherokee Nation has contributed $10,000 to the Five Civilized Tribes Museum in Muskogee. Located in the historic Union Agency Building built in 1875 by the federal government to house superintendents of the Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Creek and Seminole tribes, the museum celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2006 and has planned a series of events that will include Cherokee arts, crafts and history. “The Five Civilized Tribes Museum is thrilled to receive this large donation from the Cherokee Nation. It will help the museum continue to fulfill its mission,” Mary Robinson, executive director of the museum, said. “Funds from this gift will help us continue to educate and inform the general public about the past and the present of the Five Tribes.” “Cherokee Nation is pleased to assist the Five Civilized Tribes Museum in underwriting and sponsoring the Art Under the Oaks Indian Market and Festival and ‘Celebrating Cherokee Traditions Week,’ ” Principal Chief Chad Smith said. “It is important that visitors to Oklahoma hear Cherokee perspectives, voices and history. We are happy to help the Five Civilized Tribes Museum tell our story and showcase some of our contributions.” During the weekend of April 22-23 the museum will hold its annual Art Under the Oaks Indian Market and Festival. The Cherokee National Youth Choir is scheduled to perform at 2 p.m. April 22. “I think it is tremendous that the Cherokee Nation can donate to such a good cause and that we can join the other four tribes to help preserve our art and culture,” Dist. 4 Tribal Councilor Don Garvin said. The museum is located in Garvin’s district. In September, the museum will hold its annual Celebrating Cherokee Traditions Tribal Week to spotlight Cherokee art and artifacts in its permanent collection. Throughout 2006, the museum will feature art shows and showcase the artwork of Cherokee artisans who will also teach classes about basket-weaving, potterymaking and beading. Arts Briefs Trail of Tears Art Show to begin in April PARK HILL, Okla. – The Cherokee National Historical Society will hold its annual Trail of Tears Art Show at the Cherokee Heritage Center beginning April 29. The show will run until May 28. This art show features competition in seven categories as artists from across the country compete for more than $10,000 in prize money. The categories are painting, graphics (photography, charcoal, pencil, ink, etc.), sculpture, miniatures, pottery, basketry and Trail of Tears theme. All entries will be available for purchase. The CNHS will host a members-only reception April 28 and then an awards reception for the public April 29 at the CHC. The CHC is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday until December. It is closed in January. Admission for adults is $8.50, $5 for children and $7.50 for seniors and college students. Admission includes access to the Cherokee National Museum, villages and genealogy center. For more information call (918) 456-6007 or toll free 1-888-999-6007. Five Tribes Museum to hold Art Under the Oaks MUSKOGEE, Okla. – The Five Civilized Tribes Museum, located at 1101 Honor Heights Drive in Muskogee, is slated to hold its Art Under the Oaks Show April 1-30. The show is a competitive show for two- and three-dimensional arts and crafts. All entries will be for sale and an awards reception will be held at 2 p.m. April 2. The accompanying Art Under the Oaks Indian Market and Festival will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 22-23. The museum hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is $3 for adults, $2 for seniors and $1.50 for students. Special group rates are available, and tour groups are asked to schedule their visits at least 48 hours in advance. For more information, call (918) 683-1701 or toll free 1-877-5874237. Mankiller awarded ‘Circle of Honor’ TULSA, Okla. (AP) – As founder of the Cherokee Nation’s Community Development Department, former Principal Chief Wilma Mankiller worked in the ditches to build water lines for CN citizens. Because of those efforts, among others, she received the “Circle of Honor” award March 11 at Tulsa’s Central Library. Mankiller said it was OK for her to do those tasks, but when she wanted to move into leadership then people suddenly had problems. “I was trying to talk about issues and people were trying to destroy my own sense of self by making comments about my being a woman.” Sponsored by the Maxine and Jack Zarrow Family Foundation, Tulsa City-County Library’s American Indian Resource Center and Tulsa Library Trust, the award consisted of a $5,000 honorarium and a bronze medallion. The “Circle of Honor” recognizes American Indians for their achievements by acknowledging contributions that have enriched others’ lives and celebrating their action in the face of adversity, commitment to the preservation of Native culture and legacy for future generations. CHC has certified Cherokee genealogist PARK HILL, Okla. – The Board of Certification for Genealogists announced in February that Cherokee Heritage Center employee Gene Norris has been named a certified genealogist. Norris, who has been the genealogist for the Cherokee Family Research Center's genealogy library at the CHC since 2003, is one of only two board-certified genealogists in Oklahoma and the only certified genealogist specializing in Cherokee ancestry. “Norris worked hard for over a year’s time to complete the application process, research and document his work, pass the scrutiny of three board judges and deserves to enjoy his new title and respect from genealogists around the world. He is uniquely qualified as a Cherokee genealogist,” Lynn C. McMillion, genealogists certification board director, said. “I am delighted to at last be able to tell Gene he is a certified genealogist.” Norris has more than 20 years experience in genealogy and more than 10 years specializing in Cherokee genealogy. He has written several articles for genealogical and historical society publications and assisted in research for several books. He has also written several family history publications. Norris is available for consultation 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The fee for consultation is $20 per hour for non-members of the Cherokee National Historical Society Inc. and $10 per hour for society members. For more information, call (918) 456-6007. Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006 CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 33 Opinion Citizen views fall on both sides of Freedmen issue Cherokee vote ratio of more than 6-to-1. Although the interpretation of Article III is controversial, it is clear that the determinaBackground tion of who may or may not become a citiRecently, the Judicial Appeals Tribunal, zen is a question reserved for Cherokee votthe Cherokee Nation’s Supreme Court, held ers. in the case of Lucy Allen vs. Cherokee As chief of the Cherokee Nation, citizens Nation Tribal Council that a 1983 Cherokee come to me daily to tell me how they feel Nation law that limited citizenship in the about government policies and programs. Cherokee Nation to Cherokees, Shawnees The same is true of the Freedmen issue. and Delawares by blood was unconstituOur citizens have let me know their views tional because it excluded Freedmen. The on the issue of Freedmen citizenship, and I JAT considered this same issue in 2001 in am duty-bound to listen and represent these the case of Riggs vs. Ummerteskee, and at citizens by providing them with informathat time the JAT held that the law was con- tion on how they can work within our govstitutional. Freedmen were former slaves of ernment to make their voices heard. Below Cherokees by blood and were emancipated is a synopsis of some of our citizens’ views. and given Cherokee Nation citizenship by an 1866 amendment to our 1839 Some Cherokees Believe an Indian Tribe’s Constitution after the American Civil War. Citizens Should be Indians. In the case of Allen, the JAT reversed Some Cherokees, including those who itself by ruling that Article III of our 1975 wrote the 1975 Constitution, believe that Constitution was not specific enough to Cherokee voters understood that a vote to exclude the Freedmen. approve the 1975 Constitution would Article III provided that Cherokee Nation exclude Freedmen from citizenship. Many citizens were descendants of the Dawes of those voting to exclude the Freedmen Rolls, including Shawnees and Delawares. believe that an Indian nation should be The 1975 Constitution was adopted by a composed of Indians, that Freedmen were By Chad Smith Principal Chief compensated with allotments, unlike freed slaves in the South after the American Civil War. These Cherokees believe the Freedmen did not help during the last 100 years to rebuild the Cherokee Nation and should not reap any benefits that Cherokees have earned. Some Cherokees Believe the Cherokee Nation Should be a Nation of Citizens Regardless of Race. Others believe the Cherokee Nation should be an Indian republic, as it was before Oklahoma statehood, when it had 7 million acres of exclusive land and was composed of five cultural/ethnic groups, including Cherokees by blood, Delawares by blood, Shawnees by blood, intermarried whites and Freedmen. These people believe this historic citizenship should be continued into the future. Some Seek a Political Benefit. Of course, there is another class of people who see some political benefit in exclusion or inclusion of the Freedmen. Since 1839, There Has Been Only One Cherokee Nation. Regardless of one’s point of view, the Allen case reinforces the principle that the constitutional government of the Cherokee Nation is the same government formed in 1839. It destroys the falsehood that there is a new Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma created in 1975 and an older Cherokee Nation with a constitution dated 1839. There is only one constitutional government of the Cherokee people since 1839 and that is the Cherokee Nation. The claim of Freedmen citizenship goes back to the 1866 amendment to the 1839 Cherokee Nation Constitution. The other thing that is clear is that the Cherokee Nation Constitution is not based on race. People of many different ethnic backgrounds – African-Americans, white Americans and Hispanic-Americans – have Cherokee ancestors on the Dawes Roll; and they are unquestionably entitled to Cherokee Nation citizenship. However, someone will undoubtedly play the race card in this debate. The issue at hand is what classes of people should be citizens of the Cherokee Nation and who should make that decision, the courts or the Cherokee people. Who Should Decide Citizenship? To put the Allen case in perspective, the court acknowledged that Cherokee citizens may decide who are entitled to citizenship. Many Cherokees believed that issue was settled in 1975 with the passage of the Constitution and the exclusion of Freedmen. By a 2-to-1 vote, three people essentially changed the last 30 years of Cherokee Nation governance. The court reversed itself and changed the way the Cherokee Constitution was interpreted. The process to decide the issue of Freedmen citizenship is a constitutional amendment at the polls. The constitutional question to determine citizenship – and especially whether to exclude Freedmen and intermarried whites – may be placed on the next general election ballot by a referendum petition or by a constitutional question authorized by resolution of the council. Even the council is divided on this question. Bill John Baker, Joe Crittenden, Chuck Hoskins, David Thornton, Melvina Shotpouch and Johnny Keener all voted several months ago to prohibit the Cherokee Nation from contesting a federal lawsuit brought by Freedmen to gain citizenship. Although many disagree with the JAT decision to include Freedmen as citizens, I believe everyone understands that it is a question specifically reserved to the Cherokee people. Since the JAT ruled the question was not resolved in 1975, I believe the Cherokee people should answer the question once and for all of who should be entitled to Cherokee citizenship. Practice Cherokee - Greetings oRY oR@ osc Oh - see - yoh Oh - see - gwoo Oh - s - dah Hello. I am fine. Fine. 4h# /Un Toh - hee - joo? Nee - hah - nah? How are you? How about you? 34 CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS Seeking copy of April 26, 2002 Oklahoma Legend newspaper legal section. Lost daughter because of legal notice not seen and need closure. Reward. (918) 4575812. 1st Family Reunion - Seeking relatives of: WILLIAM THOMAS YOUNG AND BETSY BROOM YOUNG; THOMAS WILLIAM YOUNG AND MAUD SUTTEER YOUNG; GEORGE SUTTEER AND NANCY SUTTEER; HOUSTON YOUNG; ELI YOUNG JOHN YOUNG; ESTHER YOUNG AND MINNIE YOUNG ROSSER DATE: MAY 14, 2006 PLACE: DWIGHT MISSION LOCATED NEAR MARBLE CITY, OK For additional information, please call or write: Mag Fletcher P.O. BOX 295, Warner, OK 74469. HOME TELEPHONE: 918-463-2430. If no answer, please leave a message. I will return your call. OPC AISES Seeking Members! The Oklahoma Professional Chapter of the American Indian Science and Engineering Society is rebuilding. If you are interested, email Cara Cowan Watts at [email protected]. To learn more about AISES, visit www.aises.org. Weekend traditional Cherokee Pottery workshops offered. Friday evenings 6-8 pm and Saturdays 10 am-4 pm. Cost is $80. Students will complete two pots using coil Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006 building techniques and learn to stamp designs with carved paddles. Sun Circle Arts, 17950 South Muskogee (next to Big Bellies Deli). Call Jane Osti at 918 453-0449 for details. Trying to locate SMSgt Chester Camron (may be spelled Cameron), USAF Ret, or his family. I served with SMSgt Camron at Kadena AB, Okinawa in 1971-72,in the 824th Trans Sq. He retired in 1972 moved back home to Oklahoma. Please call me collect at (601) 679-5055; or email me at [email protected]. Victor Jerone BUSINESS FOR SALE Only Native American owned art gallery in St. Augustine, Florida, for sale by CN member owner. Chronicles artworks of American Indian race and culture, and a community base for urban Natives. Contact Joyce Campbell (904) 687-9698 email: [email protected] GENEALOGY Seeking people interested in reprint of George Bell’s 1972 book Genealogy of Old & New Cherokee Indian Families. Would sell for $50.00 plus S&H. Write Watie Bell, 1808 Crescent Dr., Bartlesville, OK 74006 FOR SALE Diabetic or just need to lose weight? Get help improving your eating habits today! Order my kitchen-tested cookbook filled with easy guidelines for healthy eating and over 160 simple and tasty recipes. Sugar-free, low-fat, low-salt and low-carb isn't a diet, it's a healthy lifestyle. Over 1,000 sold! Send $24.50 to June Rolston, 1117 Green St., Sallisaw, OK 74955 (we’ve moved) or call (918) 235-0893. 1973 Oldsmobile 88 convertible. Yellow. In good shape but it has been sitting for several months. As is. Best offer over $4,000. (918) 458-0012. REAL ESTATE Rock home on nearly four acres. Three bedroom, two full baths, custom built kitchen cabinets, breakfast bar, hardwood floors, and den with fireplace. Beautifully landscaped with deck, gazebo, flowers and fruit trees. Contact Lucille Gossett, Century 21 Clinkenbeard Agency, (918)773-5680 or (918)527-6145. Seeking picture of ancestor Alvis Gatson Lewis 2nd Lt. Adair's Cherokee Mounted Rifles. Greig Lewis, 9005 Moye, El Paso, TX 79925 or [email protected] Ideal “mother-in-law” set up! Seven acres, two homes. Frame house and a double-wide mobile with fireplace and carport located north of Gore close to the Illinois River. Nice pasture and garden in a pretty location. Contact Lucille Gossett, Century 21 Clinkenbeard Agency, (918)773-5680 or (918)527-6145. Seeking info on Ruth Marie Bray born in 1908 or 1907. Believed to be from the Claremore area. Please call Diane at (580) 889-3511 or email: [email protected] Lovely two story home with highway frontage set back in a grove of trees west of Vian. 3 bdrm, 2 full baths & 2 half baths, large master bdroom, deck, two car garage, plus detached workshop/garage. Covered front porch, breakfast bar, country kitchen, fireplace, home office, lots of closet space and attic storage. One owner, well kept home. Contact Lucille Gossett, Century 21 Clinkenbeard Agency, (918)773-5680 or (918)527-6145. EMPLOYMENT 150 Job Opportunities WITH Two Hawk Employment Services Currently accepting applications for the following positions in the Frozen Food Industry in Stilwell OK. Production Workers Forklift Drivers Sanitation Workers All SHIFTS available If you need to work WEEKENDS ONLY, we’ve also got a job for you. Apply in person ASAP: Two Hawk Employment Services 11 North 1st Street Stilwell, OK 74960 Phone: 918-797-2243 Fax: 918-797-2011 E-mail: [email protected] The Cherokee Phoenix publishes classified ads in good faith. However, we cannot guarantee the integrity of every ad. If you have doubts concerning a product or service, we suggest contacting the Better Business Bureau and exercising proper caution. NEW GOVERNMENT Looking for Housing? HOME BUYERS PROGRAM One Bedroom Apartments 0% down & low payments Available Now* Bring this Ad and Your C.D.I.B. Card - Get $1,000 Discount Show your C.D.I.B. card with your new home purchase and get $1,000 off the price of your home! Stilwell Senior Housing 400 North Eighth Street • Stilwell, Okla. (918) 696-3050 Toll Free (866) 652-8885 Choose your home, arrange your financing and get insurance all in one place. Call Jim at (918) 857-6139 HUD Section 184 Approved • New or Repo, Single or Doublewide Homes Rental Assistance Available* *Must be 62 years or older and meet income guidelines. Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006 CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 35 36 CHEROKEE PHOENIX • APRIL 2006 Ewf #>hAmh • JO/ 2006