# Your Oneida Nation Connection (2024) > Briefs, arguments, decisions, and more. URL: https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/tribal%3Aoneida_nation%3A46560aafb7f74b9a ## Record - **Collection:** Tribal code - **Document type:** Tribal code ## Text Your Oneida Nation Connection FEBRUARY 2024 BUSINESS COMMITTEE Forum pg 2 DEMOLITION OF MCLESTER HOME REVEALS HISTORICAL GEM By Garth Webster Kalihwisaks/Creative Services Kaylynn Gresham, the granddaughter of the late Lee Gordon II and Pearl McLester, was given her grandparent’s property and home on County Line U in Oneida roughly eight years ago, which Gresham planned to renovate. After in-depth inspection and contemplation, Gresham ultimately made the decision to have the home taken down so she could rebuild. Demolition commenced on Tuesday, December 19, 2023. Surprisingly, the removal of the outer framework revealed an interior log home says Gresham, “We found a gem we weren’t expecting.” Fortunately, Crystal Meltz, a former Oneida Tourism employee, reached out to Oneida Tourism Director, Michelle Danforth-Anderson, after the discovery of the Log home. Danforth-Anderson then contacted Gresham to see if she had interest in moving the remaining structure to the Amelia Cornelius Culture Park. Through a coordinated effort between Gresham, Meltz Construction, and the Oneida Nation, a piece of Oneida history will be preserved. The structure will be permanently placed in Spring 2024 alongside the other historical log homes at the Amelia Cornelius Culture Park in the name of Lee Gordon II and Pearl McLester. 3 r d GRAD E RE AD ING L E V E L S GTC Annual Meeting Notice Oneida YES Program Recommends Shift to Oneida Hotel Science of Reading Method Sunday, February 25, 2024 • 10am PG 16 2| FEBRUARY 2024 NATION KALIHWISAKS BUSINESS COMMITTEE FORUM have the greatest polices, laws, departments, services, and buildings but without the membership, employees, and the community moving us forward, none of that would matter. As an elected leader, I believe it is important to show up at events. Being involved in as much as possible is something that I will continue to do. I've heard great feedback from community members that showing up really makes a difference. I want to end by sending some appreciation to the Government Administrative Office (GAO) and all the work they do behind the scenes that make this Nation move forward. They tirelessly gather data, find resources, make plans, and engage all the staff ensuring our success. I have sincerely enjoyed serving this Nation as a Councilman and again much appreciation to the Members of this Nation for giving me the opportunity. Yaw^ko! By Marlon Skenandore Oneida Business Committee Councilman Shekoli Swakwek and Hoyan! I hope the New Year has treated you well and that your friends and families are healthy and happy. I again want to thank the membership for giving me this opportunity. I am beyond words of how grateful I am to be trusted to serve our Nation for the 2023-2026 term. Ater being elected, it was a difficult and emotional decision to leave the Food Pantry. Being a part of that building process was one of my greatest accomplishments as an individual. I am still grateful for the volunteers and staff that I served with throughout those years. Yaw^ko as the pantry still serves the community! That fast-paced environment really set me up for success in my new role. I am highly encouraged with the direction of Nation Building, a concept that brings the OBC and Direct reports together to work together on strategies for this term. It has also provided us the opportunity to really get to know each other on a personal level, enabling us to work through our differences to move towards a common goal. During our transition tours, we've absorbed many presentations from employees from various departments. Being a people person at heart, I am looking foward to the many people and departments still left to visit. In my opinion, we could Photos Courtesy Garth Webster Top: Marlon Skenandore helps facilitate the Legislative Operating Committee community meeting on Wednesday, December 6, 2023. Bottom: Marlon Skenandore, far right, along with his fellow Council Members and Chairman, tours Big Bear Media on Monday, November 27, 2023 as part of the Oneida Business Committees effort to better understand the daily activities of the organization. ONEIDA-NSN.GOV COMMUNITY FEBRUARY 2024 Give BIG Green Bay highlights the important work nonprofits are doing in every corner of our community. Learn more about the participating organizations working to make all our lives more vibrant and fulfilling, and join us Feb. 21 & 22, 2024 to Give BIG! Give BIG Green Bay has raised more than $10 million over the last six years to support our community. This 24-hour giving event is designed to provide a simple way for our community to contribute to local charities. Give BIG Green Bay makes it easy to learn more about the work of participating nonprofits and donate, at any level, to support their work. Inside the atrium at historic Lambeau Field on Thur., Jan. 19, 2024, President and CEO of the Green Bay Packers, Mark Murphy, along with Dennis Buehler, President and CEO of the Greater Green Bay Community Foundation, held a press conference to introduce the organizations selected to be a part of the 2024 Give BIG Green Bay event. Safe Shelter, Woodland Indian Art Board, and Wise Women Gathering Place are excited to be a part of the fundraising drive this year. Above, Madonna Wilber, Melissa Wilber, Safe Shelter Executive Director, and Larry Barton, Oneida Nation Treasurer, with Mark Murphy. Middle, John Breuninger, Woodland Indian Art Board President, with Dennis Buehler. Bottom, John Breuninger and Brenda John, Communications & Outreac Specialist for Wise Women Gathering Place. Starting at Noon on Feb. 21 until Noon Feb. 22 go to: GiveBIGGreenBay.org On the home page, click “View Participating Vendors” Page through the list of nonprofits to select the organization you would like to make a donation to. Give BIG! |3 4| Here at Duck Creek FEBRUARY 2024 KALIHWISAKS NEW ARBOR CONSTRUCTION BEGINS EARLY PREPARING FOR 50TH ANNUAL POW WOW By Garth Webster Kalihwisaks/Creative Services The May 2023 edition reported that the existing Pow Wow Arbor was being torn down to make way for a new and enhanced arbor, which will be completed before this year’s 50th Annual Oneida Pow Wow, June 28-30, 2024. As this winter season approached, there were no plans to begin construction on the new arbor but when weather remained unseasonably warm well into December 2023, the arbor construction team decided to take advantage to get an early start. Just before the Holiday Season, concrete footers and wall structural components were installed. Shortly after, our typical winter season started putting a halt on construction. Nevertheless, what was done will be a good starting point this coming spring. Peter & Fire Reed Professional Tattoo and Henna THANK GOD TATTOO new tattoo A ThankGodTattoo@yahoo.com will lookou. Thank God Tattoo, LLC great on y thankgodtattoo 920.606.7352 ONEIDA-NSN.GOV CONSERVATION FLIGHT OF THE FALCONERS! Photo Courtesy Garth Webster Stephanie Stevens with her female falcon, Bo-Katan after performing some hunting and training activities in her backyard. By Garth Webster Kalihwisaks/Creative Services In his personal life, Bob Smead is 56 years young, happily married for 23 years, raised two children, and lives in the country with his chickens, pigeons, mice. In his professional life, he has also accomplished a lot. He’s been a restaurant manager, enlisted in the Army, police officer, millworker, magazine editor, and attorney (which he still practices part-time). He’s also spent the last 12 years as an Emergency Room registered nurse and also, worked for a year in an Inpatient Adolescent Behavioral Health facility. Through it all, though, Smead’s love of nature and animals fuels his passion for his nine Cardigan Welsh Corgis, which he breeds and shows, his 445 gallon aquarium, and perhaps most interestingly, his love of birds of prey. It was during his teenage years when he became interested in medieval times that led to his fascination with falconry. It wasn’t until his early 30’s, however, when he finally found the time, space, and resources to pursue having a falcon of his own. After studying, passing the exam, and finding a sponsor, he officially began his falconry career on December 6, 2001 by acquiring a small, male Redtailed Hawk, who he named Harey. Since Harey, Smead has been a caretaker to many raptors and still, after all these years, he expresses the fulfillment of these birds, “The gratification I receive is the sense of wonder that these amazing birds allow me into their lives and let me share in their natural predator/prey relationship.” Smead continues by adding, “I have also found that sharing this passion with others is incredibly rewarding for me.” After mentoring one of his appren- FEBRUARY 2024 |5 tices to General-Falconer status this past November 2023, he was contacted by one of his Falconer colleauges asking if he would consider taking on another apprentice. Needless to say, he accepted the opportunity to mentor Stephanie Stevens, who he describes as, “One of the most tied-to-nature apprentices I’ve ever had.” Since their initial meeting, Smead expresses the happiness he's been able to relive by being Stevens' mentor, “Seeing her bird, BoKatan, catch its first rabbit with her was incredible. The look on her face brought back all of my memories of my early days.” If you’re interested in falconry, Smead’s best advice is get out in the field with falconers. He also stresses this is a commitment that requires a lot of time and financial resources and thus, it should be treated as more than just a hobby. Learn more by attending the Wisconsin Field Meet February 2-4, 2024. Details can be found at WisconsinFalconers.org 6| SPORTS FEBRUARY 2024 KALIHWISAKS CLASS OF 2024 NAIAHF Dennis Danforth Sr. Joey Christjohn Excerps taken from NAIAHF.org The Nor th American Indigenous Athletics Hall of Fame (NAIAHF) honors and recognizes the Indigenous sport cultures of 27 countries of North America by recognizing outstanding leadership and achievement in individual and team athletics. By honoring and celebrating the empowered journey of the annually inducted individuals and teams, the hope is their stories may inspire future generations to follow their dreams in athletics and life. This year’s inductees will be honored at the NAIAHF Banquet at the Oneida Hotel on Saturday, March 16, 2024. This years inductees includes Oneida’s very own Levi Parker “Tallfeather” Webster, Dennis Danforth Sr., Joey Christjohn, and members of the 1899 Carlisle Indian Industrial School football team which includes Martin Wheelock, Chauncy Archiqette, Jonas Metoxen, and Caleb Sickles. Click or Scan the QR to Read more about the inductees. Levi Parker Webster, with his wife Servilla ONEIDA-NSN.GOV VETERANS AFFAIRS FEBRUARY 2024 |7 NAIV Receives Congressional Charter Photo Courtesy Chris Cornelius L to R: 1st and 3rd gentleman are unknown, Major James K. Overman, NAIV / VFW members: Cletus Ninham, Past Commander Robert Cornelius Oneida VFW Post 7784; Andy John, VFW 7784 Quartermaster, and NAIV National Commander, Don Loudner at a gathering at the Wisconsin State Capital in Madison. Photo Courtesy Chris Cornelius Excerpts used from Jonathan Lehrfeld and Nikki Wentling of Miliary Times and Press release by Senator Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) Oneida NAIV Color Guard in Washington DC; Memorial Day Presidential Address, and wreath presentation at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. L to R: Colonel James Buckley (holding the Oneida Eagle Staff); former NCAI President Jefferson Keel; current NAIV National Vice Commander, Chris Cornelius; and NAIV National Commander, Don Loudner. The National American Indian Veterans (NAIV) association, led by National Commander, 90-year-old Don Loudner (Cheyenne River Sioux and Korean War Veteran) and Chief of Staff, Joey Strickland (Choctaw, retired Colonel with two tours in Vietnam), were recently victorious in a 20-year effort to receive a congressional charter. Congress grants charters to recognize patriotic and national organizations that operate solely for charitable, literary, educational, scientific, or civil improvement purposes. The charter will enable the NAIV to better advocate on behalf of Tribal Veterans in all 50 states, as Strickland describes the accomplishment in an interview with Military Times, “It was a long, hard fight. When we found out it passed, it was euphoric. This recognition will allow the NAIV organization to testify about veterans’ issues impacting Native Veterans and their families before Congress and provide a pathway for the NAIV to have some of its members accredited by the Department of Veterans Affairs, permitting them to log into VA systems and help Veterans and their families with benefits and claims which is currently lacking on tribal lands.” Through the years, Congressional Charters have been granted to Italian-American, Polish-American, and Catholic-American veterans groups but never, until now, to a Native American veterans’ organization. Says Mike Rounds, who serves as Senator for South Dakota where the NAIV was founded in 2004, “Native Americans serve in our nation’s military at five times the national average, and this charter gives them the recognition they truly deserve and have earned.” Oneida Member, Dan King, and former Co-Chairman of the Veterans Committee of the National Congress of American Indians mentions in an article by the Military Times how this could prove to be a precedent for others seeking Congressional Chargers, “The approval of NAIV’s charter could open the door for other groups to seek the same recognition.” Strickland says the next step is for President Biden to sign the 2024 National Defense Authorization Act, which includes the NAIV charter. Although Strickland is now retired, he is excited for the future of the NAIV, mentioning that the 1st National Meeting of the NAIV may be held in South Dakota. 8| FEBRUARY 2024 COMMUNITY KALIHWISAKS Click or scan the QR Code to read Lois Powless' biography. Click or scan the QR Code to read Wendell McLester's biography. Mia Charnon Kalihwisaks/Creative Services Lifetime Achievement Honors & Recognition to Lois J. Powless and Wendell McLester on Wednesday, January 10, 2024 for their lifetime achievements and contributions to the Oneida Nation. They were also presented a Bicentennial blanket and gifts from the Oneida Business Committee and the Oneida Veterans presented them each with an Oneida Flag. They were then honored with the gift of song from the Oneida Hymn Singers. Tsyunhéhkw^ Update-Amber Powless By Mia Charnon Kalihwisaks/Creative Services Welcome Amber Powless Amber Powless, Oneida Member, recently became the new Community Outreach Coordinator at Tsyunhéhkw^. She is passionate about traditional organic foods and applying herbal medicinal plants as medicine. Powless studied at Penn State University and went on to use her degree in many areas of Indian Country, including MN where she was employed with the Minnesota Chippewa through the BIA on their Title Reconciliation Team. She also went on to work for the White Earth Land Settlement Act. Combined, the two positions helped her gain clarity regarding land management protocols, which she feels are systematically untying us to the land. Her desire is to share what she has learned: land is the Earth, Earth is soil, and soil is the life blood that sustains us all. Tsyunhéhkwa^ is excited to welcome Amber into this new role and are grateful for the experience and passion she brings to our community. Tsyunhéhkw^ Teaching Traditions to Our Youth After Harvest Fest, Tsyunhéhkwa^ kicked off Education Days the second week of October. This week long event offered children a chance to go back in time and learn about Traditional White Corn. In total, over 700 Cont. on 28/Tsyunhéhkw^ Update ONEIDA-NSN.GOV NEWS FEBRUARY 2024 |9 PEOPLE'S RECORDER PODCAST TO FEATURE ONEIDA WRITERS By Mia Charnon Kalihwisaks/Creative Services The People’s Recorder (PR), a podcast whose creation was inspired by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) and the Federal Writers’ Project (FWP) created by Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1935 to provide jobs to out-of-work writers during the Great Depression, will chronicle how history is recorded and the power of being heard. Their work helped to produce hundreds of publications consisting of city and state guides, local and oral histories, children’s books, and autobiographical accounts of every aspect of life. From its inception until it dissolved in 1943, the FWP employed thousands of unemployed librarians, clerks, editors, researchers, and historians. In the Oneida community, the project resulted in notebooks comprised of the accounts of more than 220 men and women ages 30 to 92. The notebooks also encompassed subjects of working life, marriage and family life, religion and beliefs, politics, boarding school experiences, recreation, sports, and more. This project not only provided work relief to an estimated 10,000 writers but also painted an original “self-portrait of America” through the publication of notebooks. Illustrated by the daily lives of people living in the 1930s, the notebooks document the incredible impacts the Great Depression. From this unique experience, many great American writers found their voice. The People’s Recorder, a podcast developed by Spark Media, which also produced a film on the same topic, Soul of a People: Writing America’s Story, broadcasted on the Smithsonian Channel in 2009. Personal stories from the Great Depression are featured, revealing an American democracy built on diversity. The podcast explores the stories of American life in the 1930s that were first recorded by the FWP. The Oneida Language Project is a featured WI topic and includes guests from the Oneida Nation as they share its impact and how it inspired the next generation of storytellers Cont. on 21/People's Recorder Podcast Photos courtesy of University of Wisconsin-Green Bay. Above by headline: Floyd Lounsbury working with Lyida (Isaac) Green, a Cayuga Speaker, in 1960. Here, Oneida Speakers pose for a group photo for the WPA project in 1939. 10 | FEBRUARY 2024 FOOD SOVEREIGNTY KALIHWISAKS Oneida Nation Receives GRANTS TOTALING $479,151 $180,000 – By Bill Ver Voort The Oneida Nation has received a $180,000 grant from the GROWING JUSTICE Fund. GROWING JUSTICE is a pooled fund co-designed by BIPOC leaders, underserved farmers, advocates, food suppliers, purchasers, and funding partners working in urban, rural, and Tribal communities nationwide. The funds from this grant will support the efforts of the Oneida Nation to grow traditional foods by supporting indigenous communities, farmers, and entrepreneurs in their agricultural efforts. We will provide gardening guides and workshops to promote food literacy, develop skills and encourage community members to grow and prepare their own food. The grant will assist the Oneida Nation in creating a project that will improve their agriculture and food system infrastructure. We also expect to improve food accessibility and soil health. This project will assist the Oneida Nation in teaching sustainable agricultural practices to our community members who want to learn more about food waste, healthy soils, and where their food comes from. With the present and future health issues that are plaguing our people, such as diabetes, obesity, and heart disease, it is important to help our community understand the role that agriculture and food plays in their quality of life and in building a healthy community. The Oneida Nation is working towards food security and cultural preservation through the cultivation of Native crops and building the capacity of farmers in our community and among neighboring Tribal Nations. GROWING JUSTICE funding will support the Oneida Nation’s efforts to create pathways and restore economic power and food sovereignty to indigenous peoples and establish a more just and equitable food system for all. Our work will involve the creation of Tribal networks, the implementation of educational programs, with a goal of farming 200 acres of indigenous crops in Wisconsin. $299,151 – By Vanessa Miller The Oneida Nation has received a $299,151 grant from the US Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture. The funds from this grant will support the efforts of the Oneida Nation to design and develop a culturally relevant and significant application for students and the community centered around food handling and safety, as well as teach about the Oneida culture and traditions as a “food is medicine” concept. This application will also be specifically focused on engaging youth in the significance of our food system and sustainability as a public health approach. The grant will assist the Oneida Nation in developing and implementing food safety training, education, extension, outreach and technical assistance projects that address the needs of owners of small, midsized farms, beginning farmers, socially disadvantaged farmers, small processors, veteran farmers or ranchers, or small fresh fruit and vegetable merchant wholesalers. The project will focus on providing trainings or technical assistance that addresses knowledge related to pre- and post-harvest water testing and sampling, soil amendments, developing supply chain programs, and/or developing food safety plans. Funding for the Food Safety Training Initiative was made possible by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Nation Institute of Food and Agriculture through grant 20237002040743. ONEIDA-NSN.GOV FOOD SOVEREIGNTY FEBRUARY 2024 | 11 ONEIDA NATION FARM CONTINUES TO REBUILD Aerial photo of Oneida Nation Farm in 2023. 1 NEW ONF 3-IN-1 STRUCTURE MACHINE SHOP 2 FOR EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE 3 Aerial photo of Oneida Nation Farm in its original state before fire and storm damage. By Mia Charnon Kalihwisaks/Creative Services The Oneida Nation Farm (ONF) continues to rebuild after a heavy windstorm and tornado on June 15, 2022, and a fire two weeks before, devastated the farm resulting in substantial damage. Multiple farm buildings sustained damage including the primary feeding silo, shelter barn, hay shed, and grain bin facilities. It was estimated the damages would cost $500,000 to repair. Jumping forward to today, the ONF tore down the damaged structures built in the 1970s and will be adding a 3-in-1 structure housing a cold-storage area for hay and straw, a machine shop for equipment maintenance, and a new office for staff. Insurance claims covered most of the costs of farm equaling to $150,000 for the grain bin, $150,000 for repairs to the existing cattle barn, $150,000 for site cleanup, and $75,000 for miscellaneous damage. Thankfully, no machinery was lost in the storm and there were no injuries or deaths to any staff or livestock. After the devastation, it was unclear if the farm had the ability to keep up with the demand for their products. However, Tom Swiecichowski, ONF Manager, explained how they satisfied demand for the community resource programs and employee sales, “Although demand for both beef and bison steadily increased, we were able to get product to Oneida food distribution, Oneida food pantry, Anna John Nursing Home, Oneida Hotel, Oneida School System, and the Feeding America Elder Food Box program. Employee beef sales have also been steady, and ONF has used American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) COLD-STORAGE FOR HAY & STRAW NEW OFFICE FOR STAFF funds to cover beef processing for Oneida Nation Members, which has concluded." Since then, ONF has sold 69 head of beef to 276 Oneida Members, a success as their mission is to get more Oneida Nation Farm beef into the community at an affordable price. ONF has also been working with the Soil Health Demonstration Site (SHED) project to assist the farm in searching for better ways to increase their yields and revenue. This initiative has also aided ONF in creating a more cognitive approach to cover-crops and long-term soil health for the betterment of the land and environment. ONF is looking to include more advertising on updated beef and bison prices and is currently booking orders into February and March 2024 12 | FEBRUARY 2024 LOCAL KALIHWISAKS MEET SMUDGE! OPD’S NEW THERAPY K9 Submitted by Oneida Police Dept. We are so excited to welcome Smudge to the Oneida Police Department, who we know will be a great asset to the community and the PD. K9 Smudge will be used to supplement police services by providing therapeutic aid on calls for services where additional support is needed, building positive relationships between us and our community by attending community events, and provide additional support to our officers and dispatchers who so often are exposed to traumatic and stressful situations. K9 Smudge's handler is SRO Eddie Metoxen, which means Smudge will spend a lot of time at the Oneida Nation High School and Turtle School! Smudge's name was decided to reflect the importance of the Oneida culture to us and the notion of cleansing a space or person from negativity. K9 Smudge was graciously donated by Blueberry Cottage Labradoodles, who has provided many therapy pups for agencies across the state. We have no doubt that K9 Smudge will have a positive impact on our community and our PD. Please welcome K9 Smudge! Oneida Land Claims Commission WANTS TO KNOW… Submitted by Chris Cornelius, OLCC Chair The Oneida Land Claims Commission (OLCC) was created by the membership to represent the membership on our Land Claims. Our continued goals for 2024 are: 1. Continue educational outreach with the membership on our land claims. 2. Gather input and recommendations from you and present that information to our negotiators and our governmental leaders. 3.Conduct research on our claims and other Tribal Nation claims. The New York land claim has not been resolved for the Oneida Communities in Wisconsin or Canada. The United States court dismissed our claim, stating our Nation took too long and our case is done. Annual input gathered from our membership strongly supports efforts to continue seeking justice for our claims. We concur with the membership to reject the court’s decision; they have errored in their ruling. Therefore, it is OLCC’s recommendation that we do not give up our right to continue to seek justice against the state of New York for the unlawful possession of our homeland and violation of the Trade and Intercourse Act. ONEIDA-NSN.GOV COMMUNITY FEBRUARY 2024 | 13 BLOOD QUANTUM-DECIDING OUR FUTURE By Garth Webster Kalihwisaks/Creative Services Norbert Hill Jr., the author of The Great Vanishing Act; Blood Quantum and the Future of Native Nations, gathered the Oneida Community together Wednesday evening, January 17, 2024 at the Oneida Nation Veteran's Department office to discuss the blood quantum issue. Many Nations wrestle with the legacy of blood quantum and Indian identity as they work to manage Tribal enrollment and social services. The Oneida Nation is no different. A variety of ideas and comments were presented by concerned community members, tribal leadership positions, including Oneida Business Committee and Oneida Trust Enrollment Committee Members. The meeting is essentially a preview of the upcoming Blood Quantum GTC meeting happening very soon. Community Discussion Featuring Oneida Rec. & Fitness Complex Project Click or Scan QR Code for Rec. & Fitness Ctr Complex Presentation Click or Scan the QR Code to view the Oneida Recreation Project video. Video courtesy of Irene Danforth and the Cultural Heritage Team. E Photo Courtesy Mia Charnon Mark Powless, Oneida General Manager, and Ryan Waterstreet, Oneida Family Fitness Director, discuss the Oneida Recreation Project with the community. By Mia Charnon Kalihwisaks/Creative Services Mark Powless, General Manager, Arlouine Bain, Recreation Director, and Oneida Family Fitness Director, Ryan Waterstreet facilitated a community meal & discussion at the Norbert Hill Center Cafeteria Thursday evening, January 11, 2024. Approximately 35 attendees came to learn and offer recommendations about the proposed Oneida Recreation Complex Project. There was significant support for this project as it will create a place to deliver direct wellness to all ages of the Oneida Community that will provide a learning center, art room, social rec room, sports and fitness, with extended hours. The project is intended to be a part of a campus approach with the new Oneida Nation High School project featuring stand-alone buildings easily accessible through paved paths. 14 | FEBRUARY 2024 COMMUNITY KALIHWISAKS “MILK AND COOKIES” EVENT ON 12-14-23 WAS A SUCCESS! Photos courtesy of Candi Jo Cornelius By Candi Jo Cornelius RN/Prenatal Care Coordinator The local breastfeeding group, Breastfeeding Families (BFFS) and the Oneida Prenatal Program held an event for breastfeeding families in the community. Fifteen families came to the Parish Hall to meet local program staff, decorate cookies, and take a professional photo by Delta Rae Photography LLC. All participants were grateful to come together to support each other and celebrate giving their babies the First Sacred Food! Yaw^ko to all the programs that had an information table for the parents and an activity for the kids. Programs present were Oneida Early Intervention, Oneida Early Head Start, Oneida Community Health Nursing, Wise Women Gathering Place, Oneida Economic Support, and Community Prevention. ONEIDA-NSN.GOV EDUCATION FEBRUARY 2024 | 15 Oneida Recreation Instills Core Values Photos Courtesy Garth Webster Oneida Recreation Staff: Front LtoR: Dwayne Matson, Arlouine Bain, Adrianna Pelky and Lora Danforth: Back LtoR: Raymond Danforth, Shienne Red Hail and Lindsey Blackowl By Mia Charnon Kalihwisaks/Creative Services Oneida Recreation recently launched a new program, which takes place every Thursday, to pass on the On yote a’ka Core Values to students at their afterschool program, enabling them to comprehend the value and reflect on that value in their own life. The featured Core Value in December 2023 was Ka?nikuhli:yo (Ga-nee-goo hlee yo)-The Openness of the Good Spirit and Mind, where students enjoyed breathing exercises, guided meditation, smudging, water-painting, journaling, kindness bingo, and poster making. Another cultural class that has been very impactful for the students and the staff is ribbon shirt/skirt making says Arlouine Bain, Recreation Director, “It was interesting how you could see some of the boys were really into it. They were just so proud when they put on their shirts, you could tell when we took their picture that they were so happy just to have it.” The after-school program also includes classes in pottery, storytelling, cornhusk doll & flower making, and Indigenous sports. In the past, students were taught the Six Pillars of Character consisting of trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship. Since the transition to the Oneida Core Values, though, staff has experienced a significant improvement in the behavior and mental health of the students. “A lot of the kids liked the smudging and meditation in the gym,” said Presley Cornelius, Office Manager at the Civic Center, “They said it really calmed them down and I think it grounded a lot of them.” Cornelius goes on to add how one child felt so relaxed they said they could fall asleep. The program is also proving successful at the Cliff Webster facility on County H where staff observed that children have a greater concentration and calmness during art activities, such as water-painting, after doing the breathing exercise(s). Each day, 50-70 students attend the after-school program at the Civic Center, with an additional 50 students at County H. The students are greeted by 13 staff members who assist in creating a safe place for students to decompress after a busy school day, homework assistance, and perhaps most importantly, an environment to learn Oneida culture and language. The majority of the students are ages 7-13, but the after-school program is available for ages 7-18. The January 2024 emphasis was on Kalihwi’yo (Galeeh-wee-yo)-The use of the good words about ourselves, our Nation and our future and for February Kanolukhwasla (Gano-loo-kwa-sla)Compassion, caring, identity, and joy of being will be the focus. Click or Scan the QR Code for the Core Value Catcher Game and Oneida Core Value Poster 16 | FEBRUARY 2024 EDUCATION KALIHWISAKS Shifting to the Science of Reading-Part I Photo Courtesy Oneida YES Program Front row, left to right: Marcie Jefferson, Jackie Smith, Stephanie Stevens, JoAnn Ninham, Kathy Doxtater, and Tami Kaczrowski. Back row, left to right: Orleana Batiste, Cari Clayton, Myriah Summers, Vicki Strzelecki, Jane Powless, Wendy Summers, Doug Younkle, River Ocker, Sharon Skenandore Arts (ELA). McCotter expressed her disappointment, “The system is driving unequal results and we need The Oneida Youth Enrichment to understand and work to change Services (YES) Program has recently this,” which was confirmed by Ninham, discovered that just 5% of third grade “It’s alarming and we feel families Native American students in Brown need to know this.” Both agree that County, including Oneida students, there are many factors contributing to are reading at a proficient level or this data point, as Ninham explains, above. Proficiency is otherwise “The dynamics brought about by known as reading at the grade the Pandemic, mental level expectation. health, generational During the same trauma, families living period white The system is driving in poverty, students students in Brown not having a feeling of County were unequal results and we inclusion, and school reading at a 43% need to understand and attendance are all proficiency level. on the list. However, This gap between work to change this. the last item, school Native American at tendance and students and Ann McCotter ensuring that kids are white students in school, is one we’d represents an equity gap. like to call out.” JoAnn Ninham, YES Program McCot ter explained that a Manager, along with Oneida standardized goal for all students O rg a n iza t i o na l D eve l o p m e n t in this area is not to miss more than Specialist, Ann McCotter, disclosed 10% (18 days) of the school year. that the 38-point equit y gap Unfortunately, a recent attendance was revealed from results of the report shows that 24% of non-Native 2021/2022 3rd grade Forward students have missed more than Exam for English, Language, and By Garth Webster Kalihwisaks/Creative Services 10% but among the Native American population, this number jumps to 68%. Ninham and the Y.E.S. program are combatting this by engaging with area schools to collaborate and work on attendance levels, as well as reading proficiencies, with district administrators and shares her elation with how things are going, “We’re excited to establish a sharper focus on this and more collaboration than ever before.” McCotter continues by sharing studies that emphasize why it’s critically important to ensure our third graders succeed at reading: • History has shown the difficulty of getting a student in fourth grade or older up to grade level in reading once they have fallen behind. • There’s a strong correlation between students that aren’t proficient readers by third grade with the likelihood of not graduating high school, which can lead to reliance on welfare and public services as well as higher rates of incarceration. Along with these motivating factors, Ninham and McCotter are also encouraged by a relatively new movement regarding how students ONEIDA-NSN.GOV EDUCATION are taught to read. In July 2023, the Wisconsin Act 20 Legislation was passed, bringing a change to how reading is taught in elementary schools. Specifically, the legislation will require school districts to train administrators and teachers on the Science of Reading (SOR) methodology of reading instruction. Transendeducation. org explains the longstanding debate between SOR and the previous, aka Whole Language, instructional method, “Educators have long debated the most effective way to teach young people how to read. For decades, a key part of this debate was between structured phonics instruction and a more “whole language” approach. The whole language approach encouraged learners to use context and visual clues to decipher unfamiliar words, providing a contrast to “sounding them out” with a structured dissection of words through phonics. Now, schools and educators are embracing a long-standing body of research cumulatively referred to as the science of reading. which highlights the importance of explicit and repeated phonics instruction.” SOR utilizes 5 pillars: Phonemic Awareness (hearing the sounds), Phonics (matching the sounds of letters and combinations of letters to words), Vocabulary, Fluency, and finally, Comprehension. In the documentary, Right to FEBRUARY 2024 | 17 Read, Kymyona Burk, Senior Policy Fellow for the Literacy Foundation for Excellence in Education, points out that the SOR is an improvement on Whole Language theory because it aligns with the cognitive function of how the human brain learns. She continues by adding, “We want to ensure all students have the opportunity to be with a teacher who has learned the science of reading, who has learned the structure of literacy approach, and teaches students how to decode words and how to encounter words they don’t know and use the skills and strategies they’ve been taught explicitly and systematically, in order to crack the code of reading.” In the end, despite being faced with an uphill climb, Ninham is staying vigilant and optimistic to her mission to collaborate with families, schools, and communities so that students feel connected and valued and perhaps most importantly, using key data in a positive way to educate, advocate, and mentor students (and guardians) in an environment where they can live a culturally, spiritually, socially, emotional, and cognitively balanced life. In part two of this series, we’ll dive deeper into the specifics of how Oneida will engage the community to support an increase in 3rd grade reading proficiency with the help from Councilwoman Jennifer Webster. "We want to ensure all students have the opportunity to be with a teacher who has learned the science of reading...in order to crack the code of reading." 18 | FEBRUARY 2024 EDUCATION KALIHWISAKS UW-Madison TUITION WAIVER for Native Students By Mia Charnon Kalihwisaks/Creative Services Oneida Member, James Flores, began an initiative that will come to fruition this fall 2024 when the University of Wisconsin-Madison (UW) implements a waiver covering the full cost of an undergraduate degree for citizens of any of Wisconsin’s federally recognized Tribes. See bottom banner for eligibility details. Flores previously worked as an Admissions Counselor for the Native American Outreach and Recruitment at UW in July 2022. While reviewing applications, he observed a large gap in access to education, particularly among Native American students, and wanted to determine how to fill this gap and assist Tribal members through the application process to attend college. In doing so, Flores also discovered that UW is a land-grant university located on the traditional homelands of the Ho-Chunk Nation. Land-grant universities were designed to give working class Americans a chance at a college education by establishing public colleges through the Morill Act in 1862. This was funded by the development or sale of 10 million acres of federal land, most of which had been inhabited by Native American tribes. UW-Madison alone was granted 235,530 acres of land taken from the Morill Act, serving as a key element that set in motion Flores’ campaign to help Native students. Flores began presenting this information to his colleagues in the admissions department where he discussed the history of UW and the future he envisioned for Native American students, stating, “I don’t think that Indigenous students attending land-grant universities, such as UW-Madison, who have obtained their wealth in this fashion, should have to pay tuition.” He continued Photo Courtesy James Flores James Flores began his higher education at Milwaukee Area Tech eventually transferring to the University of Milwaukee earning a Bachelors degree in American Indian Studies with a certificate in Cultures and Communities. to present his findings and ideas to the various other departments and boards at the University triggering the establishment of committees to create the tuition waiver for Native American students at UW. Says Jennifer Mnookin, UW Chancellor, “As a university, we are deeply committed to a future of mutual respect and cooperation with the American Indian Tribes in Wisconsin. This program is another tangible, meaningful step in that direction.” Carla Vigue, UW Director of Tribal Relations adds, “It is our hope that more Native students will take a second look at UW and realize that we are not out of reach. I also want Native students to know that, once here, we have support and services that can help them thrive and feel a real sense of belonging at this world-class university.” Madison follows many other states including Michigan and Minnesota in creating tuition waivers and scholarships for Native American Students. Aside from leading the tuition-waiver initiative, Flores serves as the Tribal Liaison at the Milwaukee Public Museum, which is currently developing plans for its new building location slated to open in 2027. Flores is part of a team that is engaging with tribal nations to develop exhibit content for the new museum that is authentically told from tribal perspectives. ONEIDA-NSN.GOV CULTURAL EVENTS FEBRUARY 2024 | 19 EVENTS 20 | FEBRUARY 2024 KALIHWISAKS Empowering Native Entrepreneurs American Indian Chamber of Commerce of Wisconsin (AICCW) Since its inception in 1991, AICCW has been pivotal to Wisconsin Indian Country’s economic expansion, empowering Native-owned businesses through advocacy, networking, and tailored member services. • • • • • Championing economic and business development statewide. Offering access to financial products, services, and networking opportunities. Conducting economic development seminars for enriched business acumen. Representing Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE) in key state initiatives. Nurturing Native student leaders via the AICCW Scholarship Program and recognizing and celebrating Native business success. For more information on FACC’s Business Services, visit faccwi.org or contact: Heather Cloud Executive Director heather@aiccw.org 920.412.5590 Paul R Smith Assisstant Executive Director paul@aiccw.org 414.416.3593 PARTNERS Certified Native CDFI First American Capital Corporation (FACC) At FACC, we stand beside Wisconsin’s entrepreneurs, providing the financial support and technical guidance essential for sustained business growth. We honor your business by: • • • • Providing accessible capital through the Revolving Loan Fund and SBA Mircoloans. Offering personalized technical assistance for robust business growth. Guiding entrepreneurs from business plan creation to succession planning options. Aligning our resources with your goals, our collaborative steps are designed to support the pathway to your success. For more information on FACC’s Business Services, visit faccwi.org or contact: Bill Beson Co-Executive Dir./Lending bill@firstamericancapitalcorp.org 715.358.5882 Gary Mejchar Co-Executive Dir./Development gary@firstamericancapitalcorp.org 414.517.1604 COLLABORATORS Intermediary Lender Key Strategic Partner FACC and AICCW unite with a firm purpose to empower Native entrepreneurs in Wisconsin, forging a robust support network that propels businesses toward sustainable growth. Our synergistic approaches amplify our collective impact, paving the way for a brighter economic horizon in Wisconsin Indian Country. NEWS ONEIDA-NSN.GOV FEBRUARY 2024 | 21 From page 9/People's Recorder Podcast and oral historians in Oneida. The recorded WPA accounts of Oneida men and women were then translated into English to create the Oneida Language Project, which have been utilized by linguists and used for language-learning by Oneida members throughout the decades. Audiences will hear stories about Oscar Archiquette, one of the first Oneida WPA writers that helped to save the Oneida language, Loretta Metoxen, who worked with Archiquette and became a well-known Tribal Historian, and Gordon McLester, who was inspired by Archiquette to begin video recording stories from Oneida Elders as well as many other guests. Producer and production manager, James Mirabello shared that Spark Media was motivated to feature Oneida because of their unique experiences and diverse scope, ”The stories in this podcast and this episode in particular matter, local stories matter because they make a difference and are usually left out from what we are taught in history books.” Mirabello continues, “It is so important that the Oneida language was preserved through the Oneida notebooks, but just as important is hearing how people’s lives were at that time.” The listeners of The People’s Recorder can expect to be reminded of the significance of local stories and how the version of history taught in schools is not always the full story. In Oneida, this project helped preserve the language, but the stories also connect us with our past and evoke inspiration in us that we all have a voice and the power to change how history is recorded. COMMUNITY EDUCATION CENTER NEW PROGRAM ANNOUNCEMENT! HSED NOW AVAILABLE The HSED program provides students with an opportunity to obtain their high school equivalency diploma. THE ONEIDA NATION IS NOW HIRING Click or Scan the QR Codes to view the current job opportunities. - No tests required - Free to the public - Courses taken at the CEC INQUIRE TODAY! 920-496-5260 2632 S. Packerland Drive Green Bay, WI 54313 https://oneidansn.gov/divisions/governmentalservices/community-education-center/ Oneida Nation Open Positions Oneida Casino Open Positions The Oneida Nation also recognizes the years of service of current employees. 22 | FEBRUARY 2024 NONA COTTRELL June 11, 1934 - January 11, 2024 Nona Cottrell, 89, journeyed to meet her Heavenly Father on Thursday, January 11, 2024, with her family by her side. Born June 11, 1934, to the late Rebecca and Nelson Ninham. Nona married the love of her life Erwin O. Cottrell, Jr. on November 24, 1957. In her youth Nona excelled in the sport of baseball, being a standout in a women’s baseball league. Some of her favorite hobbies included blanket and quilt making, thrift shopping, and collecting figurines. Nona is survived by seven children: Lori (Pat) Metoxen of Green Bay, Larry (Cathy) Cottrell of Green Bay, Richard Cottrell of Green Bay, Kevin (Michelle) Cottrell of Green Bay, Scott Cottrell of Green Bay, Keith (Tara) Cottrell of Green Bay, and Candace (Buggs) Danforth of Oneida. Nona was always an amazing mother and never retired from being an amazing mother. Nona loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren: Jared (Emily) Metoxen, Patrick (Christy) Metoxen, Kayla (Tom) Beauchamp, Kelsey (Codie) Burmiester, Kiera Cottrell, Edward Cottrell, Travis Cottrell, Cassondra Cottrell, Cody (Sophie) Cottrell, Erwin Cottrell, Louis (Fawn) Cottrell, Jake (Kayla) Cottrell, Natasha (James) Miller, Nakenzee Cottrell, Kingsley Cottrell, Destiny Knutson, Arianna Cottrell, Nona Danforth, Olivia Danforth, Tiana Danforth, Jackson (Rebecca) Danforth. Great grandchildren; Seneca Metoxen, Isabel Metoxen, Niamh Pashek, Esther Beauchamp, William Beauchamp, Na’Theo, Sloane Cottrell, Charlie Cottrell, Deja Vieau, Cade Cottrell, Cameron Cottrell, Chloe Cottrell, Christian Cottrell, Quillan Cottrell, Tracer Cottrell, Aj’Leigh Miller, A’Leiana Miller, Aizon Miller, Lokelani Cooper-Cottrell, Kayjah Cottrell, Lei’Ander Denny, Lola Inez Hill, Ophelia Hill, O’zsian Hill, Liam Bowey, Ryker Gorecki, Azariah Robinson, Jayseh Robinson, Yovanni Vega, Amina Vega, Amelio Vega. OBITUARIES Special niece and nephews Tammy Ninham, Shawn Skenandore, and Jeremy Vande Hei. Nona is further survived by siblings Annabeth Ness, Leland (Rebecca) Wigg Ninham, Cletus Ninham, Debra Ninham, Regina (Todd) Vande Hei, Marlene Ninham. She was preceded in death by the love of her life Erwin Cottrell, Jr., her Dodo Esther Archiquette, special daughter Colleen Cottrell, and special grandson Erwin Floyd Cottrell; her parents Rebecca and Nelson Ninham; siblings Vernon (Joy) Ninham, John Ninham, Marion Ninham, Harold (Alice) Ninham, Clyde Ninham, Harlan Ninham, and Telka Ninham; in laws Erwin Cottrell, Sr., Inez Cottrell, Gay Cottrell, Edward Cottrell, Frank (Maxine) Cottrell, Floyd (Betty) Cottrell, Clyde (Delores) Cottrell, June (Harlan) Anderson, and Constance Joyce Cottrell. Family and friends may call at Ryan Funeral Home, 305 N. Tenth Street, De Pere, Wisconsin 54115, on Wednesday January 17, 2024, from 2pm until time of service at 4pm. Nona will be laid to rest at Oneida Methodist Church Cemetery, next to her husband Erwin, at a later date. Nona’s family would like to send a thank you to the nursing staff of Anna John Resident Centered Care Community. The Cottrell family would also like to extend a thank you to Regina Vande Hei and Michelle Cottrell for assisting during Nona’s final time. IRENE J. HILL June 13, 1935 - December 29, 2023 Irene J. Hill, 88, passed away peacefully at home on December 29, 2023. She was born in Oneida, Wisconsin, on June 13, 1935, to the late Alexander and Melinda Webster. She was a CNA at Anna John Nursing Home, until her retirement. She was an avid Chicago Bears fan. She also enjoyed watching her birds and spending time with family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Irene is survived by her daughters, Mary Ann Peters and Victoria Hill, sisters-inlaw Beverly Skenandore, Brenda (Glen) KALIHWISAKS Vanden Langenberg, Jeanne (Jerry) Kurowski, Tober (Richard) Brzezinski, and brother-in-law John (Janet) Hill. She is further survived by her grandchildren, Quentin, Kendra, Vanessa, Vance, Devon, Desmond, and Dayton, and her great-grandchildren, Elias, Duwayne, Charles “Yoshi”, Kassianna, Nellina, Mason, Thiago, Kamyah, Edison, Silas, Cam’ron, and Uliya (Baby Pearl Irene). She is preceded in death by her husband Casper E. “Bummy” Hill, daughter Carolyn J. Hill, sisters, Phyllis and Mary Webster, son-in-law Rick “Magoo” Peters, sistersin-law Wanda (Cliff) Webster and Rona (Tom) Begay. Family and friends may call at Ryan Funeral Home, 305 N. Tenth St. De Pere, WI 54115, from 9-11am on Friday, January 5, 2024. Service will start at 11am followed by burial at Oneida Methodist Church Cemetery at 1:15pm. Ryan Funeral Home, De Pere, is assisting the family. Special thanks to the County Rescue, Hobart Police Department, and the First Responders for their great care and compassion during this time. RUTH M. HOUSE June 9, 1953 - December 28, 2023 Ruth M. House, 70, passed away peacefully on Thursday morning, December 28, 2023, at Anna John Nursing Home. One of seven children to Kenneth House and Rebecca Cornelius, Ruthie was born on June 9, 1953, and was raised in Chicago, IL. She graduated from Senn High School in 1971. She continued to live in Chicago through most of her adult life; being a hardworking, single mother to her only daughter, Jennifer. Her favorite things to do in her earlier years were biking along Lake Michigan with her daughter, beading, and woodworking. She loved music, movies, professional wrestling, and anything Cher. In 1993, she courageously left her family and friends in Chicago and moved to Green Bay, WI for new and better oppor- Continued on PG 23 Ruth M. House ONEIDA-NSN.GOV From page 22/Ruth M. House tunities. Here, she flourished making new friends, cherished funny memories, and found a job she loved doing, working at the Oneida Casino. As time went on and Ruthie could not enjoy her favorite hobbies like she once did, her determined spirit helped her find new ones, like puzzles, playing cards (in which she was not a good winner or loser), and she loved reading a good autobiography, particularly on the Kennedy family. She also developed quite the love of debating conspiracy theories and never lost her love for music, professional wrestling, and Cher. She will be remembered as generous, independent, strong-willed, a hard worker, and proud. She was incredibly feisty which made her only more lovable, and she possessed some of the greatest positivity, even when life gave her a lemon tree, she always had a great sense of humor and never took herself too seriously. Lastly, she was one of the most loyal people and a great woman who did her best, and that is all that can be asked for in a mother and human being. Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 4, 2024, from 10am-12pm at Ryan Funeral Home, 305 N. Tenth Street, De Pere. To extend online condolences, please visit www.ryanfh.com. Thank you to Anna John Nursing home for taking care of her and making her feel loved and cared for. DONALD "DON" FRANK LEMIEUX, JR. July 22, 1949 - December 29, 2023 Donald “Don” Frank LeMieux, Jr., age 74 of the Town of Sturgeon Bay, passed away on Friday, December 29, 2023, at his home. Don was born on July 22, 1949, to the late Donald and Hilda (John) LeMieux, Sr., in Sturgeon Bay. He was a graduate of Sevastopol High School. Don enlisted and proudly served in the United States Army from 1967-1970 during the Vietnam War. After his enlistment, he returned home to Sturgeon Bay. On January 21, 1982, Don was united in OBITUARIES marriage to Judy W. Beilfuss in Sturgeon Bay. In 1983, Don graduated from NWTC as an electrician and worked his way to being a master electrician. He worked for Peterson Builders, Palmer Johnson Yachts and Fincantieri (Bay Shipbuilding). Don enjoyed fishing, dartball, and softball. Over the years he played softball with the Eagles Club, Stein Old Timers, and Greystone Castle. He was well known for helping others and would give you the shirt off his back if you needed it. Most of all, Don loved his family and the time he spent with them. Don is survived by his beloved wife, Judy; five children, Todd (Jennier) LeMieux, Kristine LeMieux, Joshua LeMieux, Jennifer Stephany, and Cory LeMieux; grandchildren, Jill, Olivia, Laura, David, Amanda, Tia, and Kaiden; great grandchildren, Benjamin, Beau, Nels, and Nova May; sisters and brother, Mona (Mike) Deremo, Wanda LeMieux, Joan (Jon) Beilfuss, Eva (Dave) Anderson, Olivia Deremo, and Mark Lemieux; sister and brothers-in-law, Joan (Robert) Somers, Jack (Nancy) Beilfuss, Jerry (Renate) Beilfuss, Jeff Beilfuss, Marvin Beilfuss, and Jan (Dawn) Beilfuss. He is further survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Iola LeMieux in infancy; his father and mother-in-law, Marvin and Beatrice Beilfuss; and brothers-in-law, Joel Beilfuss, Allen Deremo, and Jay Beilfuss in infancy. The LeMieux family would like to extend a special thank you to Door County EMS, Door County Sheriff’s Department and Deputy M. Olendzki, Deputy A. Tlachac, Sgt. T. Lemke, and Shalene from the Door County Medical Examiner’s office for their care and compassion during this difficult time. A funeral service for Don will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 3, 2024, at Zion Ev. Lutheran Church in West Jacksonport, 6704 County Road T, Egg Harbor, WI 54209, with Pastor Peter Lindemann officiating. Burial will be at Bayside Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 2, 2024, at Huehns Funeral Home, 1414 Michigan Street, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. and at the church on Wednesday from 9:30am. until 10:50am. FEBRUARY 2024 | 23 Expressions of sympathy and memories of Don may be shared with his family through his tribute page at www.huehnsfuneralhome.com. MARION LOU (DUPREY) NINHAM March 13, 1948 - January 3, 2024 Marion Lou (Duprey) Ninham, 75, passed away peacefully at Aurora Hospital in Green Bay, WI on January 3rd, 2024, just shortly after midnight, with family by her side. She was born to Roy L. Duprey and Marie H (Pennenberg) Duprey in Green Bay, WI on March 13, 1948, at St. Mary’s Hospital. Marion “Ma” attended West De Pere High School, De Pere, WI and later graduated from Cornerstone Bible Training Center in 2005, with an Associated Degree in Theology/Biblical Studies. Psalm 116:15 – Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints. Ma was dad’s co-driver, going cross country through the USA and Canada as transportation engineers. She was a small business owner with her brother, Jimmy Duprey, for Modern Painting in San Jose, California. She said the highlight of working for her brother was when she gave him an ultimatum of becoming a 40% business partner and he caved in. She later moved back to Wisconsin and worked as contractor/painter with her sister, Annie Luecke, and good friend, Sandy Phillips. She also worked for Nicolet paper company in De Pere. She was a CNA at Anna John Nursing Home, San Luis Nursing Home, and Rennes Nursing Home. Because mom loved children, she drove a bus for Lamers Bus Lines, specifically the handicap bus. She enjoyed delivering flowers for Schroeder’s Flowers in Allouez. Ma’s higher calling was Evangelistic/ Christian Outreach. She would travel with dad to various churches preaching, singing, and giving testimony of God’s goodness and mercy. Ma was a foundational leader for Du Pray Ministries. She was also a member of Faith in Action in Oneida. Continued on PG 24 Marion Lou (Duprey) Ninham 24 | FEBRUARY 2024 From page 23/Marion Lou (Duprey) Ninham Marion is survived by her husband, Cletus M. Ninham; son, Cletus M. Ninham II; her special sisters Carol Ninham and Annie Luecke; and her two loving brothers, “Jimmy” Duprey and Donnie Duprey (Stagecoach, Nevada). She is further survived by her grandson Alex Ninham (special friend Alicia Dreis) and granddaughter Bryanna Ninham, along with their mother, Carrie Ninham. She was preceded in death by her daughters Amy and Tammy; her parents Roy L Duprey and Marie H. Duprey; her in-laws Nelson and Rebecca Ninham; and her two sisters Jeannie Fawley and Joanie Rousseau. Family and friends may call at The Visible Church, 2450 Velp Ave., Green Bay, WI from 9-11am on Saturday, January 13, 2024. A Celebration of Life will begin at 11AM with Pastor Ben Lamb presiding. Ryan Funeral Home, De Pere, is assisting the family. A special thank you to Aurora Hospital, hospice, Titletown Dialysis and to the numerous family members and friends who have stepped up and filled the gap celebrating her journey home. Thank you to Pastor Ben Lamb from The Visible Church and Pastor Joe Cornelius from Oneida Assembly. And a special thank you to Rebecca Nowak-Wied. NATHAN S. SMITH July 29, 1935 - December 26, 2023 Nathan S. Smith, 88, Oneida, passed away Tuesday morning, December 26, 2023, at the Wisconsin Veterans Home in King. He was born July 29, 1935, to the late Shelson and Irene (Elm) Smith. Nathan served his country in the United States Air Force from 1952 – 1956. He was a proud member of the Robert Cornelius Post in Oneida. On October 16, 1982, he married Carol Cornelius. Nathan ran Thunderbird Auto in Oneida for many years. He is survived by his wife Carol, his two sons, Blake (significant other Carol) Smith, and Kent (significant other Marie) Smith. Stepchildren; Bonita (Ernie) Nicholas – OBITUARIES Marlewski, Geraldine (Joe) Danforth, and Denise (Michael) McVeigh. His grandchildren, Ashley, Thunder (Melanie), Blaze, and Ryder. Nathan is further survived by 13 grandchildren, especially Misty. He was preceded in death by his parents, son Wayne Smith, stepson Franklin Nicholas, stepdaughter Linda Nicholas, and two sisters: Geraldine (Russel) Parker, and Lavonne Smith. Friends may call at Ryan Funeral Home 305 N. Tenth Street, De Pere from 9:00AM Saturday, December 30, 2023. The Oneida Hymn Singers will sing at 10:30am, followed by a service at 11am with Fr. James Biegler officiating. Full military honors will follow the service. LEO SUNDQUIST September 13, 1951 - January 4, 2024 Leo Sundquist, 72, of Green Bay, passed away on January 4, 2024 at Crossroads Care Center. He was born on September 13, 1951 to Walter and Gladys (Cornelius) Sundquist in Oshkosh. Leo served in the US Army as a company clerk stationed in Germany. He played various sports in his early years. Leo worked various jobs driving truck, working auctions, maintaining several houses for a landlord, and retiring from Oneida Nations Custodial Department where he worked for 13 years. He also enjoyed riding his motorcycle and mountain bikes all around Northeastern Wisconsin. Leo liked to watch sports on TV, listening to the oldies, and growing vegetables in his garden. Leo is survived by his sister, Marilyn (Robert) Duffibaugh, brother, Jeff Sundquist; and is further survived by many nieces, nephews, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, five brothers: Walter, Charles, Gilbert, Clifford, and John; and one sister, Nancy. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 10, 2024 from 10-11am at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions, 340 S. Monroe Ave Green Bay with funeral service to follow at 11am. Interment will take place at 1pm at Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Oshkosh. The family would like to extend a thank you KALIHWISAKS to the staff at Crossroads Care Center for all their wonderful care, comfort, and support that was given to Leo and the family. Snowplow Season Oneida Aging & Disability Services encourages everyone to plan for any snowstorm and keep safe. • Our priority is 75 years +, current dialysis patients, disabled 55 years + and those with lifeline services. • If you’re already on the snow removal list, there’s no need to call & check every snowstorm, as multiple calls may tie up the phone lines. • Snow removal is for snow accumulations of three (3) inches or more. • Our staff has 90+ driveways on our lists- so please be patient, workers will get to you as soon as they can! • Workers will first clear an emergency access path in & out of the driveway. Depending on how bad the weather is, they may return the next day to get walkways, ramps, mailboxes, and so forth. • For worker’s safety, workers will not enter roads that have not yet been plowed by their respective municipalities. • We do not pay for snow removal from external businesses. • Consider rescheduling any appointments if your driveway hasn’t been cleared as we will not be taking special requests to be plowed first. We ask for your patience and understanding during the upcoming winter months. We strongly encourage family members to check on their elders and to help elders with snow removal. NEWS ONEIDA-NSN.GOV FEBRUARY 2024 | 25 FCC’S ANTENNA STRUCTURES Local Notice as Part of the Environmental Notification Process for the Federal Communications Commission PURPOSE Install a two- way radio system for the Oneida Police Department (OPD) to improve overall public safety Provide internet/broadband service for tribal and non-tribal homes and businesses HOW Employ "point to multi-point" wireless connections, specifically "fixedwireless," where home-installed antennas connect to the nearest tower Not every home and business will have line-of-sight access to the tower, this initiative represents a significant step toward enhancing broadband coverage across the reservation TOWER 1 TOWER 2 TOWER 3 150-foot monopole structure + 10-foot extension attachment 100-foot self-supporting lattice structure + 10-foot extension attachment 909 Packerland Dr. Green Bay, WI West of County Rd. E, across from Oneida One-Stop, north of the intersection with County Rd. Ee 180-foot selfsupporting lattice structure + 10-foot extension attachment N7890 Cooper Rd. Oneida, WI Review the application for this project by going to www.fcc.gov/asr/applications and entering the Antenna Structure Registration (ASR) Form 854 File Number “A1262330” Raise environmental concerns about the proposed structure by filing a request for environmental review with the FCC online, instructions can be found at www.fcc.gov/asr/environmentalrequest 26 | FEBRUARY 2024 NEWS KALIHWISAKS Oneida Nation Vocational Rehabilitation Project Changing Lives of Those with Disabilities Submitted by Ernest Oberst Oneida Vocational Rehab Manager For individuals with disabilities who aspire to join the workforce, the path to finding gainful employment with a secure job tailored to their needs can be challenging. However, there's a valuable resource here at Oneida that was specifically created to help Federally Recognized Enrolled Tribal Members. Oneida Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) provides specialized services that are designed to empower individuals with disabilities by providing them with individualized support, training, and resources on their path to meaningful employment. Terri Conn is our counselor and will meet with you one-on-one to create a plan for success. OVR started working with a client in June 2023. After learning of the client's diagnosed disability and past criminal history, we developed an intense Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE). OVR provided counseling and helped build the path to the career that the consumer was interested in. The client understood that the plan was going to take time and personal initiative to be successful. As this individual worked an hourly position, they also attended Northeast Wisconsin Technical College to get the certification that was needed to pursue the career that was in the IPE. While they completed those steps, OVR helped with them create a resume and cover letter for the desired position. If you have a disability or diagnosis that causes substantial barriers to employment, you may be eligible for OVR services., Please call 920-490-3900 or email VRServices@OneidaNation.org. When I came to see Ernest at Vocational Rehabilitation, I didn’t know what else to do to get ahead of the situation I created. I have a diagnosed disability and I used drugs to cope. Now I have a possession charge, served prison time and I am 2 years into my 5 years of probation. I didn’t think anyone could help me. Ernest kept in contact with me almost daily, getting a resume completed and looking for jobs for me, he even met me at an Aldi's off the highway one day when I was running from Howard to Appleton, just so I could give him some paperwork that he needed. I would just say to anyone, don’t give up and go see Oneida Vocational Rehabilitation. Anonymous EVENTS ONEIDA-NSN.GOV FEBRUARY 2024 | 27 JUST MOVE IT ONEIDA healthy heart kickstart WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21ST 2024 | 4-6 PM Oneida Nation Elementary School N7125 Seminary Rd, Oneida, WI 54155 LITTLE BEAR DEVELOPMENT CENTER (LBDC) Phone Directory Options Changing Please note the new phone options for LBDC. When calling the building you will be given 5 options to choose from. They are: 1 - Planning Department . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 4529 2 - Zoning Department . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 4536 3 - Engineering Department . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 4543 4 - Environmental Department . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 4555 5 - DPW Administration Department . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 4562 Or stay on the line and your call will be routed to the receptionist. FREE JMIO PLAID FLEECE BLANKET TO THE FIRST 150 PARTICIPANTS. WHITE CORN CHILI! (WHILE SUPPLIES LAST) 2024 JMIO PUNCH CARD ATTEND 8 OF THE 12 EVENTS TO BE ENTERED IN THE GRAND PRIZE DRAWING AT THE END OF THE YEAR. PARTICIPANTS OF ALL AGES CAN CREATE A FUN & EDUCATIONAL STEM PROJECT. For more information or questions contact Hanna Leisgang: 920-490-3927 hleisgan@oneidanation.org @JustMoveIt Oneida 12/28/2023 The Wellness Council presents: Unlock the Door to Your Dream Home with Bay Bank Winter Wellness Talks Topic & Date: Heart Health February 7, 2024 Nutrition March 6, 2024 We’re not just a lender; we’re your ally in the journey to homeownership. We understand that for many, a home is more than just a place to live; it’s a lifelong goal and a fundamental part of their lives. Time: 12:10-12:45PM Location: Oneida Health Center North & South Conference Rooms Alcohol & Substance Use April 3, 2024 Our Section 184 Indian Home Loan Program is designed to help make your dream of homeownership a reality. Contact Taylor Jean for more information or future topic suggestions. tjean@oneidanation.org or 920-490-3940 Enrolled members of a federally recognized tribe or Alaskan natives may be eligible for the Section 184 loan program. Apply online: Contact a lender today: BayBankgb.com (920) 490-7600 NMLS# 440202 01/02/2024 28 | FEBRUARY 2024 MENTAL HEALTH KALIHWISAKS DON’T FORGET MENTAL HEALTH DURING NATIONAL SELF-CHECK MONTH Mari Kriescher By Mari Kriescher Oneida Behavioral Health If the pandemic taught us anything about mental health, it’s that mental health is just as important to a harmonious life as physical and emotional health. National Self-Check Month in February is a great reminder to check in on our emotional and mental health and overall well-being. Before starting your self-check, it may help to set the tone for your emotional and mental review. Remind yourself that it’s OK to think about how you feel. When you try to ignore them, your negative feelings can become larger mental health issues. Review the good feelings too. Recognizing positive parts of your life can lead to improved mental health. Here are some simple questions and ideas you can use during your self-check. • Ask yourself how you feel in this moment and how long have you felt that way? Run through every emotion you can think of, from anger and embarrassment to love and compassion. • When experiencing or recalling a feeling, recognize how your body reacts to that feeling. Do you clench your teeth or find yourself smiling? Did your heart start to pound or did your body relax? From happiness to shame, and everywhere in between, emotions can manifest with physical reactions. • Ask yourself if you’ve had any recurring thoughts or if your mind keeps replaying a particular encounter or conversation? Think about how you feel each time the recurring thought occurs. Does the emotion dissipate or From page 8/Tsyunhéhkw^ Update students, chaperones, and staff from local schools visited the farm including King Middle School, Milwaukee Indian School, Seymour Middle School, Freedom Middle School, Rock Ledge Elementary School, and Oneida Head Start. Students had the opportunity to take part in stations where they learned how to husk corn by Tsyunhéhkwa^ staff, listened to oral storytelling of the ancient Skywoman story by Cultural Heritage staff, and enjoyed a wagon ride while learning about the farm. A special Yaw^ko to the Cultural Heritage staff that dedicated their time and shared their passion and knowledge with our youth. Currently, 100% of the corn harvested in 2023 is drying and will be sent to the Cannery for distribution. Before the harvest, the newest Oneida Nation Apple Orchard employees, our chickens, went over to graze beneath the fruit trees in the off season, as they switched over to regenerative practices which included not spraying pesticides on the trees. Save the date for next year's Harvest Fest, which is held on the first Saturday of October. We hope you will come to Tsyunhéhkw^ to visit or volunteer! intensify with each recurrence? • Have you been worrying lately? If so, ask yourself if there is something you can do to change what you’re worrying about? • Take stock of what you’re doing for enjoyment and relaxation. • Ask yourself if you’re eating well, moving, and sleeping well. • How often do you rely on substances like alcohol, drugs, or cigarettes to deal with emotions? Asking yourself questions like these can help you identify both where you’re doing well and areas of your life that may need attention. If you find that you want a little extra help, Oneida Behavioral Health has resources you can use to help restore harmony in mind, body, and spirit. Call us at (920) 490-3790 or learn more about the services we provide. Click or Scan the QR Code to view Behavioral Health Services ONEIDA-NSN.GOV COMMUNITY FEBRUARY 2024 | 29 Oneida Nation Board, Committee, or Commission WE ARE HIRING APPLY FOR A POSITION We Are Looking For QUALIFIED APPLICANTS TO FILL POSITIONS ON BCC Vacancies & Applications CONTACT GOVERNMENT ADMISISTRATIVE OFFICE (GAO) 920.869.4303 FOR MORE INFORMATION oneida-nsn.gov/government/boardscommittees-and-commissions/vacancies/ 30 | FEBRUARY 2024 ENTERTAINMENT KALIHWISAKS INDIGENOUS REPRESENTATION ON THE BIG SCREEN By Mia Charnon Kalihwisaks/Creative Services According to a recent report from the University of Southern California’s Annenberg Inclusion Initiative, which took inventory of 1,600 top films from the past 16 years, less than 1% of all speaking characters were Native American—and 25% of those parts were played by non-Native actors. Lily Gladstone Gladstone continued to amaze as she began her acceptance remarks by speaking in the Blackfeet language. “Hello, all my relations,” said Gladstone, according to a translation by Karla Bird, Tribal Outreach Specialist at the University of Montana. “My name is Eagle Woman. I am Blackfeet. I love you.” Gladstone is of Blackfeet and Nez Perce heritage and spent the beginning of her life on the Blackfeet Reservation in Montana. She won her first Golden Globe for her role as Mollie Burkhard in the film, Killers of the Flower Moon, the story of an Osage woman whose family is murdered after oil is discovered on the Photo courtesy of Smithsonian Magazine. Gladstone received an Academy Award Nomination for Best Actress nomination. The film received 10 nominations, including Best Picture. land of the Osage Nation in Oklahoma in the 1920s. She continued her speech by calling out the lack of Indigenous representation in Hollywood. “I’m so grateful that I can speak even a little bit of my language, which I’m not fluent in, up here, because in this business, Native actors used to speak their lines in English, and then the sound mixers would run them backwards to accomplish Native lan- guages on camera,” said Gladstone. Reservation Dogs FX’s Reservation Dogs is a halfhour comedy series that follows the adventures “Elora Danan” (Devery Jacobs), “Bear Smallhill” (D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai), “Willie Jack” (Paulina Alexis) and “Cheese” (Lane Factor), four Indigenous teenagers in rural Oklahoma. Devery Jacobs is an award-winning actress, writer, director, and producer. She is a socially conscious voice from Kahnawà:ke Mohawk Territory as she uses her platform to advocate for Indigenous and LGBTQ2S+ rights. D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai is a 21-yearold Oji-Cree First Nations actor who earned a 2023 Critics Choice Award nomination for Best Actor in a Comedy Series for Reservation Dogs. He can also be seen in the film Beans, an official Toronto International Film Festival 2020 selection and winner for Best Motion Picture from the Cont. on 31/Indigenous Representation ONEIDA-NSN.GOV ENTERTAINMENT From 30/Indigenous Representation Canadian Screen Awards. Paulina Alexis “Wagiya Cizhan” (Young Eagle) is an Indigenous actress and member of the Alexis Nakota Sioux Tribe in central Alberta, Canada. She started her professional acting career at the age of 18 when she was casted as a roller-skating waitress in the film Ghostbusters: Afterlife. Lane Factor received his Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) membership by playing “Cheese” in Reservation Dogs. Factor is a citizen of the Caddo Nation of Oklahoma and is also Creek and Seminole. He also is an inspirational speaker who promotes positivity, kindness, and stepping outside of your comfort zone. FEBRUARY 2024 | 31 MARVEL’S NEWEST SUPER HERO-KAHHORI By Mia Charnon Kalihwisaks/Creative Services Season two of Marvel’s animated series, What if…?, introduces a new character, Kahhori, a young Mohawk woman living in a Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) Confederacy village of pre-colonial America. The series explores the alternate timelines of major events in the multiverse from the films of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and how they could have occurred differently. What if…Kahhori Reshaped the World? follows Kahhori, pronounced “KAH-HORTI,” who lives up to her Wolf Clan name, which means “She Moves/Stirs the Forest” or “Someone Photo courtesy of IMDB.com Who Motivates Those Around Her,” Kawennáhere Devery Jacobs is the voiceas she ventures into the Forbidden over talent for the Kahhori character. Lake to save her people. The episode is significant and inspiring because it accurately depicts the civilization, surrounding wilderness, and clothing of the Haudenosaunee people and features a character that is authentically created specifically for What..If?. The episode aired entirely in the Kanien'kéha (Mohawk language), a result of a four-year collaboration with the Kanien’kehá:ka (Mohawk Nation). Kahhori is voiced by Kawennáhere Devery Jacobs, an award-winning actor, writer, and filmmaker born in the Kahnawà:ke Mohawk territory of Quebec, Canada. Jacobs is most known for her in roles in the FX series Reservation Dogs, Netflix’s The Order, and her breakout role in Rhymes for Young Ghouls. What if…Kahhori Reshaped the World? accurately demonstrates the power of allowing people to tell their own stories which is illustrated by the partnership between the MCU and the Mohawk Nation. Director Bryan Andrews expressed that the consultants were amazed by how this episode was taking shape and they wrote a letter sharing how for the first time they felt their people were being honestly represented in the media. The episode debuted on December 22, 2023, and both seasons of Marvel’s What If...? are streaming now on Disney+ (subscription required). PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAI D ONEIDA WI 54155 PERMIT NO. 4 PO Box 365, Oneida, WI 54155-0365 • 2701 W. Mason St., Green Bay, WI 54155 Garth Webster Kalihwisaks/Creative Services 920.496.5632 For All Submissions kalihwisaks@oneidanation.org Michelle Danforth-Anderson Marketing & Tourism Director Nicole Hrabik Graphic Designer Contributors: Mia Charnon • Eric Doxtator Trista Cornelius-Henricks • Leon Webster • Peggy Doxtater Nevada Skenandore • Mel Webster • Leah Kuchta www.oneida-nsn.gov/resources/kalihwisaks/ By Garth Webster Kalihwisaks/Creative Services The Winter Gathering Pow Wow was held at the Oneida Hotel on Saturday, January 13, 2024. The event proved to be aptly named as the 1pm grand entry was delayed two hours due to Blizzard Bennett, which dumped a foot or more of snow in many areas of Northeast Wisconsin, causing whiteout conditions followed by subzero temperatures and wind chills. Despite the weather, everyone safely arrived to enjoy song and dance, great company, and arts and crafts from numerous vendors. There were over 100 dancers at event. Stay tuned for details on the 50th Annual Oneida Pow Wow happening this summer, June 28-30, 2024. @kalihwisaks --- Source: Frix Law Library, https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/tribal%3Aoneida_nation%3A46560aafb7f74b9a. Public record. Not legal advice.