# Your Oneida Nation Connection (2024)

> Briefs, arguments, decisions, and more.

URL: https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/tribal%3Aoneida_nation%3Aee961c1e5c65fca4

## Record

- **Collection:** Tribal code
- **Document type:** Tribal code

## Text

Your Oneida Nation Connection

JULY 2024

ONEIDA
LAKE
Now
Open

See pg. 3 to learn how you can help stop
plastic from polluting our water ways.

BUSINESS
COMMITTEE
FORUM
Councilman Kirby Metoxen
promotes economic development
and tourism. See pg. 2.

RITES OF
PASSAGE

Oneida Youth strengthen their fires
to become tomorrow’s leaders.
See page pgs. 14 & 15.

2|

JULY 2024

Submitted by Kirby Metoxen
Oneida Nation Council Member

I'm currently serving my third term
as an elected official on the Oneida
Nation Business Committee and I've
represented the Oneida Nation in various
capacities, with a focus on tourism and
the sustainability of Oneida. Prior to
assuming my role as a Council Member,
I was employed by the Oneida Tourism
Department as a Special Events Tourism
Coordinator for a period of 26 years.
My passion and experience has
given me the knowledge to increase
the Nation’s visibility throughout the
state and region through tourism and
economic development initiatives. Native

BC FORUM
American Tourism of Wisconsin (NATOW)
is a pivotal tourism partnership that
enhances Tribal tourism and economic
development, while highlighting the
beauty, diversity, and cultural dynamism
of the 11 federally recognized Tribes of
Wisconsin.
Tourism stands as the preeminent
industry in Tribal economies, playing a
pivotal role in the generation of employment
opportunities and revenues essential for
governmental services benefiting Tribes and
their members. These services encompass
healthcare, housing, education, elder care,
pre-kindergarten, and more. By broadening
their tourism endeavors across the state,
region, and nation, the Tribes of Wisconsin
are fortifying their endeavors towards selfsufficiency and economic enhancement.
NATOW comprises representatives from
each tribe convening bi-monthly to
deliberate and execute strategic initiatives.
I advocate for Tribal art, traditions, and
culture, recognizing their profound
significance within Native communities in
the state, thereby positioning Wisconsin
as a distinctive destination for exploring
the historical narrative of Native American
peoples in the Great Lakes Region.
On June 13-15, 2024, I also participated
in the 2024 NATOW Annual Conference
held at the Legendary Waters Resort &
Casino in Red Cliff, Wisconsin. The theme

KALIHWISAKS

for this year's conference was "20 years of
NATOW and We Are Still Here," emphasizing
their dedication to sustainable tourism
encompassing cultural, agricultural, and
business sectors. The annual NATOW
conference serves as a platform for Nations
to showcase their unique tourism offerings
and shed light on the distinctive features
of their regions. For more information on
NATOW or upcoming events, please visit
natow.org.
As Council Member, I will diligently
uphold my commitment to the Nation by
actively participating in the Legislative
Operating Committee (LOC) and fulfilling
liaison responsibilities with the Southeast
Wisconsin Oneida Tribal Services
Advisory Board (SEOTS), Oneida Airport
Hotel Corporation (OAHC), and the Audit
Committee.

Photo Courtesy of Kirby Metoxen

Councilman Kirby Metoxen at the State of
the Tribes Address in Madison, WI.

The 56th Annual Oneida Royalty
Pageant was held Tuesday, June
18, 2024 at the Oneida Hotel to bid
farewell to the outgoing Royalty and
introduce the new 2024 Miss Oneida,
Yelihwakanyehs Powless, Jr. Miss
Oneida, Joie (Kuwanata•yani) Gutierrez,
and Lil Miss Oneida, Lucia Stevens.
Good job to all the contestants!

ONEIDA-NSN.GOV

ENVIRONMENTAL

By Garth Webster
Creative Services/Kalihwisaks

ABC News published a YouTube
video in May 2023 reporting on their
experiment of placing trackers inside
plastic bags that were inserted into
recycle bins. The intent was to discover
if the bags actually got to a recycle
center. The results were discouraging
with just four of the 46 trackers finding
their way to a recycle center.
Although plastic bags are
manufactured to be recycled or reused,
99% of the roughly 100 billion plastic
bags used in the United States (US)
each year are recycled. This leads to
bags frequently finding their way into
landfills, then to water ways, and then
to places such as the Great Pacific
Garbage Patch, the largest of five
garbage patches fueled with refuse
by prevailing ocean currents, unable
to escape due to the vortex.
Even when bags break down in the
environment, they don’t biodegrade.
Rather, they break into smaller pieces
known as micro-plastics, which are
consumed by sea life and then, by
humans, causing a laundry list of health
conditions. The process of creating
plastic bags compounds their pollution
factor.
Plastic bags are manufactured
using fossil fuels, such as oil, adding
to the climate change conditions
described in the April 2024 edition.
For instance, Polypropylene bags
are made from Polypropylene pellets
derived from refined oil in a process
known as Cracking, where ethane

and propane are super heated and
then combined to form a polymer, or
polymerized, resulting in “fluff.” The
Fluff is then extruded into solid tubes
and cut into tiny pellets. The pellets
are then shipped to manufacturers to
further process the material
into virgin plastic to make
bags. Many t ypes of
bags follow this process,
including polystyrene and
polyethylene, the type of
bag found at many retailers
and grocery stores.
All the science aside,
it’s up to us as consumers
to make decisions as
Keepers of the Earth. Small
steps make a difference,
esp eciall y w hen you
consider this small step
multiplied billions of times
by the Earth’s population.
One of these small steps
are choosing and using
recycled or reusing plastic bags.
Non-woven or woven polypropylene
bags are a wise choice. Cotton bags
are another. However, the most
environmentally friendly alternative
to plastic bags are Jute bags.
Jute bags are made from the natural
fiber that comes from the stem and
skin of the Jute plant, also known as
the "golden fiber". Jute is a renewable
resource that grows in tropical and
humid climates, like Bangladesh and
India. Bags made from Jute are a much
better choice than plastic bags because
they are completely biodegradable.

JULY 2024

|3

Opt for Jute bags when shopping, and
don’t forget to bring them along. Many
buyers often leave their bags at home
or in the car trunk. Lastly, remember
to wash them regularly, as they can
absorb contaminants.
Scan here for 10 facts about
single-use plastic bags

4|

JULY 2024

ELDER INTERVIEW

KALIHWISAKS

By Isaiah Powless

During his early life he
remembers his grandfather
Ira, owning a machine shop
where he would make several
things for Ira and others in the
community. Ira is the youngest
of three, older sisters being
June Begay and Donna Lake.
He had a brother named Gene
who passed away when he
was young. He remembers his
parents raising him as a mixture
of Methodist, 7th Day Adventist
and traditional Oneida beliefs,
before they joined The Church
of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day
Saints. Ira also talks about his
mother raising a number of
foster children throughout his
upbringing. Ira remembers his
Christmas’s usually starting
with his family attending
church on Christmas, and then
opening presents when they
came home.
He would also go Hoyaning
with his neighbors on New
Year’s but would be shooed
away by people. Growing up

Ira attended school in Chicago
Corners for the first eight years
of his education. After Chicago
Corners he attended Seymour
High School, and graduated
in 1957. Later, he attended
Haskell Indian School for nine
months before coming home
and starting a family. He would
marry Amelia Cornelius and
they would have six children
together, Linn Cornelius, Kim
Nishimoto, Laura Larkin, Kevin
Cornelius, Kerry Cornelius, and
Lee Cornelius.

We’d go to church in the day,
and by the time we came
home Santa Clause had been
there. So we’d open our
presents and the go to bed
and get to sleep longer
Ira P. Cornelius

More about Ira Cornelius
♦

Born on Ranch Road in
Outagamie County, September
1st, 1940

♦

Mother was Lydia Summers,
Father was Raymond
Cornelius

♦

Grandparents were Nancy
Doxtator and Ira Cornelius,
Elizabeth Wheelock and
Taylor Summers

♦

His Grandmother (Elizabeth
Wheelock?) spoke Oneida
and English but only Oneida
after she suffered a stroke

Scan the QR
code for the
full interview

ONEIDA-NSN.GOV

REPRESENTATION

JULY 2024

|5

POWLESS Plays

Apache Warrior
in Horizon Movie
By Garth Webster
Creative Services/Kalihwisaks

It was a quiet Thursday morning in
October 2022 when Tyson Powless, his
mother Wisdoma, and sister Burdeena
attended a Navajo Nation Prayer
service in Tuba City, AZ and decided to
get some breakfast at a local Denny’s.
After his meal, Tyson had to leave as
Wisdoma and Burdeena stayed a while
longer to chat, which proved to be very
fortunate for Tyson.
A s W i sdoma and B urde ena
conversed, they were approached by
a Navajo cast recruiter who was looking
for extras for the movie “Horizon: An
American Saga.” This epic Western
film stars Kevin Costner, who also
directed and produced the film, which
debuted June 28, 2024. The recruiter
was seeking individuals to play Apache
Warriors in one of the movie’s upcoming
shoots.
Wisdoma provided Tyson the
Recruiter’s contact information. Tyson,
whose dream is to someday create and
direct movies, got in touch with the
recruiter. He left a message and after a
few weeks passed, was skeptical if they
would return his call. Needless to
say, they did and invited Tyson
to the filming location
in Moab, UT.

Fast forward to February 2023.
After dressing in a private trailer,
Tyson described his gratitude to
the recruiter for, “Giving a Native
an opportunity to get in front of the
camera.” Tyson continued on, chuckling,
“They even had my name on the trailer.”
Once in costume, Tyson came onto the
set, which was on the edge of a cliff
with a few other Apache Warrior Scouts
looking off into the distance watching
their enemies approach. Tyson said
he was the featured extra saying the
camera was right on him. Unfortunately,
we’ll have to wait a bit to see Tyson on
the big screen. His role will be used in
Part 2 of “Horizon: An American Saga”
to be released August 16, 2024.
As alluded to, Tyson is as an aspiring
film maker and director and so when
asked about playing a Native American
in the film he says, “It’s kinda weird not
being Apache but playing an Apache.”
He continued on by explaining he will
continue to work towards his bigger
goal of working behind the movie
camera. Along with the gratitude for the

“Horizon” team, he also emotionally
expressed his appreciation for the
support from his family, most notably
for his late father and the educational
opportunities he created for him (Tyson)
and many other Oneida citizens.
Tyson who formerly worked at the
Arizona State University Jewelry
Studio, is also a very accomplished
silversmith and artist. His jewelry has
been featured in a multitude of shows
near his home in Phoenix, AZ as well
as his artwork that fuses Indigenous
southwest styles with contemporary
imagery. All of Tyson’s creative ability,
along with his ambition, will surely lead
to more success. Tyson hopes one of
these future successes will include a
role in “Dark Winds”, a series based on
the works of novelist Tony Hillerman,
that Tyson will be auditioning for later
this summer.

6|

Here at Duck Creek

JULY 2024

KALIHWISAKS

New Location!

Oneida Farmers Market
The opening day was pretty eventful
because the wind blew our 30 tents
down twice, but because of all our
hardworking volunteers we were able
to have a successful farmers market!
Bruce Garvey, OFM Volunteer
Photo Courtesy Mia Charnon

By Mia Charnon

Creative Services/Kalihwisaks
On June 13, 2024, the Oneida Farmers
Market (OFM) celebrated opening day at its
new location. Previously situated on Water
Circle Place, OFM relocated to N7284 CTH-J,
directly across from the Oneida One Stop-HWY
54. Despite the windy weather, OFM volunteers
were delighted to witness increased market
traffic compared to their previous location. OFM
extends gratitude to the Oneida Department
of Public Works (DPW) for creating this fresh
market space, complete with a new parking
lot and walking paths for shoppers. Mark your
calendars for the Annual OFM Bash on July 18,
featuring food, music, fresh produce, and a car
show sponsored by REZurrected Ridez.

Photo Courtesy Mia Charnon

Symbolic Staining

Oneida Veterans Memorial
By Michelle Danforth-Anderson

Oneida Tourism Director

Photos Courtesy Michelle Danforth-Anderson

ChemArt was commissioned by
Oneida Tourism to produce a stained
variation that harmonizes with the
walls of the Oneida Veterans Memorial.
This endeavor not only protects the
area but also emphasizes the distinct
spaces between each wall, symbolizing
the passage of time between wars.
Next Steps: The Eagle statue base will be
stained and the design concepts for the
pavers will be discussed in July 2024.

ONEIDA-NSN.GOV

LOCAL

JULY 2024

|7

Oneida Hosts Fentanyl
Press Conference
Fentanyl is everywhere, help us end
emergency. Awareness is the first step.
May 30, 2024. Press Release

On Thursday, May 30, 2024 Oneida
Recovery Coach Patrick Danforth,
Assistant Police Chief Joel Maxam, Oneida
Behavioral Health Director Mari Kriescher,
and Oneida Nation Chairman Tehassi Hill
spoke regarding presence of fentanyl in the
Oneida area and the lifesaving resources
available to community members to help
protect their family and friends.

Photo Courtesy Mia Charnon

Scan to view
Fentanyl Is
Everywhere
press release

Oneida Public Transit
Garage Groundbreaking
We would like to recognize Oneida
Public Transit team. Sam Vanden Heuvel
and Oneida Nation Engineering Team.
Carol Stiff, Oneida Public Transit Manager

On Tuesday, June 4, 2024, a
groundbreaking ceremony marked the
beginning of construction for the new
Oneida Public Transit (OPT) Garage. OPT
plans to build a new facility to address their
functional and operational requirements,
as the existing facility was originally
intended as a temporary location. The
new facility will be located near the
Oneida Food Distribution Center on Water
Circle Place and will include office space,
vehicle storage, and wash bay. OPT is
committed to providing safe, reliable,
and affordable public transportation
that supports life-long opportunities to
strengthen education, well-being, and
ts?niyukwalihot^ throughout the Oneida
Community.

Photo Courtesy Garth Webster

Architectural Rendering of the
new Oneida Public Transit Garage

8|

JULY 2024

EVENTS

We want to take your photo.
Headshots will be used for
the IMPACT WALL and life size
ONEIDA TRIBAL WAMPUM BELT
that will be exhibited at
the NEW location.
Together, let’s show the
world how awesome our
community really is!

KALIHWISAKS

Where:
New Museum location
760 Airport Dr.
Oneida, WI 54155
When:
Tue., June 25, 5-7pm
Wed., July 3, 7-9am
Wed., July 31, 5-7pm

Museum
Interested?
Email gwebster@oneidanation.org
or scoon@oneidanation.org
or call 920.869.2768.

COMMUNITY

ONEIDA-NSN.GOV

JULY 2024

|9

Zion Lutheran Church
Celebrates 100 Years

Scan here for a more
detailed history of
Zion Lutheran Church
Photo Courtesy Garth Webster

By Garth Webster
Creative Services/Kalihwisaks

The Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church located at 453
Rose Hill Drive in Oneida is celebrating its 100th year of
existence this year.
The congregation actually dates to the fall of 1923 under
the leadership of Ev. Lutheran Synod of Missouri, Ohio, and
other states who sent the ministerial candidate Cornelius

Aaron to Oneida. Shortly after in January 1924, six members
conducted services in a future boarding house.
On Sunday, June 23, 2024, a church service was conducted
to honor 100 years of service by church members, past
Pastors, and special guest speaker Rev. Dr. Dwayne Lueck.
Members of the Oneida Business Committee were also
invited to the event.

CORRECTION: The June 2024 edition incorrectly spelled one of the early organizers
of the Oneida Pow Wow in the article on page 2 as Ben Vieux. The correct spelling is Ben Vieau.
We apologize for the error. If you spot errors in current or past issues, please contact us by messaging
Kalihwisaks on Facebook, emailing kalihwisaks@oneidanation.org, or call 920.496.5632. Yaw^ko.

10 | JULY 2024

PUBLIC HEALTH

KALIHWISAKS

Submitted by Sacheen Lawrence,
Native American Outreach Specialistand CAB Member

The Oneida Alzheimer’s Community Advisory Board
(CAB) plays a vital role in approving and overseeing
ongoing community research, which includes the
Indigenous Cultural Understandings of Alzheimer’s and
Related Dementias-Research and Engagement (ICARE).
ICARE explores the lived everyday experiences of people
living with or caring for people with Alzheimer’s Disease and
Related Dementias (ADRD) across four diverse Indigenous
communities in Canada and the United States. The project
uses a community-based participatory research approach
and a Two-Eyed Seeing framework (incorporating strengths
of both Indigenous and Western ways of knowing) to
build trusting relationships, investigate the impact of
ADRD across the disease trajectory, and improve the
lives of Indigenous people, families, and communities.
Along with CAB oversight, ICARE is approved by Tribal
governance in each participating community and funded
by the National Institutes of Health. This research is a
collaborative effort between the University
of Minnesota-Duluth Memory
Keeper Medical Discovery
Team, the University of

Wisconsin-Madison, and four Indigenous communities/
regions: 7 Anishinaabe First nations on Manitoulin Island,
Ontario Canada; Red Lake Tribal Nation, Minnesota; Grand
Portage Tribal Nation, Minnesota; and the Oneida Nation,
Wisconsin.
Interviews with participants are conducted by Community
Researchers at each site. So far, they have conducted
interviews with Traditional Knowledge Carriers, health
care providers, healthy older adults, and caregivers of
loved ones living with late-stage dementia. Currently, the
ICARE project is recruiting participants in groups of two –
specifically, people living with mild or moderate dementia
and a loved one who primarily cares for them.
If interested in participating, or simply learning
more, we encourage you to contact the Oneida ICARE
Community Researchers:
Marlene Summers & Lois Metoxen Strong
MSummers4@wisc.edu & LStrong3@wisc.edu
920-371-9685 & 920-819-9606
Scan here for the Oneida
Nation Alzheimer's
Community Advisory
Board Brochure

SPORTS

ONEIDA-NSN.GOV

JULY 2024

| 11

e
s
a
Ch

n
o
r
A

Rodriguez

Bain

Class of 2024 – Oneida Nation High School

Class of 2024 – Seymour Community High School

Cornell College

Onondaga Community College

Playing Lacrosse and
studying Business

Playing Lacrosse and
studying Business

National Night Out Picnic
with Oneida Comprehensive
Housing Division
Oneida Police Department

PO

LIC

®

E • CO

HI
M MUNITY PARTNE RS

PS

Tuesday, Aug 6
4-7pm
Mission Park
Site 1
Oneida, WI
Vendor Interest and Donations Interest, Contact:
Lisa John: 920.609.4306, Isabel Parker: 920.412.0396
OPD Investigator Alexis Woelfel: 920.869.2239 ext. 6657

A community-building
campaign that promotes
police-community partnerships
and neighborhood camaraderie
to make our neighborhoods safer,
more caring places to live.

» Food » Door Prizes » Raffles » Dunk Tank » Cornhole »
Activities » Music by Rock'n Daddys » Rez Rides » Vendors
» Narcan Kits & Training » Drone Presentation

12 | JULY 2024

ARTS

KALIHWISAKS

Oneida Dollars
for Arts Program
By Oneida Nation Arts Program

Photo Courtesy Eliza Skenandore

Eliza Skenandore created her own regalia and shared her process on
Twitch for her FY24 DAP project

Photos Courtesy Martin Prevost

Final dress rehearsal of Martin Prevost’s FY24 DAP project “Captain Wallaby’s
Neighborhood” at the Robert Lee Brault Playhouse

With continuing grant funds from the
Wisconsin Arts Board (WAB), the Oneida
Nation Arts Program has been able to offer
their Dollars for Art Program (DAP) for 25
years. DAP grants are awarded for artistic
endeavors and projects in both traditional and
contemporary styles of visual arts, literature,
music, theatre, and dance. The project period
runs from Oct. 1 – Sept. 30, 2024 every year.
This year, applications are due by Friday, July
26 by 5pm.
DAP grants can be used to fund an array
of art-related projects that are open to the
public. Projects must benefit an Oneida
community in Wisconsin. Martin Prevost, a
fiscal year 2024 DAP grantee, was awarded
an Artist Development grant that he used to
produce an original play, “Captain Wallaby’s
Neighborhood.” Another fiscal year 2024 DAP
grantee, Eliza Skenandore, used her award
to create her own regalia and shared pieces
of her process on Twitch, a live-streaming
platform.
Oneida Nation Arts Board approved several
changes with the intent of improving DAP
for fiscal year 2025. Grantees are no longer
required to cash match their awards. There are
now four award types instead of three; the
Arts Starts Award type has been added. The
Arts Starts Award is for beginner artists who
wish to explore an art medium they are not
familiar with by using funds to take a class or
lessons. The Fellowship Award was replaced
with the Professional Artist Award.
Questions about DAP grants,
Sadie Wilson, Arts Coordinator
SWilson1@oneidanation.org

More Information
on DAP Program
& how to apply

ONEIDA-NSN.GOV

COMMUNITY

JULY 2024 | 13

School Nurse

Administrator of the Year
By Garth Webster
Creative Services/Kalihwisaks
It was a special day for the Oneida Comprehensive
Health Division’s School Nurse, Charlene (Char) Kizior
on Friday, May 31, 2024 as she was recognized by the
Wisconsin Association of School Nurses (WASN) as School
Nurse Administrator of the Year in a ceremonial luncheon
at the Oneida Health Center.
WASN representative Kelly Barlow-Eichman delivered an
emotional tribute for Kizior as her supervisor, Public Health
Manager Debra Santiago and the rest of the nursing team
proudly witnessed Char receive her award.
Over Kizior’s 20 year tenure with Oneida, she’s
exemplified leadership as a member of numerous groups
watching over the wellbeing of our youth, including:

Photos Courtesy Garth Webster
Kelly Barlow-Eichman, left, of the Wisconsin School Nurses Association presents
the School Nurse Administrator of the Year award to Char. Right, Debra Santiago,
Oneida Public Health Manager.

♦ Headstart Advisory Committee
♦ Advisory of the National Association of
School Nurses
♦ Private/Independent and Parochial
School Nurses
♦ National Association of Health
Committee, among others.
Kizior announced she is retiring, making this recognition
doubly special.

I’ve had so many great experiences
and opportunities. Thank you from the
bottom of my heart.
Char Kizior

Bay Area Career Expo
Presented by Oneida Nation

Photo Courtesy Mia Charnon

On Tuesday, June 11, 2024 from 11am-2pm,
the Oneida Nation presented the Bay Area
Career Expo in the Three Clans Ballroom of
the Oneida Hotel. 183 employment seekers
had the opportunity to engage with 70
potential employers and received goodie
bags to support them on their career journey.
Oneida Economic Support provided a gift to
the first four attendees to receive an interview
and the first two attendees to be hired.

Great event - probably one of the
best ones I’ve been to with great
diversity and experiences from
folks. Well done in promoting and
advertising! Can’t wait for next years.
Photo Courtesy Richard Summers III

Employer from Career Expo Survey

14 | JULY 2024

RITES OF PASSAGE

KALIHWISAKS

Oneida Rites of Passage Ceremony / "We are changing our lives"
The Tetwatunhatényehse journey is a sevenyear commitment for the child and their family. It is
comprised of four years of ritual practice within the
greater Tetwatunhatényehse community, followed
by three years of solo time to develop their interests
and gain skills.
The primary focus is to build strong, intelligent,
hardworking men and women with spiritual strength
to lead the future of our communities and Nation.

When are they ready?
For our young men, it is when their voice changes
For our young women, it is when they start their time
of the month also known as getting their moon
The year the child is in will determine the color of their
traditional regalia, their focus, and the length of time in
which they will fast

Sacred Bond
Once it’s recognized that a child is ready to
begin Tetwatunhatenyéhse by their parent or
caregiver, the adults explore the child’s network
of relationships to select two Aunties and two
Uncles. The chosen family members collaborate
to ensure consistent care and support for the
niece/nephew throughout their journey.
Immediately an offering in the form of a
tobacco tie is given to each Auntie and Uncle
that bonds the sacred trust between them and
their niece/nephew.

Preparing
Traditional Lessons and Sweat Lodge Ceremonies
from January through June help participants
prepare for the Rites of Passage Ceremony
New ceremonial clothing, food, and gifts are
expected to be provided for the child
Sewing lessons & guidance on how to make
ceremonial clothes
Traditional cooking classes
Gifts to raise funds for ceremonial baskets
and/or other needed materials

The Rites of Passage Team wishes to thank Ukwakhwa (Our Fo
Steve and Becky Webster for hosting this year's activities

ONEIDA-NSN.GOV

RITES OF PASSAGE

JULY 2024 | 15

Aunties - Aknulha

“She’s watching over me,” “She lends me her
milk,” or “She tends to me”
Guidance on Self-Awareness
The Aunties Council helps nieces and nephews
recognize the emotional, mental, physical, and
spiritual changes occurring within them.

Cultural Empowerment
Guide and shape our nieces and nephews to embody
empowered social roles as women or men, rooted in On
yote·aka culture, beliefs, and practices.
Roles During Fasting Week
Responsible for packing and ensuring nieces and
nephews have only what they need for their time inside
their lodges.

oods) and
s.

Uncles - Laknulha’ “He watches over me”
Acknowledging Unique Talents
Guidance and Mentorship
Helps the youth explore options and consider consequences
to make informed choices.
Identity and Purpose
The Uncles Council assists the youth in finding their identity
and place in the world.
Roles During Fasting Week
Ensuring Safety
Guidance and Preparation
Equipping with Survival Skills
Sacred Fire Keeping

Fasting Week

Guidance on Solitude
Embrace solitude, learn to be comfortable alone
with themselves.
Meditation to Honor Gifts and Rejuvenate
Solitude is not a punishment; it’s a deliberate
choice to honor their unique gifts and rejuvenate
themselves.
Balancing the Test
Guided to trust nature to find balance between
demand and comfort while alone in the wilderness.

Final Feast

For all youth participating, their families, and our
overall community at the end of fasting week to
celebrate the youth and their accomplishments
For more information
Tetwatunhatenyehse · Tetwatunhatenyehse@gmail.com
or call 920.372.8699

16 | JULY 2024

ON THEIR JOURNEY

MARIANNE BOYES
January 12, 1952 - May 4, 2024

Marianne Boyes,
72, peacefully
passed away in
the early morning
hours of May 4th,
2024. She was
home with son,
Phil close by.
Marianne was
born January 12th, 1952 in Chicago, Illinois. She was the child of J.T. and
Maurene (Taylor) Boyes. Her parents
gave her a wonderful childhood, along
with younger brother, John David Boyes,
in Quincy, Illinois. Her parents blessed
her with many opportunities including
piano, clarinet, quilting lessons and
taught her the love of family. She enjoyed
the great company of numerous aunts,
uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews at
many family events.
Marianne graduated from Quincy High
School. She pursued higher education
in Colorado. She valued those life experiences as a young adult in Colorado and
grew into a strong independent woman.
Returning to Illinois she settled in the Chicago area working 25+ years as a Medical
Billing Specialist with Jensik, Faber, Kittle,
Warren, LLC. There she raised her son,
Jon Phillip Boyes, at their home in Willowbrook/Hindsdale. She was a secondary
mom to Phils’ friends and her house was
deemed the clubhouse.
Family and friends were what Marianne
cherished most, always keeping in contact. Lifelong friends include Maria “Lopez”, Kathy Brown, and Jan Rilea.
Marianne was such a class act. She enjoyed all the classics, movies, music, the
arts, furniture and clothes. Rolling Stones,
Gordon Lightfoot, and the Chicago Art
Institute to name a few. She had a great
sense of humor, was the best listener and
always imparted great pearls of wisdom.
She was a great fan of Patrick Mahomes,
Chiefs, the Packers, and the NBA.
Curious of her natural family she searched
and found her siblings in 2014. Sadly her
natural mother, Vera Skenandore Wilson
and sister Roberta Kinzhuma had already
passed. She did meet older sister, Rochelle Powless, and younger siblings,
Don and Bernie Wilson, Priscilla Helen
Shegonee, and Diane Wilson, along with

numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
Together enjoying a number of family get
togethers in Oneida, WI.
Marianne was loved by all she met and
most importantly survived by her son, Jon
Phillip Boyes, who helped her through
her most trying times.
A service has been scheduled for June
1st, 1-4 p.m. at Modell Funeral Home, 7710
S. Cass Avenue, Darien, IL 60561.

RALPH W. CORNELIUS

February 18, 1954 - May 23, 2024
Ralph Wayne Cornelius, 70, of Oneida, passed peacefully Thursday
morning, May
23,2024. Ralph
was born on February 18,1954 in
Manitowoc, WI. He
was Married to the Late Sharon L. Cornelius on February 14, 1992. Ralph was the
son of the late Murphy and Hazel (Powless) Cornelius. With a heart full of creativity, Ralph, an Iroquois Silversmith,
reveled in sharing his craftmanship at
various powwows. His love for art, culture, and music resonated deeply with
those who experienced it. Ralph’s kind
heart was evident in all aspects of his life,
as he generously gave to charities and
lent a helping hand to others whenever
possible. His love for his friends, family,
and dogs only grew stronger with each
passing day, inspiring all who knew him
to live a life filled with kindness and compassion. He was a beacon of encouragement forever cheering for his loved ones,
at other sporting events and meaningful
gatherings. Ralph found solace in nature’s
beauty, witnessing sunrises and sunsets
with awe, and nurturing the wildlife
around his home. His dedication to his
work was unwavering. He spent his
younger years pursuing excitement and
making memories that would last a lifetime. Ralph is survived by his daughter,
Marqita (Ben) Hanko, Manitowoc; Stepchildren: Jeremy (Kateri) Wheelock, Oneida. Jaime Wheelock, Oneida; Grand Children: Twilight, Ava, Kayden, and Anthony
Jr; Great Grand Children: Sophia, Emilio,
and Angel. He was preceded in death by
many friends and family. We would like
to thank Patricia and Bernie for being
there for Ralph throughout the last year.

KALIHWISAKS

We also want to thank the Holy Apostles
Church and Ryan Funeral Home for helping with the arrangements. Most of all we
would like to thank Marqita, Ralph loved
you so much and you did a great job caring for him in his final days. Family and
friends may visit at the Church of the Holy
Apostles, 2937 Freedom Road, Oneida
beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday,
May 29, 2024. A funeral service will begin
at 11:00 a.m. with burial to follow at the
Holy Apostle Cemetery

SANDRA J. CORNELIUS
December 25, 1940 - May 27, 2024

Sandra J. Cornelius, age 83,
passed away surrounded by family
on Monday, May
27, 2024. She was
born on December 25, 1940 in
Oneida, WI to the
late Leander and Evelyn (Hill) Danforth.
She graduated from Seymour High
School. Sandy married Clarence Cornelius on July 1, 1961, at Oneida United Methodist Church in Oneida, WI. They shared
a wonderful life together for 62 years.
Sandy enjoyed spending time with her
family, and prepared specialty meals for
them as well. Some of her families’ favorite meals were macaroni and cheese,
gobbily goop, jello desserts, and enchiladas. She also often played board games
and video games with her grandsons.
She had many friends in California where
she and Clarence lived for 22 years. She
liked working switchboard at the Oneida
Health Center for many years.
Sandy loved the Lord and had daily Bible
readings. She had many different charities that she donated to including, St.
Josephs Indian School, and Pastor David Jeremiah. She was a very generous
woman.
Sandy is survived by her husband, Clarence, her two sons, Clarence Wesley
(Rosita) Cornelius, and Matthew (Penny)
Cornelius, grandchildren Joel, Christopher, Eric, Shawn, Aaron, and Stephen.
She is further survived by numerous nieces and nephews.
Sandy was preceded in death by her
daughter Bonnie, her parents, and her
siblings, Delphine Doxtator, Leander Dan-

ONEIDA-NSN.GOV

ON THEIR JOURNEY

forth, Kenneth Danforth, Arlene Danforth,
and Joe Danforth.
Friends may call on Saturday, June 1,
2024 from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM at Assembly of God Church, N7321 Olson Rd, Oneida, WI 54155. The Oneida Hymn Singers
song service will begin at 12:30 PM, with
the funeral service to begin immediately
following. Burial will occur at a later date.
The family would like to give a special
thank you to Dr. Flood at Oneida Health
Center, Maria Danforth in Elderly Services, St. Vincent Hospital 4th Floor and
ICU, and Pastor Joel Cornelius and Terry
Doxtator from Assembly of God Church.

WENDEL L. CORNELIUS

February 20, 1943 - June 4, 2024
Wendel L. Cornelius, 81, Oneida,
passed away
peacefully Tuesday, June 4, 2024
surrounded by his
family. He was
born February 20,
1943, to the late
Arthur and Sadie (Metoxen) Cornelius Sr.
On April 22, 1977, he was united in marriage to Margaret Heath.
Always a free spirit, Wendel enjoyed
rooting for the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears, and spending time with his
grandkids.
Wendel had worked at Vlasic Pickels,
Yellow Cab, Flash Cab, Bay City Cab, and
spent his later years at Oneida Bingo.
He is survived by his wife Margaret, his
children; Dan (Linda), Wendel Jr. (Bobbi
Jo), Stevie (Yvette), Brian, Allen (Jessica), Michelle (Richard), Sadie (Orlando),
Annette (Ernest), as well as 38 grandchildren, 44 great grandchildren and daughter in law Amy Cornelius. Wendel’s siblings; Betty Stensloff, Carol Smith, Arthur
(Beth) Cornelius Jr., and in-laws, Janice
(Philip), Willy, Linda, and Stevie.
Wendel was preceded in death by his
parents Arthur and Sadie, his stepfather
Sherman Cornelius, his son Brad Cornelius, brother Robert Cornelius, and sister
Marlene O’Donnell.
Friends may call at Oneida Methodist
Church from 9:00AM Monday, June 10,
2024, until time of service at 11:00AM.
Ryan Funeral Home, De Pere is assisting

the family.
Special thanks to staff at Crossroads
West, Unity, and Heartland Hospices.

SARA M. EISCH

July 5, 1984 - May 22, 2024
Sara Marie Eisch,
39, Oneida, died
unexpectedly on
May 22, 2024.
She was born on
July 5, 1984 to Rita
Reiter and Michael
Eisch. Sara graduated from Seymour High School. She had two children,
Sienna and Paul, who were her pride and
joy. Growing up, Sara loved hanging with
her friends, attending pow-wows and
going on family camping trips to the lake
lot. Sara was a very social person and
had many friends. When Sara started her
family, she enjoyed her movie night with
her children, nieces and nephews. She
would always make it eventful. The kids
considered their Auntie Sara as the “cool”
Auntie. Sara had a special relationship
with her siblings, Godson and friends and
loved spending time with each of them
and their families. She had a kind heart
and was always willing to help out when
needed.
Prayer from her daughter
You alone are my refuge
My place of safety, you’re my beautiful mother
You always will and have been with me since
birth
You have always cared for me
I trust you with all my might
You rescued me from every trap,
and protected me from everything there is.
I cry out to you every night,
and your unfailing love and presence
supports me when bad thoughts fill my mind.
Your comfort gives me peace and happiness
You’re my place of safety when I’m stressed
You are my rock and fortress
You will forever be my strength,
I will always cling to you and
Your strong hand that holds me securely.
You are my amor and protection everywhere
I go
You will cover me and shelter me with your
wings.

Mom, I promise you I will accomplish all
my goals that I tell you about. I’ll take care

JULY 2024 | 17

of our family and I will make you proud no
matter what the circumstances might be.
May your beauty, kindness, giving, love,
thankfulness and being the best mom you
could be to me, and my baby brother be
known throughout the Earth. I will honor
you and rejoice in your unconditional
love. Your love will endure forever in
my heart. Fly high my beautiful angel.
-Sincerely, Your First Born-Sienna Pecore.
She is survived by her children, Sienna
and Paul Jr., and Kaylissa Pecore, the
father of her children, Paul Pecore, Sr.,
her parents Michael (Jackie) Eisch and
Rita (Warren) Reiter, sisters Holly Eisch,
Jenna Eisch, Jade Eisch, Nicole Reiter
and Erin Reiter, brothers Michael Ness,
Kyle (McKenna) Eisch and Bucko (Warren)
(Julie) Reiter, step-brothers Seth (Kasey)
LaReau and Alex LaReau, 10 nieces, 12
nephews, 3 great-nephews, Grandparents Ervin Ambrosius and Harriet Reiter,
numerous Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, Mary
Beth Pecore and friends. She was preceded in death by Grandparents Oscar
Schuyler Sr., Warren Reiter, Telka Novak,
Bob Novak and Yvonne Ambrosius.
Visitation will be held at Ryan Funeral
Home on Friday, May 31, 2024 from 9am
until 11am. The Oneida Hymn Singers will
begin at 10:30am, the service at 11am.
Burial to follow at Oneida Sacred Burial
Grounds. Ryan Funeral Home is assisting
the family.

18 | JULY 2024

MARJORIE A. FUNMAKER

ON THEIR JOURNEY

March 11, 1936 - May 26, 2024
Marjorie Ann
Funmaker, nee
Skenandore (88)
was received by
the loving arms
of her lord on
May 26, 2024.
Born March 11,
1936, to Walter
and Eva (Metoxen) Skenandore in one
of the large Oneida families – a total of
11 siblings - she learned the values of a
Christian upbringing, hard work, and
family dedication. She held true to
those values her entire life. Marge
attended local schools and graduated
from East High School. She met and
married Clyde Ninham and started a
family. Tragically, her husband died in
an incident and Marge later met and
married Wilfred Funmaker. Their family
grew to 8 children, and later she added
3 of her grandchildren to raise in her
loving care and guidance. As a young
adult she moved to Milwaukee during
the Relocation era. In the Milwaukee
native American community, Marge saw
the need for native American youth
– especially young women and worked
with others to address the gaps in
education and services. She was one
of the original founding mothers of the
Indian Community School with Marjorie
Stevens and Darlene Neconish.
Marge returned to Oneida at age 50. She
attended UWGB and served the Oneida
Nation at Income Maintenance, Housing Authority, and the Oneida Personnel
Commission before retiring. If you know
Marge, you know how she loved cooking
amazing meals for her family and friends,
decorating her home, and making creative
floral arrangements. If you were fortunate
to be in her company, before too long you
were embraced in her Joyful laughter. She
enjoyed listening to the old-time greats in
country music, attending church services,
rooting for the Packers, and hitting up the
slots or bingo. Most important to her was
keeping her family close together and she
stayed close with siblings and long held
friendships.
Marge is survived by her children; Clyde
“Joey” Ninham, Luanne Ninham, Glenn
Funmaker, Scott Funmaker, Sandra Fun-

maker, and Stephanie (Duffy) Funmaker,
her grandchildren Lorenzo Funmaker, and
her twins, Raeanne and Luanne Funmaker.
She has 15 additional grandchildren, 37
great grandchildren, and 8 great-great
grandchildren. She is further survived by
two sisters, Ruth Wagner and Eva Doxtator and special nieces Monica Doxtator
and Raeann Skenandore. Her surviving
Funmaker brother-in-law is Maynard Funmaker.
Marge was preceded in death by her first
husband Clyde Ninham, her 2nd husband
Wilfred Funmaker, son Gregory Ninham,
daughter Leitha Funmaker, and daughterin-law Alva Ninham. She is further proceeded by her siblings Martha (Peter) King,
Emily Skenandore, Thelma (Harold) Keiser, Alice (Harold) Ninham, James (Gwen)
Skenandore, Walter Norman Skenandore
(Beverly), Ronald Eli (Carol) Skenandore,
Lawrence (Anna) Skenandore, Ellsworth
Skenandore, Brothers-in-law Lloyd Wagner, and Martin Doxtator. Funmaker inlaws; Perry, Lorenzo, Wayne, Roger, Thurman, Conrad, Daryl, Nathaniel, Carlos,
Betty, Carol, Anita, Darlene.
Friends may call at Ryan Funeral Home
305 N. Tenth Street, De Pere from 4:00PM
– 6:00PM Friday, May 31, 2024. There
will be sharing of memories, encouraging
words, and singing at 6:00PM followed
by a service led by Pastor Joel Cornelius. Burial will take place Saturday June
1st beginning at 10:00AM at the Oneida
Assembly of God Cemetery. The family
would like to thank staff at the Anna John
Nursing Home for their care and devotion.
You did an outstanding job in making her
comfortable and at peace in her final days.

NATASHA L. HAMILTON
September 17, 1995 - May 19, 2024

Natasha Lyn Hamilton, 28, gained
her angel wings
May 19, 2024, with
family by her side,
due to complications from a recent surgery. Natasha was born
September 17, 1995, in Appleton, Wi to
Melanie Esser (Ramey) & Willie Lee Hamilton III. Natasha graduated from Syble
Hopp in 2017. She then attended Curative
Connection before having one on one

KALIHWISAKS

care with her caretaker and best friend,
Laura Nys.
To Natasha everyday was her birthday or
party! She loved Halloween and found every opportunity to dress up and shop for
dressing up. She brought life and joy to
any event and made sure you knew she
was there. "HI, Tasha's here!", you would
hear her say as she entered a room with
a giant smile. Natasha idolized Disney
and was thrilled to meet all the Disney
princesses and characters during her trip
to Disney earlier this year.
Natasha left a lasting impression on everyone who had the honor of meeting her.
Natasha will be deeply missed by her
parents Melanie(Maurice) and Willie, her
siblings, Alexandria Ramey, Iyana Ramey,
Machai Ramey, Samantha(Eric) Boucher, Tyler(Tara) Clark, Willie Devin Metoxen-Hamilton IV, Kylea Krahler, Makaiah
Hansen, Ryan Metoxen-Hamilton, Keyondre Lemerande, David Hamilton, Kiara
Lemerande, Sophia Metoxen-Hamilton,
her extra family Laura(GaryLee) Nys, Tracy(Travis) Rhode, Trevor(Aubree) Nys, and
Jackie Nys, grandparents, aunts, uncles,
6 nieces, 1 nephew, cousins and anyone
who knew her.
Family and friends may call to Ryan Funeral Home, 305 N. Tenth St., De Pere,
WI 54115, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 25th, 2024. A Memorial Service
will begin at 3:00 p.m. with Rev. James
Biegler officiating. Ryan Funeral Home,
De Pere, is assisting the family.
The family would like to extend a special
thank you to the staff at Mayo Clinic-St.
Mary’s and St. Mary’s Green Bay, who
tended to Natasha. In lieu of flowers, a
memorial will be established in her name.

DARRELL M. JOHN

December 20, 1935 - June 9, 2024
Darrell Michael
John, 88, passed
away peacefully at
home holding the
hands of the two
women he loved
most in the world,
his daughter Lynn,
and his love Rose.
Darrell was born in Oneida on December
20, 1935, to the late Noron and Anna
(Christjohn) John. He was destined to
speak his mind. Darrell grew up in Oneida,

ONEIDA-NSN.GOV

ON THEIR JOURNEY

where he went to Seymour High School.
After High School, Darrell joined the United
States Army, and proudly served in the
Korean War. After the Army, Darrell had a
long career with and retired from General
Motors.
Darrell had a huge heart from supporting
charities, loving animals, to supporting and
providing for his family. Darrell was a proud
dad to four children (who were born from
his marriage to the late Marlene Skenandore), eight grandchildren and eight great
grandchildren. He always showed up with
a smile on his face.
Darrell loved life; he did what he wanted,
when he wanted, and how he wanted. Always with his heart in his sleeve. Darrell
had many passions, which included cars
(driving fast), music (classic country to rock
n’ roll), golf (played 18 holes until he was 86
years old), billiards (no doubt a shark), bike
riding (spotted all over Milwaukee), bowling, exercising (a forever gym member),
watching sports (Go Brewers, Bucks, and
Packers), former Vestry member at church,
and of course cracking jokes.
For almost 30 years, Darrell has been with
his great love Rose Benson. Rose was
truly the Minnie to Darrell’s Mickey. Her
presence brought him peace, comfort, and
happiness until his last moments.
He was preceded in death by his parents
Noron and Anna John, five siblings: Carlton “Beaver” John, Darwin John, Brenda
Cornelius, Richard “Dickie” John, Emily
Palone, stepdaughter Little Diane Hill, and
granddaughter Nikki Corbeil.
Darrell is survived by two siblings, Luanne
(the late Mark) Simos, and Rosemary John
(the late Leon Brisk). Four children, Lynn
(Mark) Corbeil, Kirk (Yvonne) John, Michael
(Zandra) John, and Bradly John. He is further survived by his many grandchildren:
Krystal John, Dakota John, Michael John Jr.,
Matthew John, Tehya John, Hawkins John,
Takoda John, Darrell Hill, and Daraleigh.
Special great grandchildren, Landry and
Nicolas John, as well as many other friends,
family, and loved ones.
Family and friends may pay respects to
Darrell at Holy Apostles Church, 2937
Freedom Rd., Oneida, WI., from 9:00AM
– 10:45AM on Thursday, June 13, 2024.
Oneida Hymn Singers will sing at 10:30AM.
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated
at 11:00AM with Fr. James Biegler officiat-

ing. Full military honors will follow at the
parish cemetery. Ryan Funeral Home is
assisting the family.
The family would like to extend a heartful
thank you to Darrell’s hospice and care
team, the staff at Anna John Nursing Home
and Dr. Flood.

MICHAEL J. KING
August 26, 1963 - June 10, 2024

Michael James
King, age 60,
passed away on
Monday June 10,
2024, at his home
in Keshena. Michael was born on
August 26, 1963, in
Antigo to the late
James and Ruth (Frechette) King. He
worked many years as a slot technician at
the Oneida and Menominee Casino. On
February 10, 1996, Michael was united in
marriage to Lori Schlichting. The couple
spent a wonderful loving 23 years together before Lori’s passing in 2019. He was
talented at playing the guitar and made
music with his love of his life Lori. Michael
was an active lifelong member of the St.
Michael Catholic Church in Keshena. He
volunteered his time at the church as an
altar server, mowing the lawn and anything
else that needed to be done at the church.
Michael had an eye for photography and
would snap a picture when he could. He
had skill when it came to technology and
would share all the lingo. Michael was a
kind, generous person but was never too
outspoken. He will be dearly missed by
everyone that knew him.
Michael is survived by his siblings, Kathy
(Lyle) Tucker and Mark King; siblings-inlaw, Julie Schlichting, Kevin (Margaret)
Schlichting and Adrian (Verdene) Schlichting; nieces and nephews, Rayna Tucker, Ruthie Tucker, Riley Tucker, Richard
Doss, Mindy Miller, Molly Schlichting, Kevin
Schlichting, Jr., Malissa Schlichting, Julie
Schlichting, Courtney Schlichting, Leah
Schlichting, Sequoia Schlichting, Deion
Boivin, Heaven Ault and Alexander Lamberies. He is further survived by other
relatives and friends.
Michael is preceded in death by his wife,
Lori; furry baby, Scrappy; parents, James
and Ruth; cousin, Reynold Frechette, Sr.;
and parents-in-law, Delbert and Rosetta

JULY 2024 | 19

Schlichting.
A funeral service for Michael will be held
at 11:00 am on Saturday June 15, 2024, at
Swedberg Funeral Home with Fr. Hanz
Chrisitan officiating. Visitation will be held
on Friday June 14, 2024, at the funeral
home from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm then
again on Saturday from 10:00 am until
the time of service. Burial will be held at
St. Michaels Catholic Cemetery following
the service.

CHRISTINA E . SKENANDORE
June 14, 1964 - June 3, 2024

Christina Easter
Skenandore, 59,
passed away late
Monday evening,
June 3, 2024. The
daughter of Vernon and Violet
(Williams) Stevens
was born June 14,

1964.
Christina, also known as Christine Ester
(because “somebody stole the A’s!”), was
an incredibly giving person. She was a
mom to everyone, and everyone was family. She enjoyed going to the casino and
playing bingo, but more than anything she
loved being a full-time grandma.
She is survived by her sons, Koy (Samantha) and Francis (Melissa); grandchildren
Robert, Twyla, Everleigh and Alora; siblings Matilda (Bob) Godfrey, Lila (Randy)
Denny, Viola Skenandore and Vernon
(Stacy) Skenandore. Christina is further
survived by her many nieces, nephews
and other extended family members.
Preceding her in death were her parents,
Vernon and Violet; daughter, Magan Smith;
sister Robin Doyen and other members of
her extended family.
Family and friends may visit at Ryan Funeral Home on Friday, June 7, 2024 at 305 N.
Tenth Street, De Pere, from 2:00 to 5:00
p.m. A short prayer will take place at 2:00
to begin visitation, followed by the Oneida
Hymn Singers from 2:30 to 3:00.

20 | JULY 2024

ON THEIR JOURNEY

ERNEST STEVENS SR
February 17, 1932 – June 1, 2024

Ernest Stevens, Sr.,
At ·nis,
a
d e d i c a t e d
advocate for
sovereignty, selfdetermination,
self-governance,
and Native rights,
passed away on
Saturday, June 1, 2024, at the Anna John
Resident Centered Care Community
facility in Oneida, Wisconsin. Born
February 17, 1932, Ernie Stevens, Sr. was
a prominent figure in the Indian political
activism during the 1960s and 1970s.
A U.S. Marine Corps combat veteran
of the Korean War, serving 4 years and
earned the rank of Staff Sergeant at 19
years of age. Stevens was recognized
for his service and dedication, receiving
accolades such as the Korean Unit citation
and the Korean Service medal with three
battle stars. During his time in Korea, he
was part of the well-known conflict, the
Frozen Chosen. The Marines who fought
there are known as “the chosen few”
where nearly 2,500 of the US forces died,
some froze to death.
Stevens illustrious and impactful career
includes serving in numerous leadership
positions, including as Executive Director
of the Los Angeles Indian Center, the
Institute for Community Anti-Poverty
Corporation, the Indian Action Project in
Arizona, the Los Angeles Human Rights
Commission, and the Inter-Tribal Council
of California.
He was recruited to Washington DC by
Commissioner Louis Bruce of the Bureau
of Indian Affairs, where he held several
high-level positions that helped facilitate
a systematic change throughout Indian
Country. After leaving the Bureau, he
was a lobbyist and later the Executive
Director of the American Indian Policy
Review Commission Study that would
change Indian Country forever. He was
later confirmed as the first Staff Director
of the Senate Select Committee on Indian
Affairs. While serving in DC, Ernie was
also elected by the national leadership
as the First Vice-President to the National
Congress of American Indians (NCAI).
Whether through his leadership roles in
various organizations or his involvement

in policymaking at the national level, Ernie
Stevens, Sr. was a driving force for change
and progress in Indian Country.
Coming from humble beginnings,
Stevens, Sr. began a profound rise to
national recognition at a time of great
change in Indian Country. He remained a
charismatic figure to many tribes, Indian
leaders, and Indian people, particularly
in Arizona, where his early professional
years left a significant imprint. He held a
bachelor’s degree in business economics
from Mount Scenario College and a
Community Fellows Program certification
from the Massachusetts Institute of
Technology (MIT). Upon his return to the
Oneida Community, he served in several
capacities, such as Councilman on the
Oneida Business Committee and Senior
Manager of the Development Division,
local and national consultant, and small
business owner. He always pushed for
and supported for tribal enterprise and
individual business owners. Some of
his most important projects were the
tobacco enterprise, land acquisition, home
ownership, to name a few. If you asked
him personally, he would credit the people
he worked with on these projects.
He was a visionary leader, a devoted
advocate, and a beloved community
member. Ernie Stevens, Sr.'s indelible
mark on Indian Country, will forever be
remembered and cherished by all whose
lives he touched. He left a lasting imprint
on those he encountered.
Ernie Sr. leaves a legacy with his surviving
children, Kelly (Shelly) Stevens of Oneida;
Ernie (Cheryl) Stevens, Jr. of Oneida; Mike
(Tommi) Stevens of New Town, ND; Toni
(Doug) House of Oneida; David Stevens of
Appleton; Pamela Stevens of Milwaukee;
Jennifer Stevens of Milwaukee. He is
preceded in death by the love of his life,
his wife Patricia, his mother Maria Hinton
a community icon, and son Coleman.
He is also survived by 24 grandchildren:
Paul, Shakira, Anastasia, Natasha, Kelly
Jr., Coleman, Vernon, Brandon, Ernest
III, Margaret, Maria, Lois, Michael Paul,
Thomas, William, Bernadine, Victor, Cole,
Jasmine, Jessica, Conrad Jr., Justin,
Alayna, and David. He is also survived by
36 great grandchildren.
A big thank you to the Anna John Resident
Centered Care Community facility staff
for taking so good care of Ernie during

KALIHWISAKS

his time there. They have become an
extension of Ernie’s giant family. We thank
them from the bottom of our hearts for
their kind, caring love for Ernie.
Thank you to the Oneida community for
your support and love for Ernie Stevens,
Sr. The family could not do this without
you. His dream for the Oneida Community
was always one of economic diversity,
tribal tradition, a strong land base, and
education for all. We are living his dream
and it is up to each of us to carry it forward
for the next seven generations.

Scan for full
Ernest Stevens
Sr obituary

I'm Free

by Shannon Lee Moseley

Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free.
I’m following paths God made for me.
I took his hand I heard him call;
Then turned, and bid farewell to all.
I could not stay another day
To laugh, to love, to sing, to play.
Tasks left undone must stay that way;
I found my peace.
If my parting left a void,
Then fill it with remembered joys.
A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss;
Oh yes, these things I too will miss.
Be not burdened with sorrow,
look for the sunshine of tomorrow.
My life’s been full, I’ve savored much;
Good friends, good times A loved one’s
touch.
Perhaps my time seemed all too brief;
Don’t lengthen it now with grief.
Lift up your heart and peace to thee,
God wants me now - He set me free.

LOCAL

ONEIDA-NSN.GOV

JULY 2024 | 21

2024 General Welfare
Assistance Payments

2024 SPECIAL ELECTION
Saturday, July 20, 2024
7am-7pm

Turtle School

Sample Ballot

Click or scan QR Code

N7125 Seminary Rd.
Oneida, WI 54155

Sept. 6th, 2024 4:30 pm CST
Applications can be submitted online, in-person, or by mail.

5233 West Morgan Ave.
Milwaukee, WI 53220

Paper applications were mailed in late June 2024
If you do not receive yours by the end July, please contact
the Trust Enrollment Department.

A mailer will be sent out as well

ONEIDA
VOTE

♦
♦

Oneida Nation Assistance Fund
($1500.00/ 18+) ($2000.00/ 62+)
Elder Assistance Program (703.54/ 65+)
Food Assistance Program ($500.00)

Application deadline

And SEOTS

EVERY

♦

Oneida Trust Enrollment Department

COUNTS

PO Box 365, Oneida WI 54155-0365
(920) 869-6200 ♦ 800-571-9902
No Mailbox. In person or courier delivery only (Fed Ex, UPS)
210 Elm St, Oneida WI 54155

22 | JULY 2024

LEGAL NOTICES

Setting Time and Notice to Interested Parties
The following estates are being prepared for probate by
the Oneida Nation, Land Commission Hearing Body.
To attend a scheduled hearing virtually contact
Cindy Lecker, Land, Title & Trust Specialist,
Oneida Nation, Land Management, •
PO Box 365, • Oneida, WI 54155, • 920-869-6610 •
CLecker@oneidanation.org

KALIHWISAKS

In the Matter of the Estate of Louis Tony Delgado,
Case No. 2024 LCP 0003
1. An application for probate was filed.
2. The decedent with a date of birth of 08/01/1949 and date of
death 10/15/2019, was an Oneida Nation member, domiciled
off of the Oneida Reservation at 361 Herrick Rd., Riverside, IL
60546.
3. The deadline to submit claims was 08/16/2024
5. All interested persons are hereby noticed.

In the Matter of the Estate of Rita May Summers,
Case No. 2023 LCP 0004
1. An application for probate was filed.
2. The decedent with a date of birth of 11/26/1929 and
date of death 08/06/2023, was an Oneida Nation
member, domiciled on the Oneida Reservation at 2892
Commissioner St, Oneida, WI 54155.
3. The deadline to submit claims was 07/14/2024
4. All interested persons are hereby noticed.

In the Matter of the Estate of Arlene Virgina Summers,
Case No. 2024 LCP 0001
1. An application for probate was filed.
2. The decedent with a date of birth of 06/06/1934 and
date of death 12/13/2023, was an Oneida Nation
member, domiciled on the Oneida Reservation at 3772 N
Countyline Rd, Oneida, WI 54155.
3. The deadline to submit claims was 07/14/2024
4. All interested persons are hereby noticed.
In the Matter of the Estate of Shirley Mae Hill,
Case No. 2024 LCP 0002
1. An application for probate was filed.
2. The decedent with a date of birth of 05/13/1934 and
date of death 10/22/2023, was an Oneida Nation
member, domiciled on the Oneida Reservation at 2928
Commissioner St, Oneida, WI 54155.
3. The deadline to submit claims was 07/14/2024
4. All interested persons are hereby noticed.

NOTICE OF RESCHEDULED
PUBLIC MEETING

TO BE HELD July 11, 2024, 5-6pm
Comprehensive Housing Division Front Conference Room
2913 Commissioner Street, Oneida, WI 54155
In accordance with the Administrative Rulemaking Law, the
Comprehensive Ho using Division and the Oneida Land
Commission are hosting this Public Meeting to gather feedback from the
community regarding proposed amendments to the following rule:

Real Property Law Rule No. 2 - CHD Residential Sales
♦ Change Real Property Law Rule No. 2 to Rule No. 1
♦ Replacing the selection process from a highest
qualified offer process to a lottery draw process such that homes
will continue to be listed for the appraised value, but buyers
will no longer be able to bid over appraised value to gain a
competitive advantage; and
♦ Determining what happens to residential sales inventory in the
event there are no offers received for a given listing.
To obtain copies of the Public Meeting documents for this proposal, please visit
oneida-nsn.gov/Register/PublicMeetings.

PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD OPEN UNTIL JULY 19, 2024
During the Public Comment Period, all interested persons may submit written
comments and/or a transcript of any testimony/spoken comments made during
the Public Meeting. These may be submitted to The Comprehensive Housing
Division by U.S. mail, interoffice mail, e-mail or fax.
Comprehensive Housing Division
2913 Commissioner Street, Oneida, WI 54155
mhill@oneidanation.org Phone: 920-869-2227 Fax: 920-869-2836

ONEIDA-NSN.GOV

LEGAL NOTICES

ONEIDA NATION PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE
FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2024, 12:15 pm
Norbert Hill Center
Business Committee Conference Room
N7210 Seminary Rd., Oneida, WI

JULY 2024 | 23

Find Public Meeting
Materials at

Oneida-nsn.gov/government/
register/public meetings
Send Public Comments to
LOC@oneidanation.org
Ask Questions here

LOC@oneidanation.org
920-869-4417

VEHICLE DRIVER CERTIFICATION AND FLEET MANAGEMENT LAW AMENDMENTS
The purpose of the purpose of the Vehicle Driver Certification and Fleet Management law is to establish standards that certify
employees, elected and appointed officials, and volunteers to drive a fleet vehicle or personal vehicle on official business and
regulate the use of all vehicles owned and leased by the Nation

The Vehicle Driver Certification and Fleet Management law amendments will:
♦ Remove the responsibility of the Fleet Management Department to purchase fleet vehicles from section 210.6-1 of the Law.
Individuals may attend the public meeting for the proposed Vehicle Driver Certification and Fleet Management law amendments
in person at the Norbert Hill Center, or virtually through Microsoft Teams. If you wish to attend the public meeting through
Microsoft Teams please contact LOC@oneidanation.org.

PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD CLOSES MONDAY, JULY 22, 2024
During the public comment period, anyone may submit written
comments, questions or input. Comments may be submitted to
the Oneida Nation Secretary’s Office or the Legislative Reference
Office in person, by U.S. mail, interoffice mail, or e-mail.

Scan for more information
on the proposed Vehicle
Driver Certification and
Fleet Management law
amendments

Church of the Holy Apostles

These Rules and Regulations were approved July 11, 2018 and remain in effect today.
Floral Displays
♦ NO sprinkling of cremation
ashes will be allowed
♦ Worn out, faded, otherwise
dilapidated items will be
removed without notice
♦ Cemetery will
be closed from
dusk to dawn no
personal vehicles
allowed during
this time

ITEMS PROHIBITED

♦ ONLY metal or plastic
containers at ground level,
next to the monument shall
be used for fresh cut or
artificial flowers
♦ Live/fresh cut flowers to be
removed after two (2) weeks
♦ One (1) shepherd’s hook per
grave site for hanging basket

♦ Planting of any trees, shrubs,
perennials
♦ Snowmobiles, ATVs, cross
country, cycles, dirt bikes
♦ Alcoholic beverages or any
other glass containers or glass
items
♦ Enclosures of any kind around
grave sites (e.g. fences)
♦
Decorative stones, yard
Monuments/Headtones
decorations (signs, solar lights,
♦ Must be made of marble,
planters, toys, pinwheels,
granite, fiberglass, or bronze.
balloons and the like) if deemed
Replace wooden markers
dangerous for lawn equipment
before they deteriorate.
♦ Any unusual markers,
decorations must be preapproved

2937 Freedom Rd.,Oneida WI 54155 • 920.869.2565 • holyapostles15@gmail.com

24 | JULY 2024

LOCAL

KALIHWISAKS

RESOURCES

ONEIDA-NSN.GOV

YON^HALI•YO

A GOOD VINE

ONEIDA DOMESTIC VIOLENCE PROGRAM

SURVIVOR ADVOCACY:
EMOTIONAL SUPPORT
CULTURALLY BASED
ACTIVITIES
HEALING CIRCLE/WOMENS
GROUP
SAFETY PLANNING
REFERRALS

COMMUNITY/YOUTH
ADVOCACY:

GIRLS/BOYS GROUP
DRUG & ALCOHOL
PREVENTION
CULTURE US
CONTACT
ARTS & CRAFTS
920-490-3700
TEEN DATING

CONTACT US: 490-3700

Maternal Child
Health Services
A FREE program that assists pregnant families
with obtaining services in the following areas

♦ Prenatal/Baby Care Items
♦ PNCC Program Referrals
♦ Various Education
♦ Transportation
♦ Health Insurance
And More...
Contact Maternal Child
Health Worker
Makenit Gutierrez

920.655.2146
Available
Monday - Friday
8am - 3pm

JULY 2024 | 25

LOCAL

26 | JULY 2024

370,000.00

KALIHWISAKS

JUST MOVE IT ONEIDA

W923 Van Court, Oneida WI 54155

Contact: Holly 920.646.2488 to set up an appointment for viewing.

3 Bedroom
2 Full Bath
2.35 Acre Lot
3 Stall Attached Garage
Year Built: 2002
Land Status: Oneida Tribal Lease
County: Outagamie
School District: Oneida and Seymour
Tax District: Town of Oneida
Parcel # 170140708
Purchasers are subject to residential Lease with the Oneida Nation Comprehensive
Housing Division, the purchaser must be enrolled with the Oneida Nation. The Oneida
Nation Comprehensive Housing Division is not responsible for the content of this
advertisement. All information provided in this advertisement is provided solely by
the Home Owner.

Upcoming Events
Universal Consulting Solutions believes in a holistic approach to professional
and personal development. Our methodology includes a strong focus on
enhancing self-awareness through personalized assessments and
understanding the importance of wellness integration. The combination fosters
leadership, organizational effectiveness, and overall well-being. Our services
are designed to promote growth, innovation, and a balanced life.

Business Consulting Services

Emotional Intelligence Development

Strategic Planning

Enhance self-awareness & social regulation

Leadership Development
Organizational Development

Improve interpersonal skills & empathy
Strengthen leadership & team dynamics
Foster resilience & stress management

Wellness Integration

Facilitation & Training

Mind, body, spirit
practices
EMPOWER360
Professional Development

LEADERSHIP

DEVELOPMENT
PROGRAM
Health & well-being
coaching

UNLOCK YOUR LEADERSHIP POTENTIONAL

WHAT YOU’LL GAIN:

Transformational Coaching

MeditationSELF-AWARENESS
instruction
WITH DISC PROFILING

MOTIVATIONAL INSIGHTS THROUGH 12 DRIVING FORCES
EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE FOR EFFECTIVE LEADERSHIP
MASTERY OF KEY LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES
BASIC UNDERSTANDING OF NATION BUILDING PRINCIPLES (BONUS INFO)

Personal purpose statement development
CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION UPON COMPLETION

PROGRAM OFFERED AT COMMUNITY EDUCATION CENTER (CEC)
DURATION: 16 WEEKS
FREQUENCY: ONCE A WEEK (2.5 HOUR SESSIONS)
SUITABLE FOR: LEADERS, SUPERVISORS, ASPIRING LEADERS, PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
GROUP SIZE: LIMITED TO 20 PARTICIPANTS
COST: $1,600 PER PARTICIPANT (INCLUDES ASESSMENTS AND MATERIALS)

MUSEUM
PROGRAM DATE OPTIONS:

MARCH-JUNE (WEDNESDAYS 1:30PM - 4:00PM)

(920) 606-4456

MARCH-JUNE (FRIDAYS 9:00AM - 11:30AM)

www.uconsolutions.com

tracey@uconsolutions.com

AUGUST-NOVEMBER (WEDNESDAYS 1:30PM -4:00PM) - AVAILABLE
AUGUST-NOVEMBER (FRIDAYS 9:00AM - 11:30AM) - AVAILABLE
FOR INQUIRIES CONTACT: TRACEY @
TRACEY@UCONSOLUTIONS.COM
(920)606-4456

STRONG
ONEIDA LAKE

W172 CROOK RD. DE PERE, WI 54115

JULY 17TH | 4-6 p.m.
• Kayaking with Oneida Adventures
Guarantee a Spot- Contact Mark Steinbach!
(920) 490-3846 or msteinba@oneidanation.org
• Stem Craft brought to you by
UWGB Camps & Einstein Project.
• Receive a punch on your 2024 JMIO Punch Card

• Buffalo Snack Sticks from the
Oneida Nation Farm.
(while supplies last)

For more information or questions

contact Hanna:

920-490-3927
hleisgan@oneidanation.org
JustMoveIt Oneida

05/29/24

LOCAL

ONEIDA-NSN.GOV

Foraging with
Randy Cornelius

JULY 2024 | 27

06/03/2024

Come join us as we walk on
the Norbert Hill Center trails;
discovering what grows and
is edible to eat in nature.

Stroke Prevention Research Study
ARE YOU NATIVE AMERICAN?
ARE YOU BETWEEN THE AGES OF 35 AND 55?
DO YOU WANT TO MAKE AN IMPACT IN YOUR COMMUNITY?

I INVITE YOU TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS STUDY:
ROOT CAUSES OF STROKE RISK DISPARITY IN
WISCONSIN NATIVE AMERICANS

JULY 23, 2024
5:30-7:30 PM

Norbert Hill Center
North parking Lot

Registration Required.
Limited to 20 participants.

Contact Amanda Riesenberg,
Stroke Prevention Wellness Coach to register
Call 920-490-3984 or Email ariesenb@oneidanation.org

COME JOIN US!!

Walk with a Doc

This study is a partnership between the Oneida
Nation and the UW Madison Stroke Team to
decrease Stroke and Stroke Risk Factors in the
Native American Population.
No cost to participant.
All activities are done on the Oneida Reservation!
Take care of your health
and your family for the next seven generations
CONTACT AMANDA AT 920-490-3984 OR
ARIESENB@ONEIDANATION.ORG FOR MORE
INFORMATION
SUPPORT WAS PROVIDED BY THE UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN - MADISON OFFICE OF
THE VICE CHANCELLOR FOR RESEARCH AND GRADUATE EDUCATION

What's in your

Water?

Time: 12:10-12:45 pm
Location: Oneida Health Center Front Entrance
Come join us on the 1st Wednesday of each month as we walk,
talk, and learn about an important wellness topic!
No registration required.
Giveaways each month (while supplies last).

Monthly Topics

May 1

June 5

Mental Health

All Things Summer
and Child Safety

Dr. Christine Garstka
Psychologist
Oneida Behavioral Health

Dr. Karen Lane
General Pediatrics
Oneida Medical Director

July 3

August 7

Pain of Opioids:
Rising Above

Stress Management

Rachel Seegers
Scott Lalonde
Counselors
Oneida Behavioral Health

Katie Farley
Nurse Practitioner
Oneida Behavioral Health

September 4

October 2
Nutrition

Diabetic Health

Brianna Grosso
Maria Boeck
Registered Dietitian
Oneida WIC/Nutrition

Lauren Cornette
Nurse Practitioner
Oneida Diabetes Program

06/03/2024

For more information or questions contact
Amanda Riesenberg, Stroke Prevention Wellness Coach

525 Airport Rd. Oneida, WI

920-490-3984

ariesenb@oneidanation.org

Oneida Utilities Department
Provides fresh water to
over 750 homes on the
reservation
View the 2024
water report

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
Mia Charnon
Kalihwisaks/Creative Services
Michelle Danforth-Anderson
Marketing & Tourism Director
Richard Summers III
Graphic Designer

For All Submissions
kalihwisaks@oneidanation.org
The views and/or claims of interviewees
or advertisers do not necessarily represent
the thoughts and sentiments of the Oneida
Nation or the Kalihwisaks.
Contributors: Eric Doxtator • Trista Cornelius-Henricks
Leah Stroobants • Leon Webster • Peggy Doxtater
Nevada Skenandore • Mel Webster • Leah Kuchta • Isaiah Powless

www.oneida-nsn.gov/resources/kalihwisaks/

@kalihwisaks

---

Source: Frix Law Library, https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/tribal%3Aoneida_nation%3Aee961c1e5c65fca4. Public record. Not legal advice.
