Tatakatkaruku' Cahiks (2015)

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2015 Annual Report

Tatakatkaruku' Cahiks

“I am notifying the people”

A Report to the People

Chaticks si Chaticks

Pawnee Nation of Oklahoma

Page 2

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

In Remembrance…

Sarah J. Howell

07/15/1940-01/16/2015

Regina M. Wilson

01/07/1927-04/28/2015

Rowena K. Salmon

04/12/1926-01/26/2015

Benjamin Butler

10/12/1941-05/05/2015

Rebecca Rice Sinkar

08/14/1935-01/27/2015

Harold Davis

09/11/1922-06/02/2015

Floyd Arthur Williams

06/28/1951-01/29/2015

Sophina Nell Williams

09/22/1955-06/16/2015

Anthony Duane Pratt-Miller

08/10/1983-02/06/2015

Mounir Boucid

10/12/1988-06/18/2015

Phillip Clifton Minthorn

12/06/1958-02/14/2015

Sallianne Lorentz-Delaware

06/22/1937-06/28/2015

Richard Duvall Fields

06/11/1932-02/16/2015

Cornelia Delphine Haga

05/05/1925-07/21/2015

Norma H. Roberts

09/22/1937-02/27/2015

Jesica Phipps

08/01/1974-08/29/2015

Nathaniel Horsechief

06/26/1939-03/04/2015

Robert Theodore Lefthand

12/08/1937-09/06/2015

Hazel Annette (Pratt) Moore

11/29/1955-03/13/2015

Angela Dawn Brown

12/16/1982-09/12/2015

Juanita Lee DeLodge

06/27/1952-03/14/2015

Aden J. Williams

03/16/2004-09/12/2015

Delos Elton Prairie Chief Jr.

02/13/1955-03/20/2015

Dewey Alton Butler

09/22/1964-09/18/2015

Floyd Lee Moses

07/27/1924-03/22/2015

Robert Michael Howell

11/12/1961-12/11/2015

Pam K. Chanate

07/11/1953-03/25/2015

Elizabeth R. Blackowl

10/11/1935-12/22/2015

Victoria Lamarr Collins Conklin

01/26/1933-04/08/2015

Donald Emory White

12/26/1931-12/30/2015

Batiste Lee Norman

06/15/1969-04/12/2015

Page 3

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

2015

Annual Report of the

Pawnee Nation Government

to the Pawnee Nation

The Offices and Programs of the Pawnee Nation have had many accomplishments

this year and continue to set and meet new goals as the administrative capacity

continues to increase, which will allow the Pawnee Nation to grow economically

towards sustainability.

Given all of the accomplishments of this year, the employees of the Pawnee

Nation, Pawnee Tribal Development Corporation, and the

Pawnee Nation

Housing Authority are to be commended for their continued efforts to advance the

lives and culture of the Pawnee Nation.

Though we are proud of all the employees associated with the Pawnee Nation, all

our efforts would not have happened without the continued support from the tribal

members.

Hiri we turrahe (Thank you!)

Page 4

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Table of Contents

In Remembrance

Ti Harasa Domestic Violence Program

Title page for Annual Report

Food Distribution and Elderly Meals Program

Message from the President

Pawnee Nation Business Council

Division of Natural Resources and Safety &

Department of Environmental Conservation

and Safety

Pawnee Nation Nasharo Council

Department of Transportation and Safety

Pawnee Indian Veterans & Pawnee War

Mothers

Department of Fire and Rescue & Department

of Emergency Management

Oklahoma Military Hall of Fame Induction

Division of Education

Executive Office

List of Committees, Commissions, and

Boards & Event Calendar

Youth Services and Pawnee Nation Learning

Center

Employment Training

Burial Policy

Finance Division

Higher Education Scholarship Program

and Tribal Employment Rights/Equal

Employment Opportunity Office

Financial Overview

Division of Cultural Resources

Human Resources Department

Tribal Gaming Commission

Planning and Development Division

Tribal Tax Department

Indian Community Development and

Block Grant

Pawnee Tribal Development Corporation

Administrative Affairs Division & Information

Technology Department

Closing Remarks

Pictures from Events

Procurement & Communications Department

Pawnee Nation Merchandise

Enrollment Department

Sponsors

Pawnee Tribal Court

Annual Report Dedication

Pawnee Nation Historic District

Pawnee Nation Law Enforcement

Health and Community Service Division &

Community Health Representative/Health Ed

ucation Programs

Diabetes Program

Indian Child Welfare, Substance Abuse

Program

Pawnee Pride Program

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Page 5

Message from President Pratt

Nowah! I would like to take this opportunity to thank you, the Pawnee people

for all of the success we are experiencing as a Nation. I also would like to thank

the past administration, who started off the year in office, for their dedication to

the Pawnee Nation. May the blessings from Atius continue for our people.

The Pawnee Nation, the President’s Office and Business Council have made

great strides moving our Nation forward. We have had a very busy year on all

fronts. This past summer, our economic development branch of TDC has

purchased a screen printing shop and in the fall purchased the ‘Snak-N-Pak’ and

‘BJ’s’ convenience stores. The Tribal Development Corporation is in the

process of changing the names and look of both stores within the next year.

Now, if anyone is buying gasoline in the Pawnee area they are filling up our

bank accounts! The expansion of the StoneWolf Casino is also underway. We

look to report more of the accomplishments and goals of our Tribal

Development Corporation in providing more economic ventures for the Pawnee

Nation.

In November of this past year, the Pawnee Nation Elder Center was completed on our campus. We have also

begun construction on the new Pawnee Nation Resource Complex and soon will begin to expand our Wellness

Center to include a swimming pool. We commend our ICDBG program for management of these projects.

Our administrative accomplishments have been very good for the Pawnee Nation as well. For the first time

ever, we now offer health insurance to our employees. We are moving right along to become an employer of

choice. In addition to expanding employee benefits we have also established an Attorney General’s Office and

a new Cultural Resources Division. Last year we successfully negotiated three years of Indirect Cost Rate

Proposals and have been working vigilantly on trust and water rights issues.

We honor and remember those who have passed on this past year, especially Elizabeth Blackowl, our former

Pawnee Nation President. She always thought of her people and would not hesitate to ask questions to get answers. Her people were never far from her mind as she tried the best she could to advocate for their rights and

voice their concerns. The legacy she has left will not be forgotten, she is in the Lords presence and she will be

missed by all.

We consider it an honor to work for the benefit of our people and will continue with the forward momentum to

bring even more good things to our people in the future. I hope that you take the time to read all the reports

from the programs and entities provided in this annual report. Thank you to all the employees who provide

programs and services to our people. Your hard work is appreciated.

W. Bruce Pratt

PAWNEE BUSINESS COUNCIL

The Supreme governing body of the Pawnee Nation is the Pawnee Business Council which consists of eight

(8) members. The Pawnee Business Council exercises all the inherent, statutory, and treaty powers of the

Pawnee Nation by the enactment of legislation, the transaction of business, and by otherwise speaking or

acting on all matters which the Pawnee Nation is empowered to act. All members of the Pawnee Business

Council are elected to a four-year term of office and serve until their successors are installed in office.

Page 6

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

PAWNEE BUSINESS COUNCIL

W. Bruce Pratt

President

Phammie N. Littlesun

Secretary

Sammye Adson

Council Seat 1

Adrian Spottedhorsechief

Council Seat 3

Vacant

Vice-President

M. Angela Thompson

Treasurer

Dawna Hare

Council Seat 2

Liana Chapman Teter

Council Seat 4

Page 7

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

NASHARO COUNCIL

(CHIEF’S COUNCIL)

Warren Pratt Jr.

Ralph Haymond

Head Nasharo Chief/Skidi Chief

2nd Nasharo Chief/ Kitkehahki Chief

Lester SunEagle

Nasharo Secretary/Pitahawirata Chief

Patrick Leadingfox

Skidi Chief

Morgan Little Sun

Francis Morris

Kitkehahki Chief

Pitahawirata Chief

Jimmy Horn

Matthew Reed

Chaui Chief

The Nasharo Council consists of eight (8) tribal members. Each Band selects (2) representatives to serve on

the Nasharo Council. The Nasharo Council has the right to review all acts of the Pawnee Business Council

regarding the Pawnee Nation membership and Pawnee Nation claims or rights growing out of Treaties between the Pawnee Nation and the Unites States.

The bands elect their respective representatives under the rules and regulations prescribed by the Chief’s of

each Band. Representatives selected serve until the next regular selection of members of the Nasharo Council

are chosen.

Page 8

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Pawnee Indian Veterans Organization

The Pawnee Indian Veterans Organization has honored service men and women, since

1946 with the Pawnee Indian Veterans Homecoming and will continue the tradition

though many dances designed to honor Native American culture and veterans from all

military branches.

Officers:

William Howell, President

Jean K. Grant, Vice President

Pius SpottedHorsechief, Secretary

Dr. Gene Evans, Treasurer

Walter Lorentz, Flag Man

Lance LeadingFox, Drum Keeper

2015-2016

Pawnee Indian Veterans Princess

Nadia Kent

Pawnee Indian War Mothers Organization

The Pawnee War Mothers have always been an active Secretary/Chaplain. Current War Mothers include

organization within the Pawnee Nation of Oklahoma Dolores Riley, Sharon Swartz, Walthena Chapman

with many sons and daughters serving in every mili- Lawrence, Angie EchoHawk, Katherine Keeling. Antary conflict and branch of the United States Govern- gels include Donna Mulder and Phammie Littlesun.

ment. The War Mothers have their own song and We are very grateful to have supportive Angels who

when active duty service members come home, we help us achieve all our goals.

can request this song at dances to honor our sons and

daughters.

The Pawnee Public Schools, grades K-5, again made

Christmas Cards for all service members. The chilThe Pawnee War Mothers currently support our Vet- dren responded with the most wonderful Christmas

eran’s organization as much as possible with their cards. We also obtained donations of candy and other

fundraisers, events and concessions at their Dances. miscellaneous items. We boxed up these items and

The Pawnee War Mothers participated in the Pawnee mailed them to service members stationed around the

Indian Veterans Homecoming Parade, taking first world.

place in the entered category.

We are very grateful for all our sons’ and daughters’

A tradition of the Pawnee War Mothers is to take gifts sacrifices and efforts made for the freedom and peace

to the Veterans Administration Hospital in Oklahoma we enjoy.

City for Mother’s Day so that wounded service members are afforded the opportunity to pick out a gift for

their Mother and have it sent to her.

In October 2015, we held an election of officers

wherein Kathaleen Daniels was elected President,

Barbara Attocknie as Vice-President, Rebecca

Littlesun-Hawkins as Treasurer, and Denise Miller as

Contact Information

American War Mothers

Pawnee Indian Chapter 12

PO Box 14

Pawnee, Oklahoma 74058

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Oklahoma Military Hall of Fame

Page 9

Page 10

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Executive Director Introduction

Message from the Executive Director

Hello Pawnee Nation! I just wanted to take this opportunity to introduce myself and

also give you a little insight into what the executive office has been up to. My name

is Andrew Knife Chief, my father is Charles D. Knife Chief, my mother is the former

Kimberly K. Long of Anaheim, and my grandparents were John A. Knife Chief and

Lois Knife Chief of Pawnee. I was born in Anaheim California and as a family, we

moved back to Oklahoma in 1991. At the time, my Uppit John’s health was declining and my father wanted to move closer to Pawnee so that he could spend more

time with his father. After graduating from High School in 1995 I followed my Uppit

into the Marine Corps where I served until being Honorably Discharged in 2003. I

then went back to school where I completed a Bachelors in History which led to my

being admitted into Law School. After my Graduation I made the decision to return

to my tribe to continue to build upon the great things our tribal employees and elected officials had started

here.

As the executive director, my responsibility is, first and foremost, to the laws, codes, history and culture of the

Pawnee people. I have been in the process of drafting policies and rules that take into account our unique heritage, while at the same time, protecting our Nation from forces that too often do not recognize our cultural Identity. My job is also to administer the government in an efficient manner, ensuring fair hiring practices, fair disciplinary actions, and fostering a positive work environment where our employees feel as though they are a

valued member of our extended Pawnee family. We have been working on many events, we have started construction on the Pawnee Nation Resources Center, the IHS parking lot, and we are also beginning the next

ICDBG project: The Pawnee Nation Aquatic Center. I have challenged each division, department, and program

to reach out to each other and support each other in all facets of governmental activities so that we can all be

vested in the accomplishments we achieve.

I know that we have excellent employees who diligently work hard every day to provide services with very

limited resources. It is a testament to their creativity, ingenuity, work ethic, and skill that the Pawnee Nation is

moving forward in such a positive way. I commend them. I look forward to working with each and every one

of you in the future and I encourage all citizens to become involved in their tribe, their government, and their

community so that we can continue to grow and continue to serve. Thank you so much and may our Heavenly

Father continue to provide our Nation with the many blessings he has bestowed upon us.

Respectfully,

Andrew Knife Chief

Executive Office

The Executive Office provides support to the Pawnee Business

Council and also to the various committees and boards of the

Pawnee Nation. They also provide support to those tribal members

that call or visit the tribal administrative offices on who they need to

see or what services they are seeking.

This office consists of Cynthia Butler who is the Executive

Administrative Assistant,

Amber Burger, Executive Office

Assistant and Robin Long who is the receptionist and office assistant.

This office also keeps the official calendar of events for the Pawnee

Business Council and tribal employees.

The Executive Office is located on the first floor of the “Girl’s

Dormitory” of the former Pawnee Indian School.

(L to R) Amber Burger, Cynthia Butler, and

Robin Long

Page 11

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Pawnee Nation Committees, Commissions, and Boards

Committees:

Commissions:

Boards:

Budget/Finance Committee

Election Commission

Housing Authority Board

Cultural Committee

Environmental Regulatory

Commission

Museum Board of Directors

Education Committee

Enrollment Committee

Ethics Committee

Governing Documents Committee

Grievance Committee

Human Resources Committee

Land Management Committee

Gaming Commission

Liquor Control Commission

Sports Commission

Tax Commission

Pawnee Nation College Board of

Trustees (PNC)

Pawnee Tribal Development

Corporation Board of Directors

(TDC)

TERO Commission

Utility Commission

Language Committee

Property Committee

Proposal Review Committee

Repatriation Committee

Tribal Emergency Response

Committee (TERC)

Education

floor of the Health and Community Services Building.

Please watch for class announcements for the each semes- Community members welcome. For more information,

ter at the Pawnee Nation College, this will be posted at the call (918) 762-4832.

Pawnee Nation website: www.pawneenation.org

Pawnee Tribal Court

Substance Abuse Program (SAP)

Court will be held the first Wednesday of each month. For

Every Wednesday of the month, the SAP support group more information, call (918) 762-3649.

meets from 7-8 pm in the SAP building. For details, call

(918) 762-2153

Visit www.pawneenation.org and/or the Pawnee Nation

Facebook page for additional information about the PawPawnee Business Council Meetings 2016

nee Nation and upcoming events.

Meetings are held the second Wednesday of each month

beginning at 9 am and the fourth Thursday of each month For information about the Pawnee Nation College, visit

with the Thursday meeting beginning at 5:30 pm. PBC www.pawneenationcollege.org.

Meetings are held at the Multi-Purpose Center. Dates may

be subject to change. For more information, call (918) 762 Pawnee Nation - (918) 762-3621

-3621.

PTDC – (918) 762-4832

Pawnee Indian Health Service – (918) 762-2517

Tribal Development Corporation (PTDC)

Pawnee Nation College – (918) 762-3343

PTDC meetings are held on Tuesdays at 5:30 pm in the

Corporate Office Conference Room located on the second

Page 12

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

PAWNEE NATION BURIAL POLICY

PURPOSE

Finance that includes payee, address, rate (actual cost of the

building uscheck number, date issued, and signa- age). Currently $585 is the total cost

This policy is to provide ture line if check is picked up.

associated with burial including the use

guidelines to the Pawnee Nation in

of the building and labor costs. Payaproviding financial assistance,

ser- NOTIFICATION/VERIFICATION ble when building is reserved.

vices and facilities for our tribal famiOF DEATH

lies that have incurred a death.

CEMETARIES

The Pawnee Nation is normalELIGIBILITY

ly notified by the family of the death.

Pawnee Tribal cemeteries are

Verification is to be provided available for tribal members’ burial.

Enrolled members of Pawnee with the funeral home, law enforce- Tribal Operations staff will prepare

Nation.

ment, written statement from relative. the grave site, cover it and maintain it.

A) Infants under the age of

Upon notification and verificaNon- tribal members may be

one (1) year that qualify for Pawnee tion of death, Executive Office verifies buried in the cemeteries next to an entribal enrollment (at least 1/8

Paw- tribal enrollment with

Enrollment rolled spouse, parent, child, or other

nee blood quantum), or are eligible for Office. Enrollment Offices provides enrolled family member for a minimal

enrollment, but have not been enrolled date of birth and enrollment number.

fee. Tribal operations shall assess a

or received burial assistance from anAddress of payee is required. charge for the grave preparation

other Tribe.

Deaths not reported within a services and the cost of the plot.

B) Infants over the age of one year will not be eligible for payment.

year of age that have not been enrolled

DISPUTES

are not eligible for assistance unless an

TRIBAL FLAGS

enrollment form for the infant’s enrollTribe will handle disputes on

Tribal flags will be lowered an individual basis.

ment has been filed with Pawnee Tribafter notification and verification is

al Enrollment Office.

Cancelled checks will be kept

made.

on file, and upon request copies will be

AMOUNT OF BURIAL ASSISFlags will be lowered in com- furnished to any tribal members disTANCE

pliance with the existing policy for puting they received a check or that the

four days.

check was issued to the wrong person.

The Pawnee Business shall set the

In the event of a burial being

If the payee misrepresents beamount for burial assistance in the an- delayed over four days due to services ing next of kin or the person of record

nual budgeting process. The amount of being held out of the Pawnee area, responsible for the burial cost and is

burial will be established in the annual cremation and a memorial service held not, the case will be forwarded to Law

tribal

operating budget.

later, or similar situation, flags will be Enforcement.

The maximum amount of as- raised on the fifth day.

Pawnee Nation District Court

sistance available for 2015-2016 is:

Pawnee Business Council shall be the court of jurisdiction. If the

A) $4,500 payable to the fu- President can have the tribal flags low- court rules payee should not have reneral home for burial.

ered for extenuating circumstances.

ceived the payment, the payee is reB) $500 is payable to the perThe U.S. Flag will be lowered sponsible for costs involved in the

son that financially responsible for the for a

congressional honor or by prosecution.

burial to be used for immediate needs. Presidential Proclamation.

C) Any costs exceeding these

Disclaimer: The Burial Policy is printamounts will be the responsibility of

BUILDING USE

ed, with minor revisions, as stated in

the person financially responsible for

the Pawnee Nation Policies.

burial costs.

Tribal buildings (Roam Chief,

D) Any funds not expended Roundhouse, and Community Buildwill be retained in the burial fund.

ing) shall be made available for tribal

members for viewing, wakes, services,

CHECK DISBURSEMENT

feasts, and dinners at no cost.

No deposit is required. Tribal

Checks will be issued to the Operations staff is responsible for upfuneral home (not to exceed $4,500) keep and cleaning of buildings. In

and person that is financially

re- event of the large crowds, Multisponsible for the burial costs, normally Purpose and or Wellness Center may

the next of kin, i.e. spouse, parent, be used. In accordance with Policy

adult, child, etc. ($500). Checks are Rental, funerals have priority and other

high priority and issued in an expedient events may be cancelled or moved.

manner, usually within 24 hours.

Non –enrolled members may

Records shall be maintained in be granted building use at a reduced

Page 13

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Finance Division

The Finance Division of the Pawnee Nation manages, members, other employees, program directors and

directs and oversees all financial activities for the managers, vendors, in addition to other tribal organiNation in support of the goals and objectives of the zations and federal agencies.

Pawnee Nation government.

The finance division works toward having solid and

The Pawnee Nation government ensures fiscal integri- sound financial records and has an annual independent

ty for the organization to provide reasonable assurance audit conducted to ensure the financial systems of the

that transactions made with tribal or federal dollars are Nation are in order and financial information is accuauthorized, reasonable, allowable and are in compli- rate. The financial records of the Pawnee Nation are

ance under the guidance of OMB 2 CFR Part 200; the reviewed by federal funding agencies and other users

Pawnee Nation of Oklahoma’s Fiscal Policies and of financial information, including the Pawnee Nation

Procedures; the Governmental Accounting Standards government. When the annual independent audit is

Board (GASB); and the Generally Accepted Account- submitted to the Federal Audit Clearinghouse it is

ing Principles (GAAP).

made available to the various funding agencies that

have funded the federal programs administered by the

There are many roles and functions that define the fi- Pawnee Nation. The finance division is responsible to

nance department which includes being responsible follow-up on any recommendations made by the audifor the safekeeping of the Nation’s funds, ensuring all tor.

the Nation’s assets are safe, accurately recorded and

reported on, as well as ensuring that proper internal The finance division also includes the Grants and

controls are in place.

Contracts office, which provides assistance to the various federal grants that the Nation administers.

The finance division utilizes a solid, top selling, nonprofit accounting software system to accurately man- The finance division is located on the 2nd floor of

age, classify, and report on the Nation’s financial ac- Building 64 also known as the “Girl’s Dormitory of

tivities. The accounting system allows all offices with- the former Pawnee Indian School and the finance emin this division to integrate their separate functions to ployees can be reached at 918-762-3621 using the folproduce a variety of daily, monthly or yearly financial lowing extensions:

reports for users of financial information.

William Perry, Finance Director, Ext. 205

The core functions of the finance division are:

Laura Melton, Grants and Contracts Mgr., Ext. 123

Accounts Payable – Records and processes payments Janet Mulder, AP Clerk, Ext. 121

for tribal and federal expenditures.

James Rice, Accountant, Ext. 197

Accounts Receivable – Records funds received for Freida Pratt, Payroll Clerk, Ext. 125

payments.

Nancy Moore, Accountant, Ext. 119

Payroll – Make sure employees, committees and commissions are paid accurately and on time.

General Accounting – Reports, reconciliations, journal

entries, analysis.

Budgeting – Assists in creation and maintenance of

annual budgets, monitors budgets.

Reporting – Produce reports to show how tribal and

federal funds are being spent.

Internal Controls – Adhere to separation of duties/risk

assessments; ensure roles clearly defined.

Cash Flow – Responsible for ensuring funds are available for all payments due.

Capital Assets – Proper recording of inventories and

equipment.

Audit – Prepares for organization wide annual audit,

responsible for follow-up activities.

Standing (L to R): William Perry, Carol Little, Janet

Aside from the list of functions mentioned, there are Mulder, and Frieda Pratt.

many other responsibilities of the finance division; Seated (L to R): Laura Melton, Nancy Moore, and

collectively the employees of the finance division are

here to serve the Pawnee Nation government, tribal James Rice.

Page 14

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

2015 Financial Overview

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

2015 Financial Overview, cont’d

Page 15

Page 16

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

2015 Financial Overview, cont’d

Page 17

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

2015 Financial Overview, cont’d

Funding Agency

BIA-Bureau of Indian Affairs

AOA – Administration on Aging - Title VI

DHHS – Dept. of Health and Human Services

EPA – Environmental Protection Agency

DOT – Dept. of Transportation

Library Services

USDA – U.S. Dept. of Agriculture

National Park Service

HUD – Housing and Urban Development

Dept. of Education

Dept. of Justice

EEOC – Equal Employment Opportunity

Center For Disease Control

IHS – Indian Health Service

IHS – Parking Lot

2015 Award Amount

1,005,043

107,296

421,418

306,796

937,619

7,000

204,453

116,620

800,000

451,963

450,000

26,000

267,346

759,358

395,732

Total

6,256,644

Page 18

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Human Resources Department

The Human Resources (HR) department serves all eight division of the Pawnee Nation by performing tasks

and duties such as; advertising vacant positions, recruiting highly skilled and qualified applicants, coordinating

employee orientation, managing employee relations, administrating benefits, developing and deploying

policies and procedures, maintaining personnel records, monitoring compliance with tribal, state, and federal

labor laws, and researching and establishing wage and compensation rates.

Contact Information

Jamie Nelson, HR Coordinator

jnelson@pawneenation.org

Ext. 142

Matthew Bellendir, HR Manager

mbellendir@pawneenation.org

Ext 124

Office Location

881 Little Dee Drive

Pawnee, OK 74058

Mailing address

PO Box 470, Pawnee, OK 74058

2015 New Full-Time Hires



Richard Shade- Housekeeping

Andrew Knife Chief- Executive Director

Cory DeRoin-LittleWounded- Procurement Manager

William Perry- Finance Director

Carla Carney- Network Security Specialist

Deidre Yerbic- Tribal Planning and Development

Director

Ashley Hadix- Gaming Licensing Assistant

Arthur Attocknie- Gaming Commission Director

Brenda Frazier- Surveillance Manager

Danna Sharp- Surveillance Supervisor

Kenneth Miller- Surveillance Monitor

Nonie Selfridge- Surveillance Technician

Shane Crockett- Surveillance Monitor

Rafael George- Surveillance Monitor

Walterene Hare- TERO Administrative Assistant

Joseph Hawkins- TERO Compliance Officer/

Foreman

Herb Adson- Cultural Resources Director

Jamie McFarland- Child Care Teacher



Amanda Dunbar- Infant- Pre K Teacher

Samantha Turner- Master Teacher

Jimson Shaw- Transportation Tech/Heavy Equipment

Operator

Christina Goodson- Youth Services Coordinator

Melisalyn Harris- Indian Child Welfare Coordinator

Priscilla Begay- Inventory/Receiving Clerk

Jonathan Snell- Surveillance Monitor

Jamie Nelson- HR Coordinator

Margaret Twins- Gaming Office Assistant

Brandon Novotny- Surveillance Supervisor

Martha Only A Chief- Cultural Resources Administrative Assistant

Jerry Riley- Title VI Assistant Cook

2015 New Part Time Hires



Becky Holt- Childcare Cook

Brooklin Dailey- Pawnee Nation College Clerk/Van

Driver

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Page 19

Planning and Development Division

MEMBERS OF THE PAWNEE NATION BY

Contact Information

EXERCISING OUR INHERENT SOVEREIGN

Deidre Yerbic

RIGHTS, WHILE MAINTAINING TRADITIONAL

dyerbic@pawneenation.org

AND CULTURAL CUSTOMS AND RESPECT OF

Ext. 127

THE PAWNEE PEOPLE.

Office Location

881 Little Dee Drive

Assisted PBC in developing the following priorities

Pawnee, OK 74058

LEADERSHIP & TRAINING

The Division of Planning and Tribal Development INVESTING IN TRIBAL MEMBERS THROUGH

hired a new Division Director in July of 2015. Deidre

Bigheart Yerbic is an Osage tribal member and lives CIVIC RESPONSIBILITY, EMPLOYMENT, MENin Morrison, Oklahoma. Deidre completed degree TORSHIP, AND VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES TO

programs at the University of Central Oklahoma as ENRICH THE LIVES AND BUILD THE CAPACITY

well as the University of Oklahoma. During her tenure OF THE PAWNEE PEOPLE.

as an educator and researcher, Deidre developed

YOUTH

expertise in evaluation, organizational structure and

instruction. She brings to her new position over ten INVESTING IN TRIBAL YOUTH BY PROVIDING

years of Executive Tribal Administrative experience OPPORTUNITIES AND RESOURCES THROUGH

as well as government affairs experience. Her passion CULTURAL, EDUCATIONAL, AND RECREATIONis to promote tribal sovereignty through self- AL ACTIVITIES.

governance and plans to focus on ensuring the Federal

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

recognition of the Pawnee Nation for future DEVELOP, IN COLABORATION WITH THE PN

generations. As the Planning Director, Deidre has

been tasked with facilitating the development of a TDC, A DIVERSIFIED STRATEGIC ECONOMIC

Strategic Plan with the Pawnee Business Council, PLATFORM IN ORDER TO ENSURE THE

conducting systemic program evaluations in order to ECONOMIC GROWTH AND STABILITY OF THE

inform the processes and structure of the Pawnee PAWNEE NATION.

Nation government departments and divisions.

CULTURE

PROMOTING, ENCOURAGING AND LIVING THE

2015 Highlights:

PAWNEE WAY OF LIFE.

Secured the Construction Manager contract for the

Pawnee Resource Building; ICDBG-14 project.

HEALTH

PROMOTE HEALTHY LIFESTYLES THROUGH

Developed a vision and mission statement with the

SPIRITUAL, SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES

PBC

AND EVENTS.

PBC Vision Statement

EDUCATION

THE PAWNEE NATION WITH ABOUNDING

PRIDE IN OUR CULTURAL AND TRADITIONAL PROVIDING OPPURTUNITIES TO OBTAIN SELFHERITAGE WILL PROMOTE OUR SOCIAL, SUFFICIENCY, ENLIGHTEN MEMBERS ON NEW

ECONOMIC AND POLITICAL ADVANCEMENT OR EXPANDED POSSIBILITIES, ENCOURAGING

TO SECURE THE COMMON WELFARE AND EMPOWERMENT AND PROMOTING LIFE-LONG

WELL BEING OF OUR NATION AND ITS LEARNING.

FAMILY DEVELOPMENT

MEMBERS

THROUGH

TRANSPARENCY,

PROVIDING A TRADITIONAL, SPIRITUAL AND

TRUST, LEADERSHIP AND SOVEREIGNTY.

CULTURAL UNDERSTANDING OF WHO WE ARE

AS PAWNEE PEOPLE WHILE SUPPORTING,

PBC Mission Statement

THROUGH FAITH, TRUST, AND GUIDANCE OF STRENGTHENING & EDUCATING THE FAMILY

TIRAWAHAT PROVIDE EFFECTIVE AND UNIT AND PROMOTING POSITIVE FAMILY

EXEMPLARY LEADERSHIP TO PROMOTE, DEVELOPMENT.

PROTECT, AND ENRICH THE LIVES OF THE

Page 20

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Planning and Development Division

GOVERNMENTAL & RESOURCE

PRIORITY NEEDS AND SUSTAIN ESTABLISHED

DEVELOPMENT

PROGRAMS AND SERVICES.

PROVIDE A STABLE ORGANIZATIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE, INSTITUTE LAW AND ORDER Submitted proposals and provide technical assistance

CODES THAT PROMOTE AND EXERCISE SELF- to the following Divisions: Health & Community SerDETERMINATION, OBTAIN NECESSARY RE- vices, Natural Resources and Safety, Cultural ReSOURCES TO ADEQUATELY ADDRESS TRIBAL sources and Education.

Open Meeting on the Pawnee Language

PBC Strategic Planning Session

Indian Community Development Block Grant (ICDBG)

This division also includes the Indian Community Development Block

Grant (ICDBG) Office, which has Reva Howell as the Project Coordinator.

Highlights of this office includes the following



Close-out of the 2012 ICDBG “Elder’s Facility Project”



Near completion of the design of the Pawnee Resource Center that

is funded under the 2014 ICDBG funding cycle; and

Contact Information

Reva Howell, Coordinator

rhowell@pawneenation.org

Ext. 194



The development and submission of a new HUD proposal for the

2015 funding cycle for an Aquatic Center.

Office Location:

881 Little Dee Drive

Pawnee, OK 74058

Page 21

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Administrative Affairs Division

The Administrative Affairs Division has administra- Also, assisted the Finance Division with the 2016

tive oversight of four Departments of the Pawnee Budget Call and was the acting Finance Director

Nation and they include:

during the time period when the Human Resources

Office was recruiting for a new Finance Director.

 Information Technology Department, located in

Building 64



Communications Department, located in the

Multipurpose Center



Procurement Department, located in Building 64



Enrollment Department, located in Building 1

Muriel Robedeaux is the Administrative Affairs

Director and other duties other than oversight of the

four departments listed above includes, review and

revision of the Fiscal Policies and Procedures,

Organizational Chart changes, sitting on the Budget

Committee, Proposal Review Committee and is a

member of the Executive Staff.

This past year’s accomplishments have included assisting the Finance Division in the development of the

Indirect Cost Proposals for 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015

and 2016. The 2012-2014 Indirect Cost Rates were

also approved during this calendar year and the 2015

and 2016 will be reviewed by our cognizant agency in

2016.

Information Technology Department

It is the purpose of the Office of Information Technology (OIT) to provide the Pawnee Nation and its

programs support and services in the area of Information Technology. The services provided include

network administration, systems administration,

desktop support and consulting & procurement services directly related to tribal computer systems. The

office carries out its roles and responsibilities to applicable departments and programs that secure such services through indirect cost contributions.

In 2015, the IT department continued on the path laid

forth by the IT Strategic Plan. We continued with the

Desktop Redirection initiative by building out more

new servers and placing users and data on those servers, completed a portion of Objective 3 of the IT Strategic Plan (Segregate SAN to Server Traffic), started

the process of moving our phone lines over to the SIP

trunks, and attended various trainings locally and

online to help further our skillsets.

We finished the process of moving our phone lines

over to the SIP trunks, continued with the Desktop

Redirection initiative by building out more new servers and placing users and data on those servers, and

Contact Information

Muriel Robedeaux

mrobedeaux@pawneenation.org

918-762-3621 Ext. 128

Office Location

881 Little Dee Drive

Pawnee, OK 74058

attended various trainings locally, online, and abroad

to help further our skillsets.

(L to R)

Pius SpottedHorsechief (IT Systems Administrator),

Carla Carney (Network Security Specialist)

Ciara Perryman (Computer Support Specialist)

Christal Windholz (IT Manager)

Page 22

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Administrative Affairs Division

Procurement Department

The Procurement Department was established in the

end of the second quarter, of 2015, and at first, the

Procurement

Department

only

housed

the

Procurement Manager, Cory DeRoin Little Wounded,

and was originally housed within the Finance Division.

This department was eventually transferred to the

Division of Administrative Affairs at the end of the

last quarter of 2015. Here, the Procurement

Department has been able to pick up momentum, and

has made strides in the areas of inventory control and

purchasing.

Major accomplishments has included assisting in

writing of Request for Proposals (RFP), and becoming

more involved in bid-openings. A new member of

this division was recruited through the Human

Resources Department and Priscilla Begay was hired

as the Inventory/Receiving Clerk.

This new department is located on the south side of

Building 64, next to the Information Technology

Department.

Contact Information

Cory DeRoin-LittleWounded, Procurement Manager Ext. 118

cderoin@pawneenation.org

Priscilla Begay, Inventory/Receiving Clerk Ext. 117

pbegay@pawneenation.org

Address

881 Little Dee Drive

Pawnee, OK 74058

Communications Department

The Communications Manager is the editor and

designer of the Chaticks Si Chaticks, the Official

publication of the Pawnee Nation. This year six newspapers were printed. The March, April, July,

September, December and a Special Election issue in

mid-December. The April paper was also an Election

Issue with letters from candidates for President,

Treasurer, First and Second Council Seats. A live

radio program that addresses what is going on at the

Pawnee Nation airs on the first and third Wednesday

of every month at 9:00 a.m. The pro-gram airs live on

1600 Kush and is available online at

www.1600KUSH.com. The Communications Office

is responsible for photographing all Tribal Events and

updating the website and Facebook pages on a daily

basis. The Communications Manager also serves as

the Public Information Officer for Emergency

Management. Additional duties include; approving all

flyers that announce Pawnee Nation Events and any

press releases that are distributed to the media and the

public.

Contact Information

Jeffery Harjo, Communications Manager

jharjo@pawneenation.org

Ext. 126

Office Location

806 S. Morris Rd

Pawnee, OK 74058

(Pawnee Nation Wellness Center)

Visit us on Facebook: Pawnee Nation of Oklahoma

Page 23

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Administrative Affairs Division

Enrollment Department

The Pawnee Nation’s Enrollment Department is

responsible for all aspects of tribal membership. This

scope of work includes, but is not limited to,

maintaining up-to-date tribal enrollment records,

providing and processing applications for tribal

enrollment, processing relinquishments per request of

tribal enrollment, process relinquishment of Pawnee

membership when dual enrollment is discovered, issuing

Pawnee Tribal Member Certificate of Degree of Indian

Blood (CDIB) cards, issuing Verification of Indian

Preference (BIA Form 4432) forms and updating tribal

members addresses.

There were 105 Pawnee Nation Tribal Members added

to the membership roll for the year 2015.

The following is a pie graph for the main services which

the Enrollment Department provided for the 2015 year.

Enrollment Statistical Data

(as of the close of 2015)

3,435

Pawnee Enrolled

Tribal Members

610

Pawnee Tribal Members living in the City

of Pawnee.

2,112 Tribal Members live in Oklahoma and

1,323 Tribal Members living outside of Oklahoma

Pawnee Nation Membership

composed of

1,720 males & 1,715 females

(L to R) Carrie Peters and Karen Haymond

Contact Information

Carrie Peters, Enrollment Manager

cpeters@pawneenation.org

Ext. 136

Karen Haymond, Enrollment Assistant

khaymond@pawneenation.org

Ext. 137

Office Location

490 Agency Road

Pawnee, OK 74058

Page 24

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Pawnee Tribal Court

Telephone/Communications in the amount of

$5,788.00 and expendable office supplies in the

amount of $1,256. This budget cannot support Space

Costs (rent) or any costs related to training, such as

Per Diem, Lodging, Mileage, Tolls, Parking and

Registration Fees.

The Court Budget is supplemented annually by tribal

funds. This year, the total awarded amount was

$117,032. This budget provides for the salary of one

full-time Deputy Court Clerk. It also provides for the

five Supreme Court Justices contractual salary at

$450.00 for each of the five Justices, which totals of

$2,250 per year. The budget allows for the Justices to

meet twice each year as well as two Administrative

(L to R) Brandi Johnson and Suzie Kanuho

days for each of the Justices to review and render

decisions on pending appeals. The Supreme Court

Contact Information

Justices are the following; the Honorable Bob

Suzie Kanuho, Court Clerk

Buchanan of Pawnee, OK, has been appointed as

skanuho@pawneenation.org

Chief Justice. Justice Buchanan’s term will expire on

Ext. 140

June 23, 2016; the Honorable Terry Mason Moore, of

Fairfax, OK, contract ending December 20, 2015; the

Brandi Johnson, Deputy Court Clerk

Honorable Mark Echo-Hawk, of Pocotello, ID,

bjohnson@pawneenation.org

contract ending September 27 2021 and the Honorable

Ext. 141

Gregory D. Smith, of Clarksville, TN. Justice Smith

was appointed to the Supreme Court Justice position

Office Location

on March 6, 2015. Marsha Harlan submitted her res700 Agency Rd

ignation as Supreme Court Justice on May 15, 2015.

Bld. 33

Recruitment to fill the vacancy left by Ms. Harlan’s

Pawnee, OK 74058

resignation occurred in September, 2015. However,

this recruitment only garnered 2 applicants. A larger

The Pawnee Nation was awarded a Multi-Year, three applicant pool is desired to pull from for interviews.

(3) year P.L. 93-638 Self-Determination contract for A second recruitment for this position will occur in

Fiscal Year 2013 through Fiscal Year 2015, from the early January, 2016. The Justices serve eight year

Bureau of Indian Affairs for the administration of the terms according to the statues of the Pawnee Nation

Tribal Court Program. The awarded amount for 2015 Law and Order Code.

was $45,160. A final allocation of Direct Cost funds

were added to make our final allocation budget The Pawnee Nation Supreme Court convened on

$45,619. Indirect Cost funds were added to the Con- Monday, October 5, 2015, at 9:00 am. District Court

tract in the amount of $5,075 for the total amount of Chief Judge, Dianne Barker Harrold, Public Defender,

$50,694 annual Tribal Court budget.

Don Mason and Prosecutor Geri Wisner addressed the

Supreme Court regarding issues with juvenile matters

The B.I.A. Tribal Court Contract budget provides for in the District Court and possible solutions to the

the salary of one full-time staff, the Court Clerk/Court issues. The Supreme Court then convened to address

Administrator, who serves in the capacity of Program one pending appeal.

Director and is responsible for administering and

overseeing the budgets and contract reporting require- The Tribal Funds budget provides for the Pawnee Naments. This position also oversees the operation of tion District Court to hear Court dockets twice per

the court and the administration of the tribal court as month. Court was held twenty two (22) times in

stated within the statutes of the Pawnee Nation Law 2015. In 2015, Chief Judge Dianne Barker Harrold

and Order Code. The breakdown of the budget; the presided over nine (9) dockets on April 24, May 29,

Court Clerk/Administrator’s annual salary is $38,584 June 26, July 31, August 14, September 11, October

for the year plus fringe benefits in the amount of 23, November 18, and December 18. Chief Judge,

$5,779.

The awarded grant/contract allows for Dianne Barker Harrold’s contractual salary per year is

Page 25

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Pawnee Tribal Court

$5,400 annually and is paid from the Supplemental cases; 78 civil cases; 19 divorces, 9 small claims, 5

Budget funds. During a special session on March 6, marriage, 60 guardianships, 4 juveniles, 0 adoption,

2015; the Pawnee Nation Business Council selected and 1 Supreme Court case that were heard before the

Judge Dianne Barker Harrold to fill the position of Court for the year 2015.

Chief Judge for the District Court after Chief Judge

Jon Douthitt submitted his resignation on December Continued Accomplishments

18, 2014. District Court Chief Judge Dianne Barker

Harrold’s contract is for six years and will end on Our case load has increased, from 171 in 2014 to a

March 13, 2021. Chief Judge Barker Harrold holds total of 192 cases that were on the docket for 2015;

her dockets on the last Friday of each month hearing consisting of 10 criminal cases; 78 civil cases; 20

a morning docket of Civil, Guardianship and VAW divorces, 9 small claims, 5 marriages, 63

cases and an afternoon docket of Criminal and guardianships, 13 juvenile, 0 adoption and 1 Supreme

Juvenile cases. With the splitting of her dockets in Court case that were heard for the year 2015. The

this manner; this eases and remedies and over Court Clerk’s case load consists of processing

crowded courtroom and allows for confidentiality in petitions such as guardianships, name change

petitions, divorce petitions, adoptions, child custody

certain cases.

petitions, termination of parental rights, and voluntary

The Honorable Phil Lujan presided as Associate grant of custodial care petitions, civil complaint

Judge to hear cases that the District Court Chief petitions, small claims, and marriages; as well as

Judge may have recused herself from hearing as well drafting Orders for the Judges.

as all other civil matters assigned to his docket. In

2015 Court was held twelve (12) times, with Judge The Court Clerk, Suzie Kanuho has been busy

Lujan presiding on January 9, February 13, March 13, administering the daily operations of the Court. Daily

preparing legal petitions,

April 10, May 8, June 12, July 10, August 28, activities include:

September 28, October 30, November 13, and processing legal cases, drafting orders for the Judge’s

December 11. Associate Judge Lujan’s contract term signature, preparing the court docket, preparing notice

is for 6 years beginning September 27, 2013 and of hearings, maintaining the contract files and

ending September 27, 2019. Associate Judge Lujan preparing contract reports, maintaining court files,

added the Chief Judge’s cases to his docket in procurement files, financial files, invoices, budgets,

February and March, 2015 during the recruitment recording of court proceedings in the courtroom,

period for the Chief Judge position. Contractual swearing in oaths in the courtroom, shorthand,

salary for the Associate Judge is $5,400 annually and transcription, file stamping all incoming legal

documents and recording entries of legal documents

is paid from the Supplemental funds.

in the Court Docket book and entering data in the

Ms. Geri Wisner serves the Pawnee Nation District Court Management System the Court Clerk also

Court as Prosecutor. Ms. Wisner’s contract term is serves as the receptionist answering the telephone,

for three years and will expire on June 1, 2016. The issues receipts, collects fines and fees, makes bank

The Court Clerk’s

Prosecutor’s salary is $400 per court session for 24 deposits, post office runs.

sessions per year, with an annual salary of $9,600 per associates are the Prosecutor, Public Defender, Indian

year with funding allocated from the Tribal Court Child Welfare Caseworker, Violence Against Women

Advocates, Substance Abuse Program, B.I.A Social

Supplemental budget.

Worker, Court Appointed Special Advocates,

Mr. Don Mason, Jr. serves the Pawnee Nation District Department of Environmental Conservation, and

Court as Public Defender. The term of his contract is Tribal Police. The Court clerk works under the

for 3 years which will expire on August 8, 2016. His direction and supervision of the Executive Director

salary is $400 per Court session for 24 sessions per and the Supreme Court Chief Justice.

year and an annual salary of the Public Defender

position is $9,600, which also is paid from the Tribal Ms. Brandi Johnson fulfills the duties as full-time

Deputy Court Clerk and assists the Court Clerk with

Court Supplemental budget.

the following duties: serves as receptionist, collects

The total combined BIA Tribal Court Budget and fines and fees, issues receipts, makes bank deposits,

Contractual Judicial Salaries Budget (Supplement enters data into the Court Management System, filing,

Funds and Indirect Costs) totals $167,726 for the year assisting individuals with filling out forms and refers

2015, which is a decrease from the 2014 budgets. individuals to the Public Defender for legal advice or

This past year, court was held on 22 court dates for to answer legal questions. Ms. Johnson attended and

the year 2015. There was a total of 10 criminal successfully completed Court Clerk training on April

Page 26

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Pawnee Tribal Court

18, 2014. The training was presented by Indian huge success for the children.

Collaborative Consultants, LLC and hosted by The

Southern Plains Region Bureau of Indian Affairs. Ms. In August, 2013 the Pawnee Nation District Court

Johnson also attended the 2014 Administrative applied for One-Time funding from the Office of

Assistant Conference in Lawton, OK on March 4, Justice Services, Division of Tribal Justice Support to

2014.

establish a Law Library. In November, 2013, the

Pawnee Nation District Court received the award letter

Chief Judge Dianne Barker Harrold administered the granting $20,000. The Pawnee Nation District Court

Oath of Office to the newly elected Pawnee Nation continues efforts to expend these funds and

Business Council members at the Inauguration on May establishing a Law Library.

16, 2015 with assistance from the Court Clerk.

The Pawnee Nation District Court staff collaborated

The Court Clerk and the Deputy Court Clerk attended with Oklahoma Indian Legal Services to provide free

and successfully completed Court Clerk Ethics Wills and Estates Clinics for tribal citizens, held on

Training on November 19 and 20, 2015 in Norman, March 20, 2015. The clinic was held in the courtroom

OK. This training was sponsored by the Bureau of of the Pawnee Nation District Court. This free service

Indian Affairs Southern Plains Regional Office, Office will be a continuing event held periodically as

of Tribal Government Services and was presented by scheduling allows.

Indian Collaborative Consultants.

This training

consisted of a Basic Sovereignty overview; The Pawnee Nation District Court accommodates the

Developing, Writing and Implementing Effective U.S. Department of the Interior Office of Hearings and

Policies;

Identifying

Proper

Procedure; Appeals by posting Notices of Hearings for Probate

Confidentiality; Ethics and Networking. Some of the hearings for Pawnee tribal members and tribal

training was a refresher, but the most helpful part was members of neighboring tribes. Notices for these

networking with different tribal courts across the hearings are posted quarterly. The Interior Office of

United States. As a result of this training, all of the Hearings and Appeals utilize the Pawnee Nation

attendees have developed a networking circle via District Courtroom for Probate Hearings. The Court

e-mail.

Clerk and Deputy Court Clerk do not assist the

Administrative Law Judge during these hearings.

In December, 2015, the District Court staff partnered

with the Pawnee Nation Indian Child Welfare staff Our goal is to provide a tribal court system for the

and Pawnee Nation Law Enforcement staff to host a administration of justice for the Pawnee Nation in

Christmas party for our tribal foster children. Staff criminal, civil, and juvenile matters. This goal has

members of the Health and Community Services been accomplished for the year 2015 with the

Division and Planning Division were also on hand to continued funding received from the contract funds

assist in helping with the various activities that were from the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Department of the

planned for the children during the party. An Interior.

anonymous donor donated toys for all of the children

and T-shirts were donated by the Pawnee Nation Tax Respectfully Submitted By:

Commission for each child. We extend our sincere

thanks to the many individuals, organizations and Suzanne Kanuho, Court Clerk

tribal programs for the donations to make the party a Pawnee Nation District Court

Total Amount of Fines/Fees Collected

PNSC

Criminal

Civil

Small Claims

Guardianship

Divorce

Marriage

Grand Total:

$200.00

$1,346.25

$285.00

$598.00

$333.00

$175.00

$3,137.25

Page 27

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Pawnee Tribal Court

Page 28

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Annual Report Dedication

The Pawnee Nation dedicates the 2015 Annual Report to the

“Pawnee Agency and Boarding School Historic District”.

“Pawnee Agency and Boarding School Historic District” was added to the National Register of Historic

Places in December of 2000.

This aerial photo shows several of the buildings that are a part of the “Pawnee Agency and Boarding School

Historic District”. The original names of each of the buildings is shown in the table below and it also shows

the year that each building opened or when construction began.

Several of these buildings that were once closed up after the Pawnee Indian School was closed in 1958 have

since been renovated and are in use today for several of the programs and offices that provide services to the

Pawnee Nation.

The aerial photo was taken by William H. Howell, Pawnee tribal member in December of 2001.

A: Pawnee-Ponca Indian Hospital, 1928

F: Staff Quarters, 1927

B: Pawnee Agency, 1903

G: Girl’s Dorm, 1878

C: Superintendent’s Home, 1876

H: Quest Quarters, 1927

D: Home Economics Bldg., 1908

I: Schoolhouse. 1013

E: Schoolhouse, 1932

J: Boy’s Dorm, 1909

Page 29

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

“Pawnee Ponca Indian Hospital”, Current name “Health & Community Services Center”

The Pawnee-Ponca Indian Hospital

was originally constructed in 1929

and was completed in 1931. It was

a fifty-five (55) bed facility. The

west section originally was housing

for nurses.

This building was flooded in the

fall of 1959 and the flood water

made it onto the main floor of the

building. The patients and nurses

were evacuated to another facility until the hospital could be cleaned up. The Indian Health Service closed

the in-patient services and became an out-patient clinic in 1982. In 2001 construction began on a replacement

facility and this facility was closed when the new Health Center opened in 2004.

It remained closed until it was transferred back to the Pawnee Nation and then was renovated with HUD

funds and now houses several of the Health & Community Services Programs for the Pawnee Nation.

Pawnee Agency Office, Current name “Bldg #1”

The Pawnee Agency building was

constructed in the late 1903 shortly

after the arrival of the Pawnee

People from Nebraska.

The wood frame portion that is

located on the north side was added

in 1914.

This building has been used for

several office and in the 1990’s it housed the Tribal Finance Office, but now houses the Enrollment Office

and the Pawnee Nation Tag Office. It is also used by the Nasharo “Chiefs” Council for their meetings that are

held throughout the year.

Superintendent’s Home

The Superintendent’s Home is the

oldest building in this historic

district and was built in 1876.

It was originally built as an office

and residence for the Indian Agent,

then eventually became the home

of the Pawnee Indian School

superintendent. The original porch

was replaced in 1916.

When the Indian School was

closed in 1958, it became a rental

home. It is currently not being

used.

Page 30

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Home Economics Building, Current Name, “Pawnee Nation Court House”

The Home Economics Building

was constructed in 1908 as a

combination steam laundry and

carpenter shop. It was later

converted into a storeroom in

1922. In the late 1920s and early

1930s it was used as a home

economics building and then as a

dormitory.

This is

view of the

cistern

looking

down from

the floor

This is view

of the

cistern looking up from

inside the

cistern.

The Pawnee Nation has used it as

Law Enforcement Office and

Tribal Court. It is now used as the

Tribal Court House after it was

renovated in 2006 with a HUD

grant.

During renovation a

concrete room was uncovered

under one of the offices and a 40

foot deep cistern was uncovered

under one of the hallways.

1932 Classroom Building, Current name “BIA Building”

The 1932 Classroom Building was

built in 1932 as a school building

with classrooms, offices and an auditorium.

After the school was closed in

1958, it was later used as a nursing

home in the 1960s. This building

was renovated in 1976 and is now leased to the Bureau of Indian Affairs for the administrative offices of the

Pawnee Agency. The original terrazzo flooring is still in good shape after all these years.

Employee’s Club, current name: “Staff Quarters”

The Employee’s Club building was

built in 1927 to replace frame building that had served the same

purpose as apartments for some of

the employees of the Indian School.

When the school closed in 1958 this

building became a part of the

Nursing Home that was also using

the 1932 Classroom building.

The Pawnee Nation used this building for offices and eventually as a

storage area. Funding was received

from HUD and this building was

renovated in 2007-2008 which added the exterior staircase on the south side and the wooden portion was

completely rebuilt. It is now used by the Pawnee Nation College for it’s administrative offices with a couple

of classrooms.

Page 31

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Girl’s Dormitory, Current Name “Building 64 or Administration Building”

The original building was built in 1878 as

the Pawnee Indian boarding school. This

building housed both the boys and girls and

also had some classrooms. According to

historical records the building was renovated

in 1890 to make it larger and was later renovated in 1912 again to give it the shape that

it has now.

This building was later renovated in 1976 and now houses the Pawnee Nation Administrative Offices. The

most

current

renovation

occurred on the second floor in

2005 which created space for

the Pawnee Nation College’s

offices, classrooms and a multi

-media classroom and both

stairways were worked on. A

lift for the handicapped was

also installed by the east

stairway.

Employee’s Quarters, Current Name “Pawnee Gaming Commission Building”

The Employee’s Quarters was built in 1927 and originally housed two classrooms and an office for the school

principal. It was later converted to employee apartments after the 1932 Classroom Building opened.

After the school closed in 1958, it

also became a rental unit and

contained two apartments until the

tribe took over the school buildings

and has since been used as offices

and as a fitness center. It is now

being used as offices for the Gaming Commission.

1913 Classroom, Current Name “Albin LeadingFox Center”

The 1913 Classroom building was built in 1913 and was used as a schoolhouse until 1932 when the new 1932

School Building was completed and opened. This building was remodeled in 1933 for use as the school

dining hall, which it was used as until 1958 when the school closed.

It was later used by the Pawnee Nation for office space and the kitchen and dining hall was used by the Title

VI “Elderly Meals” Program until

their new facility was built in 2000.

It was renovated in 2005 with

HUD funds and is now used as

classrooms and offices for the

Pawnee Nation College.

The

kitchen area was renovated for use

as a catering kitchen.

Page 32

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Boy’s Dormitory

The original boy’s dormitory was built

in 1892 which later burned down in

1904. In 1909 a new dormitory was

built and opened to be used by the boys

attending school here at the Pawnee Indian School.

If you look on the north side of the existing building, you can see some of the

outline of the original building, because

a portion of the footing is still visible.

Since the closure of the school in 1958,

this building has remained closed.

Students in front of Original Boy’s Dorm

Girl’s Dormatory

Girl

Students

Boy

Students

Page 33

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Law Enforcement

The Pawnee Nation Law Enforcement jurisdiction  Officer Donna LeadingFox

covers 29,951 acres located within three counties,

918-285-6483

6:00pm – 2:00am

Pawnee, Payne, and Kay, in Oklahoma. Tribal  Dispatcher Roberta Ahdunko

members reside in 32% of tribal Law Enforcement

918-399-2448

7:30am – 4:30pm

direct service area. The Pawnee Nation Law

24 hr on call if unable to reach officer

Enforcement is funded by the Bureau of Indian

Affairs under a five year concurrent contract. The Chief of Police David Kanuho, has held the

police department consists of one (1) Chief of Police,

position of Chief of Police

one (1) Assistant Chief and three (3) Patrol Officers,

since July 29, 1996.

one (1) dispatcher/Administrative Assistant. The

He is a member of the National

Pawnee Nation criminal statistics have risen in the

Native American Chief of

past three years, due to business ventures (casinos,

Police

Association

and

retail enterprises).

Oklahoma Chief of Police

Officers are directed to respond to all calls and

Association. He is trained in

provide professional service to members of the

DUI Detection Standardized

Pawnee Nation. If requested, officers will assist City

Field

Sobriety

Testing,

of Pawnee Police and Pawnee County officers. Violence against Indian Women, Medical Death InOfficers investigate all crimes committed within the vestigations, Hostage Negotiations, Tribal Justice and

Tribe’s jurisdiction and make arrests when necessary. Safety, Advanced Interviewing and Interrogation,

Routine building checks are performed nightly to Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, Criminal

assure all building within the Pawnee Reserve area is Profiling, Certified BIA Firearm instructor. Prior to

secured after hours.

holding this position, he was a Supervisor Police

The Pawnee Nation Police Department participated in Officer for the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Chief

the Community Health Representative Health Fair in Kanuho is a 1991 graduate from the U.S. Indian

June, gave in-house training on Human Trafficking, Police Academy, Class #61, Marana, AZ.

SORNA (Sex Offender Registration and Notification Assistant Chief of Police Harold Gene Howell, has

Act), and Violence Among Us – Active Shooter. The

been a Tribal officer since

Law Enforcement Department in conjunction with the

January 13, 1997. He is in

Pawnee Nation District Court and the Pawnee Nation

charge of all video cameras in

Indian Child Welfare provided a Christmas Party for

the police unit, as well as

all children who are in the custody of the Pawnee

Firearm Instructor for sidearm,

Nation. Foster parents were also acknowledged due

shotguns and AR-15s. He is

to the personal effort they make in caring for these

also a trained Taser instructor,

children.

GRACIE defensive tactics

instructor, Glock Armorer,

In 2015, the Pawnee Nation received a letter from the

Colt Armorer and Beretta

SMART office (Sentencing, Monitoring, Apprehend,

Regulating and Tracking) regarding the final approval Armorer. Radar Operator, Water Rescue, Emergency

of SORNA (Sex Offenders Registration and Medical Technician, Interview and Interrogation I &

Notification Act).

The Pawnee Nation Law II, Hate and Bias Crimes in Rural Towns, Testing for

Enforcement shall maintain and operate pursuant to Alcohol & Drug Influence, Domestic Violence –

the provisions of the Pawnee Nation Registration Spousal and Elderly, Use of Force and Death &

Homicide. Asst. Chief Howell is a 1994 graduate of

Codes and Ordinances.

the U.S. Indian Police Academy, Class #67, Artesia,

Pawnee Nation Law Enforcement Officers

NM.

Phone Numbers and Shifts

Office George (Bob) Horn,

 Chief of Police David Kanuho

has been a Tribal officer since

918-285-6552

7:00am - 3:00 pm

April 25, 2000. He is Field

 Asst Chief of Police Harold Howell

Training Officer and Officers

918-285-6553

3:00pm – 11:00pm

Training Coordinator. He has

received the following training,

 Office George Horn

Raid & High Risk Warrant

918-285-6067

11:00pm – 7:00am

Planning and Execution, Rape

 Office Patrick LeadingFox

& Sex Crime Investigations,

918-285-6068

6:00pm – 2:00am

Practical Kinesics Interview & Interrogations, Dealing

Page 34

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Law Enforcement

with Difficult People, Police and People with

Disabilities, Death & Homicide, Child Death

Investigation – Child Death Scene to Court, Sexual

Deviant Behavior and Hostage Negotiation. Prior to

becoming a Pawnee Nation

Officer, he began his

career as an officer in 1996 for the City of Pawnee

Police Department.

Officer Donna Leading Fox ,

has been a Tribal Officer since

December 3, 2012. She also

serves as Physical Fitness

Officer. She has received

training in Emergency Medical

Technician, Death Notification, Street Crime, Hostage

Officer Patrick Leading Fox,

Negotiation Training, Domeshas been a Tribal Officer since

December 9, 2002. Officer tic Violence, Child and Sexual Abuse, and she is a

Defensive Tactics Instructor.

Leading Fox is assigned as the certified GRACIE

Prior

becoming

Pawnee

Nation Officer, she began

department’s Evidence Techniher

career

law

enforcement

in 2004 working as an

cian Officer, His duties include

officer

for

the

City

Pawnee

Police

Department.

being in charge of all evidence

received and disposing of all Dispatcher Robertajean Ahdunko – has been

evidence once a case has been

employed since January 23,

closed. He has received

2012. She also serves as Adtraining in Fire Fighter I, First Responder, Street

ministrative Assistant and

Crimes, Interviewing and Interrogation I & II, Child

SORNA representative, and

Abuse Investigation, Domestic Violence, Cell Phone

Notary Public Commission.

Technology, The Bulletproof Warrior, Enforcing

She has received training in

Underage Drinking Laws & Environmental Strategies,

Public Safety Telecommunicaand a certified Storm Spotter. Officer Leading Fox is

tor, Understanding Language,

a 2003 graduate of the U.S. Indian Police Academy,

& Culture barriers on 9-1-1

Class #97,Artesia, NM.

Calls, Through the Eyes of

Children 9-1-1 Calls, Amber Alert, Human Traffick-

Page 35

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Health & Community Services Division (DHCS)

Mission of the Division of Health and Community During 2014 & 2015, the Division was separated and

Services

there were three different supervisors overseeing their

“To improve the overall wellness and lifestyle of prospective programs. As of July 20, 2015, all eight

Pawnee Tribal members and Native Americans within programs were moved under one supervisor. Since

then, much time has been put into making sure all proour community.”

grams are using the required tribal forms, following

DHCS accomplishes\ this by providing services such all policies and procedures, budgets and funding

as health education, substance abuse counseling, nutri- agency reports are up-to-date, and more importantly,

tion, physical fitness, preservation of family, safety re-establishing teamwork and communication in the

planning, and youth development. The Division of division.

Health and Community Services consists of eight

Contact Information

(programs) under (4) departments: Health-Community

Tiffany Frietze, DHCS Director

Health Representatives/Health Education and Special

Ext. 168

Diabetes Program for Indians; Prevention-Substance

tfrietze@pawneenation.org

Abuse Program and Pawnee Pride; Nutrition ServicesOffice Location:

Food Distribution and Title VI; and Family Services116

DHCS BuildingTi-Hirasa Domestic Violence Program and Indian

400 Agency Road

Child Welfare.

Community Health Representative & Health Education Programs

The Community Health Representative (CHR) and

Health Education (HE) Programs provide an array of 

health based services to the both the Tribal and Nontribal communities within Pawnee County. The

overall goal for both of these programs is to advocate

for and enhance the quality of life of the people we

serve. The goals and objectives for both the CHR and 

Health Education programs were successfully met

during 2015 with the outcomes listed below.



The CHR program gained one new staff member during 2015. Grant Hawkins came on board with the

program as a Generalist in August 2015 and has been

a great asset to the program. Other CHR staff

members include Jaime Jestes, Program Coordinator, 

Jasha Lyons – Echo-Hawk, Administrative Assistant,

and Sharon Swartz, Generalist.

eligible clientele January-December 2015

Provided (145) medication and medical supplies

pick-up and deliveries from I.H.S., I.H.S. referral

facilities and local pharmacies – JanuaryDecember 2015

Provided (52) home visits to homebound clientele

– January-December 2015

Created and implemented the Pawnee Nation

Wellness Program that includes walking/running

group, boot camp sessions, and Zumba sessions

each week with an average of (35-40) participants

each week – January –December 2015

Hosted emergency preparedness classes and

smoke detector drive in collaboration with Pawnee

Nation Fire and Safety Dept. and American Red

Cross with a total of (29) participants – January,

April, and July 2015



Hosted a “Go Red For You” event in honor of

American Heart Month in collaboration with

Pawnee Pride and Pawnee Nation Diabetes

Program with a total of (50) participants –

February 2015



Provided a nutritional lunch and learn for the

youth during the 2015 Pawnee Nation Spring

Break Camp in collaboration with Pawnee Pride,

Pawnee Nation Diabetes, and Pawnee Nation

Education Division with a total of (19)

participants – March 2015

2015 CHR and Health Education activities and 

outcomes are as follows:

Conducted a “Tobacco Health Talk” in collaboration with Pawnee Pride and Pawnee Nation

Diabetes Program for the students at Pawnee High

(L to R) Jaime Jestes, Jasha Lyons—Echo-Hawk,

Grant Hawkins, Sharon Swartz



Provided (853) medical appointment transports for

Page 36

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Health & Community Services Division

Community Health Representative & Health Education Programs, cont’d

School with a total of approximately (300) 

participants – April 2015



Hosted the Superhero 5K, Hawk Chief 5K, and

Zombie 5K in collaboration with Pawnee Pride 

and Pawnee Nation Diabetes Program with a total

of (290) participants in all 3 runs – June, July, and

October 2015



Hosted the annual Pawnee Nation Health Fair in

collaboration with other Division of Health and

Community Services Programs with a total of

(291) participants – July 2015



Hosted the “Passionate for Pink” breast cancer

awareness event with a total (40) employee participants – October 2015

Provided the opportunity for (3) Wellness

Program members to participate in the Tulsa Run

15K – October 2015

Hosted the fun run and walk in collaboration with

Pawnee Pride during Inter-Tribal fun day with a

total of approximately (80) participants –

November 2015

Planned and secured funding in collaboration with

Provided nutrition, physical activity, and oral and

the Pawnee Pride Program for a playground on the

body hygiene health education to summer youth

Pawnee Nation Reserve – July- December 2015

camp participants in collaboration with Pawnee The CHR and Health Education Program are also

Nation Education Division, Pawnee Nation involved with several boards, coalitions, and

Diabetes and Pawnee Pride Program to (21)

committees throughout the community and county

participants – August 2015

including: Pawnee County Salvation Army Board,



Hosted the Wellness Program Kick-Off that Pawnee County Healthy Coalition, Pawnee Public

included blood pressure, height, weight, BMI, and Schools Wellness Committee, United Community

blood sugar screenings with a total of (75) Action Emergency Food and Shelter Board, and OSU

participants – August 2015

Extension Program Advisory Committee.



Hosted a community blood drive in collaboration

The LIHEAP, CSBG, Elders, Handicap, and

with American Red Cross with a total of (10)

Emergency Assistance Programs were also

participants – September 2015

administered through the CHR/Health Education

Hosted the first annual Fall Festival in collabora- Office. These programs provide utility, housing,

tion with several Pawnee Nation Programs and medical, dental, optometry, audiology, small home

community businesses with a total of approxi- repairs and prescription assistance to eligible

mately (100+) participants – October 2015

applicants throughout the year.



2015 Fall Festival Participants

Passionate for Pink

Red

For

You

Event

2015

Superhero

Page 37

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Health & Community Services Division

Diabetes Program

“Clients qualify for the following items on a yearly

basis:

 Therapeutic footwear, up to $300

The Program partnered with Metro Medical

from Tulsa, Oklahoma, to come once a month

to Pawnee to complete foot screenings and

order the orthopedic shoes. This partnership is

very successful in getting our clients the shoes

they need to protect their feet. Any overage of

the amount offered is up to the client to cover

remaining cost.

 Prescription eyewear, up to $150



 Dentures, up to $700

 Glucometer

 Blood Pressure meter



N7 Youth Fitness Day.

Also, HE, Pawnee Pride,

and Diabetes Programs

conducted a “Tobacco

Health Talk” to the Pawnee

Middle and High students

about smoking cessation

with the “I am Not a

Replacement”

campaign

averaging three hundred

(300) students participating.

In May, the Diabetes

Program started the Pawnee

Summer Pride Program. It

lasted from May to August

Nike N7 footwear Incentive requirements:

Podiatry Exam

Eye Exam

Dental Exam

Lab Results

Dietician Visit

2 meter downloads





Assistance Given in 2015

Therapeutic footwear – sixty (60) clients

Prescription eyewear assistance – one hundred

fourteen (114) clients

Denture assistance – sixteen (16) clients

Nike N7 incentives – twenty-three (23) clients

Diabetic supplies given out – two hundred twentyeight (228) clients

Diabetic related prescriptions – two hundred six

(206) clients

Program Accomplishments



In January, the Diabetes Program, in conjunction

with the Health Education and Pawnee Pride

Programs, started a Running/Walking Club.

Throughout the year, the club has about 10-20 participants at each session held. In August, the club

was revamped into the Wellness Program offering

Boot Camp, Zumba, Health Education, Nutrition

Classes, and much more. We have around ninety

(90) individuals participating in the program at

this time.

In February, the program assisted in hosting a “Go

Red for You” and “Go Red for Women” events

which offered screenings and education for heart

health. The “Go Red for You” had fifty (50)

participants and the “Go Red for Women”

followed with forty two (42) participants.

In April, the Diabetes Program and Pawnee Pride

took sixteen (16) Native youth to the OSU Nike

and offered middle/high school youth Nike shoe

incentives for attending 2-4 times a week. The

focus of the program was physical fitness,

nutrition, and health screening. At the end of the

summer, seventy (70) youth qualified for the

incentive.

In June, the Native Youth Preventing Diabetes

NYPD” Camp was offered to the youth. Five (5)

campers went to Camp Takatoka to learn about

diabetes prevention, gain information, and receive

encouragement to prevent obesity and diabetes

later in life. A Super Hero 5K was also offered to

the community though the Pawnee Pride, CHR,

and Diabetes Programs.

Page 38

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Health & Community Services Division

Diabetes Program, cont’d



In conjunction with the July 4th events, the

include physical activity in their daily routines.

Diabetes Program was part of the Pawnee Nation

Shirts and education materials were given to all

Health Fair, Disc Golf Tournament, and held the

whom participated in the event. There were fifty

Hawk Chief 5K run. Two hundred ninety one

(50) participants who participated during the

(291) received education during the Pawnee

event.

Nation Health Fair. One hundred sixty (160)

runners/walkers participated in the Annual Hawk Throughout the Year, the Pawnee Nation Diabetes

Chief 5K this past year. These events cater to Program held education classes with the youth at the

large number of participants and are held annually Pawnee Nation After School Program. Also, the

for the community to attend.

coordinator held diabetes education classes for the

In August, the program provided nutrition, City of Pawnee First Responders, Pawnee Public

physical activity, and oral and body hygiene Schools Elementary teachers, and with the Mothers of

health education to summer youth camp partici- Preschoolers “MOPS” group at the Pawnee First

pants in collaboration with Pawnee Nation Baptist Church.

Education Division, Pawnee Nation Health

Education and Diabetes Programs to (21) The Program is also a part of the Pawnee County

participants.

Healthy Coalition, M-Power smoking cessation

In September, the Diabetes Program started the organization, Native Youth Preventing Diabetes

Oklahoma Native Initiate Heart 360 program. group, and the Pawnee Public Schools Wellness ComAlthough slow to start, it has forty (40) mittee. We strive to maintain community involveparticipants monitoring their blood pressure.

ment where ever possible.

In October, the Diabetes Program co-hosted

multiple events with the CHR and Pawnee Pride The Special Diabetes Program for Indians grant

Programs. Together, we offered a Fall Festival changed in 2015 as it went to a completive grant

and Zombie 5K with (150+) participants. We did process. The Pawnee Nation Diabetes Program

participate in the “Passionate for Pink” breast submitted their application in October and in

cancer awareness event as well as the Red Ribbon December was awarded with the grant for the

Walk with the elementary students.

upcoming year of 2016. The Program will continue

November was Diabetes Awareness Month. to offer the assistance as usual, but will have a new

Elders, employees, and clients were encouraged to focus on Physical Fitness in the upcoming year.

2015

HawkChief Run Participants

This is one of the many events where several of the programs of the Health & Community Services Division

work together towards a common goal.

Page 39

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Health & Community Services Division

Indian Child Welfare

Contact Information

Melisa Harris- ICW Coordinator

mharris@pawneenation.org

Ext. 175

Office Location

117 DHCS Building

400 Agency Road

Pawnee, OK 74058

supervisors and prosecutors from surrounding

counties. Individuals have expressed a need for more

intervention and involvement from the Pawnee Nation

and look forward to future collaborations. ICW

Coordinator has established a great working

relationship with the Tribal Court staff, Law Enforcement, and the Pawnee Nation Prosecutor.

ICW, along with Tribal Court and Law Enforcement,

The purpose of the Indian Child Welfare Program is to hosted a Christmas Party for Pawnee custody children

prevent the break-up of Indian families by providing and their foster families. Donations of gifts were

services through comprehensive counseling and generously provided by staff and their families, tribal

training programs that focus on prevention and crisis members, and the Pawnee Business Council. The

intervention. The new ICW Coordinator, Ms. Melisa donations provided gifts for (19) children. We were

Harris was hired in October. Coordinator has also able to honor our current foster parents for the

approximately 15 years of experience in the child wonderful jobs they do in taking care of Pawnee

protective services field. Five of those years were children. The event was a success and all involved

spent with the Chickasaw Nation ICW program.

expressed having a good time with the children and

families.

The ICW Coordinator has been familiarizing herself

with the current tribal, state and out of state cases If you see a need or have concerns regarding the ICW

involving Pawnee children and families. Since program and the functions of this office; please do not

November 2015, ICW Coordinator has conducted (15) hesitate to contact the ICW Coordinator. There is an

home visits to children in care of the Pawnee Nation. open door policy for thoughts, suggestions, ideas for

When requested, ICW will be assisting the Pawnee making this the best program to provide children in

Tribal Court with more tasks such as this in the future. need of care and providing support to vulnerable

The ICW Coordinator has had the opportunity to meet families in need.

various community partners, DHS workers,

Substance Abuse Program

Contact Information

Barbara Attocknie, Program Coordinator Ext. 186

battocknie@pawneenation.org

Mike Ortiz, SAP Counselor Ext. 187

ortiz.mike@pawneenation.org

Office Location

311 Maintenance Road

Pawnee, OK 74058

Zach Martinez, Fitness Center Attendant

zachm@pawneenation.org

Fitness Center Number: (918) 762-3006

L-R: Mike Ortiz, Barbara Attocknie

The Pawnee Nation Substance Abuse Program (SAP)

provides counseling services and community Abuse Program.

prevention activities for the prevention and treatment  The goal of the Pawnee Nation Substance Abuse

of alcoholism and substance abuse among the eligible

Program (SAP) is to reduce and/or eliminate the

Indian population within the service area of Pawnee.

effects of substance abuse problems among our

The service area is a thirty-five mile radius of Pawnee.

tribal members as well as our community. Another

goal is to raise awareness in the community and

The Methamphetamine and Suicide Prevention

provide resources to our clients.

Initiative (MSPI) is a subcontract to the Substance  The SAP staff continued to have weekly support

Page 40

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Health & Community Services Division

Substance Abuse Program, cont’d

group meetings on Wednesday nights at 7pm.

destructive patterns that could lead to drug use and

There were a total of (1,223) people who attended

suicide ideation-(6) people attended-March 2015.

Wednesday night meetings this year. The program  Hosted a suicide/meth cultural shawl demonstracelebrate sobriety birthdays, Mother’s & Father’s

tion class-(8) people attended-April 2015.

Day, provided client’s families with turkeys or

hams for Thanksgiving, and Christmas gifts for Another focus for SAP and MSPI is to raise

clients and their families.

awareness to youth to give them an alternative choice

 The staff transports clients to and from detox, to a healthy life style.

inpatient treatment, and court as well as provides  The After Prom Party was held in Ponca City, at

individual client counseling. Counseling topics

the YMCA on April 25, 2015. There were

included decision making, physical and emotional

approximately 150 students who attended. This is

effects of alcohol and substance abuse,

an overnight sober event, which the youth seem to

constructive ways of dealing with stress, healthy

enjoy and we will continue to help sponsor as long

relationships, budgeting, and improving selfas we have the funds.

image. The following are the breakdowns for the  Sponsored Prevention Day activities on July 2 &

above services provided:

4, which included the walk to kick off the

festivities and prizes were given out afterwards.

(57) were transported to detox;

There were (374) people participating in this

(149) were seen for counseling;

year’s walk. The horseshoe tournament was well

(112) were assessed for court or other purposed

attended with participants and their family memneeds;

bers. Eighteen (18) individuals participated and

(30) were referred to inpatient treatment and (6)

there were an additional eighty-nine (89) people

went to inpatient treatment;

involved as spectators. Items and prevention

(106) referred to co-occurring disorders and (39)

material were distributed during this time. This is

went to mental health appointments at Pawnee

to provide an alternative activity to promote

Indian Health Center or Creaks.

healthy living behavior. The annual Sober 49

contest had a good turnout. This is to show the

 The Fitness Center is one of the wellness concepts

families you can have fun at a sober “49” plus this

in the recovery process. In addition to getting fit,

is a part of Native culture. All of our activities are

this is also a very good way to reduce stress in

alcohol and drug free and we do enforce this. The

one’s life. Office hours for the Fitness Center are

contest had three teams enter. There were (200)

Monday-Friday 6am-9pm and Saturday 8am-1pm.

estimated spectators for this event.

There were a total of (5097) people who used the  Sponsored the kids’ rodeo, which was held in

Fitness Center this year.

collaboration with the Pawnee Memorial RodeoAugust 2015.

The goal of the Methamphetamine and Suicide  Sponsored the Red Ribbon Week walk in

Prevention Initiative (MSPI) was to provide resources

conjunction Pawnee Public School system on

and outreach prevention training and workshops to

October 26, 2015. We had eleven (11) Pawnee

bring a more valid approach for awareness and

tribal employees that participated in this walk. The

methods regarding Meth and Suicide. The objectives

teachers and elementary students count was

were to (1) increase the awareness and outreach of

(365).Pawnee Nation Law Enforcement, City of

youth through adults to provide community-focused

Pawnee Police, and Pawnee County Sheriff’s

responses that enhance evidence-based or practiceOffice all assisted and represented in this event.

based for meth and suicide prevention and treatment

The remainder of the Pawnee Public School

services or education programming and (2) increase

system was given promotional items with alcohol

coordinated services for communities to respond to

and drug free messages. This is a continuing event

their local meth and/or suicide crises. The grant ended

held annually in memory of a fallen DEA agent in

in August 2015; however, the inpatient and outpatient

the line of duty.

needs for these clients. The following were activities

for MSPI:

Lastly, program staff attended the following trainings

 (3) people were transported for suicide ideation as to receive CEUs: Bi-annual Oklahoma Drug and

well as several were seen for counseling.

Alcohol

Counselors

Association

Conference

 Hosted a suicide/meth health relationship class to (ODAPCA),

Compulsive Gambling Addiction

help the participants recognize potential self- Workshop (Part 1 &2), and IHS conference.

Page 41

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Health & Community Services Division

Pawnee Pride Program

Contact Information

Dana Beard, Program Coordinator

Ext. 202

dbeard@pawneenation.org



Created and implemented the Pawnee Nation

Wellness Program that includes walking/running

group, boot camp sessions, and Zumba sessions

each week with an average of (35-40) participants

each week – January –December 2015



Hosted a “Go Red For You” event in honor of

American Heart Month in collaboration with

Pawnee Nation Health Education and Diabetes

Programs with a total of (50) participants –

February 2015



Hosted a Yogurt Bar in support of National

Nutrition Month with (20) participants –March

2015



Provided a nutritional lunch and learn for the

youth during the 2015 Pawnee Nation Spring

Break Camp in collaboration with HE, Pawnee

Nation Diabetes, and Pawnee Nation Education

Division with a total of (19) participants – March

2015



Hosted Millikin University, Nightmare Doubles

Glowing, July 4th weekend two man scramble Disc

Golf tournaments with a total of (78) participants –

March, July and October 2015



Hosted Smoking Cessation facilitators training

provided by the Cherokee Nation with (6)

participants– March 2015



Conducted a “Tobacco Health Talk” in collaboration with Pawnee Nation Health Education and

Diabetes Programs for the students at Pawnee

High School with a total of approximately (300)

participants – April 2015



Pawnee Pride in collaboration with Diabetes

Program participated in the N7 Movement Field

Day hosted by OS with (16) youth participates –

April 2015

Jason Campos, Administrative Assistant

Ext. 203

jcampos@pawneenation.org

Office Location

DHCS Building

400 Agency Road

The Pawnee Nation was awarded the Partnership to

Community Health (PICH) grant from the Centers of

Disease Control (CDC) in October 2014 for. PICH is a 

three (3) year grant for Chronic Disease Prevention.

The Pawnee Pride Program supports public health by

the development of strategies to reduce chronic

diseases, promote healthier lifestyles, and reduce 

health disparities. Specifically, the work that Pawnee

Pride will focus on is better nutrition, increasing

physical activity opportunities, and smoking cessation

in the Pawnee community.

2015 Pawnee Pride activities and accomplishments 



Hosted a Meet and Greet for the Pawnee Nation

employees and Community – January 2015

Pawnee Pride in collaboration with OSU

Extension Office hosted (3) cooking classes with

a total of twenty- seven (45) participants between

classes – April, July, and October 2015

Hosted the Superhero 5K, Hawk Chief 5K, and

Zombie 5K in collaboration with Pawnee Nation

Health Education and Diabetes Programs with a

total of (290) participants in all 3 runs – June, July,

and October 2015

Provided nutrition, physical activity, and oral and

body hygiene health education to summer youth

camp participants in collaboration with Pawnee

Nation Education Division, Pawnee Nation Health

Page 42

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Health & Community Services Division

Pawnee Pride Program

Education and Diabetes

participants – August 2015



Programs

(21) Pawnee Pride has formed coalitions with Indian

Health Services, Paradox (Pawnee Pride’s evaluation

Hosted the Wellness Program Kick-Off in team), Pawnee County Healthy Coalition, Pawnee

collaboration with Pawnee Nation Health Public Schools Wellness Committee, OSU Extension

Education and Diabetes Programs that included Program Advisory Committee, Oklahoma State

blood pressure, height, weight, BMI, and blood Department of Health, Oklahoma City Area

sugar screenings with a total of (75) participants – Inter-Tribal Health Board, and local agencies to expand the reach and assist the communities in

August 2015

promoting healthy lifestyles.

Revised Physical Leave Policy to develop

Work-site Wellness Policy, which was approved

by the Pawnee Business Council- September 2015



Hosted the first annual Fall Festival in

collaboration with several Pawnee Nation

Programs and community businesses with a total

of approximately (100+) participants – October

2015



Hosted the fun run and walk in collaboration with

Pawnee Pride during Inter-Tribal fun day with a

total of approximately (80) participants –

November 2015



Planned and secured funding in collaboration with

the HE Program for a playground on the Pawnee

Nation Reserve – July- December 2015



Revised Smoking Policy to develop a Pawnee

Nation Complex Tobacco-Free Policy, which was

approved by Pawnee Business Council- December

2015

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2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Health & Community Services Division

Ti Hirasa Domestic Violence Program

Tihirasa Domestic Violence Program is a confidential support service for all victims of domestic violence,

dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, and human trafficking. We serve all of Pawnee County regardless of

age, economic status, race, religion, or education background. We prioritize Native American women and

members of the nation. Our mission is to provide prevention and awareness and increase victim safety and

offender accountability. The program provides many services including education, safety planning,

transportation to shelter or relevant appointments, court advocacy, and anonymous phone or text consultation.

We also have community events, volunteer opportunities, and legal assistance provided to women.

Program goals are: (a) to prevent incidents of domestic or dating violence, sexual assault or stalking, (b) to

increase victim safety and offender accountability, and (c) to provide shelter, supportive services, and access

to community based services for victims; to provide safety, resources, and services to victims of domestic

violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking in order to allow Native women to become selfsufficient and live a violence free life. This program continues to work with the Coordinated Community

Response (CCR) team on domestic violence protocols for law enforcement in Pawnee County. Tihirasa

Domestic Violence Program provided services to forty three new (43) clients this year; and this does not

include all previously established clients. These are just some of our program highlights.

Contact Information

Chelsie Baldwin, Program Coordinator Ext. 170

cbaldwin@pawneenation.org

Sarah Payne, Program Advocate

Office Location

301 Maintenance Road

Program Highlights:



Hosted 1st Annual Survivor Celebration Event where

survivors made blankets.

 Hosted a State-Wide “Full Faith and Credit/Protective

Order Training” for all criminal justice professionals in

Pawnee County.

 Program Advocate and a Pawnee Nation Law 

Enforcement Officer were trained as ‘trainers’ in the

Lethality Assessment Protocol, which was a new law

passed in November 2014.

 Program Coordinator was accepted and graduated at 

the top of her class from the National Tribal Trial

College and received Tribal Court Legal Advocacy

Certification through the Southwest Center for Law 

and Policy and the Department of Justice to serve

sexual assault and domestic violence victims.

 Hosted a training luncheon for Pawnee County Child

Welfare Workers (State and Tribal), which was a huge 

breakthrough in the system we work in. We

collaborated to make efforts better to assist victims

instead of getting the children removed from their

families. We successfully prevented (3) families from 

being separated for an extended time and they were all

reunited without the offenders.

 Program Coordinator was chosen to be on the Native

Alliance Against Violence Board of Directors

representing the Pawnee Nation.



Program Advocate and Pawnee EMT, Rhonda James,

received their sexual assault advocacy certification to

help victims in their healing process with sexual

assault. They are able to talk to people about where

they are in the healing process and refer them to our

Domestic Violence program.

Hosted a Six Nations and Regional Inter-Discipline

SAFESTAR Training in collaboration with Southwest

Center for Law and Policy for State, County, Federal

and Tribal entities.

Program Coordinator was asked to be the key note

speaker at the 2nd Annual Domestic Violence Day of

Unity at the State Capital.

Hosted (3) Cultural Beading Classes where participants

learned how to make beaded loom bracelets, and a

traditional healer was consulted to offer healing

sessions for over (15) clients.

Assisted in the planning and participated in the 4th

Annual Six Nations Walk Against Domestic Violence

in Ponca City. It was a great success with over 400

people in attendance.

Hosted a “Winter Give-Away” for the Pawnee Community that was a huge success. We assisted over (20)

women, (15) children, and several men and elders with

winter clothes, coats, dishes, and household items

that were needed.

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2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Health & Community Services Division

Page 45

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Health & Community Services Division

Food Distribution Program

The Food Distribution Program (FDP) is a federal Traditional foods, including blue cornmeal, were

program that provides USDA foods to low-income offered in December 2015.

households, including the elderly, and to Native

American families residing in designated areas near For 2015, program participation averaged around

reservations and in the State of Oklahoma. Our (261), which decreased from 2014. Home deliveries

service area is all of Pawnee County and the northern increased to around (15) for the year. These deliveries

part of Payne County. The program serves as an are mainly made to our elderly participants who are

alternative to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance not able to come to the office.

Program (SNAP, formerly known as the Food Stamp

Program).

Lastly, the program provides nutrition education to

our participants (cookbooks, calendar, brochures), and

The Food Distribution Program receives the monthly occasionally will have food samples for our

food shipment once a month and the produce participants to try.

shipment once a week. FDP staff continues to make

courtesy calls to our participants at least two weeks (L to R)

before the end of the month to remind them to pick up Tamra Tahkeal

their food. Food is given out over the counter with the Donna Howell

participants packing their own food. Program staff Keith Lyons

provides carts and help participants load their food Florissa Kanuho

into their vehicles. Program staff also continues to

make home deliveries to the elders, disabled, and to

those households that have no transportation.

The program provides around (100) food products for

our participants. For 2015, FDP has added fresh

lemons and frozen pork chops to the program’s list of

food. This year, the program added seasonal items of

fresh cranberries and clementines (cuties) which were

given out during November and December.

Florissa Kanuho, Program Coordinator

Donna Howell, Certification Worker

Keith Lyons, Warehouseman

Tamra Tahkeal, Warehouseman

Office Location: 810 Morris Road

Office Number: (918) 762-2541

Elderly Meals Program

The Title VI Pawnee Nation Elders Program serves 

eligible elders, spouses of elders, and caregivers by 

delivering nutritional meals to the homebound and at 

the congregate site; and provides information/support 

to non-paid caregivers of our fragile elders.

Intergenerational;

Foster Grandparent Program;

Peer Socialization; and

Enhancement to improve the quality and neurological well-being of elders (i.e. games, group

activities, self-improvement, service to the elder

community as well as the entire community,

fundraising, and special occasions).

Congregate Lunch and Salad Bar (MondayThursday): 11:30 am – 12:30 pm*

*Friday Breakfast: 9:30 am – 10:30 am. Closed

the first and third Friday of every month (unless Who is eligible? This includes spouses, individuals

holiday)

providing volunteer services during meal hours,

 Homebound Delivery: 9 am – 11:45 am

non-elderly handicapped or disabled who reside at

 Rides to Elder Center: Call office before 9:30 am. home with and accompany elderly people, or who

 If you are sick, be sure to call in to have your reside in housing facilities occupied primarily by the

meal delivered!

elderly.

 (Non-elder 59 years and younger may purchase a

$7 meal after 12:15 pm)

Serving the elders is a time-honored privilege. The

Pawnee Nation financially supports the Elder Center

Title VI staff work with volunteers in planning and program with approximately 2/3 of the total cost of

implementing activities with other tribal programs. operation. In addition our Nation’s Administration

Target activities include the following:

on Aging, Title VI programs provide federal funds



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2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Health & Community Services Division

Elderly Meals Program, cont’d

directed to tribal elders to promote the delivery of 

supportive services including nutrition services and

that such services and benefits should be provided in a

manner that preserves and restores their respective

dignity, self-respect, and cultural identities. There are

four staff persons and volunteers who provide these

services to approximately (202) elders enrolled in the 

program. Our volunteers are approved through the

Human Resources Office and are appreciated for their

services as we have the option to offer a meal during

the meal hours. Feel welcome to volunteer! We also 

utilize a network of providers from the Pawnee Nation

Division of Health & Community Services and the

Pawnee Indian Health Center to conduct homebound

intake, nutrition screening, nutrition education,

nutrition assess and counseling, if appropriate.



2015 Highlights:

In 2015, Title VI Program served 8,261 congregate

meals; 5,929 homebound meals; and provided

2,395 rides.

The Title VI Advisory Board actively met once a

month to offer direction on activities and program

suggestions. Officers were: President-Elizabeth

Blackowl; Vice-President-Patsy Cooper; Secretary

-Ann Collins; and Member-Ron Rice. The Board

had two former PBC members on it – their

guidance and advocacy reflects their love for the

Pawnee Nation.

Elders just want to have fun! We took elders to

health fairs, hockey game, WNBA basketball

game, local cultural activities, food banks, annual

food show, out of town shopping trips, and

assisted with legal documents. Visited other tribes

for holiday events, meals, and to play BINGO.

Over (40) elders participated in the Intertribal Fun

Day playing hand game and Bocce Ball. Now they

want to play Bocce Ball at the Roundhouse dirt

surface on a regular basis – we have four teams.

Vendor stated informally that out of the 150

kitchens that they supplied food to that the Pawnee

Nation Elder Center kitchen is in the top three as

being clean and following health codes.

Staff (L to R) Danielle Wheatley, Debra EchoHawk, Georgene Williams, and Jerry RIley

Contact Information

Debra Echo-Hawk, Program Coordinator

Danielle Wheatley, Head Cook

Kathryn McClellan, Assistant Cook

Jerry Riley, Support Services Specialist

Georgene Williams, Outreach Coordinator

Title VI Location

Pawnee Nation Elder Center

901 Agency Road

Pawnee Nation Elders Phone: (918) 762-4042

Visit us on Facebook: Pawnee Nation Elders

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Page 47

Division of Natural Resources and Safety (DNRS)

The Pawnee Nation Division of Natural Resources and Safety was established and implemented in 2010. It

consists of four Departments:

 Department of Environmental Conservation and Safety,

 Department of Transportation and Safety,

 Department of Fire and Rescue, and

 Department of Emergency Management.

Although each Department within the Division has its own mission and service objectives, each Department

shares many common interest and overlapping services concerning natural resources and safety. Placing these

Departments under a common Division enables direct collaboration and efficient services.

The Division of Natural Resources and Safety has continued to develop its objectives through the ongoing

collaboration among its Departments. Each Department continues to identify their objectives and achieving

their goals as resources and priorities allow. The Director is continuing to work with the DNRS Department

Managers to identify critical services, staffing, and associated funding needs.

Department of Environmental Conservation & Safety (DECS)

Mission of the Pawnee Nation Depar tment of Envir onmental Conser vation and Safety (DECS) is to

provide for a comprehensive-multimedia natural resource management service through policy development,

education, compliance assistance, and enforcement-resulting in wise stewardship and utilization of natural

resources throughout Pawnee Indian Country.

The DECS is tasked with the implementation of Title XI and XII of the Pawnee Nation Law and Order Code.

Title XI is the Pawnee Nation Environmental Conservation and Safety Code which primarily provides for the

protection of Tribal Harvest Privileges including fish, wildlife, and timber. Title XII is the Pawnee Nation

Natural Resource Protection Act which provides for the protection of water, land, and air resources. The “Act”

established Pawnee Nation’s Environmental Regulatory Commission in addition to the authority for the

development and implementation of needed protective Regulations.

The DECS services are funded primarily by USEPA and Pawnee Nation. USEPA programs include the

General Assistance Program which provides for capacity building and solid waste/hazmat response and

enforcement, CWA Section 106 which provides for water resource investigations and enforcement monitoring,

and CWA Section 319 which provides for Non-Point Source pollution assessments and management. Pawnee

Nation funds provide for activities not directly covered by Federal assistance (water rights issues, fish and

wildlife harvest issues, etc.)

Enforcement of natural resource laws and regulations are very challenging to investigate and litigate. The

environment does not recognize political boundaries. Violations of natural resource and environmental laws

and regulations often involve multiple jurisdictions. The enforcement staff of the DECS continues to work

with a network of agencies (federal, State, Tribal, and local) to acquire proper training and certifications for the

purpose of assuring the protection of human health and environment within the Pawnee Nation.

The DECS established 19 cases under the FY2015 reporting period. The following is an overview of the

nature of violation and the number of violations:

HAZMAT: 2

Timber Theft: 2

Solid Waste: 2

Un-Authorized Discharge (Pollutants): 5

Fire Trespass: 2

Fish and Wildlife Harvest: 2

Underground Injection Control: 2

Water Take: 1

Fire Arms-Unlawful Possession: 1

The DECS staff worked with the Tribal Ops Division to address ongoing Safe Drinking Water issues

concerning the compliance of the Pawnee Nation’s water wells. DECS staff met with USEPA staff and

Page 48

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Division of Natural Resources and Safety

Department of Environmental Conservation & Safety (DECS), Cont’d

Regional Administrator to acquire needed resources to

get the wells and services into compliance. The

DECS received approval of the Pawnee Nation Safe

Drinking Water Regulations and is working on

implementation.

The DECS staff drafted the proposed Pawnee Nation

Waste Water Disposal Regulations and is in the

process of finalizing for ERC review and PBC

approval.

The Pawnee Nation Rangers actively participate in

law enforcement training with the National Native

American Law Enforcement Association and with the

USDOJ’s Environment and Natural Resource

Protection Division programs, in addition to USEPAs

multimedia Inspectors training.

Monty Matlock, Chief Ranger, Director

Kelton Kersey, Ranger Coordinator

Open Position, Civil Inspector,

Environmental Health and Safety Specialist

Department of Transportation & Safety (PNDOTS)

The Pawnee Nation Department of Transportation and

Safety (PNDOTS) strives to maintain the safety and

integrity of Pawnee Nation streets, roadways and 

bridges, while continuing to plan and develop new 

strategies to insure the continued growth and

development of the Pawnee Nation transportation 

infrastructure.

PNDOTS receive Tribal Transportation Program

(TTP) funds, formerly known as Indian Reservation

Roads (IRR); for our allocations, to fund the expenses

of daily operations which include: planning, research, 

design, engineering, construction, maintenance

services, and (RIFDS) road inventory.



Authority into the Tribal Complex, coordinating

with Oklahoma DOT;

Transit policies and procedures;

Partnered with Pawnee County Sheriff on Drug&

Alcohol Awareness safety t-shirts;

Tribal Transportation Program Safety Funds

(TTPSF) grant for EMS Communications

($161,250) which provides integrated, Interoperable radio communications for emergency

responders in the Pawnee Nation jurisdiction;

Presented at the annual FHWA meeting and Tribal

Safety Champions Workshop on the TTPSF EMS

Communications grant;

Met with Secretary of State Native American Affairs

2015 Projects

of Oklahoma and Oklahoma DOT on upcoming

Indian Health Services Parking Lot Expansion;

1 Street Safety Project which is designed to Pawnee Nation, Oklahoma transportation projects and

create a safer environment for all modes of the TTPSF EMS Communications grant;

transportation from the Pawnee Nation Housing Performed routine maintenance, including snow removal.

Chris McCray

Transportation & Safety Manager

Rhonda James

Transportation & Safety Asst. Manager

Darrell Flowers

Transportation Technician Foreman

Page 49

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Division of Natural Resources and Safety

Department of Fire & Rescue

The primary mission of the Pawnee Nation  Fire Investigations

Department of the Pawnee Nation Fire and Rescue is  Fire Prevention/Station Tours for Local Schools

to protect life and property from the adverse effects of

and Community

fires, medical emergencies, or exposure to dangerous  Emergency Medical/CPR Training

conditions through fire suppression, rescue, disaster

preparedness, fire prevention and community There are approximately 6 certified firefighters. The

education.

DFR needs to acquire approx. 6 additional FFI to

assure staffing requirements.

Pawnee Nation Fire and Rescue firefighters were

dispatched to approximately 52 runs in 2015. The

dispatches include 18 Wild-land Fires, 5 Structure

Fires, 15 Vehicle Accidents/ Rescues, 6 Hazmat calls,

and 8 Medical Calls, as well as Activating the

Emergency Operations Center during severer weather

events and providing for medical assistance during

larger Pawnee nation events (Pow Wow, Tribal

events)

Other services that Pawnee Nation Fire and Rescue

provide are:

 Fire Code Enforcement

 Fire Inspections

Pat Leadingfox

Fire Chief

Open Position

Emergency Services Coordinator

Department of Emergency Management (DEM)

The primary mission of the Pawnee Nation operational support for the activation of the EOC.

Department of Emergency Management (DEM) is to The DEM

coordinated with the TERC for the

assist the Pawnee Nation and its communities for the development of the Continuity of Government (COG)

preparation, mitigating, responding to and recovering Plan which is now in place. The DEM and TERC

from an isolated emergency to that of a long term then began working with each Division to establish

recovery process following a nationally declared effective Continuity of Operations (COOP) Plans

disaster.

which are also in place.

Emergency Management is a dynamic process which The DEM works closely with the Local Emergency

has its foundation built upon both the essential Planning Committees (LEPC) in both Payne and

functions and resources of the Pawnee Nation, and the Pawnee Counties within Pawnee Indian Country.

ability of the Pawnee Nation Government effectively Activities include planning and training for responses

operate critical services while undergoing a associated with hazardous chemical spills/releases

potentially long-term recovery process. The DEM has associated with rail roads, pipelines, over the road

assisted in the development and approval of the transport, and at fixed facilities.

Pawnee Nation‘s Hazard Mitigation Plan which The Pawnee Nation did not experience any disasters

enables the Pawnee Nation the ability to implement or require any long term recovery activities in the

projects designed to minimize the impacts of disasters FY2015 reporting period. It did host and participate

as well as the preservation of life and property.

in the annual state/tribal wide “Earth Wind and Fire

The DEM has worked with the Tribal Emergency “exercise in November along with quarterly

Response Committee (TERC) over the years to Web-EOC exercises. The staff participated in both

establish the Pawnee Nation Emergency Operation Oklahoma Emergency Management/FEMA training

Center (EOC).

The EOC was developed in and annual Hot Zone training.

cooperation with the Pawnee Nation Department of Monty Matlock: Emergency Manager (Acting)

Information Technology who provides technical and

Page 50

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Division of Education

The Education Division had a busy year! The division Summit at the University of Arkansas.

began with many programs but ended with less than

half of them in tow. For many years the Tribal In August, the Education Division Director and Youth

Historic Preservation and the Museum of the Pawnee Services Coordinator attended the NINEATC 166/477

Nation has been under the direction of Education but National Conference in Durant, OK for PL 102-477

in the summer of 2015 the Cultural Resources conference and training. It was very informative and

Division came to be.

helpful for Te-Tu-Koo planning in the upcoming year.

It was a great opportunity to meet other programs in

During the first quarter the Education Division hosted the area and see what tribes are doing with their 477

the Inaugural Empowering Youth Is Me Spring Break work plans. The staff in attendance also had the

camp that was aimed at 6th – 12th grades. The camp opportunity to participate in the general assembly for

was held during the week of March 16-20 and had 22 federal regulations updates as well as training sessions

enrolled while 20 attended daily. The goal of the pertinent to their program services. Particularly Youth

Pawnee Nation “Empowering Native Youth Is Me” Services as Miss Goodson attended the JOM and

camp was to empower local tribal youth to pursue Youth Empowerment sessions, while the Education

lifestyles rich with cultural, educational, and Division Director attended OMB Circulars and 477

traditional Pawnee Nation influences. The name of the Financial Reporting.

camp is reflective of the role all those who participate

play in revitalizing/promoting culture, educational Due to the 2015 budget issues all services were

journeys and traditional Pawnee ways. The abundance limited but the 477 programs were still able to meet

of participation from the Division of Community the goals and objectives for their approved Work Plan.

Health and Community Services, the Nation’s The Education & Training Specialist was also to assist

Executive Office, Pawnee Nation College, tribal clients in job searches & helping them apply for jobs

members and elders were overwhelming. Highlights online or referring them to other departments to

were artist Bunky Echohawk creating live art and inquire about other assistance including CHR,

Nasharo Head Chief Warren Pratt Jr. emceed the Housing, SAP, and TERO.

entire event.

In the fourth quarter, Youth Services wrapped up the

The month the JOM parent committee began planning Homework Assistance After-School Program and

and collaborating with the Pawnee Public Schools began a redevelopment of the Johnson O’Malley

Title VII program to host an annual awards banquet program. The Youth Services Coordinator also

for Native students. Each program partnered to hand provided services for the Youth Supplemental Funds

out awards to deserving students who worked in their otherwise known as the school clothes program. As

classrooms. The Pawnee Nation JOM Parent the need remained steady and funds dwindled, the

Committee presented 11 Outstanding Achievement coordinator approached the budget committee to

awards to students pre-k thru 11th grade. They also request funding to continue this vital service, it was

presented 12 graduating JOM seniors with Pendleton unanimously approved!

laptop bags for their future academic endeavors.

During the month of August the Pawnee Nation had a

Youth Services Coordinator, Christina Goodson, an program review from the current program AOTR,

Otoe-Missouria Tribal member, came aboard on June Kenneth Lemieux. He visited our site from August 25

8. She quickly hit the ground running finishing up the -27 and spent time reviewing files and program

Youth Work Experience program that began with a service delivery as well as interviewing staff. At the

job fair/orientation on June 1 & 2. In the third quarter, end of the site visit he finished with an exit interview

Youth Services wrapped up the Summer Youth Work that was attended by all 477 staff, Grants & Contracts

Experience Program in July, chaperoned 5 youth to and the Executive Director. He sent a complete report

the annual Northern Oklahoma College’s Leadership to President and indicated a need for a handbook

Conference, held the annual Summer Enrichment revision and updates to our services delivery. The

Youth Camp in August, aided in school supply program was positive and productive for all those who

handout, and began this year’s Homework Assistance were involved.

After School Program. Christina also served as a

planning member for the Northern Oklahoma College Planning in the Education Division was in full swing

Leadership Conference and collaborated with the as one of the priorities was to remove all cultural

Education Division to help send 9th grade tribal resources program out from under the guidance of the

member O’sheana Aguilera to attend the Annual Ag division. In the summer a Tribal Historic Preservation

Page 51

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Division of Education

Officer was hired to finalize the stages of planning (c)(3) non-profit to write a proposal for a pilot afterand to make the Cultural Resources Division a reality. school program. GT2 will support the tribe to develop

Upon completion of the new division Education was and implement the pilot demonstration based on their

fully funded by the PL 102-477 funds and continued 2025 School™ Model. The Pawnee Nation is willing

with the following programs: Education & Training, to develop and demonstrate the K-12 After-School

Higher Education and Youth Services.

Program that can serve as a “Model” to be evaluated

by other tribes and communities in Oklahoma. The

In an effort to locate additional funding for the Youth Nation along with GT2 visited the offices of

Enhancement department the Education Director Congressman Lucas in an effort to receive support for

alongside the Planning Division, partnered with the program. Negotiations are still ongoing but with a

Global Trade and Technology (GT2), a national 501 positive and optimistic outlook!

Contact Information

Alison Black

Education Director

ablack@pawneenation.org

Christina Goodson

Youth Services Coordinator

cgoodson@pawneenation.org

Office Location

657 Harrison St

Pawnee, OK 74058

Direct Line: 918-762-3227

L to R: Alison Black and Christina Goodson

Pawnee Hoop and Pole game demonstration during the Spring Break Youth

Camp. Pictured are Steven Campos and Adrian Spottedhorsechief.

Bunky Echo-Hawk speaks to the Youth during Spring Break Youth

Camp

Page 52

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Division of Education

Youth Services

Youth Services took the lead on organizing the first fall semesters of 2015

annual College Fair held on November 18. The (18) Regularly attend

college fair was a small success with many colleges in

attendance such as Dartmouth, University of Visa Cards (Youth Supplemental Funding

Oklahoma, Institute of American Indian Arts, Program)

Southeastern State University, Bacone College, (191) cards were sent out during 2015

Pawnee Nation College, and University of Central

Oklahoma. Approximately 30 students from Pawnee Johnson O’Malley Program

and the surrounding area attended. Drawings were (151) students are registered in the Johnson O’Malley

held every hour and Mr. Ned Williams, Superinten- program.

dent of Pawnee Public Schools, spoke about the Elected new officers for the parent committee in

importance of obtaining higher education and the September

doors it can open. The division hopes to make this an Bylaws remain tabled and no education plan has been

drafted

annual event.

Parent committee raffle at the Homecoming

Youth Services encompasses the Youth Supplemental celebration and raised $44.

Funding program, the Summer Youth Work JOM/Title VII Awards Banquet

Experience (SYWEX), Johnson O’Malley (JOM), the

Homework Assistance Afterschool Program, and Summer Youth Camp

various activities that concern the youth. In 2015 the (20)students registered for the Summer Youth

department serviced over 350 students both Pawnee Enrichment Camps and attended daily

Tribal members and non-tribal members.

Summer Youth Work Experience

(18) youth workers in at 11 worksites

Afterschool Program/Homework Assistance

(31) Enrolled students grades 3-5 for the spring and

2015 Education—After School Program Participants

2015 Education—Summer youth Camp

Pawnee Nation Learning Center

The Pawnee Nation Learning Center:

 Meet income guidelines

 provides child care services for children eight

 Parent or child has CDIB

weeks of age through eight years old

 Live in service area

 currently

licensed through the Oklahoma

 Parents working or attending school

Department of Human Services as a 2-Star Child The Pawnee Nation Learning Center also accepts DHS

Care Facility.

subsidy, Private pay, and other tribal subsidies.

 works in partnership with the Child Care and

Development Fund program which operates the The Learning Center employs 9 full time teachers and

Pawnee Nation Child Care Assistance Program a part time cook in addition to the Director and

that offers child care service assistance to qualified Assistant director.

applicants.

The daily schedule for children 1 year of age and older

In order to qualify for child care assistance, the include quality learning activities that include center

following criteria must be met:

play, craft activities, circle time, reading time, outdoor

Page 53

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

play, and rest time. Lesson plans are made to focus on

learning that is developmentally appropriate to the

child’s age.

The Children participate in various activities

throughout the year.

The school age children like to ride bikes in the rear

parking lot area.

Our school age children are able to have a snack and

work on homework at the afterschool program. They

also enjoy time in the gym and outside as weather

permits.

Summer time activities include some learning time to

keep fresh the math and reading skills they have

learned during the school year.

Hunting Easter Eggs out in the cold

Bike Riding

Crazy hat day during “Read across America Week”

Finger Paint!

Water Play!

Parents were invited to eat Thanksgiving meal with their children

Page 54

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Division of Education

Employment & Training

The Employment and Training Office focused on case GED by the end of the first quarter of 2016. Also, the

management and file updates for clients. There were a clients that did not make it to the event became

total of fifty-eight active clients enrolled in the inactive within the program. After the presentation, the

Education & Training programs. To close out the year clients signed up to update their files. Updates

the division hosted “Luncheon Learn” for clients to included resume, cover letter, Individual Education

update intakes for the upcoming year. We invited the and Employment Plan, contact info, etc. Three out of

fifty-eight active clients to participate and six of the the six active clients made it to their appointments.

fifty-eight active clients attended to hear guest

speaker, Mr. Joe Hawkins Jr and to eat lunch. Mr. The Employment and Training Office assisted a

Hawkins spoke about his past employment and total of 58 people in order to eliminate certain

training experiences that led him up to his current job barriers, further their education, training, and

as TERO Compliance Officer in the TERO program. obtain gainful employment and or self-sufficiency.

Adult Education

(12) Enrolled in certificate seeking courses

Work Experience

(18) clients qualified for temporary employment

through the work experience program.

(5) gained full time employment and (2) went to

pursue Higher Education

Supportive Services

(2) people qualified for work clothing assistance

(1) person was helped with fuel reimbursements while

travelling to school.

(1) person is being helped with gaining their DL

(1) person is being helped by being reimbursed for

buying work tools.

NAHASDA Assistance

9 students were awarded in the spring of 2015 and 11

students were awarded in the fall of 2015 with

NAHASDA housing assistance for low-income Native

American students. A NAHASDA funding award

Memorandum of Understanding between the Pawnee

Nation Education Division and the Pawnee Tribal

One of these six clients is in the process of getting his Housing Authority was drafted to improve

or her GED. This client will have acquired his or her communication and efficiency in services.

Page 55

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Division of Education

Higher Education Scholarship Program

The Higher Education Scholarship Program had a 

busy year as well! The Higher Education Scholarship

Committee met 4 times this year to determine award 

amounts and recipients. They voted to fund a total of

104 applicants totaling approximately $131,000 in

awards both federal and supplemental allocated by the 

Pawnee Business Council.

Those who were not selected were notified by letter

and given the opportunity to appeal the committee’s

decision. As there had never been an appeals process

for the non-selected applicants the Education Division

Director established a new one. However, due to

limited funding only one reversal on decisions was

granted this semester. This student was able to

provide documentation the higher institution was at

fault for the loss of required documents.

Be enrolled in an accredited institution of higher

education.

Have a financial need as determined by the

eligible institution's financial aid office according

to the U.S. Department of Education's formula.

Must apply for all available financial aid.

2015 Total

Applicants

Awarded

NonAward

Undergraduates

101

Graduate

Total

Applications

104

2015 Accomplishments

In all, the Nation helped

 funded 3 students who completed their degrees

1- bachelor’s degree

2 - Associate’s degree(s)

Eligibility Requirements

Eligibility criteria for the Higher Education

Scholarship includes all of the following:

 Be a member of the Pawnee Nation of

Oklahoma. Students must provide a Certificate

Degree of Indian Blood (CDIB).

Tribal Employment Rights/Equal Employment Opportunity Office

TERO Mission Statement:

establish a skills bank of local workers, by skill level

To improve the quality of life for Pawnee Nation and experience. The TERO also provides trainings

Members through the development and assertion of and work experience to help local individuals develop

Native American Preference laws and the contracting the skills, discipline, work ethic needed to be

rights of preferential employment, business and successful. We look help to build up, motivate, and

economic opportunities within the jurisdictional help our pool of workers. We strive to get them the

boundaries of the Pawnee Nation.

tools, certifications and help needed to open more

doors of opportunity.

TERO Program:

The TERO program is partially funded by the U.S. Sponsored Training Certifications:

Department of Labor, and the Equal Opportunity  OSHA 10 Hour Construction Safety Certification

Commission (EEOC). The Pawnee Nation signed an  CPR/First Aid Certifications

MOU with the EEOC, to help enforce and protect

 Construction Zone Traffic Flagger Certification

EEOC laws, as well the Tribal TERO Ordinance

(Law). Tribal Employment Rights Office kicked off  Tribal Roads Scholar Cert., TTAP/ODOT and

Oklahoma State University

the 2015 year with a new Director and new passion to

help our Tribal community with preference in hiring,

promotion, and contracting. The first step for the new

Director was to establish operating procedures and Individual Education & Certifications (E&T):

Trade Skill Certifications, Welding etc.

Page 56

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Tribal Employment Rights/Equal Employment Opportunity Office

TERO offers financial assistance to help with 

testing certifications if funding is available.

Employment Development:

TERO offers Resume Building Help

TERO offers Cover Letter writing Help

TERO offers How to nail the Interview (do’s and

do not’s)

TERO has a computer lab to help assist in the job

application process.

Community:

 TERO helped the Pawnee Nation Day Care with

new mulch in Playground.

 TERO helped to provide fire wood to elders and

ceremony, funeral feasts.

TERO helped the college students from Illinois

while on their annual visit to Pawnee.

Financial:

TERO has the unique ability to levy fees on all

construction contracts on Tribal jurisdiction.

We also have the ability to levy fees on all

employers on Tribal jurisdiction. These funds

collected goes back to the Nation’s General

Fund. These funds off-set and provide

additional financial resources for the program

and the Nation. PNTERO program was

implemented in 1996, and has existed for 20

years. The TERO program generated over

$150,000 in TERO fee’s in 2015. The most

ever collected by the TERO program in 20

years.

(L to R) Joseph Hawkins, Steven Campos, and

Walterene Hare)

Contact Information

Steven Campos, TERO Director

scampos@pawneenation.org

Joseph Hawkins, TERO Foreman/Compliance Officers

jhawkins@pawneenation.org

Walterene Hare, TERO Admin Assist

whare@pawneenation.org

Office Location

657 Harrison St.

Pawnee, OK 74058

Direct Line: 918-762-3227

Page 57

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Division of Cultural Resources

The Cultural Resource Division started in November

2015 with the hiring of Director Herb Adson, and 

administrative assistant Marti Only A Chief. This

new division has the following departments housed

under us:

 Historic Preservation (THPO)

 Repatriation

 Culture

 Language

 Museum

Pawnee Business Council.

Pawnee THPO worked all year with requests from

different agencies for Federal Communication

Commission (FCC) compliance under section 106

of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966

(NHPA).

(L to R)

Herb Adson

and Micheal

Knife Chief

(Martha not

pictured)

Our jurisdiction includes The Pawnee Nation Reserve,

our four cemeteries, property at Chilocco, property in

Nebraska, and any properties which are “restricted” or

“held in trust” for our citizens by the federal

government.

Some of the activities and events from 2015 included,

Hosting “Empowering Youth is me” during spring

break 2015 for youth grades 6-12.

THPO Accomplishments



Andrew Knifechief was hired as THPO Director

in May and

THPO hosted cultural events, and meals during

the veterans homecoming in July

THPO assisted our education department with

their Summer Youth Camp, which was also in

July.

Andrew Knifechief, THPO Director drafted a

proposal for Cultural Resource Division during

late summer and the Division was established by

Contact Information

Herb Adson, Director, Cultural Resource Division

hadson@pawneenation.org

Marti Only A Chief, Administrative Assistant

Monlyachief@pawneenation.org

Micheal Knife Chief, THPO Officer

Office Location

657 Harrison St

Pawnee, OK 74058

Direct Line: 918-762-3227

Native American

History

Month

President Pratt reading to the kids

Princess Parade-In

(L to R) Alison Black,

Minnie Fields with Lisa

Fields, Jamie Nelson,

Tiffany Frietze, Sandra

Moore, and Elizabeth

Blackowl

Council Woman Hare

reading to the kids

Page 58

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Tribal Gaming Commission

The Pawnee Nation Gaming Commission is an agency operations room that is located at Stonewolf Casino,

established by the Pawnee Business Council. The along with the expansion.

Pawnee Nation Gaming Ordinance was enacted in Training for the surveillance staff is developing and

1999. The ordinance created the opportunity for the employees are getting more acquainted with their

Gaming Activities to be conducted on Tribal Lands positions and their equipment within the Pawnee

and created the Gaming Commission to regulate the Nation Surveillance Department. Training will be a

Gaming Activities.

main focus for the next year.

The Gaming Commission’s goal is to provide a safe Our staff provides a fair and safe gaming atmosphere

environment to offer gaming and protect the integrity by reviewing the personnel that conduct gaming

of the games offered on Nation Lands.

activities on our lands.

The Gaming Commission holds regular meetings at We license the following entities:

5:30 PM on the first and third Monday of every

Gaming Facilities

month. The meetings are open to the public. This year

the Gaming Commission held at least one meeting

Employees of Gaming Facilities

every month and had several special meetings

Employees of Vendors who provide gaming

regarding the creation and implementation of the

related services to licensed Facilities

Surveillance Department.

The Gaming Commission is funded by the assessment Fees generated from these activities help offset the

of revenues from Casino Operations on Pawnee costs of performing the required checks and

Nation Lands. This assessment is a rate that is decided references. This is a very important process when

each year and levied against the previous year’s reviewing the role of the Gaming Commission and its

Casino Operations Gross Gaming Revenue as certified functions. We are making sure that we have honest

people conducting the gaming activities and

by each annual Audit.

protecting the assets of the Nation. This is one of the

This year, the total of the assessments against Casino parts of the Commission that is reviewed periodically

Operations was $518,914.64.

by State and Federal authorities.

The Gaming Commission rendered a decision to One of our main goals this coming year will be to

initiate the creation of a surveillance department to update and revise our Ordinance and Regulations.

satisfy the requirement of StoneWolf Casino (a Working with the Pawnee Nation and the Casino

licensed facility) achieving Tier B. Movement from Operations, we want to strengthen our controls while

one tier to another can be very complex with regard to at the same time create opportunity for more

compliance. Upgrading in tier is a very noteworthy efficiency in our operations.

milestone in a facility’s reputation; tier is categorized

by revenue and upgrades mean the facility is

generating more revenue. NIGC Class II regulations

define each tier by Gross Gaming Revenue for a year.

Tier A – $3 Million to $8 Million

Tier B – $8 Million to $15 Million

Tier C – $15 Million and Over

The Surveillance Department has continued to hire

more personnel. The initial plan was to staff twelve

(12) personnel to continuously monitor the casino

operations “24/7”. This was to allow a schedule which

allowed on shift breaks and adequate days off between

shifts. As a stipulation of manned surveillance, the

operations room must be continuously staffed. There

are many equipment requirements as well. Currently,

we are meeting or exceeding these requirements set

forth in the regulatory documents. We look to

improve upon the systems in place as well as the

Page 59

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Tribal Tax Department

Program Overview

she willing gave on all the Board and Commissions

The Pawnee Nation Tax Department’s Mission that she served on during her lifetime. Everybody

could see her pride in being a Proud Pawnee tribal

Statement:

member and will miss her at all Pawnee cultural

To exercise the tribal sovereignty by advancing the events and activities that she would always be seen

Pawnee Nation tribal economies and right to self attending or participating.

determination. Promote Pawnee Nation exercising

self-sufficiency through the maintenance of a The Tax Manager- Lyle E. Fields and Tax Assistant

Cecelia Hawkins worked on the Tobacco Sale Tax

comprehensive tax base and collection of revenues.

Rebate to Pawnee Nation Trading Post and Pawnee

Nation Travel Plaza and TeePee Smoke Shop for the

months of January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2015.

Due to the Tobacco Sales Tax refund from the State of

Oklahoma comes to the tribe thirty days after end of

the month, the Pawnee Nations’ refund for the tribal

retailers is issued and received by the Pawnee Nation

the following month.

Contact Information

Lyle Fields, Tax Manager Ext. 138

lfields@pawneenation.org

Cecelia Hawkins, Tax Assistant

Office Location

490 Agency Road

Pawnee, OK 74058

Executive Summary

The Tax Manager and Tax Assistant worked with the

CEO- Pawnee Tribal Development Corporation in

establishing the Excel spreadsheet that will be utilized

in ensuring the correct amount is paid on the Tobacco

compact from the State of Oklahoma. This Excel

spreadsheet in addition calculates the amount of

rebate to the tobacco smoke shop retailers. The

amount of the rebate from the state of Oklahoma went

down in January 2015 per the Tobacco agreement.

The Tax Department receives a listing of former

tribal members who have relinquished their

membership with the Pawnee Nation. Our listing is

updated with any relinquishments after they are

formally approved by Pawnee Business Council to

avoid this from occurring in the future. There has been

an updated listing given to the Tax Department of

recent relinquishments.

The Tax Commission was re-established and Tax

Commissioners Elizabeth Blackowl was appointed by The Pawnee Nation Tax department has properly

PBC Resolution# 15-18 with term Jan 28, 2015 to Jan trained and competent personnel applying a state of

28, 2017and Kathy Daniels was appointed by PBC art tax system – Tag Pro to assist in the collection of

Resolution# 15-19 with term Jan 28, 2015 to Jan 28, taxes and licensing.

2017 and Reva Mariah ShieldChief was appointed by The Tax department staff- Lyle E. Fields and Cecelia

PBC Resolution# 15-36 with term April 22, 2015 to Hawkins have obtained the necessary training and

April 22, 2018 and Nancy Moore was appointed by requisite certifications (notary) in order to engage in

PBC Resolution# 15-41 with term April 22, 2015 to transacting Tax department business. Both personnel

April 22, 2018. It is with great regret to report that are enrolled members of the Pawnee Nation and enjoy

Elizabeth Blackowl passed away this year in 2015 and their positions with the Pawnee Nation.

will miss her dedication to the Tax Commission with

her time and efforts to ensure the betterment of her Mission/Purpose statement/Goals and Objectives

tribe in all board and commission she has served in The Pawnee Nation Tax department’s responsibility is

the past. Ms. Elizabeth Blackowl also had the to support and strengthening the Pawnee Nation by

distinction of serving as the Pawnee Nation of licensing and regulating certain conduct with the

Oklahoma’s first female Pawnee Business Council Tribal jurisdiction, to provide financing for current

President. Ms. Elizabeth Blackowl will be greatly expenses of the Pawnee Nation tribal government and

missed by all the Pawnee Nation tribal members. The to provide financing for tribal government services or

Pawnee Nation deeply appreciates her time and efforts departments. The Pawnee Nation Tax Department

Page 60

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Tribal Tax Department

provides the resources for our elected officials/ tribal E. Fields was working with the TagPro contractor

administration in meeting the needs of its tribal needs support for our vehicle tagging system to implement

or services as it identifies them.

the new rates and was finally completed and installed

The Pawnee Nation Tax department Goals and on March 8, 2016 at 4:30 pm.

Objectives are to provide revenue for the Pawnee The Pawnee Nation Tax Commissions are at this time

Nation of Oklahoma through its tribal vehicle utilizing the Pawnee Nation’s governing documents,

registration. To process the Cigarette Tax rebate to the ie. Personnel Policies, etc. at this time until they are

Pawnee Nation of Oklahoma cigarette tobacco able to complete the Pawnee Nation Tax Commission

retailers: Pawnee Nation Trading Post and Pawnee are able to update and formal accept their own updated

Nation Travel Plaza and Tee Pee Smoke Shop. The governing documents.

Pawnee Nation Tax Office processed the cigarette Other revenues on sales taxes, fees, permits, oil and

tobacco rebate the following month of sales and upon gas severance taxes was reported by the Finance

receipt from the State of Oklahoma. The Pawnee

department as their prime responsibility of the Pawnee

Nation issued tribal vehicle registrations and titles for Nation. This financial reporting information the Tax

members of the Pawnee Nation of Oklahoma. The Manager accessed with our Tag Pro system, the

Pawnee Nation received the 8% sales tax from software system in place for tribal tag issuances and

business located on Pawnee Nation of Oklahoma

renewals.

boundaries: Pawnee Nation Travel Plaza, Pawnee

Nation Trading Post, Tee Pee Smoke Shop, Howlers The 2015 Annual totals include:1107 renewals; 433

new; 55 veterans; 3 Commercial; 5 exempt; 159

BBQ. Harmon Denture Clinic.

duplicate titles; 8 lost decal; 74 liens; 43 motorcycle;

The Pawnee Nation Tax Commissioners are working 126 personalized; 17 boat; 14 farm; 0 transfers.

to update their governing documents: Revenue Act

2007, Tax Commission Fiscal policies and procedures, Revenues from the sale of the Pawnee Pendleton

Personnel policies and procedures. The Tax blankets are booked into the General Fund by the

Commissioners held on strategy planning meeting on Pawnee Nation Finance department.

Saturday, September 26, 2015 and discussed priorities Pawnee Nation Tax Office 2015 Annual Revenues:

in the updating of their governing documents.

January 1, 2015 through December 31, 2015:

Financial reporting

Tobacco Compact:

$437,818.85

2015 Tax Office Report

Less Tobacco rebate returned to tribal retailers:

The Pawnee Nation Business Council re-established

($332,257.15)

the Pawnee Nation Tax Commission with current

$ 100,665.87

members of: Elizabeth Blackowl, Kathy Daniels, Reva Vehicle Registration:

Mariah ShieldChief, Nancy Moore. The Pawnee Sales Tax:

$ 157,051.51

Nation Tax Commission will be working on updating

$ 10,734.20

the Pawnee Nation General Revenue and Tax Act. Pendleton Sales:

The Pawnee Nation Tax Commission was Merchandise Sales:

$ 5,910.54

re-established by Pawnee Business Council Special

$ 22,626.64

meeting on January 14, 2015 when they rescinded Oil & Gas:

PBC Resolution # 08-48 that did away with the Tax NSF Charge:

25.00

Commission in the year 2008. It is expected that new

$ 5,105.00

revenue resources will be reviewed/implemented for Tax Office Permits:

the Pawnee Nation and the Tax CommissionersTotal:

$ 407,680.46

Kathy Daniels, Reva Mariah ShieldChief Gover and

Future Plans

Cecelia Hawkins attended the National Intertribal Tax

Alliance Conference on September 15, 2015 to The Pawnee Nation Tax Commissioners priority plan

September 18, 2015 to be apprised of changes with will be continue to update their governing documents

tribal tax departments and new revenue sources that and review new sources of revenues that are being

tribal governments are now getting or in the process of collected by other tribes in tribal jurisdictions. The

developing regulations to be able to collect or other Tax Commissioners and Tax Manager plan to attend

tribes charge for excise tax, etc.

United Indian Nations of Oklahoma, Kansas Quarterly

The Pawnee Nation Tax Commission met in their meeting and maintain their memberships with

This body has been keeping their

monthly meeting on Monday, February 8, 2016 and UINOKT.

raised their rate for tribal tags. The Tax Manager- Lyle membership apprised due to the Citizen Potawatomi

Page 61

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Tribal Tax Department

tribe has been dealing issues related to local and state (UINOKT) quarterly meetings related to Tribal tax

governments attempts to tax tribal governments governments and issues that have been developing

businesses on tribal land primarily Citizen Potawatomi with their tribal offices or matters that are affecting

dealing with it and potentially Comanche Nation have tribal sovereignty. Other tribes have been sharing tax

been followed by the UNIOKT body and updated with issues arisen within their tribal jurisdiction. Although

this ongoing attempt to attack tribal government tribes vary in their business, resources and land base

sovereignty. The local and state government has been available to their tribe. The trip reports are shared in

utilizing different tactic to force the Citizen the 2015 Quarterly reports for the Pawnee Nation Tax

Potawatomi tribe in collecting taxes for them on sales office and the major changes or concerns that are

to non-tribal members at their local business and impacting tribal governments taxing authority/

grocery store that resides on their jurisdictional land. sovereignty.

The UINOKT body deals with issues that are currently Kathy Daniels, Reva Mariah ShieldChief Gover and

taking place or arising in Indian Country. These was

Cecelia Hawkins attended the National Intertribal Tax

discussion related to tribal government vehicle tag Alliance Conference on September 15, 2015 to

revenues being reviewed and potentially pursued as a September 18, 2015 to be apprised of changes with

revenue source for the state of Oklahoma, not good for tribal tax departments and new revenue sources that

tribal governments under current State of Oklahoma tribal governments are now getting or in the process of

Governor- Mary Fallin. A large portion of Cigarette developing regulations to be able to collect or other

Revenues is now going to the State of Oklahoma due

tribes charge for excise tax, etc. The Tax

to numerous tribal government compacts recently Commissioners are looking at new revenue source for

expired. Numerous tribal governments’ tobacco tribes at this time, in which other tribes are requiring

compacts and had to be renewed.

vendors permits for any business that sells

Travel and Training

merchandise to businesses that operate/reside on their

Travel. The Pawnee Nation Tax Manager- Lyle E. tribal jurisdiction, examples of these vendors now

Fields and the Tax Commissioners attended United being required to have permits are coffee vendors/food

Indian Nations of Oklahoma, Kansas and Texas suppliers, etc.

Pawnee Nation Pendleton Blankets—Available from Pawnee Tax Office

Page 62

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Tribal Development Corporation

Pawnee Tribal Development Joint meetings were held in April and October

Corporation (PTDC) experi- between the PTDC Board of Directors and the Pawnee

enced an unprecedented year Nation Business Council. The goal of the meetings

of growth in 2015, including was to create an environment to encourage

tribal revenue share, business communication between tribal and business leadership

diversification and subsequent growth in employment on new developments and an exchange of ideas in

opportunities. PTDC anticipates this growth trend to order to create an environment of synchronicity.

continue as the management team is strategically

focused on the development of long-term programs PawneeTDC.com, the new corporate website was

and initiatives. More importantly, the success that has launched in April. With the corporation on the cusp of

been achieved by PTDC would not be possible with- so much growth toward the end of 2015, the website

out the exceptional efforts and display of customer will serve as an on-going source of information

service from the entire staff of 160 employees.

regarding the exciting new developments and job

opportunities taking place within the corporation

This has also been a year of improved year in Tribal Revenue Share

corporate/tribal communication efforts. In August, the Pawnee Tribal Development Corporation’s overall

PTDC Board of Directors, along with the PTDC revenue has continued to trend upward, resulting in a

Corporate Staff hosted a public meeting. positive growth trend in total payments to the Pawnee

Representatives of the Business Council, tribal Nation. The total payments to the Pawnee Nation have

members, even local community leaders were in increased from $1,240,835 in 2012 to $2,167,201 in

attendance including the Mayor of Pawnee and the 2015. During this time PTDC has also dramatically

Chamber Manager. In efforts to communicate decreased its liability section of the corporate balance

corporate transparency, departmental progress, and sheet.

future developments, PTDC is looking forward to

continue holding this meeting every year.

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Page 63

Tribal Development Corporation

Corporate Business Portfolio Growth

PTDC has explored multiple business diversification to Pawnee Nation.

opportunities and is continually looking at alternate

ways to expand its business footprint. Possibilities that Pani Star Designs – (screen printing business) –

were considered but not pursued included a dialysis PTDC has been researching the screen-printing

center, commercial refrigeration manufacturing, and business for several years now. In the winter of 2015

pest control. Following are the areas of growth the PTDC board decided to create its own screen

opportunities that the PTDC board of directors printing operation. The building that was purchased in

decided to pursue last year:

early 2015 (behind Snak-N-Pak) will facilitate the

production shop of the t-shirts. The upstairs portion of

Snak-N-Pak/BJ’s Quickstop – PTDC began working this building has been renovated and cleaned up. The

on the possibility of purchasing Snak-N-Pak and BJ’s back upstairs portion will consist of the t-shirt printing

in late 2014. The PTDC board voted to purchase the warehouse. Equipment has been purchased and

two convenient stores in early 2015. PTDC took installed and PTDC is in the process of recruiting and

possession of the two businesses in April of 2015. training several new employees to print the shirts.

This purchase added 14 full/part time job PTDC has an immediate need in printing with its

opportunities to the total employment at PTDC. The current business portfolio will become it’s customer

jobs with this business acquisition do not require a by printing shirts for the casinos and retail sites. This

gaming license which has allowed PTDC to add more print shop facility will not have an immediate retail

non-gaming related employment opportunities. The site but PTDC plans to market shirts at its existing

purchase of SNP & BJ’s gave PTDC 100% of the fuel business retail sites.

market share in the City of Pawnee and also gives

Pawnee Tribal Development Corporation visible StoneWolf Expansion – PTDC began the initial talks

presence in the Pawnee Community. A face lift is of a large casino expansion in 2014. At the beginning

planned for SNP in the near future. SNP and BJ’s will of 2015 PTDC began the process of developing a

be renamed and rebranded to better reflect its Pawnee master plan for the StoneWolf Casino site along with

Nation ownership.

the 20 acres that was purchased on the north adjacent

side of the StoneWolf property. In the beginning it

Construction Diversification – PTDC began working appeared that PTDC was going to be able to

on the majority share interest purchase of ELOHI, accomplish a full build and development of the master

LLC in the second quarter of 2015. After several plan. After multiple bank denials and several long

months of negotiations and going through the legal drawn out processes with other potential lenders, it

process, PTDC completed the majority share was discovered that the master plan would have to be

membership purchase of this construction LLC in developed on a phase type build. The full build out

January of 2016. This purchase further diversifies approach was denied because of several reasons

PTDC’s business portfolio outside of gaming. shared by the lenders. PTDC also has a limited capital

ELOHI, LLC, a native-owned construction injection for a project of this size and the project is

management company that has been in operation since viewed to have limited real estate collateral value due

2011. Previous owner, Christopher Michael Henson to the trust land status. Casino projects are classified

held 100% ownership. While he will retain a minority in the higher risk loan category and the lending

share and a management role, Pawnee Tribal underwriters analyze the casino’s historical data

Development Corporation purchased a majority share versus historical plus expanded future cash

of the business. Mr. Henson possesses a unique flow. PTDC was able to secure financing from Bank

military construction management background that of Oklahoma. Management anticipates that the first

will open many opportunities for this now tribally- phase of the StoneWolf Casino expansion will began

owned entity. The name ELOHI is a Cherokee word in the spring of 2016.

that means “mother earth”. The company will be

rebranded, both its name and logo, to reflect its Phase one – The first phase of the StoneWolf Casino

ownership by the Pawnee Tribal Development expansion will consist of an add-on to the southeast

Corporation. The newly purchased construction com- corner of the StoneWolf Casino. The plan is to

pany will focus on creating a diverse construction increase the slot count by approximately 150 slot

portfolio with an emphasis on government contracting machines and six table games. There will be a back of

and growth in Indian Country. This business will house addition behind the existing Travel Plaza which

help accomplish two of PTDC’s main goals, provide will give management some much needed office

employment opportunities as well as net revenue back space, a new conference room, an information

Page 64

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Tribal Development Corporation

Corporate Business Portfolio Growth, cont’d

technology area and an improved back of house location and there will be some renovations completed

facility for manned surveillance. There will also be on it as well.

renovations to the existing casino building with

increasing the size of the restroom area, renovations to PTDC is in the process of getting the 20 acres north of

the bar and a twenty seat addition to Howlers Famous the StoneWolf site put in to trust with the federal

BBQ. The plan currently calls for moving the gas fuel government. The land being put into trust will

canopy west to accommodate a better traffic routing. tremendously benefit the Pawnee Nation in the future

by earning taxes from the commerce that takes place

The StoneWolf Travel Plaza will remain in its existing on the 20 acres property.

Marketing

Corporate marketing interacts with people at every

aspect of the PTDC businesses, from employees to

top-level management to customers and vendors.

Through successful execution in the various areas

of corporate marketing (see chart below), the

corporation achieved a growth in revenue from

2012 to 2015 by 26.49% and an increase in gaming

revenue of 22.57%. While experiencing continuous

revenue growth, this has also been achieved in the

midst of eliminating the expense of a contracted

advertising agency, which has allowed the PTDC

marketing department to fully function as an

internal agency for the corporation. This decision

contributed to an annual savings of more than

$150,000 for the corporation.

which should integrate the logo -- communicate the

brand.

 In the past year, the Trading Post Casino had

Brand & Logo Development

undergone minor updates on the interior of the

Brand development is the practice of creating a name,

facility, including new games. The Trading Post

symbol or design that identifies and differentiates a

Casino logo was nearly a decade old and in

business. The foundation of a brand is the logo. The

desperate need of an update too. A more modern

website, packaging and promotional materials -- all of

2015 Annual Report of the Pawnee Nation

Page 65

Tribal Development Corporation



take on the Trading Post Casino logo was Casino, which includes: soccer signage, football

introduced in April.

program ads and Homecoming Tailgate party display,

In a process that began in 2015, the name Pani Men’s and Women’s basketball, and Wrestling instant

Star Designs was chosen for the new replay ads.

screen-printing company and the development of

October - April:

StoneWolf Casino ‘Turnpike Rivalry’

the logo is nearly complete.

Cup- Tulsa Oilers v. Wichita Thunder

The recently purchased construction company is

February:

PTDC Advertising Sponsorship at

currently in the process of being rebranded to

NCAIED’s RES Conference

reflect the majority Pawnee tribal ownership.

Casino Promotions

March:

In 2015, a promotional strategy to drive more play by

promotion participation at all three PTDC casinos was

successfully implemented. The strategy utilized the

“global” feature in our patron management system. By

making customer play and ticketing inclusive of all

three PTDC casinos, this allowed for much larger

scale promotions. In addition to the buzz created

around the promotional prizes, the customers were May:

able to play at any of the three facilities to participate

in promotions, which in turn drove even more play.

Events & Advertising Sponsorships

June:

PTDC businesses are an active part of events and

advertising sponsorships in their respective target

market communities. Events and advertising sponsor- July:

ships give front-of-mind brand recognition to PTDC

businesses.

PTDC Advertising Sponsorship at

NIGA’s Wendell Chino Banquet

OSU Men’s Basketball v. TCU –

concourse display (3/4)

Pawnee Nation Night at the Tulsa

Oilers (3/13)

Howler’s Famous BBQ at the ‘Taste

of Stillwater’ Event (3/24)

StoneWolf Casino ‘Women’s Night

Out’ Tradeshow (3/26)

OSU Staff Celebration Day (5/21)

Stillwater Chamber ‘Young

Professionals’ hosted by StoneWolf &

Howler’s (5/21)

All-Star Game (5/29)

Stillwater Chamber “Business After

Hours’ hosted by StoneWolf &

Howler’s (6/16)

Pawnee Indian Veterans Homecoming

(7/2 - 7/5)

Oil Patch Festival (7/4)

Cushing Community Rodeo (7/107/11)

Old Time Saturday Night (8/1)

Pawnee Bill Memorial Rodeo (8/6 –

8/8)

Pawnee Nation ‘Chaticks si Chaticks’

Rodeo (9/4 - 9/5)

The Pawnee Nation ‘Chaticks si Chaticks’ Rodeo

event and the Cowboy Country 105.5 studio August:

sponsorship with Stillwater Radio are two examples.

The marketing department, along with a September:

representative committee from the Board of Directors

spearheaded the Pawnee Nation ‘Chaticks si Chaticks’

Rodeo which was held in September during Labor Employment Growth

Day weekend.

Extensive efforts have been placed toward the practice

of tribal preference in hiring and promotions, as

The KGFY Cowboy Country 105.5 studio illustrated in the included charts. Through numerous

sponsorship by StoneWolf Casino was negotiated in discussions amongst the HR team and the Director of

January and introduced in February. The sponsorship Tribal Employment Rights, areas for improving the

has been a powerful branding opportunity for Stone- current documentation and hiring practices have been

Wolf Casino keeping the name on the forefront of identified. As a result, a consistent increase has been

listener’s minds. The opening billboard for the popu- seen in total employment throughout PTDC, as well

lar Stillwater radio station reads, “From the Sto

This text is long and has been trimmed here. Open the source document for the complete record.

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