Nemîshâtênemo êhthâkîwiyâni (2024)
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SAC and FOX NEWS
Nemîshâtênemo êhthâkîwiyâni
Phone: 918-968-3526 • 920963 S. Hwy. 99, Bldg. A • Stroud, OK 74079 • Vol. 46 • No. 6 • June 2024
Library and Cultural Center Judge Greg Bigler is Guest Speaker
Host Annual ‘Open House’ At 31st ‘Victory Day’ Celebration
Sauk Language Dept. Staff Member Houston Stevens holds
one of the commemorative T-shirts given to those attending
the annual ‘Open House’ hosted April 23, 2024 by the Sac
and Fox National Public Library and Cultural Center. The festivities included games, the availability of various educational
library and language materials, door prizes and a baked potato bar with all the fixings.
(All Photos by Mike Brown)
by Mike Brown
May 17, 2024 marked the
31st anniversary of the 1993
unanimous U. S. Supreme Court
decision that upheld the Sac and
Fox Nation’s power to impose
and collect motor vehicle registration taxes and invalidated an
unlawful Oklahoma state tax on
certain Indian properties: motor
vehicles and income.
The Sac and Fox Nation celebrates May 17 of each year as
a national holiday and ‘Victory
Day’ in the Sac and Fox Indian Country. On May 16, 2024
Judge Greg Bigler, who was a
member of the three-member
legal team that won the argument before the U. S. Supreme
Court in 1993, was guest speaker at a luncheon held in the Sac
and Fox Community Bldg. The
meal was catered by staff from
the Black Hawk Casino and Sac
and Fox Casino, and attended by
employees of the Sac and Fox
Nation.
Judge Bigler remembered
the other members of the legal
team, the late attorneys G. William “Bill” Rice and Truman A.
Carter. In 1993, Rice served as
Sac and Fox Attorney General,
and Carter served as Sac and
Fox Treasurer. Rice, who served
as counsel for the Sac and Fox
Nation, argued the federal lawsuit before the Supreme Court.
Judge Bigler said tribal car tags
in Oklahoma are “all because of
the dedicated Sac and Fox leadership with a vision.”
He presented a brief history
of the significant events prior to
the establishment of tribal courts
and the Supreme Court victory.
“The victory was a statement
of sovereignty, but those battles
continue today,” stated Judge
Bigler.
Second Chief Audrey Rose Lee,
Secretary Lana Butler and Business Committee Member Robert Williamson presented Judge
Bigler a blanket with the likeness of the late world-famous
athlete Jim Thorpe in appreciation of Judge Bigler’s guest appearance.
Pictured from left are: Second Chief Audrey Rose Lee, Business Committee Member Robert Williamson, Judge Greg
Bigler and Secretary Lana Butler.
(Photos by Mike Brown)
The Late Jim Thorpe Awarded
‘Presidential Medal of Freedom’
Sauk Language Dept. Director Katie Thompson and Language Educator Eddie Fullbright are pictured conducting quiz
games with prizes in the Sac and Fox National Cultural Center during the Open House festivities.
On May 3, 2024, the late legendary world-famous athlete
and Sac and Fox tribal member
Jim Thorpe was among nineteen recipients of the ‘Presidential Medal of Freedom,’ as
announced by President Joe
Biden.
The Presidential Medal of
Freedom is the Nation’s highest
civilian honor, presented to individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the
United States, world peace, or
other significant societal, public
or private endeavors.
President
Biden
stated,
“There is nothing beyond our
capacity when we act together.
These nineteen Americans built
teams, coalitions, movements,
organizations, and businesses that shaped America for the
better. They are the pinnacle of
leadership in their fields. They
consistently demonstrated over
their careers the power of community, hard work, and service.”
James Francis Thorpe (d.
1953) was the first Native Amer(Continued on Page 9)
Jim Thorpe
Chief Randle Carter’s Address to the Nation
Sauk Language Dept. Director Katie Thompson, left, discusses various educational materials and other items made available to everyone attending the Open House.
Those attending the April 23 Open House enjoyed a potato
bar for lunch set up in the Sac and Fox National Public Library
by Staff Member Karen Rice and others.
This is my official notice to
call for the following Special
Business Committee and Governing Council Meeting dates.
The meeting dates may be subject to change if unforeseen circumstances arise.
• I hereby call for the Annual
Governing Council Meeting according to Article VIII – Meetings, Section 1, of the Sac and
Fox Nation Constitution, to be
set for Saturday, August 31,
2024, at 10:00 o’clock a.m.
• I hereby call for a Special
Revenue Allocation Plan (RAP)
Governing Council, according
to Article VIII – Meetings, Section 2(a) of the Sac and Fox Nation Constitution, to be set for
Saturday, November 9, 2024,
at 10:00 o’clock a.m.
• According to Article VIII
– Meetings, Section 3(a) of the
Sac and Fox Nation Constitution, I hereby call a Special
Business Committee Meeting
for Wednesday, May 29, 2024,
at 9:00 o’clock a.m.
• According to Article VIII
– Meetings, Section 3(a) of the
Sac and Fox Nation Constitution, I hereby call a Special
Business Committee Meeting
for Monday, June 10, 2024, at
9:00 o’clock a.m.
• According to Article VIII
– Meetings, Section 3(a) of the
Sac and Fox Nation Consti-
tution, I hereby call a Special
Business Committee Meeting
for Tuesday, July 2, 2024, at
9:00 o’clock a.m.
• According to Article VIII
– Meetings, Section 3(a) of the
Sac and Fox Nation Constitution, I hereby call a Special
Business Committee Meeting
for Tuesday, July 30, 2024, at
9:00 o’clock a.m.
• According to Article VIII
– Meetings, Section 3(a) of the
Sac and Fox Nation Constitution, I hereby call a Special
Business Committee Meeting
for Tuesday, August 13, 2024,
at 9:00 o’clock a.m.
• According to Article VIII
– Meetings, Section 3(a) of the
Sac and Fox Nation Constitution, I hereby call a Special
Business Committee Meeting
for Tuesday, September 10,
2024, at 9:00 o’clock a.m.
• According to Article VIII
– Meetings, Section 3(a) of the
Sac and Fox Nation Constitution, I hereby call a Special
Business Committee Meeting
for Tuesday, October 8, 2024,
at 9:00 o’clock a.m.
• According to Article VIII
– Meetings, Section 3(a) of the
Sac and Fox Nation Constitution, I hereby call a Special
Business Committee Meeting
for Tuesday, October 29, 2024,
at 9:00 o’clock a.m.
• According to Article VIII
– Meetings, Section 3(a) of the
Sac and Fox Nation Constitution, I hereby call a Special
Business Committee Meeting
for Tuesday, November 12,
2024, at 9:00 o’clock a.m.
• According to Article VIII
– Meetings, Section 3(a) of the
Sac and Fox Nation Constitution, I hereby call a Special
Business Committee Meeting
for Tuesday, December 10,
2024, at 9:00 o’clock a.m.
Thank you,
Randle Carter
Principal Chief
Sac and Fox Nation
Chief Randle Carter
Page 2 - Sac and Fox News - June 2024
Sac and Fox News
The Sac & Fox News is the monthly
publication of the Sac & Fox Nation,
located on SH 99, six miles south of
Stroud, OK.
Mailing address:
Sac and Fox Nation
Administration Building
920963 S Hwy 99 Bldg A
Stroud, OK 74079
Phone: 918-968-3526
Fax: 918-968-4837
The Sac & Fox News is the official
publication of the Sac and Fox
Nation. Our mission is to meet all
tribal members information needs
concerning the Nation.
The Sac & Fox News is mailed free,
one per address, to enrolled Sac and
Fox tribal members. Paid subscriptions
are available for $12.00 annually.
Editorial statements, guest columns,
and letters to the editor published in
this newspaper contain the opinions
of the writers. These opinions do not
necessarily reflect the opinions of
the Sac and Fox News staff or any
elected official or department of tribal
government or administration.
The Sac and Fox News reserves the
right to refuse publication of letters to
the editor. All editorials and letters to
the editor become the property of the
Sac and Fox News.
Submissions for publication must
be signed by the author and include
an address and contact phone number.
They are limited to 300 words. The
staff will not edit editorials or letters
to the editor to fit the 300-word limit.
Deadline for the July issue is:
Thursday, June 20 at 4:30 p.m.
Reprint permission is granted, with
proper credit to the Sac and Fox News,
unless other copyrights are shown.
Articles and letters may be submitted
to the newspaper either by mail or Fax
to the address provided above, - or by
e-mail:newspaper@sacandfoxnationnsn.gov.
Address corrections and changes are
accepted by the Business Committee
at the address listed below.
Managing Editor
Mike Brown
For information:
918-968-3526 x1060
newspaper@sacandfoxnation-nsn.gov
Publisher: Sac and Fox Nation
~~~~~~~
Tribal Officers:
918-968-3526 or 800-259-3970
Principal Chief:
Randle Carter
Telephone (918) 968-3526
Ext. 1008
chief@sacandfoxnation-nsn.gov
principalchief@sacandfox.com
Second Chief:
Audrey Rose Lee
Telephone (918) 968-3526
Ext. 1004
secondchief@sacandfoxnation-nsn.gov
secondchief@sacandfox.com
Secretary:
Lana Butler
Telephone (918) 968-3526
Ext. 1007
secretary@sacandfoxnation-nsn.gov
Treasurer:
Carla Wallace
Telephone (918) 968-3526
Ext. 1006
treasurer@sacandfoxnation-nsn.gov
Committee Member:
Robert Williamson
Telephone (918) 968-3526
Ext. 1005
cmember@sacandfoxnation-nsn.gov
Executive Assistant:
Kelsey Byrd
Kelsey.Byrd@sacandfoxnation-nsn.gov
Business Committee
Mailing Address:
Sac and Fox Nation
920963 S Hwy 99 Bldg A
Stroud, OK 74079
Visit us on the webb @
sacandfoxnation.com
Obituaries
Shawnee, Okla. resident Patricia Lee
Ward, 78, passed away Sunday, April 21,
2024 at her home. Memorial services
were held April 27, 2024 at Sallateeska
Baptist Church in Shawnee with Bro.
Richard Ernest
Schrum Jr.
Richard Ernest Schrum Jr, 45, cherished son, brother, uncle, and friend,
passed away on April 23, 2024, in Bixby,
Okla. Richard’s vibrant spirit and determination leave a legacy of unconditional
love and perseverance.
Richard was born on July 20, 1978,
in Claremore, Okla., to Richard Schrum
Sr and Marcella Allen. After graduating
from Thunderbird Youth Academy in
Pryor, Oklahoma, Richard served three
years in the US Army. Richard then became a licensed master plumber and was
known as a very skilled and talented man.
Richard loved those around him with
his whole heart. Especially his four
sisters and their spouses, Barbara and
Larry Shope, Janet and Wayne Moore,
Lisa Schrum, Jared Hinton, and Rhonda Schrum, whom he loved without fail.
Richard was the baby brother and was
not only a momma’s boy but was his father’s best friend. Richard’s love extended wide – to his cat, McGruff, fishing,
remodeling his home, his car, and his
passion for shoes, hats, and sunglasses.
Richard was an avid St Louis Cardinals
fan who loved watching the games with
his friends and family.
Richard was overjoyed when he spent
time with his nieces and nephews: William, Jerry, April, Krystalyn, Wesley,
Andrea, Jenna, James, Joshua, Jacob,
Breanna, Katelyn, and Austin. Richard
was proud of his great-nieces and nephews. One of which was named after him,
Richard Harris.
Richard effortlessly earned the reputation as a jokester, a true friend, a hard
worker, and above all, a son, brother, and
uncle that we were blessed to call ours.
His selfless spirit, kindness, sense of humor, and awkward hugs will be missed
by all who knew him.
Richard is survived by the family
mentioned above, his beloved friends,
and co-workers. Though deeply mourned, Richard’s passing reunites him with
his mother, Marcella, his father, Richard Sr, his brother-in-law, Jared, and his
niece, Kaylea.
Obituaries Continued
On Page 5
Business Committee Meeting
Minutes are
accessible on the Website
sacandfoxnation-nsn.gov
Patricia Lee Ward
Phil Thompson officiating.
Patricia was born July 20, 1945 in
Concho, Okla. to Freeland Wood Sr.
and Lorena (Mack) Wood. She attended
North Rock Creek and Shawnee High
School.
Patricia worked most of her life as a
hairdresser. She was a member of the
Sac and Fox Nation where she had been
a former Elder of the Year and a member
of Liberty Baptist Church. She was an
avid OSU fan and enjoyed watching the
Lonesome Dove series. She enjoyed attending Pow Wow’s and hosting family
gatherings. Her family is going to miss
all the wonderful food she would make
them.
She was preceded in death parents,
brothers: Freeland “Woody” Wood Jr.,
Eddie Wood, Bob Wood, Jim Wood, Edgar Wood, and H.D. Wood, sisters: Billy
Jo Wood, Betty Hernandez and Wanda
Sue Tiger.
Survivors include her son Steven Ward
and his companion Nicole Reed, a stepson, Brock Ward, nieces and nephews,
Patrick, Colleen, Jimmie, Robin, Tony,
Channa, Darla, Jennifer, Freeland, Christi, Edward, Michael, Lorena, and Stephanie, as well as numerous other family
members and friends.
Patricia Lee Ward
Happy June Birthday Elders!
Abney, Sharon Kay
Ahgoom, Ronald Wayne
Alexander, Edmond Jacob Jr.
Alexander, Erin Casey
Allen, Viola Kay
Britt, Mary Sue
Brown, Stewart Matthew
Bushyhead, David Wade
Coombs, Diane Elizabeth
Delaware, Rodney Keith
Eldredge, Larry Ernest
Ellis, Linda Sue
Franklin, Carole Ann
Franklin, Martin Edward
Franklin, Todd Andrew
Galloway, Ronald Lee
Garcia, Juan Gilberto III
Garrison, Shirley Jean
Goodeagle, Ronald Charles Jr.
Grant, Lisa Renee
Grass, Michael Lynn
Grass, William Lloyd
Gray, John David
Hale, Angela Dawn
Hilligoss, Ramona Ann
Hocker, David D
Hodgens, Gary Wayne
Hodgens, Paul Ray
Holly, Jacqueline Allene
Horton, Dawn Hawkins
Hoskins, James Evans
Hutchens, Brenda June
Johnson, Ramona Marie
Lack, Murna Lee
Lane, Charlotte Estelle
Long, Becky Marie
Long, Lamont L
Longshore, Roy Dale
Lovelady, Pearl Darlene
Macy, Lisa Louise
Malone, Colin Sean
Mascorro, David Jon
McAllister, Sharron
McDonald, Christine
Nelson, John Wallace
Pawling, Richard Leroy Jr.
Perry, Allyson Beth
Preston, Roseanna Frances
Ramseyer, Phyllis Ruth
Rhodd, Connie Paulette
Rivas, Daniel Jr.
Roubidoux, Linus
Saulsberry, Clyde
Smith, Deborah Lou
Springer, Peggy Melody
Tate, Sherri Leigh
Tipton, Bobbe Ann
Trammell, Frederick Allen
Trammell, Michael Steven
Vigo, Lori Lynn
Wachter, Deborah Diane
Wakolee, Angela Sue
Wallace, Charles William
Wallace, Cheryl Denise
Wapskineh, Verna Lavene
Ward, Larry James
Williams, Phyllis Marie
Wilson, Alphues Christjohn Jr.
Wilson, Oresa June
Wolftongue, Elizabeth June
Yarbrough, Basil R
York, David Paul
Page 3 - Sac and Fox News - June 2024
Victims of Crime Division Observes ‘Denim Day’ and Sexual Assault Awareness Month
by Mike Brown
The Sac and Fox Nation Judicial Office’s Division for Victims of Crime observed Sexual Assault Awareness Month
in April with two events. On April 22,
2024, the annual Sexual Assault Awareness Day was held in the Sac and Fox
Nation Justice Center Lobby. Educational materials and T-shirts were available
by staff members to tribal members, employees and members of the general pub-
Like Us on Facebook!
Sac and Fox Nation
Sac and Fox Casino
Sac and Fox Language Program
Sac and Fox Dept. of Human Services
Sac and Fox National Public Library
lic who stopped by the courthouse lobby.
In addition, ‘Denim Day,’ established
in 1999, was observed on April 24, 2024.
The Denim Day campaign was established by the ‘Peace Over Violence’ organization to provide opportunity to practice solidarity and support of survivors
by exposing harmful behaviors and attitudes surrounding sexual violence. The
Sac and Fox Nation Business Committee
gave approval for employees to wear
blue jeans in observation of Denim Day.
Statistics reflect that an American is
sexually assaulted every 68 seconds.
One out of every 6 American women has
been the victim of an attempted or completed rape in her lifetime.
The majority of sexual assault victims
are under the age of 30. Native American
women are at the greatest risk of sexual
violence. Statistics indicate American
Indians are twice as likely to experience
a rape/sexual assault compared to all races.
Sac and Fox Nation Judicial Office Division for Victims of Crime staff members distributed T-shirts and educational materials on April 22 in observance
of ‘Sexual Assault Awareness Day.’
(Photo Provided)
Page 4 - Sac and Fox News - June 2024
Sac and Fox Nation Education Department News
Hello Tribal Members
The Education Department is planning the ‘Kids Fun Day’ on July 12,
2024, Friday during the Annual Sac and
Fox Nation Pow-Wow. Watch for the flier!
REMINDERS:
• Higher Education RAP and DOI
Applications are due JUNE 30, 2024!!!
Application must be complete with all
necessary signatures from the college or
university.
• RAP CLOTHING/SCHOOL SUPPLY APPLICATION: We will start accepting applications on JULY 1, 2024,
FOR SCHOOL YEAR 2024 – 2025!!
Application must be sign by the school
and a copy of the student Sac and Fox
Tribal Membership Card must be sent
with application.
• The Education Department has revised the RAP CLOTHING/SCHOOL
SUPPLY APPLICATION AND WILL
BE ON THE WEBSITE.
• We will no longer be accepting applications THROUGH EMAIL, SCAN,
FAX OR TEXT. RAP CLOTHING/
SCHOOL SUPPLY APPLICATION
MUST BE SENT IN REGULAR MAIL.
List of some of the Education Department meetings that we attended:
APRIL
• 22nd - I attended the Choctaw Nicoma Park ESSA Consultation; Justin attended the Pleasant Grove federal program meeting in Shawnee.
• 23rd - We had an ESSA Consultation
with Shawnee and Tecumseh and Mc-
Tatum Ryan, Shawnee Public School,
Third Place winner in the Tinker AFB
Art Contest Native American Heritage Day November 3, 2023.
Eva Grass, Shawnee Public School,
participant in the Tinker AFB Art Contest Native American Heritage Day
November 3, 2023.
loud Public Schools at Gordon Cooper
Vo-Tech in Shawnee.
At 6:00 pm, I attended the Putnam
City Indian Education Award Assembly.
Secretary Lana Butler also attended the
assembly.
• 24th - At 7:30 am, Justin and I attended the Stroud Public School Federal
Program Meeting.
• 24th, 25th, 26th - We worked on the
Oklahoma Step Grant Annual Reports
along with Karen Tucker, a CPA, TEDNA and Ashley Brokeshoulder, Project
Director for OK-Step Grant.
• 30th - Justin and I attended the Tinker
Air Force Base State of the Base Meeting
in Midwest
City. We are working
with TAFB with a partnership of careers
for our high school students.
MAY
• 1ST - I presented art awards at the
North Rock Creek Awards Assembly.
• 2nd - Dr. Todd Johnson from Washington State with OK-Step Grant and Tonia George, Support Staff and I, had an
on-site visit at Prague Public School with
Superintendent Kevin Engle and Bryna
Anderson, Title VI Coordinator.
I attended the Meeker Public School
Federal Program Meeting at 6:00 pm
• 3rd - Justin and I and Diane Ponkilla,
ACE Specialist, attended the North Rock
Creek Public School ESSA Consultation.
• 7th - Prague Public School ESSA
Consultation at the Sac and Fox Learning
Center.
Justin attended the Meeker Public
School Awards Assembly and handed
out Awards to the Senior High School
Blackhawk and Jim Thorpe scholarship
winners.
• 8th - Ripley Public School ESSA
Consultation at the Sac and Fox Learning Center. I attended the Grove Public
School Federal Program Meeting at 4:30
pm.
• 14th - Met with Title VI Coordinators
at Meeker Public School and Jim Thorpe
Academy in Shawnee. I attended Grove
Public School 8th Grade Awards Assembly to handed out Art Project Awards.
1:00 pm - Little Axe Public School
ESSA Consultation.
6:00 pm - Pleasant Grove in Shawnee
attended 8th Grade Graduation to hand
out an award.
• 15th - OK Step bi-weekly meeting.
• 16th - ACE (TEDNA) Meeting in
Oklahoma City.
• 17th -Sac and Fox Nation Victory
Day
The Sac and Fox Nation Education
Department would like to congratulate
ALL High School Seniors and College
and Kindergarten and 8th Grade Graduates!
Eco Roubidoux Eighth Grade Graduate at Pleasant Grove School.
l to r: Edwina Butler-Wolfe and Abria Hamilton-Youngbird, Grove Public
Schools, First Place in the Tinker Air Force Base winner Art Contest Native
American Day, November 3, 2023.
If you have any questions, please contact me at: 405-328-0402 cell number.
by Edwina Butler-Wolfe
Edwina Butler-Wolfe
Director of Education
L to R: Sophie Morris, Edwina Butler-Wolfe and Emma Fields, North Rock
Creek Students at Tinker Air Force Base for Native American Heritage Day,
November 3, 2023.
(All Photos Provided)
L to R: Eliza Lena and Oske Bemo, Meeker Public School. Oske is Second
Place Winner in the Tinker Air Force Base Native American Art Contest.
Page 5 - Sac and Fox News - June 2024
Letter to Tribal Members
May 20, 2024
Dear Tribal-Members,
Why is our tribe not making progress?
It is crucial to comprehend the structure
of our Nation. The Business-Committee
supervises 13 active boards, committees,
and commissions. These bodies consist
of 55 members appointed and reappointed by the Business-Committee.
Importantly, these appointed members
have questionable backgrounds, including, but not limited to:
• 93 Civil Cases (including-garnishment, financial-negligence, small-claims
<$10,000 and >$10,000 financial-indebtedness, forcible entry foreclosures)
• 8 Protective Orders
• 8 Criminal Misdemeanors (driving
intoxicated, assault, intoxication, bogus
checks, false-ID, possession of controlled substance, leaving the scene of
the accident.)
• 8 Criminal Felony (assault and battery, forgery, drugs, possession of firearm, bogus-checks of $500)
Three appointed individuals have no
public records available and, note that
the Business Committee is not immune
to civil-cases related to indebtedness.
Certain Tribal, Gaming, SFN Personnel Policies and Procedures, and Federal
laws prohibit individuals with specific
backgrounds from holding leadership
positions, yet they are. Gaming regulations specifically disqualify individuals
with particular histories from obtaining
licenses, yet they are. How can the appointment of an individual with a criminal background be justified in the best
interest of the Nation?
Our tribe has been infected by discriminatory decision-making from appointees
with poor ethical backgrounds. Tribal-Members and staff have been threatened with enforced actions to revoke
licenses, fines, and cease-and-desist orders. In some cases, the threats have been
acted-upon. The unjust actions come with
a legal expenses paid from gaming revenue, aka per-capita and program funds.
Business Committee Meeting
Minutes are
accessible on the Website
sacandfoxnation-nsn.gov
The poor decisions are supported by the
cooperation of the gaming commission
and Business Committee.
Regulations state the gaming commission is regulatory ONLY and NOT managerial, and the Business Committee is
to remain at arm’s length from the Gaming-commission. Yet, this is not what is
occurring.
The Business-Committee decided to
pay an individual $1 million to “get the
casinos in order.” However, despite receiving the payment, the individual did
NOT fulfill the intended task. How were
these dollars-funded?
Thus, the never-ending cycle of misguided leadership creates distrust in financial management and accountability.
The “you scratch my back, I’ll scratch
yours” mentality must change.
The initial step in revitalizing our
community involves acknowledging and
addressing these disruptions while modifying and adjusting to “HEAL” our Nation for current and future generations.
Respectfully,
Lavonda Youngman
Letter to
Editor
April 26, 2024
Letter to Editor:
I got out of prison Nov. 9, 2023 and,
now that I know what path drugs and alcohol lead me down, I’m ready to get off
this road and go a different route.
No more concrete streets (It was a
cold winter); No more - no water available; No more washing up in public park
restrooms; no more begging for food or
money.
Now, it’s time to be the real you to go
out and chase your dreams, catch them,
find them safe. I only get one life, and
I want to go back to school, Rio Salado
College.
I want to work at McDonald’s or wherever I can get a job. Most of all, I want
to spend time with my kids again. I want
to stay free.
Shaandiin Sekayumptewa
Hopi/Navajo/Sac and Fox Tribes
39-Year-Old Mom of 7 Kids
1 Grandbaby
Obituaries
Marvin Warren Thurman
Shawnee, Okla. resident Marvin Warren Thurman, 75, passed away Wednesday, May 8, 2024 in Shawnee.
Wake services were May 10, 2024 at
the Sac and Fox Community Building in
Stroud. Funeral Services were held May
11, 2024 at the Sac and Fox Community Building, with burial following at the
Sac and Fox Nation Cemetery.
Marvin was born on April 6, 1949 in
Pawnee, Oklahoma to Marshall Thurman and Lola (McClellan) Thurman. He
graduated from Shawnee High School
and attended O.S.U. Tech. in Okmulgee.
Marvin worked as a journeyman millwright most of his life.
He was a founding member of the
A.I.R.A.O. Region 8, a member of First
Indian Baptist Church, a member of the
Sac and Fox Nation, and was named Sac
and Fox Sr. Man of the Year in 2016. He
was an avid O.S.U. and OKC Thunder
fan. He enjoyed traveling, rodeo, attending pow-wow’s, and watching his children and grandchildren play sports.
He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Verona Thurman.
Survivors include 4 children: Marty
Thurman and wife Sophia, Angie Thurman-Goodfox and husband Arlen, Nick
Wahpepah and wife Candice, and Dustin
Whitford and wife Winter; grandchildren, Ryan Goodfox, Tara Goodfox,
Tyler Thurman, Tylyn Thurman, Tye
Thurman, Ben Wahpepah, Brandon Wahpepah, Ashley Ingram, Amanda Ingram,
Brooklyn Bear, Jonna Townsend, Trey
Lindsey, Taryn Lindsey, Taylor Lindsey,
family of the the late Thomas Morris,
Jr, and family of the late Merle Boyd;
great-grandchildren: Maya Goodfox and
Macy Good Fox; 1 brother, George Thurman; 1 sister, Marylin Thurman; nieces
and nephews: Kristen Thurman, Zac
Starr and wife Mariane (children Annisa and Jax), Shawn Thurman, Aliyah
Morris, Tristen Kaseca, Brooke Kaseca,
Oryan Thurman, Caius Thurman, Xander Thurman, Keilana Kaseca, and many
other family members and friends.
Marvin Warren Thurman
SAC AND FOX TAX COMMISSION
REVENUE
July 2023
Beer and Liquor...................................................................$427.69
Motor Vehicle...................................................................$8,523.39
Sales Tax........................................................................$17,566.73
Treasury.................................................................................$95.00
Oil and Gas.............................................................................$0.00
Gaming..........................................................................$200,173.82
TOTAL..............$226,786.63
RAP Department Application Forms
SAC AND FOX NATION
DRIVEWAY REPAIR PROGRAM
REVENUE ALLOCATION PLAN
GUIDELINES
PROGRAM FUNCTIONS:
To provide for the health and safety needs
of eligible tribal members with driveway repairs. Many tribal members live in rural areas
and have driveways which are inaccessible to
many emergency vehicles. It is important to the
health and safety of tribal members to ensure
that driveways are accessible and do not create
a danger to them or others rightfully entering
their property. The program is open to all tribal
members owning a home, which is their primary place of residence, on a first come basis; regardless of place of residency.
GUIDELINES:
1. Preference will be given to elders and handicap persons, based on individual health and
safety needs and the condition of the driveway,
which may impede emergency vehicles from
reaching them in an emergency.
2. Proof of ownership is required. Rental property will not be considered for this program.
3. Proof of residency is required. Rental property or secondary residences will not be considered for this program.
4. Applications for regular maintenance and upkeep will not be approved.
5. Applications received for paving an existing
gravel driveway that is functional and safe will
not be approved.
6. Applications for non-residential driveways
will not be approved.
7. An amount not to exceed Ten Thousand
Dollars ($10,000.00) in repairs will be made
to any one driveway, regardless of the number
of tribal members listed as owners. This is a
lifetime limit.
8. Applicants/Home Owner of a Sac and Fox
Nation traditional house (Mack, Ellis, McKosato & Massey) may re-apply once every ten (10)
years.
9. Applicants are required to submit: application, proof of ownership & residency plus
pictures of the driveway and three (3) bids for
the repairs on the contractors’ letterhead.
10. If claiming a physical handicap, applicant
may submit a letter from their physician.
11. Applicant/Home Owner is responsible for
maintaining driveway after repairs.
12. The Administrator of this program has the
sole discretion of approving or denying the
application and repairs based on qualifications,
emergencies and need.
(Approved by Sac and Fox Nation Business
Committee Regular Business Committee Meeting December 28, 2023)
Page 6 - Sac and Fox News - June 2024
SAUK LANGUAGE DEPARTMENT
PHILOSOPHY
Indians are born speaking our languages. For some of
us, they lie dormant within our bodies. They are looking
for a way out. God gave us these beautiful languages. All
of us hold them in a sacred manner within. There is no
such thing as an Indian person who cannot speak Indian.
Our language programs find these languages within
our bodies. They bring them out through our mouths and
deliver them to their rightful resting places within our
hearts.
June Scramble
June Comic
June 2024
Page 7 - Sac and Fox News - June 2024
Business Committee Meeting Minutes
Business Committee Meeting Minutes
(Continued on Page 12)
June Word Search
Page 8 - Sac and Fox News - June 2024
920963 S. Hwy. 99, Building A • Stroud, OK 74079 • (918) 968-1141 • FAX (918) 968-1142
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Assistant Cook – Human Services #2024-19 (Part-time, Stroud)
Executive Assistant (Gaming) #2023-43 (Shawnee)
Compliance Officer (Gaming)
Environmental Technician
Transportation Coordinator
Surveillance Observer (Gaming)
Resident Advisor(s) *NEW SALARIES*
Behavioral Health Licensed Therapist (BHHC, Stroud) #2023-37
Policy Analyst, #2024-05 (Stroud)
Capitol Security Officer #2024-11 (Stroud)
Temporary ARPA Realty Clerk, #2024-16 (Stroud)
Cook – Juvenile Detention Center #2024-21 (Stroud)
Shift Manager – Juvenile Detention Center #2024-22 (Stroud)
RAP Specialist I & II # 2024-28 (Stroud)
Cashier – Finance (Stroud) #2024-30
Outreach Specialist (Stroud) #2024-32
Realty Specialist II #2024-34 (Stroud)
Self-Governance Specialist #2024-35 (Stroud)
Meal Delivery Driver – Human Services Part-Time (#2024-39)
Housekeeper (JDC) #2024-41
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) #2024-042
Advocate II #2024-44
Registered Nurse (JDC) #2024-49
Operations Coordinator (JDC) #2024-50
Tribal Administrator, #2024-51
Environmental Director #2024-52
Accounts Payable Technician #2024-53
Payroll Technician #2024-54
Intake Specialist (Education – Temp 16 Weeks) #2024-55
John Carrington, HR Director
hrdirector@sacandfox.com
Activity Committee Announcement
NOTICE
A W-9 form is not needed for Per
Capita Payments unless you have a
name change, new address, you are
a newly-enrolled tribal member or, if
required, for RAP applications.
W-9 FORM MUST BE CUT ON DOTTED LINE BEFORE MAILING
^
Business Committee Meeting Minutes
are accessible on the Website
sacandfoxnation-nsn.gov
Sac and Fox
Nation Telephone
Extensions
Main Number:
918-968-3526
• Chief - 1008
• Second Chief - 1004
• Treasurer - 1006
• Secretary - 1007
• Committee Member - 1005
• BC Front Desk - 1009
• Tax - 1043-1045
• Accounting - 1030-1036
• Property and Procurement 1020-1039-1022
• Maintenance - 2062
• BHHC - 918-968-9531
• ICW - 1711
• Court - 2039
• Library - 2020-2021
• Language - 1075
• JUVI - 4000
• USDA - 2077 (WIC 2079)-20802081-2082
(Warehouse USDA 2089)
• Education - 2046
• IT - 2041
• Police - 2033
• Self-Governance - 1080
• Capitol Security - 1090
• Realty - 1052
• Enrollment - 1040-1041
• RAP - 2000 - 2001
• Social Services - 2010-2011
• OES - 2091-2092-2094
• Veterans - 1065
• Newspaper - 1060
• Tribal Administrator - 1010
• NAGPRA/Historic
Preservation - 1070
• ARPA - 1819
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SAC AND FOX NATION
920883 S. HIGHWAY 99 BLDG. “A”
STROUD, OKLAHOMA, 74079
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The Sac & Fox Nation Activity Committee is comprised of tribal member volunteers who have the desire to promote activities
within our tribe. The Activity Committee is open to all Sac &
Fox Nation tribal members as well as non-tribal members. The
Activity Committee will hold a regular meeting the first Tuesday of every month at 6:30 pm in the Cultural Center in Stroud,
OK. Meetings are open to the public. The Activity Committee
encourages membership, ideas, suggestions and/or concerns of
the organization and hosting events.
Page 9 - Sac and Fox News - June 2024
Camping Perimeters. Please see the aerial map provided of the designated
camping area. No campsites are allowed to be set up within the specifically
Jim Thorpe Awarded ‘Medal of Freedom’
(Continued From Page 1)
ican to win an Olympic gold medal. The
country’s original multi-sport superstar,
he went on to play professional football,
baseball, and basketball while breaking
down barriers on and off the field.
The awards were presented at the
White House on May 3, 2024. The following individuals were also awarded
the Presidential Medal of Freedom:
• Michael R. Bloomberg: Mayor Michael Bloomberg is an entrepreneur,
philanthropist, and three-term mayor.
He revolutionized the financial information industry and transformed New York
City’s education, environment, public
health, and the arts.
• Gregory J. Boyle: Father Greg Boyle
is a Jesuit Catholic priest who is the
founder and director of Homeboy Industries, the world’s largest gang-intervention and rehabilitation program. He has
helped thousands of Angelenos turn their
lives around.
• James E. Clyburn: Representative
Jim Clyburn is the former Assistant Democratic Leader and Majority Whip in the
United States House of Representatives.
Through three decades in the House,
Representative Clyburn has transformed
the lives of millions of Americans and
created a freer country.
• Elizabeth Dole: Senator Elizabeth
Dole has served her country as a trailblazing United States Senator, Secretary of Transportation, Secretary of Labor, and President of the American Red
Cross. She leads by example through her
Foundation’s support for military caregivers and their families.
• Phil Donahue: Phil Donahue is a
journalist and television pioneer who pioneered the daytime issue-oriented television talk show. Donahue was the first
daytime talk show to feature audience
participation and one of the most influential televisions programs of its time.
• Medgar Wiley Evers (posthumous):
Medgar Evers (d. 1963) fought for his
country in World War II and returned
home to lead the fight against segregation
in Mississippi. After he was murdered at
his home at age 37, his wife Myrlie continued the fight to seek justice and equality in his name.
• Al Gore: Al Gore is a former Vice
President, United States Senator, and
member of the House of Representatives.
After winning the popular vote, he accepted the outcome of a disputed presidential election for the sake of our unity.
He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize
jointly with the Intergovernmental Panel
on Climate Change for his bold action on
climate change.
• Clarence B. Jones: Clarence B. Jones
is a renowned civil rights activist and
lawyer who helped draft Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr’s “I Have a Dream” speech.
Jones was instrumental in preserving Dr.
King’s legacy and remains an outspoken
force against hate.
• John Forbes Kerry: Secretary John
Kerry is a former Secretary of State,
United States Senator, and the first Special Presidential Envoy for Climate.
His bravery in combat during the Vietnam War earned him the Silver Star and
Bronze Star, and history will remember
his public service career that has spanned
seven decades.
• Frank R. Lautenberg (posthumous):
Senator Frank Lautenberg (d. 2013) was
a five-term United States Senator and
New Jersey’s longest-serving Senator.
He is remembered for his critical work
on environmental protection and consumer safety across a number of fields.
• Kathleen Genevieve Ledecky: Katie Ledecky is the most decorated female
swimmer in history. An athletic prodigy,
she has won seven Olympic gold medals and twenty-one world championship
gold medals so far. She will continue to
compete for the Nation who watches her
in awe.
• Opal Lee: Opal Lee is an educator and activist known for her efforts to
make ‘Juneteenth’ a federally recognized
holiday. More than 150 years after that
day in Texas, she joined President Biden
to officially make Juneteenth a national
holiday in 2021.
• Ellen Ochoa: Ellen Ochoa is the first
Hispanic woman in space and the second
female Director of NASA’s renowned
Johnson Space Center. Dr. Ochoa has
flown in space four times, logged nearly
1,000 hours in orbit, and continues to inspire young generations of scientists.
• Nancy D’Alesandro Pelosi: Nancy
Pelosi served as the 52nd Speaker of the
House and has represented San Francisco in Congress for more than 36 years. A
staunch defender of democracy, she has
shaped legislative agendas and Democratic priorities for decades.
• Jane Rigby: Jane Rigby, an astronomer who grew up in Delaware, is the
chief scientist of the world’s most powerful telescope. A prolific researcher, Dr.
Rigby embodies the American spirit of
adventure and wonder.
• Teresa Romero: Teresa Romero is
the president of the United Farm Workers
and the first Latina to become president
of a national union in the United States.
She has secured key victories to improve
the lives of the workers who feed and
fuel our Nation.
• Judy Shepard: Judy Shepard is the
co-founder of the Matthew Shephard
Foundation, an organization created in
honor of her son who was murdered in
one of the nation’s most notorious anti-gay hate crimes. Her work has driven
tremendous progress in our fight to give
hate no safe harbor.
• Michelle Yeoh: Michelle Yeoh is
an actress known for her groundbreaking
work in a number of blockbusters over
four decades. Recently, she became the
first Asian to win the Academy Award for
Best Actress. Yeoh continues to shatter
stereotypes and enrich American culture.
designated RV Park Enterprise, past the west tree line, or past the southern
boundary.
New Campground Rules Listed
For Sac and Fox Nation Powwow
NEW CAMPGROUND RULES
by Interim Tribal Administrator
Jacklyn King
The Sac and Fox Nation annual powwow is right around the corner (July 1114) and to ensure that you will have an
enjoyable experience and plan accordingly, this article brings to your attention
some changes that promotes for the safety and well-being of tribal members, RV
park tenants, and guests. The following
rules will be enforced year-round, effective immediately, concerning the campground in Jim Thorpe Memorial Park.
Your cooperation in these matters is appreciated!
The Memorial Park and the RV Park
Enterprise are designated as the property
of the Sac and Fox Nation. All persons
utilizing this location are subject to the
laws and regulations of the Sac and Fox
Nation while on the property.
No residency. The family campsites
within the campground of the Jim Thorpe Memorial Park are not to be used
and considered a permanent residence
for tribal members or non-tribal members. Occupying a vehicle or structure
on Sac and Fox Nation trust land within the Campground/RV Park, without
authorization or permit, is in violation
of trespass and health and safety laws
(Sac and Fox Code: Title 10, Chapter 1.
Criminal Trespass and Chapter 5. Public
Nuisance).
While we welcome families to enjoy
the campground, please check in with
Capital Security if your stay is for an extended, but limited period. There is no
need to notify Security for extended stays
surrounding the annual event.
Camping Perimeters. Please see the
aerial map provided of the designated
camping area. No campsites are allowed
to be set up within the specifically designated RV Park Enterprise, past the west
tree line, or past the southern boundary.
No recreational vehicles (RV) allowed
in campgrounds. RV’s are prohibited
within the campsite areas. Fifth-wheels,
travel trailers, toy haulers, pop-up trailers, teardrop trailers, and truck campers
will not be allowed as we do not have
adequate space or electrical capacity to
accommodate any RV’s.
Please contact the Nation’s Finance
Department to rent an RV pad. Spaces are limited, and are first come, first
served. No reservations are accepted.
Only payment in-full for rental will guarantee a space, if available.
No loaning of Nation’s property. Unfortunately, we will no longer loan the
Nation’s tables and benches for use at
family campsites. They are not always
returned, and the Nation absorbs the replacement costs.
One-way travel enforcement around
campground. The roadway that leads
around the camps and arena is a single-lane road. To avoid encountering
oncoming vehicles and help control the
high flow of traffic during this event,
we are incorporating one-way travel in
a clockwise direction. Signage will be
posted.
CAMPSITE CLEAN UP DAYS
June 15-16 & 29-30
This is an opportunity to clean your
campsite area. Leave your bagged trash
and debris by the roadside and the Sac
and Fox Nation Maintenance Department will properly dispose of it.
Page 10 - Sac and Fox News - June 2024
June 2024
SAC AND FOX NATION
FOOD DISTRIBUTION
PROGRAM
STROUD WAREHOUSE
918-968-3030 • 1-800-256-3398
SHAWNEE OFFICE
405-395-0063 • 1-886-622-2310
ALL FOOD DISTRIBUTIONS
ARE BY APPOINTMENT ONLY! THANK YOU!!
HOURS (Monday-Friday)
Certification
8 am - 5 pm
Distribution
8 am - 3 pm
Store AM Inventory 8 am - 8:30 am
Store PM Inventory 3 pm - 5 pm
HOME DELIVERIES ARE FOR
HOMEBOUND AND/OR DISABLED
ELDERS. CALL OUR
STROUD OFFICE
TO SEE IF YOU QUALIFY.
This institution is
an equal opportunity provider.
Business Committee Meeting Minutes
are accessible on the Website
sacandfoxnation-nsn.gov
Kids and Grandkids
Are G-R-E-A-T!!
We want to feature the scholastic, academic and
athletic awards or achievements of your child or
grandchild of the Sac and Fox Nation!
Send all pertinent information, such as name of
student, town, school and grade attending,
explanation of award or achievement, and names of
parents and/or grandparents, along with a current
photo of the student to:
newspaper@sacandfoxnation-nsn.gov
or: Sac and Fox News, 920963 S. Hwy. 99
Stroud, OK 74079
If at least 1 in your household
has a CDIB, you reside within
our 5 tribe Service Area, & you
meet USDA Income Guidelines…
YOU MAY QUALIFY!!!
CALL TODAY!!! 1-800-256-3398
This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
Page 11 - Sac and Fox News - June 2024
36th ‘Sovereignty Symposium’ Set for June 11-12 in OKC
The Sovereignty Symposium is an
international event held for the past 36
years in Oklahoma to provide a forum in
which ideas concerning common legal
issues among those in the legal professions, federal and state officials, and the
state’s Native American tribes can be exchanged in a scholarly, non-adversarial
environment.
It was originally established by the
Oklahoma Supreme Court and now
transferred fully to Oklahoma City University and our School of Law.
The move to OCU came about because
of the institution’s long history within its
School of Law of teaching and working
in Oklahoma’s Native American tribal
community. OCU law houses the American Indian Law and Sovereignty Center as well as the American Indian Wills
Clinic.
“We are also currently working with
many tribes on a new sovereignty institute as well as language revitalization efforts and technology in schools, both in
conjunction with Apple,” said a spokesperson.
This year’s symposium will take place
June 11-12, 2024, at the Skirvin Hilton
Hotel in downtown Oklahoma City. Titled “A New Beginning,” the keynote
speaker will be Geoffrey Standing Bear,
principal chief of the Osage Nation.
“We also are looking forward to Southern Nation and their featured guest, the
Osage Tribal Singers, who performed at
the Oscars, playing at this year’s Opening Ceremony on Tuesday, June 11th at
1:15pm,” the spokesperson added. For
more information or to register to attend,
please go to thesovereigntysymposium.
com.
Page 12 - Sac and Fox News - June 2024
Business Committee Meeting Minutes
(Continued From Page 7)
The annual open house for the Sac and Fox National Public Library and Cultural Center was well-attended April 23. Many in attendance enjoyed a baked
potato bar lunch set up in the library, with seating also available in the Cultural
Center.
(Photo by Mike Brown)
Business Committee Meeting Minutes
Business Committee Meeting Minutes
NOTICE TO VETERANS!
Men & Women, especially WWI, WWII & Korean War
The Sac and Fox National Public Library
is asking for your DD 214s for their records and
MEMORIAL MONUMENT PURPOSES!
The Veterans are also requesting photos of tribal members in
uniform or on military or active duty.
These will be reviewed and may be selected to be put on one
of the monuments (WWI, WWII, Korean or Vietnam). A fifth
monument will be designated with the appropriate name for the
Peace Keeping Initiative Years
(Iraq, Kuwait, Bosnia, Desert Storm and Desert Shield)
Contact: Sac and Fox National Public Library
918-968-3526
14.
Robert E. Williamson motion to approve the donation of a popcorn popper from the Auxiliary
Board to the Housing Authority of the Sac and Fox Nation. Audrey Rose Lee-2nd. VOTE: Carla-Yes,
Robert-Yes, Randle-Yes, Audrey-Yes, Lana-Yes. Motion carried.
Business Committee Meeting Minutes
This is a copy of a public record, reproduced as it was published. It is not legal advice, and it may not be the version a court would rely on. Check the official source before you cite it.